bubba9497
July-27th-2005, 01:24 PM
Chris Mortensen
http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=8773
Chris Mortensen: Good morning! By next week, all teams will be in camp, so plenty is going on. Let's see how many ? I can get to.
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Greg - Cleveland, Ohio: Howdy Mort...Will Bill Parcells focus his offense around Julius Jones or focus more on Bledsoe and the passing game ???
Chris Mortensen: Definitely around Julius Jones, the run game, play-action passing and defense. I see the Cowboys pushing for a playoff spot. http://elouai.com/images/yahoo/a11.gif
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Brian (NC): Do you think the packers will trade Javon Walker and if you do who do you think they could get?
Chris Mortensen: No, I think things will work out between the Packers and Walker. The Packers will get Walker into a new contract by the end of the season, and I think they will make some assurances that ultimately will get Walker to camp - and maybe on time!
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Stephen (Richmond, VA): Morning, Chris! Do you think Jamal Lewis's stint in the joint will propel him to a big season or hold him back?
Chris Mortensen: I'd bet he has a big year. The biggest concern really is the ankle. He had surgery shortly before he reported to prison. He wasn't allowed true medical attention that a pro athlete would need, but he has been making progress and I think he his highly foucsed and motivated. With more weapons for the passing game, he should see more space to run.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matt (Orlando): With Ricky back in camp and looking to regain his starting position (after the 4 game suspension of course), how will the backfield shake out in Miami? They didn't draft Ronnie Brown to have him sit on the bench did they?
Chris Mortensen: No, Brown won't sit the bench and we know he's the likely starter for the first four games because of Williams' suspension. But, physically, Ricky looks very, very good. Nick Saban always has preferred backfield depth, even a two-back system of sorts ... now if you're a fantasy player with Ronnie Brown, I bet that makes you nervous, huh?
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Scott (NJ): What do you make of Manuel Wright's reported crying at training camp? One-time thing? Immaturity? Something else?
Chris Mortensen: I was told quite reliably by people I know at Southern Cal that Wright was considered very immature. He will have to grow up in a hurry. He tried to bascially sit out a practice because his back was feeling a little tight. Saban wasn't buying it.
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Kevin (DC): Is there any sense from the Eagles that they'd ever consider a renegotiation of any kind for TO -- maybe just to move some money to the front of his contract? Or is the possibility of "opening the floodgates" to the rest of the team too dangerous a precedent?
Chris Mortensen: No chance of the Eagles doing that. If T.O. has another good year, settles down, he's going to get a new contract after this season because there is a $6 million option bonus awaiting him in '06.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jay (Providence): Will the Seahawks reach a long term deal with Shaun Alexander or will he walk after this year?
Chris Mortensen: Now that Alexander has a 1-year contract and a guarantee he won't be franchised next spring, both sides have enormous incentive - Alexander to have another big season and the Seahawks to reward him if he does. But there is risk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carl (Cedar Rapids): How far does Green Bay fall this season?
Chris Mortensen: I'm not sure. My guess is it won't be has big a fall as many are forecasting. I think the O-line will be a little better than people are anticipating, I think Ahman Green will have a big rebound season (again, contrary to expectations) and the defense will be better. But all the other teams in the division (Vikes, Lions, Bears) are improved.
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Harrison (Fort Benning, GA): Wise and all powerful Mort! Half of the world thinks Kyle Boller is a Detmer waiting to happen and the other half thinks he's the next Favre. Settle the score, what kind of season is he in for?
Chris Mortensen: Cop-out - somewhere inbetween. He did play well downt he stretch last season, he gets the benefit of Jim Fassel's offense and Rick Neuheisel's tutoring. Better talent around him. He'll be solid.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jon (Pittsburgh): The Steelers have said that Hines Ward is their offseason priority, yet they haven't made any progress towards a new contract. Will Hines Ward hold out?
Chris Mortensen: I'm told that he will hold out this time if no substantial progress is not made between now and Saturday. I think he's in Pittsburgh today.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jamie(Pelham,Tn): Mort, I know recievers don't ususally have good rookie season's but last years group seemed to prove that wrong. As a Browns fan what kind of numbers will Braylon Edwards have to put up to be consider as successful rookie year?
Chris Mortensen: Well, if he can go 800-yards, 8-TD, then that will be pretty successful; above that will be exceptional.
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Jay (Buffalo, NY): Mort: JP Losman, what can we expect from him? If he plays even average, will we see the Bills in the playoffs?
Chris Mortensen: If Losman can ge through the first six games without looking disastrous - say the Bills go 3-3 or 4-2 during that stretch, then I really believe the Bills will make the playoffs.
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Dave ( South Bend ) : Any word on Rod Gardner? I think the Redskins are handling this situation terribly. They won't cut him or let him workout, what do they expect him to do?
Chris Mortensen: He's under contract so they can't keep him from training camp. I believe they will cut him or trade for a low pick. He'll have some interest. I think the Panthers are a fair bet to land him.
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Josh (The 'Burgh): Hey, Mort, could you please answer a question for a birthday boy? I would appreciate it. How will my Steelers fair this up-and-coming season with the losses of Plax, Kendrell Bell, Chad Scot, & Oliver Ross? I believe that my team is on the verge of another great season, possibly ending the season in Detroit. What is your take, Mort?
Chris Mortensen: Josh, happy birthday! I heard Bill Cowher say he expects one of his most competitive training camps because of the depth. I have not totally analyzed it, but I obviously don't see 15-1...they have to be considered the favorite to win the division...BUT I am not going to be shocked if the Bengals or Ravens give them a run for their money. Once you get in the playoffs, you have a shot.
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The Dish (Carol Stream, IL): Do you think we'll see a rookie wage scale in place in the NFL in the next CBA? $49 million for a guy who has never played a snap in the NFL is a lot of money.
Chris Mortensen: They've been saying that for a lot of years and still no wage scale. I know management would like it, some veterans would like it, but I'm not sure it happens. You never know.
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Mark (NYC): Mort, I think the eagles organization is full of it....I read an articles about how they made T.O. sign a waiver just before the super bowl in cas he got hurt again by playing for them...and then T.O. signed it!...putting his entire carrer on the line just to play in the game and now the eagles cannot put aside thier we the boos attitude and make one exception for the guy who went were no one else would have gone for them?? ..T.O. crazy dude but this time he should be rewarded for what he did.
Chris Mortensen: That's not true. The Eagles did not ask T.O. to signa waiver, despite speculation. In fact, VP Joe Banner told me, "If T.O. willing to risk it...we're in the boat with him."
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SEAN (TAMPA): Hey Mort, everyone down here in Tampa is worried if we can score enough points. I am more concerned if our defense is getting to old to stop anyone. What's you take?
Chris Mortensen: I think the Bucs are a team in transition and they are trying to get younger. I peg 'em as a 8-8 team with a chance to be real good in '06.
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Rufus ( Tulsa ): Mort, I almost got fired yesterday arguing with my boss, maybe you can help me out. Who has the best D-Line in the NFL? My idiot boss thinks its the Jags now that they have Hayward, but I told him a healthy Carolina is hands down best in the league. What do you think?
Chris Mortensen: Wow, I hope you don't get fired. I have to go with the Panthers but the Jags are close and their DT tandem of Stroud and Henderson is the best. I think if Kris Jenkins is healthy all year, the Panthers will be a load. I believe we will be amazed at just how good Julius Peppers is this coming season. The Jags are close, though.
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Matt (iowa): Mort first off we really are greatful for all you do when it comes to our fantasy teams with your pregame updates. My question is whether or not Cedric Benson not being signed should scare a long time Bears fan.
Chris Mortensen: No. First of all, I've always thought that there's a six-day window (three before camp, three after camp starts) in which you should relax while negotiations take place. Running back is probably the one position that can hold out and still produce big, but there are injury risks and running backs are always measured by how they play in pads, not how they looked in shorts during the summer.
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Chad (Austin): Mort, how is my boy DJ giong to do in KC? I need someones opinion that is unbiased.
Chris Mortensen: The draft was interesting because I heard a lot of mixed reviews on Derrick Johnson, the Texas LB. I'm going to trust Greg Robinson, the former Longhorn d-coordinator who spent so many years in the NFL. He told me emphatically that Johnson will be a success, maybe even a star. He's a terrific athlete.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doug (Phoenix): Mort, Why is the media so kind to the teams and general managers when the teams cut players or force them to restructure contracts, but when the players holdout the medi jumps down their throat? Why should a contract only be one way?
Chris Mortensen: That's a good question. I always say that if an organization has a history of forcing players to take pay cuts (or be cut), then it's a two-way street. However, players sign contracts knowing they are not guaranteed and they only guaranteed money is their signing bonus. So, the players are not blind.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alex, Puerto Rico: Chris, How is M. Vick doing in camp with the passing atack?
Chris Mortensen: Too early to tell. he struggled the first day. He's determined to be better, but some of the young receivers like Jenkins and White are just that - young.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tom (Houston, TX): Mort, tell me that something can be done to fix the contract situation in the NFL. While its hard to relate to T.O. holding out in year 2 of a 7 year deal, who can blame him considering its only really a 3-4 year deal anyway and the team will cut him before its over? Why can't we just call them 3-4 year deals and be done with it?
Chris Mortensen: Good point. A team makes the deal as long as possible to pro-rate the signing bonus under the salary cap. An agent wants a lengthy contract so he can get a headline on the overall value. But, you're right, in reality most of these contracts are 2-to-5 years and both sides know it. In T.O.s case, he was very aware that this was more of a 2-year contract with decisions to made at the end of year two.
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Spivey (Atl): Is this Rice's last go'round? Will he produce at all in Denver?
Chris Mortensen: I believe Rice will probably announce his retirement before the training camp is finished.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ed (Boston): Hey Mort - a little love for Tom Donohoe? He got what he wanted for Henry plus his "questionable" move to get Losman looks great considering he's already got a year in the system and tutelage from Sam Wyche, and Rogers and Smith are clearly first round picks by default.
Chris Mortensen: I think Tom went to Niagara Falls recently so he probably got enough love. I think he's one of the best at his craft. I agree with you.
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Canaan (Ft. Myers, FL): Mort, do you think that with his move to a team with a young quarterback, even though he is the #1, that Plaxico can have a Pro Bowl year?
Chris Mortensen: I don't think so. I think Plaxico will have a solid year, but not Pro Bowl.
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Andy, Sacramento: Mort, can Joe Gibbs return the Skins to glory? They lost so many close games last year and with a better offense - they would have been playoff bound. Skins and playoffs this year a possibility?
Chris Mortensen: Honestly, I don't see it. If I had to pick the division today, it's: 1. Eagles; 2. Cowboys; 3. Giants; 4. Redskins. But, I also know that Joe Gibbs can turn this around. I guess I just have to see it. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v481/bubba9497/b6805fc8.jpg
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CJM (FL): Do you think Dallas Clark will have a breakout season this year? Could he be the key to getting that 2 TE formation that Peyton loves so much?
Chris Mortensen: Well, he was already the preferred TE target last year but, remember, the Colts still have Harrison, Wayne and Stokley to throw to...but, yes, Clark should have a pretty darn good season.
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CJ (NY): Mort any chance of you finally changing your hairstyle
Chris Mortensen: I thought about it but not this year - I may punk it out in '06 when I'm 55.
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Kyle (Richmond, VA): Please, Mort. The Skins are so much better than the Giants. I mean, good lord, did you even watch them play over the second half of the season? They flat-out destroyed the Giants at home and gave the Eagles everything they could handle. That's just lazy reporting on your end.
Chris Mortensen: Sometimes I get lazy. But I'm in full gear now and I have no absolutes. Anybody who does is not very smart.
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RJ (Upstate NY): Any changes in store for this season's Sunday morning show?
Chris Mortensen: Not really. Next year is when the changes will come. I do know the guys are excited about the season.
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ken roberts: hey mort, what do you think the atlanta falcons will do this year, and what kind of season do you think vick would have passing the ball?
Chris Mortensen: It's going to better, but I don't expect spectacular because they are committed to developijng their young WRs.
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Nate (levittown, pa): Mortman, The Pats are getting lots of nice ink for signing all their draft picks early, but not much on Seymour's potential hold out recently. Any word on where the two parties stand?
Chris Mortensen: I've heard that there is progress betwene Seymour and the Pats, maybe enough for Richard to report on time.
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Corey (Pennsylvannia): Is this the year the Texans take the next step and start competing for a playoff spot? They added Phillip Buchanon for much-needed help in the secondary. Whats your take Mort?
Chris Mortensen: I think the Texans HAVE to take the next step. In fact, I think owner Bob McNair will be disappointed if they don't. It's a tough AFC South, though. Buchanon does make their defense better. I'm just not sure about them yet.
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Billy (Nashville): As a Georgia alumni I would like to know how you think Pollack and Thurman will fair this year as Bengels
Chris Mortensen: Well, I absolutely love Pollack. I think he's one of the best football players to play in the SEC in the last 10 years and I believe he will be a success. Thurman probably has more ability but he has a lot of growing up to do - at least he's got a great head coach in Marvin Lewis to show him the way.
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Chad (Detroit): Is Joey Harrington set up to fail? I still think he can be good if his receivers don't drop the ball. Now that he has a running game can he open up the passing lanes?
Chris Mortensen: I actually understanding what you mean by that, but I have to believe he's been set up to succeed. Kevin Jones at RB is a key. This is a very interesting team.
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shworge (cincy): Mort, I think this is the year Chad Johnson breaks 1500 yards receiving, but what kind of year do you expect out of Palmer?
Chris Mortensen: I think Palmer will be in the Pro Bowl with Chad Johnson.
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CJ (Philadelphia): What is the deal with Corey Simon? I think he has had 2 lackluster years in '03 and '04, but the guy is still holding out!!! Is there a shot he will not see the field in '05 at all?
Chris Mortensen: His days are numbered in Philly, but I suspect he will be playing there this year. That's why they drafted Mike Patterson. Corey Simon is a good person and I really expected him to get better, not stay even as a player.
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Dave (Boston): If the offensive line for the Miami Dolphins plays well, what will their win total be? I really think that AJ Feeley didn't play that bad, when his offensive line wasn't in the backfield.
Chris Mortensen: I've been thinking the Dolphins won't top seven wins. But I now believe Hudson Houck will shape up the O-line. I now have a feeling Ricky Williams may shock us at how good he still is. The secondary, QB and WR groups are still major question marks.
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Chris (Richmond): Tom Brady, no one wants to give him the credit he deserves, but I saw him throw the prettiest ball I ever seen put in the air in the playoffs last year. Is he the next Montana??
Chris Mortensen: He's Tom Brady. He does throw a pretty ball and I think he has gotten better physically every year because he works so hard in the weight room and on the practice field. He really is a great one.
Chris Mortensen: That's all, folks. Unfortunately (for the chat), I am in Tokyo next week for Colts and Falcons - I'll have to see if we can pull off something. God Bless!
http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=8773
Chris Mortensen: Good morning! By next week, all teams will be in camp, so plenty is going on. Let's see how many ? I can get to.
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Greg - Cleveland, Ohio: Howdy Mort...Will Bill Parcells focus his offense around Julius Jones or focus more on Bledsoe and the passing game ???
Chris Mortensen: Definitely around Julius Jones, the run game, play-action passing and defense. I see the Cowboys pushing for a playoff spot. http://elouai.com/images/yahoo/a11.gif
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Brian (NC): Do you think the packers will trade Javon Walker and if you do who do you think they could get?
Chris Mortensen: No, I think things will work out between the Packers and Walker. The Packers will get Walker into a new contract by the end of the season, and I think they will make some assurances that ultimately will get Walker to camp - and maybe on time!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stephen (Richmond, VA): Morning, Chris! Do you think Jamal Lewis's stint in the joint will propel him to a big season or hold him back?
Chris Mortensen: I'd bet he has a big year. The biggest concern really is the ankle. He had surgery shortly before he reported to prison. He wasn't allowed true medical attention that a pro athlete would need, but he has been making progress and I think he his highly foucsed and motivated. With more weapons for the passing game, he should see more space to run.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matt (Orlando): With Ricky back in camp and looking to regain his starting position (after the 4 game suspension of course), how will the backfield shake out in Miami? They didn't draft Ronnie Brown to have him sit on the bench did they?
Chris Mortensen: No, Brown won't sit the bench and we know he's the likely starter for the first four games because of Williams' suspension. But, physically, Ricky looks very, very good. Nick Saban always has preferred backfield depth, even a two-back system of sorts ... now if you're a fantasy player with Ronnie Brown, I bet that makes you nervous, huh?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scott (NJ): What do you make of Manuel Wright's reported crying at training camp? One-time thing? Immaturity? Something else?
Chris Mortensen: I was told quite reliably by people I know at Southern Cal that Wright was considered very immature. He will have to grow up in a hurry. He tried to bascially sit out a practice because his back was feeling a little tight. Saban wasn't buying it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kevin (DC): Is there any sense from the Eagles that they'd ever consider a renegotiation of any kind for TO -- maybe just to move some money to the front of his contract? Or is the possibility of "opening the floodgates" to the rest of the team too dangerous a precedent?
Chris Mortensen: No chance of the Eagles doing that. If T.O. has another good year, settles down, he's going to get a new contract after this season because there is a $6 million option bonus awaiting him in '06.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jay (Providence): Will the Seahawks reach a long term deal with Shaun Alexander or will he walk after this year?
Chris Mortensen: Now that Alexander has a 1-year contract and a guarantee he won't be franchised next spring, both sides have enormous incentive - Alexander to have another big season and the Seahawks to reward him if he does. But there is risk.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carl (Cedar Rapids): How far does Green Bay fall this season?
Chris Mortensen: I'm not sure. My guess is it won't be has big a fall as many are forecasting. I think the O-line will be a little better than people are anticipating, I think Ahman Green will have a big rebound season (again, contrary to expectations) and the defense will be better. But all the other teams in the division (Vikes, Lions, Bears) are improved.
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Harrison (Fort Benning, GA): Wise and all powerful Mort! Half of the world thinks Kyle Boller is a Detmer waiting to happen and the other half thinks he's the next Favre. Settle the score, what kind of season is he in for?
Chris Mortensen: Cop-out - somewhere inbetween. He did play well downt he stretch last season, he gets the benefit of Jim Fassel's offense and Rick Neuheisel's tutoring. Better talent around him. He'll be solid.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jon (Pittsburgh): The Steelers have said that Hines Ward is their offseason priority, yet they haven't made any progress towards a new contract. Will Hines Ward hold out?
Chris Mortensen: I'm told that he will hold out this time if no substantial progress is not made between now and Saturday. I think he's in Pittsburgh today.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jamie(Pelham,Tn): Mort, I know recievers don't ususally have good rookie season's but last years group seemed to prove that wrong. As a Browns fan what kind of numbers will Braylon Edwards have to put up to be consider as successful rookie year?
Chris Mortensen: Well, if he can go 800-yards, 8-TD, then that will be pretty successful; above that will be exceptional.
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Jay (Buffalo, NY): Mort: JP Losman, what can we expect from him? If he plays even average, will we see the Bills in the playoffs?
Chris Mortensen: If Losman can ge through the first six games without looking disastrous - say the Bills go 3-3 or 4-2 during that stretch, then I really believe the Bills will make the playoffs.
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Dave ( South Bend ) : Any word on Rod Gardner? I think the Redskins are handling this situation terribly. They won't cut him or let him workout, what do they expect him to do?
Chris Mortensen: He's under contract so they can't keep him from training camp. I believe they will cut him or trade for a low pick. He'll have some interest. I think the Panthers are a fair bet to land him.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Josh (The 'Burgh): Hey, Mort, could you please answer a question for a birthday boy? I would appreciate it. How will my Steelers fair this up-and-coming season with the losses of Plax, Kendrell Bell, Chad Scot, & Oliver Ross? I believe that my team is on the verge of another great season, possibly ending the season in Detroit. What is your take, Mort?
Chris Mortensen: Josh, happy birthday! I heard Bill Cowher say he expects one of his most competitive training camps because of the depth. I have not totally analyzed it, but I obviously don't see 15-1...they have to be considered the favorite to win the division...BUT I am not going to be shocked if the Bengals or Ravens give them a run for their money. Once you get in the playoffs, you have a shot.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Dish (Carol Stream, IL): Do you think we'll see a rookie wage scale in place in the NFL in the next CBA? $49 million for a guy who has never played a snap in the NFL is a lot of money.
Chris Mortensen: They've been saying that for a lot of years and still no wage scale. I know management would like it, some veterans would like it, but I'm not sure it happens. You never know.
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Mark (NYC): Mort, I think the eagles organization is full of it....I read an articles about how they made T.O. sign a waiver just before the super bowl in cas he got hurt again by playing for them...and then T.O. signed it!...putting his entire carrer on the line just to play in the game and now the eagles cannot put aside thier we the boos attitude and make one exception for the guy who went were no one else would have gone for them?? ..T.O. crazy dude but this time he should be rewarded for what he did.
Chris Mortensen: That's not true. The Eagles did not ask T.O. to signa waiver, despite speculation. In fact, VP Joe Banner told me, "If T.O. willing to risk it...we're in the boat with him."
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SEAN (TAMPA): Hey Mort, everyone down here in Tampa is worried if we can score enough points. I am more concerned if our defense is getting to old to stop anyone. What's you take?
Chris Mortensen: I think the Bucs are a team in transition and they are trying to get younger. I peg 'em as a 8-8 team with a chance to be real good in '06.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rufus ( Tulsa ): Mort, I almost got fired yesterday arguing with my boss, maybe you can help me out. Who has the best D-Line in the NFL? My idiot boss thinks its the Jags now that they have Hayward, but I told him a healthy Carolina is hands down best in the league. What do you think?
Chris Mortensen: Wow, I hope you don't get fired. I have to go with the Panthers but the Jags are close and their DT tandem of Stroud and Henderson is the best. I think if Kris Jenkins is healthy all year, the Panthers will be a load. I believe we will be amazed at just how good Julius Peppers is this coming season. The Jags are close, though.
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Matt (iowa): Mort first off we really are greatful for all you do when it comes to our fantasy teams with your pregame updates. My question is whether or not Cedric Benson not being signed should scare a long time Bears fan.
Chris Mortensen: No. First of all, I've always thought that there's a six-day window (three before camp, three after camp starts) in which you should relax while negotiations take place. Running back is probably the one position that can hold out and still produce big, but there are injury risks and running backs are always measured by how they play in pads, not how they looked in shorts during the summer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chad (Austin): Mort, how is my boy DJ giong to do in KC? I need someones opinion that is unbiased.
Chris Mortensen: The draft was interesting because I heard a lot of mixed reviews on Derrick Johnson, the Texas LB. I'm going to trust Greg Robinson, the former Longhorn d-coordinator who spent so many years in the NFL. He told me emphatically that Johnson will be a success, maybe even a star. He's a terrific athlete.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Doug (Phoenix): Mort, Why is the media so kind to the teams and general managers when the teams cut players or force them to restructure contracts, but when the players holdout the medi jumps down their throat? Why should a contract only be one way?
Chris Mortensen: That's a good question. I always say that if an organization has a history of forcing players to take pay cuts (or be cut), then it's a two-way street. However, players sign contracts knowing they are not guaranteed and they only guaranteed money is their signing bonus. So, the players are not blind.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alex, Puerto Rico: Chris, How is M. Vick doing in camp with the passing atack?
Chris Mortensen: Too early to tell. he struggled the first day. He's determined to be better, but some of the young receivers like Jenkins and White are just that - young.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tom (Houston, TX): Mort, tell me that something can be done to fix the contract situation in the NFL. While its hard to relate to T.O. holding out in year 2 of a 7 year deal, who can blame him considering its only really a 3-4 year deal anyway and the team will cut him before its over? Why can't we just call them 3-4 year deals and be done with it?
Chris Mortensen: Good point. A team makes the deal as long as possible to pro-rate the signing bonus under the salary cap. An agent wants a lengthy contract so he can get a headline on the overall value. But, you're right, in reality most of these contracts are 2-to-5 years and both sides know it. In T.O.s case, he was very aware that this was more of a 2-year contract with decisions to made at the end of year two.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spivey (Atl): Is this Rice's last go'round? Will he produce at all in Denver?
Chris Mortensen: I believe Rice will probably announce his retirement before the training camp is finished.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ed (Boston): Hey Mort - a little love for Tom Donohoe? He got what he wanted for Henry plus his "questionable" move to get Losman looks great considering he's already got a year in the system and tutelage from Sam Wyche, and Rogers and Smith are clearly first round picks by default.
Chris Mortensen: I think Tom went to Niagara Falls recently so he probably got enough love. I think he's one of the best at his craft. I agree with you.
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Canaan (Ft. Myers, FL): Mort, do you think that with his move to a team with a young quarterback, even though he is the #1, that Plaxico can have a Pro Bowl year?
Chris Mortensen: I don't think so. I think Plaxico will have a solid year, but not Pro Bowl.
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Andy, Sacramento: Mort, can Joe Gibbs return the Skins to glory? They lost so many close games last year and with a better offense - they would have been playoff bound. Skins and playoffs this year a possibility?
Chris Mortensen: Honestly, I don't see it. If I had to pick the division today, it's: 1. Eagles; 2. Cowboys; 3. Giants; 4. Redskins. But, I also know that Joe Gibbs can turn this around. I guess I just have to see it. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v481/bubba9497/b6805fc8.jpg
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CJM (FL): Do you think Dallas Clark will have a breakout season this year? Could he be the key to getting that 2 TE formation that Peyton loves so much?
Chris Mortensen: Well, he was already the preferred TE target last year but, remember, the Colts still have Harrison, Wayne and Stokley to throw to...but, yes, Clark should have a pretty darn good season.
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CJ (NY): Mort any chance of you finally changing your hairstyle
Chris Mortensen: I thought about it but not this year - I may punk it out in '06 when I'm 55.
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Kyle (Richmond, VA): Please, Mort. The Skins are so much better than the Giants. I mean, good lord, did you even watch them play over the second half of the season? They flat-out destroyed the Giants at home and gave the Eagles everything they could handle. That's just lazy reporting on your end.
Chris Mortensen: Sometimes I get lazy. But I'm in full gear now and I have no absolutes. Anybody who does is not very smart.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RJ (Upstate NY): Any changes in store for this season's Sunday morning show?
Chris Mortensen: Not really. Next year is when the changes will come. I do know the guys are excited about the season.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ken roberts: hey mort, what do you think the atlanta falcons will do this year, and what kind of season do you think vick would have passing the ball?
Chris Mortensen: It's going to better, but I don't expect spectacular because they are committed to developijng their young WRs.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nate (levittown, pa): Mortman, The Pats are getting lots of nice ink for signing all their draft picks early, but not much on Seymour's potential hold out recently. Any word on where the two parties stand?
Chris Mortensen: I've heard that there is progress betwene Seymour and the Pats, maybe enough for Richard to report on time.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corey (Pennsylvannia): Is this the year the Texans take the next step and start competing for a playoff spot? They added Phillip Buchanon for much-needed help in the secondary. Whats your take Mort?
Chris Mortensen: I think the Texans HAVE to take the next step. In fact, I think owner Bob McNair will be disappointed if they don't. It's a tough AFC South, though. Buchanon does make their defense better. I'm just not sure about them yet.
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Billy (Nashville): As a Georgia alumni I would like to know how you think Pollack and Thurman will fair this year as Bengels
Chris Mortensen: Well, I absolutely love Pollack. I think he's one of the best football players to play in the SEC in the last 10 years and I believe he will be a success. Thurman probably has more ability but he has a lot of growing up to do - at least he's got a great head coach in Marvin Lewis to show him the way.
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Chad (Detroit): Is Joey Harrington set up to fail? I still think he can be good if his receivers don't drop the ball. Now that he has a running game can he open up the passing lanes?
Chris Mortensen: I actually understanding what you mean by that, but I have to believe he's been set up to succeed. Kevin Jones at RB is a key. This is a very interesting team.
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shworge (cincy): Mort, I think this is the year Chad Johnson breaks 1500 yards receiving, but what kind of year do you expect out of Palmer?
Chris Mortensen: I think Palmer will be in the Pro Bowl with Chad Johnson.
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CJ (Philadelphia): What is the deal with Corey Simon? I think he has had 2 lackluster years in '03 and '04, but the guy is still holding out!!! Is there a shot he will not see the field in '05 at all?
Chris Mortensen: His days are numbered in Philly, but I suspect he will be playing there this year. That's why they drafted Mike Patterson. Corey Simon is a good person and I really expected him to get better, not stay even as a player.
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Dave (Boston): If the offensive line for the Miami Dolphins plays well, what will their win total be? I really think that AJ Feeley didn't play that bad, when his offensive line wasn't in the backfield.
Chris Mortensen: I've been thinking the Dolphins won't top seven wins. But I now believe Hudson Houck will shape up the O-line. I now have a feeling Ricky Williams may shock us at how good he still is. The secondary, QB and WR groups are still major question marks.
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Chris (Richmond): Tom Brady, no one wants to give him the credit he deserves, but I saw him throw the prettiest ball I ever seen put in the air in the playoffs last year. Is he the next Montana??
Chris Mortensen: He's Tom Brady. He does throw a pretty ball and I think he has gotten better physically every year because he works so hard in the weight room and on the practice field. He really is a great one.
Chris Mortensen: That's all, folks. Unfortunately (for the chat), I am in Tokyo next week for Colts and Falcons - I'll have to see if we can pull off something. God Bless!