Jul
31
2008
The AP reports, “Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Reggie Williams will have arthroscopic surgery after re-injuring his right knee during training camp, the third setback in two weeks for Jacksonville.” Full story here.
Monster Take: This ended up being a more serious than first appearances. Williams should be avoided until a timetable is given for his return.

Jul
31
2008
The Charlotte Observer reports, “rookie running back Jonathan Stewart was featured several times – often as a receiver. Stewart, who is a burly 5-10, 235 pounds, showed his strength more than once. On one play, he took a handoff and bowled over two defensive linemen at the goal line.” Full story here.
Monster Take: DeAngelo Williams is listed ahead of Stewart on the depth chart, but this is shaping up to be a committee approach with the two producing at similar levels.

Jul
30
2008
The AP reports that Reggie William re-injured his knee. “During the evening practice, Williams made a spin move after a reception and hurt the knee. He limped to the sideline, was examined by team trainers and then carted off the field to the locker room for tests.” Full story here.
Monster Take: Williams had been placed on the PUP list while recovering from a sprained knee suffered while running stairs. He might have tried coming back too quickly. We’ll let you know when more information is available.

Jul
28
2008
The Tacoma News-Tribune reports on coach Holmgren’s meeting with his running backs. “Holmgren said he met with Julius Jones and Mo Morris yesterday and informed them of his plan to have them share carries. He said they both took it well and accepted it. He said he may even rotate who starts and then go with the hot hand.” Full story here.
Monster Take: In early drafts we’ve been watching and participating in, Julius Jones (ADP of 64) has been drafted well ahead of Morris (ADP of 208). News out of Seattle continues to give the warning signal of a full out running back by committee situation, yet most are still favoring Jones to win most of the carries. Based on the consistent message coming from Holmgren, we believe that Jones should be approached carefully in drafts. We’ll continue to watch this throughout the preseason.

Jul
28
2008
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports, “Running back Ryan Grant did not report to training camp Sunday and based on how angry his agent was Sunday with the Packers’ first offer, it could be a long time before he’s back in uniform.” Full story here.
Monster Take: What began as amicable negotiations have now taken a distinct turn toward getting ugly. The two sides don’t sound like they’re even close. The Packers already have their hands full with the Favre distraction, they don’t need this to get ugly too. Hopefully they’ll get something put together here soon. If not, Brandon Jackson’s stock will continue to rise throughout the preseason.

Jul
28
2008
The Texans website reports, “Andre Johnson was eager to take the field Friday after missing OTAs due to arthroscopic surgery, and the wide receiver looked like he hadn’t taken a day off, beating defensive backs C.C. Brown, Will Demps and Fred Bennett to catch a long touchdown pass.” Full story here.
Monster Take: Johnson appears to be on track with his recovery from arthroscopic surgery. Good news for him and the Texans.

Jul
28
2008
ESPN reports that Devin Hester has a new 4 year deal with Chicago. Full story here.
Monster Take: Hester is back in camp with a new contract and is reportedly making strides in his receiving game. If he can develop chemistry with the yet-to-be-named QB in Chicago he could be fun to watch this year.

Jul
28
2008
The New Orleans Times Picayune reports “Deuce McAllister’s magnetic resonance imaging test revealed no structural damage in the joint.” Full story here.
Monster Take: Deuce owners were holding their breath pending results of the MRI, but he looks to be okay. Still, draining knees this early on doesn’t bode well. Probably worth a look later on in drafts, but he comes with higher than average risk.

Jul
26
2008
The AP reports, “the New England Patriots have signed veteran running back LaMont Jordan a day after he was released by the Oakland Raiders.” Full story here.
Monster Take: We doubt that Jordan has much of a shot to compete for significant playing time here. Depending on how things go during preseason, he might be a decent handcuff pick for Laurence Maroney. We’ll keep you updated.

Jul
26
2008
The Boston Globe reports, “Saints running back Deuce McAllister has missed a practice, and coach Sean Payton says he is scheduled to have an MRI on his left knee.” Full story here.
Monster Take: You take your chances if you draft McAllister. His injury history combined with this news will likely continue to push him down the draft board.
