SB Nation - Anthony Waters

Web Rumblings: Buffalo Bills Links, 12/11

MattRichWarren — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:22:40 -0000

Buffalo Bills' special teams coming into form | Democrat and Chronicle
"I just took one of the young guys aside and explained what 'backdoor ear hole' means," Bills special teams coach Bobby April said. "That's a common term that I've used (for how you initiate angled contact with an opponent). He didn't know. In terms of having a lot of different guys out there, it's been unbelievable how many guys we've moved in and out. You're always teaching, but not with that much detail (at this time of the year)."

McGee looking good for Sun. – Inside The Bills
"Bills CB Terrence McGee practiced fully for a second straight day on Thursday enhancing his chances of returning to a full time role in Buffalo’s defensive lineup."

Really? The Buffalo Bills All-Decade Team : Buffalo Sports Daily
Pat Moran gives his team of the decade. FYI - the coach is Mike Mularkey and Trey Teague is the center. Yikes!

Bills kick game specialists roughing it – Inside The Bills
Special teams coordinator Bobby April accompanied his specialists out in the elements yesterday.

Bills linebacker Posluszny quarterbacks the defense : The Buffalo News
Rodney McKissic profiles Bills LB Paul Posluszny for the News' Friday Player Profile.

Question Mark: Plenty of blame for no LB depth : The Buffalo News
Mark Gaughan answers questions on the linebacker depth issues, Trent Edwards' fall from grace, and the undefeated teams in the NFL.

Buffalo Bills' Parrish says confidence isn't lacking | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle
"Roscoe Parrish is back returning punts for Bills, but he hasn't made an impact."

Chiefs QB Cassel Familiar With Former AFC East Foe Bills - Arrowhead Pride
"Cassel has started and beaten the Bills on two occasions and admits that he's a little familiar with them."

Chiefs Granted 24 Hour Extension To Sell Tickets for Bills Game - Arrowhead Pride
"The Kansas City Chiefs have been granted a 24 hour extension to sell the remaining unsold tickets for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills, Josh Looney of KCChiefs.com reports."

Video: AccuScore likes Bills to win in K.C. - AFC East Blog - ESPN
"Jenny Dell of "Countdown Daily" delivers the AccuScore report for Sunday's game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium. The Bills win a surprising 56 percent of AccuScore's 10,000 simulations."

Buffalo Bills NFL News Updates - CBSSports.com Rapid Reports
Bills interim coach Perry Fewell is expecting a challenge in Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles. Buffalo is 32nd in the league in run defense. "Charles is really a fine running back," Fewell said. "He's not a power running back, he's more of an outside speed back - really good in one-on-one situations."

Countdown Daily Prediction: Bills-Chiefs - ESPN Video - ESPN
"Herm Edwards and Mark Schlereth give you their pick"

DL Mace brought back – Inside The Bills
"Just two days after being waived from the 53-man roster, DL Corey Mace was re-signed to the Bills practice squad. The defensive lineman was waived Monday as the team re-signed Joe Klopfenstein to give the Bills three tight ends on their roster. The open spot on Buffalo’s eight-man practice squad to re-sign Mace was created when LB Anthony Waters was signed by the New Orleans Saints."

John Clayton with Schopp and the Bulldog
The ESPN NFL correspondent talks with the guys each week.

Stadium Seating - Interactive Features - Portfolio.com
The Bills are having financial problems in Buffalo but Portfolio.com says Rochester, NY could support an NFL franchise. (Toronto, however, could not).

Team in Transition
Hiring Super Bowl-winning coach offers no guarantees of NFL title - Don Banks - SI.com
"The track record of coaches who have scaled the game's highest summit and then went on to work for other NFL franchises does not spawn some sort of murky debate. It's clear cut. The coaching magic that won a Super Bowl has never been rekindled to the same degree in a subsequent stop."

Bills notebook: Receivers coach Tolbert headed to LSU : The Buffalo News
Buffalo Bills wide receivers coach Tyke Tolbert has been hired for a similar position at LSU, according to a report Thursday on neworleans.com. Tolbert played at LSU as a wide receiver from 1988-90.

Bills Tweets
Nic Harris
Man this snow is too crazy, first Blizzard! Sweet Jesus!!!

Lydell Sargent
Jst put up my first tree in my own place.Did it without moms helping me to!! Not the prettiest but it works fo http://tweetphoto.com/6186786

Sargent again
maybe its me but ur tree SHOULD be bigger than ur TV.lol<--haha well tht will NEVER happn n my house!!TVs alwys

Shawn Nelson
mannn its a blizzard out here in buffalo...........this is not of GOD!!

Twitter / Chris Mortensen
chance T.O stays in Buffalo. ))) I 'd guess very slim.

San Diego Chargers' Roster: 2009 vs. 2008

John (obviousman) — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:02:57 -0000

More photos » by Dave Martin - AP

3 months ago: San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson (21) and quarterback Philip Rivers (17) watch from the sidelines during their NFL preseason football game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Saturday Aug. 29, 2009. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)

Browse more photos »

With the San Diego Chargers' 53-man roster set, I want to compare where the team is today compared to where they were one year ago. How do the position groups match up to each other? On talent alone, has the team gotten better or worse?

QB (2009): Philip Rivers, Billy Volek, Charlie Whitehurst

QB (2008): Rivers, Volek, Whitehurst

Verdict: Equal. There's been no change, but Rivers enters 2009 with no questions about his health (as he did in 2008) and a year of learning how to carry an NFL team on his back. Volek looks more polished as he gets even more comfortable with Norv Turner's offense. Still, any improvements here have more to do with time and chemistry rather than any talent improvement.

See the comparisons and verdicts of the rest of the position groups after the jump.

HB (2009): LaDainian Tomlinson, Darren Sproles, Michael Bennett, Gartrell Johnson, Jacob Hester, Mike Tolbert

HB (2008): LT, Sproles, Hester, Tolbert, Andrew Pinnock

Verdict: Better in '09. The Chargers went into 2008 thinking that Hester could fit the role of power RB and backup to LT. He has shown himself to be a fine FB, but not an NFL-caliber running back. So, based on the fact that there is at least one decent backup to LT in 2009 (Bennett) and possibly another (Johnson), 2009 wins.

WR (2009): Chris Chambers, Vincent Jackson, Buster Davis, Malcom Floyd, Legedu Naanee, Kassim Osgood

WR (2008): Chambers, Jackson, Davis, Floyd, Naanee, Osgood

Verdict: Equal. Same players, same result. Jackson, Floyd and Naanee may be better than they were at the start of 2008, but there's really no way of predicting that. The expectations for Chambers and Davis have dropped in the last year.

TE (2009): Antonio Gates, Brandon Manumaleuna, Kris Wilson

TE (2008): Gates, Manumaleuna

Verdict: Better in '09. Kris Wilson offers great blocking and good hands out of the 3rd TE position. Having a player like that on the end of the line (possibly next to Manu), offers a great improvement for goal line packages. Expect a lot of "Off Tackle" runs to his side when the Chargers are inside the opponents' 5 yard line.

OT (2009): Jeromey Clary, Marcus McNeill, Brandyn Dombrowski

OT (2008): Clary, McNeill, L.J. Shelton, Corey Clark

Verdict: Better in 2008. Although I really like Dombrowski, I'd certainly prefer to have 2 legitimate backup Tackles and a veteran mixed in there (like Shelton) makes me more comfortable as well. Shelton did a decent job filling in for McNeill in 2008, and it's always nice to have a proven commodity sitting on the bench should anything happen.

G (2009): Kris Dielman, Louis Vasquez, Tyronne Green

G (2008): Dielman, Mike Goff, Scott Mruczkowski

Verdict: Better in '09. Dielman is healthier than he was going into 2008, Goff was a train-wreck last season and has since flopped in KC, and Mooch is still on the team. Louis Vasquez brings a massive presence to the right side of the line that should eventually help balance it out.

C (2009): Nick Hardwick, Mruczkowski

C (2008): Hardwick, Jeremy Newberry, Cory Withrow

Verdict: Better in '09. Hardwick is healthy, which is the biggest improvement here, and Mooch is a better blocker than Newberry and Withrow combined. The reason the Chargers were able to go with only 8 offensive linemen is because Mruczkowski and Green can both play Center and Guard. Dombrowski can also play either Tackle or Guard.

Defense

DT (2009): Jamal Williams, Ogemdi Nwagbuo

DT (2008): Williams, Brandon McKinney

Verdict: Equal. Both McKinney and Nwagbuo are young and have shown themselves to be capable in the preseason. Regular work in the season will let the team know if Nwagbuo is ready to fill that backup NT slot long-term.

DE (2009): Luis Castillo, Travis Johnson, Vaughn Martin, Jacques Cesaire

DE (2008): Castillo, Igor Olshansky, Cesaire, Ryon Bingham

Verdict: Incomplete. For as bland as Igor was as the Chargers' DE, he stayed healthy and was consistent enough to almost never get bowled over. Cesaire's health will help determine if this group has been improved over 2008, as well as how well Travis Johnson can transition back to the 3-4 and if he's improved work ethic. Since neither is a starter, I'll call Martin and Bingham a tie.

ILB (2009): Kevin Burnett, Stephen Cooper, Tim Dobbins, Brandon Siler

ILB (2008): Dobbins, Siler, Matt Wilhelm, Derek Smith, Anthony Waters

Verdict: 2009, better by a long shot. Cooper wasn't on the initial 53 man roster from 2008 because he was serving a 4 game suspension, so that's a big improvement. Burnett has shown himself to be a major playmaker in the Chargers defense, which puts him leaps and bounds ahead of Wilhelm, Smith and Waters.

OLB (2009): Shawne Merriman, Shaun Phillips, Larry English, Jyles Tucker, Antwan Applewhite

OLB (2008): Merriman, Phillips, Marques Harris, Jyles Tucker

Verdict: 2009 wins. A healthy Merriman (remember, the Chargers knew he was planning on playing 2008 on a bad knee), plus a first-round draft pick, makes this an easy choice.

CB (2009): Quentin Jammer, Antonio Cromartie, Antoine Cason

CB (2008): Jammer, Cromartie, Cason, Cletis Gordon, DeJuan Tribble

Verdict: Tie. Gordon and Tribble don't bring anything to the 2008 group. Figuring that out helped the Chargers to take the risk and go with only 3 CBs in 2009.

FS (2009): Eric Weddle, Paul Oliver, C.J. Spillman

FS (2008): Weddle, Oliver

Verdict: 2009, but just barely. I don't know that Spillman will see a lot of time as a FS in '09, but he should be a force on special teams and could eventually develop into the backup FS or a starting SS.

SS (2009): Clinton Hart, Steve Gregory, Kevin Ellison

SS (2008): Hart, Gregory

Verdict: 2009, but just barely. Ellison brings something to the table in goal line situations (where he can't get burned deep), and I hope he can do something for special teams, but that's about it right now. If he continues to develop, keeping him this season will pay dividends in the future.

Special Teams (LS/K/P): David Binn, Nate Kaeding and Mike Scifres are rocks in this group. The Chargers, and their fans, are hopeful that this trio stays together for another five seasons.

Do you have a question for next week's mailbag? Don't hesitate to e-mail me directly with your question and I'll make sure to answer it before next week's game.

New Orleans Saints Announce Roster Cuts

Saintsational — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 22:06:59 -0000

The Times-Pic has just released the full list of New Orleans Saints players who were cut today. Including Joey Harrington and Adrian Arrington, whose names were released earlier today, those players are:

Position	Player
WR	Courtney Roby
WR	Skyler Green
WR	Matt Simon
RB	P.J. Hill
RB	Herb Donaldson
LB	Anthony Waters
DT	DeMario Pressley
G	Tim Duckworth
CB	Danny Gorrer
DT	Early Heyman
TE	Martrez Milner
TE	Jermey Parnell
DE	Paul Spicer
G/T	Anthony Davis
T	Michael Brown
C	Digger Bujnoch
G	Nate Bennett
S	Chip Vaughn placed on IR

The only surprises here are the release of Paul Spicer, DeMario Pressley and Anthony Waters. Can't say we didn't see Chip Vaughn being placed on IR. He's just missed too much time for a rookie this pre-season. Chris Reis, Jonathan Casillas, Buck Ortega, Leigh Torrence and Rod Harper all survived the cut and have made the squad.

Here's a look at how the 53-man roster looks now:

Offense

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*
QB	Drew Brees	Mark Brunell
RB	Pierre Thomas	Reggie Bush	Mike Bell	Lynell Hamilton
FB	Heath Evans
WR	Marques Colston	Robert Meachem	Lance Moore	Devery Henderson	Rod Harper
TE	Jeremy Shockey	Darnell Dinkins	Buck Ortega	David Thomas
C	Jonathan Goodwin	Nick Leckey
G	Carl Nicks	Jamar Nesbit	Jahri Evans
T	Jammal Brown	Jon Stinchcomb	Zach Strief	Jermon Bushrod

Defense

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*	*Player*
DE	Will Smith	Charles Grant	Bobby McCray	Jeff Charleston	Anthony Hargrove
DT	Sedrick Ellis	Kendrick Clancy	Remi Ayodele
LB	Jonathan Vilma	Scott Fujita	Scott Shanle	Jo-Lonn Dunbar	Jonathan Casillas	Troy Evans	Marvin Mitchell
CB	Jabari Greer	Tracy Porter	Malcolm Jenkins	Randall Gay	Leigh Torrence
SS	Roman Harper	Pierson Prioleau	Chris Reis
FS	Darren Sharper	Usama Young

Special Teams

*Position*	*Player*	*Player*
Kicker	John Carney	Garrett Hartley
Punter	Thomas Morstead
Long Snapper	Jason Kyle

You'll notice the depth chart contains Will Smith, Charles Grant and Garrett Hartley, all three of whom are suspended for the first four games of the season. They will not count against the 53-man roster during those games, so at least two players (David Thomas was brought in) will need to be signed to take their place in the interim. It appears the Saints are light at the defensive tackle spot so I would hope to see one of those signings be used on that position.

Poll

Which player cut surprises you the most?

DeMario Pressley

136 votes

Paul Spicer

295 votes

Joey Harrington

98 votes

Adrian Arrington

208 votes

Anthony Waters

55 votes

Danny Gorrer

4 votes

796 votes | Poll has closed

New Orleans Saints 38 @ Houston Texans 14: Making the Grade

Saintsational — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:00:19 -0000

Below are my grades for the Saints second pre-season game against the Houston Texans. On the whole I am very happy with the teams play on both sides of the ball. Starting to get a little optimistic even. Let me know what you think of my evaluation in the comment section. If you've got a problem, let's hug it out. Also, for the readers from last year, I'm trying out a different format than usual for our "Making the Grade" series of posts. If you've got an opinion either way as to which one you prefer, let me know.

Grade: A

Mike Bell - Is this really a surprise to anyone? I'll spare you any hyperbole or bell ringing cliche's and keep this short. Yesterday's "Player of the Game" poll says it all with Bell receiving an overwhelming 95% of the vote (currently). But let's also give it up for the offensive line. They looked pretty solid in the run blocking department and deserve just as much credit.

Anthony Waters - Saints fans have got to like what they see from the backup linebacker. Waters notched the teams only sack, forced a fumble and recovered that fumble. That's a Gregg Williams kind of player.

Grade: B

Rod Harper - I would have actually considered Hot Rod Harper for an "A" grade if not for the 15-yard showboating penalty following his punt return touchdown. Poor form. Still, his TD was the nail in the coffin last night and proved that he's more than just a receiver. Good things just seem to happen when he touches the ball. Pretty sure you've got to consider him the surprise of the summer.

Jabari Greer - I'm still liking what I see from Greer. He allowed Johnson to make a nice sideline catch next to him and also whiffed on an open field tackle but he looked good the rest of the game with tight coverage, including a superb hit in the second quarter to jar the ball loose and cause an incompletion.

Grade: C

Jermon Bushrod - The young tackle didn't do anything spectacular to make us rethink Jammal Brown's place on this team but he also held his own and didn't get beat too badly. And all against Super Mario Williams. But "holding his own" also means there is room for improvement. Perhaps an "A+" performance and a personal victory for Bushrod, I think he can play at an even higher level so I give him an average "C." Perhaps a bit harsh.

Malcolm Jenkins - After getting beat badly by Andre Davis, we were reminded Saturday night that Malcolm Jenkins is just a rookie. Even he'll admit that...

MalcolmJenkins Just got back from Houston... they got me today, i lost my NFL virginity, but it happens we had a great win and thats all that matters

But it's still early and there also were some bright spots in his play against Houston. All part of the road to greatness.

Grade: D

Skyler Green - For those LSU fans out there who were hoping to see Skyler finally crack the lineup this season, I'm affraid it's not likely to happen. Green's only contribution on Saturday night was a single punt return he managed to gain only four yards with. Forget making the team as a receiver.

Defensive Line - I'm just going to include everyone who plays on the defensive line for this one. Anthony Hargrove and Kendrick Clancy stood out slightly but overall there was still a lack of pressure on the quarterback. Will Smith has yet to really make his presence felt either. The defense has looked great regardless so I shudder to think how good they could really be with a little help from a rush. Perhaps when the games start to count...

Grade: F

Special Teams - Stupid penalties and missed field goals. Definitely the worst aspect of the Saints Saturday night performance, by far.

Poll

What overall grade would you give the Saints performance against the Texans?

A

124 votes

B

371 votes

C

41 votes

D

1 votes

F

7 votes

544 votes | Poll has closed

Canal Street Chronicles: Fleur-di-Links 8.12.09

Saintsational — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:00:29 -0000

Twitter

reggie_bush Ok I bowled terrible today I'm embarrassed to even put my scores up. 100 and 175...first game was a warm up! Lol! I think?

Harp41 Bowling was fun!

CPT23 Hard day of hitting today - I'm ready to hit another team! Who's with me? Who Dat!

NFLprguy We r going 2 announce tmrw plans 2 kick off NFL season 9/10 in Pittsburgh w/ huge free concert b4 game and other events

jeffduncantp An addendum to earlier posts about D. Brooks. He's in town tonight, will work out tomorrow. I predict he signs & is at practice tomorrow.

SupaFreak69 Gettin ready for the Bengals to come in town...why must people shout loudly bout wat they know not....I tell ya what I Love training camp.

jeffduncantp FYI: Saints are $4.9 million under the salary cap so signing Brooks won't be a money issue.

jeffduncantp My guess: He'll take Simoneau's spot. Reserve WLB/MLB in 4-3, w/1st unit inside in 3-4. @BigandEasy Jeff, will Brooks start?

GregBensel afternoon practice, originally scheduled for outside and open to fans has been moved indoors and is closed; roy jones jr will visit camp

Linkage

Derrick Brooks would be a good fit for the New Orleans Saints - Times-Pic

New Orleans Saints' Reggie Bush has time to turn career around - Sports Illustrated

Notes from New Orleans Saints practice Tuesday - Times-Pic

PLAY OF THE DAY

After dropping a beautifully thrown pass from Harrington, who laid it over tight coverage from a cornerback, veteran tight end Billy Miller made a circus catch on a pass thrown by Mark Brunell. Miller made a diving grab against linebacker Anthony Waters for a 22-yard completion.

New Orleans Saints left tackle Jammal Brown wants to improve on run blocking - Times-Pic

"Face it: he has the toughest job on the offensive line," Saints line coach Aaron Kromer said. "We just threw for 5,000 yards and he plays left tackle. We drop back and throw the football a lot, and sometimes we were down by a couple touchdowns and everybody knew it, and they took off pass-rushing.

"And to be honest, Jammal Brown did a really nice job of pass protecting, and that's what you're asking your left tackle to do."

-Aaron Kromer

"Of course if you make the Pro Bowl one time, then anything less than that is not as good as you had," Brown said. "So I think my situation, once you reach that high bar, you've got to get back to that, but personally you've got goals, and my goals are for sure playoffs first, and then get to a Super Bowl. Then personal things fall after that."

-Jammal Brown

"Look at what we did that year," Brown said. "We came in after the hurricane year, and were one game away (from the Super Bowl). That playoff game against the Eagles was what, the first win or the second win ever? So that's special to the fans here and the city and to us, so I'd say that's been the proudest of my years."

-Jammal Brown

"He's absolutely one of the top guys in the league, athletic-wise, and strength-wise, he's getting there," Smith said. "And he's a well-conditioned guy. You know, I love going up against him because I know not too many guys I'm going to play against on Sunday are actually going to have that much energy and that much quickness like him."

-Will Smith

"You can get on him and tell him exactly what you want, and he can take it right to the field," Payton said. "He's more of a quiet leader. I think he's got the respect of his teammates because of how he plays, but he's not necessarily going to be the guy up in front of the group talking all the time."

-Sean Payton

Video

Audio

Sports Talk...Unplugged with Kenny Wilkerson

2009 Saints Minicamp: What Have we Learned?

Saintsational — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:00:24 -0000

I hope you all got your fill of New Orleans Saints football for the time being because that's it. It's over. You won't be seeing anymore until training camp gets underway later next month. The team has just a couple of weeks of OTA's remaining, all of which are closed to the public, before they get some final vacation time. As we say goodbye to this three day tease they call minicamp I wanted to recap some of the major (and not-so major) themes I think are most important and open this bad boy up for one last discussion.

Shockey's Back

You know how I know Jeremy Shockey is going to return to form and have a great season on the field in 2009? Because off the field he has become the attention-grabbing, media magnet that all NFL fans have come to know and love. Shockey has done a pretty good job of staying out of the spotlight since coming to New Orleans. Unfortunately, he's also done a fine job of staying out of the end zone too. But The Shockmeister has made a return to national headlines with this most recent incident in Vegas. And wouldn't you know it - he had a damn good minicamp weekend too. I'm starting to think the off-field controversy and on-field production go hand it hand. Regardless, Shockey is creating a buzz and as of now it's the good kind. Don't kill my buzz.

Secondary No Longer Primary Concern

If Who Dat Nation wasn't talking about Shockey this weekend than they were talking about the ridiculously upgraded secondary. Though nothing is guaranteed when it comes to Saints football, with so many new talented faces on this years team the odds just have to be in favor of improvement. And if the increased depth doesn't get you excited, the fact that the secondary actually looked good this weekend should. Sharper, Jenkins and Greer all made interceptions on Saturday while Harper, Porter, Torrence and Reis each knocked down passes. Even Danny Gorrer is stepping it up. If we learned absolutely anything this weekend it's that the secondary should be better in 2009. Comforting, I know.

Is Different Better?

It was my main point when I gave my report back from Friday's minicamp and it's been a major theme of this weekend. The Saints defense has been given an extreme makeover worthy of Fox's The Swan. We're seeing different fronts and blitz packages. Gregg Williams was even tinkering with the 3-4 this weekend. I caution everyone to try and curb their enthusiasm because different doesn't necessarily mean better. It does, however, raise a million questions about what to expect this season.

Mike Bell Running Away With It

The battle for that third running back position will be intense this year but given the nature of minicamp we didn't really get a good look at the competition. If I had to pick a front-runner, though, it would have to be Mike Bell. He seemed to garner the most attention and praise from the media this weekend, moreso than Lynell Hamilton, P.J. Hill and Herb Donaldson. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens in training camp

Injuries are Scary

There were some injury scares this weekend with regards to a couple of players. First was, who else, Dan Morgan who left practice Friday with a calf injury. Darnell Dinkins was out with an ankle. Then Sedrick Ellis tried to hack Pierre Thomas's wrist off and Jammal Brown did his best Shockey impression (dehydration). Don't forget Scott Shanle missed time with a calf injury as well. All of which should hauntingly remind us of last season. It's frustrating to be reminded how quickly the potential for a great season can come crashing to an end at the hand of injury but unfortunately it's part of the game. All we can do is hope for some better luck this season.

Sean Payton is the Next Steven Spielberg

I don't know about you but I thought the story about Payton shopping his "XBox Kid" movie script was the most interesting news of the weekend. I'm sure it will be just a shell of it's original self once Hollywood gets its hands on it, but learning about Payton's creative side was certainly the most shocking fact of the weekend.

Biggest Surprise Players

Mike Detillier says Danny Gorrer and Jermy Parnell have been impressive.

Why Didn't We Hear Much About...

Chip Vaughn? DeMario Pressley?

Whose Job is in Jeopardy?

Glenn Pakulak. Thomas Morstead drew praise for his big leg and his hang time.

Who Picked Up Right Where They Left Off?

Billy Miller. He continues to be underrated and a fan favorite.

Quote of the Weekend

Billy Miller again...

"If Jeremy Shockey is at the best of his ability, Billy Miller in year 11 is going to win a Super Bowl," Miller said. "And that's all that matters. Nothing else really matters at my age but winning. Not money, not any of that. Just winning ball games.

"Jeremy Shockey was brought in to be the starting tight end and to provide me with a nice shiny ring."

Popular Minicamp Trend

The Times-Pic reports that Courtney Roby, Roman Harper, Jason David, Skyler Green and Anthony Waters all have mohawks.

Completely Stupid Random Fact

There are three players on the current roster with the last name Evans. Jahri, Heath and Troy.

Feel free to now discuss anything else you think I've missed and offer your final thoughts on Saints minicamp.

New Orleans Saints Minicamp: The View from the Middle of the Top Metal Bleacher

Saintsational — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:00:32 -0000

More photos » by Bill Haber - AP

6 months ago: New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey (88) reacts while waiting for his next repetition during afternoon football practice at the team's training facility in Metairie, La., Friday, June 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

Browse more photos »

You may not believe this but my off-season cautious optimism just took a big shot in the arm today and has now dropped all the way down to just slightly optimistic. Baby steps here people. Truth be told, it didn't really matter what happened out there on the field today I was just glad to see some Saints football. Any Who Dat would have been excited.

But seriously folks, there was a lot to be happy about yesterday afternoon and it was for obvious reasons. I'm about to say something you've been hearing quite a lot this off-season but that doesn't make it any less true: this defense is different. And it's a good different.

I know, I know. I sound like a broken mainstream media record but it's true. Probably the most interesting observation of the day was what I saw from the guys wearing black. They showed a few different looks, one or two of which had Shanle and sometimes Fujita up at the line and Vilma dropping back into coverage. Not surprising given what we learned about Gregg Williams and his schemes. The defense was also employing some unique blitz packages utilizing cornerbacks and safeties, one of which led to what would have surely been a Joey Harrington sack by a DB (maybe Chris Reis). Pretty complex stuff for minicamp! The stench of Gary Gibbs is definitely long gone.

Something else I wasn't used to seeing from the Saints defense that impressed me was their seeming ability to better get in position. More than once was a defender - Roman Harper is coming to mind - in the right place at the right time and ready to snuff out the play or end it quickly with a well-timed hit. Some of those offensive guys are lucky yesterday's practice was no contact. It's that last point, however, that brings me back to reality. These guys were just wearing shorts so I take everything yesterday with a grain of salt. Finishing the play is a whole other issue but it's great to see that everything appears to at least be on the right track.

So what's the bottom line? This years defense will certainly be more exciting and fun to watch so get ready. But better? Still too early to tell.

You know I like to roll bullet-style so why change a good thing. Here are the rest of my notes:

I was surprised to see so many people in attendance especially given it was the middle of a weekday. All seats were filled and latecomers had to stand. Getting their early was definitely wise.
I'm not sure why but I was surprised to see food (and alcohol), merchandise and solicitation tents lined up for business. It was like a miniature outdoor version of the Superdome concourse.
Notice you didn't hear any of the traditional "I can't believe how hot it is" cliches from the media and players. The weather was perfect. Just perfect.
Meachem drew the first reaction from the crowd when he dropped an easy pass in the wide open flat. There were grumblings.
One thing we can't see during these no-pads practices is tackling. Still no idea whether or not these ankle biters have improved in the weak tackling department.
Shockey looked pretty good out there. A leaping catch over the middle followed by a tuck and roll drew applause from the crowd. A lot of people in the audience were discussing "Dehydrationgate."
Not much to see from Colston or Moore yesterday.
There was a quick little scrap following a play during offense vs. defense work. Couldn't tell who it was.
I think it's a bit hard to really tell how well the running backs looked. They may be breaking through the line but with no tackling it's too far from actual game situations.
The cornerback mix was interesting. Gay and Greer were getting reps with the first team today. Greer I understand but Gay I don't. Tracy Porter and Leigh Torrence were with the second team. Jason David the third team. Don't forget that Malcolm Jenkins will be added to the mix as well. Very cool.
Garrett Hartley only saw a minute or so of action but he was perfect every time.
Colston and Henderson botched the exchange on a double reverse that illicited a reaction from the crowd. Other than that play Henderson caught everything else thrown his way.
Colston is a tall dude. Fujita is a big dude. Jason David...not so much.
Apparently injuries are still something Saints fans need to worry about. I didn't see it but Dan Morgan left early with with a calf injury and Dan Campbell missed practice with a knee injury.

Sorry to say I have to work tomorrow so I won't be able to make it out there for round two. To make up for it, I have included the rest of my pictures from yesterday's minicamp after the jump. Enjoy, then discuss. You must discuss.

Meal ticket.

No fun!

The grounds.

I guess you would call this a fieldhouse? Maybe?

Always a merch tent.

The crowd.

Even more crowd.

Roster handout. Alphabetically on one side, numerically on the other. In case you were wondering.

Food and beer. They think of everything!

The eye in the sky. Seriously, that thing was up there.

One on one.

Robert Meachem vs. Jabari Greer

Robert Meachem.

Reggie Bush.

Not sure. I think Devery Henderson.

A light jog.

Footwork.

Defense stretch.

Now offense stretch.

Reggie Bush and Heath Evans.

The Accused.

The media.

Pierre Thomas.

Meachem missing a diving catch.

Hartley like it's his job. Oh wait.

The boss man making sure everyone is having a good time.

Scott Fujita vs. Anthony Waters in one on one drills.

The receiving corp.

Rita gave me a closeup.

Jonathan Goodwin and Carl Nicks. This is a multimillion dollar organization, can't we get these guys some jersey's that fit.

Jonathan Vilma.

Jeremy Shockey was a real jokester the whole time.

Jammal Brown.

Adrian Arrington.

Saints 2009 Position Battles: Linebacker

Saintsational — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:00:18 -0000

Continuing on with our roster breakdown position by position we now come to the linebacking corp. This position has had one heck of a makeover this off-season. With so many more talented players battling it out this year, the Saints are sure to see improvement from the middle of their defense. Let's take a look at who they've got.

Here's a quick glance at all of linebackers currently on the Saints roster:

Player	Height	Weight	Age	Experience
Jonathan Vilma	6'1"	230	27	6
Scott Fujita	6'5"	250	30	8
Mark Simoneau	6'0"	245	32	10
Scott Shanle	6'2"	245	29	7
Dan Morgan	6'2"	245	30	8
Stanley Arnoux	6'0"	232	22	R
Jo-Lonn Dunbar	6'0"	226	24	2
Troy Evans	6'3"	238	31	8
Marvin Mitchell	6'3"	249	24	3
Anthony Waters	6'3"	238	24	3
Jonathan Casillas	6'2"	226	21	R

There is quite a crowd ready to fight it out for a final roster spot this year. The Saints will start off with eleven possibly candidates and will probably need to cut it down to about six, possibly seven.

Vilma and Fujita are probably the only two players on the list that are a lock to make the team. Both are undeniable leaders of this position group both on the field and in the locker room. Moving on to the other returning players we come across Scott Shanle and Mark Simoneau. Simoneau missed all of last year and as the oldest player at the position, I think he's reached the end of the road with the Saints. Payton has been trying for years to get rid of Shanle but the little bugger just won't go away. With all of the talent added to the roster this off-season, I think Payton has finally improved the weak side. I hope Shanle is gone but we've been wrong about this before.

Dan Morgan is an enigma whose play just can't be predicted. If he remains healthy he could be one of the biggest improvements to this entire defense. He's that good. But he also hasn't played in a year and he may trip over a few cobwebs. Morgan says he's in the best shape of his life so all we can do is believe him. He definitely makes the team if he doesn't die during training camp.

I think Troy Evans had better shine on special teams. That's been his specialty (pun sort of intended) and it might be his meal ticket this year.

Jo-Lonn Dunbar and Marvin Mitchell are the young returnees. Both show a lot of upside, particularly Dunbar, but competition hasn't been this tough in recent years. These guys are big contributors on special teams so they're always a consideration. Either of these guys could surprise coaches with a bit of hard work. Dunbar seems to be a favorite of fans and coaches.

Your guess is as good as mine regarding what kind of production to expect from Anthony Waters. He certainly won't start but he'll be battling with Marvin Mitchell for a spot as Vilma's backup. Because of Mitchell's special team contributions, I don't see Waters beating him out.

Then there are the new guys: Stanley Arnoux and Jonathan Casillas. Arnoux comes in as a fourth round pick so expectations are only moderate. Working his way into a starting spot will be a bit of a long shot but the hope is that he will become a quality player with a little coaching and time. I think the Saints keep him around as a backup on the outside. Casillas, though probably the most highly touted rookie free agent, still has his work cut out for him in training camp. If he lives up to the hype then the Saints got away with robbery. Helping out on special teams will definitely give him the best chance at cracking the roster.

To be sure, this is going to be one of the most intriguing position competitions during training camp this year. What do you think is going to happen? Who are you most intrigued by? Will there be any surprises?

Poll

Which linebacker will be the biggest surprise?

Stanley Arnoux

100 votes

Jonathan Casillas

148 votes

Dan Morgan

370 votes

Anthony Waters

23 votes

Jo-Lonn Dunbar

103 votes

Marvin Mitchell

14 votes

758 votes | Poll has closed

Chargers Links 4/16

John (obviousman) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:10:46 -0000

Hello readers. I'd like to start with an apology. DaBolts has mostly left this blog and the transition period since has seen a slowdown in the number of posts and therefore a slowdown in participation. I have now taken the reins and will be the new Bolts From The Blue leader. You will see some changes in the coming days dealing with design and layout of the blog, but for the most part things will be business as usual. This should serve as a memo to you that you should start checking our little blog here as much as possible, because posts are going to be added multiple times a day and they're all going to need your input!

First order of business, the links. DaBolts did these on a fairly regular basis in the offseason but they've slowed recently. I will be putting them out each morning. Most of them will deal with the Chargers, with some major NFL news mixed in as well. As news happens throughout the day I may simply add the link into the morning post, so keep your eyes on it.

Anthony Waters signs a deal to play LB with the New Orleans Saints. Since he's now out of the division and conference, the best of luck to him.

Mike Mayock runs down the Chargers options on draft day and which positions they will need to address.

Finally, as always I'd like to stress to the readers that this is your blog and your community. So any ideas you guys have, anything you want done with the blog, let me know and I'll do my best to satisfy.

Recent Draft History: San Diego Chargers

Jeremy Bolander — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 20:00:10 -0000

2008 Draft:

1 (27) Antoine Cason, CB STARTER

A solid player and a sure tackler, he is developing nicely. If he can work on defensing passes more, he will turn out to be a pretty great pick, but even where he is at, the Chargers are geting what they are paying for.

3 (69) Jacob Hester, FB Backup

After a very slow start that would have made even Charger's fans ask who he was, Hester started to come into his own as the Charger's playoff push began. His hands and athleticism complement that Charger's offense very well, and his blocking got significantly better as the season wore on. If he continues to improve in the blocking game he should pan out as the ideal offensive weapon for the Charger's scheme.

5 (166) Marcus Thomas, RB Practice Squad/Browns

After being waived in training camp by the Chargers he was signed and subsequently waived by both the Lions,a nd then the Cowboys, who kept him on their practice squad for the 2008 season. He currently has signed a reserve/futures contract with the Cleveland Browns

6 (192) Dejuan Tribble, CB Backup

An exciting prospect with some injury history to overcome. The Chargers are being patient with him, and with decent depth on the rsoter ahead of him, they can afford to wait.

7 (234) Corey Clark, OT Backup

A good prospect who hasn't seen the field but could be a solid tackle. Of interest is that if he looks like he can step in at tackle, that could actually shift Jeromey Clarey inside where his strength would be utilized better, and would make the SD oline get younger in a hurry.

2007 Draft:

1 (30) Buster Davis, WR Backup

A young confident receiver who has just about used up his time in San Diego. He has struggled with consistency and injuries, but a recent surgery may help to correct a chronic groin problem for him. He will be expected to produce in 2009, and as a smart, big-time playmaker, the Chargers would be a lot better with him playing up to his full potential.

2 (37) Eric Weddle, S STARTER

A great tackler with some coverage issues, but overall a solid fill-in for a safety roster that is only now beginning to shape up, after several years of dysfunction. The closer they can move Weddle to the line, the better off they will be.

3 (96) Anthony Waters, LB Out of NFL

After missing his rookie season due to injury, and only logging 3 tackles in 8 games as a sophmore, the Chargers decided to part ways with the young LBer. Rumors of off-field incidents seem to have prompted the decision.

4 (129) Scott Chandler, TE Backup

3rd TE on San Diego may as well be the bottomless pit. Chandler has only had an opportunity to stand on the sidelines, watch, and learn, and in 2008, saw a preseason toe injury send him to IR for the year.

5 (172) Legedu Naanee, WR Backup

A young stud who is developing nicely into a YAC monster, but who can't consistently get on the field, due to depth at the position. He needs to step up and try to outplay the vets this year, but regardless of the training camp outcome, he is a solid player to have ont he roster.

6 (240) Brandon Siler, ILB Backup

The Charger's are hanging onto this role-player for now. he has been excellent in short yardage situations, where he is asked to disrupt the lanes and clog holes. If he can show the coaches he could be out on a few more downs, the Charger's could use him.

4 (28) Paul Oliver, CB Backup

Taken in the Supplemental draft, this very intelligent player was left to learn on his own for the 2007 season, but managed to step into some good plays in 2008, including an interception int eh endzone to help seal away the 2008 AFC West crown, and a playoff spot.

2006 Draft:

1 (19) Antonio Cromartie, CB STARTER

Though he performed very well behind the 2006 and 2007 pass rush, in 2008, with Merriman out and playing with a hip injury of his own, Cromartie showed that he isn't the most physical tackler and that his risk taking and playing off of receivers allows far too many completions in his area. Not the stellar player they thought he was, the Charger's look to be astutely waiting for his contract to come up, where he is as likely to wait as to stay, and with good prospects waiting in the wings, it seems like a really smart move.

2 (50) Marcus McNeill, OT STARTER

After a surprise Pro Bowl appearance had McNeill looking like the steal of the 06 draft, his play fell off some in 2007 and in 2008 a freak injury (stinger) that kept him out of four games seemed to have rattled him significantly, as he was up and down all season. The Chargers will be watching him closely to see if the issues linger, and if so, they will address the position sooner than later, since the opposite side of the line could use an upgrade.

3 (81) Charlie Whitehurst, QB Backup

Nothing to see here, just your standard issue, clip-board toting, third string QB....

5 (151) Tim Dobbins, ILB STARTER

A solid mid-round pick who got an opportunity to play in 2008 and brought some fierce tackling to the mix. He has issues in pass coverage, but still looks to be the leading candidate for the spot opposite Stephen Cooper in the middle.

6 (181) Jeromey Clary, T STARTER

This big bruiser isn't much of a technician at RT, and this could lead to his being moved inside to take over for the underperforming Mike Goff at RG. With a chance at T in the draft, and intriguing depth on the roster, the Chargers could consider this.

6 (182) Kurt Smith, K Out of NFL

An early pick on a kicker once again doesn't quite pan out. The Chargers cut him, the Saints gave him a look, and now he is a free agent.

7 (225) Chase Page, DT Backup/ Dolphins

After being sniped from the Chargers' practice squad, Page ended up spending 2008 on the Dolphins' IR.

7 (227) Jimmy Martin, T Out of NFL

Released by the Chargers, subsequently signed and released by the Patriots, currently out of the NFL.