In this week's "Directors Cut" series we invite you to the 1980's and welcome you to Pee-Wee's playhouse. According to the Dallas Morning News, Paul Reuben's made a guest appearance with the Dallas Cowboys dressed as his wildly popular Pee Wee Herman character.
Pee Wee mingled with the fans and took photos with Tony Romo, Coach Jason Garrett and even owner Jerry Jones. Apparently, Pee Wee Herman was in town to shoot an episode of "Top Chef" and just decided to show up. Hopefully, he didn't barge into the locker rooms trying to get a sneak peak at Romo's willy.
Below is a clip highlighting his visit with the Dallas Cowboys:
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New York Sports Today is a great NYC sports blog that's joining the Bloguin Netwok this month. Below is a sneak peak of their daily "Jet's Camp" series. The post is provided by Nick Q in it's entirety.
- Jerricho Cotchery has officially been released by the Jets. Reports now say that it’s Cotchery that wanted to leave, not the other way around. Jerricho apparently requested a trade or to be released back in February.
- Derrick Mason hasn’t been signed yet, which comes as a huge surprise. If he doesn’t come here, the Jets need to find a third receiver. Jeremy Kerley has potential, but he is just an unproven rookie as of now.
- The Patriots signed Mark Anderson today. Hopefully this means Shaun Ellis will stay away from New England. I will be very disappointed if the Jets let Ellis go.
- James Ihedigbo still hasn’t been signed. With Brodney Pool returning, you have to wonder if the Jets will re-sign Ihedigbo. He definitely still has a role on this team on special teams and as an occasional sub-in at safety.
- Former Giants tight end Kevin Boss signed with the Raiders today. His four-year, $16 million deal was way too much for the Jets to offer.
- It took long enough but the Giants and 1st round draft pick Prince Amukamara have agreed to a deal.The talented corner-back was the last of all the first round draft choices to sign. The Giants have made an adventure of signing players this off-season and the only two significant moves to date have been expected. This off-season they have re-signed Ahmad Bradshaw, and have signed a Prince.no comments
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Today, the Pittsburgh Steelers voted against the ratification of the NFL and NFL players association new collective bargaining agreement based on their concern that the agreement doesn’t sufficiently address the leagues systems of fines, on and off the field.
The Steelers have been vocal against the NFL commissioner’s role 
with disciplinary actions since 2010 when Harrison was fined over $75,000 over the newly instated “illegal hits.” Today, the all time leading Super Bowl organization officially declared their stance against the NFL and ultimately Roger Goodell himself.
The Steelers rhetoric has become more direct as of late especially considering James Harrison’s recent interview in which he called Roger Goodell “dumb,” a “puppet” a “devil” and asserted that, "If that man was on fire and I had to piss to put him out, I wouldn't do it. I hate him and will never respect him."
Though James Harrison has been the most vocal and hostile many others within the Steelers organization have voiced their displeasure in a civil manner. The latest being safety Ryan Clark but even golden boy Troy Polamalu, Coach Mike Tomlin and president Art Rooney II, have made their displeasure with the league’s new approach known.
The CBA isn’t in jeopardy because of the Steelers vote but its interesting to see one of the most prominent and highly respected organizations within the NFL take a hard stance against the commissioners jury, judge, and executioner role with on and off the field fines. Something tells me this story is just getting started.
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"On the Beat" is a periodical collection of newsworthy Browns tidbits.
-One of the most pleasant memories of the Browns' 2010 season came courtesy of some timely gamesmanship and the running abilities of punter Reggie Hodges. Against New Orleans, Cleveland ran a fake punt of 4th and long, and Hodges sprinted 67 yards before being taken down at the Saints' 10-yard line. The fake punt set up another score en route to the Browns' stunning 30-17 upset over the defending Super Bowl-champion Saints. Hodges immediately fell into favor of Browns fans everywhere, which makes Tuesday's occurence that much more disappointing.
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During a special teams drill, long snapper Ryan Pontbriand sent a high snap back to Hodges, forcing him to jump to catch the ball. Upon lift-off, Hodges caught the ball and then immediately crumpled to the ground. Trainers and teammates huddled around Hodges, and he was promptly taken off the field on a cart. After learning the news that Hodges ruptured his achilles tendon, head coach Pat Shurmur said it is likely that Hodges is done for the season, making the search for a reliable punter crucial for the Browns in 2011. Why? Because according to historic trends, the Browns punt quite often, and after I witnessed rookie receiver Greg Little drop three short, easy passes on Tuesday morning, they may be punting a lot this season.
-The trade that had many Browns fans as excited as I was was officially declared null and void on Monday, thanks to one player's decision to never show up to his new place of work. Brodrick Bunkley, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, and pending a physical that never happened, also formerly of the Cleveland Browns, was instead traded to the Denver Broncos on Monday. Bunkley refused to report to Berea after learning that he had been traded to the Browns last Friday, thus making the transaction between Philadelphia and Cleveland void. The Eagles returned the Browns 2012 5th round pick and then dealt Bunkley to Denver for a 2013 conditional pick. It seems like they really wanted to get him out the door, especially after signing defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins. Eagles officials said the issue with Bunkley wasn't that he was the type of guy to dictate where he would go, but was shocked that he had been traded. In my opinion, that still doesn't make it OK for Bunkley to refuse to report to camp. It will be interesting to see where the Browns will go from here in order to address their dire need of depth on the defensive line.
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I was surfing the web and stumbled across a photo via Big Lead Sports and the Denver Post.
The photo is of a tattoo that is possibly the greatest tribute to any NFL football player alive. Joey Bouchard, a life long Broncos fan, has covered his entire leg with a tribute to the Denver Broncos legendary quarterback John Elway. If his enormous tattoo wasn't already enough he plans to add Elway's Super Bowl rings and signature into the mix before calling it quits. The tattoo took a reported 85 hours to complete.
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Tim Tebow being called the golden boy of Florida is an understatement. Having lived in Florida for over a decade I witnessed his super star status first hand. In some way shape or form he made the local paper everyday. Whether it 
was a pep-rally speech, charity event, or a rumored fling his moments were reported and broadcasted to all Floridians whether we wanted to hear it or not.
As you know, Tim Tebow’s celebrity has grown leaps and bounds over the years. He’s been labeled the all American guy and has been compared to Jesus as the “What Would Tebow Do” phase has somehow survived in central Florida. He is a living god in Alachua and Duval County and has solidified his national popularity with a Heisman Trophy and a couple of National Championships to boot. He’s become a polarizing figure, as he’s simply that guy you either love or hate.
It’s no secret that Tebow’s high draft selection raised a few eyebrows. Tim played in a spread offense that rarely required him to learn or develop basic quarterback techniques. Thus, he didn’t and still doesn’t have the natural footwork and arm mechanics that the NFL strongly desires.
Despite Tebow’s apparent lack of QB skills the Denver Broncos voiced confidence in him by first drafting him and by recently trying to trade away their other more experienced quarterback Kyle Orton. In fact, the Dolphins and Broncos were in heavy trade discussions up until four days ago. Sounds promising for Tebow right?
The trade fell through so Kyle Orton reported to training camp this week. The problem is that Orton has significantly outperformed Tebow and the players, executives, and media have all noticed.
Merril Hoge, an ESPN analyst, blasted Tim Tebow on his mechanics and questioned the Broncos executives for even considering Tebow over Kyle Orton.
"I just watched Tebow throw 5 out routes to a wide open WR! He was 1 for 5! Dirt 2 in the stands! That throwing motion he changed? U can't change who u r! Just watched 2 throws and he throws like he did in college!!," Hoge wrote via his Twitter account.
Furthermore, the NFL Network’s insider Michael Lombardi reported that the decision by John Elway and John Fox not to pull the trigger on an Orton trade has made the 2010 first-round pick expendable. STARTER TO EXPENDABLE in FOUR DAYS!
It’s not all bad for the Floridian God as Lebron James came to his defense by tweeting, "Tim Tebow will succeed in the NFL. He's a hard worker, a student of the game, a natural born leader and most of all a WINNER!" James continues with, "Guys get on that TV and act like they was all WORLD when they played. How bout encouraging him and wishing him the best instead of hating!!"
Additionally, former Oakland Raiders quarterback Rich Gannon came to Tebow’s defense. “It bothers me when old 
running backs or old offensive linemen who’ve now become analysts start analyzing the quarterback position," Gannon said. "They’re not experts at it. They’ve never played the position. I’m always curious, when they put on the tape, what are they watching? Are they watching footwork? Are they watching mechanics? Are they watching anticipation? Do they understand what the quarterback is told in terms of the progressions, where the read is? You know, so those are the things that really bother me and I just thought he came out and his comments were very strong and I thought a little out of line when you talk about Tim Tebow.”
So what happened? Well the same thing that’s been going on since 2006. Tim Tebow was in the news all day long, as many fans didn’t like Merrill Hoge’s comments in regards to the all American. In fact, every show on ESPN was forced to defend their NFL analyst for doing his job, which is to analyze NFL players. Tony Kornheiser, one of the hosts for PTI on ESPN, even took jabs at Lebron James response and insinuated that they were self-serving and not in Tebow’s defense. In my opinion, it further legitimizes Tebow’s polarizing popularity across the nation as it takes a very popular person to put the media on its heels.
So where does the NFL’s leading jersey seller go from here? I’m not sure Tim or the Broncos know the answer to that question. There could be a PR backlash towards the Broncos if they drop or trade Tebow but there also could be issues with stringing him along if they don’t have long-term intentions.
Kyle Orton could get hurt and Tebow could fill in and pull a Michael Vick by never giving the starting position back or he could fail miserably and contend with Jamarcus Russell for the NFL’s all time bust.
Despite a great distain for Tebow I want him to succeed. He’s one of the kids who does everything right. He’s the guy who stands by his beliefs when it’s not chic to believe in what he believes in. He’s someone different that one moment you hate and the next you love. He’s refreshing, frustrating and inspiring all in one.
He’s not perfect, my Crimson Tide made him cry like a little girl, but he’s made all the right choices and said all the right things and I believe that anyone who plays the game the right way and works hard will eventually succeed. I’m not endorsing Tebow but he’s only been in the league for a year. This is my warning to the masses; don’t underestimate a kid compared to Jesus. He could very well succeed whether he’s with the Bronco’s or not.
Follow @twittablogga no commentsFootball is a fast paced and intense game. To stay on top of its breaking news and developing trends you need a source who can keep pace. "Moving the Chains: The Daily Links" is your daily one page source that highlights everything football from the day.
Tatupu, Hayden Visit Redskins Park | Washing Redskin Official Site
Free agent linebacker Lofa Tatupu and free agent cornerback Kelvin Hayden visited Redskins Park this week. Head coach Mike Shanahan confirmed on Thursday that both Tatupu and Hayden met with team officials to discuss joining the Redskins.
Reciever Edwards agrees to 1 year deal with 49ners | Saint Louis Dispatch
Edwards' agent, Ben Dogra, confirmed the deal to The Associated Press, less than an hour before San Francisco's free agents could take the field for the first time under new coach Jim Harbaugh _ who, like Edwards, is a former Michigan man.
Jets Plaxico Burress tweaks ankle, doesn't practice | CBS Sports
Plaxico Burress has to wait a little longer before he makes his Jets practice debut. The newly signed wide receiver will be sidelined for a day or two after he tweaked his left ankle running routes with Santonio Holmes on Wednesday without anyone throwing to him or defending him.
Quarterback Competition | Carolina Panthers Official Site
Video of Head coach Ron Rivera assesesing the Panthers quarterback competion.
RB Darren McFadden breaks orbital bone | Contr Costa Times
Raiders coach Hue Jackson just revealed that lead running back Darren McFadden missed practice Thursday because he suffered a fractured orbital bone. McFadden is expected to miss two weeks or so. Jackson pointed out how McFadden missed significant time in training camp last season and went on to have the best season of his three-year NFL career.
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A Los Angeles council committee voted Wednesday to endorse a tentative framework agreement with a private developer that wants to build a 72,000-seat NFL stadium on the city's convention center campus. The 4-0 vote by members of the council's special temporary committee on stadium-related issues sends the non-binding memorandum of understanding with Anschutz Entertainment Group to the full council for a final vote next week.
Councilman Bill Rosendahl said before the vote was taken that the agreement was the result of tough negotiations with AEG, which had originally proposed a plan that would have required the city to take on more risk. "The partnership is moving in the right direction," said Rosendahl, who co-chairs the committee. The agreement calls for the issuance of $275 million in tax-exempt bonds for the relocation of a convention center hall to accommodate the proposed $1.2 billion football venue.
AEG agreed in the proposed framework to break $80 million of the $275 million in debt into a special type of bond that is financed with a tax on its nearby properties such as Staples Center and the LA Live entertainment complex and puts the facilities on the line if the company doesn't pay.
The agreement also requires AEG to extend a series of financial guarantees over the course of the project as a safeguard against shortfalls and other risks. If the full council approves the framework deal, members will vote later on separate definitive stadium-related agreements, such as its development and financing deals and its clearance under state environmental regulations.
Most council members have voiced guarded support for the stadium proposal in previous hearings. AEG spokesman Michael Roth had no immediate comment after the vote. AEG's stadium plan is one of two competing proposals to bring professional football back to Los Angeles some 16 years after the Rams and Raiders left the nation's second-largest market.
Warehouse magnate Ed Roski's Majestic Realty Co. has permits in place to build a separate 75,000-seat stadium about 15 miles east of Los Angeles, in the city of Industry. Neither proposed site has secured a team.
This article was written and provided by via the Associated Press in it's entirety. no comments
Charles Aaron “Bubba” Smith was found dead on Wednesday in his Baldwin Hills home. There were no signs of foul 
play and the L.A. Counties coroner’s office has decided not to conduct an autopsy as they believe Smith died of natural causes.
The football and acting star was born in Beaumont, Texas and was drafted as the NFL’s 1967 No. 1 draft pick out of Michigan State University. The 6-foot-7 Smith, played pro football from 1967-1976 taking home a Super Bowl ring in 1971 with the Indianapolis Colts and also playing in two Pro Bowls. Bubba was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
"I'm saddened by it," Colts owner Jim Irsay told ESPN. " I remember my first training camp in 1972 in Golden, Colo. I spent a lot of time with him there. He was a great guy. He was a giant, the biggest player on the field."
Though Bubba Smith was a Gridiron star, many younger fans (like myself) knew of Smith only through his acting career. Bubba played numerous acting roles throughout the 70’s and 80’s but was best known as “Sergeant Moses Hightower,” in the popular comedy, “Police Academy.”
Bubba Smith was known as a humble and kind soul who had no pretense. His death his a sad day for sports fans and movie buffs alike. Below is a video highlighting his role with Police Academy.
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UPDATE: 12:23 PM August 5th
It seems that Braylon Edwards contract isn't as nice as previously thought. I reported yesterday that I thought Braylon Edwards was worth little more than the veteran league minimum. I was shocked when it was reported that Edwards signed a 3.5 million dollar deal with the 49ners yet I ate crow and updated my post (see below). However, today I've been vindicated as NBC Sports is reporting that Edwards contract has a 1 million dollar base salary with ZERO guaranteed money! The 3.5 million originally reported is what Braylon will receive if he reaches ALL of his incentive benchmarks. Sounds about right and Boom goes the dynamite!
UPDATE: 9:38 PM August 4th
Braylon Edwards agreed to a deal with the San Francisco 49ners for a one year 3.5 million deal. The 49ners announce the deal about an hour after I orginially posted this article. It seems that the 49ners are willing to overlook Braylon's possible down falls as they have gotten his services for half of what he was paid last year. In our opinion they over paid.
Original Post:
Braylon Edwards is arguably the NFL’s best remaining free agent but his off the field issues may result in a prolonged search for employment.
On Monday, Edwards was involved in a bar fight in Birmingham, Michigan which resulted in his two cousins being arrested for felony assault. Reports are surfacing that the fight escalated into a full-blown riot that left two bouncers
injured from stab wounds. Granted, the stab wounds weren’t severe as one bouncer was stabbed with a fork and the other with a pocketknife. Never the less, sources have reported that Edwards was directly involved with the scrum and this doesn’t bode well for a player who is currently on probation for multiple DUI charges.
Issue #1: Edwards made $6.1 million in 2010 and based on his continued search for employment one can assume that he isn’t looking to take a pay cut in 2011. With the NFL’s new cap most teams don’t have $6 million to spare.
Issue #2: Edwards likely faces a suspension for his involvement in the bar fight whether he’s formally charged or not. Remember, Roger Goodell can suspend players based solely on how players actions damage the NFL’s brand (See Ben Roethlisberger circa 2010 for the most recent example.) Edwards has DUI charges stemming from his days in Cleveland and New York and now has a bar fight to top it off. Intuition tells me that three strikes and Goodell slaps you down.
So is Braylon worth the trouble? Not at his current asking price. In our opinion, he isn’t worth the 6.1 million even without the off the field issues. Dubbed inconsistent since his stint with the Browns and faced with a likely suspension he just isn’t worth the money he's asking for. His former employer Rex Ryan summed it up best, "If Braylon wants to come back for what we can pay, come on back, Braylon."
Whether intended or not, Rex Ryan's comments speak volumes into whether Braylon is worth signing at all. Think about it, they signed Plaxico Burress who hasn’t seen a football field in two years rather than sign Edwards who knows the system already. If you ask me, you can expect Edwards to possibly sign a deal for a league veteran minimum salary with a ton of incentives.
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