Backus Gets Franchise Tag

Right tackle Jeff Backus was designated the Detroit Lions ' franchise player, allowing the Lions to match any offer that he gets.

Backus will be offered a one-year contract worth the average of the top five salaries at his position, or $6.98 million. The team can continue to negotiate a long-term contract, while Backus is not required to attend team activities until he signs the franchise tender.

The NFL Combine

The combine is one of the rare win-win situations the NFL offers. The teams go and check out every player at the invite-only workouts … one-stop shopping for the draft.

But for the players that go, it's even more valuable because they can show off what they can do in workouts for all the decision-makers (head coaches, general managers, personnel directors and owners) from all 32 teams.

It's the biggest job fair any college prospect could ever imagine having. And every player could "move up" the draft boards thanks to their workouts.

Abraham Franchise Player

The Jets designated defensive end John Abraham as their franchise player, as expected.

Abraham was named the team's franchise player last year and was unhappy with the situation. He waited quietly until the end of training camp to sign his one-year tender, then played in all 16 games and had 10.5 sacks. Because he played an entire year without getting hurt, Abraham hoped the team would give him the long-term deal he wanted.

But instead, the team opted for the franchise tag again at a cost of $8.33 million for 2006, nearly $2 million more than last year. However, his chances of being on the team are up in the air. Because the Jets are going to be so far over the salary cap, they will explore the option of trading Abraham.

Brees in the air

When my friend Ryan called me last night and told me the Chargers where planning on letting Drew Brees test out free agency I could not believe it. He was pissed and I was shocked.

I really can't image what they are thinking. Do they honestly think Rivers has what it takes? Do they honestly think no one will show any interest?

This should get very interesting, if Brees is still a charger after March 3rd I will be very surprised. I am very sure more than one head coach in the NFL just circled March 3rd on their calendars.