Minnesota Vikings
Cornerback Antoine Winfield hasn’t partaken in any of the Vikings’ voluntary activities this offseason. When asked about why one of his starting defenders has been a no show, head coach Brad Childress remarked, “you’d have to ask him.” Childress also told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, “He (Winfield) hasn’t been here in the offseason program and that’s a guy’s prerogative.” While it’s true Winfield doesn’t have to show up to any voluntary workouts, Childress and the rest of Minnesota’s brass can’t be too pleased with him being a no show, especially considering how poor the team’s pass defense was last year (i.e. tied for dead last in the league).
Cleveland Browns
Speaking of no shows, wide receiver Braylon Edwards wasn’t at the Browns first day of voluntary workouts either. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Edwards is expected to be in camp on Wednesday, but head coach Romeo Crennel is said to be disappointed. Edwards – who because of injuries and a struggling Browns offense has been somewhat a disappointment since being drafted third overall in ‘05 – has been vocal about being more of a playmaker in Cleveland, but this isn’t a good start. Still, however, it’s only the first day and he has plenty of time to make up for his absence.
New York Jets
Cornerback Justin Miller was charged with third-degree assault after punching a woman in a bar early Sunday morning. Miller was apparently aiming for a man, but apparently the guy ducked out of the way and the woman was hit. According to the New York Daily Post, Miller – who is one of the league’s best returners – isn’t expected to face punishment by the NFL or the Jets until the case is heard in court. Either way, Miller’s been in the team’s doghouse before and considering the Jets traded up in order to land Pitt cornerback Darrelle Revis in last month’s draft, he looks to be falling out of favor quickly in New York. He’s extremely talented, but this recent incident might be the last straw for the Jets.
