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The darkest moments of the worst year in Kansas City Chiefs history had nothing to do with football.
Real life, the type of terrible violence that happens all too frequently across America, had invaded the NFL. Jovan Belcher, a 25-year-old linebacker, returned home from a night of partying with another woman early on Dec. 1, 2012, argued with his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins, then killed her.
Belcher kissed Perkins as she lay dying in the couple's master bathroom, kissed his three-month-old daughter, who was in the arms of his stunned mother, and fled. He drove his black Bentley to work, and in the parking lot of the Chiefs' practice facility, in front of his head coach and general manager, shot himself in his head.
That was a Saturday morning. The Chiefs played the next day on one of the most surreal Sundays in NFL history, beating the Carolina Panthers for their second and final win of the year.
They will play again Sunday, exactly one year since the tragedy. So much has changed for the Chiefs since. Scott Pioli and Romeo Crennel, the former general manager and head coach, who received deserved praise for how they handled the aftermath of the incident, were fired, the result of a 2-14 season.
Under new head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs are winning. At 9-2, Kansas City is destined for the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
Twenty-two of Belcher's teammates remain on the Chiefs roster, including nine on defense, and three linebackers – the players who spent the most time with Belcher.
"The best thing we did from last year, from the big tragedy, is put it behind us. It's something that's not talked about," linebacker Derrick Johnson told USA TODAY Sports. "It's remembered, but it's never really talked about because we want the families to be in peace. It's two families that are very sad and are going to be sad for a while. They lost two people, and that will always be remembered."
But Perkins' death still resonates, as does the fact that the incident left Zoey Belcher, the couple's infant daughter an orphan. Perkins was close with the wives of several players, and was the first-cousin of Whitney Charles, the wife of running back Jamaal Charles. This wasn't the bond of a locker room or friendship. For Charles, who has repeatedly declined requests to speak about the incident, Perkins was family.
Zoey, who turned 1 in September and will receive more than $1 million as Belcher's beneficiary, is being raised in Austin, Texas. by Perkins' cousin. Sophie Perkins was awarded custody by a Missouri judge earlier this year after a court battle with Belcher's mother.
The Chiefs have publicly bristled when questions about Belcher and Perkins arise. But publicly, the team is acutely aware that the anniversary may trigger painful memories. The team requested a group of crisis counselors, some of the same people who converged on the facility to help players and staff last year, travel to Kansas City more than a week before the anniversary.
"The Chiefs were proactive and sensitive," Troy Vincent the NFL's vice president of player engagement, told USA TODAY Sports. "I commend what [the Chiefs] did, and our response team. Let's not assume everyone is OK. This was a national tragedy – many of his teammates are still there. There's still a scar there.
"During this anniversary time, those suppressed memories can be triggered. That's very important. So what did we do -- we had someone one site that was a resource."
The league and another franchise will experience another one of these painful moments on Dec. 8, the one-year anniversary of the death of Jerry Brown, a practice squad linebacker with the Dallas Cowboys. Brown died in a car driven by Cowboys defensive tackle Josh Brent. Brent is facing charges of DUI manslaughter. He voluntarily left the NFL earlier this year.
"It was an emotional roller coaster, but there is no high when you lose a life," Vincent said. "It was an onslaught. Just senseless losses. For us, it was, 'What are we learning from this?'"
In response to the Belcher incident, Brown's death and a pair of suicides by young former players last year, Vincent said the league was forced to re-examine everything it was doing to deal with mental health, domestic violence, alcohol offenses and suicide prevention. In the past year, the NFL has hired Dwight Hollier, a former NFL linebacker with a Master's degree in mental health counseling, to oversee the league's mental health programs, and created a formalized crisis management plan that is consistent for each of the 32 teams.
But the biggest unanswered question, and the one that still haunts Vincent, is what more the NFL could have done to save Perkins. Even a year later, Vincent has a difficult time talking about Perkins without crying.
"When I think about the young lady, I think about my daughters, and I think about we can do for the families," Vincent said. "I live with that image, and it's kind of – it's not an anniversary. It's a daily reminder for me. … We have to make sure the families know in this particular case that we're still here, and we still pray for peace over those families." Perkins was just one of 70 people killed in a domestic violence incident in the state of Missouri last year, according to statistics from the Missouri Crime Reporting System maintained by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. But few murder-suicides attracted such national attention, because of Belcher's career, even as a player who was hardly known outside of Kansas City, or back in Maine where he played college football, or Long Island, where he was raised.
"That's the conundrum of domestic violence in general. This is about how badly the whole country handles it," said Dan Lebowitz, executive director the Center for Sport and Society at Northeastern University in Boston. "This is big conversation, not just around the Jovan Belcher situation, but around the acculturation of young boys, and why we still h
Real life, the type of terrible violence that happens all too frequently across America, had invaded the NFL. Jovan Belcher, a 25-year-old linebacker, returned home from a night of partying with another woman early on Dec. 1, 2012, argued with his girlfriend, Kasandra Perkins, then killed her.
Belcher kissed Perkins as she lay dying in the couple's master bathroom, kissed his three-month-old daughter, who was in the arms of his stunned mother, and fled. He drove his black Bentley to work, and in the parking lot of the Chiefs' practice facility, in front of his head coach and general manager, shot himself in his head.
That was a Saturday morning. The Chiefs played the next day on one of the most surreal Sundays in NFL history, beating the Carolina Panthers for their second and final win of the year.
They will play again Sunday, exactly one year since the tragedy. So much has changed for the Chiefs since. Scott Pioli and Romeo Crennel, the former general manager and head coach, who received deserved praise for how they handled the aftermath of the incident, were fired, the result of a 2-14 season.
Under new head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs are winning. At 9-2, Kansas City is destined for the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
Twenty-two of Belcher's teammates remain on the Chiefs roster, including nine on defense, and three linebackers – the players who spent the most time with Belcher.
"The best thing we did from last year, from the big tragedy, is put it behind us. It's something that's not talked about," linebacker Derrick Johnson told USA TODAY Sports. "It's remembered, but it's never really talked about because we want the families to be in peace. It's two families that are very sad and are going to be sad for a while. They lost two people, and that will always be remembered."
But Perkins' death still resonates, as does the fact that the incident left Zoey Belcher, the couple's infant daughter an orphan. Perkins was close with the wives of several players, and was the first-cousin of Whitney Charles, the wife of running back Jamaal Charles. This wasn't the bond of a locker room or friendship. For Charles, who has repeatedly declined requests to speak about the incident, Perkins was family.
Zoey, who turned 1 in September and will receive more than $1 million as Belcher's beneficiary, is being raised in Austin, Texas. by Perkins' cousin. Sophie Perkins was awarded custody by a Missouri judge earlier this year after a court battle with Belcher's mother.
The Chiefs have publicly bristled when questions about Belcher and Perkins arise. But publicly, the team is acutely aware that the anniversary may trigger painful memories. The team requested a group of crisis counselors, some of the same people who converged on the facility to help players and staff last year, travel to Kansas City more than a week before the anniversary.
"The Chiefs were proactive and sensitive," Troy Vincent the NFL's vice president of player engagement, told USA TODAY Sports. "I commend what [the Chiefs] did, and our response team. Let's not assume everyone is OK. This was a national tragedy – many of his teammates are still there. There's still a scar there.
"During this anniversary time, those suppressed memories can be triggered. That's very important. So what did we do -- we had someone one site that was a resource."
The league and another franchise will experience another one of these painful moments on Dec. 8, the one-year anniversary of the death of Jerry Brown, a practice squad linebacker with the Dallas Cowboys. Brown died in a car driven by Cowboys defensive tackle Josh Brent. Brent is facing charges of DUI manslaughter. He voluntarily left the NFL earlier this year.
"It was an emotional roller coaster, but there is no high when you lose a life," Vincent said. "It was an onslaught. Just senseless losses. For us, it was, 'What are we learning from this?'"
In response to the Belcher incident, Brown's death and a pair of suicides by young former players last year, Vincent said the league was forced to re-examine everything it was doing to deal with mental health, domestic violence, alcohol offenses and suicide prevention. In the past year, the NFL has hired Dwight Hollier, a former NFL linebacker with a Master's degree in mental health counseling, to oversee the league's mental health programs, and created a formalized crisis management plan that is consistent for each of the 32 teams.
But the biggest unanswered question, and the one that still haunts Vincent, is what more the NFL could have done to save Perkins. Even a year later, Vincent has a difficult time talking about Perkins without crying.
"When I think about the young lady, I think about my daughters, and I think about we can do for the families," Vincent said. "I live with that image, and it's kind of – it's not an anniversary. It's a daily reminder for me. … We have to make sure the families know in this particular case that we're still here, and we still pray for peace over those families." Perkins was just one of 70 people killed in a domestic violence incident in the state of Missouri last year, according to statistics from the Missouri Crime Reporting System maintained by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. But few murder-suicides attracted such national attention, because of Belcher's career, even as a player who was hardly known outside of Kansas City, or back in Maine where he played college football, or Long Island, where he was raised.
"That's the conundrum of domestic violence in general. This is about how badly the whole country handles it," said Dan Lebowitz, executive director the Center for Sport and Society at Northeastern University in Boston. "This is big conversation, not just around the Jovan Belcher situation, but around the acculturation of young boys, and why we still h
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The NFL will conduct a review for potential discipline of Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin for stepping onto the field during Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones' kickoff return, according to a league spokesman.
The play Thursday night, which wasn't penalized, will be reviewed over the next week under the NFL's standard procedures.
Tomlin nearly collided with Jones during the third quarter on a 73-yard kickoff return before getting out of the way at the last moment, triggering controversy during the Ravens' 22-20 victory at M&T Bank Stadium.
Afterward, Tomlin said he didn't believe he interfered with Jones.
"I always watch the returns on the Jumbotron," Tomlin said. "It provides better perspective for me. I lost my placement as he broke free and saw at the last second how close I was to the field of play. ...
"I do it quite often, like everybody else in the National Football League. I was wrong. I accept responsibility for it."
After the Super Bowl, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco said he jokingly suggested to teammates that they should run out and tackle San Francisco 49ers kick returner Ted Ginn Jr. during the last play of the game.
"I took some flak kind of joking around at the Super Bowl saying that I was going to run out onto the field and tackle somebody if this guy breaks it," Flacco said Thursday night. "I caught some flak for that; that's exactly what he just did. He was looking at the big screen the whole entire time. He knew where he was. He knew where Jacoby was. He pulled my move."
Read more: NFL to review Mike Tomlin sideline play for potential discipline - baltimoresun-com
The play Thursday night, which wasn't penalized, will be reviewed over the next week under the NFL's standard procedures.
Tomlin nearly collided with Jones during the third quarter on a 73-yard kickoff return before getting out of the way at the last moment, triggering controversy during the Ravens' 22-20 victory at M&T Bank Stadium.
Afterward, Tomlin said he didn't believe he interfered with Jones.
"I always watch the returns on the Jumbotron," Tomlin said. "It provides better perspective for me. I lost my placement as he broke free and saw at the last second how close I was to the field of play. ...
"I do it quite often, like everybody else in the National Football League. I was wrong. I accept responsibility for it."
After the Super Bowl, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco said he jokingly suggested to teammates that they should run out and tackle San Francisco 49ers kick returner Ted Ginn Jr. during the last play of the game.
"I took some flak kind of joking around at the Super Bowl saying that I was going to run out onto the field and tackle somebody if this guy breaks it," Flacco said Thursday night. "I caught some flak for that; that's exactly what he just did. He was looking at the big screen the whole entire time. He knew where he was. He knew where Jacoby was. He pulled my move."
Read more: NFL to review Mike Tomlin sideline play for potential discipline - baltimoresun-com
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Browns QB Brandon Weeden diagnosed with concussion after game
Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden threw for 370 yards and three touchdowns on Sunday and he did that despite playing at least part of the game with a concussion. It's not clear when Weeden suffered the concussion, but he told the team after the game that he was suffering from concussion like symptoms, according to Cleveland-com. Weeden was only starting against Jacksonville because last week's starter, Jason Campbell, suffered a concussion of his own against Pittsburgh. If Weeden and Campbell don't get better quickly, the Browns could be forced to start Alex Tanney next week against New England. Tanney was signed from the Cowboys practice squad on Nov. 26 and is the only other quarterback on the roster.
Vikings QB Christian Ponder leaves game after suffering concussion
Brandon Weeden wasn't the only quarterback to suffer a concussion on Sunday, Christian Ponder suffered one too. Ponder left the game after being sandwiched by Chicago's Shea McClellin and James Anderson in the second quarter. After Ponder's injury, Matt Cassel entered the game and led the Vikings to a 23-20 overtime win over the Bears. Coach Leslie Frazier was non-committal about who the starter would be next week in Baltimore. "It's great that Matt came in and did the things he did," Frazier said. "We'll sit down on Monday and talk about where we are and figure out where Christian is, health-wise, over the course of the week."
Titans TE Delanie Walker suffers concussion
In Tennessee's Week 11 loss to Indianapolis, Titans tight end Delanie Walker was one of the team's biggest weapons, catching 10 passes for 91 yards and a touchdown. During the rematch on Sunday, Walker didn't close to those numbers thanks to a concussion he suffered early in the game. Walker hit his head on the ground in the first quarter and didn't return to the game. Walker finished the game with one catch for five yards in his very limited action.
Rams Jake Long OL Jake Long leaves with concussion
Concussions were everywhere in the NFL on Sunday, including in San Francisco. Rams left tackle Jake Long suffered a concussion in the third quarter against the 49ers and had to leave the game for good. Coach Jeff Fisher said after the game that Long would undergo the standard concussion protocol and then the team would go from there.
Chiefs OL Brandon Albert carted off field with knee injury
Kansas City lost left tackle Brandon Albert during the fourth quarter against the Broncos. Albert was carted to the locker room after injuring his knee on a pass play where he was blocking Denver linebacker Von Miller. The Chiefs also lost tight end Anthony Fasano to a concussion.
49ers OL Joe Staley injures knee on first offensive possession
It was a rough day for left tackles, besides Albert and Long, 49ers left tackle Joe Staley also sustained an injury. Staley was injured on San Francisco's first offensive possession against St. Louis. The 49ers tackle hurt his right knee while blocking for Frank Gore on a running play. Staley was able to walk to the locker room under his own power, however, he was ruled out by the 49ers almost immediately.
Buccaneers CB Darrelle Revis injures chest after near-interception
It wasn't a great day for Tampa Bay cornerback Darrelle Revis. In the third quarter of the Buccaneers 27-6 loss to Carolina, Revis was burned for by Panthers wide receiver Tedd Ginn for a 36-yard touchdown. On Carolina's next offensive series, Revis dropped an interception and suffered a chest injury on the play. Revis didn't return to the game. Coach Greg Schiano didn't have much of an update on Revis' condition after the game, "I don't know much more. He didn't return, as you saw," Schiano said, via TampaBay-com.
Josh Cribbs injures shoulder vs. Dolphins
Jets kick returner Josh Cribbs injured his shoulder against the Dolphins in the first half and didn't return to the game. Cribbs serves as the Jets primary kick returner, however, he didn't get to return any kicks in New York's 23-3 loss to Miami.
NFL Week 13 Injury Roundup: Brandon Weeden suffers concussion - CBSSports-com
Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden threw for 370 yards and three touchdowns on Sunday and he did that despite playing at least part of the game with a concussion. It's not clear when Weeden suffered the concussion, but he told the team after the game that he was suffering from concussion like symptoms, according to Cleveland-com. Weeden was only starting against Jacksonville because last week's starter, Jason Campbell, suffered a concussion of his own against Pittsburgh. If Weeden and Campbell don't get better quickly, the Browns could be forced to start Alex Tanney next week against New England. Tanney was signed from the Cowboys practice squad on Nov. 26 and is the only other quarterback on the roster.
Vikings QB Christian Ponder leaves game after suffering concussion
Brandon Weeden wasn't the only quarterback to suffer a concussion on Sunday, Christian Ponder suffered one too. Ponder left the game after being sandwiched by Chicago's Shea McClellin and James Anderson in the second quarter. After Ponder's injury, Matt Cassel entered the game and led the Vikings to a 23-20 overtime win over the Bears. Coach Leslie Frazier was non-committal about who the starter would be next week in Baltimore. "It's great that Matt came in and did the things he did," Frazier said. "We'll sit down on Monday and talk about where we are and figure out where Christian is, health-wise, over the course of the week."
Titans TE Delanie Walker suffers concussion
In Tennessee's Week 11 loss to Indianapolis, Titans tight end Delanie Walker was one of the team's biggest weapons, catching 10 passes for 91 yards and a touchdown. During the rematch on Sunday, Walker didn't close to those numbers thanks to a concussion he suffered early in the game. Walker hit his head on the ground in the first quarter and didn't return to the game. Walker finished the game with one catch for five yards in his very limited action.
Rams Jake Long OL Jake Long leaves with concussion
Concussions were everywhere in the NFL on Sunday, including in San Francisco. Rams left tackle Jake Long suffered a concussion in the third quarter against the 49ers and had to leave the game for good. Coach Jeff Fisher said after the game that Long would undergo the standard concussion protocol and then the team would go from there.
Chiefs OL Brandon Albert carted off field with knee injury
Kansas City lost left tackle Brandon Albert during the fourth quarter against the Broncos. Albert was carted to the locker room after injuring his knee on a pass play where he was blocking Denver linebacker Von Miller. The Chiefs also lost tight end Anthony Fasano to a concussion.
49ers OL Joe Staley injures knee on first offensive possession
It was a rough day for left tackles, besides Albert and Long, 49ers left tackle Joe Staley also sustained an injury. Staley was injured on San Francisco's first offensive possession against St. Louis. The 49ers tackle hurt his right knee while blocking for Frank Gore on a running play. Staley was able to walk to the locker room under his own power, however, he was ruled out by the 49ers almost immediately.
Buccaneers CB Darrelle Revis injures chest after near-interception
It wasn't a great day for Tampa Bay cornerback Darrelle Revis. In the third quarter of the Buccaneers 27-6 loss to Carolina, Revis was burned for by Panthers wide receiver Tedd Ginn for a 36-yard touchdown. On Carolina's next offensive series, Revis dropped an interception and suffered a chest injury on the play. Revis didn't return to the game. Coach Greg Schiano didn't have much of an update on Revis' condition after the game, "I don't know much more. He didn't return, as you saw," Schiano said, via TampaBay-com.
Josh Cribbs injures shoulder vs. Dolphins
Jets kick returner Josh Cribbs injured his shoulder against the Dolphins in the first half and didn't return to the game. Cribbs serves as the Jets primary kick returner, however, he didn't get to return any kicks in New York's 23-3 loss to Miami.
NFL Week 13 Injury Roundup: Brandon Weeden suffers concussion - CBSSports-com
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Citing "obvious confusion as to the status of the down," NFL vice president of officiating Dean Blandino said in a statement Monday that referee Jeff Triplette and his crew erred on multiple fronts during the Washington Redskins' final drive against the New York Giants on Sunday night.
The ball was correctly spotted shy of the Washington 46-yard line after a 4-yard completion from Robert Griffin III to Pierre Garcon, Blandino said, bringing up third-and-1 with a little less than 2 minutes remaining in a game the Giants led and eventually won 24-17.
But head linesman Phil McKinnely "incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains" instead of waiting for the first-down signal from Triplette, who should have stopped the game to communicate the correct down and distance prior to the third-down play.
Triplette later told a pool reporter he didn't stop the game because the Redskins were out of timeouts and a stoppage would have given them an unfair advantage.
"In this situation where there is obvious confusion as to the status of the down, play should have been stopped prior to third down and the correct down communicated to both clubs," Blandino said in the statement. "This should have occurred regardless of the fact that Washington had no timeouts and it was inside two minutes."
The replay official didn't stop the game either because he "determined that the ball on Garcon's catch was correctly spotted short of the line to gain for a first down," Blandino said.
Thinking it was first-and-10, the Redskins threw incomplete down the field, then threw again on fourth-and-1 after the chains were reset. Garcon caught a pass beyond the first-down marker but was stripped by Giants safety Will Hill, sealing the decision with 1:18 to go.
Here is Blandino's statement in its entirety:
"With 2:00 remaining in the fourth quarter of Sunday night's game between the New York Giants and Washington Redskins, Washington faced a second-and-5 from its own 41-yard line with no timeouts remaining. Quarterback Robert Griffin III completed a pass to wide receiver Pierre Garcon for four yards. The ball was correctly spotted shy of the Washington 46, bringing up third down.
"Referee Jeff Triplette signaled third down but the head linesman — with Washington in a 'hurry-up' situation — incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains, which caused the down boxes to read first down.
"Following a Washington incomplete pass, the chains were moved back and the down boxes correctly reset to fourth down.
"In this situation where there is obvious confusion as to the status of the down, play should have been stopped prior to third down and the correct down communicated to both clubs. This should have occurred regardless of the fact that Washington had no timeouts and it was inside two minutes.
"Only the referee can rule and signal a first down. The official nearest to the down markers and chain crew, the head linesman, must wait for the first down signal from the referee before moving the chains. "Instant Replay did not become involved in this situation because the replay official determined that the ball on Garcon's catch was correctly spotted short of the line to gain for a first down."
NFL: Officials botched end of Redskins-Giants game
The ball was correctly spotted shy of the Washington 46-yard line after a 4-yard completion from Robert Griffin III to Pierre Garcon, Blandino said, bringing up third-and-1 with a little less than 2 minutes remaining in a game the Giants led and eventually won 24-17.
But head linesman Phil McKinnely "incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains" instead of waiting for the first-down signal from Triplette, who should have stopped the game to communicate the correct down and distance prior to the third-down play.
Triplette later told a pool reporter he didn't stop the game because the Redskins were out of timeouts and a stoppage would have given them an unfair advantage.
"In this situation where there is obvious confusion as to the status of the down, play should have been stopped prior to third down and the correct down communicated to both clubs," Blandino said in the statement. "This should have occurred regardless of the fact that Washington had no timeouts and it was inside two minutes."
The replay official didn't stop the game either because he "determined that the ball on Garcon's catch was correctly spotted short of the line to gain for a first down," Blandino said.
Thinking it was first-and-10, the Redskins threw incomplete down the field, then threw again on fourth-and-1 after the chains were reset. Garcon caught a pass beyond the first-down marker but was stripped by Giants safety Will Hill, sealing the decision with 1:18 to go.
Here is Blandino's statement in its entirety:
"With 2:00 remaining in the fourth quarter of Sunday night's game between the New York Giants and Washington Redskins, Washington faced a second-and-5 from its own 41-yard line with no timeouts remaining. Quarterback Robert Griffin III completed a pass to wide receiver Pierre Garcon for four yards. The ball was correctly spotted shy of the Washington 46, bringing up third down.
"Referee Jeff Triplette signaled third down but the head linesman — with Washington in a 'hurry-up' situation — incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains, which caused the down boxes to read first down.
"Following a Washington incomplete pass, the chains were moved back and the down boxes correctly reset to fourth down.
"In this situation where there is obvious confusion as to the status of the down, play should have been stopped prior to third down and the correct down communicated to both clubs. This should have occurred regardless of the fact that Washington had no timeouts and it was inside two minutes.
"Only the referee can rule and signal a first down. The official nearest to the down markers and chain crew, the head linesman, must wait for the first down signal from the referee before moving the chains. "Instant Replay did not become involved in this situation because the replay official determined that the ball on Garcon's catch was correctly spotted short of the line to gain for a first down."
NFL: Officials botched end of Redskins-Giants game
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With a month to go in the season, there is little doubt about the two top teams in the Daily News NFL Power Rankings. The Seahawks and Broncos won huge games over the weekend to separate themselves as the two Super Bowl favorites, each with a clear road to clinching home field advantage.
It’s also clear who the next two teams should be with the Panthers, on an eight-game winning streak, moving into third and the Patriots, who just seem to win, at No. 4. We’ve elevated the Niners two spots to No. 5, ahead of the Saints and Chiefs, who fell to the Big Two.
Meanwhile, the Jets took the biggest fall of all. Their inept offense has them at No. 27, nine spots lower than the previous week. The Giants stayed at No. 19, amid a bunch of interchangeable teams. One other thing to note is that we’ve moved the two NFC East leaders, the Cowboys and Eagles, up to 10th and 11th.
1. (Last Week - 1) Seahawks (11-1): Imagine how loud it will get for an NFC Championship Game.
2. (2) Broncos (10-2): Peyton is now 11-1 lifetime vs. Chiefs.
3. (4) Panthers (9-3): Eight straight wins heading into New Orleans.
4. (5) Patriots (9-3): Tom Brady bails them out again.
5. (7) 49ers (8-4): Anquan Boldin keeps stepping up.
6. (3) Saints (9-3): Just a .500 team on the road – and they could be a wild card.
7. (6) Chiefs (9-3): Back as a second tier team.
8. (9) Bengals (8-4): Marvin Lewis: “We thrive on grit.”
9. (11) Lions (7-5): No excuse for losing the division now.
10. (12) Cowboys (7-5): Why does it feel it’s going to come down to the last game vs. Eagles?
11. (14) Eagles (7-5): Foles: 236 passes without an interception. To compare, Eli had 15 by then.
12. (8) Cardinals (7-5): Got sloppy in Philly.
13. (10) Colts (8-4): They stop the skid but not the concerns.
14. (15) Ravens (6-6): Starting to play more like defending champs.
15. (21) Dolphins (6-6): They revel in the Jets’ misery.
16. (13) Bears (6-6): Late collapse vs. Vikes may cost them the playoffs.
17. (16) Rams (5-7): Not quite ready for the Niners in that spot.
18. (17) Chargers (5-7): Playoff talk can end now.
19. (19) Giants (5-7): They will never quit on Tom.
20. (22) Titans (5-7): Blew it late again, have now lost 18 of last 22 vs. Colts
21. (23) Steelers (5-7): Like Tiger Woods, Mike Tomlin being “cavalier” with the rules.
22. (20) Packers (5-6-1): Timetable for Rodgers return still uncertain but time is running out.
23. (28) Vikings (3-8-1): Matt Cassel to the rescue again.
24. (24) Browns (4-8): QB injuries have simply killed them this year.
25. (26) Raiders (4-8): Matt McGloin giving them something to think about.
26. (25) Bills (4-8): Oh, Canada. Probably would have won if they played at the Ralph.
27. (18) Jets (5-7): There is no worse offense in the league right now.
28. (27) Bucs (3-9): Schiano’s job saved, they can go back to being bad.
29. (30) Jaguars (3-9): Hottest team in the AFC.
30. (31) Falcons (3-9): At last, a pulse.
31. (29) Redskins (3-9): Amazing how undisciplined they’ve become. Shanahan may have to go.
32. (32) Texans (2-10): Jags-Texans on Thursday night.
Read more: NFL Power Rankings: Seahawks and Broncos on course for Super Bowl showdown - NY Daily News
It’s also clear who the next two teams should be with the Panthers, on an eight-game winning streak, moving into third and the Patriots, who just seem to win, at No. 4. We’ve elevated the Niners two spots to No. 5, ahead of the Saints and Chiefs, who fell to the Big Two.
Meanwhile, the Jets took the biggest fall of all. Their inept offense has them at No. 27, nine spots lower than the previous week. The Giants stayed at No. 19, amid a bunch of interchangeable teams. One other thing to note is that we’ve moved the two NFC East leaders, the Cowboys and Eagles, up to 10th and 11th.
1. (Last Week - 1) Seahawks (11-1): Imagine how loud it will get for an NFC Championship Game.
2. (2) Broncos (10-2): Peyton is now 11-1 lifetime vs. Chiefs.
3. (4) Panthers (9-3): Eight straight wins heading into New Orleans.
4. (5) Patriots (9-3): Tom Brady bails them out again.
5. (7) 49ers (8-4): Anquan Boldin keeps stepping up.
6. (3) Saints (9-3): Just a .500 team on the road – and they could be a wild card.
7. (6) Chiefs (9-3): Back as a second tier team.
8. (9) Bengals (8-4): Marvin Lewis: “We thrive on grit.”
9. (11) Lions (7-5): No excuse for losing the division now.
10. (12) Cowboys (7-5): Why does it feel it’s going to come down to the last game vs. Eagles?
11. (14) Eagles (7-5): Foles: 236 passes without an interception. To compare, Eli had 15 by then.
12. (8) Cardinals (7-5): Got sloppy in Philly.
13. (10) Colts (8-4): They stop the skid but not the concerns.
14. (15) Ravens (6-6): Starting to play more like defending champs.
15. (21) Dolphins (6-6): They revel in the Jets’ misery.
16. (13) Bears (6-6): Late collapse vs. Vikes may cost them the playoffs.
17. (16) Rams (5-7): Not quite ready for the Niners in that spot.
18. (17) Chargers (5-7): Playoff talk can end now.
19. (19) Giants (5-7): They will never quit on Tom.
20. (22) Titans (5-7): Blew it late again, have now lost 18 of last 22 vs. Colts
21. (23) Steelers (5-7): Like Tiger Woods, Mike Tomlin being “cavalier” with the rules.
22. (20) Packers (5-6-1): Timetable for Rodgers return still uncertain but time is running out.
23. (28) Vikings (3-8-1): Matt Cassel to the rescue again.
24. (24) Browns (4-8): QB injuries have simply killed them this year.
25. (26) Raiders (4-8): Matt McGloin giving them something to think about.
26. (25) Bills (4-8): Oh, Canada. Probably would have won if they played at the Ralph.
27. (18) Jets (5-7): There is no worse offense in the league right now.
28. (27) Bucs (3-9): Schiano’s job saved, they can go back to being bad.
29. (30) Jaguars (3-9): Hottest team in the AFC.
30. (31) Falcons (3-9): At last, a pulse.
31. (29) Redskins (3-9): Amazing how undisciplined they’ve become. Shanahan may have to go.
32. (32) Texans (2-10): Jags-Texans on Thursday night.
Read more: NFL Power Rankings: Seahawks and Broncos on course for Super Bowl showdown - NY Daily News
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Add Lions running back Reggie Bush's name to the list of players who think Thursday Night Football is a terrible idea. The NFL has championed safety for much of commissioner Roger Goodell's tenure but the league doesn't think having teams play on just three day's rest is a problem.
(The NFL will tell you that there is no evidence to support the claim that Thursday games lead to more injuries; many players would disagree.)
“I'm not a huge fan of it,” Bush said, according to CBS Detroit. “We don't get a lot of time for our bodies to recover. Football games -- I always try to relate them to for the average person -- it's just like being in a car crash. Like literally every time you're getting hit is like being in a car crash. Imagine as a running back you're getting hit -- I touched the ball at least 20 to 30 times a game, that's 20 to 30 car crashes you're in in two hours. It's tough to get your body back ready that quick for a game on Thursday.”
Several months ago, 49ers wideout Anquan Boldin sounded a similar tone: "I mean if [the NFL is] so concerned about player safety, then why do you have every team in the league playing on Thursday night when they just competed on a Sunday, knowing how difficult it is for guys to get back to being healthy after playing on Sunday?"
And earlier this week, Texans tackle Duane Brown told MMQB's Robert Klemko, “You talk about player safety, but you want to extend the season and add Thursday games? It's talking out of both sides of your mouth.”
But the NFL has no plans of doing away with Thursday games, primarily because there are hundreds of millions of dollars at stake.
Here's how CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora explained it in October, when Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hinted that the NFL was considering Thursday night double-headers:
"Within a year or two, I strongly believe [the Thursday-night schedule will] go back to six or seven games after Thanksgiving on NFL Network, and [the NFL] will try to sell off that other package of six or seven to Turner, to NBC, to [CBS], to whomever, and pocket another $750 million," La Canfora sad. ... "And that's one way to get the salary cap up. Because ... the salary cap hasn't really moved since 2009, and this new TV money from the existing contracts probably won't start kicking in until 2015."
That's right, this all comes down to money. Shocking, we know.
Reggie Bush latest player against NFL games on Thursday - CBSSports-com
(The NFL will tell you that there is no evidence to support the claim that Thursday games lead to more injuries; many players would disagree.)
“I'm not a huge fan of it,” Bush said, according to CBS Detroit. “We don't get a lot of time for our bodies to recover. Football games -- I always try to relate them to for the average person -- it's just like being in a car crash. Like literally every time you're getting hit is like being in a car crash. Imagine as a running back you're getting hit -- I touched the ball at least 20 to 30 times a game, that's 20 to 30 car crashes you're in in two hours. It's tough to get your body back ready that quick for a game on Thursday.”
Several months ago, 49ers wideout Anquan Boldin sounded a similar tone: "I mean if [the NFL is] so concerned about player safety, then why do you have every team in the league playing on Thursday night when they just competed on a Sunday, knowing how difficult it is for guys to get back to being healthy after playing on Sunday?"
And earlier this week, Texans tackle Duane Brown told MMQB's Robert Klemko, “You talk about player safety, but you want to extend the season and add Thursday games? It's talking out of both sides of your mouth.”
But the NFL has no plans of doing away with Thursday games, primarily because there are hundreds of millions of dollars at stake.
Here's how CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora explained it in October, when Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hinted that the NFL was considering Thursday night double-headers:
"Within a year or two, I strongly believe [the Thursday-night schedule will] go back to six or seven games after Thanksgiving on NFL Network, and [the NFL] will try to sell off that other package of six or seven to Turner, to NBC, to [CBS], to whomever, and pocket another $750 million," La Canfora sad. ... "And that's one way to get the salary cap up. Because ... the salary cap hasn't really moved since 2009, and this new TV money from the existing contracts probably won't start kicking in until 2015."
That's right, this all comes down to money. Shocking, we know.
Reggie Bush latest player against NFL games on Thursday - CBSSports-com
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Miami Dolphins tackle Jonathan Martin met Thursday in Los Angeles with NFL special investigator Ted Wells for a second round of questioning about the team's bullying scandal, a person familiar with the situation said.
The person confirmed the meeting to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.
Martin was first interviewed by Wells for nearly seven hours Nov. 15 in New York. Wells then spent the week of Nov. 18 interviewing Dolphins players, coaches and staff in South Florida, and also met with suspended guard Richie Incognito.
Wells is expected to meet again with some Dolphins players before issuing a report. Martin alleges he was harassed daily by teammates, including Incognito, who has been suspended since Nov. 3.
Martin, a second-year pro from Stanford, has been with family in California undergoing counseling for emotional issues. Last week the Dolphins put him on the reserve/non-football illness list, ending his season.
When Martin abruptly left the team Oct. 28, the Dolphins had lost four consecutive games to fall to 3-4, and the scandal threatened to sink their season. But they're now 6-6 and in contention for an AFC wild-card berth going into Sunday's game at Pittsburgh.
Wells will determine the role of Coach Joe Philbin, his staff and Dolphins management in the case, which inspired a national debate about workplace bullying.
Chicago's Cutler, Briggs out for Monday
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler and linebacker Lance Briggs will miss Monday night's home game against Dallas.
Coach Marc Trestman on Thursday said Cutler remains out with a high ankle sprain and Briggs will not return from a shoulder fracture. Cutler practiced on a limited basis Thursday. Briggs went through conditioning work on the sidelines but did not practice.
Josh McCown will make his fifth start in Cutler's absence, and Trestman couldn't be certain whether Cutler would be available the following week at Cleveland.
"From the work today, it just looks like he's progressing," Trestman said of Cutler. "I haven't talked to him specifically about it, but he seemed to work through the practice very well. He did the things that the trainers have asked him to do, but didn't overdo it."
Cutler has been out with the ankle sprain since the final series of the Bears' 21-19 loss to the Detroit Lions on Nov. 10.
Cleveland's Campbell could start Sunday
Cleveland Browns quarterback Jason Campbell practiced for the first time since suffering a concussion and could start Sunday at New England.
Campbell returned to the field Thursday, the next step in his recovery from a head injury sustained Nov. 24 when he was hurt on a blindside hit by Pittsburgh's William Gay. Campbell must still be cleared by an independent neurologist — per NFL rules — before he is allowed to play against the Patriots.
Patriots re-sign Collie
The New England Patriots have re-signed wide receiver Austin Collie.
Collie played four games this season before being released after hurting his knee in a 55-31 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Nov. 3. He had three catches after signing with the Patriots as a free agent Oct. 3. Two of those came on the winning drive in a 30-27 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Jets' Kerley set to play
New York Jets wide receiver Jeremy Kerley fully participated in practice for the first time since dislocating his left elbow last month and is expected to play Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.
Kerley was injured against New Orleans on Nov. 3 when he was on the ground and the Saints' David Hawthorne slammed into his elbow. Coach Rex Ryan said Thursday that Kerley "looked outstanding" in practice. Kerley leads the Jets with 28 catches, despite missing four games this season.
Jonathan Martin reportedly meets again with NFL special investigator - latimes-com
The person confirmed the meeting to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.
Martin was first interviewed by Wells for nearly seven hours Nov. 15 in New York. Wells then spent the week of Nov. 18 interviewing Dolphins players, coaches and staff in South Florida, and also met with suspended guard Richie Incognito.
Wells is expected to meet again with some Dolphins players before issuing a report. Martin alleges he was harassed daily by teammates, including Incognito, who has been suspended since Nov. 3.
Martin, a second-year pro from Stanford, has been with family in California undergoing counseling for emotional issues. Last week the Dolphins put him on the reserve/non-football illness list, ending his season.
When Martin abruptly left the team Oct. 28, the Dolphins had lost four consecutive games to fall to 3-4, and the scandal threatened to sink their season. But they're now 6-6 and in contention for an AFC wild-card berth going into Sunday's game at Pittsburgh.
Wells will determine the role of Coach Joe Philbin, his staff and Dolphins management in the case, which inspired a national debate about workplace bullying.
Chicago's Cutler, Briggs out for Monday
Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler and linebacker Lance Briggs will miss Monday night's home game against Dallas.
Coach Marc Trestman on Thursday said Cutler remains out with a high ankle sprain and Briggs will not return from a shoulder fracture. Cutler practiced on a limited basis Thursday. Briggs went through conditioning work on the sidelines but did not practice.
Josh McCown will make his fifth start in Cutler's absence, and Trestman couldn't be certain whether Cutler would be available the following week at Cleveland.
"From the work today, it just looks like he's progressing," Trestman said of Cutler. "I haven't talked to him specifically about it, but he seemed to work through the practice very well. He did the things that the trainers have asked him to do, but didn't overdo it."
Cutler has been out with the ankle sprain since the final series of the Bears' 21-19 loss to the Detroit Lions on Nov. 10.
Cleveland's Campbell could start Sunday
Cleveland Browns quarterback Jason Campbell practiced for the first time since suffering a concussion and could start Sunday at New England.
Campbell returned to the field Thursday, the next step in his recovery from a head injury sustained Nov. 24 when he was hurt on a blindside hit by Pittsburgh's William Gay. Campbell must still be cleared by an independent neurologist — per NFL rules — before he is allowed to play against the Patriots.
Patriots re-sign Collie
The New England Patriots have re-signed wide receiver Austin Collie.
Collie played four games this season before being released after hurting his knee in a 55-31 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Nov. 3. He had three catches after signing with the Patriots as a free agent Oct. 3. Two of those came on the winning drive in a 30-27 win over the New Orleans Saints.
Jets' Kerley set to play
New York Jets wide receiver Jeremy Kerley fully participated in practice for the first time since dislocating his left elbow last month and is expected to play Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.
Kerley was injured against New Orleans on Nov. 3 when he was on the ground and the Saints' David Hawthorne slammed into his elbow. Coach Rex Ryan said Thursday that Kerley "looked outstanding" in practice. Kerley leads the Jets with 28 catches, despite missing four games this season.
Jonathan Martin reportedly meets again with NFL special investigator - latimes-com
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Notre Dame tackle Louis Nix has reportedly signed with a NFL agent today thus forgoing a potential 5th year of eligibility and will be headed to the NFL as many have expected all season long.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Nix signed with agents Todd France and Brian Ayrault on Friday making him eligible for the 2014 NFL Draft. Since many media tend to report that players in Nix’s situation – a 4th year senior with a year of eligibility – is “leaving early” it should be noted that Nix will have completed his undergraduate degree by the end of the fall semester and is not leaving early. Rather, Nix has reportedly decided – wisely many would suggest – to head to the NFL as a likely top 10 pick with a degree from the University of Notre Dame in hand.
Nix, a fan favorite among the Fighting Irish faithful since committing to Notre Dame while the Irish didn’t have a coach following the firing of Charlie Weis, hinted to his followers on Instagram on Thursday night that he was leaving Notre Dame with an ominous picture.
Nix made it official less than 24 hours later and it should come as no surprise to anyone that he is headed to the NFL following his senior season. Nix has a degree in hand and is a projected top 10 pick on almost every mock draft there is as the top nose tackle in the draft. The only reason for Nix to come back would have been for a chance at another title run, but given the money involved with being a top 10 pick, the risk of injury by bypassing the NFL a second time wouldn’t make sense for any potential top 10 pick in his situation.
Nix has missed four games this season with a knee injury that will cost him Notre Dame’s bowl game as well. Originally injured against USC, Nix sat out the Air Force and Navy games before giving it everything he had against Pitt only to be shut down for the season following Notre Dame’s disappointing loss to the Panthers.
A year ago Nix made the decision to come to Notre Dame for a senior season when many projected him as a first round pick albeit outside of the top 10. Brian Kelly pulled off one of his better recruiting jobs, however, and Nix returned for a senior season along with Zack Martin who also had a chance to leave for the NFL but came back for one more season.
Nix’s departure leaves a huge hole – literally – in the middle of the Notre Dame defensive front – a hole that no one man will be able to completely fill because 350 lbs mammoth linemen are few and far between. Luckily for Notre Dame, Jarron Jones began to emerge at the end of the 2013 season and has shown promise as a potential replacement. Tony Springmann will also return for the Irish in 2014 after missing the entire 2013 season due to injury.
Louis Nix has been a joy to watch grow on and off the field for Notre Dame over the last four years and it’ll be a long, long time before Notre Dame has another player like Louis Nix. Irish fans everywhere were holding out the slim hope that Nix may return for a 5th year, but he is making the right decision here. Hopefully for Big Lou and Notre Dame, Irish Chocolate has a bright career ahead of him in the NFL – Notre Dame could certainly use some current defensive stars in the NFL to point to as Brian Kelly and his staff attempt to reel in the next line of Irish stars on the recruiting trail.
Report: Louis Nix Headed to NFL - Notre Dame Football | UHND-com
According to the Chicago Tribune, Nix signed with agents Todd France and Brian Ayrault on Friday making him eligible for the 2014 NFL Draft. Since many media tend to report that players in Nix’s situation – a 4th year senior with a year of eligibility – is “leaving early” it should be noted that Nix will have completed his undergraduate degree by the end of the fall semester and is not leaving early. Rather, Nix has reportedly decided – wisely many would suggest – to head to the NFL as a likely top 10 pick with a degree from the University of Notre Dame in hand.
Nix, a fan favorite among the Fighting Irish faithful since committing to Notre Dame while the Irish didn’t have a coach following the firing of Charlie Weis, hinted to his followers on Instagram on Thursday night that he was leaving Notre Dame with an ominous picture.
Nix made it official less than 24 hours later and it should come as no surprise to anyone that he is headed to the NFL following his senior season. Nix has a degree in hand and is a projected top 10 pick on almost every mock draft there is as the top nose tackle in the draft. The only reason for Nix to come back would have been for a chance at another title run, but given the money involved with being a top 10 pick, the risk of injury by bypassing the NFL a second time wouldn’t make sense for any potential top 10 pick in his situation.
Nix has missed four games this season with a knee injury that will cost him Notre Dame’s bowl game as well. Originally injured against USC, Nix sat out the Air Force and Navy games before giving it everything he had against Pitt only to be shut down for the season following Notre Dame’s disappointing loss to the Panthers.
A year ago Nix made the decision to come to Notre Dame for a senior season when many projected him as a first round pick albeit outside of the top 10. Brian Kelly pulled off one of his better recruiting jobs, however, and Nix returned for a senior season along with Zack Martin who also had a chance to leave for the NFL but came back for one more season.
Nix’s departure leaves a huge hole – literally – in the middle of the Notre Dame defensive front – a hole that no one man will be able to completely fill because 350 lbs mammoth linemen are few and far between. Luckily for Notre Dame, Jarron Jones began to emerge at the end of the 2013 season and has shown promise as a potential replacement. Tony Springmann will also return for the Irish in 2014 after missing the entire 2013 season due to injury.
Louis Nix has been a joy to watch grow on and off the field for Notre Dame over the last four years and it’ll be a long, long time before Notre Dame has another player like Louis Nix. Irish fans everywhere were holding out the slim hope that Nix may return for a 5th year, but he is making the right decision here. Hopefully for Big Lou and Notre Dame, Irish Chocolate has a bright career ahead of him in the NFL – Notre Dame could certainly use some current defensive stars in the NFL to point to as Brian Kelly and his staff attempt to reel in the next line of Irish stars on the recruiting trail.
Report: Louis Nix Headed to NFL - Notre Dame Football | UHND-com
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There were 253 players selected in the 2012 NFL draft, including 30 linebackers, and Cincinnati Bengals second-year starter Vontaze Burfict wasn't one of them.
Now, he's leading the NFL in tackles and becoming one of the NFL's next dominant linebackers.
Every NFL team had a number of chances to select the former Arizona State All-American, but nobody pulled the trigger because of "character concerns." These issues were widely documented by every print publication, website, radio station and television program out there.
In case you've forgotten, here's a quick rundown of the good, bad and ugly of Burfict's stock plummeting before the 2012 draft.
The Good
Just after the 2011 season ended, Todd McShay of Scouts Inc. (via ESPN's Ted Miller) moved Burfict from No. 15 to No. 21 on his big board.
Questions about Burfict's on-field maturity and mental makeup have hurt his stock, but he's a physically gifted player with the tools of a top-10 prospect. He has the power to deliver heavy blows and solid range and awareness in underneath coverage.
At that point, McShay still considered Burfict a first-round pick, but it was the next few months leading up to the draft where things really started to fall apart.
The Bad
"I talked to some teams, and I told them I had smoked marijuana before," Burfict told NFL-com. "It's not like I'm the only person that has ever done that."
This was a red flag for teams, as the whole "everyone else is doing it" excuse indicated there was a lack of accountability for his decisions and actions.
The Ugly
Burfict told NFL-com:
The coaches (at Arizona State) kind of messed me up, like, I didn't know if I was going to start a game, I didn't know if I was going to be benched. So, it hurt me at times, but I tried to fight through it.
Coaches don't look fondly on players who throw others under the bus.
Combined with a poor showing at the combine and unfavorable reviews from a recently fired Arizona State coaching staff, Burfict was seen as a player without a future in the NFL.
Meet the NFL's Next Dominant Linebacker: Vontaze Burfict | Bleacher Report
Now, he's leading the NFL in tackles and becoming one of the NFL's next dominant linebackers.
Every NFL team had a number of chances to select the former Arizona State All-American, but nobody pulled the trigger because of "character concerns." These issues were widely documented by every print publication, website, radio station and television program out there.
In case you've forgotten, here's a quick rundown of the good, bad and ugly of Burfict's stock plummeting before the 2012 draft.
The Good
Just after the 2011 season ended, Todd McShay of Scouts Inc. (via ESPN's Ted Miller) moved Burfict from No. 15 to No. 21 on his big board.
Questions about Burfict's on-field maturity and mental makeup have hurt his stock, but he's a physically gifted player with the tools of a top-10 prospect. He has the power to deliver heavy blows and solid range and awareness in underneath coverage.
At that point, McShay still considered Burfict a first-round pick, but it was the next few months leading up to the draft where things really started to fall apart.
The Bad
"I talked to some teams, and I told them I had smoked marijuana before," Burfict told NFL-com. "It's not like I'm the only person that has ever done that."
This was a red flag for teams, as the whole "everyone else is doing it" excuse indicated there was a lack of accountability for his decisions and actions.
The Ugly
Burfict told NFL-com:
The coaches (at Arizona State) kind of messed me up, like, I didn't know if I was going to start a game, I didn't know if I was going to be benched. So, it hurt me at times, but I tried to fight through it.
Coaches don't look fondly on players who throw others under the bus.
Combined with a poor showing at the combine and unfavorable reviews from a recently fired Arizona State coaching staff, Burfict was seen as a player without a future in the NFL.
Meet the NFL's Next Dominant Linebacker: Vontaze Burfict | Bleacher Report
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There are few sports experiences better than watching football games in the snow, particularly when you’re curled up on the couch watching it on TV with a hot beverage by your side. It harkens back to childhood, when you’d bundle up in snow pants, jackets, hats and mittens and play in the backyard.
But for as great as it is for viewers, it’s equally frustrating. Just like in those backyard games of yore, you only have a loose grasp on what’s actually happening in snow games. The white-out conditions at NFL stadiums on Sunday, particularly in Philadelphia for the Lions-Eagles game, left viewers completely confused about distances, yard lines and field position. With snow covering the hashmarks and yardage numbers on the field, viewers and announcers were left to make educated guesses. Is it a first down? Did the player go out of bounds? Where’s the goal line?
Fox tried to combat the confusion with a new technology that allows the yardage numbers to be superimposed over the snow, sort of like a photo negative. But unlike the first down lines that seamlessly appear on the field, these numbers made players appear blurry when they walked over them, sort of like a weatherman standing in front of a cheap green screen.
But look on the bright side: At least you’re not playing. The Lions had five fumbles in the snow during the first 45 minutes of play.
NFL games in the snow are the best and worst things on television | For The Win
But for as great as it is for viewers, it’s equally frustrating. Just like in those backyard games of yore, you only have a loose grasp on what’s actually happening in snow games. The white-out conditions at NFL stadiums on Sunday, particularly in Philadelphia for the Lions-Eagles game, left viewers completely confused about distances, yard lines and field position. With snow covering the hashmarks and yardage numbers on the field, viewers and announcers were left to make educated guesses. Is it a first down? Did the player go out of bounds? Where’s the goal line?
Fox tried to combat the confusion with a new technology that allows the yardage numbers to be superimposed over the snow, sort of like a photo negative. But unlike the first down lines that seamlessly appear on the field, these numbers made players appear blurry when they walked over them, sort of like a weatherman standing in front of a cheap green screen.
But look on the bright side: At least you’re not playing. The Lions had five fumbles in the snow during the first 45 minutes of play.
NFL games in the snow are the best and worst things on television | For The Win
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Police say a Los Angeles man who placed prank calls about job vacancies for prominent professional coaches has been arrested.
Police spokeswoman Sally Madera says Kenneth Tarr was arrested Monday at his home in Hollywood and booked on suspicion of felony eavesdropping.
LA County jail records show the 32-year-old Tarr was being held on $20,000 bail.
Madera would give no further details on the calls or identify the victims, but LAPD Lt. Mark Reina told NBC news that the investigation ''includes coaches from across professional sports.''
Reina says San Bernardino County sheriff's detectives and NFL investigators are assisting in the continuing investigation.
Police did not know if Tarr had retained an attorney. A phone message left at a number listed in his name was not immediately returned.
Read More: Hollywood man arrested for pro coach prank calls - NFL - SI-com
Police spokeswoman Sally Madera says Kenneth Tarr was arrested Monday at his home in Hollywood and booked on suspicion of felony eavesdropping.
LA County jail records show the 32-year-old Tarr was being held on $20,000 bail.
Madera would give no further details on the calls or identify the victims, but LAPD Lt. Mark Reina told NBC news that the investigation ''includes coaches from across professional sports.''
Reina says San Bernardino County sheriff's detectives and NFL investigators are assisting in the continuing investigation.
Police did not know if Tarr had retained an attorney. A phone message left at a number listed in his name was not immediately returned.
Read More: Hollywood man arrested for pro coach prank calls - NFL - SI-com
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League investigator Ted Wells canceled follow-up meetings with Richie Incognito and other Miami Dolphins offensive linemen, NFL Media's Jeff Darlington reported Tuesday. Darlington cited multiple team sources, including players currently on the team.
Wells met recently with Dolphins offensive lineman Jonathan Martin for a second time, a follow-up to the seven-hour session Nov. 15 in New York.
Martin walked away from the Dolphins in late October. Shortly after, reports surfaced indicating that Martin allegedly was mistreated by Incognito. He was placed on the Miami Dolphins' non-football illness list last month.
Incognito was suspended by the Dolphins on Nov. 3 for conduct detrimental to the team after a threatening voice mail surfaced that contains Incognito using a racial slur.
Ted Wells cancels second visits with Incognito, other Dolphins - NFL-com
Wells met recently with Dolphins offensive lineman Jonathan Martin for a second time, a follow-up to the seven-hour session Nov. 15 in New York.
Martin walked away from the Dolphins in late October. Shortly after, reports surfaced indicating that Martin allegedly was mistreated by Incognito. He was placed on the Miami Dolphins' non-football illness list last month.
Incognito was suspended by the Dolphins on Nov. 3 for conduct detrimental to the team after a threatening voice mail surfaced that contains Incognito using a racial slur.
Ted Wells cancels second visits with Incognito, other Dolphins - NFL-com
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The NFL has confirmed that referee Jeff Triplette and his officiating crew made an on-field error for the second time in as many weeks Sunday in Cincinnati. NFL vice president of officiating Dean Blandino said Tuesday on NFL Network's "NFL Total Access" that Triplette's team made the incorrect call by awarding Bengals running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis with a 1-yard touchdown run following an official review in the Bengals' 42-28 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Replays showed that Colts defensive tackle Josh Chapman appeared to make contact with Green-Ellis' foot behind the line of scrimmage on the fourth-and-goal play, causing the running back to stumble to the turf. The original call marked Green-Ellis short of the goal line, turning over possession to the Colts.
The decision to overturn the call gave Cincinnati a 14-point lead heading into halftime.
"No, it wasn't the correct call," Blandino told NFL Media's Dan Hellie. "There was not enough evidence to overturn the ruling on the field."
Blandino said that Chapman "potentially" touched Green-Ellis on the foot, but there wasn't "indisputable visual evidence" to say the original call on the field was incorrect.
"That's the standard. When we look at these angles, it's close," Blandino said. "Don't think it's definitive either way. And when it's not definitive either way, that means the call on the field should stand. So we made a mistake here. This should not have been overturned."
Blandino added: "Ultimately, it's my job to make sure our referees apply this standard consistently throughout the season. So that's what we'll continue to work on."
Triplette's crew was also involved in controversy last week, when a miscommunication over the down led to confusion during the Washington Redskins' final possession in a loss to the New York Giants. Blandino confirmed that Triplette was wrong not to stop the game clock after head linesman Phil McKinnely incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains.
It continues a rough stretch for Triplette, who, like all officials, is graded on every play of every game.
NFL: BenJarvus Green-Ellis wrongly awarded score - NFL-com
Replays showed that Colts defensive tackle Josh Chapman appeared to make contact with Green-Ellis' foot behind the line of scrimmage on the fourth-and-goal play, causing the running back to stumble to the turf. The original call marked Green-Ellis short of the goal line, turning over possession to the Colts.
The decision to overturn the call gave Cincinnati a 14-point lead heading into halftime.
"No, it wasn't the correct call," Blandino told NFL Media's Dan Hellie. "There was not enough evidence to overturn the ruling on the field."
Blandino said that Chapman "potentially" touched Green-Ellis on the foot, but there wasn't "indisputable visual evidence" to say the original call on the field was incorrect.
"That's the standard. When we look at these angles, it's close," Blandino said. "Don't think it's definitive either way. And when it's not definitive either way, that means the call on the field should stand. So we made a mistake here. This should not have been overturned."
Blandino added: "Ultimately, it's my job to make sure our referees apply this standard consistently throughout the season. So that's what we'll continue to work on."
Triplette's crew was also involved in controversy last week, when a miscommunication over the down led to confusion during the Washington Redskins' final possession in a loss to the New York Giants. Blandino confirmed that Triplette was wrong not to stop the game clock after head linesman Phil McKinnely incorrectly motioned for the chain crew to advance the chains.
It continues a rough stretch for Triplette, who, like all officials, is graded on every play of every game.
NFL: BenJarvus Green-Ellis wrongly awarded score - NFL-com
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After spending three years at Texas A&M, the last two as the Aggies’ record-setting quarterback, Johnny Manziel believes he’s ready for the next level.
“In my mind, I think I am,” Manziel said Thursday, via the Fort Worth Star Telegram. “I feel like I’m playing, for the most part, at a really high level of football. I’m putting the ball where I want it to be and I’m throwing it with a lot of velocity.”
Whether he makes the leap after the Aggies’ Chick-fil-A Bowl matchup with Duke remains to be seen. In Lake Buena Vista, Fla., for the Home Depot College Football Awards Show – he’s up for the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award – Manziel called his decision “something I’m trying to push off for a while.”
As a third-year sophomore, Manziel is eligible for the 2014 draft. While opinion is slightly mixed on his NFL bona fides – with a handful of pundits questioning his size, others his maturity – the consensus is that Manziel would be taken somewhere in the first round, perhaps inside the top 10.
My guess: Manziel is gone, long gone, and let’s enjoy his final college game before he becomes property of the NFL. But is he really prepared for the next level? (Yes.) Would leaving two years of collegiate eligibility on the table be a mistake? (No.) Here’s why.
1. His stock will never be higher.
What does Manziel have left to prove? He won the Heisman Trophy last fall, the first redshirt freshman to do so, and then improved greatly as a sophomore. As a passer, Manziel showed better arm strength and nicer touch downfield at no cost to his on-the-fly inventiveness. While his interceptions were up slightly, Manziel averaged an additional yard per pass attempt – that adds up over 391 throws – and led the SEC in every major passing category. In terms of showing what he can achieve as a passer, Manziel has nothing left to prove.
2. He’s already cemented his legacy.
Manziel’s stature will only improve with time. Even today, however, with another game left in the 2013 season, it’s easy to include him among the most dynamic players in college football history. Take it from Duke coach David Cutcliffe, who coached both Peyton Manning and Eli Manning in college: Manziel is “the premier college football player of the last 25 years,” Cutcliffe said Thursday. He has a Heisman, is a two-time Heisman finalist, is an All-American, is beloved in most parts of Texas and will forever live in Texas A&M lore.
3. The NCAA is a nuisance.
Want to be your own man, make your own hours, do your own thing and roll out of bed Sunday and compete? Welcome to life in the NFL, Johnny, and don’t worry about the NCAA looming over your shoulder. He’s had his bouts with the governing body in the past – or vice versa, rather – over issues like the autograph scandal that hung over Manziel in August and September. Manziel might be the exception, as the sort of player who finds life easier in the NFL than the FBS.
4. The path has been paved.
There’s never been a better time for smaller quarterbacks. After a decade-plus of searching for the next Manning – the tall, stoic, statue-like pocket passer – the NFL has become more welcoming to quarterbacks without prototypical size and attributes. Think Russell Wilson, for example, or Drew Brees. After seeing how Wilson has overcome his smaller stature with a solid arm and top-notch leadership qualities, an NFL franchise may be more willing to gamble on a quarterback, like Manziel, who doesn’t impress in street clothes.
Johnny Manziel thinks he’s ready for the NFL. Is he right? | For The Win
“In my mind, I think I am,” Manziel said Thursday, via the Fort Worth Star Telegram. “I feel like I’m playing, for the most part, at a really high level of football. I’m putting the ball where I want it to be and I’m throwing it with a lot of velocity.”
Whether he makes the leap after the Aggies’ Chick-fil-A Bowl matchup with Duke remains to be seen. In Lake Buena Vista, Fla., for the Home Depot College Football Awards Show – he’s up for the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award – Manziel called his decision “something I’m trying to push off for a while.”
As a third-year sophomore, Manziel is eligible for the 2014 draft. While opinion is slightly mixed on his NFL bona fides – with a handful of pundits questioning his size, others his maturity – the consensus is that Manziel would be taken somewhere in the first round, perhaps inside the top 10.
My guess: Manziel is gone, long gone, and let’s enjoy his final college game before he becomes property of the NFL. But is he really prepared for the next level? (Yes.) Would leaving two years of collegiate eligibility on the table be a mistake? (No.) Here’s why.
1. His stock will never be higher.
What does Manziel have left to prove? He won the Heisman Trophy last fall, the first redshirt freshman to do so, and then improved greatly as a sophomore. As a passer, Manziel showed better arm strength and nicer touch downfield at no cost to his on-the-fly inventiveness. While his interceptions were up slightly, Manziel averaged an additional yard per pass attempt – that adds up over 391 throws – and led the SEC in every major passing category. In terms of showing what he can achieve as a passer, Manziel has nothing left to prove.
2. He’s already cemented his legacy.
Manziel’s stature will only improve with time. Even today, however, with another game left in the 2013 season, it’s easy to include him among the most dynamic players in college football history. Take it from Duke coach David Cutcliffe, who coached both Peyton Manning and Eli Manning in college: Manziel is “the premier college football player of the last 25 years,” Cutcliffe said Thursday. He has a Heisman, is a two-time Heisman finalist, is an All-American, is beloved in most parts of Texas and will forever live in Texas A&M lore.
3. The NCAA is a nuisance.
Want to be your own man, make your own hours, do your own thing and roll out of bed Sunday and compete? Welcome to life in the NFL, Johnny, and don’t worry about the NCAA looming over your shoulder. He’s had his bouts with the governing body in the past – or vice versa, rather – over issues like the autograph scandal that hung over Manziel in August and September. Manziel might be the exception, as the sort of player who finds life easier in the NFL than the FBS.
4. The path has been paved.
There’s never been a better time for smaller quarterbacks. After a decade-plus of searching for the next Manning – the tall, stoic, statue-like pocket passer – the NFL has become more welcoming to quarterbacks without prototypical size and attributes. Think Russell Wilson, for example, or Drew Brees. After seeing how Wilson has overcome his smaller stature with a solid arm and top-notch leadership qualities, an NFL franchise may be more willing to gamble on a quarterback, like Manziel, who doesn’t impress in street clothes.
Johnny Manziel thinks he’s ready for the NFL. Is he right? | For The Win
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2006/12/07
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Denver police have confirmed to NFL Media at least three people were stabbed in the Sports Authority Field at Mile High parking lot after the Denver Broncos' Thursday night loss to the San Diego Chargers.
There is a possible fourth victim who could not be located, according to Denver police spokesman Sgt. Steve Warneke.
The Denver Police Department's official Twitter account provided multiple updates on the stabbing. At 9:55 p.m., DPD responded to a large fight at Lot F of Sports Authority Field, near Dick Connor and Federal Boulevard. Three male victims with stabbing wounds were located. Two are in stable condition; one is critical.
Three suspects are in custody at this time, Warneke said, and Denver police do not believe there are any suspects at large. There are a great deal of witnesses who are cooperating to provide more details.
"Detectives will be interviewing people throughout the night, trying to sort out who did what," Warneke said.
There was no word as to what prompted the altercation. Police likely will provide more information Friday morning after the interviews are conducted.
Officials from the stadium released the following statement Thursday night:
"Stadium Management Company is aware of an incident that occurred in a parking lot adjacent to Sports Authority Field at Mile High. We are currently working with authorities to gather more information."
Multiple stabbings in parking lot after Denver Broncos game - NFL-com
There is a possible fourth victim who could not be located, according to Denver police spokesman Sgt. Steve Warneke.
The Denver Police Department's official Twitter account provided multiple updates on the stabbing. At 9:55 p.m., DPD responded to a large fight at Lot F of Sports Authority Field, near Dick Connor and Federal Boulevard. Three male victims with stabbing wounds were located. Two are in stable condition; one is critical.
Three suspects are in custody at this time, Warneke said, and Denver police do not believe there are any suspects at large. There are a great deal of witnesses who are cooperating to provide more details.
"Detectives will be interviewing people throughout the night, trying to sort out who did what," Warneke said.
There was no word as to what prompted the altercation. Police likely will provide more information Friday morning after the interviews are conducted.
Officials from the stadium released the following statement Thursday night:
"Stadium Management Company is aware of an incident that occurred in a parking lot adjacent to Sports Authority Field at Mile High. We are currently working with authorities to gather more information."
Multiple stabbings in parking lot after Denver Broncos game - NFL-com
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2006/12/07
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Following the Thursday Night Football game in Denver, The Denver Post reported that three people were stabbed outside of Sports Authority Field. It was the latest chilling reminder that there are many things that trump the importance of football-related concerns like playoff seeding, MVP races and touchdown records.
This incident would be merely troubling if it were isolated, but it's yet another in a long line of fan-violence problems that have plagued the NFL not only this season, but for a number of years. Factoring those in, it proves that the NFL, each team, and the many fans of the sport need to see a change in behavior sooner rather than later.
Earlier this month, a fan died at another Broncos game—this one on the road at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City—in a confusing scenario which seems to be a case of the victim mistakenly getting into the wrong vehicle and overreaction. The very next week, a Detroit Lions fan says he was targeted for wearing a Barry Sanders jersey and eventually knocked unconscious following a Philadelphia Eagles victory at Lincoln Financial Field.
At one game this year, a male New York Jets fan punched a female New England Patriots fan.
The NFL has a duty here to provide a safe atmosphere before, during and after their games. Trust me when I say that they will take that duty very seriously. Actually, let me pass along this reminder from NFL PR executive Greg Aiello, who reminded me of the "NFL Fan Code of Conduct" adopted in 2008:
When attending a game, [fans] are required to refrain from the following behaviors:
—Behavior that is unruly, disruptive, or illegal in nature.
—Intoxication or other signs of alcohol impairment that results in irresponsible behavior.
—Foul or abusive language or obscene gestures.
—Interference with the progress of the game (including throwing objects onto the field).
—Failing to follow instructions of stadium personnel.
—Verbal or physical harassment of opposing team fans.
Elsewhere in the guidelines, the NFL puts the onus on team staff to enforce the rules and lays out repercussions for what can happen when fans don't follow the rules. When asked, specifically, about whether or not the NFL feels it can do more to create a safe atmosphere, Aiello responded: "We can always do more."
No matter what the NFL does, however—short of enacting martial law and turning NFL stadiums into little police states—there is always going to be some blame to shoulder on fans for their own misdeeds.
Note: blame isn't a zero-sum game, and I'm not absolving the NFL from doing anything (nor, in fact, would the NFL accept that absolution). I'm also not blaming the hundreds of thousands of innocent fans that go to games, take their children and loved ones, and act responsibly.
That said, a solid segment of the NFL fan population has to grow up, and they should do it yesterday.
In many ways, this kind of violence is the tragic end that exists when one mixes high emotions, immaturity and (more times than not) alcohol.
So, let's take a look at the components that make up this dangerous cocktail.
Adrenaline Created During a Big Game Doesn't Just Disappear
It's exciting to go to an NFL game. It's supposed to be! That's the point!
Yet, the excitement that comes with sporting events can lead to completely different types of excitement afterward. Rioting following big losses is a sadly regular and expected occurrence around the world. More interestingly, however, is that riots following wins are also common.
Consider that following the Big Ten Championship football game this year, students and fans in East Lansing, Michigan, rioted: turning over a car and setting multiple fires. Arrests were made, property was destroyed, and from the looks of postings on social media, this was considered a normal reaction to people who were joyous about the school's victory and upcoming Rose Bowl berth.
That was hundreds of miles away from where the game was actually played (Indianapolis) and following a victory. Think about what would've happened if the game were at Michigan State, and the team lost. Worse yet, what if it was a close, nail-biting loss. What then?
NFL Fans, You're Better Than This | Bleacher Report
This incident would be merely troubling if it were isolated, but it's yet another in a long line of fan-violence problems that have plagued the NFL not only this season, but for a number of years. Factoring those in, it proves that the NFL, each team, and the many fans of the sport need to see a change in behavior sooner rather than later.
Earlier this month, a fan died at another Broncos game—this one on the road at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City—in a confusing scenario which seems to be a case of the victim mistakenly getting into the wrong vehicle and overreaction. The very next week, a Detroit Lions fan says he was targeted for wearing a Barry Sanders jersey and eventually knocked unconscious following a Philadelphia Eagles victory at Lincoln Financial Field.
At one game this year, a male New York Jets fan punched a female New England Patriots fan.
The NFL has a duty here to provide a safe atmosphere before, during and after their games. Trust me when I say that they will take that duty very seriously. Actually, let me pass along this reminder from NFL PR executive Greg Aiello, who reminded me of the "NFL Fan Code of Conduct" adopted in 2008:
When attending a game, [fans] are required to refrain from the following behaviors:
—Behavior that is unruly, disruptive, or illegal in nature.
—Intoxication or other signs of alcohol impairment that results in irresponsible behavior.
—Foul or abusive language or obscene gestures.
—Interference with the progress of the game (including throwing objects onto the field).
—Failing to follow instructions of stadium personnel.
—Verbal or physical harassment of opposing team fans.
Elsewhere in the guidelines, the NFL puts the onus on team staff to enforce the rules and lays out repercussions for what can happen when fans don't follow the rules. When asked, specifically, about whether or not the NFL feels it can do more to create a safe atmosphere, Aiello responded: "We can always do more."
No matter what the NFL does, however—short of enacting martial law and turning NFL stadiums into little police states—there is always going to be some blame to shoulder on fans for their own misdeeds.
Note: blame isn't a zero-sum game, and I'm not absolving the NFL from doing anything (nor, in fact, would the NFL accept that absolution). I'm also not blaming the hundreds of thousands of innocent fans that go to games, take their children and loved ones, and act responsibly.
That said, a solid segment of the NFL fan population has to grow up, and they should do it yesterday.
In many ways, this kind of violence is the tragic end that exists when one mixes high emotions, immaturity and (more times than not) alcohol.
So, let's take a look at the components that make up this dangerous cocktail.
Adrenaline Created During a Big Game Doesn't Just Disappear
It's exciting to go to an NFL game. It's supposed to be! That's the point!
Yet, the excitement that comes with sporting events can lead to completely different types of excitement afterward. Rioting following big losses is a sadly regular and expected occurrence around the world. More interestingly, however, is that riots following wins are also common.
Consider that following the Big Ten Championship football game this year, students and fans in East Lansing, Michigan, rioted: turning over a car and setting multiple fires. Arrests were made, property was destroyed, and from the looks of postings on social media, this was considered a normal reaction to people who were joyous about the school's victory and upcoming Rose Bowl berth.
That was hundreds of miles away from where the game was actually played (Indianapolis) and following a victory. Think about what would've happened if the game were at Michigan State, and the team lost. Worse yet, what if it was a close, nail-biting loss. What then?
NFL Fans, You're Better Than This | Bleacher Report
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2006/12/07
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The body of former NFL linebacker Jovan Belcher was exhumed Friday in order to perform tests on his brain, a lawyer for the player's family told the Kansas City Star.
Attorney Dirk Vandever told the newspaper that Belcher's family hopes tests will provide a clue as to why the four-year veteran of the Kansas City Chiefs shot his longtime girlfriend to death then killed himself about a year ago.
Belcher's body was exhumed Friday from a cemetery in Long Island, New York, the paper reported. It was not clear where the body was sent for examination.
Vandever didn't immediately respond to CNN's calls for comment Sunday morning. The family wants to know if chronic traumatic encephalopathy, known as CTE, or something else played a role in the murder-suicide, according to the newspaper.
CTE is a progressive degenerative brain disease found in some athletes with a history of repetitive brain trauma.
The only way to diagnose CTE is after death -- by analyzing brain tissue and finding microscopic clumps of an abnormal protein called tau. Tau has been found in the brains of dozens of former NFL players, including Junior Seau, Dave Duerson, Terry Long and Shane Dronett, who all committed suicide. It was also found in the brain of Mike Webster, who died in 2002.
Suicide latest in a string among former NFL players
Dr. Bennet Omalu, the first forensic pathologist to diagnose CTE in NFL players, told CNN time is a factor in the Belcher case.
"There is a reasonable probability that the (brain) tissues would have degenerated, but until you open the body up, you may not know if there would be viable tissue for reasonable analysis," he wrote in an e-mail to CNN on Sunday.
Omalu said there was a 50-50 chance that the study of the brain would yield results after the body had been buried about a year. He said he had performed two such studies himself.
"The exhumation and analysis has to be performed by a forensic pathologist who has the experience and expertise, otherwise it has the potential of coming to naught," he said. Scientists are working to identify some common symptoms of the brain disease in living players. Experts say athletes with CTE often struggle with memory and decision-making. Some exhibit mood and behavior problems such as depression and hopelessness, or violent, explosive behavior. A few show no symptoms at all.
In 2002, Webster, a Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was the first former NFL player to be diagnosed with CTE. After his retirement, Webster suffered from amnesia, dementia, depression and bone and muscle pain.
Other athletes have demonstrated erratic behavior, such as Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Justin Strzelczyk, 36, who died in a 2004 high-speed chase. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry died at age 26 after falling from the bed of a moving pickup during a fight with his fiancee.
Issues surrounding brain damage, and other potential long-term cognitive and emotional consequences of repetitive brain trauma, have become a serious concern for the NFL.
The league settled a concussion lawsuit for $765 million in August. At the heart of the lawsuit were plaintiffs' allegations that the NFL led a deliberate misinformation campaign -- primarily through its Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Committee -- to deny scientific data being presented in the medical community about concussion risks.
The deal calls for the NFL to pay for medical exams, concussion-related compensation, medical research for retired NFL players and their families, and litigation expenses, according to a court document filed in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia.
The agreement involved more than 4,500 plaintiffs.
Belcher -- who was 6-foot-2 and weighed 228 pounds -- played for the Chiefs from 2009 to 2012, appearing in 59 games. On December 1, 2012, the 25-year-old linebacker fatally shot his girlfriend, Kassandra Perkins, in the same home with their 3-month-old daughter before heading to the team's practice facility, thanking his coaches, and turning his gun on himself.
In an November article on Bleacher Report, a friend of Belcher's said the linebacker played through his physical problems.
"Jovan suffered multiple concussions," said Kash Kiefer, a former punter at Maine and one of Belcher's closest friends. "But in football, you don't complain. You play. That was Jovan. He played."
Belcher was from West Babylon, New York. He played for the University of Maine Black Bears, where he started in all 45 games of his four-year career.
Report: Former NFL player's body exhumed for brain study - CNN-com
Attorney Dirk Vandever told the newspaper that Belcher's family hopes tests will provide a clue as to why the four-year veteran of the Kansas City Chiefs shot his longtime girlfriend to death then killed himself about a year ago.
Belcher's body was exhumed Friday from a cemetery in Long Island, New York, the paper reported. It was not clear where the body was sent for examination.
Vandever didn't immediately respond to CNN's calls for comment Sunday morning. The family wants to know if chronic traumatic encephalopathy, known as CTE, or something else played a role in the murder-suicide, according to the newspaper.
CTE is a progressive degenerative brain disease found in some athletes with a history of repetitive brain trauma.
The only way to diagnose CTE is after death -- by analyzing brain tissue and finding microscopic clumps of an abnormal protein called tau. Tau has been found in the brains of dozens of former NFL players, including Junior Seau, Dave Duerson, Terry Long and Shane Dronett, who all committed suicide. It was also found in the brain of Mike Webster, who died in 2002.
Suicide latest in a string among former NFL players
Dr. Bennet Omalu, the first forensic pathologist to diagnose CTE in NFL players, told CNN time is a factor in the Belcher case.
"There is a reasonable probability that the (brain) tissues would have degenerated, but until you open the body up, you may not know if there would be viable tissue for reasonable analysis," he wrote in an e-mail to CNN on Sunday.
Omalu said there was a 50-50 chance that the study of the brain would yield results after the body had been buried about a year. He said he had performed two such studies himself.
"The exhumation and analysis has to be performed by a forensic pathologist who has the experience and expertise, otherwise it has the potential of coming to naught," he said. Scientists are working to identify some common symptoms of the brain disease in living players. Experts say athletes with CTE often struggle with memory and decision-making. Some exhibit mood and behavior problems such as depression and hopelessness, or violent, explosive behavior. A few show no symptoms at all.
In 2002, Webster, a Hall of Fame center for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was the first former NFL player to be diagnosed with CTE. After his retirement, Webster suffered from amnesia, dementia, depression and bone and muscle pain.
Other athletes have demonstrated erratic behavior, such as Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Justin Strzelczyk, 36, who died in a 2004 high-speed chase. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry died at age 26 after falling from the bed of a moving pickup during a fight with his fiancee.
Issues surrounding brain damage, and other potential long-term cognitive and emotional consequences of repetitive brain trauma, have become a serious concern for the NFL.
The league settled a concussion lawsuit for $765 million in August. At the heart of the lawsuit were plaintiffs' allegations that the NFL led a deliberate misinformation campaign -- primarily through its Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Committee -- to deny scientific data being presented in the medical community about concussion risks.
The deal calls for the NFL to pay for medical exams, concussion-related compensation, medical research for retired NFL players and their families, and litigation expenses, according to a court document filed in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia.
The agreement involved more than 4,500 plaintiffs.
Belcher -- who was 6-foot-2 and weighed 228 pounds -- played for the Chiefs from 2009 to 2012, appearing in 59 games. On December 1, 2012, the 25-year-old linebacker fatally shot his girlfriend, Kassandra Perkins, in the same home with their 3-month-old daughter before heading to the team's practice facility, thanking his coaches, and turning his gun on himself.
In an November article on Bleacher Report, a friend of Belcher's said the linebacker played through his physical problems.
"Jovan suffered multiple concussions," said Kash Kiefer, a former punter at Maine and one of Belcher's closest friends. "But in football, you don't complain. You play. That was Jovan. He played."
Belcher was from West Babylon, New York. He played for the University of Maine Black Bears, where he started in all 45 games of his four-year career.
Report: Former NFL player's body exhumed for brain study - CNN-com
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2006/12/07
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The National Institutes of Health outlined Monday how it planned to use part of a $30 million grant from the N.F.L. to finance a series of research projects designed to answer some of the most vexing questions about how and why athletes sustain traumatic brain injuries.
The agency said $12 million, most of it from the N.F.L., would go to two groups trying to identify chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or C.T.E., in living patients, not just in autopsies, as is the case now. To do that, they will try to define what is distinct about the condition. A total of $2 million will be given to six institutions more focused on concussions and young athletes.
The N.F.L., which has been widely criticized for the way it handled concussions in the past, has committed tens of millions of dollars to researchers studying concussions and the cognitive disorders linked to them. In addition to trying to help retired players who suffer from dementia, memory loss and other debilitating conditions, the league is trying to reassure parents that football is safe enough for their children to play.
To that end, the N.I.H. is financing several pilot projects that are trying to identify concussions and the effects of head hits on young players.
“Everywhere I go now, what people want to know is, ‘Should my kid play football or hockey?’ ” said Dr. Walter Koroshetz, the deputy director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, which is part of the N.I.H. “We need to know how common this is, how many injuries are too many, and prevent this from happening.”
The agency still has about $18 million from the N.F.L. to allocate. The league said the agency was in charge of how its money would be spent.
“We hope our grant will accelerate the medical communities’ pioneering research to enhance the health of athletes — past, present and future — in all sports,” said Brian McCarthy, a spokesman for the league.
Koroshetz said the largest problem that needed to be addressed was not only how to identify concussions more effectively, but to predict how quickly athletes recover and how likely they are to develop long-term symptoms, or even C.T.E. To date, dozens of players have been found to have C.T.E. posthumously, but many more subjects are needed to refine the contours of the condition.
“What we don’t know is what the scope of the problem is,” Koroshetz said. “We don’t know if we’re seeing the tip of the iceberg, or the whole iceberg.”
To that end, the N.I.H. has allocated $12 million to researchers at Boston University School of Medicine, a leader in diagnosing C.T.E. in deceased players, and doctors at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, which is working with researchers at the University of Washington who have been examining the brain tissue of thousands of people.
Dr. Ann McKee and her colleagues at Boston University will “define a clear set of criteria for the various stages of C.T.E. and to distinguish it from Alzheimer’s, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other neurodegenerative disorders.”
The second project, led by Dr. Wayne Gordon at Mount Sinai Hospital, will seek to describe the effects of mild, moderate and severe brain trauma and compare them to features of C.T.E.
Six other projects will receive a total of $2 million and last for up to two years. One project, worth $100,000, will finance a pilot study to look at a chemical in the brain known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, and what role it plays in sports-related concussions.
Doctors at Seattle Children’s Hospital, which has an active program to evaluate young athletes who receive concussions, will give magnetic resonance imaging tests to at least 10 high school students who receive concussions for the first time to see if they have elevated levels of the chemical.
“One of the big mysteries is they have cognitive issues, but nothing shows up on images,” said Dr. Jeffrey Ojemann, the division chief of neurosurgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital. “The $100,000 could help us scratch the surface and tell us where to go from there.”
www-nytimes-com/2013/12/17/sports/football/agency-selects-brain-trauma-projects-for-nfl-grant-html?_r=0
The agency said $12 million, most of it from the N.F.L., would go to two groups trying to identify chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or C.T.E., in living patients, not just in autopsies, as is the case now. To do that, they will try to define what is distinct about the condition. A total of $2 million will be given to six institutions more focused on concussions and young athletes.
The N.F.L., which has been widely criticized for the way it handled concussions in the past, has committed tens of millions of dollars to researchers studying concussions and the cognitive disorders linked to them. In addition to trying to help retired players who suffer from dementia, memory loss and other debilitating conditions, the league is trying to reassure parents that football is safe enough for their children to play.
To that end, the N.I.H. is financing several pilot projects that are trying to identify concussions and the effects of head hits on young players.
“Everywhere I go now, what people want to know is, ‘Should my kid play football or hockey?’ ” said Dr. Walter Koroshetz, the deputy director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, which is part of the N.I.H. “We need to know how common this is, how many injuries are too many, and prevent this from happening.”
The agency still has about $18 million from the N.F.L. to allocate. The league said the agency was in charge of how its money would be spent.
“We hope our grant will accelerate the medical communities’ pioneering research to enhance the health of athletes — past, present and future — in all sports,” said Brian McCarthy, a spokesman for the league.
Koroshetz said the largest problem that needed to be addressed was not only how to identify concussions more effectively, but to predict how quickly athletes recover and how likely they are to develop long-term symptoms, or even C.T.E. To date, dozens of players have been found to have C.T.E. posthumously, but many more subjects are needed to refine the contours of the condition.
“What we don’t know is what the scope of the problem is,” Koroshetz said. “We don’t know if we’re seeing the tip of the iceberg, or the whole iceberg.”
To that end, the N.I.H. has allocated $12 million to researchers at Boston University School of Medicine, a leader in diagnosing C.T.E. in deceased players, and doctors at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, which is working with researchers at the University of Washington who have been examining the brain tissue of thousands of people.
Dr. Ann McKee and her colleagues at Boston University will “define a clear set of criteria for the various stages of C.T.E. and to distinguish it from Alzheimer’s, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other neurodegenerative disorders.”
The second project, led by Dr. Wayne Gordon at Mount Sinai Hospital, will seek to describe the effects of mild, moderate and severe brain trauma and compare them to features of C.T.E.
Six other projects will receive a total of $2 million and last for up to two years. One project, worth $100,000, will finance a pilot study to look at a chemical in the brain known as gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, and what role it plays in sports-related concussions.
Doctors at Seattle Children’s Hospital, which has an active program to evaluate young athletes who receive concussions, will give magnetic resonance imaging tests to at least 10 high school students who receive concussions for the first time to see if they have elevated levels of the chemical.
“One of the big mysteries is they have cognitive issues, but nothing shows up on images,” said Dr. Jeffrey Ojemann, the division chief of neurosurgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital. “The $100,000 could help us scratch the surface and tell us where to go from there.”
www-nytimes-com/2013/12/17/sports/football/agency-selects-brain-trauma-projects-for-nfl-grant-html?_r=0
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2006/12/07
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Marty Schottenheimer won 205 games during his NFL head-coaching career. Of those wins, 197 came during successful runs with the Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs and San Diego Chargers. The rest -- and this is easy to forget -- were tallied during Schottenheimer's one-and-done run with the Washington Redskins in 2001.
We brought up the current state of the Redskins when we met with Schottenheimer, who visited NFL Network studios Tuesday for the premiere of "A Football Life: Marty Schottenheimer."
Schottenheimer said he didn't know enough about the Redskins' current inner workings to say if he would've handled the tricky Robert Griffin III situation any differently than Mike Shanahan, but Schottenheimer didn't hesitate to deliver praise for Washington's embattled coach.
"I've said it for years and been on record for years," Schottenheimer began. "There's not a better coach in the National Football League than Mike Shanahan."
Even now, with Shanahan 14 years clear of his last Super Bowl victory?
"I still believe that. Absolutely," Schottenheimer said. "I'm not going to change that, for all the years I've competed against him. That doesn't change on the basis of his current situation and this (RGIII) incident alone. I'm a big Mike Shanahan fan."
Schottenheimer believes Shanahan will land on his feet if his run with the Redskins soon ends, as many have predicted. "If it doesn't work, he'll get another job," he said. "And he'll do well, too."
Schottenheimer: No NFL coach better than Shanahan - NFL-com
We brought up the current state of the Redskins when we met with Schottenheimer, who visited NFL Network studios Tuesday for the premiere of "A Football Life: Marty Schottenheimer."
Schottenheimer said he didn't know enough about the Redskins' current inner workings to say if he would've handled the tricky Robert Griffin III situation any differently than Mike Shanahan, but Schottenheimer didn't hesitate to deliver praise for Washington's embattled coach.
"I've said it for years and been on record for years," Schottenheimer began. "There's not a better coach in the National Football League than Mike Shanahan."
Even now, with Shanahan 14 years clear of his last Super Bowl victory?
"I still believe that. Absolutely," Schottenheimer said. "I'm not going to change that, for all the years I've competed against him. That doesn't change on the basis of his current situation and this (RGIII) incident alone. I'm a big Mike Shanahan fan."
Schottenheimer believes Shanahan will land on his feet if his run with the Redskins soon ends, as many have predicted. "If it doesn't work, he'll get another job," he said. "And he'll do well, too."
Schottenheimer: No NFL coach better than Shanahan - NFL-com
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They are as follows:
Week 4 on Sept. 28: Raiders vs. the Dolphins
Week 8 on Oct. 26: Falcons vs. Lions
Week 10 on Nov. 9: Cowboys vs. the Jaguars
All games will be played at Wembley Stadium.
"Our fans in the UK continue to demonstrate their passion for more football," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement last month. “Next year for the first time we will play three regular-season games in London. We have scheduled three attractive games with four teams playing in their first International Series game. The growing enthusiasm for the NFL internationally is exciting and we look forward to continuing to respond to this interest in our game.”
NFL announces trio of dates of next year's London games - CBSSports-com