NFL Offseason News – May 19
Bears sign lineman Webb to four-year deal
Sports betting gurus who follow the NFL are aware that in Chicago, the Bears' fate pretty much begins and ends with the performance and the mental toughness of quarterback Jay Cutler. Being aware of this, bettors will need to realize that Cutler's quality is also at least somewhat dependent on the level of protection he receives. Therefore, it was and is notable that on Sunday, May 16, the Bears signed offensive lineman J'Marcus Webb to a four-year contract. The seventh-round pick is an offensive tackle, the most important position on an offensive line. If he can overcome his low place in the draft pecking order and make a breakthrough, the Bears could have themselves a steal. It remains to be seen, though, how good Webb will turn out to be.
Chiefs get tight end Banks
On Monday, May 17, the Kansas City Chiefs acted quickly to snatch up a player they evidently wanted. After the Atlanta Falcons released tight end Leroy Banks on Thursday, May 13, the Chiefs plucked him four days later. Kansas City coach Todd Haley is a former offensive coordinator, and he has former Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis as his current offensive coordinator with the Chiefs. When Weis was at Notre Dame, he had a superb collection of tight ends that he used frequently. Therefore, the decision to bring in another tight end - while perhaps not a great one - could ultimately benefit Kansas City's passing game. Quarterback Matt Cassell certainly hopes this move works out for his own sake, and for the sake of his relationship with Weis, his new play caller.
Redskins sign veteran defensive lineman in continuous push for pass rushing
NFL betting observers have to take note of what's happening in D.C.
The Washington Redskins signed veteran defensive lineman Vonnie Holliday on Monday, May 17. Holliday has 12 years of NFL experience to his credit, most recently for the Denver Broncos in 2009 when he accumulated five sacks, two forced fumbles and 33 tackles in 16 games.
The signing continues a steady progression in which the Redskins have loaded up on defensive linemen in the offseason. The team traded for Adam Carriker and signed Maake Kemoeatu, plus Howard Green and Darrion Scott, among others. Everyone's naturally inclined to talk about new quarterback Donovan McNabb and focus on the offensive side of the ball, and that's entirely understandable. However, if Washington can develop enough of a defensive presence - and Holliday would certainly appear to be a solid addition as a third-down pass-rushing specialist - the Redskins might challenge in the NFC East even without a top-flight offense.