by Joe Tailgate on June 8, 2009
in NFL News
- Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has been impressive in adjusteing to his new role as starter in Kansas City. This weekend’s mandatory minicamp brought the team together for the first time this offseason. “We’re building chemistry, we’re building rapport and everybody’s working hard,” Cassel said. Kansas City coach Todd Haley refuses to name a starter, but it’s clear that it’s Cassel’s job. “He’s running the team,” said wide receiver Bobby Engram. “And I’m very impressed. He’s a very sharp guy. He’s watching film, he’s drawing up plays, he’s coaching everybody up. He’s shown early on that we’re going to be able to rely on him.”
- Colts WR Anthony Gonzalez did not practice Sunday due to an injured right leg he suffered Saturday, but head coach Jim Caldwell is not giving any details on the injury. Gonzalez stayed on the field after hurting his leg, but spent the remainder of Saturday’s practice stretching out. Caldwell said Gonzalez may return to the field Tuesday, June 9, or Wednesday, June 10.
- Brett Favre’s determination to play quarterback this season for the Minnesota Vikings prompted him to undergo arthroscopic surgery to repair his injured passing shoulder recently, according to two sources. However, Favre remains unable to make a commitment because subsequent throwing sessions indicate the shoulder is not yet 100 percent. While Favre has now clearly demonstrated his interest in coming out of retirement for a 19th season in the NFL, it seems equally obvious that he will not do so unless convinced he has recovered fully from the torn biceps tendon that undermined him last year with the New York Jets.
- Chiefs LB Mike Vrabel said he was “confused” when the Patriots traded him to Kansas City earlier this offseason. Vrabel skipped the team’s voluntary workout sessions but reported for a mandatory minicamp on Friday. “I’m here. I didn’t sign up. There’s a difference in this league in being a free agent and being traded,” Vrabel said, via the Kansas City Star. “I don’t know what to tell you. I got a call in March, and here I am.” Vrabel, a 12-year veteran who spent the past eight seasons in New England, clarified that he’s not upset with being a member of the Chiefs. “Don’t confuse that I’m not excited to be here, because I’m here and I’m happy,” he said. “I want to be here.”
- 49ers WR Michael Crabtree, the team’s top pick, was seen running for the first time during a session that lasted about 10 minutes. He is scheduled to continue his rehab from surgery in March on a stress fracture in his right foot. The club expects him to be ready to practice on the first day of training camp in late July.
- Saints RB Reggie Bush and WR Marques Colston fully participated in the final minicamp practice Sunday morning.
