Five quarterbacks who should be benched

Every NFL season features quarterbacks getting benched and, ultimately, coaches getting fired.

As training camp approaches and with every team in the valley of 0-0 and having a one-in-four chance (in theory) of winning the division and hosting a playoff game, optimism causes many fans to believe that their quarterback can — and will — not only survive but even thrive.

In some cities, the handwriting is already on the wall, plain to see for anyone who cares to notice. Let’s look at where the powers-that-be should pull the trigger now instead of later on benching their starting quarterbacks.

Jake Delhomme, Browns

Coach Eric Mangini recently said the starting job in Cleveland is Delhomme’s to lose. The sooner he does lose it, the better off the team will be.

Delhomme lost his fastball at some point during the 13 days between Week 17 of the 2008 regular season and the divisional round of the playoffs. Though the Browns regard it as an aberration, it’s unlikely that a guy would simply fall off the horse at an advanced stage of his career then find the stirrups again.

Of course, the Browns can’t simply bench Delhomme after signing him in the offseason and paying him $7 million. Maybe they just shouldn’t have signed him.

David Garrard doesn't have much support from the Jaguars after two seasons with 15 TD passes and double-digit interceptions.
David Garrard doesn’t have much support from the Jaguars after two seasons with 15 TD passes and double-digit interceptions.

David Garrard, Jaguars

The coach doesn’t really believe in him. The owner doesn’t really believe in him. So why in the heck is Garrard the Jaguars’ starting quarterback?

Of course, Garrard might be better than Luke McCown. But even if Garrard remains at the top of the depth chart, he should be on a short leash for 2010.

In turn, the Jaguars should have found a better option in the offseason. They clearly don’t love the guy. It makes no sense to keep him around.

Kyle Orton, Broncos

The decision to trade for Brady Quinn and to draft Tim Tebow hardly represents a vote of confidence for Orton, whose contract-year performance was rewarded with only a first-round restricted free-agent tender.

So why do the Broncos insist on keeping him at the top of the depth chart? If, somehow, he plays well in 2010, it’ll be harder to move on in 2011. The better move would be to get Tebow ready and get him on the field.

If the Broncos thought enough of Tebow to trade back into Round 1 to draft him, they simply should get him on the field.

Related Links

Matt Moore, Panthers

After cutting Delhomme, the Panthers handed the ball to Moore. Then the Panthers drafted a QB in Round 2 prepared to step in and play right away.

So why not just give Jimmy Clausen the ball right now?

If coach John Fox wants to stick around after 2010, he must show that Clausen can be the long-term answer at quarterback.

Matt Leinart, Cardinals

A top-10 pick in ’06, Leinart hasn’t been able to win and hold the job. Injured in ’07 after routinely being yanked for Kurt Warner when the going got tough, Leinart surprisingly landed on the bench shortly before the ’08 season. He then watched Warner cement his Hall of Fame credentials.

So it’s unclear why the team still has faith in Leinart. The best argument for keeping him on the field flows from the fact that the only other viable option is Derek Anderson.

The Cardinals should have aggressively pursued other options in the offseason, whether Donovan McNabb or Marc Bulger. Either way, Leinart isn’t the answer; the sooner the Cardinals figure that out, the better off they’ll be.

Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.

Every NFL season features quarterbacks getting benched and, ultimately, coaches getting fired.

As training camp approaches and with every team in the valley of 0-0 and having a one-in-four chance (in theory) of winning the division and hosting a playoff game, optimism causes many fans to believe that their quarterback can — and will — not only survive but even thrive.

In some cities, the handwriting is already on the wall, plain to see for anyone who cares to notice. Let’s look at where the powers-that-be should pull the trigger now instead of later on benching their starting quarterbacks.

Jake Delhomme, Browns

Coach Eric Mangini recently said the starting job in Cleveland is Delhomme’s to lose. The sooner he does lose it, the better off the team will be.

Delhomme lost his fastball at some point during the 13 days between Week 17 of the 2008 regular season and the divisional round of the playoffs. Though the Browns regard it as an aberration, it’s unlikely that a guy would simply fall off the horse at an advanced stage of his career then find the stirrups again.

Of course, the Browns can’t simply bench Delhomme after signing him in the offseason and paying him $7 million. Maybe they just shouldn’t have signed him.

David Garrard doesn't have much support from the Jaguars after two seasons with 15 TD passes and double-digit interceptions.
David Garrard doesn’t have much support from the Jaguars after two seasons with 15 TD passes and double-digit interceptions.

David Garrard, Jaguars

The coach doesn’t really believe in him. The owner doesn’t really believe in him. So why in the heck is Garrard the Jaguars’ starting quarterback?

Of course, Garrard might be better than Luke McCown. But even if Garrard remains at the top of the depth chart, he should be on a short leash for 2010.

In turn, the Jaguars should have found a better option in the offseason. They clearly don’t love the guy. It makes no sense to keep him around.

Kyle Orton, Broncos

The decision to trade for Brady Quinn and to draft Tim Tebow hardly represents a vote of confidence for Orton, whose contract-year performance was rewarded with only a first-round restricted free-agent tender.

So why do the Broncos insist on keeping him at the top of the depth chart? If, somehow, he plays well in 2010, it’ll be harder to move on in 2011. The better move would be to get Tebow ready and get him on the field.

If the Broncos thought enough of Tebow to trade back into Round 1 to draft him, they simply should get him on the field.

Related Links

Matt Moore, Panthers

After cutting Delhomme, the Panthers handed the ball to Moore. Then the Panthers drafted a QB in Round 2 prepared to step in and play right away.

So why not just give Jimmy Clausen the ball right now?

If coach John Fox wants to stick around after 2010, he must show that Clausen can be the long-term answer at quarterback.

Matt Leinart, Cardinals

A top-10 pick in ’06, Leinart hasn’t been able to win and hold the job. Injured in ’07 after routinely being yanked for Kurt Warner when the going got tough, Leinart surprisingly landed on the bench shortly before the ’08 season. He then watched Warner cement his Hall of Fame credentials.

So it’s unclear why the team still has faith in Leinart. The best argument for keeping him on the field flows from the fact that the only other viable option is Derek Anderson.

The Cardinals should have aggressively pursued other options in the offseason, whether Donovan McNabb or Marc Bulger. Either way, Leinart isn’t the answer; the sooner the Cardinals figure that out, the better off they’ll be.

Mike Florio writes and edits ProFootballTalk.com and is a regular contributor to Sporting News. Check out PFT for up-to-the minute NFL news.

2011 draft watch: Southern Cal fullback Havili in class of his own

With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: fullbacks.

1. Stanley Havili, 6-0/229, Southern Cal
He would have been the first fullback draft in ’10 but made the correct decision to return for his senior season. While fullbacks rarely are drafted high, Havili has the talent to be the exception if able to become a more consistent blocker. He is an athletic ballcarrier, able to run through contact and gain yardage. He also catches the ball well out of the backfield. He is not good enough to earn a living as a tailback but clearly is a level above the first fullback drafted in ’10—John Connor, selected by the Jets in the fifth round.

This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.

With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: fullbacks.

1. Stanley Havili, 6-0/229, Southern Cal
He would have been the first fullback draft in ’10 but made the correct decision to return for his senior season. While fullbacks rarely are drafted high, Havili has the talent to be the exception if able to become a more consistent blocker. He is an athletic ballcarrier, able to run through contact and gain yardage. He also catches the ball well out of the backfield. He is not good enough to earn a living as a tailback but clearly is a level above the first fullback drafted in ’10—John Connor, selected by the Jets in the fifth round.

This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.

2011 draft watch: Heisman winner Mark Ingram the only sure bet in class

With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: running backs.

Lande’s take: The list of the running backs likely to be in the 2011 draft is not nearly as impressive as the quarterback class. There are some interesting prospects but no sure-fire top 10 picks after Alabama’s Mark Ingram. However, with so many running backs playing a bigger role in NFL passing games, smaller guys like Penn State’s Evan Royster, West Virginia’s Noel Devine and Oregon State’s Jacquizz Rodgers hold more draft value than a decade ago.

After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior running backs entering the college season.

* — underclassman

1. Mark Ingram, 5-10/215, Alabama *
He is a strong and physical runner with rare instincts and vision. He is excellent at finding open spaces and making quick cuts to get through the hole. He runs with excellent body lean, gets his shoulders down to make himself a smaller target, runs through contact and gains yardage after contact. He will get downgraded by some personnel men because of his lack of elite speed, but we view him as an Emmitt Smith-like back with enough quickness and speed to be an elite NFL back.

2. DeMarco Murray, 6-1/216, Oklahoma
He is tough and competitive, consistently running through contact. Often runs upright but is improving at lowering his shoulder to deliver a blow to would-be tacklers. He shows the footwork and agility to make sharp jump-cuts and bounce runs outside. He shows the instincts to locate holes and burst through them. He has good—but not elite—speed and thus struggles to outrun defenders with the angle. He must learn to wrap up the ball better to avoid fumbling.

3. Graig Cooper, 6-0/205, Miami (Fla.)
He is versatile and productive as a ballcarrier, receiver and kickoff return man but is recovering from a Dec. 29 torn ACL. He is expected to play in ’10, but few players return to pre-injury form in the first year back from that injury. Cooper must stay healthy in ’10 and then show marked improvement at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. When healthy, Cooper has the athleticism, agility and elite speed to make big plays. He is an instinctive runner who finds the hole and has the explosiveness to score on any touch.

4. Daniel Thomas, 6-2/228, Kansas State
A junior college transfer, Thomas burst onto the scene in ’09. He is big and well built and keeps his legs churning and fights for every last yard, often dragging tacklers for extra yardage. He lacks the explosiveness or elite speed to excite personnel men but could have just enough to be an NFL power back.

5. Jacquizz Rodgers, 5-7/183, Oregon State
He is quick and explosive and makes big plays. He is an elusive back who makes would-be tacklers miss and turn short runs into touchdowns. He easily outruns defenders with the angle. He is short but well built, able to absorb hard hits and keep on going. Despite lack of size, he is a productive and durable feature back in college. He reminds us of the Chargers’ Darren Sproles.

6. Evan Royster, 6-0/209, Penn State
He lacks the speed to gain the corner, the elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field and the acceleration to be a big-play threat. He is most effective between the offensive tackles, securing the ball and breaking arm tackles and falling forward, but he is not in the mold of an NFL power back. In the passing game, he shows soft hands and the ability to adjust to off-target passes. He runs good routes out of the slot, too, often beating linebackers or safeties off the line. But he lacks the speed to run away from man-to-man coverage. He is smart enough to identify blitzers in pass protection and shows good strength to finish blocks.

7. Noel Devine, 5-7/174, West Virginia
He is lightning fast, a big-play threat in the return game and as a situational player on offense as a runner and receiver. He shows unmatched ability to change direction, explode through creases and score on any given play. Noel’s frame is a big concern, though. He is short and can get swallowed up by defenders. He will struggle to break arm tackles in the NFL. Durability is a definite concern. And he struggles to find open spaces in the red zone.

8. Da’Rel Scott, 5-11/195, Maryland
He is quick and explosive but got hurt last year and then had to share touches with Davin Meggett. However, Scott has many of the tools to make game-changing plays in the NFL if used correctly. He has the ability to find space and make would-be tacklers miss, contributing as a ballcarrier and receiver from different alignments. With a big senior season, Scott could fly up draft boards.

9. Roy Helu, 5-11/220, Nebraska
He was a big-time high school recruit who has developed into a good college back. He has a thick build with the size, strength and balance to run through contact and make big plays. He is a surprisingly good athlete, making sharp cuts to get through holes in a blink. Helu has the physical talent to be a high draft pick with a big senior season.

10. Kendall Hunter, 5-8/199, Oklahoma State
He is a short but thickly built back who was on the verge of becoming a star—leading the Big 12 in rushing in ’08—before struggling through an injury-filled ’09 season. He shows more quickness than pure speed, working surprisingly well in tight quarters. As a receiver, he is dangerous when getting a pass beyond the line of scrimmage because of his quickness, instincts and running skills. He must stay healthy and return to form in ’10. If he plays like he did in ’08, he could move into the third round.

This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.

With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. Next up: running backs.

Lande’s take: The list of the running backs likely to be in the 2011 draft is not nearly as impressive as the quarterback class. There are some interesting prospects but no sure-fire top 10 picks after Alabama’s Mark Ingram. However, with so many running backs playing a bigger role in NFL passing games, smaller guys like Penn State’s Evan Royster, West Virginia’s Noel Devine and Oregon State’s Jacquizz Rodgers hold more draft value than a decade ago.

After breaking down game film all summer, here is our scouts’ rankings for the top junior and senior running backs entering the college season.

* — underclassman

1. Mark Ingram, 5-10/215, Alabama *
He is a strong and physical runner with rare instincts and vision. He is excellent at finding open spaces and making quick cuts to get through the hole. He runs with excellent body lean, gets his shoulders down to make himself a smaller target, runs through contact and gains yardage after contact. He will get downgraded by some personnel men because of his lack of elite speed, but we view him as an Emmitt Smith-like back with enough quickness and speed to be an elite NFL back.

2. DeMarco Murray, 6-1/216, Oklahoma
He is tough and competitive, consistently running through contact. Often runs upright but is improving at lowering his shoulder to deliver a blow to would-be tacklers. He shows the footwork and agility to make sharp jump-cuts and bounce runs outside. He shows the instincts to locate holes and burst through them. He has good—but not elite—speed and thus struggles to outrun defenders with the angle. He must learn to wrap up the ball better to avoid fumbling.

3. Graig Cooper, 6-0/205, Miami (Fla.)
He is versatile and productive as a ballcarrier, receiver and kickoff return man but is recovering from a Dec. 29 torn ACL. He is expected to play in ’10, but few players return to pre-injury form in the first year back from that injury. Cooper must stay healthy in ’10 and then show marked improvement at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. When healthy, Cooper has the athleticism, agility and elite speed to make big plays. He is an instinctive runner who finds the hole and has the explosiveness to score on any touch.

4. Daniel Thomas, 6-2/228, Kansas State
A junior college transfer, Thomas burst onto the scene in ’09. He is big and well built and keeps his legs churning and fights for every last yard, often dragging tacklers for extra yardage. He lacks the explosiveness or elite speed to excite personnel men but could have just enough to be an NFL power back.

5. Jacquizz Rodgers, 5-7/183, Oregon State
He is quick and explosive and makes big plays. He is an elusive back who makes would-be tacklers miss and turn short runs into touchdowns. He easily outruns defenders with the angle. He is short but well built, able to absorb hard hits and keep on going. Despite lack of size, he is a productive and durable feature back in college. He reminds us of the Chargers’ Darren Sproles.

6. Evan Royster, 6-0/209, Penn State
He lacks the speed to gain the corner, the elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field and the acceleration to be a big-play threat. He is most effective between the offensive tackles, securing the ball and breaking arm tackles and falling forward, but he is not in the mold of an NFL power back. In the passing game, he shows soft hands and the ability to adjust to off-target passes. He runs good routes out of the slot, too, often beating linebackers or safeties off the line. But he lacks the speed to run away from man-to-man coverage. He is smart enough to identify blitzers in pass protection and shows good strength to finish blocks.

7. Noel Devine, 5-7/174, West Virginia
He is lightning fast, a big-play threat in the return game and as a situational player on offense as a runner and receiver. He shows unmatched ability to change direction, explode through creases and score on any given play. Noel’s frame is a big concern, though. He is short and can get swallowed up by defenders. He will struggle to break arm tackles in the NFL. Durability is a definite concern. And he struggles to find open spaces in the red zone.

8. Da’Rel Scott, 5-11/195, Maryland
He is quick and explosive but got hurt last year and then had to share touches with Davin Meggett. However, Scott has many of the tools to make game-changing plays in the NFL if used correctly. He has the ability to find space and make would-be tacklers miss, contributing as a ballcarrier and receiver from different alignments. With a big senior season, Scott could fly up draft boards.

9. Roy Helu, 5-11/220, Nebraska
He was a big-time high school recruit who has developed into a good college back. He has a thick build with the size, strength and balance to run through contact and make big plays. He is a surprisingly good athlete, making sharp cuts to get through holes in a blink. Helu has the physical talent to be a high draft pick with a big senior season.

10. Kendall Hunter, 5-8/199, Oklahoma State
He is a short but thickly built back who was on the verge of becoming a star—leading the Big 12 in rushing in ’08—before struggling through an injury-filled ’09 season. He shows more quickness than pure speed, working surprisingly well in tight quarters. As a receiver, he is dangerous when getting a pass beyond the line of scrimmage because of his quickness, instincts and running skills. He must stay healthy and return to form in ’10. If he plays like he did in ’08, he could move into the third round.

This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.

Mariners’ Bedard sees return this season as unlikely

Sporting News staff reports

Seattle Mariners left-hander Erik Bedard said Tuesday he "probably" won’t pitch this season.

Bedard told the Times’ Geoff Baker that an MRI exam on his surgically repaired pitching shoulder Tuesday did not reveal much positive news.

"You’ll have  to ask the doctor" as to what exactly the test revealed, Bedard told Baker after Seattle’s 4-0 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Baker reported Bedard will consult Dr. Lewis Yocum, who performed the surgery, and Dr. Edward Khalfayan, the Mariners’ medical director.

Bedard has been out almost a full calendar year; his last major league appearance was on July 25, 2009.

Sporting News staff reports

Seattle Mariners left-hander Erik Bedard said Tuesday he "probably" won’t pitch this season.

Bedard told the Times’ Geoff Baker that an MRI exam on his surgically repaired pitching shoulder Tuesday did not reveal much positive news.

"You’ll have  to ask the doctor" as to what exactly the test revealed, Bedard told Baker after Seattle’s 4-0 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Baker reported Bedard will consult Dr. Lewis Yocum, who performed the surgery, and Dr. Edward Khalfayan, the Mariners’ medical director.

Bedard has been out almost a full calendar year; his last major league appearance was on July 25, 2009.

2011 Draft Watch: If Andrew Luck comes out, he could top quarterback list

With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. First up: quarterbacks.
 
Lande’s take: There is more debate about the rankings of this quarterback class than there has been about classes of the recent past. If you ask four scouts, they will likely give you four different rankings of the top four QBs. There are widespread opinions about the rest of this class, too. Here is a breakdown of the top 10 quarterbacks entering the 2010 college season.
 
* — underclassman
 
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford *
A redshirt sophomore, Luck is a very athletic QB who had a remarkable freshman year. If he improves as much in 2010 as he did in ’09, he could be a candidate for the top pick in the draft. He has a good, strong arm and has shown excellent accuracy while displaying the ability to make all the necessary NFL throws. He is patient and poised in the pocket and does an excellent job of reading defenses. He also is adept at moving defenders around with his eyes to open up room for his receivers.
 
2. Christian Ponder, Florida State
Ponder is a redshirt senior who already has an undergraduate degree in finance and his MBA. He is well-built with very good athleticism and has consistently shown the ability to make big plays with his arm and legs.  He makes strong, accurate throws on all the passes NFL teams require. To take his game to the next level, however, he has to do a better job of identifying which throws need to be touch passes and which need to be gunned. With a strong senior season, he could move into the first round. Right now, he is a second- or third-rounder.
 
3. Jake Locker, Washington
Locker is a rare athlete with the ability to make game-changing plays with his arm or legs. He has a rocket arm and can make 20-plus yard throws downfield with uncommon zip. Based solely on 2009 film, he would be a third-round prospect. But if he improves as much in 2010 as he did in 2009 under new coach Steve Sarkisian, he could vault past all the other quarterbacks to the top of the 2011 draft.
 
4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
A transfer from Michigan who is a fourth-year junior, Mallet showed rare arm strength last year and flashed the passing skills to become an elite NFL quarterback.  He is far from a finished product. His footwork needs to improve and he needs to quicken his release and improve his accuracy, but all the physical tools are there. When he was on his game in 2009, he looked like he had the potential to become an elite NFL quarterback.
 
5. Pat Devlin, Delaware
Devlin is a tall, big-armed player who is coming off a strong first season as a college starter. He began his career at Penn State and backed up Daryll Clark before transferring to Delaware.  He has shown the ability to make strong and accurate throws all over the field, but he need to do a better job of getting the ball to the receiver just as he comes out of his break. He made some mistakes common to first-year starters and will have to boost his game to establish himself as an elite small-school prospect.
 
6. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
He is a big, athletic quarterback who has flashed the ability to make every NFL throw with zip and accuracy. If he can continue to improve, he has a chance to develop into an upper-echelon quarterback. He has the athleticism to make big plays with his legs and buy second chances in the pocket. Though he is clearly a step below the top four quarterbacks right now, he has a combination of physical skills that few prospects possess.
 
7. Nathan Enderle, Idaho
Enderle is a very good small-school prospect and has a chance to move up to the second or third round with a strong senior season. He is tall, with the thick build and strength to shake free from pass rushers and buy second chances. He has shown a big arm and the ability to make all the NFL throws, but he will have to prove he can make the big jump to the NFL.
 
8. Andy Dalton, TCU
He is shorter than ideal (just under 6-2) but is well-built with the arm strength and athleticism to make the jump to the NFL. There is little doubt he is a developmental player, but few prospects enter the NFL with Dalton’s combination of arm strength, toughness, competitiveness and excellent running skills. There is definitely upside to work with.
 
9. Colin Kaepernick, Nevada
Kaepernick is athletic and has been highly productive at Nevada, but he is a developmental prospect. Though he isn’t playing at a big-time program, he reminds us of Titans’ Vince Young based on his athleticism, raw mechanics and ability to make strong and accurate throws from awkward positions. With Kaepernick’s ability to carry his team, scouts think he could be one of the real surprises of the 2010 season.
 
10. Ricky Stanzi, Iowa
Stanzi is not a highly polished passer, but he has good size, athleticism, awareness and the knack for making plays in key situations. He is not a special talent, but he has everything it takes to be an excellent NFL backup. Quarterbacks like him often end up developing into solid, workmanlike starters after spending a number of seasons as a valued backup.
 
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
 
This story appears in July 14’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.
With the college football season approaching, it’s time to begin evaluating the talent pool for the 2011 draft. Sporting News draft expert Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts will take assess each position in the coming weeks. First up: quarterbacks.
 
Lande’s take: There is more debate about the rankings of this quarterback class than there has been about classes of the recent past. If you ask four scouts, they will likely give you four different rankings of the top four QBs. There are widespread opinions about the rest of this class, too. Here is a breakdown of the top 10 quarterbacks entering the 2010 college season.
 
* — underclassman
 
1. Andrew Luck, Stanford *
A redshirt sophomore, Luck is a very athletic QB who had a remarkable freshman year. If he improves as much in 2010 as he did in ’09, he could be a candidate for the top pick in the draft. He has a good, strong arm and has shown excellent accuracy while displaying the ability to make all the necessary NFL throws. He is patient and poised in the pocket and does an excellent job of reading defenses. He also is adept at moving defenders around with his eyes to open up room for his receivers.
 
2. Christian Ponder, Florida State
Ponder is a redshirt senior who already has an undergraduate degree in finance and his MBA. He is well-built with very good athleticism and has consistently shown the ability to make big plays with his arm and legs.  He makes strong, accurate throws on all the passes NFL teams require. To take his game to the next level, however, he has to do a better job of identifying which throws need to be touch passes and which need to be gunned. With a strong senior season, he could move into the first round. Right now, he is a second- or third-rounder.
 
3. Jake Locker, Washington
Locker is a rare athlete with the ability to make game-changing plays with his arm or legs. He has a rocket arm and can make 20-plus yard throws downfield with uncommon zip. Based solely on 2009 film, he would be a third-round prospect. But if he improves as much in 2010 as he did in 2009 under new coach Steve Sarkisian, he could vault past all the other quarterbacks to the top of the 2011 draft.
 
4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
A transfer from Michigan who is a fourth-year junior, Mallet showed rare arm strength last year and flashed the passing skills to become an elite NFL quarterback.  He is far from a finished product. His footwork needs to improve and he needs to quicken his release and improve his accuracy, but all the physical tools are there. When he was on his game in 2009, he looked like he had the potential to become an elite NFL quarterback.
 
5. Pat Devlin, Delaware
Devlin is a tall, big-armed player who is coming off a strong first season as a college starter. He began his career at Penn State and backed up Daryll Clark before transferring to Delaware.  He has shown the ability to make strong and accurate throws all over the field, but he need to do a better job of getting the ball to the receiver just as he comes out of his break. He made some mistakes common to first-year starters and will have to boost his game to establish himself as an elite small-school prospect.
 
6. Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
He is a big, athletic quarterback who has flashed the ability to make every NFL throw with zip and accuracy. If he can continue to improve, he has a chance to develop into an upper-echelon quarterback. He has the athleticism to make big plays with his legs and buy second chances in the pocket. Though he is clearly a step below the top four quarterbacks right now, he has a combination of physical skills that few prospects possess.
 
7. Nathan Enderle, Idaho
Enderle is a very good small-school prospect and has a chance to move up to the second or third round with a strong senior season. He is tall, with the thick build and strength to shake free from pass rushers and buy second chances. He has shown a big arm and the ability to make all the NFL throws, but he will have to prove he can make the big jump to the NFL.
 
8. Andy Dalton, TCU
He is shorter than ideal (just under 6-2) but is well-built with the arm strength and athleticism to make the jump to the NFL. There is little doubt he is a developmental player, but few prospects enter the NFL with Dalton’s combination of arm strength, toughness, competitiveness and excellent running skills. There is definitely upside to work with.
 
9. Colin Kaepernick, Nevada
Kaepernick is athletic and has been highly productive at Nevada, but he is a developmental prospect. Though he isn’t playing at a big-time program, he reminds us of Titans’ Vince Young based on his athleticism, raw mechanics and ability to make strong and accurate throws from awkward positions. With Kaepernick’s ability to carry his team, scouts think he could be one of the real surprises of the 2010 season.
 
10. Ricky Stanzi, Iowa
Stanzi is not a highly polished passer, but he has good size, athleticism, awareness and the knack for making plays in key situations. He is not a special talent, but he has everything it takes to be an excellent NFL backup. Quarterbacks like him often end up developing into solid, workmanlike starters after spending a number of seasons as a valued backup.
 
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
 
This story appears in July 14’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

Mistake by Mattingly aids in Giants’ rally against Dodgers

Sporting News staff reports

A mental error by Dodgers bench coach Don Mattingly proved costly Tuesday night.

Mattingly, serving as acting manager because Joe Torre had been ejected two innings earlier, was forced to remove closer Jonathan Broxton with the Dodgers leading the Giants in the ninth inning. The reason: Mattingly inadvertently made a second trip to the mound during the same visit.

San Francisco rallied for three runs against Broxton’s replacements and won the game, 7-5. Broxton was charged with the runs and the loss.

With one out and the bases loaded in the ninth, Mattingly conferred with Broxton and the Dodgers’ infielders on the mound. Mattingly left the mound, then turned and walked back toward Broxton. That constituted a second trip in the same inning, meaning Broxton had to leave the game.

Giants manager Bruce Bochy alerted home plate umpire Adrian Johnson, who conferred with the other three umps. Crew chief Tim McClelland eventually ruled Broxton had to be removed.

"Once you leave the dirt, you can’t go back," Bochy told CSN Bay Area after the game. In fact, Rule 8.06(d) states, in part: "A manager or coach is considered to have concluded his visit to the mound when he leaves the 18-foot circle surrounding the pitcher’s rubber."

Mattingly told reporters after the game he knew the rule, but didn’t realize he had left the dirt.

"I kind of had a feeling (it was a second trip) because Adrian was yelling ‘No, no, no. You can’t go back,’ as I turned to talk to James," he said. "It cost us a chance to win the game."

George Sherrill replaced Broxton after hastily warming up. Andres Torres doubled on Sherrill’s second pitch, giving San Francisco a 6-5 lead.

Mattingly then replaced Sherrill with Travis Schlichting, who had been warming up prior to Sherrill getting the call. After a fielder’s choice grounder, Buster Posey singled home Torres to put the Giants ahead 7-5.

San Francisco’s Jeremy Affedlt pitched a scoreless bottom of the ninth to secure the victory.

Bochy told CSN that this was the second time a Dodgers manager had made that mistake against his team. He didn’t give details, but according to SN research, Grady Little did it Aug. 23, 2006, when he had to remove Brad Penny in a game against the Padres, then managed by Bochy.

Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Sporting News staff reports

A mental error by Dodgers bench coach Don Mattingly proved costly Tuesday night.

Mattingly, serving as acting manager because Joe Torre had been ejected two innings earlier, was forced to remove closer Jonathan Broxton with the Dodgers leading the Giants in the ninth inning. The reason: Mattingly inadvertently made a second trip to the mound during the same visit.

San Francisco rallied for three runs against Broxton’s replacements and won the game, 7-5. Broxton was charged with the runs and the loss.

With one out and the bases loaded in the ninth, Mattingly conferred with Broxton and the Dodgers’ infielders on the mound. Mattingly left the mound, then turned and walked back toward Broxton. That constituted a second trip in the same inning, meaning Broxton had to leave the game.

Giants manager Bruce Bochy alerted home plate umpire Adrian Johnson, who conferred with the other three umps. Crew chief Tim McClelland eventually ruled Broxton had to be removed.

"Once you leave the dirt, you can’t go back," Bochy told CSN Bay Area after the game. In fact, Rule 8.06(d) states, in part: "A manager or coach is considered to have concluded his visit to the mound when he leaves the 18-foot circle surrounding the pitcher’s rubber."

Mattingly told reporters after the game he knew the rule, but didn’t realize he had left the dirt.

"I kind of had a feeling (it was a second trip) because Adrian was yelling ‘No, no, no. You can’t go back,’ as I turned to talk to James," he said. "It cost us a chance to win the game."

George Sherrill replaced Broxton after hastily warming up. Andres Torres doubled on Sherrill’s second pitch, giving San Francisco a 6-5 lead.

Mattingly then replaced Sherrill with Travis Schlichting, who had been warming up prior to Sherrill getting the call. After a fielder’s choice grounder, Buster Posey singled home Torres to put the Giants ahead 7-5.

San Francisco’s Jeremy Affedlt pitched a scoreless bottom of the ninth to secure the victory.

Bochy told CSN that this was the second time a Dodgers manager had made that mistake against his team. He didn’t give details, but according to SN research, Grady Little did it Aug. 23, 2006, when he had to remove Brad Penny in a game against the Padres, then managed by Bochy.

Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Report: Phillies working on big trades, perhaps involving Oswalt and Werth

Sporting News staff reports

The Phillies are pursuing a major trade for a starting pitcher, perhaps the Astros’ Roy Oswalt, and are working to deal right fielder Jayson Werth in a separate move, ESPN’s Jayson Stark reported Tuesday night.

Stark did not identify whom Philadelphia would acquire, but he reported the Phillies have been working on a deal for Oswalt, who has a full no-trade clause and as many as two-plus years remaining on his contract. Oswalt has said he’d waive his no-trade privilege to pitch for a contender.

AOL FanHouse’s Ed Price reported via Twitter that a source told him the Astros "may be close to putting the ball in [Oswalt’s] court" regarding a trade.

Oswalt, Diamondbacks right-hander Dan Haren, Cubs left-hander Ted Lilly and A’s righty Ben Sheets are among the top trade targets ahead of the July 31 nonwaiver deadline. Haren told FoxSportsArizona.com on Tuesday he’d waive his limited no-trade rights in the right deal, though he indicated he’d prefer to stay on the West Coast.

Earlier Tuesday, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro hinted to reporters that he’s working on acquiring an arm. He demoted fifth starter Kyle Kendrick to the minors without naming a replacement. Kendrick’s turn is due to come up Saturday.

"I think we know exactly what we’re going to do," Amaro told reporters. "I just choose not to tell you."

Amaro’s hand may have been forced Tuesday night when left-hander Jamie Moyer left his start after one inning because of an elbow strain.

Werth was batting .280 with 13 home runs, 50 RBIs and an .873 OPS entering Tuesday’s game, but he has struggled the past three weeks. He also can become a free agent after the season and is expected to command a huge contract. Stark reported the Rays appear to be the team most interested in Werth.

Sporting News staff reports

The Phillies are pursuing a major trade for a starting pitcher, perhaps the Astros’ Roy Oswalt, and are working to deal right fielder Jayson Werth in a separate move, ESPN’s Jayson Stark reported Tuesday night.

Stark did not identify whom Philadelphia would acquire, but he reported the Phillies have been working on a deal for Oswalt, who has a full no-trade clause and as many as two-plus years remaining on his contract. Oswalt has said he’d waive his no-trade privilege to pitch for a contender.

AOL FanHouse’s Ed Price reported via Twitter that a source told him the Astros "may be close to putting the ball in [Oswalt’s] court" regarding a trade.

Oswalt, Diamondbacks right-hander Dan Haren, Cubs left-hander Ted Lilly and A’s righty Ben Sheets are among the top trade targets ahead of the July 31 nonwaiver deadline. Haren told FoxSportsArizona.com on Tuesday he’d waive his limited no-trade rights in the right deal, though he indicated he’d prefer to stay on the West Coast.

Earlier Tuesday, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro hinted to reporters that he’s working on acquiring an arm. He demoted fifth starter Kyle Kendrick to the minors without naming a replacement. Kendrick’s turn is due to come up Saturday.

"I think we know exactly what we’re going to do," Amaro told reporters. "I just choose not to tell you."

Amaro’s hand may have been forced Tuesday night when left-hander Jamie Moyer left his start after one inning because of an elbow strain.

Werth was batting .280 with 13 home runs, 50 RBIs and an .873 OPS entering Tuesday’s game, but he has struggled the past three weeks. He also can become a free agent after the season and is expected to command a huge contract. Stark reported the Rays appear to be the team most interested in Werth.

Pre-camp Power Poll: Rankings complete with potential headaches

The New Jets and Dallas Cowboys reside at the top of Sporting News’ pre-training camp power poll, but other teams have realistic Super Bowl aspirations.

 
Is this their year? Coach Norv Turner and QB Philip Rivers have supporters.
Is this their year? Coach Norv Turner and QB Philip Rivers have supporters.

Take the San Diego Chargers, ranked No. 4, who have won four consecutive AFC West titles with no Super Bowl appearances to show for it. The Chargers remain a deep and versatile team, even with wide receiver Vincent Jackson and left tackle Marcus McNeill threatening extended holdouts because of contract disputes.

 
"The Chargers are a team that still has the talent to win it all," ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski said. "You can’t help but look at the Colts in the AFC, but there’s an ebb and flow to a team’s development and I think this could be the year for the Chargers. That disappointing playoff loss to the Jets last year was a learning experience.
 
"Philip Rivers is still learning as a quarterback, but he’s a heck of a player. I think this might be their time. They have the talent. Mentally, they just have to get over the hump."
 
The Chargers hope Tra Thomas or Brandyn Dombrowski can pick up the slack for McNeil if he sticks to his threat to hold out until Week 10. Even if Jackson reports, he will miss the season’s first three games under suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
 
Still, the Chargers have plenty of weapons, including Rivers, tight end Antonio Gates, wide receiver Malcolm Floyd, third-down back Darren Sproles and rookie running back Ryan Mathews, who will ease the loss of LaDainian Tomlinson to the Jets.
 
No need to throw a pity party for the Chargers. They could have another reason to party in February.
 
Potential headache: CB Darrelle Revis, C Nick Mangold and ILB David Harris all want new deals.
 
Potential headache: Doug Free might not be ready to replace Flozell Adams at left tackle.
 
Potential headache: Asking the Saints’ defense to force as many turnovers is asking too much.
 
Potential headache: If Jackson and McNeill really stay away, others will be under pressure to step up.
 
Potential headache: The offensive line might not be good enough to keep Brett Favre from getting battered.
 
Potential headache: The 3-4 defense that yielded 51 points in a playoff loss to Arizona still has question marks.
 
Potential headache: WR Reggie Wayne wants more money, although in Indianapolis these disputes rarely get out of hand.
 
Potential headache: They still must establish a consistent No. 2 receiver opposite Steve Smith.
 
Potential headache: The secondary could give up big plays, especially if injuries continue to hamper S Ed Reed.
 
Potential headache: Can they generate a consistent running game to balance
the offense?
 

11. New England Patriots

Potential headache: If their pass rush does not improve, their defense might
not either.
 
Potential headache: Alex Smith has yet to prove he is good enough to quarterback a team into postseason.
 
Potential headache: Another team that must reach hit opposing quarterbacks more often.
 
Potential headache: This team has gone young, and there could be some
growing pains.
 
Potential headache: The fallout from QB Ben Roethlisberger’s suspension—both his absence and the attention when he returns.
 
Potential headache: Does new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan have the right players to fit his system?
 
Potential headache: With QB Kurt Warner and WR Anquan Boldin gone, the offense figures to be less explosive.
 
Potential headache: If RB Chris Johnson does not match last year’s superlatives, the offense could suffer.
 
Potential headache: Their defense was shredded last season and must prove that it is not in decline.
 
Potential headache: The offense still could be short on playmakers to help QB Carson Palmer and WR Chad Ochocinco.
 
Potential headache: An offense that only scored more than 20 points four times last season might not be much better.
 
Potential headache: If QB Jay Cutler struggles early under Mike Martz’s guidance, Bears fans will not be forgiving.
 
Potential headache: They have three quarterbacks fighting to start, but not one is
very good.
 
Potential headache: Just because QB Jake Delhomme switched teams does not mean his play will improve.
 
Potential headache: It might take a young QB like Josh Freeman time to mesh with new receivers.
 
Potential headache: An unproven offensive line might make Donovan McNabb’s transition more difficult.
 
Potential headache: No telling if enough has been done defensively to improve a league-low 14 sacks from last season.
 
Potential headache:If Kyle Orton does not play well in preseason, a quarterback controversy will ensue.
 
Potential headache: Unless WR Dwayne Bowe has a bounce back year, QB Matt Cassel will long for a consistent No. 1 receiver.
 
Potential headache: If RB Darren McFadden is not ready to be a feature back, the running game could sputter.
 
Potential headache: The veterans they added defensively already might have played their best football elsewhere.
 
Potential headache: If they rush rookie QB Sam Bradford into the lineup, he might struggle learning under fire.
 
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

 
Senior writer Clifton Brown covers the NFL for Sporting News. E-mail him at cliftonbrown@sportingnews.com.

The New Jets and Dallas Cowboys reside at the top of Sporting News’ pre-training camp power poll, but other teams have realistic Super Bowl aspirations.

 
Is this their year? Coach Norv Turner and QB Philip Rivers have supporters.
Is this their year? Coach Norv Turner and QB Philip Rivers have supporters.

Take the San Diego Chargers, ranked No. 4, who have won four consecutive AFC West titles with no Super Bowl appearances to show for it. The Chargers remain a deep and versatile team, even with wide receiver Vincent Jackson and left tackle Marcus McNeill threatening extended holdouts because of contract disputes.

 
"The Chargers are a team that still has the talent to win it all," ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski said. "You can’t help but look at the Colts in the AFC, but there’s an ebb and flow to a team’s development and I think this could be the year for the Chargers. That disappointing playoff loss to the Jets last year was a learning experience.
 
"Philip Rivers is still learning as a quarterback, but he’s a heck of a player. I think this might be their time. They have the talent. Mentally, they just have to get over the hump."
 
The Chargers hope Tra Thomas or Brandyn Dombrowski can pick up the slack for McNeil if he sticks to his threat to hold out until Week 10. Even if Jackson reports, he will miss the season’s first three games under suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
 
Still, the Chargers have plenty of weapons, including Rivers, tight end Antonio Gates, wide receiver Malcolm Floyd, third-down back Darren Sproles and rookie running back Ryan Mathews, who will ease the loss of LaDainian Tomlinson to the Jets.
 
No need to throw a pity party for the Chargers. They could have another reason to party in February.
 
Potential headache: CB Darrelle Revis, C Nick Mangold and ILB David Harris all want new deals.
 
Potential headache: Doug Free might not be ready to replace Flozell Adams at left tackle.
 
Potential headache: Asking the Saints’ defense to force as many turnovers is asking too much.
 
Potential headache: If Jackson and McNeill really stay away, others will be under pressure to step up.
 
Potential headache: The offensive line might not be good enough to keep Brett Favre from getting battered.
 
Potential headache: The 3-4 defense that yielded 51 points in a playoff loss to Arizona still has question marks.
 
Potential headache: WR Reggie Wayne wants more money, although in Indianapolis these disputes rarely get out of hand.
 
Potential headache: They still must establish a consistent No. 2 receiver opposite Steve Smith.
 
Potential headache: The secondary could give up big plays, especially if injuries continue to hamper S Ed Reed.
 
Potential headache: Can they generate a consistent running game to balance
the offense?
 

11. New England Patriots

Potential headache: If their pass rush does not improve, their defense might
not either.
 
Potential headache: Alex Smith has yet to prove he is good enough to quarterback a team into postseason.
 
Potential headache: Another team that must reach hit opposing quarterbacks more often.
 
Potential headache: This team has gone young, and there could be some
growing pains.
 
Potential headache: The fallout from QB Ben Roethlisberger’s suspension—both his absence and the attention when he returns.
 
Potential headache: Does new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan have the right players to fit his system?
 
Potential headache: With QB Kurt Warner and WR Anquan Boldin gone, the offense figures to be less explosive.
 
Potential headache: If RB Chris Johnson does not match last year’s superlatives, the offense could suffer.
 
Potential headache: Their defense was shredded last season and must prove that it is not in decline.
 
Potential headache: The offense still could be short on playmakers to help QB Carson Palmer and WR Chad Ochocinco.
 
Potential headache: An offense that only scored more than 20 points four times last season might not be much better.
 
Potential headache: If QB Jay Cutler struggles early under Mike Martz’s guidance, Bears fans will not be forgiving.
 
Potential headache: They have three quarterbacks fighting to start, but not one is
very good.
 
Potential headache: Just because QB Jake Delhomme switched teams does not mean his play will improve.
 
Potential headache: It might take a young QB like Josh Freeman time to mesh with new receivers.
 
Potential headache: An unproven offensive line might make Donovan McNabb’s transition more difficult.
 
Potential headache: No telling if enough has been done defensively to improve a league-low 14 sacks from last season.
 
Potential headache:If Kyle Orton does not play well in preseason, a quarterback controversy will ensue.
 
Potential headache: Unless WR Dwayne Bowe has a bounce back year, QB Matt Cassel will long for a consistent No. 1 receiver.
 
Potential headache: If RB Darren McFadden is not ready to be a feature back, the running game could sputter.
 
Potential headache: The veterans they added defensively already might have played their best football elsewhere.
 
Potential headache: If they rush rookie QB Sam Bradford into the lineup, he might struggle learning under fire.
 
This story appears in July 21’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only digital sports daily, sign up today.

 
Senior writer Clifton Brown covers the NFL for Sporting News. E-mail him at cliftonbrown@sportingnews.com.

Rays’ Crawford leaves game after pickoff throw strikes him in the groin

BALTIMORE — Tampa Bay Rays All-Star outfielder Carl Crawford left Tuesday night’s game against the Baltimore Orioles after being struck in the groin with a pickoff throw to first base.

Crawford reached on a fielder’s choice in the top of the first and was leaning off the base when Orioles rookie Jake Arrieta threw toward first. First baseman Ty Wigginton missed the ball, which hit Crawford between the legs.

Crawford rolled off the base and was tagged out.

He remained doubled over for several minutes before finally walking off the field with help from trainer Ron Porterfield.

"Carl Crawford is one of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with," said Wigginton, who was a teammate of Crawford’s in 2006 and 2007. "He’s a true gamer, and if that guy don’t bounce up, it’s not good."

Crawford was later taken by ambulance to a hospital, where tests were negative. He was diagnosed with a testicular contusion and listed as day to day.

"You couldn’t hit it in a better spot. It just took the wind out of me," Crawford said. "Right now it’s real sore, but the doctor said there was no damage. I’m guessing I’ll take (Wednesday) off."

Crawford said he doesn’t wear a protective cup because it’s too restrictive, and he insisted he won’t change that practice.

Boston Red Sox third baseman Adrian Beltre suffered a torn testicle last August when he was struck by a ground ball. Like Crawford, Beltre was not wearing a cup. Beltre was on the disabled list for almost three weeks

Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

BALTIMORE — Tampa Bay Rays All-Star outfielder Carl Crawford left Tuesday night’s game against the Baltimore Orioles after being struck in the groin with a pickoff throw to first base.

Crawford reached on a fielder’s choice in the top of the first and was leaning off the base when Orioles rookie Jake Arrieta threw toward first. First baseman Ty Wigginton missed the ball, which hit Crawford between the legs.

Crawford rolled off the base and was tagged out.

He remained doubled over for several minutes before finally walking off the field with help from trainer Ron Porterfield.

"Carl Crawford is one of the toughest guys I’ve ever played with," said Wigginton, who was a teammate of Crawford’s in 2006 and 2007. "He’s a true gamer, and if that guy don’t bounce up, it’s not good."

Crawford was later taken by ambulance to a hospital, where tests were negative. He was diagnosed with a testicular contusion and listed as day to day.

"You couldn’t hit it in a better spot. It just took the wind out of me," Crawford said. "Right now it’s real sore, but the doctor said there was no damage. I’m guessing I’ll take (Wednesday) off."

Crawford said he doesn’t wear a protective cup because it’s too restrictive, and he insisted he won’t change that practice.

Boston Red Sox third baseman Adrian Beltre suffered a torn testicle last August when he was struck by a ground ball. Like Crawford, Beltre was not wearing a cup. Beltre was on the disabled list for almost three weeks

Copyright 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Report: Dodgers among suitors for Oswalt, Lilly

Sporting News staff reports

Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown reports the Dodgers have intensifited their efforts to trade for pitching help. Brown, citing unnamed sources, reports L.A. has inquired about Astros right-hander Roy Oswalt, Cubs left-hander Ted Lilly, Diamondbacks right-hander Dan Haren and Indians right-handers Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona.

L.A. also is among the many clubs interested in Blue Jays relievers Kevin Gregg, Scott Downs and Jason Frasor.

The Dodgers recalled right-hander James McDonald from Triple-A to start Monday night’s series opener against the Giants. McDonald replaced rookie John Ely, who faltered after having initial success. The rest of L.A.’s rotation consists of Clayton Kershaw, Chad Billingsley, Hiroki Kuroda and Vicente Padilla.

Sporting News staff reports

Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown reports the Dodgers have intensifited their efforts to trade for pitching help. Brown, citing unnamed sources, reports L.A. has inquired about Astros right-hander Roy Oswalt, Cubs left-hander Ted Lilly, Diamondbacks right-hander Dan Haren and Indians right-handers Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona.

L.A. also is among the many clubs interested in Blue Jays relievers Kevin Gregg, Scott Downs and Jason Frasor.

The Dodgers recalled right-hander James McDonald from Triple-A to start Monday night’s series opener against the Giants. McDonald replaced rookie John Ely, who faltered after having initial success. The rest of L.A.’s rotation consists of Clayton Kershaw, Chad Billingsley, Hiroki Kuroda and Vicente Padilla.