'Eers in Pros

O. Schmitt v. P. McAfee

2010-11-12T12:38:00.000-08:00

The week nine game Eagles vs. Colts featured two former WVU players: Owen Schmitt and Pat McAfee.

It was McAfee's first time punting after his one game suspension for his arrest. He had five for an average of 36.8 yards and one inside the 20 yard line.

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.

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, recovered by Schmitt.

Pat McAfee Arrested

2010-10-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

Former WVU punter/kicker Pat McAfee was busted for public intoxication early Wednesday morning in Indianapolis after going for a swim in a local canal. Check out the 911 audio. Local News video below.

Pacman Can't Catch a Break

2010-10-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

If you hadn't heard: Adam Jones was offended by being wrongfully detained by the police after the Bengal's game last Sunday. The Cincinnati Police have since apologized to the Bengal's Coach Marvin Lewis in addition to Pacman.

More for the Highlight Reel

2010-10-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

Owen Schmitt only had 2 catches for 19 yards this weekend against the San Fransisco 49ers but made a nasty block on Shawntae Spencer (a Pitt product).

Update on Schmitt and the Rest of the Trio

2010-10-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

Is a blog still a blog without new content? Well, here we go...

Owen "Beer Truck" Schmitt is overwhelmingly the most impressive of the big three that also includes Patrick White and Steve Slaton.

Schmitt was picked up by the Eagles 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 good old days. That catch and one other can be seen in the video below.

Patrick White and Steve Slaton have, in comparison, have had less than ideal years.

Slaton, 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.

As if you didn't know, White was cut from the Miami Dolphins before the start of the season. Luckily, he's a talented guy and took a contract from the Kansas City Royals. Probably for the best, considering the looming NFL lockout and the fact that he has the potential for a significantly higher paycheck in the MLB than the NFL. Must be nice to have those kind of options.

2009 Undrafted Players

2009-10-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

Mortty Ivy: The Carolina Panthers picked up linbacker Mortty Ivy after the draft.

He made some notable plays during training camp, including interecepting a pass for a touchdown and seperating a pass from reciever. He also suffered a groin injury.

Ivy a couple of big plays during his four pre-season games, including a tackle for a loss against the Giants and a forced fumble against the Steelers.

At the end of the pre-season, Ivy was waived but re-signed to the practice squad.

Greg Isdaner: The Dallas Cowboys signed guard Greg Isdaner after the draft.

Isdaner played with the third team during training camp and was given slim chances of making the team.

He played in three pre-season games, was hazed, and eventually waived from the team.

Ryan Stanchek: The Atlanta Falcons picked up guard Ryan Stanchek after the draft. He played in four pre-season games but was released before the begining of the season.

Dorrell Jalloh: Jalloh was invited to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' rookie mini-camp after the draft. He was not signed and ended up in the Montreal Alouettes' training camp. The Alouttes cut him before camp ended.

Back in Buisness? Pat White is.

2009-10-20T11:59:00.001-07:00

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.

For my transgressions, please accept the following videos:

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.

And if you haven't seen this, I don't know where you've been.

Stancheck, Isdaner Hopeful

2009-04-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

Isdaner, Stanchek Itching for Draft: Linemen Hope to Hear Names Called Sunday
By Stefanie Loh
The Dominion Post, April 24, 2009

On Sunday morning, former WVU offensive lineman Greg Isdaner will wake up to embrace the first day of the rest of his life.

Well, the first day of the next chapter of his life, anyway.

After months of waiting in limbo, Isdaner expects to learn his fate Sunday, when the NFL draft comes to a conclusion.

"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.

"It's felt like I'm sitting around and waiting. I want to control my own destiny."

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.

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.

On his visit to the Eagles' practice facility, Isdaner said, he met with head coach Andy Reid and line coach Juan Castillo.

They just "talked about life," Isdaner said. "They don't really tell you anything."

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.

"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."

It's been the same story for former WVU offensive tackle Ryan Stanchek.

Along with a couple dozen other NFL hopefuls, Stanchek recently worked out for his hometown Cincinnati Bengals.

This week, he's been contacted by some teams checking to get his draftday phone number.

"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?' "

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.

"I feel confident I'll be drafted," Isdaner said, "As for when, I have absolutely no clue."

Stanchek just wants a chance.
. . .
http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/yb/129021397

Colts, Pats, 'Boys Look at McAfee

2009-04-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

McAfee gets NFL attention
By Colin Dunlap
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, April 24, 2009

Pat McAfee is long on leg strength -- and confidence.

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.

So, when asked, McAfee never wavered, figuring if he doesn't get drafted, there's still a spot for him in the NFL.

"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?"

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.

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.

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.

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.
. . .
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09114/965134-144.stm

Isdaner Takes Early Chance

2009-04-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

Isdaner ready for uncertainty of NFL Draft
By Mike Casazza
The Daily Mail, April 23, 2009

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.

The response wasn't entirely encouraging.

In fact, it was the kind of feedback that might convince a junior to return to school.

"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.

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.

"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."

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.

"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.
. . .
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.

"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."

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."

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."

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.

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."

"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."
. . .
http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/WVUSports/200904230029

2001 Undrafted Players

2009-04-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Wes Ours: Before there was the beer truck, there was Wes Ours. At 250lbs in college and likely over 300lbs 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 (Are there fullbacks in the AFL? Or just halfbacks?). Using his size to his advantage, Ours is usually used as a blocking back and enjoys it:

"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."

Ours spent the 2001 to 2003 seasons hopping from one NFL team to another. 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 NFL Europe, but was eventually cut before the season began (not that he didn't try). During his NFL career, outside of making blocks, Ours made one catch for three yards.

Ours made the transition to the AFL after being picked up 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 2006 and 2007 when he gained 130 and 129 yards respectively. His statistics decreased in 2008 but he did help his team win the Arenabowl, the AFL championship.

Finally, Wes Ours didn't just get to play the game he loves, he gets to coach it too.

Khori Ivy: 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 (who was fined for the hit). He suffered a concussion and was cut shortly afterward.

Ivy then moved to the AFL's Detroit Fury. During the 2004 training camp he suffered a season ending ACL tear. In 2005, the Los Angeles Avengers picked Ivy up as a free agent. That year he gained 200 yards on 20 receptions for 6 touchdowns. The following offseason, the Utah Blaze chose Ivy in their expansion draft. However, he was waived in January 2006 and has not since played football professionally.

Vikings Look at White

2009-04-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

Source: Vikes targeting 'slash' QB after workout
By Alex Marvez
FOX Sports, April 21, 2009

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.
. . .
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.
. . .
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/9483198/Source:-Vikes-targeting-%27slash%27-QB-after-workout

Baseball a Backup for White?

2009-04-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News writes:

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.

I asked him at the combine in March how difficult it was to say no to baseball.

"I really haven't said no," White said. "I've been focusing on my football career."

So baseball remains at least a back burner option for White (6-0, 197).

Lankster Visits Steelers

2009-04-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Last three prospects visit Steelers
By Ed Bouchette
Pittsburgh Post Gazette, April 17, 2009

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.
. . .
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09107/963605-100.stm

Myles Signed by CFL Team

2009-04-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

Riders Filling Needs At Receiver
By Jamie Nye
CKOM, April 17, 2009

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.

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.
. . .
http://www.newstalk650.com/story/20090417/15136

White Receives More Interest

2009-04-07T18:12:00.000-07:00

NFL.com reports:

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.

So, just to review, the following teams have shown specific interest in White:

Lankster Visits the Bears

2009-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Two more names surface for pre-draft visits
By Brad Biggs
The Chicago Sun Times, April 4, 2009

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.

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.
. . .
http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2009/04/two_more_names_surface_for_pre.html

Alexander Highlights

2009-04-01T18:39:00.001-07:00

I've been slacking lately. But here's a nice little Joe Alexander video to make up for it:

And from MSN Sports:

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.

Cobourne Paranoid after Surgery

2009-04-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

Cobourne coy on surgery
'I have enemies out there'
By Herb Zurkowsky
The Gazette, March 30, 2009

All Avon Cobourne will admit to at this point is undergoing surgery last Friday. And the procedure was performed in Montreal.

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.

"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."

Translation: Cobourne didn't have permission from Als management to say anything more. Indeed, he was surprised The Gazette learned of the surgery.
. . .
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.

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.
. . .
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.

"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."

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.
. . .
http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/Cobourne+surgery/1444098/story.html

CIFL Team Picks Up Two Alumni

2009-03-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

Wheeling Wildcats Add Two Former WVU Stars to Roster
Our Sports Central, March 26, 2009

Wheeling, WV -- Wheeling Wildcats Head Football Coach Shawn Liotta has announced the signing of two former West Virginia University stars Kevin "Boo" McLee and Eric Wicks 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.

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.

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.
. . .
http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3795175

Browns and Ravens looking at White

2009-03-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

NFL Draft: AFC Rivals Pursuing Same QB
By Ed Thompson
Scout.com, March 23, 2009

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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."
. . .
http://atl.scout.com/a.z?s=122&p=2&c=849946

2002 Undrafted Players

2009-03-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Corey McIntyre: 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 Buffalo News reports:

“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.”

What’s his motivation on kick coverage? Simple, said McIntyre:

“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.”

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 World Bowl. 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 beginning of the 2004 season.

Shortly after his release in Philadelphia, the Cleveland browns picked him up. In 2004, Cleveland released McIntyre.

During the first weeks of the 2006 season, the New Orleans Saints lost two fullbacks to injury. They signed McIntyre and second fullback to fill the holes. The Saints waived McIntyre in November, before the end of the season, in order to make room on the roster.

A day later, the Atlanta Falcons snapped up the former WVU fullback. McIntyre was kept on the inactive list for the rest of the season but was quickly made special teams captian the following year. In 2008, the Falcons cut him at the end of training camp.

After spending a year with the Bills, McIntyre became an unrestricted free agent after the 2008 season but has already been resigned. It appears that his blocking skills are appreciated up north.

Antwan Lake: 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.

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 tenacious defensive line. Lake had one of his best years in 2005 when he accumulated total of 16 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and caused a safety. After the 2005 season, Lake had surgery on his shoulder and became an unrestricted free agent.

In 2006, Lake was signed by the Saints. Again, he played a backup role. Lakes best year with the Saints came in 2007 when he totaled 18 tackles and one sack.

In 2008, Lake suffered a groin injury during the first game, which kept him on the sidelines most of the season. He was released by the Saints and became an unrestricted free agent after the 2008 season and has yet to be picked up.

Rick Sherrod: Saftey Rick Sherrod spent the first two seasons after he graduated bouncing around NFL teams 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.

After bouncing around the NFL, Sherrod joined the Arena Football League's Columbus Destroyers in May 2005. He was waived in January of 2006 and is no longer playing football.

White Works Out With Broncos

2009-03-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

NFL.com reports the Broncos are looking at White:

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.

They also insinuate that the Steelers are one of two teams willing to give him a chance at QB:

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.

Make of it what you will.

UPDATE: Ed Thompson of Scout.com believes Denver could be doing a little CYA with the Cutler fiasco going on:
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.

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.

White in New England

2009-03-17T21:13:00.000-07:00

Pat White Working Out For Patriots
By Ed Thompson
Scout.com, March 16, 2009

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.

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.

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.

But the Mountaineers' signal-caller has made it clear that he could also have a successful career as an NFL quarterback.
. . .
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.

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.

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.
. . .
http://jac.scout.com/a.z?s=119&p=2&c=847842

UPDATE (3/20/09) - The Boston Globe reports:

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.

UPDATE (3/25/09) - Mel Kiper adds:

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.

Pro-day in Mo-town II

2009-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a rundown on the other players at pro day:

- Here's a video interview with linebacker Mortty Ivy. NFL.com reports:

...Ivy (6-1 5/8 and 239 pounds) put up 40 times of 4.84 and 4.78. He had a 28 1/2-inch vertical and a 9-foot, 2-inch broad jump with times of 4.44 in the short shuttle and 7.15 in the three-cone drill. He put up 17 reps on the bench press at 225 pounds.

- Dorrell Jalloh, wide receiver, caught passes from Pat White and ran a 4.55 second 40. The DA reported:

He also caught passes from White in all of his quarterback drills, including an over-the-shoulder grab on a deep pass that drew an loud applause from those in attendance.

- Pat McAfee, the punter/kicker, had an impressing effort. The DA reported:

McAfee kicked and punted for scouts and was especially impressive as most of his kickoffs traveled deep into the end zone.

- Interestingly, a linebacker who graduated two years ago, Marc Margo, also participated in drills for scouts.

- Ellis Lankster, a corner back, ran the fastest 40 time at 4.3 seconds.

- Backup linebacker Jim Lewis was impressive in his drills and ran a 4.5 second 40.

- Lineman Greg Isdaner didn't try to improve on his bench press but did participate in other drills. NFL.com reports:

...Isdaner (6-3 5/8 and 324 pounds) had 40 times of 5.29 and 5.28 seconds. He had a 25 1/2-inch vertical leap and an 8-foot, 6-inch broad jump, with times of 4.75 in the short shuttle and 7.73 in the three-cone drill.

- Lineman Ryan Stancheck tried to wow the scouts too. NFL.com reports:

...Stanchek (6-3 3/8 and 298 pounds) turned in times of 5.32 and 5.31 in the 40. He had a 27 1/2-inch vertical and an 8-foot, 7-inch broad jump with a 4.74 short shuttle and a 7.65 three-cone drill. He put up 29 reps on the bench press.

- Linebacker John Holmes, long snapper Adam Hughes, and lineman Stephen Maw also participated in drills.

Here's a general pro day video.

Pro-day in Mo-town

2009-03-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

Pro hopefuls and scouts gathered today at the Mountaineers' indoor field. WVU players attracted scouts from 25 pro-teams and at least one head coach, Mike Tomlin. So far as I can find, Pat White has had the only mentions in the news. Except for a quick mention of Pat McAfee. I'll update on the versitle kicker and others as information becomes available.

Back to White. By all accounts, White appears to have continued to impress. The most interesting development would be a local TV station saying White was not asked to perform wide receiver drills. However, NFL.com and a couple others said Coach Stewart was the one to lay down those rules. Rule or not, most left after White was finished throwing.

Also, if you're interested, here's a Q&A session with White.

Update (3/13/09): Mike Mayock of the NFL Network reports (video) that many scouts were disappointed in the no wideout drill rule. He also suspects that if White does not show a willingness to play positions outside of QB, it will hurt his stock.

Video interview with Pat White

Mel Kiper on QBs

2009-03-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

Some White Reading

2009-03-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

"Sources from around the league have told the Examiner that the Bears and Panthers have been interested, and his stock definitely rose at the Combine. For his efforts, he was named co-winner along with Ohio State WR Brian Robiske of the General Motors Top Combine Performer."
-- Matt Pawlikowski, The Examiner

""It's a run-pass formation," White said [of the wildcat formation]. "The defense could be running one way and the ball's shooting out the other. Or sometimes you can sneak someone deep on a pass. I think I can do both of those. I don't know if that offense is tailored to me, but it does give me extra benefits.""
-- Rick Gosselin, The Sun Sentinel

2003 Undrafted Players

2009-03-06T19:57:00.000-08:00

Angel Estrada: In 2004, the Ohio Valley Greyhounds of the National Indoor Football League (NIFL) gave Estrada his first professional start. Estrada dominated the league in defense while playing both sides of the ball and special teams. On the defensive side, he lead the league with 14 interceptions as well as recording 65 tackles and 21 pass break ups. For his efforts the team gave him the Rookie of the Year Award, the conference awarded him as the Defensive MVP and the league chose him as an All-Star.

In 2005 the AFL's Nashville Kats signed Estrada, where also played both sides of the ball. Before the regular season was over, Estrada was released.

The New York Dragons picked up Estrada for the remainder of the 2005. He played 4 games and caught an interception despite an injury to his hamstring. In 2006, he stayed with the Dragons and racked up 40 tackles, one interception and two forced fumbles while playing in 11 games.

The Grand Rapids Rampage contracted Estrada before the beginning of the 2007 season. He suffered an injury, however still played five games. Despite the few amount of games, he still racked up 26 tackles.

Estrada returned to the Dragons for the 2008 season. He preformed again though injury, recording 16.5 tackles.

As far as I can guess, Estrada is still with the Dragons but it's hard to tell for sure since the AFL season has been canceled due to the recession.

Lewis Daniels: The cornerback also began his pro career with the Ohio Valley Greyhounds in 2004. He had 28.5 tackles and 3 sacks his first season. They re-signed Daniels in 2005, a year where he totaled 61 tackles and 5 interceptions. In 2006 he totaled 39 tackles and had 3 interceptions. Daniels was not included in team statistics in 2007 and I was not able to find any other information on him.

Kenny Sandor: The offensive lineman was also with Greyhounds, but started in his draft year, 2003. He received a few starts in his first year after several injuries to starting players. Sandor received NIFL All-Star status for his help giving the team's running back, Rayshawn Askew, the rushing title. He was re-signed along with Lewis Daniels in 2005. Like Daniels, Sandor was not included in team satistics in 2006 and I could not find any other record of him playing anywhere else.

Jason Davis: The Texans took Davis, a defensive tackle, after the draft. He spent his fist three years (2003-2005) on the practice squad before being sent to play with NFL Europa's Berlin Thunder in 2006.

After a season in Europe, Davis was waived from the Texans. For the rest of 2006 he jumped around the NFL, spending time with both the Cowboys and Colts, before turning toward the AFL.

The Philadelphia soul signed Davis in 2007. He only produced one assisted tackle that year.

It looks like the following year the New York Dragons signed Davis. Beyond the one article, the books on him start to fade.

David Upchurch: The Steelers picked up defensive lineman Upchurch after he went undrafted in 2003. He spent all of 2003 and two weeks of 2004 on the practice squad before he was released.

After being released from the Steelers, Upchurch was signed with AFL's Orlando Predators but was given NFL waiver. He spent less than a month with the Ravens practice squad before being signed by the Chargers.

In 2005, Upchurch went back to the Predators. He had 7 tackles on the year after being hampered by an injury. Like Jason Davis, Upchurch's record fades. I'll update them both if I find more later on.

Pros vs. Joes

2009-03-02T09:33:00.001-08:00

Adam Jones will be making his second TV appearance by starring in Spike's Pros vs. Joes.

No word yet on if he'll receive an NFL contract but you can't blame the guy for trying to make ends meet.

Every dog has his day

2009-02-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

Seahawks fullback Leonard Weaver will likely be lost to free agency (though they will attempt to keep him). Did he go to WVU? No. Should you care? Yes. Guess who his backup is?

UPDATE (3/21/09): If you haven't figured it out already, that dog is Owen Schmitt. And it appears he will indeed have his day.

Isdaner and Ivy at the Combine

2009-02-26T17:49:00.000-08:00

Neither Greg Isdaner nor Mortty Ivy helped themselves at the combine.

Isdaner might be regretting coming out of college a year early. He ran a 40 in 5.36 seconds and had 24 reps benching 225lbs, both things he could have worked on by using up his eligibility. In addition, he had the smallest hands and reach out of all the outside guards. Still a big guy, though, at 325lbs.

Ivy wasn't looking too hot either. He had a slow 4.9 in the 40 and only 18 reps on the bench press at 225lbs.

Scout.com believes Ivy dropped from the 18th OLB in the draft to the 22nd. Isdaner is thought to have dropped from 7th in the draft to 11th.

They still have pro-day though.

White at the Combine

2009-02-23T16:08:00.000-08:00

It appears that Pat White's stock as a quarterback has risen over the past few months. If his performance and the Senior Bowl didn't do it, it was the combine that did. Looking around at other blogs and articles, a list of potential homes for White might include San Francisco, Miami, or Atlanta as well as other teams intent on running the wildcat offense. He likes that the wildcat improves his chances but didn't refuse other positions at the combine, so it may be difficult to make a good pick at where he'll go.

Some Stats (rank is among QBs):

40 Yard Dash: 4.55 seconds (1st)
Vertical Jump: 35" (1st)
Broad Jump: 9'9" (2nd)
3 Cone Drill: 7.06 (6th)
20 yard Shuttle: 4.42 (6th)

Most importantly, his passing was impressive.

Mortty Ivy and Greg Isdaner were also invited to the combine and I'll have an update on them when information is available.

Alexander Proves Game

2009-02-23T15:48:00.000-08:00

Alexander provides energy boost
By Charles F. Gardner
The Journal Sentinel, Posted: Feb. 23, 2009

Rookie forward Joe Alexander has experienced a bumpy ride in his rookie season with the Milwaukee Bucks.

He has watched from the bench while second-round pick Luc Richard Mbah a Moute has played extensively and at times in a starting role.

But the 6-foot-8 Alexander took advantage of a chance for some additional playing time Sunday, and he helped the Bucks grab a 120-117 victory over the Denver Nuggets at the Bradley Center.

Alexander played 10 consecutive minutes in the second quarter and brought some needed energy to the Bucks' equation.

He finished with eight points on 3-of-8 shooting, two rebounds and one blocked shot in 15 minutes.

"I thought he did a nice job," coach Scott Skiles said. "I thought he changed the energy a little bit when he came in the game in the first half. Unfortunately, he's in a position where he doesn't have a vault of minutes he can rely on.

"He plays, and then he doesn't play for a while, and so it's hard for him to build on anything. I understand that. He's in a tough spot."

Alexander had played just 15 minutes in the first three games since the National Basketball Association all-star break. He did not play in the Bucks' victory over Detroit on Tuesday, and had four points in 6 minutes against Chicago the next night.

He played 9 minutes but failed to score in the Bucks' loss to Cleveland on Friday.

Against Denver, Alexander could match up against the lanky Chris Andersen and forward Linas Kleiza in a high-powered offensive game.

"After he (Skiles) took me out the first time, he put me back in," Alexander said. "That means he liked what I did initially. That's all I'm concerned about, really, that I'm doing what they want me to do."

Alexander was the eighth overall pick in the 2008 draft but he missed much of training camp with an injury and didn't find a spot in the regular rotation.
. . .
http://www.jsonline.com/sports/bucks/40069227.html

2004 Undrafted Players

2009-02-15T10:56:00.000-08:00

Lance Frazier: As an undrafted free agent in 2004, Frazier was initially picked up be the Baltimore Ravens but was quickly waived before the beginning of the season. The Cowboys picked him up and gave him playing time.

During the 2004 season, Frazier played on both defense and special teams. On special teams he returned punts 24 times and had a 9.9 yardd return average. He also fumbled twice, both in a loss to the Eagles, garnering the ire of then head coach Bill Parcels. On defense, he had 34 solo tackles and 2 interceptions.

In 2005, the Cowboys released Frazier shortly after he sprained his ankle. Other than a short 2006 training camp stint with the Seahawks, he has not returned to the NFL.

After being cut from the Cowboys in 2005, Frazier began his AFL career. He was signed by the Tampa Bay Storm, however I can't find anything on his production there. In 2006 he was traded to the New Orleans Voodoo, an expansion team at the time, but was put onto the exempt roster because he was offered a contract in the CFL. As far as his AFL status is concerned, his contract was traded to the Philadelphia Soul but he is still on their exempt roster.

In 2006, when the AFL's Voodoo exempted Frazier, he began his CFL career. He was signed by the Saskatchewan Roughriders where he has spent the past three years. He only played one game in 2006, possibly because of his Seahawk's training camp stint. In 2007 and 2008 he appeared to progress. In 2008, he led the team with 5 interceptions. In 2009, the Roughriders resigned him before he entered free agency.

First Ring for an Alum

2009-02-12T09:38:00.000-08:00

CORRECTION (3/3/09): The wording is a little confusing on this. It means that this was Ryan Mundy's first Super Bowl ring, not the first Mountaineer to receive a Super Bowl ring. That title (as far as I can tell at the moment) goes to Jeff Hostetler. Hostetler was drafted to the Giants in 1984 (I'm not that far back yet). In 1991 he started for an injured Phil Simms in Super Bowl XXV and passed for 222 yards and 1 touchdown in a win over the Buffalo Bills. So, despite the story/post below, Jeff Hostetler won the first ring for an alum.

Ryan Mundy Will Get a Super Bowl Ring
By Scott Grayson

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are still basking in the glory of their big win over the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl 43.

It was the sixth Super Bowl title for that franchise, but the first for a former Mountaineer.

Former Mountaineer defensive back Ryan Mundy was at the Backyard Brawl on Monday night. He was a sixth round draft pick last year by the Steelers.
. . .
http://www.wboy.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=51874&catid=3

In addition, Mundy was resigned to the practice squad.

2005 Undrafted Players

2009-02-01T11:22:00.000-08:00

Kay Jay Harris: Harris, a running back, was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2005 and spent his first season on the practice squad.

Nick Saban, the Miami head coach, had high expectations for Harris's second season, saying, "We were really pleased with him last year in preseason. We were pleased with him all year on the practice squad. We really never had an opportunity to move him up...We're kind of anxious to see how he responds through camp and through this exhibition season." He was never given the chance to prove himself in Miami, Harris spent the first month of the season on the practice squad before he was waived.

Two months into the season, Harris was picked up by the Rams. Harris found some playing time in his partial season with St. Louis. His stats show nothing impressive: 3 rushes for 9 yards; 4 kick returns for 76 yards; and 1 reception for ten yards. Harris was released before the beginning of the 2007 season.

During the 2007 season, Harris was considered by the Panthers but was ultimately signed by the Giants practice squad just before their Super Bowl win. He practiced with the Giants during the offseason and was optimistic about his odds. However, before the begining of the 2008 season, he was released and not resigned by another team.

Schmitt Looks Ahead, Behind

2009-02-01T10:44:00.000-08:00

WCHS, Radio 58

Former West Virginia University fullback Owen Schmitt returned to the Mountain State on Thursday to mingle with fans.
. . .
"He (Schmidt) said if I could get paid, I swear to you he said I'd play the rest of my career at West Virginia University if they paid college players," Tony said.

The moment that captured Owen's love for the school and the state is captured forever on YouTube where he gave an emotional account of what it meant to play for WVU at the end of the Fiesta Bowl his senior. He says his current teammates on the Seattle Seahawks still ride him a little about that.

"It was a special moment. It came from the heart after the game. I still get a lot of slack for it in the locker room," Owen says.
. . .
The 6'2” Schmitt has seen action on the Seattle's offense and special teams playing in every game except the opener. He's hoping this next season will be his year to start.

"The GM (of Seattle) I was talking to him. Tim Ruskell, he told me just come in shape and fight for that starting job. Come in knowing that you're fighting for the starting," Schmitt said.

In next few weeks, Owen Schmitt will begin intensive training before he returns to Seattle for spring training camp.
. . .
http://www.58wchs.com/includes/news_items/3/news_items_more.php?id=5029§ion_id=3

2006 Undrafted Players

2009-01-26T18:59:00.000-08:00

Mike Lorello: The Pittsburgh Steelers picked up undrafted safety Lorello. Lorello signed with the Steelers, passing up other options such as the Bears. He was signed, released, and resigned multiple times while playing on the practice squad. Finally, in September of 2007, he was released for the last time after an injury.

Anthony Mims: The Chargers picked up Mims, a cornerback, after the draft. He was released before the season even began. It doesn't look as if he tried to continue his career elsewhere.

Jahmile Addae: The Buccaneers first signed Addae but he was shortly cut. Afterward he received interest from the Titans but ultimitly signed with the Colts.

During summer training camp, Addae collapsed while practicing and was rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, his career was ended when he found out he had an enlarged heart. Addae currently lives in his hometown in Florida, teaching and coaching at his high school Alma mater.

That Would Be Nice...

2009-01-26T11:22:00.000-08:00

White would love chance to be a Steeler
By Dave Morrison

Ask any ordinary prospective NFL draftee and he will tell you he doesn’t care which of the 32 NFL franchises picks him in April’s NFL draft.

As West Virginia fans know, Mountaineer quarterback Patrick White is no ordinary player.

So when White was asked Sunday at the Mountain State Coal Classic Tip-Off Banquet, of which he and WVU coach Bill Stewart were the keynote speakers, which, if any, NFL teams he might like to be drafted by, he had a refreshing response.

“Pittsburgh,” White said. “I grew up a Steelers fan. You didn’t come in my Pops’ house if you weren’t a Steelers fan.”

“And,” added Stewart, seated next to White at the pre-banquet press conference, “we’d love to keep him right here close to home.”
. . .
http://www.register-herald.com/sports/local_story_025233152.html

2007 Undrafted Players

2009-01-25T09:20:00.000-08:00

Brandon Myles: Expected to be drafted the during the second day of picks, Myles never received the call. He attended both Giants and Falcons mini-camps but was waived before the 2007 season ever began.

Dan Mozes: After a highly touted career at WVU, center Mozes went undrafted. Though many worried his size would not allow him to carry over into the NFL, the Vikings picked him up. Mozes injured his knee at the beginning of the season and never had a chance to play. He was invited back to the Viking's camp the following year, but was waived before the beginning of the 2008 season.

Cleo Kevin "Boo" McLee: You know who's hard to research? People with three first names. Mclee went undrafted but was picked up by the Rams as a linebacker. That summer, his father passed away and he left the Rams. Shortly afterwords, he was arrested with intent to deliver cocaine and marijuana. He received one year probation for the incident.

From there, the record becomes a bit fuzzy. Wikipedia says he went on to play in the CFL with the Calgary Stampeders but has no references. In 2008, it looks like he played in the Arena Football League 2 (a sort of farm league for the AFL) with the Iowa Barnstormers and the Green Bay Blizzards.

Most recently, he was drafted by Louisiana in the newly made United National Gridiron League.

Jeremy Sheffey: The Chargers picked up Offensive Guard Sheffey after the draft. He was given a two year contract but was released before the beginning of the season after an injury.

Sheffey was also picked up by the AFL 2's Blizzards. After a short stint with the AFL's New York Dragons in 2008, he returned to the AFL 2 and the Blizzards but was released after an injury.

Pittsnogle Ponders Rebound

2009-01-18T06:43:00.000-08:00

Lure of Pro Ball Still Tugs at Pittsnogle
By John Branch
New York Times, January 15, 2009

Martinsburg, WV -- There is a middle school up the hill from the McDonald’s here, and behind it are several classroom trailers, the type that are added when space gets tight and are never taken away.

Kevin Pittsnogle has put aside his basketball career for a chance to help a high school team as an assistant coach and teach special education students in his hometown, Martinsburg, W.Va.

Inside one of the trailers last Friday stood a tall man with a familiar face. He wore a Bugs Bunny tie and a gray dress shirt with sleeves rolled to the elbows. Tattoos spilled to his wrists. He spoke kindly to two of his special education students, who called him Mr. Pittsnogle.

On the inside of the door was a sign: “You are who you choose to be.”

For now, this is who Kevin Pittsnogle chooses to be.

Less than four years ago, he was a basketball star and a folk hero, a homegrown kid with a funny name, a bowl haircut, a 6-foot-11 frame covered in tattoos, and a baby-soft 3-point shot. During West Virginia’s unexpected thrill ride to the quarterfinals of the 2005 N.C.A.A. tournament, his name became a taunting verb: you’ve been Pittsnogled. His mother still has a box of the T-shirts in a closet.

Less than three years ago, Pittsnogle was an all-American senior averaging 19.3 points who led West Virginia to the 2006 regional semifinals. He expected to be chosen in the N.B.A draft. He was not.
. . .
As a player, Pittsnogle is a pure shooter whose body does not match his skills. Kelvin Sampson, then the coach at Oklahoma, once called him a “two-guard who grew to 6-11.” After college, Pittsnogle’s weight grew, too, by about 40 pounds, to 300.

“I kept hearing, ‘You’re overweight,’ ” Pittsnogle said. “ ‘You can average 20 points a game, but we’re not going to bring you up until you lose some weight.’ ”
. . .
But something happened on the way back to an ordinary life. Pittsnogle learned last fall that he had a thyroid condition that slowed his metabolism. It helped explain his fluctuating weight, long trending upward.

Medication has helped him lose 25 pounds and re-energize his playing hopes. He is pondering N.B.A. summer leagues, one last time.

“If I look the way I’m supposed to look, and play the way I’m supposed to play, I think I’ll get a chance,” Pittsnogle said. “If not, I’ll come back and live my life here.”
. . .
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/16/sports/ncaabasketball/16pittsnogle.html

JR Isdaner Declares for Draft

2009-01-13T18:41:00.000-08:00

WVU's Isdaner headed for NFL draft
Pittsburgh Post Gazette, January 10, 2009

West Virginia fourth-year junior guard Greg Isdaner -- who started but soon after gave way to senior John Bradshaw in the Mountaineers' bowl game two weeks ago -- plans to skip his senior season and enter April's NFL draft.

Isdaner, a 6-foot-4, 322-pound lineman from Gladwyne, Pa., started 36 career games for the Mountaineers. NFLDraftScout.com forecast him as a fourth-round pick in 2010.
. . .
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09010/941044-144.stm

2008 Undrafted Players

2009-01-13T17:48:00.000-08:00

Marc Magro: Undrafted in 2008, linebacker Margo was signed to the Miami Dolphins practice squad. After this, there is some conflicting information. There are sources saying he was cut by the Dolphins in October but picked up by the Rams in September. Not possible. Either way, he ended up with the Buccaneers practice squad.

Johnny Dingle: The Kansas City Chiefs picked up Dingle, who left college early, after he was undrafted in 2008. The Chiefs played him during the preseason but released him before regular games began.

Keilen Dykes: The Arizona Cardinals signed Dykes, a defensive tackle. He was released before the beginning of the season but then resigned to the practice squad.

Darius Reynaud: The Vikings picked up Reynaud after the draft, released him, then re-signed him the the practice squad. During the season, he was given a chance as a kick returner. Reynaud returned eight kicks for 201 yards, a 25.5 yard average. He was limited during the latter portion of the season, due to a turf toe injury.

Eric Wicks: Wicks was signed by the Seattle Seahawks but was released before the regular season after two injuries.

2000 NFL Draftees

2009-01-12T20:03:00.000-08:00

Anthony Becht: The 2000 NFL draft has been pretty productive. Becht was drafted by the Jets in the first round (27th overall) but only managed to have 40 receptions in his college career. This tells us the guy was one hell of a blocker.

In five seasons with the Jets (2000-2004), Becht seems have been given more of a receiving role than anywhere else. He peaked in 2003 with 40 receptions for 356 yards, an impressive 8.6 yards a gain, while making 26 first downs. In 2004, however, he had a career low 100 receptions. The stats say he was on the roster for all the games in his last year with the Jets (only missing two in his career - his rookie year - so far).

Since his time with the Jets, Becht signed with the Buccaneers but has been hampered with injuries. Knee, ankle, hamstring, and most recently his elbow. He even had lasik eye surgery. He wasn’t used much as a receiver. In 2007, Becht became an unrestricted free agent and, although still sought after by the Bucs, signed with the Rams.

Coincidently, signing with the Rams as a free agent in 2008 teamed Becht up with former WVU teammates Mark Bulger and Marc Magro.

Jerry Porter: The Oakland Raiders drafted Porter in the second round (47th overall) as a wide receiver. Porter played for the Raiders for eight years (2000 to 2007). During his time there, 2004 and 2005 appeared to be his most productive and he had over 900 yards in each. 2006, with the hiring of head coach Art Shell, spelled the beginning of the end for Porter’s tenure in Oakland. He openly criticized Shell’s hiring and asked to be traded before the season began. He was suspended in August of that year due to open criticism during practice, though his sentiment was echoed by other players. After only playing in four games in 2006, Porter bounced back in 2007 while receiving 705 yards without Shell at the helm.

Porter became a free agent after the 2007 season and was picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was plagued by both hamstring and groin injuries during the 2008 season. After only having 11 receptions, giving him about $1 million a catch, there’s some talk about him not being invited back.

Barrett Green: The Detroit Lions drafted green in the second round (50th overall) as a linebacker. He played four years in Detroit (2000-2003) and was generally productive. His pinnacle, both for the Lions and his career, came in 2003 with 93 tackles and 3 sacks.

Green was signed by the Giants in 2004, playing there for two years. His first year, he started in nine games and only had 37 tackles. During the 2005 season, Green was plagued by knee and ankle injuries and barely played at all.

Green attended a Miami Dolphins mini-camp in 2006 but was injured during practice. Shortly afterward, in May of 2006, he was signed to a one year contract with the Houston Texans. After re-aggravating his groin injury during practice, he was not able to suit up for pre-season games and was released in August before the beginning of regular season.

Rumor Mill: Alexander to be Traded

2009-01-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

It's said that Joe Alexander and Ramon Sessions may be traded from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Memphis Grizzlies for Mike Conley.

Pacman Released from Cowboys

2009-01-08T11:25:00.000-08:00

ESPN Snitches On Pacman, Costs Him His Job
By Dashiell Bennett

Reporter John Barr was preparing a story for Sunday's edition of "Outside the Lines," alleging that Adam was under investigation for "ordering" the shooting of three men, following an altercation at a strip club. This happened in June 2007, after he had already been suspended a full year for a completely separate strip club shooting incident. Barr waited until Wednesday to call the NFL, the Cowboys, and Jones' agent for comment, and claims that they knew about the investigation, but that he provided them new details that they were not aware of. Hours later, Jones was gone.
. . .
http://deadspin.com/5126160/espn-snitches-on-pacman-costs-him-his-job?skyline=true&s=x

Cowboys release troubled CB Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones
By Jeff Carlton
The Associated Press, January 8, 2009

Irving, TX (AP) -- Adam “Pacman” Jones’ attorney doesn’t think the troubled cornerback will be unemployed for long.

The Dallas Cowboys said Wednesday they are done with Jones, releasing him after a 2008 season marred by disappointing play and a six-game suspension for an off-field scuffle.
. . .
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-cowboys-pacmanjones&prov=ap&type=lgns

Avon Cobourne

2009-01-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

Although Avon Cobourne was one of WVU’s most decorated runners, he was undrafted. He was picked up by the Detroit Lions in 2003 and played seven games that year, rushing 10 times for 27 yards. In 2004, Cobourne was transferred to the NFL Europa Cologne Centurions where he played with fellow Mountaineer Lance Nimmo. In 2005, he signed with the Miami Dolphins but was let go before the season opener.

In 2006, Couburne made a move to Canada by joining the Montreal Alouettes and the CFL. He played as a backup running back for his first two years and gained the starting job in 2008. This past year he ran for 950 yards on 145 attempts, 6.6 yards a carry, and caught passes for 607 more yards. The Alouettes made it to the Grey Cup but lost 22-14 to the Calgary Stampeders. What’s the Grey Cup? The CFL’s Super Bowl and the most watched sports event in Canada. Huh.

Tired of reading? Here's a video.

2003 NFL Draftees

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Lance Nimmo: Nimmo is a hard guy to find. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round (130th overall) as a tackle. His practice squad career lasted from 2003 to 2005, ending in where it began in Tampa. In between, he also played for the Patriots, Jets, and Browns. But that’s not all, he also played for the Cologne Centurians in the NFL Europa. There are no stats whatsoever for him, even for his time in Europe. At least he got to travel.

James Davis: Drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fifth round (144th overall), Davis played threes years for the team. His top year came 2004 when he recorded 83 tackles and 3.5 sacks as a linebacker starting all 16 games. He also started 16 games in 2005, however his stats were depressed. Davis was released before the beginning of the 2006 season and was subsequently signed by the Giants in early 2007. After playing time during pre-season he was cut again. That’s too bad, he could’ve had a shiny ring if he pulled through.

2004 NFL Draftees

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Quincy Wilson was the only WVU player drafted in 2004. He was taken by the Atlanta Falcons in the seventh round (219th overall). After taking several snaps during the preseason, he was downgraded to the practice squad and the signed by the Bengals near the end of the year. Wilson spent the next three years (2005-2007) with the Bengals, playing on the practice squad or acting as a backup and usually only playing when injuries occurred. Overall, he had 2 carries for 2 yards in four games he dressed for in his career.

He does have another distinction. He was arrested in 2007, making him the second Bengal from WVU to be arrested and the third in the NFL in a fairly short period of time (the other two are from the 2005 draft).

Let’s remember him for something else, shall we?

2005 NFL Draftees

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Rasheed Marshall: Marshall was drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round (174th overall) and wasn't particularly impressive there. He was converted from QB to receiver and used as a return specialist. He had 43 touches as either a punt or kick returner and averaged 5.1 and 18.8 yards a return, respectively. More importantly he had 4 fumbles during those 43 touches. I don't think coaches like giving the ball back after kicks/punts. Marshall was let go after the 2005 season. Between 2006 and 2007 he hopped from the Steelers (another surprise) to the Rams practice squad before departing for the Arena League. I don't know much about the Arena League, so if you're interested you can check out his stats.

Chris Henry: Not one of West Virginia's favorite sons. He was drafted in the third round (83rd overall) by the Bengals. On the field he hasn't been great recently. Looking at his stats, he seems to have peaked in 2006 with 605 receiving yards and only had 220 in 2008 (while only playing in one more game in 2006 than 2008). Of course, the Bengals were beat up this year and looked downright ugly. Unless they were playing the Redskins, anyway.

Adam "Pacman" Jones: Titans to Cowboys, troubles the name. I don't feel like getting into it. For more insight, watch the hilarious video below.

2006 NFL Draftees

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Alton "Dee" McCann was the only 2006 draftee. He was drafted by the lions in the sixth round (179th overall). Unfortunately for McCann, his career never made it off the ground. It looks like he spent his 2006 season on the Lions practice squad and then attempted to make the Vikings in 2007. In Minnesota he was released from the practice squad before the beginning of the season, never to be heard of again. At least by me.

Joe Alexander - Rookie Season So Far

2009-01-05T13:12:00.001-08:00

I'll be the first to admit, I not the biggest NBA buff. As a layman, Alexander seems to be doing pretty well. He was drafted 8th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks and has averaged 4.1 points and 1.9 rebounds in just under 12 minutes a game.

Outside of the usual stats, Alexander may also end up in the Slam Dunk Contest this February. If he gets enough votes.

Here he is acting goofy, begging for votes.

Ryan Mundy - Rookie Season?

2009-01-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly, I didn't realize that Ryan Mundy was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers (surprising since they're my pro-team). Mundy was drafted in the sixth round (194th overall). The reason I didn't realize that he wasn't on the Steelers roster was because, well, he wasn't. Mundy suffered an ankle sprain in pre-season and was released. In November he was re-signed to the practice squad. Next year?

Below is an interview with Mundy by a local Pittsburgh station.

Owen Schmitt - Rookie Season

2009-01-05T10:32:00.000-08:00

Owen Schmitt, everyone's favorite Mountaineer at one point or another, was drafted late in the fifth round (163rd overall) by the Seattle Seahawks. He was used sparsely by Seattle as a backup fullback. He only carried the ball five times but had a respectable 4.2 yards a carry. Hopefully he'll see more playing time next year. Much of that will hinge what the Seahawk's offense looks like after the coaching change.

Below is a nice little highlight from a pre-season game. Look familiar?

Steve Slaton - Rookie Season

2009-01-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

I feel that I should start with Slaton, since it seems he is the most prolific 'Eer to Pro in recent years. He was drafted in the third round (89th overall) by the Houston Texans in 2008. He put up great rookie numbers in his first year. Slaton ended up the Texan's go-to RB and amassed 1,282 yards on 268 carries (4.8 yards per carry). This makes him the top rookie running back as well as 6th overall in total yards. Additionally, he only had two fumbles. This is good to hear as I'm sure Mountaineer fans remember a few of his gut wrenching fumbles during college.

Below is an interview video and below that some rookie season highlights.

Welcome!

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This blog is dedicated to former WVU Mountaineer sports stars who are lucky enough to make a mark in professional sports. My main goal is to gather the information needed to keep fans up to date, all in one place. If you'd like to be helpful and send me something you come across on the subject, please do.