Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson said Thursday that he’s come to terms with the fact that he won’t be back in San Diego in 2010. “I’m not coming back,” Tomlinson said. “I’ve accepted it.” The future Hall of Famer said of his time with the San Diego Chargers that the “the football part is fun, but the business part sucks.” LT doesn’t know when he’ll be released, but his agent will likely call the team to “expediate the process.” If Tomlinson is released, he will likely be splitting carries with another back next season.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Denver: Broncoes WR Brandon Marshall said Thursday that he’s open to playing for the Denver Broncos next season. “Last year I handled things totally wrong,” admitted Marshall. “I just looked at the business side of things and took things too personally.” Marshall is attempting to repair his image, but the Broncos would clearly prefer to trade him this offseason. Perhaps Marshall’s agent has finally made it clear that his best way to get a contract extension is to be a good team player. Marshall will likely still be dealt this offseason to the highest bidder.

Buffalo: Profootballtalk.com’s Mike Florio reports the Bills will hire University of Florida defensive coordinator George Edwards for the same position in Buffalo. The Buffalo Bills have confirmed the report. Edwards left the Dolphins for the Gators job just three weeks ago. Since 1998, he has served as a successful linebackers coach with the Cowboys, Redskins, Browns, and Dolphins.

It was in Dallas that he worked with head coach Chan Gailey. In his first experience as a coordinator, Edwards indicated that he will start out with a “3-4″ scheme with an ability to flex to a “4-3″ at times. It’s still a big change for a defense that has run “4-3″ for nine years. Look for the Bills to aquire a linebacker in the draft or free agency in the offseason.

New Orleans: Beat writer Mike Triplett calls the report of a new contract for Drew Brees “a bit premature.” Triplett does expect Brees to get a new deal “at some point over the next two years,” but he points out that the sides have held no serious discussions on a contract. The Saints are expected to open talks this offseason, but “nothing is imminent.” Brees has two years remaining on his original six-year, $60M deal.

Miami: Free agent Chad Pennington (shoulder surgery) “has decided to make it his priority to stay with the Dolphins,” according to the Miami Herald’s Jeff Darlington. Pennington is willing to back up Chad Henne, and the Miami Dolphins will “entertain the possibility” only after they see him throw — specifically a 15-yard out route. His shoulder was discovered to have only damage to the labrum and the shoulder capsule, leading to expectations of a full recovery. If Miami opts against re-signing him (Pat White and Tyler Thigpen are under contract), the Cardinals are believed to have interest in Pennington as veteran insurance behind Matt Leinart.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Colts RE Dwight Freeney has a torn ligament in his injured right ankle. The injury “will make it difficult for him to play” in Super Bowl XLIV, according to Schefter. This confirms a Profootballtalk report that Freeney’s injury is more serious than the team has let on. Missing Freeney, even if it’s for just a few less snaps than usual, would be detrimental to Indy’s Super Bowl chances. Freeney, however, is widely known for his high threshold of pain.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Philadelphia: Sources tell ESPN’s Len Pasquarelli that the Bills will indeed consider Michael Vick for their starting quarterback job. This confirms beat writer Allen Wilson’s speculation earlier this week. New coach Chan Gailey likes mobile quarterbacks and the Bills can’t enter 2010 with Trent Edwards as their starter. The Buffalo Bills would likely only have to give up a conditional sixth- or seventh-round pick to land Vick.

Philadelphia: A high-ranking Eagles official told ESPN.com that “the odds are pretty good [that] [Donovan McNabb] isn’t going anywhere.” We tend to agree, but that doesn’t mean the Eagles aren’t listening to offers. If someone blows them away with a solid veteran on defense and a first-round pick, they’d be hard-pressed to reject a trade. The Philadelphia Eagles front office will deny they are shopping McNabb for many reasons, including their quarterback’s fragile ego. Kevin Kolb continues to wait patiently for his era to begin.

Minnesota: Vikings LT Bryant McKinnie has been dismissed from the NFC Pro Bowl squad after going AWOL late in the week. McKinnie has shown up for only one meeting and even missed the team picture.

Carolina: Julius Peppers said he “doesn’t have a preference” about where he plays next season. “I’m just trying to get on a team right now,” Peppers said. “I just want to get a contract.” Peppers’ fate for 2010 is still very much up in the air. The Carolina Panthers could pay an absurd $20.1 million to put the franchise tag on Peppers again, do a long-term deal or let him walk without any compensation. Just about every team in the league would jump at the opportunity to sign Peppers.

New England: Pro Bowl LG Logan Mankins, who is set to become a restricted free agent, isn’t concerned about his contract situation. Mankins wants an extension, but appears to be resigned to his fate. As a RFA, the New England Patriots will hold all the cards on the excellent run blocker and can bring him back on a one-year deal worth around $3M.

2010 NFL Draft: Michigan DE Brandon Graham was named MVP of the Senior Bowl Saturday.
Graham dominated practices all week, and he was the most disruptive player in the game Saturday as well. He finished with two sacks and a forced fumble. Graham is a tad short at 6’1, but he’s drawn comparisons to fellow Michigan product LaMarr Woodley as a pass rusher.

Donte' Stallworth and Brady Quinn

The Browns have “no intention” of bringing Donte’ Stallworth back for the 2010 season, according to beat writer Tony Grossi. Stallworth is eligible to be reinstated from his suspension after the Super Bowl. He’s due a $1M bonus in March in addition to a $2.775M salary.

There’s no chance he sees that money. Still, Stallworth will end up receiving $9.6M in total for 17 receptions and 170 yards over two years with the Denver Broncos. The injury-prone 29-year-old will carry a ton of baggage the free agent market and will find it tough trying to land with an NFL team.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Oakland: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Tom Cable will stay on as Oakland Raiders head coach in 2010. Cable did get his team to play hard down the stretch for a second straight season.

Owner Al Davis appears to be going with Cable’s ability to motivate over JaMarcus Russell, who Cable benched in-season despite Davis’ belief that the 2007 No. 1 overall pick is a “great player.”

Cable’s play calling duties are likely to be stripped, however, in favor of offensive coordinator target Hue Jackson. In the last year of his contract, Cable enters 2010 as a lame duck and could be fired during the regular season.

Look for rumors to persist that the Raiders are “gauging interest” from other coaches regarding Oakland’s head coaching job. If the Raiders can find a better replacement, Cable could be dumped at any time.

San Diego: Chargers assistant head coach/TEs Rob Chudzinski has dropped out of the running for the Bears’ offensive coordinator vacancy. Chudzinski’s contract is expiring, but San Diego Chargers is expected to pursue re-signing him.

Another blow is dealt to Chicago’s fruitless OC search, with GM Jerry Angelo already having missed out on Jeremy Bates (originally his No. 1 candidate) and Charlie Weis.

Buffalo: Mike Jurecki of XTRA Sports 910 in Phoenix reports Cardinals running backs coach Curtis Modkins will be named offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills. The Bills requested permission to interview Modkins earlier in the week, and the sides reached an agreement by Friday night.

Modkins has a history with Gailey, as the two worked together at Georgia Tech and in Kansas City with the Chiefs for a combined seven years. Gailey will maintain play-calling duties in Buffalo.

Minnesota: Percy Harvin (migraines) participated in Saturday’s practice and team meetings after staying home Thursday and Friday. Harvin is traveling with the team to New Orleans.

His migraines had reportedly lessened by Saturday, but “the problem still lingers.” Barring a setback, Harvin appears likely to suit up Sunday evening, though his exact role remains up in the air.

Chan Gailey

The Chan Gailey era in Buffalo officially begun on Tuesday as the team introduced the career play-caller as their next head coach. Gailey, who was fired from his only other head coaching position by Jerry Jones, will get his second, and most likely last chance to prove himself as a successful head coach in the NFL.

Gailey will have his work cut out for him in Buffalo Bills. The Buffalo Bills team he’s taking over hasn’t made the playoffs in a decade and its fans have been clamoring for a big name coach, such as Bill Cowher, during what most fans are interpreting a unsuccessful search. “I can’t say anything to change anybody’s mind. All I can do is go try to help us win football games,” Gailey said. “We win football games, everybody’s minds will be changed, right?”

Gailey was hired by first-time general manager Buddy Nix, ending a two-month search to replace Dick Jauron, who was fired in November. He takes over a Bills team coming off its fifth straight losing season following a 6-10 finish and in the midst of a 10-year playoff drought that is tied with Detroit as the longest active streak in the NFL. “I’ve been around enough winning programs … that when I walk on the field I expect to win.

I don’t just hope to win,” Gailey said. “But the bottom line is we’ve got to do it on the field” For Nix, it was Gailey’s extensive experience that impressed him and met most of the criteria the General Manager set out when he took over the search two weeks ago. Nix was eager to find someone with previous head-coaching experience and who had an offensive background, especially considering the Bills quarterback situation.

“Without any doubt in my mind, we got the best qualified guy, a guy that was on the list early,” Nix said.”We got the right guy for us. I’ve got full confidence in him to answer your question.”

Gailey has spent 15 of his 35 years of coaching in the NFL. In his two years coaching the Dallas Cowboys, he went 18-14 and led the team to consecutive playoff appearances – both losses. He was dismissed after the 1999 season, and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has acknowledged his mistake in firing Gailey.

Gailey has been out of football since he was removed as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator in August, two weeks before the season opener. He was entering his second season with Kansas City Chiefs after a six-year stretch as Georgia Tech’s coach, during which he went 44-33 before being fired in 2007.

Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier was considered the top candidate after interviewing two weeks ago. Frazier’s stock appeared to climb even further after his defense shut down the Cowboys in Minnesota’s 34-3 win in the playoffs Sunday.

Oakland Raider

A league source tells Profootballtalk.com that the Raiders still haven’t held any head coaching interviews. “Reports that we’ve interviewed prospective head coaches are totally untrue, totally false,” club spokesman John Herrera said Tuesday.

The SF Chronicle reported early Wednesday that the team interviewed Jim Fassel and CFL coach Marc Trestman. The Oakland Raiders are known to be in the process of setting up a visit for Ravens QBs coach Hue Jackson, whose hire could keep Tom Cable safe.

Jackson would work under Cable as offensive coordinator and playcaller. However, nobody truly knows what is going on behind closed doors as the Raiders are one of the most gossiped about NFL teams.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Atlanta: Atlanta  Falcons hall-of-fame TE Tony Gonzalez confirmed Wednesday that he will return for a 14th season.

“Now that I’ve had a chance to get away from the game a little bit…I’m definitely going to be around for next year,” he said. The 34-year-old needs just one reception to get to 1,000 for his career.

Buffalo: Mike Lombardi of the National Football Post suggests that Buffalo Bills is now a possible landing spot for Michael Vick. Lombardi points out that new Bills coach Chan Gailey has worked extensively with athletic QBs: Kordell Stewart, Georgia Tech four-year starter Reggie Ball, and even Tyler Thigpen.

It’s debatable/uncertain whether Vick is even a league-average passer anymore, but he can’t be much worse of an option than Trent Edwards, Gibran Hamdan, Brian Brohm, or Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Arizona: Sounding like a player dead-set on retiring, Kurt Warner told ESPN’s Rick Reilly that playing football has lost its fun. “You have a game that isn’t that great and people are like, ‘What’s wrong with Warner?’

That wears on you,” Warner said. “You don’t have the joy and the fun and satisfaction of having one of those great games because everybody expects you to. You never get to exhale.” Warner, who turns 39 in June, has been named NFL MVP twice, played in three Super Bowls, and made a strong case for Hall-of-Fame enshrinement. It appears that Warner is currently leaning toward retirement.

Philadelphia: Eagles beat writer Les Bowen isn’t buying the report that Brian Westbrook’s troublesome left knee will force him to retire. Bowen says it sounds like B-West retiring is what the Birds’ front office hopes will happen. That way, it won’t be as ugly when they are forced to release one of their most popular players once again.

Carolina: Jonathan Stewart “tweeted” that he’s undergoing surgery on his foot Wednesday. Exact details aren’t available, but the procedure is likely related to his troublesome Achilles’ tendon, an injury that resulted from Stewart trying to overcompensate for his college turf toe.

The Colts have placed WR Anthony Gonzalez (knee) on injured reserve, ending his season. Gonzalez was expected to be a game-time decision for this week’s game against the Jets, so it appears that he had a setback during practice. Pierre Garcon is now a full-time starter in Indianapolis Colts.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Seattle: Seattle Seahawks RB Julius Jones (ribs) returned to a full practice Thursday and is expected to play Sunday at Green Bay. Jones will likely start on Sunday against the Packers and get more carries than Justin Forsett.

Carolina: RB DeAngelo Williams missed Thursday’s practice with an ankle injury that has been bothering him over the last few weeks. Look for Jonathan Stewart to see the majority of the carries against the Giants on Sunday.

Carolina: Panthers placed QB Jake Delhomme (finger) on injured reserve, ending his season. Delhomme is scheduled to earn $13 million in guaranteed money next season, which means he will return but might be a backup. Matt Moore has made some strides in his three starts this season and the Carolina Panthers appear to be ready to go in a different direction.

Oakland: Oakland  Raiders RB Justin Fargas did not practice on Thursday because of a knee injury. It looks like Michael Bush will get the start on Sunday against the Browns.

Pittsburg: Hines Ward (hamstring) returned to a full practice Thursday. Ward reportedly had a setback with his hamstring last week, but he ended up catching seven balls for 126 yards. It doesn’t appear that he’s in any danger of missing this week’s game against the Ravens.

Buffalo: Bills RE Aaron Schobel indicated Wednesday that he may consider retiring after this season. Schobel, 32, is still a very productive player and has seven sacks on the season. “I don’t know my future really, what I’m going to do,” he said. He is second on the Buffalo Bills’ all-time sacks list, behind only Bruce Smith.

Washington: Redskins coach Jim Zorn confirmed Wednesday that Jason Campbell will start in Week 16 against Dallas. Campbell suffered a stinger and was rocked repeatedly by the Giants on Monday night, as New York defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan took a page from predecessor Steve Spagnuolo’s pressure-filled book. Campbell also came out of the game with a black eye. He figures to face similar protection breakdowns against a Dallas defense that humbled Drew Brees in Week 15.

The Pittsburg Steelers have signed WR Joey Galloway, formerly of the Patriots. He replaces Limas Sweed, who is out for the season with an “illness.” Galloway will be the Steelers’ No. 4 receiver at best behind Santonio Holmes, Hines Ward, and Mike Wallace. The 38-year-old has been out of the league since getting released by the Patriots on Oct. 20. Galloway’s name is much bigger than his potential impact.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

New Orleans: Saints coach Sean Payton said that he will not rest key players now that the quest for a perfect season is over. The New Orleans Saints haven’t clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC yet, but could with a win Sunday. “We’re not resting them. We’re playing right now,” Payton said. “There are only two weeks left in the regular season, and we’re full-speed ahead with this game that we’re playing.” The Saints would be wise to continue to play key players and not the players get rusty.

Kansas City: The Chiefs have waived WR Mark Bradley. With Dwayne Bowe coming back, the Kansas City Chiefs will go with Bobby Wade and Lance Long as the third and fourth receivers. Bradley was clearly not in the Chiefs future plans.

Buffalo: According to the Buffalo News, Brian Brohm is the likely starting quarterback for the Bills this week.
Ryan Fitzpatrick had crutches in his locker Monday after injuring his ankle against the Pats. With nothing left to play for this season, the Buffalo Bills will be going with the former Green Bay second round pick as their starting quarterback.

Pittsburg: Steelers WR Hines Ward had a setback with his hamstring injury and is now considered day to day. He’s still expected to play against the Ravens on Sunday.

Cleveland: Browns QB Derek Anderson will start the final two games for the Browns as Brady Quinn was placed on injured reserve with a foot injury. He is not a fantasy option against the Raiders or Jaguars.

Philadelphia: Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin is expected back at Philadelphia Eagles practice this week. He missed week 15 with a foot injury. He does not have a good match up against the Broncos this weekend.

Chicago: Bears WR Devin Hester is reportedly closer to returning from a calf injury and could play this week. He has missed the previous two games. Hester would not be considered a strong play against the Vikings on Monday night.

Washington: Redskins TE Fred Davis caught five passes for 65 yards and a touchdown on Monday night. He continues to put up big numbers with Chris Cooley out with injury.

FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer reports that Jets players tell him the team is benching FS Kerry Rhodes in favor of Eric Smith. Rhodes, who signed a $33.5M extension two offseasons ago, was the starting free safety for the NFL’s No. 4 pass defense in the first ten games, hasn’t been able to come up with the big plays this season (no picks, zero forced fumbles, only five pass breakups). We expect Rhodes to eventually earn his starting job back, but the Jets coaching staff is clearly trying to send a message.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Indianapolis: Cots QB Peyton Manning was limited in Indianapolis Colts practice Wednesday with a “glute” injury. Considering he hasn’t missed a game in his career, we think it’s ok to plug Manning in your lineup for the Texans on Sunday.

San Diego: Chargers WR Vincent Jackson was held out of Chargers practice Wednesday because of a ribs injury. He should be ok to go against the Chiefs in week 12, but pay attention to the injury report throughout the week.

Buffalo: Bills RB Marshawn Lynch (shoulder) was a full participant in practice Wednesday. The Buffalo Bills said this week that Lynch was considered “day to day,” and he didn’t appear to be in any pain on the sidelines of last week’s loss after the injury. Even though Lynch might play this weekend, Fred Jackson will see his share of the carries.

Arizona: In a conference call with Tennessee media Wednesday, Kurt Warner (head) told reporters that he expects to play Sunday at the Titans. Throughout his career, Warner has always been upfront with reports so it looks as if he will play Sunday. Through ten games, Warner is averaging two passing TDs and 272 yards per week and he has a favorable matchup in week 12.

St. Louis: Rams RB Steven Jackson missed Rams practice Wednesday with back spasms. The St. Louis Rams usually list players that miss full practices as questionable on the final injury report, but Jackson seems confident that he’ll face Seattle, saying he’s “expecting to play Sunday.” “Hopefully it’ll release a little bit and allow me to practice,” the workhorse added. “It’s just one of those things where you’ve got to wait it out.” Check back later this week for an update.

Atlanta: Falcons RB Michael Turner (ankle) returned to Falcons practice on a “limited” basis Wednesday.
The development is promising for his chances of playing in Week 13, but coach Mike Smith’s admission that Turner has “no timetable” for return means he probably isn’t ready to face the Bucs. Jerious Norwood (hip) practiced fully Wednesday, though Jason Snelling is very likely to be Atlanta’s lead runner in the favorable matchup. Norwood hasn’t played in six weeks

Andre Johnson denied an ESPN The Magazine report that he plans to force a trade if the Texans don’t make the playoffs. Johnson’s uncle and agent, Andre Melton, made the claims. “That didn’t come from me. … I make my own decisions, and I plan on being here until I retire,” Johnson said. Johnson signed an eight-year, $60 million contract in March of 2007 and it’s very unlikely the Houston Texans would trade their top WR unless things got real ugly. The Texans are at 5-4 right now but still have a solid shot at making the postseason for the first time in franchise history.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

New York: The Giants announced late Friday that MLB Antonio Pierce will be out indefinitely after a bulging disc was discovered in Pierce’s neck. Pierce was “shocked” by the news. He practiced on Friday, but experienced discomfort afterwards and was hospitalized for tests. An MRI revealed the injury, which may threaten Pierce’s season. His loss is a blow to a New York Giants run defense that has underachieved all year. Chase Blackburn will likely take over in the middle, with Michael Boley now healthy at weak-side linebacker. Look for the Giants to select a MLB in the first round of the 2010 NFL draft.

Houston: Texans RB Steve Slaton will start for the Texans against the Titans on Monday night. What ever happened to Slaton having to earn the job back? Apparently, Head Coach Gary Kubiak had a change of heart? Expect backup RBs Chris Brown and Ryan Moats to take some carries away from Slaton, perhaps short yardage and redzone.

New Orleans: Saints RB Reggie Bush (knee) and Sedrick Ellis (MCL sprain) have been downgraded to “out” and will not travel with the team to Tampa. The New Orleans Saints want to avoid a setback with Bush’s oft-surgically repaired knee and have him read for the playoffs.

Oakland: Head Coach Tom Cable revealed Friday that Michael Bush will be the Raiders’ starting tailback in Week 11 against Cincinnati. Bush started Week 10 and had 119 yards on 14 carries against the Chiefs, but now faces the Bengals’ No. 2 rush defense. This is a situation to avoid in fantasy leagues. Justin Fargas got the goal-line carries last Sunday and Darren McFadden’s role figures to grow on a weekly basis as he continues to recover from in-season knee surgery.

Buffalo: The Bills will not make any hires until after the season, according to WIVB in Buffalo. The TV station stands by their earlier report that Jon Gruden was the top choice to replace Dick Jauron, but now admits there was no face-to-face meeting. The Buffalo Bills will hold informal talks during the rest of the 2009 campaign, but interim coach Perry Fewell will finish the season as the teams head coach.

According to agent Gary Wichard, Ravens OLB/DE Terrell Suggs’ Week 10 knee injury may cost him the rest of 2009. Wichard practically spitting fire on what he is calling a “cheap shot” by Brady Quinn. “Brady launched himself into a defenseless player,” he said. “You’re a quarterback, dude. You can’t tackle, so don’t take a shot at his knee. This guy, Brady, is on the cover of Muscle & Fitness, so take him on like you’re supposed to take him on. It was an illegal play.” The loss of Suggs is a huge blow to the Baltimore Ravens defense.

Buffalo: NFL Network’s Jason LaCanfora reports the Buffalo Bills have fired head coach Dick Jauron. The move comes on the heels of a report that Ryan Fitzpatrick would replace Trent Edwards as the starting quarterback. Jauron’s decision to allow the instillation of the no-hudle offense was a disaster. Apparently, the Bills were confused and thought that Tom Brady was traded to Buffalo Bills. According to NFL.com’s Vic Carucci, defensive coordinator Perry Fewell will take over as the interim head coach.

Cincinnati: The Bengals have signed RB Larry Johnson to a one year contract. He’ll be a fourth stringer for now and there isn’t much upside for him. He probably will not be active in week 11 and might not see an important carry all season long. No reason to pick him up off of fantasy waivers.

Miami: Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown might be sent to a specialist for further examination on his right foot according to beat writer Omar Kelly. It would appear that he will not play against Carolina this week and maybe beyond. Ricky Williams will be the primary ball-carrier now for Miami Dolphins.

Miami: Dolphins beat writer Armando Salguero calls the odds of impending free agent Chad Pennington (shoulder surgeries) re-signing with Miami “very slim.” Salguero says the Fins have already found their starter (Chad Henne) and backups of the future (Pat White, Tyler Thigpen). Pennington is considered unlikely to settle for a clear-cut backup role. The Browns, Redskins, Panthers, Rams, Bills, Titans, 49ers, and perhaps Denver and Oakland will be looking for QB help this offseason, so there is no shortage of potential destinations.

Washington: Redskins RB Clinton Portis referred to his concussion Tuesday as a “major situation” and said there’s no need for him to “rush back” as long as Ladell Betts is playing well. Even though the comment was in poor taste, a concussion is nothing to laugh at and Portis should make sure he is completely healthy before returning to action.

Kansas City: The NFL suspended Kansas City Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe four games for violating the league’s policy on performance enhancing substances. The suspension begins immediately and will keep Bowe out until Week 15. Bowe reported to spring workouts 30 pounds overweight and ESPN’s Adam Schefter “gathers” that Bowe took a diuretic to shed the extra pounds, which makes sense considering he pent much of the early season in Coach Todd Haley’s doghouse.

Bills coach Dick Jauron remains hopeful that Terrell Owens will play this week even though he’s yet to practice since coming down with a strained hip Tuesday. Jauron said T.O. is “still struggling” but feeling better than he was Wednesday. “We’ll just have to see where it goes (Friday),” added Jauron. Expect Owens to be a game-time decision, but keep in mind that Owens has proven over the years that he is a very tough player and he hasn’t missed a game because of injury since his broken leg in 2004.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

San Diego: Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (hip) returned to San Diego Chargers practice Thursday. Tomlinson, who faces the Eagles top-10 rush defense on Sunday, is not a solid fantasy play.

Denver: Broncos WR Brandon Marshall was back at practice Thursday after taking off Wednesday with a back injury. He should be ready to go against the Washington Redskins on Sunday although it’s not a great match-up. The Redskins will likely attempt to shut down Marshall.

Philadelphia: Eagles RB Brian Westbrook was back at full practice for the Eagles on Thursday. His concussion and ankle are both improving and he looks like he will get the start against the Chargers. Even so, he should split carried with LeSean McCoy at best and might purley be a pass-catcher at this point.

Tennessee: Titans WR Justin Gage is unlikely to play Sunday after sustaining multiple fractures to transverse process bones in his back against the 49ers last week. The injury occurred on Gage’s spectacular leaping 33-yard catch where he landed awkwardly on his back. Gage will not require surgery, but he’s expected to miss at least two weeks while the fractures heal.

Free Agent: Agent Peter Schaffer said Thursday that Larry Johnson will not sign with a new team until Monday at the earliest. “We’re going to let this weekend’s games happen and go from there,” agent Peter Schaffer said. LJ can’t sign if he doesn’t receive any offers. As time goes on, the likelihood of Johnson signing with a team will decrease.

Minnesota: According to NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora, Vikings CB Antoine Winfield (foot) will not play against the Lions this week. Winfield has been limited in practice the past two days and the original plan called for Winfield to return next week. With the Minnesota Vikings playing the Lions on Sunday, Winfield can afford to sit out the extra week.

To date, I hold an average, but respectable 7-5 record on predicting NFL matchups.

Indianapolis Colts @ St. Louis Rams

Prediction: Colts 31, Rams 10. The Indianapolis Colts continue to roll and will win easy.

Minnesota Vikings @ Pittsburg Steelers

Prediction: Steelers 28, Vikings 21. The Vikings will not go unbeaten in 2009. The Steelers are getting healthy and will slow down the Vikings running game enough to win.

New England Patriots @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Prediction: Patriots 40, Buccaneers 14. The patriots are too good for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to even give them a scare this week.

Green Bay Packers @ Cleveland Browns

Prediction: Packers 35, Browns 14. The Packers have too much offense for the Browns to remain close in this game.

Buffalo Bills @ Carolina Panthers

Prediction: Panthers 21, Bills 17. The Carolina Panthers will an ugly game.

Atlanta Falcons @ Dallas Cowboys:

Prediction: Falcons 21, Cowboys 17. The Cowboys could win this game, but the Falcons are playing better at this point in the season.

San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Prediction: Chargers 17, Chiefs 16. The Chiefs could win this game in a possible upset special.

New York Jets @ Oakland Raiders

Prediction: Jets 21, Raiders 13. If the Raiders had any type of offense they will win this game.

Chicago Bears @ Cincinnati Bengals

Prediction: Bengals 31 Bears 28. Palmer beats Cutler in a shootout.

New Orleans Saints @ Miami Dolphins

Prediction: Saints 28, Miami Dolphins 17. The Saints are too good.

Arizona Cardinals @ New York Giants

Prediction: Giants 31, Cardinals 27. The Giants get back on the winning track against the Cardinals.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins

Prediction: Eagles 21, Redskins 10. The Redskins are a mess right now and they’re probably looking for their next head coach behind the scene.

Its that time of year, time to make your run. It’s the time when some fans get there hopes crushed, while others have the anticipation of the playoffs ahead of them. Some of the old favorites are back in the running, while the up and coming teams have started to struggle. We have seen some veteran signing’s in the past couple of weeks as the injuries start to pile up and teams look to get any advantage they can. Week 10 tends to be the week when we start to see what’s going to happen in the season, and if this past weekend is any indication we are in for a good stretch run.

What’s Wrong With Buffalo ? - Basically, a lot is wrong with the Bills. They got off to a great start, but have lost three straight divisional games and it looks like they might not even make the playoffs once again. They have been hit with some injuries DE Aaron Schobel, SS Dante Whitner and WR Josh Reed have been out, but that’s not the reason they have been losing. On the offensive side of the ball Trent Edwards is good QB, but they cannot lean on him to make all the plays. In the past couple of weeks they seem to have given up on the run and forced Edwards to make plays and they have turned the ball over. With Schobel out they have gotten no pressure on the QB, allowing the opposition to pick them apart through the air. No doubt there has been some weird coaching decisions as well, they need to stick to the run game. Buffalo is in tough now at 5 – 4, and I would assume they need to go at least 5 – 2 the rest the way to make the playoffs. If you take a look at there schedule they can do it with the Browns, 49ers, Chiefs, Dolphins, Jets, Broncos and Patriots left. In my opinion the next three weeks are must wins and the Bills should be favored in all the games. Its not over yet Bills fans, they just need to play like they did, in the first few weeks of the year.

Former long time Patriot CB Ty Law signs with the Jets and is getting ready to play against his old team this week. Huge game for the AFC East this week, as the Jets take on the Patriots.

The Denver Broncos have signed RB Tatum Bell for the remainder of the season. Denver is in a dog fight to make the playoffs and they hope Bell can improve there running game.

Can the Titans Have the Perfect Season ? - The Titans have been excellent to this point of the season, and it is time to see what the chances of seeing another perfect regular season is. Unlike the Patriots last year, the Titans aren’t blowing away there opponents, but they are winning. The winning strategy in Tennessee has been to run the ball and to play great defense and it has worked. To get to 9 – 0 they have boasted the 6th ranked rush offense, averaging more then 130 yards a game on the ground. They have the best defense in the league allowing just 13 points a game, under 200 yards through the air and under 100 yards on the ground. It has worked so far, but can they go perfect or are they even the best team in the league? They will be heavy favorites over the next five weeks playing the Jaguars, Jets, Lions, Browns and Texans. The final two weeks of the season will be the real test when they take on the Steelers and the Colts. In my opinion they won’t go perfect they will probably lose a game they are supposed to win, how about the Titans first loss is the Lions first win, you never know (doubt it!!). This team could easily go 14 – 2, and show what they can really do in the playoffs.

Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, is back from injury and may see some playing time for the Buccaneers in week 11. If you don’t remember this guy, he was the offensive rookie of the year in 2005 when he rushed for more then 1000 yards. Williams looked like he was going to be a great back in this league, but a serious injury to his knee has forced him out of action for the last 13 months. I hope he is healthy and can return to previous form and help the Bucs make a run for the playoffs.

Willie Parker set to return at running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers in week 11. He has been out some time with a shoulder injury and should be a relief to Steelers fans that he is coming back.

Seasons on the Brink – Week 11 is going to be a must win week for some teams, because a loss might end there playoff chances. Pre Season favorites the San Diego Chargers will be in tough, but they need to beat the Steelers this week to avoid falling to 4 – 6. All the playoff hope of the Green Bay Packers might slip away if they don’t win in week 11 against the Bears, same goes for the New Orleans Saints, but they play Kansas City. The Cowboys, Colts, Vikings, Bills and Eagles are all on the ropes and need wins in week 11. Obviously the playoff picture might become a lot more clear after this week, some franchises are going to be very disappointed.

Week 11 should be a stellar week with some great match ups, don’t forget the Thursday night game between the Jets and Patriots. This looks like it will be the desperation week of the season, with a lot of teams playing what seem to be must win ball games. I look forward to all the story lines of Sunday and some great NFL action.

Buffalo Bills vs New England Patriots
This is a big divisional game, that will go a along way to deciding who the favorites in the AFC East are. Buffalo has struggled in the last two game and it has to feel like a must win for the players. New England has won 9 straight games against Buffalo and will be looking to keep that trend going. The Pats defense has been playing very well of late and if the Bills want to win they will need to have a good game plan. Trent Edwards has struggled in the last couple of games, resulting in Bills loses. This game looks like it il be a run game vs run defense battle with the winner able to control the line of scrimmage. The Bills Marshawn Lynch needs to have a break out game to take some pressure off of Edwards and allow him some time in the pocket. For the Patriots Matt Cassel is starting to look comfortable, he is no Brady, but he can manage the game. If New England wants to win they will need Cassel to control the game and limit turnovers. I think the story of this game will come down to the Patriots rushing attack vs the Bills rush defense, the winner of this battle will win the game. I can’t help but notice the Bills haven’t had a big special team play in awhile and might be do to break out. This is the biggest game of the week, with the most on the line and I think it will be a close one. Patriots are home so you have to pick them, Pats win the game 21 – 17, in a back and forth game.

New York Giants vs Philadelphia Eagles
A lot of people are handing the Giants the NFC title already, but this week they will need to prove themselves. The Eagles are a good team, but haven’t performed consistently yet. The division will get a lot closer if the Eagles manage to pull off a big home game this weekend. The Eagles boast the 7th ranked defense and will put constant pressure on Eli Manning. These teams rank 1 and 2 in sacks this year and put a lot of pressure on the offensive lines of there opponents. There in lies the key to the game, which ever offensive line can manage to neutralize the rush of the defense on the other side will win this game. For the Giants they have to try and control Brian Westbrook, as Westbrook goes so does the Eagles offense. If the Giants manage to keep Westbrook down, it will put a lot of pressure on Donovan McNabb and force some mistakes. I expect a good solid defensive battle, that will be close throughout the entire game. The Eagles know they need this game to stay in the divisional hunt and will be ready to go on Sunday night. This will be a QB battle in the end, and which ever guy manages to stay on his feet and avoid turnovers will be the victor. I like the Eagles at home in this game, in a smash mouth and great defensive game. Eagles win and make the division interesting by a score of 17 – 14.

Minnesota Vikings vs Green Bay Packers
Both teams have battled consistency this year, and are off to 4 – 4 starts. Big divisional match up, especially considering that the division leader Bears are playing the Titans this week. A loss this week could seriously hurt one of these teams chances of making the playoffs. For Green Bay to win this game they will need Aaron Rodgers to play one of the best games of his career. The Vikings have the 2nd ranked rush defense, but are susceptible through the air. The Packers don’t run well and the Vikings stop the run, so it will be on Rodgers to win. On the other side of the ball you can expect the Vikings to pound Adrian Peterson at the Packers defense all day. The Vikings will look to slow the game down and get some big plays on the ground. The Packers have the 28th ranked rush defense and will probably struggle to stop Peterson all day. Strengths vs weaknesses is the story of this one, these teams seem to be built as complete opposites. The Vikings run and stop the run, while the Packers pass and stop the pass. I am being a bit of a “homer” this week and think Adrian Peterson will be to much for the Green Bay defense to handle. Should be a close game, but Minnesota wins 28 – 24.

Detroit Lions vs Jacksonville Jaguars
Well this might be the best chance for Detroit to come up with a win this year. Detroit has the 32nd ranked defense to go along with there 28th ranked offense. The Lions don’t make anything easy on themselves, and have the least amount of talent in the league. The Lions have signed Dante Culpepper and is yet to be determined whether or not he will play this week. The Lions will be in tough if they want to win, 1st they will have to improve on there 31st ranked rush defense. The Jags will run the ball at the Lions all day and wait and see if they will able to stop them. Jacksonville should have no problem winning this game as long as they don’t turn the ball over or have stupid plays that allow the Lions to score. The Jags cannot lose this game, there playoff hope are already slim and if they lose this week they will be gone. Last week Jacksonville lost to the winless Bengals, and will not want to lose to another winless team in week 10. Sorry, but I can’t pick the Lions, the Jags have something to prove and will win the game easy 31 – 10, with a big first half.

Were heading into the grind, the half way point of the season. Were starting to see who the contenders are and who the pretenders are. Injuries are starting to pile up for teams and there depth will be tested. The trading deadline is over, the rosters are set and it is time to make a run for the playoffs. There are some major questions surrounding big market teams and questions will need to be answered in the next few weeks about the rest of the season. Lets get ready to find out which teams are ready to make there runs and prove they are Super Bowl contenders.

Dallas Cowboys - What is going on in Big D, injuries, trades and suspensions have dominated the headlines this week. First off “Pacman” Jones has been suspended indefinitely by the league, and is anyone surprised. Jones knew when he got reinstated prior to this season that any screw up know matter how small would get him suspended again. He got into a fight and know he may not play for the rest of the year. If this guy wants to play football ever again, he needs to figure this stuff out and stop it. Losing “Pacman” is a big loss, but nothing compared to the injury status of QB Tony Romo. Romo has a broken pinky and will be out as the starter for up to 4 weeks.  We have already heard rumblings from there all pro wide out Terrell Owens about not getting the ball enough and now 40 year old Brad Johnson will be the starter in Dallas. As if all this wasn’t weird enough the Cowboys went out and traded for highly talented, yet under achieving wide receiver Roy Williams. I makes no sense to me you have Owens complaining because he isn’t getting the ball, so you go out and get another wide receiver who will want the ball as well. Not to mention the fact that the Cowboys best chance to win might be by running the ball with Barber. I don’t know how this is all going to play out, we all remember what Owens can do when he isn’t happy with an organization. Maybe this will work out perfect, maybe Owens is happy to lose catches to Williams, maybe Johnston plays like he’s 28 again and maybe even “Pacman” gets back on the field. All I know is there is going to be a lot of question marks that need answering in Dallas over the next few weeks, it should be entertaining to watch.

AFC East - This division has been owned by the New England Patriots for a long time, but we might be seeing a changing of the guard. The Buffalo Bills have gotten off to a 4 -1 start and the Dolphins and Jets are playing better then a lot expected. All these teams have soft schedules and may have better records then they should. In week 7 a big game between the Chargers and Bills to see whether or not the Bills are for real and can take charge of this division. On Sunday it looks like Bills QB Trent Edwards will play, giving them a much better chance of competing with the Chargers. I think this might be the best division to watch coming down the stretch this year, no one is out of it and if they all play well they all might have a chance at the division crown.

Shaun Alexander signs a one year deal with the Washington Redskins
Willie Parker (Pit), Joseph Addai (Ind), Felix Jones (Dal) are all injured running backs
Carson Palmer (Cin), Matt Hasselbeck (Sea) are both out as QB’s this week

Most Valuable Player - It’s a little early, but lets take a look at who have been the best players and front runners for the MVP this year. Lets start a QB and take a look at Drew Brees. Brees leads the league in throwing yards, with 12 TD passes so far this year. Drew has a QB rating of 105 and is probably the front runner so far, if the award was given out today he would win. Other QB’s Jay Cutler and Kurt Warner are also off to great starts and if they keep it up will be in the MVP discussion at seasons end. If you want to look at running backs, you need to start with the Redskins Clinton Portis. Portis is averaging almost 5 yards a carry and has amassed 640 yards and 6 TD’s so far this year. If you had to pick an MVP right now it would be between Portis and Brees, both guys have led there teams thus far. If you want to look at wide outs Greg Jennings (GB), Roddy White (Atl) and Larry Fitzgerald (Arz) are leading the league at this point.

Playoff Predictions - There are still a lot of question marks, but lets make some early season playoff predictions. In the AFC I think Pittsburgh and Tennessee will win there divisions pretty easily. The other two divisions aren’t that easy, but I like the Bills to hang on in the East and the Chargers to start playing better and win the West. The two wild card spots will be grabbed up by the Colts and Patriots. The NFC division winners will be the Packers, Panthers, Cardinals and Giants. There is going to be some very disappointed teams here, but I think the wildcard teams will be the Cowboys and Saints. Potential Super Bowl match up Pittsburgh Steelers vs New Orleans Saints ??

Predictions are what they are, fun to examine, but ultimately only time will tell. I think we should see a lot of great battles over the next few weeks and after that I will take a look and re-evaluate my MVP and playoff predictions. The biggest story over th next couple of weeks will be the Cowboys, they have a lot of talent and if they some how can manage to use all of it they will be great.