The NFL All-Bust Team

I know we're getting a little carried away with this list stuff, but since we have the best undrafted team and best draft steals squad finished, the Corner thought, 'Why not create the all-time NFL bust team?'

The guys who came out of the draft as sure things and for some reason never made the transition from college to the National Football League. This is the team of unrealized potential, some because of injuries, some from bad habits and some just weren't very good.

Now this is not a complete team like the other lists. Most centers and guards don't have first round grades so it's hard to put them down as a bust. The same goes with safeties. Those positions are not part of this team.

If you think we left someone off or if you just want to put in your two cents worth, feel free to comment below.

Carson's Corner NFL All-Bust Team

Offense

QB: Ryan Leaf - Hard to believe there was once a debate about who was the better quarterback coming out, him or Manning.
QB: Tim Couch - Couldn't leave out the top overall pick in the 1999 draft. His stay in the league almost as short as Leafs
RB: Blair Thomas - Second overall pick was mediocre at best.
RB: KiJana Carter - The curse of high first round draft picks at Penn State (D.J. Dozier, Thomas and Curtis Enis) was alive and well with Carter.
RB: Lawrence Phillips - Sixth overall pick had a cup of coffee in the NFL.
WR: Desmond Howard - Never materialized into the player many thought after winning the Heisman. Spent his career as a return specialist.
WR: David Verser - Fifth overall pick by the Bengals in 1981 draft. Barely had time to sip the Gatorade.
WR: Clyde Duncan - First round pick in 1984 by the Cardinals. Enough said the better.
TE: Derek Brown - Top 20 pick by the Giants in 1992. Caught 11 passes in three years.
OL: Tony Mandarich - workout wonder SI called the greatest offensive lineman ever. Too bad it didn't translate that way on the field.
OL: Brian Jozwiak - Seventh overall pick in 1986 draft. Who the hell is he?
P/K: Russell Erxleben - One of only four punters/kickers to be drafted in the first round. He shouldn't have been.

Defense

DE: Eric Curry - Bulldozer in college at Alabama. Didn't do much in NFL.
DE: Keith McCants - Another Bama great who underachieved in the pros.
DT: Steve Emtman - No. 1 overall pick in 1992. Injuries destroyed his career.
DT: Dan Wilkinson - Big Daddy has had a long, but inconsistent career in the pros. Has never lived up to being top overall choice in 1994 draft.
MLB: Brian Bosworth - Did win Rookie of the Year in 1987, but injuries limited him to just three seasons.
MLB: Tom Cousineau - First overall in 1979. Never materialized into the star people thought he would.
OLB: Aundray Bruce - No. 1 overall in 1988 spent his NFL career has a backup.
OLB: Trev Alberts - Fifth overall pick in 1994 played only three seasons because of injuries.
OLB: Quentin Coryatt - Second overall pick after Emtman who fizzled out after five mediocre years.
CB: Bruce Pickens - Third overall pick by Atlanta in 1991. Played four seasons with a whopping two career interceptions.
CB: Ricky Dixon - Fifth overall pick by the Bengals in 1988. Played six seasons with zero interceptions and one fumble recovery.

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NFL All-Time Draft Steals Team

After the Corner compiled its all-time undrafted team, we got to thinking about putting together a list for the all-time draft day steals. Players who were drafted on the second day (fourth round or later) and wound up being superstars.

So the Corner (which is a one man operation by the way) got to work leafing through encyclopedia's, researching the Internet and looking at my own draft day lists from the past to come up with the team you'll read below. As always, if you disagree or think we left somebody deserving off the list, send us a comment.

Carson's Corner NFL All-Time Draft Steals Team

Offense

QB: Tom Brady, sixth round - Has led the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in five years. Johnny Unitas and Bart Starr, fifth and seventh round picks respectively, are a close second.
RB: Terrell Davis, sixth round - Super Bowl MVP who owns two rings. One of only five backs to rush for 2,000 yards in a season. Curtis Martin is not on the list because he was a first day selection (third round).
FB: Larry Centers, fifth round - Has more career receptions (827) than any back in NFL history.
WR: Mark Clayton, 12th round - Dan Marino's favorite target. He had five 1,000 yard seasons and finished with 582 receptions in 11 seasons.
WR: Keenan McCardell, 12th round - Has over 800 receptions and over 10,000 yards in his 15-year career. Andre Reed belongs here as well, but since he was fourth rounder, McCardell wins out.
TE: Shannon Sharpe, seventh round - Only the greatest tight end in NFL history. Holds career marks for a TE in receptions (815), yards (10,060) and TDs (62).
C: Tom Nalen, seventh round - 12-year veteran who owns two Super Bowl rings. Five-time Pro Bowl selection.
G: Jesse Sapolu, 11th round - Owns four Super Bowl rings in 15-year career. Two Pro Bowl appearances.
G: Mark Schlereth, 10th round - Was a member of three Super Bowl winners in his 12-year career.
T: Jon Runyan, fourth round - Pro Bowl right tackle who's played in 10 NFL seasons.
T: Ephraim Salaam, seventh round - Eight year starter with the Atlanta Falcons.
K: Matt Stover, 12th round - Has played 15 seasons in the league. Has scored over 1,300 points and made 80 percent of his kicks. Morten Andersen was drafted in the fourth round, but that's high for a kicker, so Stover won out.

Defense

DE: Deacon Jones, 14th round - Quite possibly the greatest end to ever play the game and he's stolen in the 14th round by the Rams. Awesome pick! Enshrined in Canton.
DE: Richard Dent, eighth round - MVP of Super Bowl XX. His 137.5 sacks are fifth best in NFL history.
DT: La'Roi Glover, fifth round - Perennial pro bowler since he came into the league in 1996.
DT: Mike Lodish, 10th round - Only player in NFL history to appear in six Super Bowls.
MLB: Zach Thomas, fifth round - Considered too small. Has played in five Pro Bowls and is considered one of the best middle backers ever.
LB: Kevin Greene, fifth round - Played DE as well. His 160 career sacks are the best ever by a linebacker and third all-time.
LB: Karl Mecklenberg, 12th round - Switched from DE to LB and proceeded to be selected to six Pro Bowls. His 79 sacks are second in Denver history.
FS: Brock Marion, seventh round - Three-time All-Pro with 31 career interceptions.
SS: Rodney Harrison, fifth round - Consider by many to be one of the best strong safeties to ever play. Selected to the Pro Bowl three times. His 27.5 sacks are the most ever by a defensive back.
CB: Tyrone Braxton, 12th round - Played 13 seasons in the NFL and won back-to-back Super Bowls with the Broncos.
CB: Merton Hanks, fifth round - Didn't have blazing speed, but had excellent instincts and hands. Played 11 years.
P: Reggie Roby, sixth round - The late punter had a booming leg and played 16 seasons in the NFL. Three-time pro bowler.

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NFL All-Time Undrafted Team

Evaluating players is not an exact science. Regardless of the constant study, the workout numbers and the hours of game film scouts and coaches watch, sometimes great players slip through the cracks and aren't drafted.

For every Manning, Sanders and Dickerson there's a Couch, McCown and Mandarich. That's the nature of player evaluation - no matter how sure someone is about a player, you just never know until it's time for them to step on the field.

This got me thinking about all the great players who were never drafted and went on to have highly successful careers. So I decided to do some research and the results were shocking to say the least.

Six, count 'em six, are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and more will be joining them soon. I decided to compile this research into my very own NFL All-Time Undrafted Team. This is just one individuals opinion, if you feel different, comment below with your choices.

Carson's Corner NFL All-Time Undrafted Team

Offense

QB: Warren Moon - Fourth on all-time passing list. Nine Pro Bowls. Hall of Fame.
RB: Priest Holmes - Has rushed for 8,035 yards and 86 TDs. Four Pro- Bowls.
FB: Kimble Anders - Went to three Pro Bowls, finished with 369 catches.
WR: Rod Smith - Headed for Canton. 797 catches, 10,877 yards and 65 TDs.
WR: Wayne Chrebet - Second in Jets history with 588 receptions.
TE: Antonio Gates - Former hoops player who has 194 catches, 2,454 yards and 25 TDs in just three years.
C: Jim Langer - Hall of Fame. Played in three Super Bowls and six Pro Bowls. Part of undefeated 1972 team.
G: Larry Little - Teamed with Langer for Dolphins. Played in five Pro Bowls. Hall of Fame.
G: Mark Tuinei - The late Cowboy guard played 15 solid seasons.
T: Joe Jacoby - One of the famed Hogs. Played in four Pro Bowls.
T: James Williams - Switched from defense and started nine seasons for Chicago.
K: Adam Vinatieri - Mr. Clutch. Kicked game-winning field goal in two Super Bowls.

Defense

DE: Coy Bacon - Came from semi-pro league and had great career. Played in three Pro Bowls.
DE: Rich Jackson - 4x All-Pro with Denver Broncos.
DT: John Randle - Future hall-of-famer who played in seven Pro Bowls and collected 136.5 sacks, the most ever by a tackle.
DT: Keith Willis - Fourth all-time in Steelers history with 59 sacks.
MLB: Antonio Pierce - Young guy only getting better. Over 100 tackles last two seasons.
LB: Jessie Tuggle - Undersized backer who played in five Pro Bowls. Holds the NFL record for career tackles with 1,830.
LB: Sam Mills - Another undersized linebacker with a huge heart. Five Pro-Bowl appearances and over 1,300 career tackles. Mills died of cancer in 2005.
FS: Willie Wood - 10x All-Pro with 48 career picks. Played on five championship teams. Hall of Fame.
SS: Donnie Shell - 5x All-Pro, Four Super Bowl rings and 51 career interceptions, the most in history by a strong safety.
CB: Willie Brown - 54 career picks for the Hall of Fame inductee. Seven interceptions in the playoffs with three going for scores.
CB: Dick 'Night Train' Lane - Seven time All-Pro with 68 career interceptions, third most in NFL history. Holds single-season record with 14 picks in 1952. Hall of Fame.
P: Sean Landeta - Elected to two Pro Bowls. Played 22 years in the NFL.

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McNair Dealt to Ravens

The speculation has become reality. As soon as Steve McNair passes a physical, he will be traded to the Baltimore Ravens for a reported fourth-round draft pick in 2007. The pick could be a third rounder depending on playing time and performance issues.

The Tennessee Titans released a statement Wednesday talking about McNair's departure. "We have granted permission to Baltimore to give Steve McNair a physical, which we expect to take place in the next 24 hours," the Titans said in the statement. "Upon passing a physical, final trade terms will be agreed upon."

Thus ends the tenure of McNair in Tennessee - the face of the Titans franchise for 10 years. And what an inglorious ending it was.

McNair played hurt, played hard and gave it his all in every game. He led the Titans to their only Super Bowl berth in 1999 and was the unquestioned leader of the franchise. How was he rewarded? By being banned from the practice facility during the off season. McNair filed a grievance and won, but the Titans responded by issuing a statement that McNair couldn't practice or workout until he passed a physical.

That treatment, plus salary cap issues (McNair had a $23 million dollar cap number), spelled the end for the Alcorn State product. No one is happier than Brian Billick and the Baltimore Ravens, who were after him since April.

During the second day of the NFL draft in April, the Titans gave Bus Cook, NcNair's agent, permission to talk to the Ravens about a new contract. Cook worked out a deal that gave him an $11 million signing bonus and a $1 million base salary. That was more than the $9 million he was scheduled to make in base salary for the Ravens in 2006.

The three-time pro bowl selection could be the missing piece in the Raven puzzle. Long known for its defense, which is still solid even with age finally hitting Ray Lewis, Baltimore may finally have the offense it needs to contend for the Super Bowl once again.

With Lewis, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs and Chris McAlister manning the defense, a solid running game with a healthy Jamal Lewis and newly acquired Mike Anderson, a receiving corps on the rise with Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton and a solid kicking game (Matt Stover) - the only question mark was at quarterback.

Kyle Boller has not lived up to his first-round status, but did show marked improvement toward the end of the year. Having McNair on board could be the best thing for Boller. The young guy had to start right away and didn't get a chance to learn and develop slowly. McNair can show Boller what it takes to be a top-flight signal caller in the NFL.

If he can stay healthy, look for 'Air McNair' to put up big numbers in 2006. He has the personnel around him to make the Ravens a scary team. The main problem is their division has the world champion Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals (AFC North champs) in it.

Regardless, McNair is a proven winner and leader and with a solid supporting cast behind, the Baltimore Ravens could emerge as the team to beat in the AFC.

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Chrebet Retires After 11 Seasons

After 11-seasons with the New York Jets, wide receiver Wayne Chrebet called it a career after overcoming many obstacles on his path to be a football player in the NFL. In the end, it was too many concussions (three in as many years and possibly six for his career) that did him in.

"I'm thankful to everybody who was with me for the ride," said the 32-year-old Chrebet, who paused several times to compose himself at his press conference. "I'm just overwhelmed by the support I've received over the years and especially on days like this."

Chrebet was the poster boy for underachievers. The 5-10, 188-pound undrafted wideout from Hofstra wasn't supposed to have a career in the National Football League. He signed with the Jets and quickly became a clutch receiver in camp. He eventually started all 16 games as a rookie.

"You can't imagine how it feels to be me right now," Chrebet said. "I always told people I believed I could do this and certainly my first day here, a 70-year-old security guard didn't let me into practice. I could either laugh it off and go on my journey or take it as a sign it wasn't going to happen. I didn't take that sign. I believed in myself."

He is second on the all-time team career receptions list with 580 and third with 7,365 yards. His 41 career touchdowns are eighth in Jets history. One stat that proves how clutch he was is that 379 of his catches went for first downs.

"His story is that of a long shot, a consummate overachiever," team owner Woody Johnson said. "Wayne's trajectory of success represents everything that is great about this sport."

He wasn't big. He didn't have blazing speed, but Chrebet had something that scouts can't measure with their stopwatches and tape measures - he had heart. It was sheer guts, determination and persistence that made Chrebet the player he turned out to be.

His undefeatable spirit and rock-solid work ethic is the blueprint and inspiration for a new generation of players who may not have all the intangibles, but have the fire of desire inside them to make it in the NFL. Chrebet is the model - the standard bearer - the proof that it can be done.

"He inspired me every day," running back Curtis Martin said. "I loved the way he played and how he never backed down from anything. He was an incredible teammate. He was a warrior, and I always felt you'd have to kill him to get the upper hand on him. If every player in the NFL had as much heart and desire as he had, football would be illegal."

That in a nutshell is what made Chrebet so special. He was tough, hard-nosed, competitive and fun to watch. Chrebet was a great player, a class act and all that's good about the NFL.

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Martz Will Make Detroit Offense Better

Like him or not, Mike Martz is an offensive genius. He proved that with the St. Louis Rams when he was at the controls of an offense that ranked number one in the NFL from 1999-2001.

The Rams offense scored over 500 points and gained over 7,000 yards for three straight seasons. Something that was never done before and may never be again.

That's the reason why new Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli wooed Martz to the Motor City. Even after he turned down the offer originally, Marinelli kept persuading until Martz gave in and accepted the job as offensive coordinator.

He was needed big time.

The Lions offense hasn't fulfilled the expectations of fans or management the last three years. GM Matt Millen drafted three wide receivers (Charles Rogers, Roy Williams and Mike Williams) in the first round in three of the last four drafts. They have underachieved in a big way and, fair or not, Millen's name is hated in the Motor City because of it.

Joey Harrington, the second overall pick in 2002, never panned out and is now in Miami. RB Kevin Jones, who gained 1,133 yards as a rookie in 2004, fell off the pace big time last year with only 664 yards on the ground.

Martz is inheriting a dysfunctional offense and that's exactly the way he likes it. When he became offensive boss of the Rams in 1999, he took the reins of an offense that ranked 22nd in the league and took them to first in one season.

He made his presence felt immediately at Detroit's mini-camp and when he finally addressed the media for the first time as a Lion on Thursday. He said that some of the players ''were grossly out of shape."

Martz did say that they had a long way to go, but that strides are being made. "We teach all the details, then we start putting it together," Martz said. "Once they learn the details, then you start mixing and matching, then it becomes a lot of fun. But we're a long ways away from that."

As erratic, unpredictable and maddening as Martz is as a head coach, he is just as awe-inspiring and amazing as an offensive coordinator. The 'Greatest Show on Turf' days with the Rams, especially the 1999 and 2001 Super Bowl years, proved beyond a shadow of a doubt his ability to call plays and creating intricate game plans.

His knack for developing quarterbacks is another strength that will help the Lions tremendously. And with Jon Kitna and Josh McCown coming in to replace Harrington and Jeff Garcia, Millen, Marinelli and company are looking for that Martz magic to come through once again.

The list of quarterbacks he has turned into solid NFL players is impressive: Jake Plummer, Trent Green, Kurt Warner and Marc Bulger.

He coached Plummer at Arizona State, Green in Washington and Warner and Bulger in St. Louis. Everyone knows Warner's Cinderella story, going from grocery bagger to NFL and Super Bowl MVP. Kitna and McCown are veterans with tons of experience, so don't be surprised if one of them (most likely Kitna) has a big year in 2006.

He will demand discipline and effort, qualities the Lions desperately need on the offensive side of the ball. He may not be the best liked coach by his players, but he is a successful one and in the end, that's all that matters to the fans and the city.

One thing is certain - no matter what Detroit's record is - defenses will be in fear of the Lion offense in 2006. And the reason for that is Mike Martz.

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NFL Legend Lends Helping Hand

Former Green Bay Packers legendary guard Jerry Kramer was a beast on the football field. His dominating presence was one key factor in Vince Lombardi and his squads dominance of the NFL in the sixties.

During the time Kramer played in Green Bay from 1958-68, the Pack won five NFL championships, including Super Bowls I and II. Kramer was a leader, a solid teammate and a winner. He was a five-time all-pro and named to the all-NFL 50th anniversary team in 1970.

Now the 70-year old Kramer is still leading and winning. Only his goal now is not to win championships - it's to help retired players in financial trouble.

How can any NFL player be in dire straights? We'll the big money era in professional football didn't begin until the eighties. The salaries really went sky high when the free agency era began in 1993. These millionaires today should be set for life. Back then the money wasn't so great.

Kramer made a whopping $8,000 his first year in the league. When he made all-pro in 1960, his earnings were $9,000 a year! The most he made in one season in the NFL was $27,000 during Green Bay's Super Bowl heyday.

The players from his era were allowed to start collecting a pension when they turned 45, but the payout dropped dramatically when they turned 62 and could collect Social Security. For example, Kramer's pension was $452 dollars a month until he turned 62, when it fell to $158. As a matter fact, players who retired before 1959, aren't even on the NFL Pension Plan.

In an effort to do something about the problem, the Packer great recently sold a replica of his Super Bowl I championship ring for $19,000. All the proceeds went to help older players.

"I have always felt great concern and frustration regarding the condition of some of the retired players who helped build the league," Kramer said when he announced he was putting the ring up for auction. " I won't see a dime of that."

Kramer plans on having more auctions to raise funds and is setting up a charitable trust that will distribute money to needy players.

Kramer has answered the call once again and is leading the way. Just like he did for Paul Hornung and Jim Taylor on the Packer Sweep. Let's hope other former and current players will lend a hand and help out their comrades in need. These men who played key roles in making the game what it is today.

For some unknown reason, Jerry Kramer is not in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Despite this miscarriage of justice, number 64 has proven once and for all, he is a hall of famer - on and off the field.

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Carson's Corner Podcast - NFL News

This week the Corner podcast takes a look at Ricky Williams and Onterrio Smith - two NFL backs with drug histories trying to resurrect their careers in the CFL. Neither have to worry about drug testing from the CFL (the league doesn't test), but a career-ending injury on the hard Canadian surfaces is a concern.

Also, Paul Tagliabue wants to expand the NFL into global markets by playing two regular season games outside of the United States starting in 2008. Is it a good idea? Listen to the podcast and find out what the Corner thinks.

Download mp3 here.

"Ironhead" Dead at 39

Many forget that there was a bus in Pittsburgh long before Jerome Bettis arrived in 1996. A 6-0, 260-pound bus made of iron who would obliterate would-be tacklers and make defensive coordinators tremble.

Craig "Ironhead' Heyward was making a name for himself at the University of Pittsburgh before going on to an 11-year NFL career. Heyward retired in 1998 after being diagnosed with a recurring brain tumor.

It was that tumor that finally stopped "Ironhead," who died Saturday at the all-too young age of 39.

Nicknamed "Ironhead" for his battering running style, Heyward finished his collegiate career as Pitt's third all-time leading rusher with 3,086 yards (behind Tony Dorsett and Curtis Martin). An unconventionally sized tailback at 6-feet, 260 pounds, he rushed for 1,791 yards in 1987 to earn consensus All-America honors and finish fifth in the Heisman Trophy balloting.

Heyward's 1987 rushing total is second in Pitt annals only to Dorsett's 2,150-yard season in 1976. Heyward joined Dorsett as the only Pitt backs to rush for 100 yards or more 12 times in a single season.

Following the '87 campaign, Heyward elected to forego his final season of eligibility and turn professional. In the 1988 NFL Draft he was selected in the first round by the New Orleans Saints with the 24th overall pick.

Heyward went on to play 11 seasons in the NFL, including five with New Orleans (1988-92) and also had stints with Chicago (1993), Atlanta (1994-96), St. Louis (1997) and Indianapolis (1998). His best season as a professional was in 1995 when he was selected for the Pro Bowl after rushing for 1,083 yards. His 4.59-yard rushing average ranked fourth in the NFL that year. He also collected 177 catches for 1,559 yards and four touchdowns in his career.

Despite his massive frame, Heyward was a beloved teammate, a jokester and one of the most respected and liked players in the NFL. Even after the tumor, known as a chordoma, caused him to have a stroke a couple of years ago, he remained upbeat. Even after the chordoma wrapped itself around the base of his brain like an Anaconda in its death squeeze - it did not defeat his spirit.

Former teammate Bobby Hebert recently told ESPN.com that despite his serious illness, "The one thing he's still got and that hasn't changed a bit is that devilish sense of humor of his. Hopefully, that will keep him going for a while." Unfortunately, it didn't. Heyward succumbed two weeks later.

I for one refuse to remember Heyward as the guy who lost his battle with cancer. I'll remember him as the battering-ram running back with an exceptional smile who brought happiness to the fans and players alike.

Rest in peace "Ironhead." We'll miss you.

Interesting Personnel Moves From Bucs, Chiefs

It never fails. After the first wave of free agency and the draft ends, there is always interesting signings of older veterans in the second wave of free agency that potentially could make a big difference in a teams playoff chances.

This year is no exception. Recently the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed former all-pro wide receiver David Boston and the Kansas City Chiefs are close to working out a deal to pick up former all-pro tackle Kyle Turley, who was out of football last season.

I know what you may be thinking? So what! These guys are no longer serviceable and it isn't that big of a deal. Not so fast my friend.

Boston, who has been dogged by steroid accusations for most of his career, has only played in five games in the past two seasons because of a knee injury. But Bucs head coach Jon Gruden said he looked sharp in his tryout/workout, so he was signed almost immediately.

If and I know it's a big if, Boston can stay healthy - Tampa Bay has hit the jackpot. When 100 percent, Boston is one of the best receivers in the NFL. Just look at his career stats.

The 6-2, 228-pound Ohio State product was drafted in the first round in1999 by the Arizona Cardinals. He caught 40 passes his rookie season and then had 71 receptions in 2000 and 98-1,588 in 2001, which earned him a spot in the pro bowl.

The injury bug hit him in 2002 and Boston finished with 32 receptions that season. He signed with the Chargers in 2003 and bounced back for a 70 catch, seven touchdown season. Steroid allegations and personal problems dogged him in San Diego and he was released after one season. After that came two injury-filled season with the Dolphins that produced five receptions.

In four healthy seasons, Boston's numbers are impressive, 279 catches for 4,107 yards, 24 touchdowns and a 14.7 average. If he can keep his head on straight, stay healthy and get close to the form he used to have, the Bucs got a steal. Gruden already has Joey Galloway and impressive young wideout Michael Clayton. What they need is a solid number three and Boston could be the guy.

Turley, one of the best right tackles in the game during his prime, will be trying to latch on to an NFL team in a new position - tight end. Chronic back problems have forced him to drop weight. He is now listed at 262 pounds and has been working out as a tight end.

Kansas City coach Herman Edwards likes the idea of having a former all-pro right tackle being a blocking tight end for Larry Johnson and Priest Holmes, if he returns. Turley was a sixth round draft pick by the Saints in 1998 and proceeded to become entrenched at right tackle for the next five years, missing only one game in that span.

He signed a free agent deal in 2003 with the Rams and after a solid season that saw St. Louis make the playoffs, things changed drastically.

The back injury caused him to miss all of the 2004 season and a falling out with then Rams head coach Mike Martz (Turley reportedly threatened to do bodily harm to Mad Mike), sealed his fate in St. Louis. He was released after the season and was out of football last year.

The situation is very similar to Boston's. If his back holds up, KC could have a solid blocking tight end that could keep Tony Gonzalez fresh. If Turley can grow again and regain old form - then Edwards has a solid right tackle on his roster.

Sometimes the biggest moves in the offseason are the signings of veterans like these. Signings that go practically unnoticed. For some franchises it can mean the difference between a 6-10 record or a 10-6 one.

And while the Boston signing and the potential Turley signing are the most intriguing so far, it isn't over by a long shot. More veterans will be released as teams scramble to get under the cap and sign their draft picks. It's during this time of the year that playoffs teams are made. That's what makes it so worthwhile to watch the wire.

The fun is just beginning.

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NFL Owners Conclude Meetings

The NFL owners announced an August 18 date to decide on a new commissioner to replace the retiring Paul Tagliabue.

An eight-man committee headed by Dan Rooney (Steelers), Jerry Jones (Cowboys), Jerry Richardson (Panthers) and Al Davis (Raiders) will trim a pre-determined list down to 3-5 individuals and the 32 NFL owners will vote.

Leading candidates for the job include Roger Goodell, NFL Chief Operating Officer; Rich McKay, Atlanta Falcons GM; Dick Cass, Baltimore Ravens president and Michael Powell, son of former Secretary of State Colin Powell and former chairman of the FCC.

They appear to be the front runners, but more names will be added and a surprise could come forth. The NFL will and should take its time in selecting a new commissioner. The league has been blessed with two of the greatest leaders that any sport has ever had in Pete Rozelle and Tagliabue.

Because of them, the National Football League has grown into a multi-billion dollar juggernaut and surpassed baseball years ago as the nations favorite sport. Heck, most teams in the league can draw 40-50,000 for a preseason game! The individual chosen will have gigantic shoes to fill.

In other news from the meetings, as expected the league said no to Reggie Bush getting his number changed. He wanted to wear his number five from college, but the NFL has a rule that running backs wear 20-49. Five is reserved for quarterbacks and kickers.

The league started the numbers policy back in 1973 and haven't deviated from it except last year when receivers were given permission to wear numbers in the teens. The change was made because of all the tight ends and receivers that make NFL rosters now. Most franchises were running out of numbers in the eighties.

The NFL is a league of tradition and I agree with them. Bush knew what the league rules were and no matter how talented he is, he is not bigger then the game. Agree or disagree, those are the rules of the NFL and players have to abide by them.

Finally, the owners took one step forward in their determination to have a franchise in L.A. as soon as possible.

The NFL will give $10 million dollars, $5 million each to Los Angeles and Anaheim (the two front-runners for a team in the L.A. area) to use towards looking into refurbishing an existing stadium or to look for locations to build a new one.

The owners have stated emphatically that they don't want an expansion franchise, because they would have to create a 34th team as well for scheduling purposes. The league really favors the refurbishing of the L.A. Coliseum.

The NFL knows that to build a new stadium in the Los Angeles area will run about $600-850 million (chump change!) and the Coliseum is financially better for a new owner, the city and the league to get a team in right away. After the franchise is established in the area and revenues are flowing, then and only then, get to work on a new stadium.

Look for the San Diego Chargers or the New Orleans Saints to be the team that will land in L.A. The NFL would love for the Chargers to go. The franchise started in Los Angeles back in 1960 as a member of the old AFL.

The league wants to keep the Saints in New Orleans to reward their fans for staying by the team even after the destruction that Katrina left on the city. The problem is owner Tom Benson has wanted to leave New Orleans for years, even before Big K showed up. Louisiana is one of the poorest states in the U.S. and the Superdome, even with the refurbishing it received, is an outdated stadium.

Only time will tell, but rest assured, the NFL is firmly resolved to have a franchise in Los Angeles and it's only a matter of time before it happens.

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Bush Message Could Be Messy For Saints

The New Orleans Saints felt it received a gift from God when USC tailback Reggie Bush fell to them with the second pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.

The Saints grabbed Bush immediately after the Houston Texans decided to select DE Mario Williams out of NC State with the top overall choice. Texans owner Bob McNair and ousted GM Charlie Casserly proceeded to sign Williams to a six year, 54 million dollar contract.

New Orleans fans, looking to celebrate anything after Hurricane Katrina, rejoiced on the air during draft day and went out and rewarded owner Tom Benson and the Saints with a sellout of all season tickets.

The Bush era began in a positive way, but now, things aren't looking so good. Bush told ESPN.com in a recent interview that the Saints need to be open at the negotiating table. "We have to have a fair offer. One that meets with our expectations." The 'we' and 'our' meaning Bush and his agent Joel Segal.

The word was not mentioned but the meaning and implication were obvious - if Bush didn't get the offer he wanted then a holdout is possible. What does he want? A contract similar to or slightly better than the one Williams got from Houston. Maybe that's why the Texans passed on him?

And while it's too early for New Orleans to push the panic button just yet, a holdout is something the franchise, the city and Bush for that matter, do not need.

Benson, a notoriously frugal owner, has been trying to get out of New Orleans for a decade. He may not be willing to give in to Bush's demands. The city and its inhabitants need someone or something to look up to. The football fans seemed to have found it in the USC product. But what will the reaction be to Bush if he does holdout.

Bush will be hurting his career if he has a protracted holdout and misses significant camp time. Everyone who has ever done so has suffered for it in their rookie season. The NFL is faster, more explosive and more dynamic than college. A holdout has to go through a steep learning curve to get into a groove.

A recent example is Chicago running back Cedric Benson. The Texas star was absent for most of training camp and suffered for it. He failed to remove Thomas Jones as the starter and when he started to come on by the middle of the season, he suffered a season-ending knee injury.

This may be all smoke and mirrors just to get a big contract. Unfortunately, this is an all-too common occurrence in the modern NFL. Guys who haven't played a down are getting eight and nine million dollars a year with huge signing bonuses. The agents have to because there is no guaranteed contracts in the National Football League, so the signing bonus was created. It's up-front money that's guaranteed.

Still, I long for the days when a rookie would sign a reasonable contract, get into camp and learn the system and then earn a big contract out on the field. Believe me. If he's good, he'll eventually get the big bucks, through an extension or free agency.

Just sign and get into camp - perform on the field - the money will follow. Because you never know. Bush may be the next Sayers like everyone says or he could end up being the next KiJana Carter. Nothing is certain until he proves it on the gridiron, not at the negotiating table.

L.A. Closer to Bringing Back an NFL Team

It's no secret that outgoing NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue has wanted a team back in Los Angeles ever since the Rams and Raiders defected in 1994. It's the one goal he hasn't been able to accomplish in an otherwise impressive tenure.

Despite numerous rumors throughout the past decade of an expansion team or even an existing franchise moving to the City of Angels, nothing has become of it. All the while, the cash-stuffed NFL owners and management keep hoping that someday the second largest media market will have a pro football team to call its own.

Make no mistake, Tagliabue and company want a team in L.A. and will put one there before the decade is out. Even if the Southern California fan base is somewhat apathetic at times to even having an NFL team in the first place.

For those who are old enough to remember when the Rams were strutting their stuff in the seventies. A then record seven consecutive division titles, five NFC championship game appearances and even a Super Bowl berth in 1979, weren't enough to bring out the L.A. crowd.

Even with all that success, Carol Rosenbloom's Rams didn't have a sellout. Yes they played in that cavern known as the Coliseum. But even so, fellow tenant USC managed to out-draw the Rams during their Super Bowl year, causing the first blow that would eventually see the Rams leave California and call St. Louis home in 1995.

No matter. Money is what's driving the latest push to get a team in L.A. The NFL has grown so rapidly since 1994 that not having a team in the second largest media market is foolish. The revenues are too much to resist. Even at the risk of some fan apathy.

The city has picked up on Tagliabue's desire for a franchise to go back there. The Los Angeles City Council just recently voted to spend $25 million dollars on improvements at the Coliseum in hopes of speeding up the process of getting a team.

There is also a proposal on the table to spend upwards of $800 million dollars for a complete renovation of the stadium should the NFL owners approve a motion to put a team in L.A. by the 2009 season.

I for one think it would be a good idea to bring a team back to Los Angeles. It's a city that has had a rich NFL history since the Rams moved from Cleveland in 1946. It's a large TV market that will increase the amount of revenue shared between clubs and will only make the game better and more competitive because of it.

The problem comes in deciding what city will lose its franchise. We already have 32 teams so an expansion team is out of the question. It would wreak havoc with the schedule. That means an existing club will be picked. The most likely candidates are the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints and even the Colts and Vikings have been included in the talks.

The choice that makes the most sense is San Diego. The franchise started in L.A. back in 1960 and with the city council recently voting down a tax increase for a new stadium, Chargers owner Alex Spanos could be on the move.

The NFL is doing the right thing. Los Angeles needs a professional football franchise and the NFL can be even greater with the City of Angels on board for the long haul.

QB Delight

This weeks podcast on Carson's Corner focuses on two quarterbacks. One coming and one going. New England signal caller Doug Flutie decided to hang it up after a 21-year career in the NFL, CFL and the USFL.

Joey Harrington will changing scenery, going from Detroit to Miami after a deal was struck late last week. How much of an impact can he make for the Dolphins. The Corner also takes a look at how the Ramonce Taylor arrest will effect Mack Brown and Texas.

Download MP3 here.

Smith Should Go To Hall

Former All-Pro Jimmy Smith, wide receiver of the Jacksonville Jaguars, announced his retirement on Friday after 14 years in the NFL. In his press conference he stated that the time was right to go out on top and that he'd left a good legacy on the field.

Amazingly, some analysts and writers spoke out almost immediately after with columns and editorial pieces screaming that Smith will not and should not be enshrined in Canton. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Jimmy Smith is one of the all-time greats at his position. The stats speak louder than his words ever could. After injury problems and struggles at Dallas, where he played from 1992-94, the Jackson State product found a home with the expansion Jaguars in 1995. The rest, as they say, is history.

It was in Jacksonville that Smith and QB Mark Brunell found each other. And while no Super Bowl berths came out of it (the Jags did go to the AFC championship game in 1998), the Brunell-Smith combo was one of the most potent in the NFL.

For his career, Smith has 862 receptions, good enough for seventh place on the all-time list and more than any receiver currently in the Hall. His 12,287 receiving yards is eleventh in history to go along with 67 touchdowns. Of course all of those marks are Jaguar team records. Even more impressive was his 70 catches for 1,023 yards and six touchdowns last year at the age of 36.

He was selected to five pro bowls and put up impressive stats despite a career marred by injuries and drug addiction. Smith was able to overcome these setbacks and have a stellar career.

Granted, he wasn't always the best teammate and his character issues caused major problems at times, but the Hall of Fame is about performance on the field, not character off of it. Yes it would be nice if all our athletes were great role models who never did anything wrong and always played by the rules.

Unfortunately, that is only in fairy tales or the movies. Reality is that many athletes are not exemplary role models, but the Hall of Fame is not about character. If that were the case do you think O.J. Simpson or Lawrence Taylor would be in Canton? It's about performance on the field.

And if you are judging performance on the field, Jimmy Smith, despite a turbulent personal life, had an amazing and productive career. His numbers and the way he played the game should make him a solid selection into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

NFL Early Picks

The first round of free agency is gone and the draft is behind us. This weeks podcast on the Corner takes a look at what teams are playoff and possibly Super Bowl contenders.

What teams have positioned themselves as front runners in the AFC and NFC? Who are the top contenders for the Super Bowl? Listen in to this weeks Carson's Corner show and find out.

Download mp3 here.

Undrafted Free Agents Ready to Stake Claim

Every year players who thought they'd be drafted aren't. It's the nature of the business. Some are able to put the disappointment aside and make a career in the NFL. With 150 players undrafted on NFL rosters last season, it's not a pipe dream for these athletes.

Some of these guys will go on to be starters and some may develop and have a hall-of-fame type career. Just ask Rod Smith if you don't believe me.

The NFL knows this too and every year after the draft, a feeding frenzy begins with franchises signing undrafted players left and right.

Some guys have caught the eye of the Corner and I'd like to share with you the players that may be able to stick with an NFL roster come September.

AFC

Baltimore - Drew Olson, QB, UCLA.

Buffalo - Martin Nance, WR, Miami (OH).

Cleveland - Darrell Hackney, QB, UAB.

Houston - Quadtrine Hill, FB, Miami.

Jacksonville - Paul Pinegar, QB, Fresno State.

Miami - Gerald Riggs, Jr., Tennessee.

Olson was a four-year starter with the Bruins and may make the cut with the Ravens. He could learn behind soon-to-be-signed Steve McNair. Nance had a productive MAC career and with Eric Moulds gone, he may be able to latch on. Hackney has tons of athleticism and with Trent Dilfer gone, Crennel needs a backup for Charlie Frye.

Hill is a solid blocker and runner, while Pinegar learned the pro-style offense under Pat Hill and could be the backup to Leftwich. Riggs was inconsistent and had injury problems with the Vols, but with a solid NFL bloodline and Ricky Williams gone for a year, he could end up the number two man behind Ronnie Brown.

NFC

Arizona - Greg Lee, WR, Pitt.

Carolina - Brett Basanez, QB, Northwestern.

Chicago - Tim Day, TE, Oregon; Josh Huston, K, Ohio State; Dwayne Slay, S, Texas Tech.

Dallas - Kai Parham, LB, Virginia.

Detroit - Matt Bernstein, FB, Wisconsin.

New Orleans - Anwar Philips, CB, Penn State.

St. Louis - Mike Degory, C, Florida State.

Tampa Bay - Andre Hill, RB, South Florida.

Washington - Spencer Havner, LB, UCLA.

Lee will have touble making the roster, but he was a teammate of Larry Fitzgerald and will be taken under his wing. Basanez was a three-year starter for the Wildcats and could emerge as Jake Delhomme's backup. The Bears may have signed three roster players. Day was a fourth or fifth round pick by some experts, Huston was solid for the Buckeyes and Slay is a big-hitting safety. Parham was rated by some as a third or fourth rounder, but his injury history and lack of size left him undrafted. He is a player.

Bernstein is a leader who works hard and is tough as nails. He could be starting for the Lions very quickly. Philips was an underrated corner who should have been drafted. Many had him rated ahead of teammate Alan Zemaitis, who was slected in the fourth round by Tampa. Degory was a three-year starter for the Seminoles and the Rams have definite needs along the interior line. Hill is a good, all-purpose back who could be Cadillac Williams' backup. Havner was a tackling machine for the Bruins.

NFL Draft Grades

These were supposed to be posted on Monday, but yours truly was suffering from a little bit of draft hangover and took a couple days off.

This weeks podcast put the finishing touches to the NFL Draft with the Corners official, Grade A, draft grades. Who had the best draft? What team had the worst? Listen in and find out.

Download MP3 here.

NFL Draft Starts With Early Bang

The Houston Texans sent shockwaves throughout the sports world yesterday by signing and making DE Mario Williams the No.1 pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.

While every draftnik was tearing up their mock drafts - the obvious question floating through the ether is why? How can you take Mario Williams ahead of Reggie Bush?

I feel that Williams has the biggest upside of anyone in the draft, but that's upside. Not right now. Williams is still inconsistent, lacks some technique and takes plays off. Bush is the most explosive back to enter the draft since Barry Sanders.

He's a combination of Sanders, Marshall Faulk and somebody named Sayers all rolled into one. Mario Williams will be a great player, but Bush is a game changer. With one run, one catch, one punt return - he can reshape the outcome of any contest. Very few people can do that. Lawrence Taylor was one of a tiny minority of defensive players able to it.

I really have trouble understanding the thinking of the Texans. If they decided that Williams was better for them than Bush, why not trade out of the top spot for more picks? They could have struck a deal with the Saints or Jets and still picked up Williams. In addition to grabbing the extra picks by trading out.

This could end up being one of the biggest blunders in the history of the NFL Draft, but you never know, stranger things have happened. Bush could get hurt or just not make the transition to the NFL, but that's highly unlikely.

Mario Williams will eventually be a great player. Houston's major mistake is that Reggie Bush already is.

***
I still stand by my mock draft. The only change will be Williams at No.1; Bush will go second to the Saints; and the Jets will take D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Everything else stays pat. I hope.

This is just the beginning. It should be an awesome day. This is the most unpredictable draft in years. Just ask Reggie Bush. I for one have my food tray ready and the TV warmed up. I hope your team gets the player you want as long as it doesn't interfere with my team and its needs.

Take care, enjoy the day, and watch for the Corners draft analysis for day one on Sunday and for overall grades on Monday.

NFL Mock Draft

It's time for the NFL Draft. Don't you love it? All over the net, thousands and thousands of mock drafts are laid out for everyone to see. Not to be out-done, the Corner decided to run it's own mock for all the world to see.

This draft is not taking into consideration potential trades or late free agent signings that may effect draft need. Some teams like the Saints, Rams and Bears, are looking to trade down, while others like the Vikings and Patriots want to move up.

It's a crap shoot. Teams lie and spread misinformation. No one knows what will happen, but it's a helluva lot of fun to guess. So, without further delay, here is the Corners very own 2006 NFL mock draft:

1. Houston - Reggie Bush, RB, USC.
Despite all the buzz about the Texans considering Mario Williams this will not happen. Bush is the most electrifying player in the draft. Houston would be crazy not to take him.

2. New Orleans - D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia.
The Saints will wrestle with the pick. Do they take Williams or Ferguson. What they want to do is trade down and get A.J. Hawk. In the end, protecting new QB Drew Brees is most important. Jammal Brown and Ferguson will be awesome bookends for many, many years.

3. Tennessee - Vince Young, QB, Texas.
The coaching staff (Jeff Fisher, Norm Chow) want Matt Leinart. Management (GM Floyd Reese, Owner Bud Adams) want Young. Who do you think will win the argument?

4. New York Jets - Mario Williams, DE, NC State.
Leinart is right there waiting for the Jets to pounce on, but with the loss of John Abraham and the incredible talent of Williams, new defensive-minded head coach Eric Mangini will go for defense. It'll be fun listening to the reaction of the New York fans.

5. Green Bay - A.J. Hawk, OLB, Ohio State.
The Pack gets who many believe is the best all-around defensive player in the draft. He will come in and start immediately for Green Bay.

6. San Francisco - Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland.
Tight ends usually don't go this high, but then again no tight end has ever been as freakishly athletic as Davis. Could redefine the position.

7. Oakland - Matt Leinart, QB, USC.
Al Davis wanted Young, but Leinart is more polished and ready to start right away. Remember the last talented left-hander to start in Oakland? Yes, Ken Stabler. He wasn't too bad now was he?

8. Buffalo - Broderick Bunkley, DT, Florida State.
Marv Levy and company will think about Jay Cutler and Winston Justice with this pick, but Bunkly makes the most sense. He's the most gifted DT in the draft and fits in perfectly with the Bills' scheme.

9. Detroit - Michael Huff, DB, Texas.
Has the talent and athletic gifts to play corner or safety. The best DB in the draft. After three straight years selecting a wide receiver and the mishap of Joey Harrington. Matt Millen better draft defense or it could get ugly in the Motor City.

10. Arizona - Jay Cutler, QB, Vanderbilt.
Dennis Green will consider Ernie Sims with this pick, but with Josh McCown going to Detroit and John Navarre serving as the backup to the 34-year-old, injury prone Kurt Warner, taking your QB of the future makes sense here.

11. St. Louis - Chad Greenway, OLB, Iowa.
Would like to trade down a couple spots, gain some picks and select Tye Hill of Clemson. I don't think that's going to happen, so the safe pick is Greenway. The guy is intense, plays faster than he's been timed and is a tackling machine (401 career stops at Iowa). The Rams were 30th against the run in 2005. Nuff said.

12. Cleveland - Kamerion Wimbley, DE/LB, Florida State.
Fits the mold that Romeo Crennell is looking for in his 3-4 scheme. Can learn the position under Willie McGinest, one of the best.

13. Baltimore - Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon.
Ray Lewis is unhappy. He wants a big DT again in the Sam Adams, Tony Siragusa mold. With the Ravens returning to the 4-3, Lewis gets his wish - a big, run-stuffing tackle.

14. Philadelphia - Winston Justice, OT, USC.
Andy Reid loves to draft offensive lineman and with Tra Thomas not getting any younger, Reid finds his left tackle of the future. Could also consider Ernie Sims with this pick.

15. Denver - Santonio Holmes, WR, Ohio State.
With Rod Smith now 35 and Ashley Lelie wanting out of Mile High, the Broncos look to wide receiver with Holmes being the most ready to play right now. This could change if Denver can deal for Javon Walker.

16. Miami - Manny Lawson, DE/LB, NC State.
Nick Saban will seriously look at Chad Jackson, but with perennial pro bowler Jason Taylor turning 32 and starting to wear down, the Dolphins need to find that linebacker/end tweener who can get after the passer. Lawson is the man to do it.

17. Minnesota - Ernie Sims, OLB, Florida State.
The Vikings were praying that Cutler would fall here and they may look at Jackson as well. But with linebacker being a crucial need and a hard-hitter like Sims falling to 17, Minnesota has to select him.

18. Dallas - Bobby Carpenter, OLB, Ohio State.
Bill Parcells loves players who's dads played the game. Carpenter especially considering his father Rob played for Parcells when Tuna coached the Giants. Dallas needs another linebacker to complete their 3-4 transition and Carpenter is smart and works hard.

19. San Diego - Chad Jackson, WR, Florida.
The Chargers really need a corner, but they must add more weapons to help new QB Philip Rivers. The receiving corps is led by aging Keenan McCardell and guys named Reche Caldwell and Eric Parker. Another weapon to join Antonio Gates and LaDanian Tomlinson will take the pressure off Rivers.

20. Kansas City - Tye Hill, CB, Clemson.
The Chiefs address a real need by drafting the best cover corner in the draft. Despite his small size (5-9, 185), Hill has blazing speed, superb leaping ability and excellent hands.

21. New England - Donte Whitner, S, Ohio State.
The Patriots would love to trade up and get either Hill, Carpenter or Jackson, but I don't see that happening. New England wants to upgrade their secondary and while Antonio Cromartie has tons of talent, his lack of experience and injuries will scare the Pats away.

22. San Francisco - Antonio Cromartie, CB, Florida State.
The Niners secondary is horrible and despite his injury problems, San Fran will not let Cromartie slip any farther.

23. Tampa Bay - Nick Mangold, C, Ohio State.
The Bucs would really love to draft a tackle with their first pick, but Marcus McNeil and his bad back is scaring Tampa away and Eric Winston is too inconsistent to be a first round pick. Mangold is smart, athletic for his size and can play center or guard. He will help the line problems in Buc Land very quickly.

24. Cincinnati - Jimmy Williams, CB, Virginia Tech.
The majority of draft gurus believe that the Bengals are taking a tight end with this pick. Don't forget, the draft is deep this year for tight ends and Marvin Lewis is a defensive guy. Williams has top 10 talent, but fell down the draft because of attitude problems. The Bengals will have a hard time not picking him.

25. New York Giants - Jason Allen, S/CB, Tennessee.
Many feel the Giants will go running back, but once again you have a very talented defensive player falling. This time because of injuries. Allen will be the best defensive player still available and the Giants will be hard-pressed to pass him up.

26. Chicago - Marcedes Lewis, TE, UCLA.
The Bears have a great defense (No. 1 in the NFL in 2005) and a decent one-two punch in the backfield (Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson). What they don't have is another weapon to throw to besides Muhsin Muhammad. Lewis has the best hands of any tight end in the draft, even Vernon Davis.

27. Carolina - LenDale White, RB, USC.
The Panthers need help at linebacker after losing Will Witherspoon and Brandon Short, but John Fox and company will find it hard to believe that White fell this far, despite the injury, and will pull the trigger for Stephen Davis' replacement. This could be the steal of the draft since many scouts have him rated as a top ten talent.

28. Jacksonville - DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis.
The Jags snag Williams in hopes of finding the replacement for the aging Fred Taylor. Williams fell because of his size, but he has worlds of talent and is capable of being a dominant back in the NFL.

29. New York Jets - Lawrence Maroney, RB, Minnesota.
The run on running backs continues as the Jets draft the person they hope will be the replacement for Curtis Martin. New York needs OL help as well and may select G Davin Joseph with the pick. Jets fans would really be happy then.

30. Indianapolis - DeMeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama.
Contrary to popular opinion, the Colts won't take a back in the first round even if White, Maroney or Williams are available. Tony Dungy and company feel they can draft a good back in the second round (Joseph Addai or Jerious Norwood). Indy will be looking to linebacker, where they have lost three starters the last three years in free agency, including David Thornton this season.

31. Seattle - Johnathan Joseph, CB, South Carolina.
The defending NFC champs are thinking about improving their pass rush and could select Mathias Kiwanuka or Tamba Hali with this pick. But Holmgren has been adamant about improving the secondary so corner looks like the choice. Kelly Jennings and Ashton Youboty are possible selections as well, but Joseph has more upside.

32. Pittsburgh - Sinorice Moss, WR, Miami.
The Super Bowl champs are looking at safety (Ko Simpson and Darnell Bing) and corner (Jennings and Youboty), but if there's any weakness on the Steelers it's at wide receiver. After losing Antwaan Randle-El to the Redskins, Bill Cowher has Cedrick Wilson and Quincey Morgan fighting to play alongside Hines Ward. That won't cut it for the Steelers. Randle-El was their speed guy and punt returner. Even though Moss is only in the 5-7, 5-8 range, he has 4.3 speed and would be a significant upgrade to the Steelers at the receiver position and in special teams.

Favre Will Play Another Season - Awesome!

Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre ended months of speculation Wednesday when he announced he'll be returning for his 16th NFL season.

The second all-time leading passer in pro football history decided that he didn't want to end his career with a 4-12 record and a career high 29 picks hanging over him from last season.

With his announcement, everyone in Green Bay breathed a sigh of relief and now can look forward to the draft. With Ahman Green healthy, Charles Woodson signed and Vernon Davis or A.J. Hawk in their sights, Packer Nation has reason to be optimistic.

Outside of Green Bay, the reaction to Favre has been completely different. The majority of sports writers, columnist and football fans in general is one of negativity. I've read tons of columns stating Favre is not the same player, he doesn't have passion anymore and needs to retire.

To be frank, that's a load of horse dung! I agree that Favre isn't the same player who won three straight MVP awards and took the Packers to two Super Bowls between 1995-97. But even a 37-year old Favre is better than 90 percent of the quarterbacks in the NFL.

Also, Favre doesn't have the players around him he used to have. The talent level in Green Bay has thinned considerably. Unless football changed during the off-season, it's still a team game. No matter how good someone is, they can't do it alone.

The numbers speak for themselves: 4,678 completions on 7,610 attempts for 53,615 yards and 396 touchdowns. All those numbers are second in NFL history. By the end of this season, Favre could be numero uno in completions and TDs.

Questioning his passion is even more ridiculous. The guy has started an NFL record 221 straight games. He's played with broken bones, deaths in the family, his wife battling cancer and a host of other ailments and problems. Did he miss any games? Never! Did his level of play drop? NO!

Favre plays the game the way it should be. With the enthusiasm of a kid in the backyard. Does he throw the ball up for grabs at times? Does he take some chances that don't work out? Of course, but that's what makes Favre who he is. More times than not, his gambles pay off big time.

The QB from Kiln, Mississippi makes the league better and I for one, hope he stays in the game as long as his body holds up and the passion still burns inside. He's the face of the Packers, the face of the NFL and a truly amazing athlete.

As much as he's given to the game, let him decide when it's time to go. Why would anyone want to see Favre leave? It's crazy.

Enjoy it while he's here because when Brett Favre finally hangs up his cleats, pro football will never see his like again.

NFL Draft-Defensive Backs and Kickers

This weeks final podcast on the NFL Draft Preview looks at the defensive backs and kickers that may go on the first day.

The safety position is a deep group that's paced by all-everything Michael Huff of Texas, while Virginia Tech's Jimmy Williams, Florida State's Antonio Cromartie and Clemson's Tye Hill lead the corners.

Download the MP3 here

NFL Draft Tidbits

It seems LenDale White and his torn hamstring may not fall out of the first round after all. Five teams (Denver, Dallas, Pittsburgh, Carolina and Indianapolis) are very interested in White, regardless of his injury.

Despite not participating at the combine or at the USC pro day, White's size and production in college (55 TDs, back-to-back thousand yard seasons), appear too good for some teams to let him slip out of the first round.

While I doubt the Broncos and Cowboys will grab White with the 15th and 18th picks respectively, the Panthers, Colts and Steelers are definitely interested in the big 244-pound behemoth in the bottom of the round.

Denver coach Mike Shanahan is looking for someone to replace Mike Anderson, who packed his bags and signed with Baltimore. The Broncos were trying to work a deal with Miami for Ricky Williams, but his impending drug suspension ruined that. Even though White is tempting, the Broncos need a wideout. Rod Smith is 35-years old and Ashley Lelie has been a bust and wants out of the Mile High City. Denver will grab a receiver.

Carolina released Stephen Davis and starter DeShaun Foster gets hurt just walking out on the field, so White is a possibility. The problem is the Panthers lost up and coming linebacker Will Witherspoon to St. Louis and Brandon Short went back to the Giants. Linebacker will be a priority for coach John Fox and the Panthers.

I see White going to Pittsburgh or Indianapolis. The Colts have their sites set on Minnesota's Lawrence Maroney, but he may go to the Jets with their second pick in the first round. Indy needs linebackers and secondary help, but losing Edgerrin James could tip the edge to White. New starter Dominic Rhodes is smaller in stature and the Colts are used to a big power back in the James mold.

The Steelers have some need at receiver (Antwan Randle-El left for Washington) and secondary (Chris Hope to Tennessee), but Bill Cowher loves big backs and with 'The Bus' retired, White may be the guy for them.

***

Barring any last minute draft day trades, the first seven picks look set. Houston will select RB Reggie Bush; New Orleans will go with DE Mario Williams; Tennessee will pick QB Matt Leinart; the Jets will grab OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson; Green Bay will take OLB A.J. Hawk; San Francisco will select TE Vernon Davis and Oakland will go with QB Vince Young.

Buffalo selects in the eighth spot and are interested in defensive tackles Broderick Bunkley and Haloti Ngata; tackle Winston Justice and DB Michael Huff. The rest of the first round depends on what the Bills, Marv Levy in particular, decide.

Look for the Corners entire first round mock draft next week.

Coaches Clinic-Center Pass Drill

It's often best to have the beginning player use a simple drill to develop snapping skills.

The center kneels on his right knee, grasping the ball in both hands. He then takes the ball off the ground and holds it over his head. With the ball behind and over his head, arms fully extended, he should pass the ball forward to another center, who is also kneeling and facing him from 10 yards away.

It is important for the coach to to emphasize that the center follow through after the pass and that the fingers of both hands end up reaching out toward his partner. The same motion is used when snapping the ball between his legs.

This coaching tip/drill brought to you by www.pigskinplaybooks.com

NFL Draft-Defensive Line and Linebackers

This weeks podcast on the Corner takes a look at the defensive lineman and linebackers that should be selected on the first day of the draft.

The OLB class is solid with A.J. Hawk, Ernie Sims and Chad Greenway highlighting the group, while Mario Williams, Broderick Bunkley, Haloti Ngata and Manny Lawson are at the forefront of the defensive line.

Download the MP3 here.

White Injury, Williams Decision Will Alter Draft

The LenDale White injury and the Ricky Williams hearing graced the internet and the sports pages this week with little fanfare, but these two supposedly unrelated events have something very much in common.

Both outcomes have a lot of meaning as far as the NFL Draft is concerned. How you may be thinking? I'm glad you asked.

Throughout every draft, a high-ranking player on every scribes draft board falters. That's the nature of the business of football. This is a numbers game. The NFL has numbers for 40 times, vertical leaps, bench press reps and even a value is given for the round your picked in and what salary you can earn for each round.

White has become this years avalanche. Aaron Rodgers was the guy last season. Most experts had him going one or two - he ended up at 24. Before the combine, White was projected as a top ten pick by some, a top 15 by most.

That is, until the combine. At Indy, White didn't participate in any event but the 225-pound bench press. He maxed out at 15 reps. His teammate, Reggie Bush, who is 45 pounds lighter, did 24 reps. Uh-oh!

Then some two months later at the USC pro day, White weighed in at 244 pounds, nine pounds heavier than at the combine and didn't participate in any workouts. Red flags were waved. His stock was dropping faster then Enron's and Martha Stewart Living put together.

This week came the news that White has a torn hamstring up near the pelvic area. What are the ramifications from his injury? For starters, White's chances of being drafted in the first round are over. No one is going to take a player in the first round who is injured and hasn't a 40 time or any significant numbers to compare to other backs.

He will fall into the second round and may become the steal of the draft. Only time will tell. The implications of his injury are immediate. White was projected to be a top 20 pick. With that gone, all other backs move up. UCLA tailback Maurice Drew could move into the first round. The Indianapolis Colts are sick, because they were pretty confident that Laurence Maroney was theirs. Now he may be gone by the time they pick at 30. The draft boards of some teams will be completely re-organized.

Williams made a huge splash in 1999 when Mike Ditka, then head coach of the New Orleans Saints, did the unprecedented and traded away his entire draft for the rights to take Ricky. We all remember Ditka wearing dreadlocks and saying how great of a deal he made. Right.

Now eight years and much bong resin later, Williams is causing a draft stir again. Only this time it's because of his off-field incidents.

The Miami Dolphin back, who rushed for over 700 yards after coming back from retirement, failed a fourth drug test, according to the NFL and will be suspended for the season. Williams immediately filed an appeal. In it, the former Texas Longhorn star stated that he wasn't taking any drugs, but a natural herb supplement.

The NFL heard his appeal this week. Williams even had Dolphin head coach Nick Sabin on hand to lend support.

Make no mistake, Sabin was doing it for selfish reasons. He was close to trading Williams to the Broncos this off-season and now that Denver has two first round picks, he really wants to talk. But, even if a deal wouldn't go down, Sabin would love to keep Ricky just in case something should happen to Ronnie Brown.

Make no mistake, whatever the NFL decides about Williams will have major draft implications, at least for the Dolphins and maybe the Broncos. The mysterious power of synchronicity is at work here. The LenDale White and Ricky Williams stories may seem unconnected to the undiscerning eye, but come draft day, many teams will feel the effects of both.

Coaches Clinic - Eye Opener Drill

Eye Opener Drill

A A1

Bag (separated by) Bag

Coach

B B1

We emphasize that at the corners the players who get there first, with the most enthusiasm, control the game.

Players A1 & B1 await the toss of the ball by the coach, which determines offense and defense. Upon the pitch, all four men storm between the dummies (bags) and fight for either a gain or prevent a gain of 3 yards.

We have championships and challenges. If a boy likes to hit and move it will show.

Brought to you by www.pigskinplaybooks.com

NFL Draft-Offensive Line & Tight Ends

This weeks podcast on the Corner takes a look at the offensive lineman and tight ends that should be selected on the first day of the draft.

The OL class is a solid group with D'Brickashaw Ferguson and Winston Justice highlighting the tackles, while Nick Mangold and Davin Joseph hold down the interior line. The tight end class may be one of the best ever with as many as seven or eight players going on day one.

Download the MP3 here.

Saints Trade Will Impact Draft

Lost in the headlines this week was the trade the New Orleans Saints made with the Atlanta Falcons that will have a huge impact in the top half of the 2006 draft.

The Saints traded away starting left tackle Wayne Gandy to the Falcons for safety Bryan Scott and a future late-round draft pick. This trade gives us a pretty good indication of how the top 10 picks may pan out.

With Jammal Brown moving over to the left side after an impressive rookie campaign, that leaves Jon Stinchcomb the new starter on the right side, despite missing all of 2005 with a knee injury. Or does it?

Would Saints owner Tom Benson hand the reigns of the franchise to newly acquired quarterback Drew Brees, who is coming off an injury himself, and then have him protected by a lineman who has gimpy knees?

How do they know Brown will be able to handle the left side? He's a powerhouse run blocker, but needs work on his pass protection.

The obvious choice for New Orleans and their number two or four pick would be mammoth tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, rated by some scouts as the best tackle prospect since Orlando Pace came out in 1997. A bookend of Brown, at his normal position on the right side, and Ferguson, manning the left, would have Deuce McAllister drooling and defensive coordinators crying.

The only thing that could possibly change that scenario is South Carolina defensive end Mario Williams. the 6-7, 295-pound monster is a potential game changer and the Saints will probably not decide until their time runs out on April 29th.

I believe New Orleans will go with Ferguson, even if the rumor of the Jets moving up to grab the Saints two spot holds true.

The top ten picks, according to yours truly, play out like this. Houston will take Reggie Bush, RB, USC; the Jets will give up one of their number ones, move up in the draft, and take Matt Linehart, QB, USC; the Titans will grab Vince Young, QB, Texas; the Saints will take Ferguson; and the Packers will scoop up Williams at number five.

The San Francisco 49ers will pick up A.J. Hawk at the sixth spot; the Oakland Raiders will take Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland; the Buffalo Bills will snap up Broderick Bunkley, DT, Florida State; the Lions will take Michael Huff, DB, Texas and the Cardinals will plan for the future by picking Vanderbilt QB Jay Cutler at number ten.

It should make for a very interesting top ten come draft day.

Coaches Clinic-Defensive Back Drill

Butt-To-Butt Drill

The defensive back faces the coach to the inside of the receiver with his butt touching the butt of the receiver.

The receiver starts on his own and the defensive back chases him down. The ball is thrown a little short. When the receivers hands go up for the catch, we try to strip or deflect the pass.

The defender keeps his eyes on the receiver and doesn't look back for the ball.

Brought to you by www.pigskinplaybooks.com

NFL Draft-Wide Receivers

This weeks podcast on the Corner takes a look at the wide receivers that should be selected on the first day of the draft.

This class is decent, but there's not much depth, so there should be plenty of receivers being snapped up early. In the middle rounds lies my sleeper pick. Want to know who it is? Listen in to find out.

Hint: He's from C-USA.

Download MP3 here.

NFL Clamps Down on Celebrations

The buzz coming out of the NFL owners meetings this week was the elimination of the modern day end zone celebration.

The days of excessive celebration is over. All I can say is thank goodness for that. No more Joe Horn cell phones, T.O and his sharpie and Chad Johnson giving CPR to a football.

Don't get me wrong. I think guys should celebrate and be happy when they score. But that doesn't mean they should showboat, carry on a big production and put the emphasis on the individual over the team. Spike it, dunk it, jump into the crowd. That's fine by me - and the NFL too - just don't use the pylon as a putter.

Spikes, leaps into the crowd and simple celebrations are still allowed. The NFL isn't trying to take the fun out of the game - just the garbage that shouldn't be in it to begin with.

The vote was 29-3. An obvious sign that the owners are sick of this stuff as well. Under the new rules, the officials have the power to penalize a team 15 yards on the ensuing kickoff.

This will only make the game better. Walter Payton, Gale Sayers, Jerry Rice and Barry Sanders didn't need to gyrate and show off after a touchdown. Modern day players like LaDanian Tomlinson and Torry Holt act like they've been in the end zone before. The true superstars of the game know the NFL is better without all that junk.

It's gotten so bad that defensive guys start dancing after a simple tackle. I echo the sentiments of Dick Butkus who once said, "C'mon guys, act like you've been there before. That's your job. You're supposed to make the tackle."

Football is the ultimate team sport. One man can't do it alone. No matter how talented he his. The excessive celebrations are one of the few black eyes that this great game has. But thanks to some solid leadership on the part of the NFL owners, this black eye may start to clear up.

Other significant rules changes from the meetings:

1. Replay challenges will now be used on down-by-contact plays. In addition, the time officials have to review a challenge has been shortened from 90 to 60 seconds.

2. A rushing defensive player will be penalized for hitting a quarterback below the knees unless he is coming off a block or is pushed into the QB.

3. Long snappers will no longer have a defensive player lined up in front of him. They have to be at an angle now.

4. The Horse Collar tackle was expanded to include grabbing the back of the players jersey. (That's a dumb one. Sometimes the only way to make a tackle is to grab the jersey. In my opinion, it shouldn't have been put in).

While there's still work to be done, the Competition Committee has done a pretty good job making the game safer and better.

Coaches Clinic-Angle Drills

Coach

Defensive man Defensive man

Offensive man

Explanation: Place one offensive lineman and two defensive lineman as shown. On the count, both defensive men charge straight ahead. The offensive man blocks the defensive man as indicated by the coach. Coaches check for proper step, contact and leg drive.

For more information see: www.pigskinplaybooks.com

NFL Draft-Running Backs

This weeks podcast on the Corner takes a look at the running backs and fullbacks that should be selected on the first day of the draft.

This class is solid - not spectacular - so there should be plenty of talent available into the later rounds. In those later rounds lies my sleeper pick. Want to know who it is? Listen in to find out.

Hint: He's from the ACC.

Download mp3 here.

Coaches Clinic-Part 1

This is the first in a series on coaching football by the guys at Pigskin Playbooks. They have an awesome system for coaching youth football and it's advanced enough to work on the high school level as well. I asked them to make some lessons up for Carson's Corner and they were nice enough to agree.

This is the Corners attempt to bring you everything - and I do mean everything - pertaining to the game of football, including coaching. The first part of the series focuses on an overall defensive football philosophy.

Defensive Philosophy

Obtaining The Ball

• Three downs and out
• Interceptions
• Cause and recover fumbles

Priorities

• Aggressive attacking defense
• One play at a time

Play The Next Play

• Force turnovers
• Force teams to make mistakes
• Be a great tackling team
• Score on defense

To Do This We Must:

• Be in excellent playing condition
• Eliminate mistakes - make daily improvements
• Great execution and second effort
• Maintain poise and confidence at all times
• Respect your teammates

To learn more about coaching at the youth football level and beyond, please visit www.pigskinplaybooks.com to learn more.

The Baker's Dozen - My Personal Big Board

One of the things I love to do is read stuff by Mel Kiper (ESPN) and Todd McShay from Scouts, Inc. and follow their ever changing big boards leading up to the draft.

It's always interesting to see who they feel is rising or falling. With each pro day and individual workout, evaluations are taking place by scouts and personnel people. A one second difference in a 40 time could be millions lost to a player. And right there is Mel, Todd, Gary Horton (War Room) or someone to sort it out.

Since I'm such an opinionated SOB, I thought I'd chime in with my own big board. I call it the Baker's Dozen. The 13 best players - regardless of position - I would choose from if I had the call in an NFL war room.

These rankings are based on football ability, not just 40 times or vertical leaps or any of that jazz. While it's important to be fast, strong and athletic - it's also critical to evaluate players by a sometimes forgotten part of the process - CAN HE PLAY FOOTBALL EXCEPTIONALLY WELL!

Enough talk. Here for your entertainment and education - The Baker's Dozen Big Board:

1. Mario Williams, DE, NC State - This kid is more freaky than the Freak - Jevon Kearse. He's 6-7, 285 pounds of pure athleticism. His workouts at the combine, including a 4.6 in the 40, clinched the deal. Should be a top five selection. In my humble opinion, the player with the most promise in this draft.

2. D'Brickashaw Ferguson, OT, Virginia - Has size, lateral quickness and mean streak to be a dominate left tackle for many years to come. Needs to get stronger but that will come. This is a guy you build your franchise around.

3. A.J. Hawk, OLB, Ohio State - Has a non-stop motor and is a tackling machine. His 4.5 in the 40 had scouts drooling and solidified him as the best linebacker in the Class of 2006.

4. Matt Leinart, QB, USC - Good size (6-4, 224) and excellent leadership abilities. Prototype drop-back passer that will have a long, all-pro career. A definite franchise QB. Arm strength in question, but how can you argue about a guy that was 45-2 has a starter and won two national championships in three seasons.

5. Reggie Bush, RB, USC - Comes right out of the Marshall Faulk and Thurman Thomas school of all-purpose backs. Excellent vision, cut-back ability and speed. Has the potential to be a 1,000 yard rusher and receiver before he finishes his career.

6. Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland - Wowed scouts at combine with best workout numbers ever for a tight end. Ran 4.38 in the 40, had a 40-inch vertical and a 10-8 broad jump. Excellent hands and bulk (254 pounds), but struggles sometimes with blocking. A tad undersized at 6-3, but he will cause havoc for defenses.

7. Michael Huff, S, Texas - Has everything you could want in a safety - size (200 pounds), speed (4.45) and he's a nasty tackler with a nose for the football. Can also play corner, making him even more valuable. A solid player.

8. Haloti Ngata, DT, Oregon - Will be an excellent two-gap run stuffer, but needs to develop more stamina. Awesome size (6-4, 338) and strength. Has a tendency to play high but is thick and powerful. Just what you need from a run bashing tackle.

9. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Memphis - A lot like Bush. Has nice vision, quickness and initial burst. Decent cutting skills and very compact and muscular. Decent hands and a good leader on and off the field. Lack of size (5-8, 200) and injury problems in high school and college could be red flags for some teams.

10. Chad Greenway, OLB, Iowa - Awesome size for an outside backer (6-2, 243) and excellent speed (4.5). Is relentless in his pursuit of the ballcarrier. Goes sideline to sideline to make plays and uses his hands well. Needs a little work in his coverage skills, but should step in and be a starter right away.

11. Jimmy Williams, CB, Virginia Tech - The best shut down corner in the draft. Good size (6-2, 205) and closing speed. Williams is strong and used to play safety so he can help in run support. Decent leaping ability and soft hands.

12. DeMeco Ryans, OLB, Alabama - Has a motor that never stops. Powerful tackler and excellent pass rusher. Good leadership skills and solid work ethic. Only liability could be lack of speed (4.7) compared to other pro linebackers.

13. Winston Justice, OT, USC - This guy has some baggage which could hurt his draft stock. On the field he has the potential to be an elite tackle from the left or right side. Good height and has the body type to add more bulk. Good balance and fluid feet. Sat out season and has been arrested twice on misdemeanors.

NFL Draft-Quarterbacks

Here's the very first podcast from Carson's Corner. In the first of our weekly podcasts leading up to the draft, the spotlight shines on the signal callers. Who will be taken on day one? Which QB is the super sleeper that will make someone very happy? The Corner has the answer.

Also, we discuss if Terrell Owens will be able to co-exist in Dallas and the impact that outgoing commissioner Paul Tagliabue has had in his 16-year tenure with the NFL.

Download the MP3 right here.

Back and Better Than Ever

Sorry I haven't written in a while. Certain personal issues came up that I had to deal with, but now I'll be devoting full-time to this blog and my other internet endeavors.

In addition to my football columns, we will now have articles on coaching, drills, training and news sections - all football related. Staring next week, Carson's Corner will conduct two podcasts a week.

One will be on coaching football - in particular youth football, and the other will be on the latest football news from the colliegate and pro ranks and my take on it. I think you'll find both infomative and interesting.

Here at Carson's Corner, we pull no punches. It's my opinions dished out piping hot. Sometimes some swearing will burst forth. If you're easily offended - don't listen. It's my blog, my podcasts and I believe in saying what's on my mind.

In closing, I really hope you enjoy it and drop me a line from time to time - even if you don't like it. Let me hear from you. I started this blog because I'm a football fanatic and I love to write. Those two combined make me compelled to do this. Enjoy!

Take care. Talk to ya soon!

Seahawks Had To Fight Steelers And Officials

Someone needs to call the Detroit PD because the Seattle Seahawks got robbed.

Anyone who watched Super Bowl XL with an unbiased eye knows that the MVP award should have gone to the officials – not Hines Ward.

Bill Leavy and his crew did everything in their power to ensure that the Pittsburgh Steelers and Jerome Bettis, the feel-good media story of the week, came away with the Lombardi Trophy.

Never before in the history of the biggest sporting event on earth have the zebras been so visible. Never before have their decisions made such an impact.

The Seahawks were screwed. There’s no better way to say it. A spoonful of sugar won’t make the medicine go down any easier for Seattle, their fans or any lover of professional football in general.

The proof is in the videotape. Four bad, no horrendously bad calls, spelled the end for the Seahawks.

Matt Hasselbeck connected with Darrell Jackson for an apparent 16-yard touchdown in the first quarter. The play was nullified on an offensive interference call that clearly wasn’t.

It was ticky-tack all the way. Jackson and corner Chris Hope were both trying to establish position and while Jackson did use his arm, he did not create any separation by knocking Hope backwards or off his angle. Which is what the rule book states as offensive interference.

Jerry Rice, Torry Holt, Michael Irvin and many other top receivers make or made their living doing what Jackson did and it’s never called. If anything, Hope was grabbing at Jackson beyond the five-yard boundry.

Next is the Ben Roethlisberger mystery touchdown. In the second quarter, the Steelers had the ball with a third-and-goal at the Seahawk 1. Roethlisberger ran the QB Draw and took a dive to try and get in.

The side judge was running to mark the spot of the ball at the inch line and for some unknown reason, hesitated and raised his arms for the touchdown instead.

I’m sure everyone who worships the Black and Gold we’ll swear by all that’s holy that the ball crossed the plane. Just as every Seahawk fan will say he didn’t. That’s the dichotomy of perception – no two people see anything the same.

Regardless, I’m willing to bet that eight-out-of-ten times a touchdown is not called with different officials in place. In my opinion, Roethlisberger never broke the plane. He put the ball across the line after he was down and it shouldn’t have been a score.

But the worst - and most damaging call - came early in the fourth quarter.

With the Steelers up 14-10, Hasselbeck hit tight end Jerramy Stevens with an 18-yard strike that gave Seattle the ball at the Pittsburgh 1. Or so they thought.

Leavy called right tackle Sean Locklear with a supposed holding call, so instead of first-and-goal at the 1 and the chance to complete a 98-yard touchdown drive and take a three-point lead, Seattle faced first-and-20 at the 29.

Three-plays later, Ike Taylor intercepted the Hasselbeck pass, destroying the Seahawks’ spirit and costing them a chance for the championship.

The call was bogus. New Hall-of-Famer John Madden saw no infraction and said so. The replay showed no holding. Apparently Leavy and his crew don’t know what holding is. Locklear should’ve gone over, grabbed him and demonstrated personally.

The icing on the cake came during the interception. Hasselbeck went low to tackle Taylor, which is legal when going after the ball carrier. For some otherworldly reason, he was called for a chop block – a 15-yard personal foul that gave the Steelers a short field at their own 44.

Four plays-later, a demoralized Seattle team put up little resistance as Pittsburgh scored to set the final tally at 21-10.

Who knows what would have happened if those calls had gone Seattle’s way?

They dominated the first half – Pittsburgh didn’t have a first down until 19 minutes had passed. And even with Mr. Official against them, the Seahawks rang 400 yards of total offense on the vaunted Steeler defense.

Truth be told, it wasn’t a very good Super Bowl to watch. Mistakes and sloppy play dominated. Neither team looked like world champions.

In the end, the Seattle Seahawks gave a valiant effort, but couldn’t overcome the Pittsburgh Steelers or the officials.

Nothing can change the outcome. History will acknowledge the Steelers champions for the 2005 season. A history making fifth title (tied with Dallas and San Francisco) is theirs. No one can take it away.

In time, what will be forgotten is how the outcome of the greatest game on its grandest stage was taken out of the player’s hands by the referees.

The only questions that remain in the aftermath of Super Bowl XL are – where will Bill Leavy put his MVP award and what’s the maximum penalty for robbery in Detroit?