Warren Sapp has labeled the Steelers’ D “old and slow” over the past few years. Ben Roethlisberger now says Dick LeBeau’s unit — with rookie Ryan Shazier — is as fast as any he has seen in Pittsburgh.
Ben Roethlisberger: Steelers’ D as fast as any I’ve seen
The NFL rookie symposium is helping players prepare for life as a pro. Lions rookie Eric Ebron said players need to find a balance between being an on-field superhero and locker room professional.
Lions’ Eric Ebron: Find balance in Superman, Clark Kent
New York Jets DT Sheldon Richardson is not worried about a sophomore slump, ‘That sounds like a rookie wall, something I never hit,’ he said. Richardson is focused primarily on working out and preparing his body for the beginning of training camp.
Jets | Sheldon Richardson dismisses sophomore slump notion
The Dallas Cowboys are betting on DT Henry Melton (knee) recovering from ACL surgery and performing at a high level, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones. Jones noted Melton’s success with defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli’s system when both were with the Chicago Bears.
Cowboys | Betting on Henry Melton
Updating a previous report, New England Patriots first-round selection DT Dominique Easley’s four-year contract is worth $7.303 million, with $5.887 million guaranteed and a $3.631 million signing bonus, according to a source.
Patriots | Dominique Easley contract details
Chicago Bears DE Cornelius Washington was arrested Friday, June 20, for speeding and driving with a suspended license, according to the Glascock County Sheriff’s Office.
Bears | Cornelius Washington arrested
USC offering 4-year scholarships for hoops, FB
USC offering 4-year scholarships for hoops, FB
The New England Patriots announced the singing of first-round pick Dominique Easley. The versatile defensive lineman will bring an infusion of young talent to the Patriots’ front.
Dominique Easley, New England Patriots sign contract
The New England Patriots have signed free-agent OT Chris Martin (Texans). Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Patriots | Chris Martin signed
The New England Patriots have signed first-round draft choice DT Dominique Easley. Terms of the contract were not disclosed, but all contracts signed by draft picks are four-year deals, according to NFL rules.
Footballguys View: Easley is one of the most naturally talented defensive tackles in the game. A knee injury limited him to three games last year, and he should be shut down for his rookie season in 2014 in order to fully recover. When healthy, Easley gets off the snap quickly, has a violent initial punch and can regularly create pressure on the quarterback with his tireless motor. The Patriots will have to wait for the payoff with Easley, but the payoff could be huge.
Patriots | Dominique Easley signs