Now that Thursday’s franchise tag deadline has passed, we have a clearer picture of who is available — and who is not.
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton went off the market Thursday, re-signing for three years and around $21 million, with $11 million guaranteed.
LaDainian Tomlinson has been cut, but he might have to wait for a free-agent offer.
However, Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers and Arizona Cardinals linebacker Karlos Dansby are days from becoming free agents on March 5.
They could be joined by New York Jets running back Thomas Jones and Cardinals safety Antrel Rolle — two of the prominent veterans still in danger of being released. LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook have been cut, leaving them uncertain about their future.
"I’m like a guy coming into the league again," Tomlinson said Wednesday during an emotional press conference. "I just want an opportunity to prove that I can play."
Here is a rundown of some top players who appear headed to free agency:
Their phones will be blowing up
Gary Brackett, MLB, Indianapolis Colts: He wants to stay, but the Colts are running out of time to sign him by March 5. They will miss him if he signs elsewhere.
Karlos Dansby, ILB, Cardinals: A tackling machine in his prime, he can fit well into almost any defensive system. Don’t be surprised to see the Dolphins make a run at him.
Look for the Dolphins to jump into the bidding for tackling machine Karlos Dansby.
"I would say it (linebacker) is a need of the team," Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland told reporters Thursday at the Scouting Combine. "You got some age at the position right now. You got to get younger there, and (get) better performance on the field. Inside and outside are key positions for free agency and the draft."
Julius Peppers, DE, Panthers. He is the top player on the market, a premier pass rusher who can be dominant when motivated. Look for the Eagles and Patriots to come calling.
Dunta Robinson, CB, Houston Texans: He’s not a superstar, but he is a solid 27-year-old player at a valuable position. Both the Vikings and Ravens are looking for cornerback help and could be interested.
Darren Sharper, S, New Orleans Saints: He tied for the NFL lead in interceptions and was an integral part of a Super Bowl-winning defense. The Saints want him back, but by letting Sharper hit the open market, they risk letting a team like the Giants make an offer that Sharper can’t refuse.
They should land on their feet
Leigh Bodden, CB, New England Patriots: He wants to remain in New England, but can the two sides agree on a contract? He is only 28 and coming off a good season, so he will find suitors if things do not work out in New England.
Barring a pay cut, the Jets likely will let Thomas Jones walk. The Eagles are waiting.
Thomas Jones, RB, New York Jets: His situation is in flux because of money, not performance. Unless he agrees to a pay cut, the Jets are likely to release him and turn to Shonn Greene as their new starter. If the Jets decide to part ways with Jones, he could still be an effective complementary back for a team like the Eagles.
Derrick Mason, WR, Baltimore Ravens: He is the Ravens’ all-time leading receiver, has kept himself in great shape at age 36 and wants to return to Baltimore. However, he also wants at least a two-year deal. Even with the recent addition of Donte’ Stallworth, look for the Ravens to keep Mason in the fold.
Antrel Rolle, S, Cardinals: The Cardinals want to restructure his deal rather than pay the $4 million roster bonus he is due next week. For that reason, he may be cut. If he is, the Dolphins or the Bears should have strong interest.
Darren Sproles, RB, San Diego Chargers: He is a restricted free agent, but the Chargers are not expected to tender him an offer of $7.27 million to prevent him from hitting the market. His skills as a runner, pass catcher and returner would make him attractive to teams looking for a multi-purpose back. The Packers or Lions are potential landing spots.
Chester Taylor, RB, Minnesota Vikings: His agent is scheduled to meet with the Vikings at the Combine, so a deal may still be worked out. If not, a team like the Bears could use Taylor’s running and pass-catching skills.
Kevin Walter, WR, Texans: Walter, who will be 29 at the start of next season, has averaged almost 60 catches over the past three years. He could be a bargain as a possession receiver for a team like the Panthers or Broncos.
Their future is unclear
Kevin Mawae, C, Tennessee Titans: He still wants to start, but at 39, how much longer will he play?
Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills: His one-year stay in Buffalo did not work out well for him or the Bills. If the Bengals do not bite, maybe the Ravens, Bears or Jaguars will.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers: He turns 30 in November, and his numbers declined in each of the past three seasons. Aging NFL running backs are not highly coveted.
LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers: If the Vikings are not interested, he might have to wait awhile to get a shot.
Brian Westbrook, RB, Philadelphia Eagles: After two concussions last season, his durability is an issue.
This story appears in Feb. 26’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
Now that Thursday’s franchise tag deadline has passed, we have a clearer picture of who is available — and who is not.
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Casey Hampton went off the market Thursday, re-signing for three years and around $21 million, with $11 million guaranteed.
LaDainian Tomlinson has been cut, but he might have to wait for a free-agent offer.
However, Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers and Arizona Cardinals linebacker Karlos Dansby are days from becoming free agents on March 5.
They could be joined by New York Jets running back Thomas Jones and Cardinals safety Antrel Rolle — two of the prominent veterans still in danger of being released. LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook have been cut, leaving them uncertain about their future.
"I’m like a guy coming into the league again," Tomlinson said Wednesday during an emotional press conference. "I just want an opportunity to prove that I can play."
Here is a rundown of some top players who appear headed to free agency:
Their phones will be blowing up
Gary Brackett, MLB, Indianapolis Colts: He wants to stay, but the Colts are running out of time to sign him by March 5. They will miss him if he signs elsewhere.
Karlos Dansby, ILB, Cardinals: A tackling machine in his prime, he can fit well into almost any defensive system. Don’t be surprised to see the Dolphins make a run at him.
Look for the Dolphins to jump into the bidding for tackling machine Karlos Dansby.
"I would say it (linebacker) is a need of the team," Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland told reporters Thursday at the Scouting Combine. "You got some age at the position right now. You got to get younger there, and (get) better performance on the field. Inside and outside are key positions for free agency and the draft."
Julius Peppers, DE, Panthers. He is the top player on the market, a premier pass rusher who can be dominant when motivated. Look for the Eagles and Patriots to come calling.
Dunta Robinson, CB, Houston Texans: He’s not a superstar, but he is a solid 27-year-old player at a valuable position. Both the Vikings and Ravens are looking for cornerback help and could be interested.
Darren Sharper, S, New Orleans Saints: He tied for the NFL lead in interceptions and was an integral part of a Super Bowl-winning defense. The Saints want him back, but by letting Sharper hit the open market, they risk letting a team like the Giants make an offer that Sharper can’t refuse.
They should land on their feet
Leigh Bodden, CB, New England Patriots: He wants to remain in New England, but can the two sides agree on a contract? He is only 28 and coming off a good season, so he will find suitors if things do not work out in New England.
Barring a pay cut, the Jets likely will let Thomas Jones walk. The Eagles are waiting.
Thomas Jones, RB, New York Jets: His situation is in flux because of money, not performance. Unless he agrees to a pay cut, the Jets are likely to release him and turn to Shonn Greene as their new starter. If the Jets decide to part ways with Jones, he could still be an effective complementary back for a team like the Eagles.
Derrick Mason, WR, Baltimore Ravens: He is the Ravens’ all-time leading receiver, has kept himself in great shape at age 36 and wants to return to Baltimore. However, he also wants at least a two-year deal. Even with the recent addition of Donte’ Stallworth, look for the Ravens to keep Mason in the fold.
Antrel Rolle, S, Cardinals: The Cardinals want to restructure his deal rather than pay the $4 million roster bonus he is due next week. For that reason, he may be cut. If he is, the Dolphins or the Bears should have strong interest.
Darren Sproles, RB, San Diego Chargers: He is a restricted free agent, but the Chargers are not expected to tender him an offer of $7.27 million to prevent him from hitting the market. His skills as a runner, pass catcher and returner would make him attractive to teams looking for a multi-purpose back. The Packers or Lions are potential landing spots.
Chester Taylor, RB, Minnesota Vikings: His agent is scheduled to meet with the Vikings at the Combine, so a deal may still be worked out. If not, a team like the Bears could use Taylor’s running and pass-catching skills.
Kevin Walter, WR, Texans: Walter, who will be 29 at the start of next season, has averaged almost 60 catches over the past three years. He could be a bargain as a possession receiver for a team like the Panthers or Broncos.
Their future is unclear
Kevin Mawae, C, Tennessee Titans: He still wants to start, but at 39, how much longer will he play?
Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills: His one-year stay in Buffalo did not work out well for him or the Bills. If the Bengals do not bite, maybe the Ravens, Bears or Jaguars will.
Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers: He turns 30 in November, and his numbers declined in each of the past three seasons. Aging NFL running backs are not highly coveted.
LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers: If the Vikings are not interested, he might have to wait awhile to get a shot.
Brian Westbrook, RB, Philadelphia Eagles: After two concussions last season, his durability is an issue.
This story appears in Feb. 26’s edition of Sporting News Today. If you are not receiving Sporting News Today, the only daily digital sports newspaper, sign up today.
Pitchers and catchers reported last week, but my spring training begins today. A seven-day stint in Phoenix followed by a long stretch in Florida. In addition to sunshine, easy deadlines and guzzling Publix sweet tea straight from the jug, there’s plenty I can’t wait to see:
Torii Hunter. I want to ask him if the Angels still should be favorites in the AL West. Yes, I already know his answer, too. I also know this: He will be smiling. Any time you talk to Hunter, you walk away feeling better about the game.
Stephen Strasburg pitch. His Grapefruit League debut is set for March 9 against the Tigers in Viera, Fla. A Tuesday game in early March typically does not draw a big crowd unless it involves the Yankees and/or Red Sox. Not much with Strasburg, however, is typical.
Aroldis Chapman has wowed the Reds so far.
Aroldis Chapman pitch. He wowed the Reds during his first session of live batting practice. Too bad there is no chance that Strasburg and Chapman will pitch in the same exhibition now that the Reds have moved to Arizona. Also, too bad for the Nationals that the Reds swooped in and landed the young lefthander. Otherwise, word out of Nationals camp is that Chapman could have been in the same rotation with Strasburg.
A Tigers game at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. An area outside the clubhouses down the right-field line is ideal for hanging out and snagging interviews. On a good day, you can sit at a table with Al Kaline. Last year, Yogi Berra was there, too, when the Yankees visited. First impression: How could someone that small have become so big?
Ken Griffey Jr. hold court in the Mariners’ clubhouse. Last year, Junior brought Ichiro out of a thaw. This year, he will work with Milton Bradley. No wonder the Mariners don’t care if Griffey doesn’t hit .300 anymore.
Braves prospect Jason Heyward take batting practice. Dale Murphy told me that unlike most young players, Heyward doesn’t use batting practice to see how far he can hit the ball. Oh, well. Should be fun, anyway.
Charlie Manuel watch batting practice behind the batting cage. Watch for just a little while and it is obvious that this is what Manuel was meant to do. Vin Scully behind a microphone could not be any more comfortable.
C.J. Wilson try to make the Rangers’ rotation. Not satisfied with being the club’s steadiest reliever, the lefthander has convinced Nolan Ryan and Co. to give him a chance to start. All he has to do is be one of the two best starters in camp to have a chance. If you don’t follow Wilson, you should — as much for his Tweets (str8edgeracer) as his twirling.
Neftali Feliz try to make the Rangers’ rotation.. If the 21-year-old isn’t their best pitcher today, he will be this time next year. If Wilson and Feliz have big springs, the Texas brain trust will have some interesting discussions in Surprise, Ariz.
Bobby Cox kick back in the dugout at Disney. In his spikes, as always.
Mark McGwire talk hitting. He has been in Cardinals’ camp only a week and perception already is changing. Maybe he can coach, after all. We should have figured. Tony La Russa would not set up McGwire to fail.
Jose Reyes at 100 percent. Baseball needs his smile. The Mets need his game.
Joe Maddon always has something interesting to say.
All the weight changes. Nowadays, more guys show up lighter than heavier. Russell Martin, however, has added 25 pounds, according to the Los Angeles Times. All muscle, of course. Among the reported losers: Andruw Jones (25 pounds), Aaron Cook (20), Anibal Sanchez (15), Aaron Rowand (10), Geovany Soto (a lot). Maybe the losers will inspire me.
A Joe Maddon session with reporters. You usually learn something, and not just about the Rays.
CC Sabathia shoot 3-pointers at an Orlando Magic game. Hey, it happened last year. Joba Chamberlain and Chien-Ming Wang took the court, too. I don’t remember if it was before or after the game, but I do remember they looked like big kids at the playground. I also remember thinking the backboard might need replacing after being hit by so many bricks.
The A’s work out at Papago Park. Talk about the way it should be. Nowhere can fans get closer to the action, plus an area between the fields and the clubhouses makes it easy for fans to walk right up to players. That doesn’t happen in Tampa.
The media lunch spread at a Braves game. You knew a baseball writer couldn’t do one of these columns without mentioning food.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Pitchers and catchers reported last week, but my spring training begins today. A seven-day stint in Phoenix followed by a long stretch in Florida. In addition to sunshine, easy deadlines and guzzling Publix sweet tea straight from the jug, there’s plenty I can’t wait to see:
Torii Hunter. I want to ask him if the Angels still should be favorites in the AL West. Yes, I already know his answer, too. I also know this: He will be smiling. Any time you talk to Hunter, you walk away feeling better about the game.
Stephen Strasburg pitch. His Grapefruit League debut is set for March 9 against the Tigers in Viera, Fla. A Tuesday game in early March typically does not draw a big crowd unless it involves the Yankees and/or Red Sox. Not much with Strasburg, however, is typical.
Aroldis Chapman has wowed the Reds so far.
Aroldis Chapman pitch. He wowed the Reds during his first session of live batting practice. Too bad there is no chance that Strasburg and Chapman will pitch in the same exhibition now that the Reds have moved to Arizona. Also, too bad for the Nationals that the Reds swooped in and landed the young lefthander. Otherwise, word out of Nationals camp is that Chapman could have been in the same rotation with Strasburg.
A Tigers game at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. An area outside the clubhouses down the right-field line is ideal for hanging out and snagging interviews. On a good day, you can sit at a table with Al Kaline. Last year, Yogi Berra was there, too, when the Yankees visited. First impression: How could someone that small have become so big?
Ken Griffey Jr. hold court in the Mariners’ clubhouse. Last year, Junior brought Ichiro out of a thaw. This year, he will work with Milton Bradley. No wonder the Mariners don’t care if Griffey doesn’t hit .300 anymore.
Braves prospect Jason Heyward take batting practice. Dale Murphy told me that unlike most young players, Heyward doesn’t use batting practice to see how far he can hit the ball. Oh, well. Should be fun, anyway.
Charlie Manuel watch batting practice behind the batting cage. Watch for just a little while and it is obvious that this is what Manuel was meant to do. Vin Scully behind a microphone could not be any more comfortable.
C.J. Wilson try to make the Rangers’ rotation. Not satisfied with being the club’s steadiest reliever, the lefthander has convinced Nolan Ryan and Co. to give him a chance to start. All he has to do is be one of the two best starters in camp to have a chance. If you don’t follow Wilson, you should — as much for his Tweets (str8edgeracer) as his twirling.
Neftali Feliz try to make the Rangers’ rotation.. If the 21-year-old isn’t their best pitcher today, he will be this time next year. If Wilson and Feliz have big springs, the Texas brain trust will have some interesting discussions in Surprise, Ariz.
Bobby Cox kick back in the dugout at Disney. In his spikes, as always.
Mark McGwire talk hitting. He has been in Cardinals’ camp only a week and perception already is changing. Maybe he can coach, after all. We should have figured. Tony La Russa would not set up McGwire to fail.
Jose Reyes at 100 percent. Baseball needs his smile. The Mets need his game.
Joe Maddon always has something interesting to say.
All the weight changes. Nowadays, more guys show up lighter than heavier. Russell Martin, however, has added 25 pounds, according to the Los Angeles Times. All muscle, of course. Among the reported losers: Andruw Jones (25 pounds), Aaron Cook (20), Anibal Sanchez (15), Aaron Rowand (10), Geovany Soto (a lot). Maybe the losers will inspire me.
A Joe Maddon session with reporters. You usually learn something, and not just about the Rays.
CC Sabathia shoot 3-pointers at an Orlando Magic game. Hey, it happened last year. Joba Chamberlain and Chien-Ming Wang took the court, too. I don’t remember if it was before or after the game, but I do remember they looked like big kids at the playground. I also remember thinking the backboard might need replacing after being hit by so many bricks.
The A’s work out at Papago Park. Talk about the way it should be. Nowhere can fans get closer to the action, plus an area between the fields and the clubhouses makes it easy for fans to walk right up to players. That doesn’t happen in Tampa.
The media lunch spread at a Braves game. You knew a baseball writer couldn’t do one of these columns without mentioning food.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Signed as a free agent this offseason, new Mets left fielder Jason Bay recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
‘If I get out there 150-plus times, my numbers will be there,’ Jason Bay says.
Having played in Boston will help me a ton moving to New York.
When I was traded from Pittsburgh to Boston, the difference was like, boom. There’s always an electricity at Fenway — every game matters so much. Like everyone who hasn’t had that opportunity, I wondered if I could handle it. After having that experience, it would be tough to go back to the old situation.
My expectations are the same as always. I will try to play as many games as I can. If I get out there 150-plus times, my numbers will be there. I can’t do that without having good guys around me. On this team, there’s not one or two guys expected to carry the team every day, and that helps us all.
People are hesitant to keep bringing up how many injuries this team had last year because it sounds like an excuse. As an outsider coming in, I can tell you it’s the truth. Talentwise, this team stacks up against anybody. It’s the same team that many people picked to go far in the playoffs before last year.
Everybody realizes we need to pitch better. We have arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Johan Santana, and behind him, there’s a lot of talent. Maybe they underachieved last year, but that stuff happens. What you hope is that it happened all at once for everybody and now it’s out of their system.
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
Signed as a free agent this offseason, new Mets left fielder Jason Bay recently spoke with Sporting News’ Stan McNeal about his new team:
‘If I get out there 150-plus times, my numbers will be there,’ Jason Bay says.
Having played in Boston will help me a ton moving to New York.
When I was traded from Pittsburgh to Boston, the difference was like, boom. There’s always an electricity at Fenway — every game matters so much. Like everyone who hasn’t had that opportunity, I wondered if I could handle it. After having that experience, it would be tough to go back to the old situation.
My expectations are the same as always. I will try to play as many games as I can. If I get out there 150-plus times, my numbers will be there. I can’t do that without having good guys around me. On this team, there’s not one or two guys expected to carry the team every day, and that helps us all.
People are hesitant to keep bringing up how many injuries this team had last year because it sounds like an excuse. As an outsider coming in, I can tell you it’s the truth. Talentwise, this team stacks up against anybody. It’s the same team that many people picked to go far in the playoffs before last year.
Everybody realizes we need to pitch better. We have arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Johan Santana, and behind him, there’s a lot of talent. Maybe they underachieved last year, but that stuff happens. What you hope is that it happened all at once for everybody and now it’s out of their system.
This story first appeared in the February 15 edition of Sporting News magazine. If you are not receiving the magazine, subscribe today, or pick up a copy, available at most Barnes & Noble, Borders and Hudson Retail outlets.
Stan McNeal is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at smcneal@sportingnews.com.
What was the best moment of the Mets’ 2009 campaign? Probably the last moment — the final out of a season in which so many things went wrong that it would have been comical if it weren’t so sad. But that is over, and the Mets have reason for optimism in 2010. Jason Bay signed a four-year deal with the club, and Jose Reyes, arguably baseball’s most exciting player before he landed on the disabled list, is healthy and ready to go.
Three questions
A healthy and productive Oliver Perez is key to the Mets’ postseason hopes.
1. Is Bay the solution to the great power outage of 2009?
Daniel Murphy led the Mets with 12 homers last season. Every other major league team had at least two players with 12 or more homers, and 27 of the 30 teams had at least four players with 12 or more homers. There were a number of factors that contributed to the Mets’ MLB-worst 95 homers: the new ballpark, injuries to Reyes and Carlos Beltran and an unexplained drop in power from David Wright. The third baseman went from 33 homers in 2008 to 10 in 2009 despite playing in 144 games.
Bay certainly will help the offensive production — he clubbed 36 homers and drove in 119 runs for the Red Sox last season — but he isn’t a savior. To get back into the playoff conversation, the Mets need Reyes, Beltran and Wright to stay healthy and produce at their historical levels.
2. What should they expect from Oliver Perez?
If you don’t expect anything, you can’t be disappointed, right? That is the ideal way for Mets fans — and the front office — to approach Perez in 2010, but it isn’t realistic. Mets fans know that a healthy and productive Perez is key to any sort of playoff push. Members of the team’s front office will agree with that sentiment, and they owe Perez $24 million over the next two seasons. Therefore, the Mets have pulled out all the stops to get him back on track, including lining up tutoring sessions with the great Sandy Koufax this spring.
"(Perez is) a back-end-of-the-rotation-type starter," one NL scout said. "He was bothered nearly all season by his right knee, which required surgery. … That injury hampered his velocity and diminished his already questionable control. Perez had been able to throw strikes early in games, but the tendinitis prevented him from having the delay in his delivery, impacting the control and limiting his velocity."
3. Can they survive Beltran’s absence?
Beltran was hitting .336 with a .952 OPS when he was forced to the disabled list because of a knee injury in late June. He returned in September, long after the Mets were out of contention, and appeared to be healthy. But Beltran will miss at least the first month of the 2010 season after offseason knee surgery.
Manager Jerry Manuel likely will drop Reyes to the No. 3 spot in the batting order, and Angel Pagan and Gary Matthews Jr. will compete for the center field job. With the Phillies favored to win a third consecutive NL East title and the Braves and Marlins expected to contend for the wild card, there isn’t much margin of error for the Mets. One bad month might be too much to overcome.
Projected lineup
1. CF Angel Pagan:.306 AVG in 88 games in ’09.
2. 1B Daniel Murphy: Hit .291 after July.
3. SS Jose Reyes: Hamstring limited him to 36 games.
4. 3B David Wright: Career-low .837 OPS last season.
5. LF Jason Bay: 36 HRs, 119 RBIs were career bests.
6. RF Jeff Francoeur: .311 AVG after trade to Mets.
7. C Rod Barajas: 19 HRs, 71 RBIs for Blue Jays.
8. 2B Luis Castillo: Bounce-back season (.387 OBP) in ’09.
Projected rotation
1. LHP Johan Santana: Run support (3.89) was 9th-worst in MLB.
2. RHP Mike Pelfrey: Led team in starts (31), IP (184 1/3).
3. RHP John Maine: 4.01 career ERA with Mets (88 games).
4. LHP Oliver Perez: 6.92 ERA, 1.92 WHIP in 14 starts.
5. RHP Fernando Nieve: 3.12 ERA in seven ’09 starts.
Projected closer
RHP Francisco Rodriguez. Career-worst 3.71 ERA last season.
Grades
Offense: C. It was anemic (671 runs) last season, but the addition of Bay and the return of Reyes — and the eventual return of Beltran — will help. If Reyes and Beltran are healthy and if Wright rediscovers his power stoke, this could be an A-type group.
Pitching: C. The ever-effective Johan Santana leads a rotation that has more questions than certainties. Mike Pelfrey was the only Met to start more than 25 games last season, but the team didn’t upgrade the rotation by acquiring an established starter in the offseason. Closer Francisco Rodriguez was effective — but far from dominant — in his first season with the Mets.
Bench: B. Fernando Tatis and Mike Jacobs will provide some pop. Assuming Pagan wins the temporary center field job, Matthews will give the bench a solid defensive outfielder who can play all three spots. Alex Cora is one of the majors’ best backup middle infielders.
Manager: C. Considering all of the injuries with which his club had to deal, it is hard to accurately judge the job Manuel did in his first full season as Mets manager. And he will have his hands full early this season, juggling the lineup until Beltran returns.
Sporting News prediction: If healthy, the Mets’ offense should improve dramatically. The pitching staff has too many questions, however, to expect anything more than a third-place finish in the NL East.
Coming Friday: Nationals preview.
Ryan Fagan is a staff writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com.
What was the best moment of the Mets’ 2009 campaign? Probably the last moment — the final out of a season in which so many things went wrong that it would have been comical if it weren’t so sad. But that is over, and the Mets have reason for optimism in 2010. Jason Bay signed a four-year deal with the club, and Jose Reyes, arguably baseball’s most exciting player before he landed on the disabled list, is healthy and ready to go.
Three questions
A healthy and productive Oliver Perez is key to the Mets’ postseason hopes.
1. Is Bay the solution to the great power outage of 2009?
Daniel Murphy led the Mets with 12 homers last season. Every other major league team had at least two players with 12 or more homers, and 27 of the 30 teams had at least four players with 12 or more homers. There were a number of factors that contributed to the Mets’ MLB-worst 95 homers: the new ballpark, injuries to Reyes and Carlos Beltran and an unexplained drop in power from David Wright. The third baseman went from 33 homers in 2008 to 10 in 2009 despite playing in 144 games.
Bay certainly will help the offensive production — he clubbed 36 homers and drove in 119 runs for the Red Sox last season — but he isn’t a savior. To get back into the playoff conversation, the Mets need Reyes, Beltran and Wright to stay healthy and produce at their historical levels.
2. What should they expect from Oliver Perez?
If you don’t expect anything, you can’t be disappointed, right? That is the ideal way for Mets fans — and the front office — to approach Perez in 2010, but it isn’t realistic. Mets fans know that a healthy and productive Perez is key to any sort of playoff push. Members of the team’s front office will agree with that sentiment, and they owe Perez $24 million over the next two seasons. Therefore, the Mets have pulled out all the stops to get him back on track, including lining up tutoring sessions with the great Sandy Koufax this spring.
"(Perez is) a back-end-of-the-rotation-type starter," one NL scout said. "He was bothered nearly all season by his right knee, which required surgery. … That injury hampered his velocity and diminished his already questionable control. Perez had been able to throw strikes early in games, but the tendinitis prevented him from having the delay in his delivery, impacting the control and limiting his velocity."
3. Can they survive Beltran’s absence?
Beltran was hitting .336 with a .952 OPS when he was forced to the disabled list because of a knee injury in late June. He returned in September, long after the Mets were out of contention, and appeared to be healthy. But Beltran will miss at least the first month of the 2010 season after offseason knee surgery.
Manager Jerry Manuel likely will drop Reyes to the No. 3 spot in the batting order, and Angel Pagan and Gary Matthews Jr. will compete for the center field job. With the Phillies favored to win a third consecutive NL East title and the Braves and Marlins expected to contend for the wild card, there isn’t much margin of error for the Mets. One bad month might be too much to overcome.
Projected lineup
1. CF Angel Pagan:.306 AVG in 88 games in ’09.
2. 1B Daniel Murphy: Hit .291 after July.
3. SS Jose Reyes: Hamstring limited him to 36 games.
4. 3B David Wright: Career-low .837 OPS last season.
5. LF Jason Bay: 36 HRs, 119 RBIs were career bests.
6. RF Jeff Francoeur: .311 AVG after trade to Mets.
7. C Rod Barajas: 19 HRs, 71 RBIs for Blue Jays.
8. 2B Luis Castillo: Bounce-back season (.387 OBP) in ’09.
Projected rotation
1. LHP Johan Santana: Run support (3.89) was 9th-worst in MLB.
2. RHP Mike Pelfrey: Led team in starts (31), IP (184 1/3).
3. RHP John Maine: 4.01 career ERA with Mets (88 games).
4. LHP Oliver Perez: 6.92 ERA, 1.92 WHIP in 14 starts.
5. RHP Fernando Nieve: 3.12 ERA in seven ’09 starts.
Projected closer
RHP Francisco Rodriguez. Career-worst 3.71 ERA last season.
Grades
Offense: C. It was anemic (671 runs) last season, but the addition of Bay and the return of Reyes — and the eventual return of Beltran — will help. If Reyes and Beltran are healthy and if Wright rediscovers his power stoke, this could be an A-type group.
Pitching: C. The ever-effective Johan Santana leads a rotation that has more questions than certainties. Mike Pelfrey was the only Met to start more than 25 games last season, but the team didn’t upgrade the rotation by acquiring an established starter in the offseason. Closer Francisco Rodriguez was effective — but far from dominant — in his first season with the Mets.
Bench: B. Fernando Tatis and Mike Jacobs will provide some pop. Assuming Pagan wins the temporary center field job, Matthews will give the bench a solid defensive outfielder who can play all three spots. Alex Cora is one of the majors’ best backup middle infielders.
Manager: C. Considering all of the injuries with which his club had to deal, it is hard to accurately judge the job Manuel did in his first full season as Mets manager. And he will have his hands full early this season, juggling the lineup until Beltran returns.
Sporting News prediction: If healthy, the Mets’ offense should improve dramatically. The pitching staff has too many questions, however, to expect anything more than a third-place finish in the NL East.
Coming Friday: Nationals preview.
Ryan Fagan is a staff writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at rfagan@sportingnews.com.
Sporting News staff reports
Stephen Strasburg will make his first exhibition start March 9; when will the Nationals’ top prospect make his first regular-season start?
Nats president Stan Kasten isn’t ready to put a date on that. He tells MLB.com that Strasburg and fellow phenim Drew Storen will be promoted "as soon as they can make it up here reliably."
"We will not bring them up sooner than they are able, and we will not leave them down (in the minor leagues) longer than they need to be down there," Kasten adds.
Still, Kasten is eagerly anticipating Strasburg’s spring debut against the Tigers in Viera, Fla.
"You can’t help but be exited and intrigued by all the interest that has surrounded him. Having been down this road a lot in the past, I know when to temper my expectations — to give things time and not to get too excited.
"It’s hard not to get too excited. You are not only watching with your eyes, you are also listening to people who have been in baseball for decades making observations that match what you are seeing.
"If Stephen could carry that forward to the Major Leagues, it will be an exciting time for all of us, especially our fans. We have to keep our fingers crossed."
Strasburg, projected to be the Nats’ future ace, was the first overall selection in the 2009 draft; Storen, the team’s closer of the future, was chosen with the 10th pick.
Sporting News staff reports
Stephen Strasburg will make his first exhibition start March 9; when will the Nationals’ top prospect make his first regular-season start?
Nats president Stan Kasten isn’t ready to put a date on that. He tells MLB.com that Strasburg and fellow phenim Drew Storen will be promoted "as soon as they can make it up here reliably."
"We will not bring them up sooner than they are able, and we will not leave them down (in the minor leagues) longer than they need to be down there," Kasten adds.
Still, Kasten is eagerly anticipating Strasburg’s spring debut against the Tigers in Viera, Fla.
"You can’t help but be exited and intrigued by all the interest that has surrounded him. Having been down this road a lot in the past, I know when to temper my expectations — to give things time and not to get too excited.
"It’s hard not to get too excited. You are not only watching with your eyes, you are also listening to people who have been in baseball for decades making observations that match what you are seeing.
"If Stephen could carry that forward to the Major Leagues, it will be an exciting time for all of us, especially our fans. We have to keep our fingers crossed."
Strasburg, projected to be the Nats’ future ace, was the first overall selection in the 2009 draft; Storen, the team’s closer of the future, was chosen with the 10th pick.
Sporting News staff reports
Lance Berkman is preparing himself mentally to leave the Astros after this season.
The slugging first baseman
tells the Houston Chronicle he "may have to" find another team after 2010, "whether I like it or not." The Astros have a $15 million club option for 2011, with a $2 million buyout.
"If they don’t pick up my option, then to me that says they may like me to come back at a discount but they don’t really want me," Berkman tells the newspaper. "If that’s the case, then I’ll just see what else is out there."
He hinted that he might even consider retiring ("If they don’t pick it up, I’ll probably take my ball and go home."), although the Chronicle speculated that it’s more likely Berkman would continue playing. Berkman was drafted by the Astros out of Rice University and he wants to finish his career in Houston. He has full no-trade protection.
Berkman is coming off a down year statistically: a career-low .274 average, 25 home runs and 80 RBIs.
"This will be my 12th year, so, heck, if I had 11 great years, that would be unusual," he tells the Chronicle. "You’re going to have a couple of years when things don’t go well and last year was one of them. I don’t expect it’s going to have a lasting impact."
Sporting News staff reports
Lance Berkman is preparing himself mentally to leave the Astros after this season.
The slugging first baseman
tells the Houston Chronicle he "may have to" find another team after 2010, "whether I like it or not." The Astros have a $15 million club option for 2011, with a $2 million buyout.
"If they don’t pick up my option, then to me that says they may like me to come back at a discount but they don’t really want me," Berkman tells the newspaper. "If that’s the case, then I’ll just see what else is out there."
He hinted that he might even consider retiring ("If they don’t pick it up, I’ll probably take my ball and go home."), although the Chronicle speculated that it’s more likely Berkman would continue playing. Berkman was drafted by the Astros out of Rice University and he wants to finish his career in Houston. He has full no-trade protection.
Berkman is coming off a down year statistically: a career-low .274 average, 25 home runs and 80 RBIs.
"This will be my 12th year, so, heck, if I had 11 great years, that would be unusual," he tells the Chronicle. "You’re going to have a couple of years when things don’t go well and last year was one of them. I don’t expect it’s going to have a lasting impact."
Sporting News staff reports
A year after reporting to spring training with a slimmed-down look, Dodgers catcher Russell Martin packed on about 25 pounds this offseason, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Martin told the newspaper he’s up to 231 pounds, and he added that he might add a few more pounds during the season.
The decision to bulk back up came after Martin set career lows with a .250 batting average, seven homers and 53 RBIs in 2009. In fact, he didn’t homer until June 20. In 2007, Martin established career highs in homers (19), RBIs (87) and batting average (.293).
The newspaper reported that the 5-foot-10 Martin’s weight gain didn’t come in the form of fat. Instead, he did more power lifting, did some intense training and was less strict with his diet.
"It’s not like I’m eating pizza every day now," he said. "It’s just that if I have a steak, I’m not afraid to eat a potato with that."
Sporting News staff reports
A year after reporting to spring training with a slimmed-down look, Dodgers catcher Russell Martin packed on about 25 pounds this offseason, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Martin told the newspaper he’s up to 231 pounds, and he added that he might add a few more pounds during the season.
The decision to bulk back up came after Martin set career lows with a .250 batting average, seven homers and 53 RBIs in 2009. In fact, he didn’t homer until June 20. In 2007, Martin established career highs in homers (19), RBIs (87) and batting average (.293).
The newspaper reported that the 5-foot-10 Martin’s weight gain didn’t come in the form of fat. Instead, he did more power lifting, did some intense training and was less strict with his diet.
"It’s not like I’m eating pizza every day now," he said. "It’s just that if I have a steak, I’m not afraid to eat a potato with that."
This is the fourth in a series of position-by-position analyses of the best players who may be available on the NFL’s open market when free agency opens on March 5:
This Charger won’t bolt
LaDainian Tomlinson won’t be back in San Diego, and there’s a chance younger Chargers such as Darren Sproles and Antonio Cromartie will join him in cost-cutting moves.
Chargers unlikely to let left tackle Marcus McNeill hit the market.
One key Charger that figures to be around for a long time, however, is left tackle Marcus McNeill, Philip Rivers’ most valuable protector. Chargers defensive end Luis Castillo knows just how talented McNeill is, having faced him in practice for years.
"His combination of size and speed is extremely rare in this league — even among the best at his position," Castillo said. "He can handle the outside speed along with the power counters most great rushers use to get guys off-balance."
Saints’ trade bait?
As is the case with every Super Bowl champion, there are some tough personnel decisions to be made. New Orleans has a good "problem" to solve at left tackle.
Jammal Brown (a two-time Pro Bowler who missed last season after hip and sports hernia surgeries) and Jermon Bushrod (who filled in admirably as Drew Brees’ blind-side protector) are set to become restricted free agents.
Brown’s credentials will translate to a much bigger contract, so the Saints need to decide whether it’s better to invest their money elsewhere. Even though Brown is coming off significant injuries, some good offers are bound to come in for him.
Not to be left out
Along with New Orleans, Green Bay and Arizona were two of the NFC’s most prolific passing teams last season. Both teams have underrated left tackles of their own who will be on the market.
Part of the reason the Packers allowed a league-high 51 sacks was Chad Clifton¹s health issues. He was banged up and had to play through injuries most of the season. Clifton, 33, missed four games, including the pair against Minnesota in which the Vikings racked up 14 sacks.
"When Chad doesn’t play and Jared Allen has a big day working on his backup, that says a lot," Bears defensive end Adewale Ogunleye said. "They missed him."
Ogunleye also is familiar with Cardinals left tackle Mike Gandy, his former Bears teammate in 2004. Over the past two seasons, Gandy, 31, a former guard, did a solid job of helping keep Kurt Warner upright.
Gandy is also coming off injury troubles in 2009 and can be had at a bargain price. He doesn’t have the most impressive skills, but his experience is a big plus.
"At first it looks like you can get by him, but then he does a good job of getting in front of you," Ogunleye said. "He holds his own pretty well."
Feeling guarded
The market for interior linemen isn’t as good. The best right guard is the Falcons’ Harvey Dahl, a tough run and pass blocker who has a nasty streak. But Atlanta won’t let him go, especially since he will be a restricted free agent.
Patriots left guard Logan Mankins — a durable, dependable two-time Pro Bowler — is in the same situation. The question is whether the team re-signs him to a long-term deal.
Mankins’ teammate, right guard Stephen Neal, is unrestricted, but he hasn’t played a full season since 2005. At 33, Neal likely will end up back in New England if he doesn’t opt to retire.
A sleeper at the position is the Browns’ Rex Hadnot, who played well down the stretch. "He’s got good experience playing all across the line at guard and center," an NFC team scout said.
Hadnot isn’t a big name, but at 28, he might be the best available option inside.
The top 10
1. Marcus McNeill, T, Chargers*
2. Jammal Brown, T, Saints*
3. Jared Gaither, T, Ravens (RFA)
4. Harvey Dahl, G, Falcons*
5. Logan Mankins, G, Patriots*
6. Tyson Clabo, T, Falcons*
7. Chad Clifton, T, Packers (UFA)
8. Charlie Johnson, T, Colts*
9. Mike Gandy, T, Cardinals (UFA)
10. Rex Hadnot, G, Browns (UFA)
UFA=will be an unrestricted free agent
RFA=restricted free agent
*=will be restricted without new CBA
… And one more to watch
Kevin Mawae, C, Titans: Mawae, 39, is coming off his eighth Pro Bowl season and remains a strong, durable center at 6-4, 289. He’s a good leader and run blocker, and Tennessee is allowing him to test the market. He wants to start, and he should get that opportunity from a young team that needs a savvy interior lineman.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
This is the fourth in a series of position-by-position analyses of the best players who may be available on the NFL’s open market when free agency opens on March 5:
This Charger won’t bolt
LaDainian Tomlinson won’t be back in San Diego, and there’s a chance younger Chargers such as Darren Sproles and Antonio Cromartie will join him in cost-cutting moves.
Chargers unlikely to let left tackle Marcus McNeill hit the market.
One key Charger that figures to be around for a long time, however, is left tackle Marcus McNeill, Philip Rivers’ most valuable protector. Chargers defensive end Luis Castillo knows just how talented McNeill is, having faced him in practice for years.
"His combination of size and speed is extremely rare in this league — even among the best at his position," Castillo said. "He can handle the outside speed along with the power counters most great rushers use to get guys off-balance."
Saints’ trade bait?
As is the case with every Super Bowl champion, there are some tough personnel decisions to be made. New Orleans has a good "problem" to solve at left tackle.
Jammal Brown (a two-time Pro Bowler who missed last season after hip and sports hernia surgeries) and Jermon Bushrod (who filled in admirably as Drew Brees’ blind-side protector) are set to become restricted free agents.
Brown’s credentials will translate to a much bigger contract, so the Saints need to decide whether it’s better to invest their money elsewhere. Even though Brown is coming off significant injuries, some good offers are bound to come in for him.
Not to be left out
Along with New Orleans, Green Bay and Arizona were two of the NFC’s most prolific passing teams last season. Both teams have underrated left tackles of their own who will be on the market.
Part of the reason the Packers allowed a league-high 51 sacks was Chad Clifton¹s health issues. He was banged up and had to play through injuries most of the season. Clifton, 33, missed four games, including the pair against Minnesota in which the Vikings racked up 14 sacks.
"When Chad doesn’t play and Jared Allen has a big day working on his backup, that says a lot," Bears defensive end Adewale Ogunleye said. "They missed him."
Ogunleye also is familiar with Cardinals left tackle Mike Gandy, his former Bears teammate in 2004. Over the past two seasons, Gandy, 31, a former guard, did a solid job of helping keep Kurt Warner upright.
Gandy is also coming off injury troubles in 2009 and can be had at a bargain price. He doesn’t have the most impressive skills, but his experience is a big plus.
"At first it looks like you can get by him, but then he does a good job of getting in front of you," Ogunleye said. "He holds his own pretty well."
Feeling guarded
The market for interior linemen isn’t as good. The best right guard is the Falcons’ Harvey Dahl, a tough run and pass blocker who has a nasty streak. But Atlanta won’t let him go, especially since he will be a restricted free agent.
Patriots left guard Logan Mankins — a durable, dependable two-time Pro Bowler — is in the same situation. The question is whether the team re-signs him to a long-term deal.
Mankins’ teammate, right guard Stephen Neal, is unrestricted, but he hasn’t played a full season since 2005. At 33, Neal likely will end up back in New England if he doesn’t opt to retire.
A sleeper at the position is the Browns’ Rex Hadnot, who played well down the stretch. "He’s got good experience playing all across the line at guard and center," an NFC team scout said.
Hadnot isn’t a big name, but at 28, he might be the best available option inside.
The top 10
1. Marcus McNeill, T, Chargers*
2. Jammal Brown, T, Saints*
3. Jared Gaither, T, Ravens (RFA)
4. Harvey Dahl, G, Falcons*
5. Logan Mankins, G, Patriots*
6. Tyson Clabo, T, Falcons*
7. Chad Clifton, T, Packers (UFA)
8. Charlie Johnson, T, Colts*
9. Mike Gandy, T, Cardinals (UFA)
10. Rex Hadnot, G, Browns (UFA)
UFA=will be an unrestricted free agent
RFA=restricted free agent
*=will be restricted without new CBA
… And one more to watch
Kevin Mawae, C, Titans: Mawae, 39, is coming off his eighth Pro Bowl season and remains a strong, durable center at 6-4, 289. He’s a good leader and run blocker, and Tennessee is allowing him to test the market. He wants to start, and he should get that opportunity from a young team that needs a savvy interior lineman.
Vinnie Iyer is a writer for Sporting News. E-mail him at viyer@sportingnews.com.
Let the testing begin. The Scouting Combine kicked off Wednesday with interviews of offensive linemen, tight ends, kickers and punters. Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts examine players who need to step up in a specific area to help their stock in Indianapolis.
Arm strength
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas. During the season, McCoy’s arm strength was a question mark. Now, after injuring his right shoulder in the national championship game, he must prove he has enough of an arm to be more than a backup.
Sean Canfield, QB, Oregon State. On film, he showed a strong enough arm. But at the Senior Bowl, his release was slow and his passes lacked zip. He must reverse that perception in Indianapolis or he could end up falling to the sixth or seventh round.
The scouts at this week’s Combine will have one question in mind for Terrence Cody: Can he keep his weight under control?
Interviews
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. Clausen needs to prove he is a mature kid who can handle the pressure of being a team leader in the NFL and deal with the adversity that comes with being a high draft pick.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon. Blount must make teams believe he is not a bad kid but rather an immature one who made a few mistakes in college.
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida. He has to answer two questions: Does he have his off-field behavior under control? Why does his effort and intensity vary so much during games?
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama. Cody must convince teams he will be able to control his weight once he gets money in his pocket. He didn’t allay those fears at the Senior Bowl.
Junior Galette, DE, Stillman. Gallette showed at the Texas vs. the Nation game that he has big-time athleticism and pass-rush skills. Now, he must convince teams that his off-field behavior is not going to be a consistent problem.
Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State. Cox is a very gifted cornerback with the size, strength, athleticism and instincts to be a late first-round or high second-round pick. But if he can’t convince teams that his off-field issues are a thing of the past, he will be a mid-round pick at best.
Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse. After flashing big-play ability and putting up good numbers in the first half of the 2009 season, Williams left the team. He must convince teams he is not going to be a distraction.
Physicals
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma. Few question Bradford’s ability as a passer, but if his shoulder does not check out he is not going to be a top-10 pick.
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. Clausen’s toe/foot injury needs to check out completely for him to realistically challenge Bradford for the top QB spot in the draft.
Jahvid Best, RB, Cal. Best needs to get a clean bill of health. Otherwise, teams will be nervous about drafting a smaller back who has had concussion issues.
Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona. Gronkowski is a big, physical prospect who, in our view, is clearly the top tight end in the draft. After missing his junior season with a back injury, however, he must check out physically to prove his back will not be a long-term issue.
A quick 40 could boost Damian Williams’ draft stock.
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma. He is another highly-regarded prospect who missed the 2009 season due to injury. He needs his knee to pass inspection to merit late first-round, early second-round consideration.
40 times
Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford. Gerhart is a very good prospect, but there are concerns he lacks the explosiveness and speed to be a consistently effective outside runner and take runs the distance. A great 40 could vault Gerhart from second- and third-round consideration into the late first round.
Charles Scott, RB, LSU. He is a big, physical back whose strength is breaking tackles to gain yards after contact. However, there are concerns about his ability to make the quick cut and explode through the hole. Scott needs a strong 40 time and to do well in the vertical jump to ease those concerns.
Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee. Hardesty is a highly competitive runner who runs strong and aggressively. But he has not shown quickness and burst through the hole or the speed to take plays the distance, which causes running backs to fall down draft boards. He needs a good 40 to ease concerns.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon. Not only does Blount need to shine in interviews, but he needs to prove he has the quickness, burst and acceleration that he flashed at the Senior Bowl.
Damian Williams, WR, USC. Williams is a very quick, smooth and sharp receiver who was much better than expected when we evaluated his play on film. He consistently showed the ability to make big plays despite not showing top-level explosiveness or speed. With a good 40 and vertical jump, he can convince teams he has legitimate big-play ability.
Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU. LaFell struggled through a tough 2009 season in which he failed to cement himself as a first-round pick. If he does not run under a 4.60 40, his draft stock could slide into the third or fourth round.
Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas. Briscoe was a highly productive receiver at Kansas and consistently made many big plays, but he has not shown explosiveness and top-end speed. Many scouts feel his big plays were more the result of Kansas’ wide open passing attack, so Briscoe must show he can run.
Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse. It’s important for him to show he can run for a big receiver, though it’s not as important as his interview.
Anthony McCoy, TE, USC. McCoy displayed smooth, fluid athleticism and very good hands at the Senior Bowl. But he did not show elite speed, so he needs to put up a good 40 to convince teams he can be a productive receiving tight end.
Jason Pierre-Paul needs to concentrate on a solid overall workout in order to convince teams he can play at the next level.
Workouts
Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami. In 2009, Graham played football for the first time since ninth grade and is one of the most talked about prospects right now. But he must prove he has elite athleticism to sustain his ascent and challenge for a spot in the second or third round.
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers. He is a thickly built and strong tackle prospect, and teams want to get a close look at him to determine whether he has the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL or if he is merely a right tackle.
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland. Campbell is a highly regarded tackle prospect who flashes big-time athleticism but does not show it consistently. During his workout, he needs to prove he has elite athletic ability if he hopes to challenge Oklahoma State’s Russell Okung and Oklahoma’s Trent Williams as the top tackle.
Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas. Petrus has shown good athletic ability on film but did not display it consistently at the Senior Bowl. He needs to prove he has it in his workout if he wants to be drafted as early as the third round.
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida. He is getting raves about his rare explosiveness and athleticism, which could allow him to develop into a very dangerous pass rusher. But he must prove it in his workout to maintain his draft status because his on-field play is still raw and lacks consistency.
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida. No one doubts Dunlap’s combination of size, long arms, quickness and speed, but his tendency to play upright and straight-legged and his inability to consistently change directions quickly have led some to think he is a straight-line athlete who lacks good all-around athleticism. He must shine in his workout to make sure he is considered an elite athlete who just lacks consistency.
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU. Hughes is an undersized end who lacks great explosiveness off the ball, so he needs a big workout to convince teams he has the athleticism to stand up and play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Otherwise, he will likely be classified only as a 4-3 end, which could really hurt his draft status.
Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas. In each game last season, Houston’s play improved and he showed the quickness, agility and athleticism to defeat blocks and make plays. But at the Senior Bowl, he looked ordinary as an athlete. To be drafted higher than the fourth round, he must prove he is the athlete he showed on film.
Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama. Because he is very smart and instinctive, McClain is able to consistently play quicker and faster than his timed speed. Still, he needs to run well and work out well to prove to teams he has the athleticism to be productive outside of the hash marks and in coverage.
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida. Spikes is a similar player to McClain and needs to work out well to show he can play sideline-to-sideline and cover well.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
Let the testing begin. The Scouting Combine kicked off Wednesday with interviews of offensive linemen, tight ends, kickers and punters. Russ Lande and his team of former NFL scouts examine players who need to step up in a specific area to help their stock in Indianapolis.
Arm strength
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas. During the season, McCoy’s arm strength was a question mark. Now, after injuring his right shoulder in the national championship game, he must prove he has enough of an arm to be more than a backup.
Sean Canfield, QB, Oregon State. On film, he showed a strong enough arm. But at the Senior Bowl, his release was slow and his passes lacked zip. He must reverse that perception in Indianapolis or he could end up falling to the sixth or seventh round.
The scouts at this week’s Combine will have one question in mind for Terrence Cody: Can he keep his weight under control?
Interviews
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. Clausen needs to prove he is a mature kid who can handle the pressure of being a team leader in the NFL and deal with the adversity that comes with being a high draft pick.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon. Blount must make teams believe he is not a bad kid but rather an immature one who made a few mistakes in college.
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida. He has to answer two questions: Does he have his off-field behavior under control? Why does his effort and intensity vary so much during games?
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama. Cody must convince teams he will be able to control his weight once he gets money in his pocket. He didn’t allay those fears at the Senior Bowl.
Junior Galette, DE, Stillman. Gallette showed at the Texas vs. the Nation game that he has big-time athleticism and pass-rush skills. Now, he must convince teams that his off-field behavior is not going to be a consistent problem.
Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State. Cox is a very gifted cornerback with the size, strength, athleticism and instincts to be a late first-round or high second-round pick. But if he can’t convince teams that his off-field issues are a thing of the past, he will be a mid-round pick at best.
Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse. After flashing big-play ability and putting up good numbers in the first half of the 2009 season, Williams left the team. He must convince teams he is not going to be a distraction.
Physicals
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma. Few question Bradford’s ability as a passer, but if his shoulder does not check out he is not going to be a top-10 pick.
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame. Clausen’s toe/foot injury needs to check out completely for him to realistically challenge Bradford for the top QB spot in the draft.
Jahvid Best, RB, Cal. Best needs to get a clean bill of health. Otherwise, teams will be nervous about drafting a smaller back who has had concussion issues.
Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona. Gronkowski is a big, physical prospect who, in our view, is clearly the top tight end in the draft. After missing his junior season with a back injury, however, he must check out physically to prove his back will not be a long-term issue.
A quick 40 could boost Damian Williams’ draft stock.
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma. He is another highly-regarded prospect who missed the 2009 season due to injury. He needs his knee to pass inspection to merit late first-round, early second-round consideration.
40 times
Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford. Gerhart is a very good prospect, but there are concerns he lacks the explosiveness and speed to be a consistently effective outside runner and take runs the distance. A great 40 could vault Gerhart from second- and third-round consideration into the late first round.
Charles Scott, RB, LSU. He is a big, physical back whose strength is breaking tackles to gain yards after contact. However, there are concerns about his ability to make the quick cut and explode through the hole. Scott needs a strong 40 time and to do well in the vertical jump to ease those concerns.
Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee. Hardesty is a highly competitive runner who runs strong and aggressively. But he has not shown quickness and burst through the hole or the speed to take plays the distance, which causes running backs to fall down draft boards. He needs a good 40 to ease concerns.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Oregon. Not only does Blount need to shine in interviews, but he needs to prove he has the quickness, burst and acceleration that he flashed at the Senior Bowl.
Damian Williams, WR, USC. Williams is a very quick, smooth and sharp receiver who was much better than expected when we evaluated his play on film. He consistently showed the ability to make big plays despite not showing top-level explosiveness or speed. With a good 40 and vertical jump, he can convince teams he has legitimate big-play ability.
Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU. LaFell struggled through a tough 2009 season in which he failed to cement himself as a first-round pick. If he does not run under a 4.60 40, his draft stock could slide into the third or fourth round.
Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas. Briscoe was a highly productive receiver at Kansas and consistently made many big plays, but he has not shown explosiveness and top-end speed. Many scouts feel his big plays were more the result of Kansas’ wide open passing attack, so Briscoe must show he can run.
Mike Williams, WR, Syracuse. It’s important for him to show he can run for a big receiver, though it’s not as important as his interview.
Anthony McCoy, TE, USC. McCoy displayed smooth, fluid athleticism and very good hands at the Senior Bowl. But he did not show elite speed, so he needs to put up a good 40 to convince teams he can be a productive receiving tight end.
Jason Pierre-Paul needs to concentrate on a solid overall workout in order to convince teams he can play at the next level.
Workouts
Jimmy Graham, TE, Miami. In 2009, Graham played football for the first time since ninth grade and is one of the most talked about prospects right now. But he must prove he has elite athleticism to sustain his ascent and challenge for a spot in the second or third round.
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers. He is a thickly built and strong tackle prospect, and teams want to get a close look at him to determine whether he has the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL or if he is merely a right tackle.
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland. Campbell is a highly regarded tackle prospect who flashes big-time athleticism but does not show it consistently. During his workout, he needs to prove he has elite athletic ability if he hopes to challenge Oklahoma State’s Russell Okung and Oklahoma’s Trent Williams as the top tackle.
Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas. Petrus has shown good athletic ability on film but did not display it consistently at the Senior Bowl. He needs to prove he has it in his workout if he wants to be drafted as early as the third round.
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida. He is getting raves about his rare explosiveness and athleticism, which could allow him to develop into a very dangerous pass rusher. But he must prove it in his workout to maintain his draft status because his on-field play is still raw and lacks consistency.
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida. No one doubts Dunlap’s combination of size, long arms, quickness and speed, but his tendency to play upright and straight-legged and his inability to consistently change directions quickly have led some to think he is a straight-line athlete who lacks good all-around athleticism. He must shine in his workout to make sure he is considered an elite athlete who just lacks consistency.
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU. Hughes is an undersized end who lacks great explosiveness off the ball, so he needs a big workout to convince teams he has the athleticism to stand up and play outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Otherwise, he will likely be classified only as a 4-3 end, which could really hurt his draft status.
Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas. In each game last season, Houston’s play improved and he showed the quickness, agility and athleticism to defeat blocks and make plays. But at the Senior Bowl, he looked ordinary as an athlete. To be drafted higher than the fourth round, he must prove he is the athlete he showed on film.
Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama. Because he is very smart and instinctive, McClain is able to consistently play quicker and faster than his timed speed. Still, he needs to run well and work out well to prove to teams he has the athleticism to be productive outside of the hash marks and in coverage.
Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida. Spikes is a similar player to McClain and needs to work out well to show he can play sideline-to-sideline and cover well.
Former NFL scout Russ Lande evaluates college players for Sporting News’ Pro Football War Room and GM Jr. Scouting LLC.
