Around the NFL
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Posted by: Shaun Dolence
A couple of stories from around the NFL, as the league prepares for what should be an eventful off-season:
Bengals Franchise Kicker
The Cincinnati Bengals have placed the franchise tag on kicker Shayne Graham, which comes as big news to some in Seattle. Why? With the Bengals designating Graham as their franchise player, T.J. Houshmandzadeh will inevitably become a free agent. There are a lot of folks in Seattle, myself included, who wouldn’t mind seeing T.J. in blue next year. It makes sense as well; Ruskell has shown his willingness to plug holes by free agency in the past, which allows the team to draft more by talent than by need.
Garcia Done In Tampa
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have announced that they will not re-sign quarterback Jeff Garcia. After parting ways with former coach Jon Gruden, it appears as if the Bucs are going for a complete overhaul. Releasing the 38 year old Garcia leaves Tampa Bay with three quarterbacks on the roster: veteran Brian Griese, Luke McCown, and Josh Johnson. Apparently, the Bucs management views Luke McCown as their quarterback of the future (as reported by the Tampa Tribune), but a lot of mocks have Tampa Bay selecting a quarterback early on in April’s draft.
Jaguars Release Taylor
In a move intended to free up money, Jacksonville has released 33 year old veteran running back Fred Taylor. Taylor currently ranks 16th on the NFL’s all-time rushing list, and has spent every season of his career with the Jaguars. Apparently, 6 million a year is too much for an aging back. He’ll likely find a spot elsewhere in a key reserve role.
Ravens Cut McAlister
In another move aimed at freeing up cap space, the Baltimore Ravens have terminated the contract of three-time Pro Bowler Chris McAlister. This move makes sense for the Ravens, who have several big time players ready to hit the market: linebackers Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Bart Scott, and center Jason Brown. McAlister, who is 31 years old, has been slowed by injuries recently, including a season-ending knee injury last season.