Brian Westbrook to 49ers

A league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter that Westbrook's deal is worth $1.25 million guaranteed, with $1.25 million worth of incentives. ESPN

I like this move for the 49ers because it gives Alex Smith another check down guy and will take some of the workload off Frank Gore's shoulders. The 49ers offense has a lot of players Michael Crabtree, Frank Gore, Vernon Davis and now Brian Westbrook. If Alex Smith can put his shit together and if that defense can still be good, they will surprise a lot of people in the NFL.

Westbrook To Pick New Team Monday

Reports have come out that Brain Westbrook will pick his new team by Monday. The three leading candidates all along have been the St. Louis Rams, Washington Redskins and Denver Broncos. Yet, some people think another team could be involved.

Who knows what he will pick, but to me the Broncos, Packers, and Vikings make the most sense. I have heard that Westbrook is trying to avoid playing for a team that has AstroTurf, so that could take the Vikings out. The Packers make a lot of sense to me. They have been looking for a 3rd down back for a couple of weeks now, and Westbrook would seem to be the perfect fit. Broncos also make a lot of sense with the injuries they have already had to deal with in their backfield.

Westbrook To Pick New Team Soon

Brian Westbrook is rumored to be close to signing with a new team. The problem is that no one seems to know, which one. Reports indicate that he is picking between the Redskins, Broncos, and Rams.

I really don't get the Redskins one. They have a bunch of RBs, and really don't have much use for Westbrook. I think a lot of it is just his tie with McNabb, and nothing will come of it. The Rams also don't make a lot of sense to me, since Westbrook would have 0% chance of even making the playoffs.

That leaves the Broncos. Sure they aren't the best, but at least they are competitive, and there is somewhat of a need there. So, if it is between these 3 teams the Broncos by far make the most sense.

Rams Close To Signing Westbrook?

With the draft over a lot of teams have dropped out of the Brian Westbrook hunt (ex- Vikings), but there are still a lot of teams out there that could be interested in his services. The Rams are one of those teams, and they brought him in for a physical, which he passed. It would seem that they are close to getting a deal done, but some reports state that they are still in the early stages of negotiations.

To me Westbrook would be an idiot if he went there. Why go to a team that has no shot of winning? It isn't like Westbrook should be hurting for money, but I guess if he wants one last sizable payday that's where he should go. My hope is that he wants more then that (a ring), and that he will turn around and sign with the Packers.

Packers Getting Closer To Signing Westbrook

DP and I talked about where Brian Westbrook might land a couple weeks ago on our radio show. The two strongest cases were for the Vikings and Packers, well it looks like we may have been right on the money, as rumors as surfacing today that the Packers are taking a long look into signing future Hall of Famer Brian Wekstbrook.

"Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel received info from two sources on Monday that the Packers have "shown interest" in Westbrook. ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter confirmed on Tuesday morning that the team has contacted Westbroo (ESPN)."

It just makes sense. The Packers have been looking for a backup to Grant for a couple years now, even getting so desperate they brought back Ahman Green. Westbrook is not a #1 RB anymore, but that doesn't mean he can't be the best 3rd down back in the buisness. He can catch, run, and block, what more could you ask for from your 3rd down back. With a passing offense like the Packers I think this is a perfect fit, and I wouldn't be surprised if he signs within the next couple weeks.

Westbrook Says Vick Will Be Traded

I wrote a post earlier about the Rams might be taking Bradford with the #1 pick. My argument for the Rams not taking Bradford with the #1 pick has been that I think Vick is going to the Rams. This seems to be gaining some steam as Westbrook was on the Dan Patrick show this week and said that Vick will "definitely" be traded before the start of next season.

Some Eagles fans seem to think that Vick is staying, but I don't buy it for a second. The Eagles have other areas they need to focus on, and Vick isn't even their 2nd QB (Kolb is), so it really would be fucking stupid to keep Vick.

The two top teams that keep coming up in Vick rumors is the Bills and Rams. Both teams make a lot of sense, but something tells me that the Rams are the much more likely option (could be because I think Vick is better in a dome).

Breaking News: Eagles Cut Brian Westbrook

The Philadelphia Eagles announced that they are releasing running back Brian Westbrook. The official announcement will be make around 3pm today. It has to be a sad day for any Philly fan. He has meant so much to that team, and it is really too bad he never got a ring with them.

Westbrook was one of the most versatile running backs I have ever seen. I kind of hope he retires. He has had way too many concussions and I would hate to see anything terrible happen to him. Truly one of the "good guys" in the NFL, and he will be missed (if he retires).

Westbrook To Retire After Playoffs?

"In the two games following his concussion-based hiatus, Philadelphia Eagles tailback Brian Westbrook has been used sparingly, with just 20 overall touches. He was the primary backfield option against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17, it's just that the Eagles' offense didn't do anything.

But the upcoming playoff run could be his last, as speculation has mounted that he'll consider retirement this offseason. Regarding Westbrook's potential retirement, Adam Caplan of Scouts.com tweeted that it's likely greater than 50-50 that Westbrook does call it quits this offseason (ESPN)."

After 2 scary concussion, it has to be going through Westbook's head that it might be time to hang'em up. If I was the Eagles I would probably cut him in the offseason anyways, since they have a nice up and coming back in McCoy, and I just don't see Westbrook playing for anyone else other then the Eagles. Still, what the Eagles do in the playoffs (and what Westbrook does) could change everything...

Westbrook Still Out?

"In spite of his return to practice last week, Brian Westbrook's timeline for a return to game action is still anyone's guess. On Tuesday night, Brian Seltzer of 950 ESPN Radio had word from an inside Eagles source that Westbrook would get "very little" work with the first team unit in practice this week, but did confirm that the back is truly "day-to-day." Moreover, the source said there was a chance that Westbrook could play this week against the San Francisco 49ers if his condition improves rapidly.

But the latest word is that head coach Andy Reid "gingerly acknowledged" Westbrook has not cleared the neurological tests related to his concussion, and the insinuation is that he won't be activated this Sunday (ESPN)."

It really sounds like he won't play this week, which is making me question what will happen to him after this season. Westbrook is going to make $7.25 million next season, and most likely he will have to rework his contract if he wants to stay with the Eagles. If he doesn't I think Westbrook will be cut. Another team would take a chance on him, but for nowhere near that amount. It is amazing how fast a career can change in just a year...

DeSean Jackson Injury Update

"With the Philadelphia Eagles' Sunday night showdown against the New York Giants taking on extra significance following Big Blue's win over the Dallas Cowboys this past Sunday, eyes will shift to the Eagles' injury report this week, because two dynamic offensive weapons could both return from concussions. WR DeSean Jackson, who lost consciousness during his recent concussion, appeared on ESPN 950 on Monday and vowed to play against the Giants. Meanwhile, teammate Brian Westbrook is also a candidate to return to game action, as we had word yesterday that Westbrook is expected to join the team for practice this week. Under the league's nascent concussion policy, an independent neurologist must approve Jackson's return, so his guarantee should be taken with a grain of salt (ESPN)."

I think there is a much better shot at Jackson playing then Westbrook, but neither player is going to be allowed to play unless the 3rd party doctor clears then. My gut is telling me Jackson will be out there, but Westbrook I am not so sure on since he has been having problems all year, and I am not sold that he is ready to take the field again yet. This is probably the Eagles biggest game of the year, so you know the team will do whatever it can to get these guys out there...

Westbrook Out For Season?

"In his first action since suffering a concussion in Week 7 against the Washington Redskins, Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook made it through the first half against the San Diego Chargers before he was concussed again on what coach Andy Reid called a "heck of a hit." Although no specific timeline is given, Reid did say, "In these types of situations, football is secondary. You have to look out for this kid for his future and make sure he is OK before he gets back out there." It doesn't sound like he's going to be back very soon, if at all (ESPN)."

We could be witnessing the end of Westbrook's career. This is now more then 1 concussion on the season, and with the NFL attempting to crack down on players playing with concussions this really could be the end of the season for Westbrook. He is a hell of a player, but he has to think of his long term health.

Look for McCoy to get the bulk of the carrier (he already kind of was anyways), and you have to wonder if the Eagles can battle back from all these devastating injuries...

Westbrook To Play vs. Dallas

"Eagles head coach Andy Reid said Monday that he expects RB Brian Westbrook to be ready for next Sunday's NFC East showdown with Dallas. Westbrook was deactivated in Week 8 vs. the Giants after suffering a concussion last week at Washington. LeSean McCoy took his place and totaled 92 total yards and a touchdown. "We're going to be (cautious)," Reid said. "We're going to make sure that he's okay to perform. We're not going to do anything to put him in jeopardy there (ESPN)."

I think the Eagles are the 2nd best team in the NFC behind the Saints. If Westbrook can get healthy and McCoy keeps playing as well as he has this team is going to be great. I love what they have done with their WRs, and I expect them to only get better through this season and into next.

Fantasy wise Westbrook could still be a risk. There is no word on how much he will play, and I think the general focus of the Eagles is going to be to keep him healthy for a deep playoff run. I would sit him for 1 more week and see how much he really is going to play before banking my fantasy team on him.

Westbrook Still Not Practicing

"Eagles RB Brian Westbrook remained sidelined in practice Friday, giving him a full week without practicing with his teammates in preparation for Week 8 against the Giants. He continues to feel the effects of a concussion suffered early in last week's game at Washington. Typically if a player can't practice by Friday, he doesn't play on Sunday, but Westbrook has gone the week without practicing before and suited up for the game (Sportsline)."

I would be really shocked if he plays, especially with Congress getting after the NFL about concussions. If LeSean McCoy is still a free agent in your league pick him up, and if you have Westbrook you should really be ready to play someone else. Right now Westbrook is a game time decision.

Brian Westbrook Out For 2 Weeks

The debate over Brian Westbrook's role in the Philadelphia Eagles' offense is quite moot this week, as Westbrook sustained a concussion in Monday night's win over the Washington Redskins after his head collided with linebacker London Fletcher's knee. After the play, Westbrook remained motionless on the field for minutes before making his way to the sideline. ESPN

Pick up LeSean McCoy people. This sucks for the iggles who lose their top playmaker on offense. Especially since they are going against the Giants and the Cowboys the next two weeks. The Eagles still have a chance to win against the sputtering Giants behind Donovan's arm and a bad Giants secondary. LeSean McCoy was great in college and think he can be a very capable RB in the NFL, so I think they can weather the storm.

Westbrook To Play This Weekend

"In what should be considered a good sign, Eagles RB Brian Westbrook took part in practice with the team Monday and should be a go for Week 5 vs. the Bucs according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Westbrook missed Week 3 vs. the Chiefs with a sprained ankle and rested the injury during the bye week (Sportsline)."

The Eagles are one of the most talented teams in the league. Even when McNabb and Westbrook were out they were still better then 50% of the teams in the NFL. Now with both of them looking like they are healthy I expect them to really starting playing great football. The question is how long can they keep these guys healthy?

Bad News For Westbrook's Fantasy Value

"Czarnecki entails rumors that Westbrook will not come close to the 350-touches mark -- he had just 287 during the regular season in 2008 -- and that he will not be handling the full-time goal-line duties either. No replacement is named for this latter role, but the team could make use of the 250-pound frame of fullback Leonard Weaver, who was added this offseason (ESPN)."

Oh the dreaded great running back who will not be used in goal line situations. Westbrook is still awesome, but I don't have the same great feeling going into this year. he has been banged up, and the Eagles know they need to protect him. They have built a good team this year, and they know they need Westbrook for the playoffs, so expect his numbers to be lower this season.

Westbrook To Have Surgery

"Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook will have surgery to clean up some bone spurs in his right ankle, according to his agent, Todd France. Dr. Mark Meyerson will perform the operation in Baltimore. The Eagles called the procedure "a debridement" of the ankle. France had no timetable for Westbrook's return but characterized the procedure as minor. Another source, however, said the surgery could sideline Westbrook well into training camp. Eagles veterans report to training camp on July 29 (ESPN)."

This is a story that will fly under the radar, but any Eagles fan has to be somewhat concerned. There are conflicting reports about how long it will take Westbrook to recover. My thinking is that he might miss a little bit of training camp, but I do expect him to be fine. What bothers me here is why didn't he have this surgery earlier in the offseason, so missing time wouldn't be a questions. This was either bad planning by Westbrook or the Eagles' medical staff.

You Know What Really Grinds My Gears?

Fucking Eagles fans

Living just south of Philly i am within the media realm that is Philadelphia sports. However i am one of the few residents of this area who has a brain when it comes to sports. I love the Phillies, always have, always will...but unlike most people around here im not a huge Eagles guy. I like the team though, I like Donovon, I like Brian Westbrook and Dawkins, but the thing is...i hate the fans.

The local papers around here have lately been filled with people STILL trashing Andy Reid. Fans writing in, saying its time for him and McNabb to hit the bricks and their time is over. What a bunch of stupid bullshit. This is a coach that is NOT ONLY the most winningest coach in franchise history but he has gotten the team to the NFC championship 5 of the last 10 seasons you stupid ignorant fucks. have they won it all? obviously not. So ya, be a little frustrated to have gotten so close so many times and not come home with a ring...but realize how lucky you are to have gotten there and stop trashing the two major reasons it happened at all. What a bunch of stupid fat, cheese stake loving, eagle chantin, Santa Claus hatin, unintelligent imbeciles.


I should be a huge Eagles fan. I grew up around a bunch of them, and i am a lifelong Phillies fan. but the people who claim they know football and yet still cant recognize a successful situation when its right in front of them are the reason I will never swear allegiance to the Eagles. I hope the Eagles lose on Sunday and I hope Donavon throws for 4 TDs in the losing effort. Watch Philly get all riled up about how shitty he played.

So ya, thats what really grinds my gears.
Fuck.

Anatomy of an Ass Fucking

Guys that talk about their fantasy team to other guys (or God forbid, broads) not associated with their league are douchy as fuck. So allow me to be a douche bag for just a minute and share the lemon party I had to endure this evening.

I came into tonight trailing by a manageable 15 points in the semi's of the only fantasy league I give a shit about. $600 first place payout on the line with the second place team taking home a respectable $300. I have lived and died by the McNabb/Westbrook tandem all year and tonight was no different. 15 points out of two guys who regularly pile on 40+ for me, especially in recent weeks. Easy. Except for one small obstacle, my opponent had Philly's D.

Even going up against the D, the only way he was going to keep his lead was with a Philly defensive score and a bunch of picks and sacs. Guess what? He got both. Asante (which apparently means Thank You in Swahili) Samuel brought an errant Ken Dorsey throw to the endzone in the second quarter. Yeah, thanks a lot you route jumping, cherry picking abortion of a cornerback. Dorsey managed to get himself sacked a couple times thereafter and even threw a second interceptions just for good measure.

On the other side of the ball, the Eagles could not score from inside the red zone to save their season. If they weren't playing a team so offensively inept, this was a game they could have easily lost. MaNabb threw for two TD's and had a solid 290 yards but with only three of theses tosses going to Westbrook (none for TD's) and an interception of his own, I came up on the fat end of the stick...right in my dickhole.

I lost by 2.20 points. McNabb's interception directly cost me the game. McNabb's inability to throw for 10 more yards (3 point bonus @ 300 yards) directly cost me this game. Westbrook's pathetic three catch performance in a season he's routinely caught 8 or more (@ 1 point per reception) directly cost me this game. The Philly offense 1/4 performance from inside the 10 yard line directly cost me this game.

So while Philly won easy and kept their playoff hopes alive, they managed to crush mine and send me on my way $600 poorer.

NFL Injury Updates

Sammy Morris - Will not play today with a knee injury.

LaMont Jordan - Will not play with an ankle injury, that leaves the Pats with Kevin Faulk, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and Heath Evan in the backfield.

Steven Jackson - Will not play today, because of a thigh injury. Antonio Pittman will start in his place.

Tony Romo - Is still out with a broken finger, Johnson will get another start. Hopefully he never plays again.

Clinton Portis - Will play today. He is always banged up, but might be the best RB in the NFL so far.

Brian Westbrook - The bye week helped, and his ribs seems like they have healed up. The Eagles certainly need him.

Anquan Boldin - Will play today, but he will only play 30-35 plays. After that hit it's good to see him back on the field.

That's all I got for now.

-BMack