tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52769774234991298792024-03-18T19:41:39.078-07:00'Eers in ProsThis blog is now defunct. For all new information, please visit <a href="http://wvupros.com">WVUPros.com</a>.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-77922448098092981572012-02-17T11:52:00.003-08:002012-04-17T06:54:27.715-07:00New Website!<center><script type="text/javascript"><!--<br />google_ad_client = "ca-pub-0849171181028175";<br />/* Bottom of Post */<br />google_ad_slot = "1657905734";<br />google_ad_width = 468;<br />google_ad_height = 60;<br />//--><br /></script><br /><script type="text/javascript"<br />src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"><br /></script></center><br />I will be shorty joining up with the better maintained outfit at <a href="http://wvupros.com/">WVUPros</a>. I'll begin by editing and moving some of the articles already contained on this site. Afterwards, I will continue writing for them, focusing on non-contemporary drafted/undrafted players. You should check out the WVUPros' <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/WVUPros/178903672204551">Facebook Page</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/wvupros">Twitter Account</a>.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-58395477659798732092010-11-12T12:38:00.000-08:002010-11-12T13:51:16.237-08:00O. Schmitt v. P. McAfeeThe week nine game Eagles vs. Colts featured two former WVU players: <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/owenschmitt/profile?id=SCH357488">Owen Schmitt</a> and <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/patmcafee/profile?id=MCA385008">Pat McAfee</a>. <br /><br />It was McAfee's first time punting after his <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/colts/2010-11-03-pat-mcafee_N.htm">one game suspension for his arrest</a>. He had five for an <a href="http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010110709/2010/REG9/colts@eagles#tab:analyze">average</a> of 36.8 yards and one inside the 20 yard line.<br /><br />Schmitt had just one catch on the day, for 12 yards. The catch is in the first play of the video below and shows how much he loves that leaping move.<br /><br />The second play in the video, a quick squib kick at the end of the second quarter, is usually a throw away play of no interest. But this one was a little unique to a WVU fan since it was kicked by McAfee and, after being muffed by another Eagles player, <a href="http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2010110709/2010/REG9/colts@eagles#tab:analyze/analyze-channels:cat-post-playbyplay">recovered by Schmitt</a>.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3JMUEXbkJJQ?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3JMUEXbkJJQ?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-41156108241050475352010-10-20T13:59:00.000-07:002010-10-20T14:20:38.434-07:00Pat McAfee ArrestedFormer WVU punter/kicker Pat McAfee was <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5706081">busted for public intoxication</a> early Wednesday morning in Indianapolis after going for a swim in a local canal. <a href="http://ftpcontent.worldnow.com/wthr/audio/mcafee911call.wav">Check out the 911 audio</a>. Local News video below. <br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CwNiMTvNY_c?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CwNiMTvNY_c?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-49371925957993630822010-10-13T13:56:00.000-07:002010-10-13T15:10:28.843-07:00Pacman Can't Catch a BreakIf you hadn't heard: Adam Jones was <a href="http://www.wlwt.com/r/25358020/detail.html">offended</a> by being wrongfully detained by the police after the Bengal's game last Sunday. The Cincinnati Police have since <a href="http://www.local12.com/news/local/story/Cincinnati-Police-Apologize-to-Adam-Pacman-Jones/_n7v5kqcm0i-p9AecoFAuw.cspx">apologized to the Bengal's Coach Marvin Lewis in addition to Pacman</a>.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-52091771496895914632010-10-11T20:55:00.000-07:002010-10-11T21:05:02.372-07:00More for the Highlight ReelOwen Schmitt only had <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/players/8940">2 catches for 19 yards this weekend</a> against the San Fransisco 49ers but made a nasty block on <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?playerId=5583">Shawntae Spencer</a> (a Pitt product).<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OUZ6Xzu5Yhw?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OUZ6Xzu5Yhw?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-88684459220852985962010-10-05T19:40:00.000-07:002010-10-07T06:48:34.527-07:00Update on Schmitt and the Rest of the TrioIs a blog still a blog without new content? Well, here we go...<br /><br />Owen "Beer Truck" Schmitt is overwhelmingly the most impressive of the big three that also includes Patrick White and Steve Slaton.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/owenschmitt/profile?id=SCH357488">Schmitt</a> was <a href="http://www.wvmetronews.com/sports.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=39385">picked up by the Eagles</a> from the Seattle Seahawks at the beginning of the season and has since accumulated more receiving yards than in his previous two seasons. So far he has 70 yards on 7 receptions. The most in one game was 3 receptions for 43 years against the Washington Redskins, which included yet another impressive leap reminiscent of the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhrtLVUWhc0">good old days</a>. That catch and one other can be seen in the video below.<br /><br /><div align="center"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cxeugLbWb1s?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cxeugLbWb1s?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div><br />Patrick White and Steve Slaton have, in comparison, have had less than ideal years.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/steveslaton/profile?id=SLA557176">Slaton</a>, after an impressive outing during his rookie season with the Houston Texans, has floundered since the beginning of last season. In the previous season, he suffered through fumble troubles, dropping the ball 7 times, while competing for snaps with other tailbacks. This year, still not at the starting job, Slaton has only had 17 touches but has a 5.5 yards per carry average and no fumbles. <br /><br />As if you didn't know, <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/patwhite/profile?id=WHI372113">White</a> was <a href="http://www.wvmetronews.com/sports.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=39351">cut</a> from the Miami Dolphins before the start of the season. Luckily, he's a talented guy and <a href="http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2010/10/02/scouting-notes-profar-looks-like-a-star/">took a contract from the Kansas City Royals</a>. Probably for the best, considering the <a href="http://www.sportsgrid.com/nfl/nfl-lockout-plan-roger-goodell/">looming NFL lockout</a> and the fact that he has the potential for a significantly higher paycheck in the <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/salaries/avgsalaries">MLB</a> than the <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/salaries/playerdetail.aspx?lname=white&player=5733&loc=interstitialskip">NFL</a>. Must be nice to have those kind of options.<br /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center width: 48px; height: 48px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3xtdaQLgz12feV12tYsgKcD3-ubXxSkJJyvCNmdmB9KSbjenj1mHR6DiWmHsr0ruBsejbYCaAvgNGVCd9Obh02D-kWhe7SsXg3b4TOOS32xzCXmradEMwq500hH-5SiRymNnU6v9TVIs/s200/dubvee.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525298252962417538" /><br /><p>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-66834972312406542882009-10-28T12:53:00.001-07:002012-04-17T06:55:21.590-07:002009 Undrafted Players<a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/morttyivy/gamelogs?id=IVY455791"><b>Mortty Ivy</b></a>: The Carolina Panthers picked up linbacker Mortty Ivy after the draft.<br /><br />He made some notable plays during training camp, including <a href="http://www.shelbystar.com/sports/barnidge-40898-position-panthers.html">interecepting a pass for a touchdown</a> and <a href="http://www.panthers.com/news/article-1/masons-minutes-the-dance-continues/0a9b3e1c-e274-4fbe-8a12-eca2dad9feae">seperating a pass from reciever</a>. He also suffered a <a href="http://www.heraldonline.com/sports/story/1538853.html">groin injury</a>.<br /><br />Ivy a couple of big plays during his four pre-season games, including a <a href="http://www.catscratchreader.com/2009/8/20/995810/panthers-vs-giants-1st-half-film">tackle for a loss</a> against the Giants and a <a href="http://www.panthers.com/news/article-1/Winless-preseason-ends-with-21-10-loss/9946c827-a93b-4174-867a-9ce62a8fa170">forced fumble</a> against the Steelers.<br /><br />At the end of the pre-season, Ivy was waived but <a href="http://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/2009/sep/07/bc-fbn-panthersch-_-sports-300-words/?sports&nfl">re-signed to the practice squad</a>.<br /><center><script type="text/javascript"><!--<br />google_ad_client = "ca-pub-0849171181028175";<br />/* Bottom of Post */<br />google_ad_slot = "1657905734";<br />google_ad_width = 468;<br />google_ad_height = 60;<br />//--><br /></script><br /><script type="text/javascript"<br />src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"><br /></script></center><br /><hr><br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/gregisdaner/gamelogs?id=ISD059326"><b>Greg Isdaner</b></a>: The Dallas Cowboys signed guard Greg Isdaner after the draft.<br /><br />Isdaner played with the <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/gregisdaner/gamelogs?id=ISD059326">third team</a> during training camp and was given <a href="http://www.dallascowboys.com/news/news.cfm?id=A9D3925D-A79D-0E47-B9FF98BF2EB31E1D&contentType=5">slim chances of making the team</a>. <br /><br />He played in three pre-season games, was <a href="http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/cowboys/52625337.html">hazed</a>, and eventually <a href="http://pennstate.scout.com/a.z?s=157&p=2&c=894957">waived from the team</a>.<br /><br /><hr><br /><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/ryanstanchek/gamelogs?id=STA379546"><b>Ryan Stanchek</b></a>: The Atlanta Falcons picked up guard Ryan Stanchek after the draft. He played in four pre-season games but was <a href="http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-falcons/falcons-release-seven-players-131179.html">released before the begining of the season</a>.<br /><br /><hr><br /><a href="http://www.msnsportsnet.com/profile.cfm?id=100817"><b>Dorrell Jalloh</b></a>: Jalloh was invited to the Tampa Bay <a href="http://www.bucem.com/2009/5/2/862472/tampa-bay-buccaneers-rookie-mini">Buccaneers' rookie mini-camp</a> after the draft. He was not signed and ended up in the Montreal <a href="http://www.montrealgazette.com/sports/McPherson+looks+like+heir+apparent+Calvillo/1675581/story.html">Alouettes' training camp</a>. The Alouttes <a href="http://www.montrealgazette.com/sports/cuts+transform+Alouettes+defence/1714598/story.html">cut him</a> before camp ended.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-40641370788939584712009-10-20T11:59:00.001-07:002009-10-28T14:26:23.495-07:00Back in Buisness? Pat White is.I've been out of the loop for a while but I think I'm going to get back into it now that football season has returned.<br /><br />For my transgressions, please accept the following videos:<br /><br />This is a quick clip of Pat White converting on third down at the end of the week 5 five Jets versus the Dolphins game.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/stN4Ngb2SxA&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/stN4Ngb2SxA&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />And if you haven't seen this, I don't know where you've been.<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1rp0MsvZcaE&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1rp0MsvZcaE&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="340"></embed></object>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-64569770610499310242009-04-25T09:03:00.000-07:002009-04-25T09:05:24.775-07:00Stancheck, Isdaner HopefulIsdaner, Stanchek Itching for Draft: Linemen Hope to Hear Names Called Sunday<br />By Stefanie Loh<br />The Dominion Post, April 24, 2009<br /><br />On Sunday morning, former WVU offensive lineman Greg Isdaner will wake up to embrace the first day of the rest of his life.<br /><br />Well, the first day of the next chapter of his life, anyway.<br /><br />After months of waiting in limbo, Isdaner expects to learn his fate Sunday, when the NFL draft comes to a conclusion.<br /><br />"This week has been the longest week of my life," Isdaner said. "I'm ready for Saturday and Sunday to come and just be over.<br /><br />"It's felt like I'm sitting around and waiting. I want to control my own destiny."<br /><br />Isdaner has spent the past few weeks at home, in Gladwyne, Pa., working out wherever he can find a weight room, and just hanging out with friends and family.<br /><br />According to Stephan Halpert, Isdaner's agent, the lineman is on the Philadelphia Eagles' top-30 list, and has received phone calls from every team in the league.<br /><br />On his visit to the Eagles' practice facility, Isdaner said, he met with head coach Andy Reid and line coach Juan Castillo.<br /><br />They just "talked about life," Isdaner said. "They don't really tell you anything."<br /><br />Still, the past couple of weeks have looked promising. Aside from the Eagles, the 6-foot-4, 315-pound guard said he's spoken to Kansas City, Jacksonville and Pittsburgh.<br /><br />"They just want to know where I'll be on draft day, that type of thing," Isdaner said. "I've heard the same thing from every team. I guess it's good to know they're worrying about getting my phone number."<br /><br />It's been the same story for former WVU offensive tackle Ryan Stanchek.<br /><br />Along with a couple dozen other NFL hopefuls, Stanchek recently worked out for his hometown Cincinnati Bengals.<br /><br />This week, he's been contacted by some teams checking to get his draftday phone number.<br /><br />"I've had a couple of teams do that," said Stanchek, who declined to name the teams. "I feel that you know a team's really interested when they call and say, 'What's your draft-day number?' "<br /><br />Both Isdaner and Stanchek said they feel pretty good about their position leading up to the draft, which starts at 4 p.m. Saturday (ESPN). Neither player expects to go on the first day, but Isdaner has been projected as high as the fourth round by some analysts, while Stanchek is hoping to get snapped up in the six or seventh round, or through free agency.<br /><br />"I feel confident I'll be drafted," Isdaner said, "As for when, I have absolutely no clue."<br /><br />Stanchek just wants a chance. <br />. . .<br />http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/yb/129021397Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-88914014944104030012009-04-25T08:52:00.000-07:002009-04-25T08:55:05.242-07:00Colts, Pats, 'Boys Look at McAfeeMcAfee gets NFL attention<br />By Colin Dunlap<br />The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, April 24, 2009<br /><br />Pat McAfee is long on leg strength -- and confidence.<br /><br />The West Virginia place-kicker and Plum native is on brink of being selected in this weekend's NFL draft. He's one of the top-rated kickers by most draft analysts and a projected late-rounder by some.<br /><br />So, when asked, McAfee never wavered, figuring if he doesn't get drafted, there's still a spot for him in the NFL.<br /><br />"I'm just staying even keel about all this," he said. "If I don't get drafted, hey, no big deal, man, I'll just have to go into a camp as a free agent and take someone's job from them. That is honestly the way I feel, so why not just say it like that?"<br /><br />McAfee, 6 feet, 228 pounds, handled all three components of the kicking game at West Virginia last season -- punting, field-goal kicking and kickoff duties. And he excelled at all portions of the triumvirate, which have the NFL scouts intrigued.<br /><br />A semifinalist for the Ray Guy Award -- presented to the nation's top punter -- he had a 44.7 yards per punt average, dropping 23 punts inside the 20 yard line. McAfee was also a semifinalist for the Lou Groza Award, given annually to the nation's top kicker after he went 17 for 20 in field goals, including 7 of 8 from beyond 40 yards, and also had eight touchbacks.<br /><br />Some teams like him as a kickoff man, some like him as a place-kicker, where others have raved to his Pittsburgh-based agent Eddie Edwards about his punting.<br /><br />The Indianapolis Colts extended one of their limited college prospect invitations -- rare for a kicker -- to McAfee a few weeks ago. He said the Colts, New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys have been in contact with him most.<br />. . .<br />http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09114/965134-144.stmGrifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-33798992680274779022009-04-24T06:17:00.000-07:002009-04-24T06:20:23.563-07:00Isdaner Takes Early ChanceIsdaner ready for uncertainty of NFL Draft<br />By Mike Casazza<br />The Daily Mail, April 23, 2009<br /><br />Morgantown, WV -- Like many college underclassmen do, Greg Isdaner quizzed with the NFL's draft advisory committee last season about his immediate future in the league.<br /><br />The response wasn't entirely encouraging.<br /><br />In fact, it was the kind of feedback that might convince a junior to return to school.<br /><br />"The exact wording was, 'You do not have the potential to be picked on the first day as of right now based on game tape,'" Isdaner said.<br /><br />Assured he wouldn't be picked in the first two rounds Saturday, Isdaner nevertheless signed with an agent and thereby forfeited his senior season at West Virginia.<br /><br />"It'd be different maybe if you thought you had a chance to go in the first round, but being a guard, I realized we generally don't go that high in the draft," the now-former left guard said. "From there, I asked if there was any consensus I'd go undrafted. There was none. There was none of that whatsoever."<br /><br />Following an admittedly average performance in the combine and some productive workouts and interviews, Isdaner expects to get the call Sunday afternoon as a late-round pick.<br /><br />"I'm pretty sure I'm going to get drafted," he said. "Then again, you don't really know. I'm confident I will. I think most people are confident I will, but the entire process gives you no indication. <br />. . .<br />Isdaner was invited to the NFL Combine, which helped legitimize his decision. His performance was satisfactory and in the middle of the offensive linemen in attendance. His worst result was the 40-yard dash, which he ran in 5.52 seconds, slower than all but three of the 45 linemen.<br /><br />"I hurt myself on my first 40 and that affected all the other times," he said. "But that's out of my control. Everything I've been in control of I've done well at and done it the right way. People might think I made a mistake, and I can see where they're coming from, but I certainly don't feel that way."<br /><br />NFL.com was even in its analysis, saying Isdaner is "agile in space but has average straight-line speed. ... Choppy in his lateral movement at times. Leans too far into his man when run blocking; can get ripped off or lose his balance."<br /><br />Positively, though, the same review said he "comes out of his stance with fair quickness, gets his hands active right away and is able to push his man down the line when coming off the ball. Strong angle technique, gets to his man's opposite shoulder and anchors to create a lane or will push his defender so he takes himself out of the play."<br /><br />ESPN ranks Isdaner as the No. 8 offensive guard in the draft, though at 6-foot-4 and 325 pounds, Isdaner has had conversations about playing tackle and even center.<br /><br />Sports Illustrated said Isdaner is a "workman like blocker with limited athleticism and upside potential. Unlikely to ever be a starter in the NFL, he could be an inexpensive back-up for a roster."<br /><br />"I didn't think I'd be going in the first round or on the first day, but after that, it's really a crap-shoot at the guard position," he said. "It's about what a team needs and if I get drafted, then obviously they saw something in me they liked and needed. I can't say growing up it was my dream to be in the NFL, because that's a pretty unrealistic dream, but it's something I think I can do and take advantage of if given the opportunity."<br />. . .<br />http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/WVUSports/200904230029Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-79492824182644745422009-04-22T16:39:00.000-07:002009-04-23T03:29:48.846-07:002001 Undrafted Players<b><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/wesours/profile?id=OUR428041">Wes Ours</a></b>: Before there was the <a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/search/label/owen%20schmitt">beer truck</a>, there was Wes Ours. At 250lbs in college and <a href="http://www.arenafan.com/news/?page=origcol&writer=9&article=2265">likely</a> over <a href="http://www.wvustats.com/football/player.php?team_id=308&person_id=834">300lbs</a> these days, he was a truck of some type. After a stint in the NFL, the former full back has matured into a linebacker/fullback in the AFL (<i>Are there fullbacks in the AFL? Or just halfbacks?</i>). Using his size to his advantage, Ours is usually used as a blocking back and enjoys it:<i><blockquote>"I'm a blocker," said Ours. "They brought me here to block and I don't mind blocking. Like I said, I honed up my skills and my best skill is blocking."</i></blockquote>Ours spent the 2001 to 2003 seasons <a href="http://www.kffl.com/player.php/839/nfl/news">hopping from one NFL team to another</a>. The colts initially picked him as an undrafted free agent. They cut him early in the season but he was quickly picked up by the Titans. The Titans, in turn, also cut him later in the season and the Colts resigned him. In early 2002, before the season, the Colts released him for a second time. The Steelers picked up Ours in 2003. He spent pre-season in training camp, almost went to <a href="http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_115733.html">NFL Europe</a>, but was eventually cut before the season began (<a href="http://www.post-gazette.com/steelers/20030823cuts0823p5.asp">not that he didn't try</a>). During his NFL career, outside of making blocks, Ours made one catch for three yards.<br /><br />Ours made the transition to the <a href="https://admin.xosn.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=3500&ATCLID=96012`">AFL</a> after being <a href="http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=2991875">picked up</a> by the Los Angeles Avengers in 2004. He was unproductive in that year, as he was on injured reserve. In 2005, he was picked up by the Philadelphia Soul and has been there since (though the 2009 AFL season has been canceled). Obviously, he's often used as a blocker but he is often given the ball in short yardage situations as well. Statistically, Ours had his best seasons in <a href="https://www.nmnathletics.com/afl/stats/PlayerIndividualStats.dbml?NMN_PLAYER_ID=21396&SPSID=19876&SPID=1560&QUERY_PLAYER_ID=OUR428041&DB_OEM_ID=3500&Q_SEASON=2006&STAT_TYPE=PASSING&ISWIDE=">2006</a> and <a href="https://www.nmnathletics.com/afl/stats/PlayerIndividualStats.dbml?NMN_PLAYER_ID=21396&SPSID=19876&SPID=1560&QUERY_PLAYER_ID=OUR428041&DB_OEM_ID=3500&Q_SEASON=2007&STAT_TYPE=PASSING&ISWIDE=">2007</a> when he gained 130 and 129 yards respectively. His statistics decreased in 2008 but he did help his team win the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wes_Ours">Arenabowl, the AFL championship</a>.<br /><br />Finally, Wes Ours didn't just get to play the game he loves, he gets to <a href="http://www.arenafootball.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=3500&ATCLID=1617167">coach it too</a>. <br /><br /><hr /><br /><a href="http://www.arenafootball.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=3500&ATCLID=96846&Q_SEASON=2005">Khori Ivy</a>: For the first three years of his career, he hopped from one practice squad to another as well as spent a season in NFL Europe. The Patriots originally signed Ivy in 2001 and he then moved to the Bengals the before the end of the season. In 2002, Ivy was transferred to NFL Europe's Barcelona Dragons. He caught 27 passes in Spain and gained 350 yards. In 2003, he was picked up by the Steeler. During preseason, Ivy took a tough hit from the Cowboy's Darren Woodson (<a href="http://www.kffl.com/player/7119/nfl/news">who was fined for the hit</a>). He suffered a concussion and was cut shortly afterward.<br /><br />Ivy then <a href="http://www.arenafootball.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=3500&ATCLID=96846&Q_SEASON=2005">moved to the AFL's Detroit Fury</a>. During the 2004 training camp he suffered a <a href="http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=2995595">season ending ACL tear</a>. In 2005, the <a href="http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3094878&l_id=&t_id=">Los Angeles Avengers picked</a> Ivy up as a free agent. That year he <a href="http://fantasyarena.usatoday.com/content/player.asp?sport=afl&id=416">gained 200 yards</a> on 20 receptions for 6 touchdowns. The following offseason, the Utah Blaze chose Ivy in their <a href="http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4188/is_20050927/ai_n15616587/">expansion draft</a>. However, he was <a href="http://www.arenafan.com/teams/?page=transactions&type=old&team=112">waived</a> in January 2006 and has not since played football professionally.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-8449086520735858592009-04-22T16:35:00.000-07:002009-04-22T16:39:11.462-07:00Vikings Look at WhiteSource: Vikes targeting 'slash' QB after workout<br />By Alex Marvez<br />FOX Sports, April 21, 2009<br /><br />A source told FOXSports.com that the Vikings conducted a private workout Tuesday with White. Minnesota has interest in White as a quarterback and wide receiver, the source said.<br />. . .<br />Sage Rosenfels, who was acquired in an offseason trade with Houston, and incumbent Tarvaris Jackson are set to compete for Minnesota's starting quarterback spot during the preseason.<br />. . .<br />http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9483198/Source:-Vikes-targeting-%27slash%27-QB-after-workoutGrifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-11401722027262278022009-04-20T08:52:00.000-07:002009-04-20T09:02:52.980-07:00Baseball a Backup for White?<a href="http://nflblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/04/west-virginia-qb-pat-white-may.html">Rick Gosselin</a> of the Dallas Morning News writes:<i><blockquote>He has been selected three times in Major League Baseball drafts -- twice by the Angels and once by the Reds -- but continually turned down the money to play college football.<br /><br />I asked him at the combine in March how difficult it was to say no to baseball.<br /><br />"I really haven't said no," White said. "I've been focusing on my football career."<br /><br />So baseball remains at least a back burner option for White (6-0, 197). </i></blockquote>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-44835754305437111582009-04-20T08:30:00.000-07:002009-04-20T08:32:18.611-07:00Lankster Visits SteelersLast three prospects visit Steelers<br />By Ed Bouchette<br />Pittsburgh Post Gazette, April 17, 2009<br /><br />The Steelers are entertaining their final three college prospects today before next weekend's draft. They are cornerback Ellis Lankster of West Virginia, cornerback Mike Mickens of Cincinnati and wide receiver Louis Murphy of Florida.<br />. . .<br />http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09107/963605-100.stmGrifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-29229891843625360602009-04-20T08:25:00.000-07:002009-04-20T08:30:41.782-07:00Myles Signed by CFL TeamRiders Filling Needs At Receiver<br />By Jamie Nye<br />CKOM, April 17, 2009<br /><br />If there is one position the Saskatchewan Roughriders appear to be lacking going into training camp is import receivers. Carl Berman, Gerran Walker, and Weston Dressler are the only players on the roster with CFL experience.<br /><br />Today the Riders hope they helped their depth as the fight for the two wide out positions will be a great story in training camp. Two more import receivers signed one year contracts with an option. West Virginia grad Brandon Myles and Southeastern Louisiana alum Byron Ross have been locked up by the Riders.<br />. . .<br />http://www.newstalk650.com/story/20090417/15136Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-84389179129642643042009-04-07T18:12:00.000-07:002009-04-07T18:31:44.422-07:00White Receives More Interest<a href="http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/04/07/buzz-building-around-versatile-qb-white/">NFL.com reports</a>:<br /><blockquote><i>The Philadelphia Eagles have scheduled a workout for White later this week, and he is expected to be put through quarterback and positional drills. White also has interviews scheduled with the Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots, who seem to be doing extensive homework on him.</i></blockquote> So, just to review, the following teams have shown specific interest in White:<ul><li><a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/2009/03/white-works-out-with-broncos.html">Broncos</a><br /><li><a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/2009/03/browns-and-ravens-looking-at-white.html">Browns</a><br /><li>Eagles<br /><li><a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/2009/03/white-in-new-england.html">Patriots</a><br /><li><a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/2009/03/browns-and-ravens-looking-at-white.html">Ravens</a><br /></ul>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-46691610362368450752009-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:002009-04-05T17:55:39.780-07:00Lankster Visits the BearsTwo more names surface for pre-draft visits<br />By Brad Biggs<br />The Chicago Sun Times, April 4, 2009<br /><br />Two more names have surfaced of players who visited Halas Hall last week, bringing to 13 the total number of names we have learned on the Bears' list of pre-draft visits.<br /><br />Scout.com's Adam Caplan reports that Texas Christian running back Aaron Brown and West Virginia cornerback Ellis Lankster were in town for a look. Both are considered potential late-round draft selections. Brown rushed for 2,616 yards for the Horned Frogs but is considered a little slim at 6-foot, 200 pounds. Lankster, 5-9, 191, did well for himself at the Senior Bowl and is believed to be a player the Bears have their eyes on. College scouting director Greg Gabriel attended the Mountaineers' pro day.<br />. . .<br />http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2009/04/two_more_names_surface_for_pre.htmlGrifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-19944366095823725172009-04-01T18:39:00.001-07:002009-04-01T18:54:22.870-07:00Alexander HighlightsI've been slacking lately. But here's a nice little Joe Alexander video to make up for it:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_tUlbRzCjDM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_tUlbRzCjDM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />And from <a href="http://www.msnsportsnet.com/page.cfm?story=14462&cat=ccBlog">MSN Sports</a>:<br /><blockquote><i>Joe Alexander scored a season-high 16 points in Milwaukee’s 107-78 win over New Jersey Monday night. Alexander has made 52 appearances this year and is averaging 4.6 points per game. Look for Alexander to see expanded action with Milwaukee now out of playoff contention. </i></Blockquote>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-27906279306696535412009-04-01T07:37:00.000-07:002009-04-01T07:41:29.223-07:00Cobourne Paranoid after SurgeryCobourne coy on surgery<br />'I have enemies out there'<br />By Herb Zurkowsky<br />The Gazette, March 30, 2009<br /><br />All Avon Cobourne will admit to at this point is undergoing surgery last Friday. And the procedure was performed in Montreal.<br /><br />Although the Alouettes' starting tailback won't disclose the nature of the procedure, he emphatically stated the surgery won't prevent him from being ready for training camp on June 7.<br /><br />"I have enemies out there," he told The Gazette late Friday. "Whatever it is, I haven't spoken to the right people to tell you. It was just something I needed to do, due to the wear and tear. And I wouldn't have done it unless it meant I'd be better off."<br /><br />Translation: Cobourne didn't have permission from Als management to say anything more. Indeed, he was surprised The Gazette learned of the surgery.<br />. . .<br />Despite playing only 12 regular-season games, Cobourne still rushed for a team-leading 950 yards and came third overall in the Canadian Football League. Had he not been hurt, Cobourne might have become the first player in league history to gain 1,000 yards in both rushing and receiving. He caught 66 passes for 616 yards.<br /><br />Cobourne's Cinderella story is now well known. He had to wait until his third pro season before getting the opportunity from new head coach Marc Trestman to play regularly in the offensive backfield. Prior to that, Cobourne was limited to special teams play. He was even forced to try out at linebacker in 2007 by an ill-advised coaching staff to justify his spot on the roster.<br />. . .<br />The job might be Cobourne's to lose at camp, but he won't go through it unchallenged. He's one of five tailbacks on the Als' roster, including Mike Imoh, Dahrran Diedrick along with Brandon Whitaker and Chris Jennings, both of whom practised with Montreal last season.<br /><br />"It's do or die every play and practice," Cobourne said. "Someone will have to be that much better than me, and I don't feel there's anyone out there that is."<br /><br />Over an 18-game season, Cobourne believes he's capable of rushing for 1,700 yards. At 5-foot-8 and 193 pounds, it might now be paramount for Cobourne, who has a year and an option remaining on his contract, to prove he can remain injury-free.<br />. . .<br />http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/Cobourne+surgery/1444098/story.htmlGrifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-78864282649683853372009-03-26T09:54:00.000-07:002009-03-26T09:59:58.617-07:00CIFL Team Picks Up Two AlumniWheeling Wildcats Add Two Former WVU Stars to Roster<br />Our Sports Central, March 26, 2009 <br /><br />Wheeling, WV -- Wheeling Wildcats Head Football Coach Shawn Liotta has announced the signing of two former West Virginia University stars <a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/search/label/Boo%20Mclee">Kevin "Boo" McLee</a> and <a href="http://eersinpros.blogspot.com/search/label/Eric%20Wicks">Eric Wicks</a> to contracts for the 2009 season. "We are committed to putting the best possible product on the field for our fans, and our goal is to compete for the 2009 CIFL Championship. These two outstanding players should immediately improve us on the defensive side of the football. Both players have a great football pedigree with some NFL experience and will be impact players for us this season," commented Coach Liotta.<br /><br />Eric Wicks was a standout defensive back at WVU from 2004-2007 finishing his collegiate career with 187 total tackles and 9 interceptions. At the beginning of the 2006 season, Eric Wicks and fellow-Wildcat teammate Kevin McLee were named to the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list. Following his outstanding 2006 season, Wicks was named to the All-Big East Team. In the preseason of 2007, Wicks was selected as the #7 safety in the nation by Lindy's, was a second-team All-American selection, and was a preseason first-team all-Big East selection. He was also selected on the Jim Thorpe Award watch list and Lott Trophy watch list. Wicks was named the Big East Defensive Player of the week , Defensive MVP, and Coaches Contribution Award during his tenure with the Mountaineers. Wicks signed with the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL in 2008 as an undrafted free agent.<br /><br />Kevin "Boo" McLee was a standout linebacker at WVU from 2002-2006 finishing his career with 247 tackles and 2 interceptions. McLee earned 2005 first-team All-Big East honors, ESPN All-Conference honors, and All-ECAC honors. In 2006 McLee finished the season on the Butkus Award list and participated in the 2007 Senior Bowl. During the Senior Bowl, McLee was projected as one of the top inside linebackers in the 2007 NFL Draft Class. In 2007 McLee was signed with the St. Louis Rams of the NFL, and most recently spent time with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League. <br />. . .<br />http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3795175Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-66753358516919850562009-03-24T17:18:00.000-07:002009-03-24T17:23:02.314-07:00Browns and Ravens looking at WhiteNFL Draft: AFC Rivals Pursuing Same QB<br />By Ed Thompson<br />Scout.com, March 23, 2009<br /> <br />The Baltimore Ravens have Joe Flacco. The Cleveland Browns have both Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson. Why, then, are both of these teams so interested in working out the same QB prospect? Ed Thompson has the answer.<br /><br />A source has told Scout.com that West Virginia quarterback Pat White will be working out for the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday prior to making an official visit with the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday and Friday this week.<br /><br />As Scout.com previously reported, White worked out for the New England Patriots, and he's also gone through a workout for the Denver Broncos.<br /><br />Some critics have questioned if White can play quarterback at the next level since he's only 6-foot tall. But at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last month, White addressed that issue by referencing his performance at the Senior Bowl. And he also noted that there are some offensive changes underway in the NFL that play to his strengths.<br /><br />"I think I showed that I could get the ball over those guys who are 6-foot-6 and 6-foot-7," he said. "I think the implementation of the Wildcat and other spread systems will definitely help me out because of the style of offense we ran at West Virginia."<br />. . .<br />http://atl.scout.com/a.z?s=122&p=2&c=849946Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-77602304513314363832009-03-22T12:51:00.001-07:002012-04-17T10:52:25.591-07:002002 Undrafted Players<a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/coreymcintyre/profile?id=MCI564794"><b>Corey McIntyre</b></a>: Despite missing out on the draft, McIntyre has made a living as a backup fullback and special teams trooper. He has a simple view on his occupation, as the <a href="http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/billsnfl/story/453117.html">Buffalo News reports</a>:<br /><i><blockquote>“That’s my love and pleasure, right there,” McIntyre said after finishing his first practice with the Bills Wednesday. “I love special teams. That’s where I’ve always earned my money.”<br /><br />What’s his motivation on kick coverage? Simple, said McIntyre:<br /><br />“My mentality is I have to feed my kids, so somebody has their food and I have to go get it,” he said. “I see the ball, go get the ball.”</i></blockquote><br />Eight years before he made it to the Bills, McIntyre was signed to the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad. The following year, in 2003, he was relocated to NFL Europa's Frankfurt Galaxy. There he helped lead his team to the <a href="http://westvirginia.scout.com/2/267198.html">World Bowl</a>. In the championship game McIntyre had 12 carries for 76 yards. Despite his efforts the Galaxy lost. After returning from Europe, the Eagles released McIntyre before the <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/transactions?team=phi&year=2003">beginning of the 2004 season</a>. <br /><br />Shortly after his release in Philadelphia, the Cleveland browns <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/transactions?team=cle&year=2004">picked him up</a>. In 2004, Cleveland <a href="http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=980DE7D91E31F935A3575AC0A9629C8B63">released</a> McIntyre.<br /><br />During the first weeks of the 2006 season, the New Orleans Saints lost two fullbacks to injury. They <a href="http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=127767">signed McIntyre</a> and second fullback to fill the holes. The Saints <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2675398">waived</a> McIntyre in November, before the end of the season, in order to make room on the roster. <br /><br />A day later, the <a href="http://www.kffl.com/player/7071/nfl/news">Atlanta Falcons snapped up</a> the former WVU fullback. McIntyre was kept on the inactive list for the rest of the season but was quickly made <a href="http://www.atlantafalcons.com/News/Articles/2008/04/11-20/McIntyre_signs_tender_offer.aspx">special teams captian</a> the following year. In 2008, the Falcons <A href="http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/story/451620.html">cut him at the end of training camp</a>.<br /><br />After spending a year with the Bills, McIntyre became an <a href="http://buf.scout.com/2/843987.html">unrestricted free agent</a> after the 2008 season but has already been resigned. It appears that his <a href="http://www.realfootball365.com/articles/bills/13766">blocking skills are appreciated</a> up north.<br /><br /><hr /><br /><b><a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/antwanlake/profile?id=LAK264111">Antwan Lake</b></a>: The Detroit Lions signed defensive end Antwan Lake after the draft. He was inactive for all but nine games and totaled only one tackle in his first year. He was waived before the beginning of the 2003 season.<br /><br />Lake was signed by the Atlanta Falcons in 2003 but did not play that year. Over 2004 and 2005, He served the backup function on a <a href="http://www.the advertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070906/SPORTS/709060328/1006">tenacious defensive line</a>. Lake had one of his best years in 2005 when he accumulated <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/antwanlake/careerstats?id=LAK264111">total of 16 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and caused a safety</a>. After the 2005 season, Lake had <a href="http://www.kffl.com/player/5691/nfl/news">surgery on his shoulder and became an unrestricted free agent</a>.<br /><br />In 2006, Lake was <a href="http://www.neworleansprofootball.com/082806moves.html">signed by the Saints</a>. Again, he played a backup role. Lakes best year with the Saints came in 2007 when he <a href="http://www.nfl.com/players/antwanlake/careerstats?id=LAK264111">totaled 18 tackles and one sack</a>. <br /><br />In 2008, Lake suffered a groin injury during the <a href="http://blog.nola.com/saintsbeat/2008/09/lake_injured.htm">first game</a>, which kept him on the <a href="http://www.kffl.com/player/5691/nfl/news">sidelines most of the season</a>. He was released by the Saints and became an <a href="http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/fa?&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnfl%2ffa">unrestricted free agent</a> after the 2008 season and has yet to be picked up.<br /><br /><hr /><br /><b><a href="http://www.columbusdestroyers.com/team/bio.php?id=119">Rick Sherrod</a></b>: Saftey Rick Sherrod spent the first two seasons after he graduated <a href="http://www.kffl.com/player/7117/NFL">bouncing around NFL teams</a> during the offseason. After going undrafted, he was originally picked up by the Buffalo in April 2003 but was quickly released. The same month he was signed by the Saints before being released in August. The following year, before the beginning of the season, was again signed and released from two different teams, this time the Cowboys and the Jaguars.<br /><br />After bouncing around the NFL, Sherrod <a href="http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3161292">joined</a> the Arena <a href="http://booksaboutwestvirginia.com/uncategorized/west-virginia-university-football-vault/">Football</a> League's Columbus Destroyers in May 2005. He was waived in January of 2006 and is no longer playing football.Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-54671067136369885932009-03-18T16:40:00.000-07:002009-03-20T11:20:39.363-07:00White Works Out With Broncos<a href="http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/03/18/white-works-out-for-patriots-broncos/">NFL.com reports</a> the Broncos are looking at White:<br /><blockquote><i>White worked out with the New England Patriots on Wednesday, spending the majority of the workout on wide receiver drills, and worked out with the Denver Broncos on Wednesday, according to league sources.</i></blockquote><br />They also insinuate that the Steelers are one of two teams willing to give him a chance at QB:<br /><blockquote><i>White has been on the record as saying he prefers to remain at quarterback, but estimated that only two of 32 teams are giving him serious consideration as a signal-caller. It’s a good bet White — who is not refusing to switch positions — had a clear understanding of those two teams are. In a live chat with White two weeks ago, he said if there was one team he was hoping would take him, it was the Pittsburgh Steelers.</i></blockquote><br />Make of it what you will.<br /><br />UPDATE: Ed Thompson of Scout.com believes Denver could be doing a little <a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9356982/7-Points:-Action-on-Garcia-will-pick-up-soon">CYA with the Cutler fiasco going on</a>:<br /><i><blockquote>I honestly think the Broncos are preparing for the worst—a messy-divorce with their young, talented quarterback. And with the various trade scenarios that are being rumored, one common theme is evident: The Denver Broncos won't have a quarterback as talented as Jay Cutler at the top of their depth chart when the dust settles.<br /><br />So the interest in Pat White as a potential quarterback candidate for the team is a viable one, providing the team with a versatile athlete who could compete with Chris Simms and whatever other quarterback ends up in Denver prior to draft weekend.</blockquote></i>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276977423499129879.post-2330186889809070912009-03-17T21:13:00.000-07:002009-03-25T17:01:35.168-07:00White in New EnglandPat White Working Out For Patriots<br />By Ed Thompson<br />Scout.com, March 16, 2009<br /><br />Scout.com Senior NFL Analyst Ed Thompson has learned that West Virginia QB Pat White is working out for the New England Patriots this week.<br /><br />A source has told Scout.com that West Virginia quarterback Pat White will be working out for the New England Patriots on Tuesday, March 17.<br /><br />After watching White's speed and nifty moves as a runner, some NFL scouts were projecting White as a potential wide receiver who could also provide plenty of excitement as a return specialist. He rushed for 947 yards, an average of more than 81 yards per contest and ran the ball into the end zone eight times.<br /><br />But the Mountaineers' signal-caller has made it clear that he could also have a successful career as an NFL quarterback. <br />. . .<br />While Tom Brady is expected to be ready to resume his role as the Patriots' starter this season, his former back-up, Matt Cassel will be leading the Kansas City Chiefs offense this year. Cassel was traded to Kansas City after initially being designated as the team's franchise player, preventing him from hitting the market as an unrestricted free agent. <br /><br />Currently slotted into the No. 2 role, by default, is second-year player Kevin O'Connell, a 6-foot-5, 225-pound passer out of San Diego State.<br /><br />With White obviously on New England's radar, it appears that the Patriots are at least considering using one of their higher draft picks to give O'Connell a legitimate training camp battle rather than allowing him to automatically slide into the back-up role. <br />. . .<br />http://jac.scout.com/a.z?s=119&p=2&c=847842<br /><br /><b>UPDATE (3/20/09) -</b> The <a href="http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/2009/03/report_pats_wor.html">Boston Globe reports</a>:<br /><blockquote><i>According to league sources, White worked out as both a wide receiver and a quarterback for the Patriots, who might be viewing him as a versatile player that they could use in their own version of the Wildcat, which grew in popularity around the NFL after the Miami Dolphins used it to score a 38-13 victory over the Patriots on Sept. 21.</i></blockquote><br /><b>UPDATE (3/25/09)</b> - <a href="">Mel Kiper adds</a>: <br /><blockquote>Pat White, maybe New England. You keep hearing New England,” Kiper said. ”They have some interest in Pat White for obvious reasons. They got torched by the Wildcat. Maybe now they want to return the favor and get the ultimate quarterback who can do some damage in that regard. So, if New England is in fact one of those teams who is going to look at him, the late second round isn’t out of the realm of possibility for him.</blockquote>Grifferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01606705947713997150noreply@blogger.com0