Giants Sign Barry Cofield, Cut Brandon Meriweather
THURSDAY, 9:13am: The Giants have officially signed Cofield, the team announced today in a press release.
WEDNESDAY, 2:15pm: The Giants are making a change on defense, signing one veteran player while cutting another, according to reports. Dan Graziano of ESPN.com tweets that New York is waiving safety Brandon Meriweather, while ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that defensive tackle Barry Cofield will fill the newly-created opening on the roster.
Cofield, who started his career with the Giants, suffered his first major injury in 2014, as he missed about half the season after an ankle injury forced him onto the injured reserve list with the designation to return. While the defensive lineman returned to action for Washington in November, he only started three of eight games for the season, marking the first time since 2007 that he appeared in a game he didn’t start.
The 31-year-old underwent offseason hip surgery, which kept him on the free agent market for longer than expected, but it appears the Giants liked what they saw of Cofield during an early-December workout, resulting in him landing an NFL job.
Meriweather, a starting safety for the Giants’ first 11 games, has been inactive during the last two weeks as he deals with a knee issue. The 31-year-old, who is currently ranked 67th by Pro Football Focus out of 86 qualified safeties, had 53 tackles and a pair of interceptions for New York this season. Based on the official announcement from the Giants, it doesn’t appear that Meriweather was cut with an injury designation.
West Notes: Manning, Houston, Boone, 49ers
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Broncos head coach Gary Kubiak announced that Brock Osweiler would continue to start for his team in Week 15, with Trevor Siemian serving as the No. 2 quarterback (Twitter link via Troy Renck of the Denver Post). That means Peyton Manning will be inactive for another week, despite the fact that he has returned to practice.
If and when Manning gets healthy, he has earned another shot at the starting job, in the view of Charles Robinson of Yahoo! Sports. Osweiler had all the momentum after his first couple starts, but the Broncos are coming off a home loss and haven’t scored an offensive touchdown in seven quarters. If he continues to struggle this weekend against the Steelers, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Manning return to action to play Cincinnati in Week 16, assuming he’s ready to go by then.
Here’s more from out of the NFL’s West divisions:
- As first reported by Rand Getlin of the NFL Network (Twitter link), Chiefs pass rusher Justin Houston paid a visit to Dr. James Andrews recently, tweets Terez A. Paylor of the Kansas City Star. According to Getlin, there was “some fear” that Houston could miss the rest of the regular season, but there’s been no official word yet on the 26-year-old’s status.
- Veteran guard Alex Boone – who is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the season – has likely played his last game for the 49ers, having not gotten close to a long-term extension with the team, writes Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com. Still, while he’s looking forward to free agency, Boone says he’d “love to hear an offer” from the Niners.
- Shortly after a San Francisco Chronicle columnist speculated about the York family selling the 49ers, co-owner John York acknowledged on Wednesday that he has been disappointed by the on-field results this season. However, as Daniel Brown of the San Jose Mercury News details, York also said his family is “extremely passionate” about the Niners, and is looking ahead to the future of the franchise.
- Writers and columnists for the Bay Area News Group looked into their crystal balls to attempt to determine who will be back and who won’t be for the 49ers in 2016.
Extra Points: Gailey, Chargers, Steelers, Gordon
Chan Gailey had been out of the NFL for two seasons when newly-hired Jets coach Todd Bowles offered him the offensive coordinator gig. At 63-year-olds, Gailey didn’t even hesitate to accept the job. Why didn’t he need time to consider the position?
“There’s one big reason, and it’s a personal reason,” Gailey told ESPN.com’s Rich Cimini. “I want to win a championship.”
After nearly two decades in the league and four Super Bowl appearances (three with the Broncos, one with the Steelers), Gailey had yet to win a championship.
Let’s take a look at some more assorted notes from around the league as we wrap up this Wednesday evening…
- In an interesting piece for FOX Sports, Alex Marvez explores why – unlike their offensive and defensive counterparts – special teams coordinators hardly ever receive consideration for NFL head coaching jobs.
- Former Chargers safety Jimmy Wilson was the notable name to clear waivers today, tweets Michael Gehlken the San Diego Union-Tribune. The 29-year-old is now free to sign anywhere.
- Cornerback Stanley Jean-Baptiste worked out for the Steelers today, reports ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter (via Twitter). The 25-year-old was the Saints’ second-round pick in 2014.
- Embattled Browns wideout Josh Gordon is eligible to apply for reinstatement on February 3rd, and Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports (via Twitter) that the receiver has been doing “outstanding” during his yearlong suspension.
Luke Adams contributed to this post.
NFC Notes: Michael, Jeffery, Trattou, Cousins
The Seahawks inked running back Christine Michael to a contract earlier today, his second stint with the organization. The former second-rounder was traded prior to the season, and with all of the injuries in Seattle’s backfield, he’s hoping his second chance ends better than his first.
“I’m just here to work and give you guys all I have,” he told reporters, including Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times. “That’s all I can do. All I want to do. And I told them just like that.’’
Let’s take a look at some more notes from around the NFC…
- Alshon Jeffery ranked number two in the first installment of our 2016 free agent power rankings, but he’s not the only important Bears player on an expiring deal. Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.com takes a look at four more to go along with Jeffery.
- After re-signing with the Vikings, defensive end Justin Trattou admitted that he got an offer from another team during his brief time as a free agent, but turned it down because he wanted to remain in Minnesota. “I really didn’t want to go anywhere else,” Trattou said, according to Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. “I’m happy where I’m at.”
- While Panthers cornerback Josh Norman is considered one of the top free-agents-to-be at any position for 2016, there are plenty of other corners who should be in line for nice deals, including Sean Smith of the Chiefs and Janoris Jenkins of the Rams. Jason Fitzgerald of Over the Cap takes a closer look at the cornerback market.
- Former sports agent (and current writer for CBSSports.com) Joel Corry examined what Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins‘ next contract will look like. Corry wonders if Cousins could receive a deal similar to the two-year, $24.5MM (worth up to $38MM) extension between the Rams and Nick Foles.
Ben Levine contributed to this post.
Minor NFL Transactions: 12/16/15
Let’s round up Wednesday’s minor 53-man roster moves from around the NFL:
- To make room for Mostert (see below), the Browns waived wideout Darius Jennings, tweets Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. The writer expects Jennings to return to the team’s practice squad.
- After having claimed Davis (see below), the Colts released linebacker Edwin Jackson, reports Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle (via Twitter).
- Following a busy day of transactions, the Patriots signed defensive lineman Ishmaa’ily Kitchen (via Wilson on Twitter).
Earlier updates:
- The Colts have filled the 53rd spot on their roster by claiming safety and special-teamer Akeem Davis off waivers from the Seahawks (Twitter link via Kevin Bowen of Colts.com).
- The Dolphins have elevated quarterback Logan Thomas from their practice squad to their active roster, cutting veteran offensive lineman Jeff Linkenbach to accommodate the move, the team announced today (via Twitter). Per Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (via Twitter), the move was motivated by a desire to protect Thomas from the Bengals, who attempted to sign him off Miami’s practice squad.
- The Bengals have officially announced a move that was reported yesterday, confirming (via Twitter) that they’ve promoted quarterback Keith Wenning from their practice squad. Wenning will provide some insurance at the position while Andy Dalton remains on the shelf.
- Former Colts cornerback Tony Carter is signing with the Saints, tweets Rand Getlin of the NFL Network. Meanwhile, Kristian Garic of WWL 870AM reports (via Twitter) that running back and kick returner Marcus Murphy will be placed on IR by New Orleans due to an ankle injury, so that may be the corresponding move for Carter’s signing.
- A day after he was cut by the Ravens, RB/KR Raheem Mostert has been claimed off waivers by the division-rival Browns, according to agent Brett Tessler (via Twitter). It’s been an eventful season for Mostert, who was signed by the Dolphins off the Eagles’ practice squad, then claimed off waivers from Miami by Baltimore.
- The Titans have officially placed injured running back Dexter McCluster on IR, using the open roster spot to sign safety Josh Aubrey from their practice squad, tweets Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com.
- The Chargers have filled their two open roster spots by bringing back a pair of familiar faces, re-signing safety Adrian Phillips and quarterback Brad Sorensen, according to a team release.
NFL Practice Squad Updates: 12/16/15
Here are Wednesday’s practice squad signings and cuts from around the NFL, with the latest moves added to the list throughout the day:
Baltimore Ravens
- Signed: G Eric Herman (Twitter link via team)
Cincinnati Bengals
- Signed: WR Michael Bennett (Twitter link via team)
Indianapolis Colts
- Signed: RB LaDarius Perkins (press release via team), LB Amarlo Herrera (Twitter link via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle)
New England Patriots
- Signed: LB Kevin Snyder (link via Dan Duggan of NJ.com)
- Cut: WR Austin Hill, DT Kelcy Quarles (Twitter link via Doug Kyed of NESN.com)
New Orleans Saints
- Signed: WR Shane Wynn (Twitter link via Evan Woodbery of NOLA.com)
Philadelphia Eagles
- Signed: CB Mike Lee (Twitter link via team)
- Cut: S Craig Bills (failed physical)
San Diego Chargers
- Signed: S Matt Daniels, CB Keith Lewis (press release via team)
Seattle Seahawks
- Signed: WR B.J. Daniels, DT Justin Hamilton (Twitter links via Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times)
Tennessee Titans
- Signed: WR Nick Harwell, QB Mike Kafka (Twitter link via Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com)
Washington
- Signed: TE Ray Hamilton (Twitter link via Mike Jones of The Washington Post)
Patriots Meeting With Steven Jackson
7:05pm: There’s nothing imminent between the two sides, reports Rapoport (via Twitter), who notes that the Patriots appear to be “set for the time being.”
9:00am: Jackson will work out for the Patriots when he visits the team today, tweets Ian Rapoport of NFL.com. Rapoport also notes that Jackson wants to play for a contender, as the veteran free agent said back in May.
8:54am: With LeGarrette Blount and Dion Lewis both out for the rest of the season, the Patriots figure to rely more heavily on Brandon Bolden and James White going forward. However, the team signed Montee Ball to its practice squad on Tuesday, and now seems to be considering at least one more veteran free agent.
According to Ed Werder of ESPN.com (via Twitter), the Patriots are meeting with former Rams and Falcons running back Steven Jackson today, based on mutual interest between the two sides. Between his time as Denver’s head coach and his return to New England, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels served as the Rams’ offensive coordinator for a season in 2011, so he has some history with Jackson.
While Jackson had an excellent run in St. Louis, rushing for more than 1,000 yards in eight straight seasons and earning three Pro Bowl nods, he appeared to have lost a step during his two years with the Falcons. In 27 games with Atlanta, Jackson ran for 1,250 yards on 347 carries, an average of 3.6 yards per attempt. He was cut by the team in February and there have been no reports of him working out for NFL teams since then.
Still, if the Patriots think Jackson has stayed in game shape during his absence from the NFL – he hasn’t played a game in nearly a full year – then perhaps the team will take a flier on him down the stretch. For now, we’ll have to wait to see how today’s meeting goes.
Workout Notes: 12/16/15
It’s been a busy last couple of days around the NFL, with teams still looking to fill up their squads for the rest of the season. Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle tweeted a whole bunch of workout notes this afternoon, which we’ve compiled for you below…
Arizona Cardinals
- CB Mitchell White (link)
Atlanta Falcons
- OT Cody Booth (link)
- DE Xzavier Dickson (link)
- OG Cole Manhart (link)
Buffalo Bills
- TE Andrew Gleichert (link)
- LB James-Michael Johnson (link)
- TE Jacob Maxwell (link)
Carolina Panthers
- OG Al Bond (link)
- DT Eric Crume (link)
- CB Travell Dixon (link)
- QB Zac Dysert (link)
- TE Joseph Fauria (link)
- NT Ishmaa’ily Kitchen (link)
- C Tyler Larsen (link)
- OG Matthew Masifilo (link)
- OG Shelley Smith (link)
- S Usama Young (link)
Patriots To Place LeGarrette Blount On IR
WEDNESDAY, 4:15pm: The Patriots have officially placed Blount on the Injured Reserve, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (via Twitter).
TUESDAY, 5:45pm: Awful news for the Patriots as the club will be forced to place LeGarrette Blount on IR, according to a report from WEEI. The powerful tailback suffered a hip injury on Sunday night against the Texans. Blount finishes out the season with 703 yards and six touchdowns off of 165 carries.
As it stands, the Pats have only James White and Brandon Bolden on their active roster at running back. However, Trey Williams is on the practice squad along with Montee Ball, who was signed on Tuesday, so it’s not guaranteed that they will sign an RB for the 53-man roster. At the very least, however, one would expect them to sign a tailback for the taxi squad if they promote Williams or Ball.
Of course, this hasn’t been the best day for New England. Earlier this afternoon we learned that defensive tackle Dominique Easley would be placed on IR, ending his season. Now, the team has major holes to fill on both sides of the football.
Seahawks Sign Christine Michael
A day after running back Christine Michael was cut from Washington’s practice squad, he has found a new NFL home, and it’s a familiar one. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll told reporters today that Seattle has re-signed Michael (Twitter link).
Prior to the start of the regular season, the Seahawks decided to move on from Michael, who had been one of Marshawn Lynch‘s backups in 2013 and 2014. Seattle sent the former second-round pick to the Cowboys, but Dallas cut him in November. In five games with the Cowboys, Michael ran for just 51 yards on 15 attempts, adding a single reception for two yards.
When Michael became a free agent yesterday, we speculated that a return to Seattle might be in the cards, since the Seahawks have had to deal with several injuries in their backfield. Rookie Thomas Rawls is out for the year, while Marshawn Lynch remains sidelined for now as well. The team also cut DuJuan Harris on Tuesday, leaving veteran Fred Jackson and newly-signed Bryce Brown as the only healthy halfbacks on the 53-man squad.
I’d still expect Brown and Jackson to see the majority of the backfield touches in Week 15, but if Lynch remains out of action for multiple weeks, Michael could become a more significant part of that rotation.