Off The Wire:

NFL Spokesman Says Patriots Forced Several Rule Changes

If a persistent problem is identified, the league's eight-member competition committee suggests changes to rules. In discussions of changes since 2000, one team, the New England Patriots, has surfaced more than any other, according to a longtime NFL team executive with direct knowledge of the meetings. The committee heard accusations that the Patriots had taped opposing coaches' signals, placed microphones on defensive players to steal quarterbacks' audible signals and manipulated clocks and coach-to-quarterback radio systems. The league has handled the complaints internally, finding no proof  ...

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Roger Goodell Sweeping Spygate Under Rug

Former Patriots videographer Matt Walsh has turned over more ''Spygate'' evidence to the NFL and is to meet on Tuesday with commissioner Roger Goodell. Eight new tapes show illegal spying on opponents' signals in six games between 2000-02, three of the games involving the Dolphins. That is beyond the 2007 incident that cost the Pats a first-round draft pick and coach Bill Belichick a substantial fine. Despite the new evidence, it is widely believed Goodell will theatrically carry a large pushbroom into the meeting with Walsh in order to more efficiently sweep the scandal under the rug.



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Jon Gruden Could Be Losing Power In Tampa Bay

Jon Gruden arrived in Tampa Bay in 2002 wielding a considerable amount of influence over personnel and other decisions. When the Glazer family coughed up two first-round draft picks, a pair of seconds and a cool $8-million, well, it was certainly implied Gruden would be heard. Gruden still enjoys a great deal of influence and probably always will. But here's what has changed: General manager Bruce Allen might be gaining on him. It has become apparent through a series of behind-the-scenes events and by reading between a lot of lines that Allen's profile has grown. He's no longer your garden-var ...

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Giants Unsure That TE Jeremey Shockey Will Return

Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride admits he isn't sure whether Jeremy Shockey will stay with the club this season. "It's so nebulous right now. I just have no idea what's going to happen," Gilbride said. "Who knows? It's certainly beyond my hands." The Giants are stil unlikely to trade Shockey. He's a good starter and only costs $1.9 million.

Source ...

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Cowboys Coaches Meet With SS Roy Williams

Cowboys defensive coaches Brian Stewart and Brett Maxie met with SS Roy Williams Friday to discuss his commitment to the team. Williams left the meeting comfortable he'll find his niche in Dallas' scheme. The Cowboys may remove Williams from the nickel package this season, but he's still a good bet for 80 tackles. Just don't anticipate many big plays.

Source ...

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Hey!

Which rookie quarterback will have the most success this season?
Matt Ryan
Brian Brohm
Joe Flacco
Chad Henne
John David Booty
None will.
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