Falcons Release Warrick Dunn
The Falcons have released RB Warrick Dunn. The team wasted no time in dumping a disgruntled Dunn after they just signed Michael Turner. The Lions are reportedly interested in bringing Dunn in for a look, but it's not known how he would fit in their offense. Dunn is past his prime as a big time fantasy player, but might fit a need as a RB4 if he finds the right NFL team.
Free Agent Signings
Friday was the first day for NFL teams to sign free agents this offseason and the signings continue to roll in. Some players signed big fat contracts, while others were just happy to be employed. If you want to see all of the big news.
Player News
The Seahawks are reportedly close to signing RB T.J. Duckett. We aren't sure where Duckett fits in the Seahawks' offense, especially with RB Shaun Alexander and RB Maurice Morris already in the mix. He could battle for the backup spot, but ignore him for now.
TE Alge Crumpler and the Titans have reportedly agreed on a two-year deal. After it was refuted by Crumpler's agent that he had signed on Sunday night, a deal now appears set. Crumpler was highly thought of entering the '07 season, but the troubles in Atlanta left him with a very poor season. He chose Tennessee because he believes Vince Young plays similar to Michael Vick and he will have the same success. Only time will tell how good Crumpler will be in '08. As for now, we list him as a TE2.
The Steelers and QB Ben Roethlisberger have come to terms on an eight-year contract extension, worth $102 million, including $36 million guaranteed. The Steelers haven't done much in free agency, but this signing is huge. After completing 65% of his passes and throwing 32-touchdowns in 2007, Big Ben has propelled himself to QB1 territory.
The Eagles and Cardinals have apparently had discussions involving WR Larry Fitzgerald. It's being reported that the Cardinals wanted an "absurd" amount for Fitzgerald. But you have to wonder, and we said this before, how much longer are both sides going to stand pat before someone budges? With Fitzgerald scheduled to make over $14 million this year, we don't see his side backing down anytime soon.
Texans RB Ahman Green is expected to be at full strength when the team begins their offseason conditioning program in late March. Green opted not to have offseason knee surgery. It is assumed that the team will use one of their draft picks to challenge him, but Green is the starter for now. We wouldn't rank him as anything more than a borderline RB3/RB4, until he proves he can stay healthy for a full season.