Washington Redskins
The ‘Skins signed Derrick Blaylock Sunday, formally of the Jets, to compete for the third running back spot behind Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. Speaking of Portis, the Washington Times reports offensive coordinator Al Saunders doesn’t know when his starting tailback will be ready for camp. Portis is still recovering from hand and shoulder injuries from ’06 and the early indication is that he might not be ready until training camp or later.
Oakland Raiders
The San Francisco Chronicle speculates Dominic Rhodes will be the opening week starter at tailback, not Lamont Jordan. It’s still early however, and it’s worth noting new head coach Lane Kiffin used four different running backs in his offense at USC last year. Rhodes, Jordan and rookie fourth round pick Michael Bush will all get looks through mini and training camps. And why not, the Raiders offense was abysmal last year; might as well find the right back. In other Oakland news, defensive end Derrick Burgess reported to mini camp, even though there were rumors he might hold out.
Chicago Bears
According to the Washington Post, the Bears are shopping defensive end Alex Brown. By drafting LSU safety LaRon Landry with their first pick in the draft, the Redskins failed to address their lack of pass-rush and could be a team interested in the former Pro Bowler Brown. Chicago is apparently after a second rounder in exchange for Brown, which is a realistic demand as far as Washington is concerned considering its always ready to part with draft picks.
Miami Dolphins
After rumors circulated that head coach Cam Cameron was upset about his weight, running back Ronnie Brown is back down to 234 pounds. His playing weight last year was 232, so obviously he wasn’t too overweight. The Miami Herald reports Cameron is encouraged what he’s seen out of Brown thus far and has high expectations for him heading into ’07.
