Falcons finally cut bait!

[Ben E Lou]

Falcons cut Price
Wide receiver was entering third year of $37.5M deal
Flowery Branch -- For the Falcons, the Price was wrong.

After months of speculation, the team released wide receiver Peerless Price Tuesday morning, parting with a once highly productive player who failed to live up to lofty expectations and a $37 million contract ($10 million signing bonus) after being acquired from the Buffalo Bills for a first-round draft pick in 2003.

<!--endtext--><!--endclickprintinclude--><!--startclickprintinclude--><!--begintext--> Price was told before practice and sped out of the parking lot at team headquarters in his BMW just as the team was beginning to stretch for the day's drills.

"I hate y'all," Price said to an AJC photographer, before hustling into his car without further comment.

The waiving of Price enables him to catch on with another team before the start of the season. The Tennessee Titans and the Philadelphia Eagles, the Falcons' season-opening opponent, are thin at wide receiver and could be first in line to give Price a chance.

As for the Falcons, the biggest question looming has been answered. Now, the team has to find a fifth receiver, which could come either through picking up a veteran who has been released by another team - the Cincinnati Bengals waived former first-round pick Peter Warrick Tuesday - or by signing a player already in camp.

Rookie free agents Cole Magner, Romby Bryant and arena leaguer Will Pettis have impressed the coaching staff. The Falcons will save $2 million in salary this season by cutting Price but they will take a $5.7 million hit against the cap next year because his salary-cap figure accelerates. The financial stake with such a move was a key reason the team did not release him earlier this year.

However, the signs of his possible departure have been in the works for months. Following 64 and 45 catch seasons and with the coaching staff expressing concerns with his blocking in the run game, the Falcons selected wide receivers Michael Jenkins and Roddy White in the first round of the past two drafts.

This summer, they publicly declared Price's starting job open for competition then challenged him over offseason drills. They also kept an eye on his behavior, from how he addressed teammates and coaches to how he handled the often-critical media.

Price passed on all counts but was still demoted behind Jenkins when training camp opened. Price never openly complained and was praised for his hard work in practice. In the end, though, he was not deemed a right fit.

[Buzzbee]

You are late SD. Been there. Done that.

http://dynamic.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showpost.php?p=882257&postcount=67


From this thread:

http://dynamic.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showthread.php?t=42160&page=2

[Ben E Lou]

Ah...I see. Peerless deserves his own thread, though. Dadgum Vol.

[Buzzbee]

True dat.

[Franklinnoble]

"I hate y'all," Price said to an AJC photographer, before hustling into his car without further comment.

This cracks me up. :D

I'd love to see video of this...

[HomerJSimpson]

This cracks me up. :D

I'd love to see video of this...


Me, too. That is a classy good-bye. Of course, he was regularly slapped-down by the press, so I can understand the statement.

[Ben E Lou]

he was regularly slapped-down by the press..because he was a bust of monumental proportions.

[Anthony]

..because he was a bust of monumental proportions.

you'd be too if you had a RB throwing to you all game long.

[RendeR]

you'd be too if you had a RB throwing to you all game long.



*Cackles*


Well played, VERY well played...

[HomerJSimpson]

you'd be too if you had a RB throwing to you all game long.


I don't care if it is the punter throwing you the ball, if the ball hits your hands, you are supposed to catch it.

[Ben E Lou]

*Cackles*


Well played, VERY well played...Not really. Two words: Alge Crumpler.

[RendeR]

THe only person who ever thought Peerles Price was a #1 wide receiver was....

Peerless Price.


The rest of the world saw through the bullshit he handed the Bills. I think the Falcons were idiots to have ever considered offering him that much money.

[JonInMiddleGA]

you'd be too if you had a RB throwing to you all game long.

And that's why I approve of the cut while being sorry it needed to happen.

$37m for a WR is wasted money for the Falcons, there's not much point in putting that kind of cash (and cap room) into a position that really isn't utilized.

[RendeR]

Not really. Two words: Alge Crumpler.



Isn't that a smelly sort of seaweed?


Who the hell is Alge Crumpler? I'm guesing he's the tight end, and catching passes as a tight end doesn't prove Vick has the skills as a pass thrower. I could toss 15 yarders to a massive guy in the middle. I mean puhleaze.

See my other post about price though, I won't defend him at all. I'm simply sick to death of "Michael Vick is God" routine. He's the best RB in the NFL, but he's a fairly bad QB.

[flere-imsaho]

Anyone playing a receiver position for the Falcons needs a high "Adjust to Ball" rating. :)

[gstelmack]

See my other post about price though, I won't defend him at all. I'm simply sick to death of "Michael Vick is God" routine. He's the best RB in the NFL, but he's a fairly bad QB.
That's why he's my #1 QB in my fantasy league. Can't have too many RBs on your fantasy roster http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[wbatl1]

Isn't that a smelly sort of seaweed?


Who the hell is Alge Crumpler? I'm guesing he's the tight end, and catching passes as a tight end doesn't prove Vick has the skills as a pass thrower. I could toss 15 yarders to a massive guy in the middle. I mean puhleaze.

See my other post about price though, I won't defend him at all. I'm simply sick to death of "Michael Vick is God" routine. He's the best RB in the NFL, but he's a fairly bad QB.

Problem is Price had way, way too many drops last season when Vick managed to hit him in the hands. I'm talking at least 1-2 a game.

[Poli]

..because he was a bust of monumental proportions.
http://www.jsonline.com/packer/arc/image/tony.jpg

[flere-imsaho]

He's the best RB in the NFL

:confused:

You've got to be kidding me. Do you mean "best" in that being played at QB he's the most dangerous runner out there? Or do you mean that if he started at RB, he'd be the best RB?

If it's the former, you probably have a point. If it's the latter, I seriously doubt it.

[Anthony]

Not really. Two words: Alge Crumpler.

what passer *can't* throw an adequate ball 5-10 yards downfield? in Tennesee guys like Derrick Mason put up some big numebrs the last 3 or 4 years even though TE Frank Wycheck was one of the focal points of the offense.

if you can't throw a 10 yard out pattern to your TE then you should be in a different career. call me when the Falcons offense consists of more than Alge Crumpler and dumping off to Warrick Dunn. :cool:

[Poli]

http://www.sportsattic.com/nflphoto/photos2/Bosworth,Brian1.jpg

Go Sooners.

[RendeR]

:confused:

You've got to be kidding me. Do you mean "best" in that being played at QB he's the most dangerous runner out there? Or do you mean that if he started at RB, he'd be the best RB?

If it's the former, you probably have a point. If it's the latter, I seriously doubt it.


THe fact is, once you have the ball and start running, everyone is a RB. There isn't another player in the league that can touch this guys moves ball-in-hand, period.

He's just can't hit the broad side of a barn from 10 feet away trying to throw it. "Adjust to the ball" rating, no shit, some of his receivers are lucky to still be walking after getting hung out by his passes.

Stick to the ground game Mike, the Falcons will appreciate it ;)

[Ben E Lou]

what passer *can't* throw an adequate ball 5-10 yards downfield?
| 2004 (http://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2004.htm) atl (http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/atl2004.htm) | 14 (http://www.pro-football-reference.com/games/CrumAl00.htm#2004) | 48 774 16.1 6

Alge must have had some incredible YAC, huh? ;)

[Ben E Lou]

Who the hell is Alge Crumpler? A Pro-Bowler. I'm really impressed with your football knowledge. http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

[flere-imsaho]

THe fact is, once you have the ball and start running, everyone is a RB. There isn't another player in the league that can touch this guys moves ball-in-hand, period.

You don't watch Chargers games much, do you? :p

[Franklinnoble]

I like this game, Ardent...

http://img311.imageshack.us/img311/9391/shuler4zj.jpg

[Anthony]

this is what i don't get, and i *really* want to avoid having this become a racial issue:

why is it that Vick has to be a QB? there isn't anyone who will argue that he wouldn't be the best damn RB since Barry Sanders if he were to move to that position. it's almost as if saying Vick isn't a good QB is underhandedly saying black QBs aren't good. he would be more of an asset to his team touching the ball 25 times a game, throwing HB Option passes than having his OC mask his weak passing skills via the gameplan. i don't want to get Rush Limbaugh on you guys here, but does anyone think if Vick were white he'd be a backup on someone's team by now? out of the league? Tim Couch/Cade McNown ring a bell?

my point is this - why is it so wrong to say "Vick should be a RB"? his skills would make him utterly dominant as a RB. why should he be forced to play in a role where he may or may not be using his skills to the best of abilities?

again, i understand it might be hard to keep emotions from getting flared since i brought up the race card, but i honestly want to keep this topic on why he shouldn't be in a different role.

[Franklinnoble]

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8448/leaf9814mm.jpg

The SuperCharger!

[Poli]

I like this game, Ardent...


Only a matter of time.

http://www.sportsattic.com/nflphoto/photos/Bruce,Aundray1.jpg

[jeff061]

Would Vick really be as good as you guys are saying as a 100% RB? He'd be good, but picking and choosing out of the backfield is a bit different than taking a handoff and hitting a gap.

[Poli]

I like this game, Ardent...

http://img311.imageshack.us/img311/9391/shuler4zj.jpg
He was better here:

http://web.knoxnews.com/slideshows/efird/shuler.jpg

Tennessee quarterback Heath Shuler goes airborne for a touchdown during the Louisville game in 1993.

[Poli]

http://smokeys-trail.com/Vols-Merchandise/peyton-manning97.jpg

This guy was OK. I liked Branndon Stewart more, though.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/features/1998/magpreview/images/21-TEXASA&M.JPG

[Poli]

Darn. Stewart is hiding.

[RendeR]

A Pro-Bowler. I'm really impressed with your football knowledge. http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

Hey don't get all pissy with me just because I don't know your team dude =) I don't give a rats buttocks who the Tight End is, he still doesn't make Vick a Valid QB.

Mike is a runner, pure and simple, I'll be really impressed if he ever becomes a true QB and throws the ball more effectively than he runs it.

I love watching the man run, but he makes my skin crawl with his lack of real skill throwing it. he's got a fucking CANNON for an arm, unfortunately the goal of the NFL QB is not to throw the ball THROUGH people. He needs refinement and a serious reigning in of his fight or flight reaction.


And to comment on the San Diego bit: He IS a better natural runner than Tomlinson, but LT would still probably be the better runner if they both had to start out in the I-formation. But taking teh ball in the open field, Nobody touches Vick there.

[VPI97]

my point is this - why is it so wrong to say "Vick should be a RB"? his skills would make him utterly dominant as a RB. why should he be forced to play in a role where he may or may not be using his skills to the best of abilities?He's still learning the pro passing game. When he was at VT, he would have led the nation in pass efficiency if we had thrown the ball enough to get him the required attempts. He's got the arm strength to be a pro quarterback, the rest will come with time.

[RendeR]

If people really want him to be a QB then put in the wishbone offense, he'll dominate every game that way. When he throws the ball, he detracts from the offense.

[Honolulu_Blue]

i don't want to get Rush Limbaugh on you guys here, but does anyone think if Vick were white he'd be a backup on someone's team by now? out of the league? Tim Couch/Cade McNown ring a bell?

I don't think this is a racial issue at all. I think it's pretty much be proven that black athletes can play the QB position (McNabb, Culpepper, etc.). It's a dead issue that was concoctited by small minded people.

If Tim Couch could run the ball as well as Vick he would likely be a starting QB in the league. When you're evaluating a QB you can't simply isolate "throwing" from "running" from "leadership", they are all part of the package.

Jeff061 raises a good point. There is a difference between running the ball as part of scrambling and simply taking the handoff and hitting the hole. Perhaps Vick wouldn't be/isn't any good at that.

[Ben E Lou]

why is it that Vick has to be a QB? there isn't anyone who will argue that he wouldn't be the best damn RB since Barry Sanders if he were to move to that position.I'd argue that he's too small to take the pounding.

it's almost as if saying Vick isn't a good QB is underhandedly saying black QBs aren't good. he would be more of an asset to his team touching the ball 25 times a game, throwing HB Option passes than having his OC mask his weak passing skills via the gameplan. i don't want to get Rush Limbaugh on you guys here, but does anyone think if Vick were white he'd be a backup on someone's team by now? out of the league? Tim Couch/Cade McNown ring a bell?

my point is this - why is it so wrong to say "Vick should be a RB"? his skills would make him utterly dominant as a RB. why should he be forced to play in a role where he may or may not be using his skills to the best of abilities?

again, i understand it might be hard to keep emotions from getting flared since i brought up the race card, but i honestly want to keep this topic on why he shouldn't be in a different role.I don't perceive it as saying that black QBs aren't good, although I do recall you saying that you don't like black QBs.

[Anthony]

He's still learning the pro passing game. When he was at VT, he would have led the nation in pass efficiency if we had thrown the ball enough to get him the required attempts. He's got the arm strength to be a pro quarterback, the rest will come with time.

still learning the pro passing game? dude, he's been in the league, for what? 5 years?

if you ask me, this season is make or break. either he gets it or he doesn't. this will be his 2nd season in a QB-friendly offense (West Coast). now or never.

i like his talent. i saw him live (vs. the Giants in Eli Manning's first start ever), one of the most electrifying players i've ever seen. he's one of the "everyone holds their breath as soon as he takes off" kind of players. why not just make him a full time runner and maximize the entertainment value and maximize their chances of winning? i want to like Vick because of the way he runs, but him as a passer...no, i'm just not seeing it.

[jeff061]

I think he'd make a better kick/punt returner than a RB.

[JasonC23]

If Dez White beats you out for a starting WR spot...

...you really really really really suck.

[Anthony]

I don't perceive it as saying that black QBs aren't good, although I do recall you saying that you don't like black QBs.

i don't like black QBs because they don't go through their progressions enough. i saw a game on tv, forget which one it was - Culpepper or McNabb - and he literally held the ball for about 2 seconds before taking off. 2 seconds. granted, he might have seen an opening that i didn't see from the camera's angle, but c'mon man, hold the thing a little longer!

i like Steve McNair, fwiw. to me he's the black version of my favorite QB of all time - Steve Young. they both scrambled when the play broke down, and not a second sooner. that's when i don't mind QB's who run. QB's who scramble should do so to *save* a play, not *make* a play.

again, i don't want this to devolve into white vs. black QB, just want to hear why it's so taboo to say Vick should be a RB.

[HomerJSimpson]

I think he'd make a better kick/punt returner than a RB.


He really would be amazing in that role. He is even better in the role he is playing now, though.

[Ben E Lou]

Just found this...my thoughts haven't changed....

<table class="tborder" align="center" border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody><tr><td class="thead" style="font-weight: normal;">../../%7Efof/forums/images/styles/yellow/statusicon/post_old.gif 01-17-2005, 02:56 PM <!-- / status icon and date --> </td> <td class="thead" style="font-weight: normal;" align="right"> #70 (../../%7Efof/forums/showpost.php?p=679644&postcount=70) </td> </tr> <tr valign="top"> <td class="alt2" width="175"> SkyDog (../../%7Efof/forums/member.php?u=59) <script type="text/javascript"> vbmenu_register("postmenu_679644", true); </script>
H.N.I.C.

Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Tucker, GA
Posts: 12,666
../../%7Efof/forums/images/styles/yellow/misc//im_aim.gif (../../%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=34691&page=2&pp=50&highlight=vick+development+mcnabb#) ../../%7Efof/forums/images/styles/yellow/misc//im_msn.gif (../../%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=34691&page=2&pp=50&highlight=vick+development+mcnabb#)

</td> <td class="alt1"> <!-- message --> Quote:
<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" width="100%"> <tbody><tr> <td class="alt2" style="border: 1px inset ;"> Originally Posted by Buccaneer
Do you think he could be a 2000-yd rusher at RB?
</td> </tr> </tbody></table>
Not unless he had the greatest offensive line in the world. I don't even see him getting 1,500 as a RB. You can only run the toss sweep so many times a game. Vick gets his yards because he has space to operate, whether on the bootleg, or on the scramble. Clearly his best assets as a runner are his quick feet, which give him the ability to juke and outrun. He wouldn't be nearly as effective between the tackles on traditional running plays. Credit Mora and Knapp for having the flexibility to continue to refine a system that uses him as a decoy more than an actual runner. Let's not forget that he only ran 8 times on Saturday night. I doubt he had more than 2 or 3 games this year that he had more than 10 carries, even including scrambles--which he had to do a good bit, due to the piss-poor pass protection he is given.
</td></tr></tbody> </table>

[HomerJSimpson]

If Dez White beats you out for a starting WR spot...

...you really really really really suck.


No joke, but really Dez White is a place-holder for Rod White. I imagine Rod will be starting by week 6 or so, and Dez may be replaced by Finneran by week 3.

[jeff061]

I agree. As long as he holds up physically I don't think he'll ever need to be a great passer. With everyone on the defense worried about him he'llk make everyone else on his side of the line better, no matter if he ends up looking good or bad. He also seems to be a great and respected figure in the locker room.

[Poli]

http://www.kstatecollegian.com/issues/v104/fa/holiday/pix/michaelbishop.jpg


Michael Bishop was the man. Too bad Branndon and Sirr beat him down.

[jeff061]

Michael Bishop. Hehe.

/Patriots Fan.

[Karlifornia]

Hell Atlantic..Steve Young started out poorly, but then look what happened....

[Poli]

http://images.dvdempire.com/gen/movies/50630h.jpg

What a great movie.

[Poli]

Hell Atlantic..Steve Young started out poorly, but then look what happened....He started with the Buccaneers, which was his problem. :)

http://augustasports.com/images/headlines/102899/49ers__young.jpg

[Honolulu_Blue]

i don't like black QBs because they don't go through their progressions enough. i saw a game on tv, forget which one it was - Culpepper or McNabb - and he literally held the ball for about 2 seconds before taking off. 2 seconds. granted, he might have seen an opening that i didn't see from the camera's angle, but c'mon man, hold the thing a little longer!

i like Steve McNair, fwiw. to me he's the black version of my favorite QB of all time - Steve Young. they both scrambled when the play broke down, and not a second sooner. that's when i don't mind QB's who run. QB's who scramble should do so to *save* a play, not *make* a play.

again, i don't want this to devolve into white vs. black QB, just want to hear why it's so taboo to say Vick should be a RB.
You're the only one who is discussing race at all. There is no devloving of this discussion other than in your own head.

The reasons it's "so taboo" to say Vick should be a RB is based on his apparent skill set and what others have said above. His running style doesn't seem all that suited for your traditional RB. It has nothing to do with his race.

[capsicum]

After reading all this all I can say is, Damn I miss Fran Tarkenton & Robert smith , the best "scrambler and Runnig back of all time :D" I admit to certain prejudices tho...

[capsicum]

And as for Black QB's Warren Moon was pretty dang good for awhile too! 9 time Pro Bowler..."And of course a former viking"

[Franklinnoble]

We all know Doug Williams of the Washington Redskins is the greatest black QB of all time (and the only one to be named Super Bowl MVP).

[Poli]

http://www.itsalreadysigned4u.com/shop/media/images/product_category/FRT-08PHWAL650.jpg

Greatest QB of ALL TIME.

[capsicum]

We all know Doug Williams of the Washington Redskins is the greatest black QB of all time (and the only one to be named Super Bowl MVP).
Would you look at that!!! A flamming REDSKINS fan, now that should be a bannable offense ;-)

[Anthony]

You're the only one who is discussing race at all. There is no devloving of this discussion other than in your own head.



you must be new around these parts. things around here have a tendency to go south VERY quickly. just trying to steer the conversation away from the muck with some comments i made that could make my intentions misunderstood.

[Barkeep49]

We all know Doug Williams of the Washington Redskins is the greatest black QB of all time (and the only one to be named Super Bowl MVP).
I'd take Steve McNair over Williams.

[Honolulu_Blue]

you must be new around these parts. things around here have a tendency to go south VERY quickly. just trying to steer the conversation away from the muck with some comments i made that could make my intentions misunderstood.
Yeah, real new 'round these here parts, chief.

I know how folks roll around here, but I just thought it was funny that you were the only one focusing on race in this entire thread and kept bringing it up again and again only to keep saying that you didn't want to it "devolve" into a discussion about race.

That said, I do understand the need for disclaimers and the want with things so easily mis-undestood when one engages in any sort of "e-discussion", the second one just didn't seem all that warranted is all.

[JonInMiddleGA]

you must be new around these parts. things around here have a tendency to go south VERY quickly. just trying to steer the conversation away from the muck with some comments i made that could make my intentions misunderstood.

Take it from me HA, those "misunderstandings" are going to happen whenever people want them to happen, no matter how hard you try to avoid them. After quite a while of trying to head them off at the pass with limited success, I'm currently leaning more toward the "don't-give-them-any-ideas" approach & only discussing the misinterpretations as they come up.

[Poli]

http://www.collectr.com/fb/images/fpwarea.jpg

This guy was pretty good.

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 bgColor=white border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>http://uhletterwinners.com/files/IGIBP00000/107.jpg</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

So was this guy.

[Poli]

http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nfl/stlrams/Lphillipsstl.JPG

I'm a sucker for great running backs, though.

[Franklinnoble]

I'd take Steve McNair over Williams.
I'd take the Super Bowl ring.

[WSUCougar]

You guys would seriously take those two over Warren Moon? WOW

[Poli]

<TABLE width=400><TBODY><TR><TD>http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/heisman/news/2000/09/24/charlie_ward/lg_ward_all-01.jpg (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/heisman/news/2000/09/24/charlie_ward)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

I got dibs.

[mhass]

I wanna play..


http://imagecache2.allposters.com/images/80/031_1158.jpg

[Franklinnoble]

You guys would seriously take those two over Warren Moon? WOW
No, not seriously. Moon may have been the greatest passer of all time.

[Travis]

No, not seriously. Moon may have been the greatest passer of all time.

And we're still damn grateful that we got to have him up here for a few years before he got into the NFL. Still try to catch any Classic game they air from when he was with the Eskimos. Hoping that McFarlane will include him in a future Legends NFL series.

[rkmsuf]

Nothing was better than Ernest Givens and the Electric Slide.

[miked]

http://www.sportsposterwarehouse.com/warehouse/biakabatuka96sl-1.jpg

http://images.art.com/images/PRODUCTS/large/10003000/10003152.jpg

Two of my all-time fav busts.

[wade moore]

So to the original point...

I still stand by the fact that Price is unfairly bashed. I'm trying to find stats, but no one seems to show drops.. I find it VERY hard to believe he had 1-2 drops a game...

Anyway.. maybe he was not suited to be a #1, but I think it is silly to think he is not a very solid #2... and he proved it in Buffalo..

Then again, maybe I'm just a Vols apologist.

[Poli]

I know I am. :)

[Poli]

http://www.sportsecyclopedia.com/nfl/tenhou/HjeffriesOil.jpg

In all honesty, when I think of someone who dropped passes, I think of Haywood.

[QuikSand]

Interesting ideas of NFL busts here.

Seems to me that Price is a different sort of bust than many of the guys being bandied about -- he was, after all, good enough (or at least he performed well enough) in his first few seasons to receive a second NFL contract with a $10 million signing bonus. It's not like he got drafted with big fanfare and expectations, and then never delivered anything (the more tyipcal NFL bust scenario).

[gstelmack]

http://www.sportsposterwarehouse.com/warehouse/biakabatuka96sl-1.jpg
Are we counting injury busts? Because Biakabutuka had some fantastic games, but injuries killed his career. He showed some definite flashes of brilliance before the injuries, though.

[Poli]

Is that a prostetic leg?

[WSUCougar]

Are we counting injury busts? Because Biakabutuka had some fantastic games, but injuries killed his career. He showed some definite flashes of brilliance before the injuries, though.
I was thinking the same thing. I don't consider him a bust.

Lawrence Phillips, on the other hand, is a bust and is busted.

[JonInMiddleGA]

http://sports.iwon.com/nfl/stats/league/passesdropped.html

Price had 5 drops according to this (no idea how complete/incomplete or accurate/inaccurate this is), the same number as Alge Crumpler.

If you go one stat beyond that, to "Passes Not Caught", then Price is indeed a prime offender, with 61, 5th most in the NFC (L.Coles, D.Jackson, M.Muhammad, and R.Williams all had more in the conference, as did 7 in the AFC including J.Porter, D.Bennett, and D.Mason).

I figure some of that number has to do with being the intended receiver though, so just for the heck of it ...
Price = 106 targeted/61 not caught/5 drops
T.Owens = 127 targeted/50 not caught/7 drops

[wade moore]

http://sports.iwon.com/nfl/stats/league/passesdropped.html

Price had 5 drops according to this (no idea how complete/incomplete or accurate/inaccurate this is), the same number as Alge Crumpler.

If you go one stat beyond that, to "Passes Not Caught", then Price is indeed a prime offender, with 61, 5th most in the NFC (L.Coles, D.Jackson, M.Muhammad, and R.Williams all had more in the conference, as did 7 in the AFC including J.Porter, D.Bennett, and D.Mason).

I figure some of that number has to do with being the intended receiver though, so just for the heck of it ...
Price = 106 targeted/61 not caught/5 drops
T.Owens = 127 targeted/50 not caught/7 drops
Which would tend to support my argument, I think, that he is a very good #2.. just not a very good #1...

[WSUCougar]

Well everyone knows that Vick is a Cancer (born 06/26/1980) and Price is a Scorpio (born 10/27/1976). That's got "conflict" written all over it.

[HomerJSimpson]

Interesting ideas of NFL busts here.

Seems to me that Price is a different sort of bust than many of the guys being bandied about -- he was, after all, good enough (or at least he performed well enough) in his first few seasons to receive a second NFL contract with a $10 million signing bonus. It's not like he got drafted with big fanfare and expectations, and then never delivered anything (the more tyipcal NFL bust scenario).


I think he is a bust in the "paid too much for what he is" way. Not in the "he was supposed to be a NFL player and he is really a grocery-store bagger" way.

[VPI97]

I figure some of that number has to do with being the intended receiver though, so just for the heck of it ...
Price = 106 targeted/61 not caught/5 drops
T.Owens = 127 targeted/50 not caught/7 drops
Here's a complete list: http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/wr.php

Out of the 84 wideouts who had 50 passes thrown their way in 2004, Peerless tied for 82nd in terms of percentage of passes completed at 42%. Before anyone blames Vick for the low number, you should also realize that Dez White was at 54%, Brian Finneran at 70%, Alge Crumpler at 65% and Dunn was at 74% (mid level for a HB)

[Poli]

Interesting ideas of NFL busts here.

Seems to me that Price is a different sort of bust than many of the guys being bandied about -- he was, after all, good enough (or at least he performed well enough) in his first few seasons to receive a second NFL contract with a $10 million signing bonus. It's not like he got drafted with big fanfare and expectations, and then never delivered anything (the more tyipcal NFL bust scenario).
http://www.buffalobills.com/photos/robjohnson1104.jpg

[JonInMiddleGA]

Here's a complete list: http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/wr.php


Thanks, I just used the one I found first (I remember having all sorts of problems finding stats like drops on a couple of previous tries, was just happy to have found some at all).

[wade moore]

Here's a complete list: http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/wr.php

Out of the 84 wideouts who had 50 passes thrown their way in 2004, Peerless tied for 82nd in terms of percentage of passes completed at 42%. Before anyone blames Vick for the low number, you should also realize that Dez White was at 54%, Brian Finneran at 70%, Alge Crumpler at 65% and Dunn was at 74% (mid level for a HB)
But someone else pointed to a key factor...

Vick threw short to White, Finneran, Crumpler, and Dunn... I imagine he threw many more long passes to Price...

Besides.. he always had the #1 Corner on him...

Here:

2000 (r) - 49.1%
2001 - 49.5%
2002 - 64%
2003 - 45%
2004 - 42%

Hmmm...

Seems like I've proven myself wrong.

So... I guess I have no defense for this Vol :(...

[Poli]

http://www.allposters.com/IMAGES/151/1055X.jpg

I never understood why he got work as a quarterback.

[Kodos]

Glad to see the Falcons get rid of Price. Never liked him much.

[Franklinnoble]

http://www.allposters.com/IMAGES/151/1055X.jpg

I never understood why he got work as a quarterback.
No kidding. What was Pittsburgh thinking? For Kordell's entire career, you've got Doug Flutie bouncing around begging for a starting job (just to name one decent QB off the top of my head that wasn't starting while Kordell was playing), and somehow, Stewart was "the man" in Steeltown for years, it seems...

[capsicum]

I think he is a bust in the "paid too much for what he is" way. Not in the "he was supposed to be a NFL player and he is really a grocery-store bagger" way.



After reading this quote the first player to pop into my head was Herschel Walker.....Boy I dont know to many vikings fans that still arent bitter over THAT fiasco in the vikings history.

[Poli]

I thought about old Herschel.

[Franklinnoble]

Despite my best efforts, I can't manage to find a picture of Herschel on a bobsled... ;)

[BigJohn&TheLions]

Any Falcon fan down on Mike Vick should try having Harrington as their starting QB.

SD... Good play. I think Vick is easily the best running QB in the league, but that doesn't mean he'd even be a good RB. I would like to see them run a few more trick plays though. What would a defense do if they saw Vick line up as a slot receiver in a game?

[flere-imsaho]

And to comment on the San Diego bit: He IS a better natural runner than Tomlinson, but LT would still probably be the better runner if they both had to start out in the I-formation. But taking teh ball in the open field, Nobody touches Vick there.

Everyone saying Vick would be a great RB is basing their conclusions on false data. The false data is watching Vick when he takes off to scramble. Why is this false?

Because the field is utterly different when you're a QB scrambling vs. a RB taking a handoff.

A QB scrambling likely already has the safeties and the corners downfield, covering receivers. The SLB (or whomever is covering the TE) is also likely out of position. Furthermore, members of the defense have to continue to cover their marks until the QB crosses the line of scrimmage.

Compare this to a RB who's taken a handoff. While the corners may be otherwise engaged, the safeties are going to react fast, and those linebackers should already be in position (though the TE should be holding them off).

Everyone gets real excited watching Vick as an open-field runner. And he is exciting, and certainly an exceptional running talent. But a RB getting the handoff and executing a running play is a completely different scenario.

[Poli]

http://www.northviewathletics.org/NYAAmain/images/pwswingpo.jpg

I think it would look something like this.

[VPI97]

Because the field is utterly different when you're a QB scrambling vs. a RB taking a handoff.
.
.
Everyone gets real excited watching Vick as an open-field runner. And he is exciting, and certainly an exceptional running talent. But a RB getting the handoff and executing a running play is a completely different scenario.
Exactly...it's the equivalent of saying that Bryant Westbrook or Domanick Davis would be good starting wide receivers in the NFL just because of their catch numbers out of the backfield. Totally different situations.

[Travis]

It's an odd parallel, but this was why the Seahawks were experimenting with Seneca Wallace as a return man in the offseason.

Had he not shown the strides he did to cement himself as the #2 QB in Seattle this year, he'd likely be the #3 QB as well as either the primary or secondary KR/PR on the team because of his running ability. He's not quite as fast or as good of a juker as Vick is in the open field, but he is pretty damn good.

That said, I'm very happy that he's proving that he's picking up the offense and becoming a legitimate quarterback. Seeing him break out of a broken play or a sure sack and not immediately looking to run is really encouraging. He can still take off and fly when he wants to, but it seems like his mind has finally clicked into exhausting all other options before tucking and running.

[TheOhioStateUniversity]

Is this guy HA serious with the I dont like black quarterbacks because Bs....uh okkk. Anyway Vick is not your prototypical kill you with the arm dropback QB but because of his running ability and cannon arm (not particularly accurate) he should be given every chance to start. I mean are you telling me they are going to find someone else that can match his (estimation)70% winning percentage when hes the starting quarterback. That stat alone should shut up all the haters.

[zums]

http://huskerj.com/SI/SI95FrazierFBowl.jpg

[Hurst2112]

http://huskerj.com/SI/SI95FrazierFBowl.jpg

It's not his fault. He had blood clots!

;)

[zums]

It's not his fault. He had blood clots!

;)



yeah it really is sad, for as much as i hated nebraska, tommie frazier gave me such a hard on as a kid..... the clots were the worst part cuz i think he definitely coulda been successful in the pros, he was much more than just an "option" qb

-zums

[jeff061]

Is this guy HA serious with the I dont like black quarterbacks because Bs....uh okkk. Anyway Vick is not your prototypical kill you with the arm dropback QB but because of his running ability and cannon arm (not particularly accurate) he should be given every chance to start. I mean are you telling me they are going to find someone else that can match his (estimation)70% winning percentage when hes the starting quarterback. That stat alone should shut up all the haters.


My thoughts exactly. All the guy does is win and rally the troops.

[Anthony]

My thoughts exactly. All the guy does is win and rally the troops.

...and gets hurt, can't play full seasons and is a stat-hog.

why pass the ball when you can keep it, scramble for a 20 yard td and get more endorsements? :confused:

[jeff061]

I like how you extrapolate a single occurence as if it has happened several times. If it happens again in the next 5 years I'll agree.

As far as being a ball hog, who cares? He runs the plays he's told to and wins games with how he executes them.

[Anthony]

1. has played in 43 of a possible 64 games
2. has never had a 3,000 yard passing season
3. has never had a 20+ passing td season (most was 16)

if by "running the plays he's told to", i highly doubt his OC tells him to check off on his primary receiver and if that target isn't open he should tuck it in and run it in himself.

[jeff061]

I wouldn't be surprised if they told him to run it more than you'd expect.

Anyways, bottom line, their record with him and without him speaks for itself. This argument isn't going anywhere.

[Ben E Lou]

1. has played in 43 of a possible 64 games
2. has never had a 3,000 yard passing season
3. has never had a 20+ passing td season (most was 16)

if by "running the plays he's told to", i highly doubt his OC tells him to check off on his primary receiver and if that target isn't open he should tuck it in and run it in himself.Actually, I'd have to double-check, but I'm pretty sure I read at one point last season that he was being that he needed to run more.

As far as stats, the only one that matters to me is that we win a lot more when he's under center than when he's not--feels like more than we ever have in the 30 years I've followed the Birds.

[jeff061]

Yes, I am pretty sury I remember Mora saying he needs to run more. But didn't feel like looking for a source so I didn't mention it :).

[jeff061]

I'm probably the only one, but I see Brady like intangibles with Vick. Maybe that's why I'm a fan.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm probably the only one, but I see Brady like intangibles with Vick. Maybe that's why I'm a fan.
Almost Brady-like. Almost. The only real way to get full Brady-like intangibles is through proper schooling at The University of Michigan. Now, granted, not every athlete or student who attends the esteemed university graduates with these intangibles, but it is a prerequisite.

[TheOhioStateUniversity]

HA if Mike Vick has an injury filled career then your argument will make more sense. We dont know that yet so the stuff about stats is really pointless. Who cares what his stats are if the team is winning 70% of the games in which he is the starting quarterback. How can you even continue to argue. Its like you are so stuck on the way you think things should be done or have been done in the past. He is not your prototypical quarterback but obviously his approach seems to be working.

[ISiddiqui]

HA if Mike Vick has an injury filled career then your argument will make more sense. We dont know that yet so the stuff about stats is really pointless. Who cares what his stats are if the team is winning 70% of the games in which he is the starting quarterback. How can you even continue to argue. Its like you are so stuck on the way you think things should be done or have been done in the past. He is not your prototypical quarterback but obviously his approach seems to be working.
Bingo. One season wiped out by injury doesn't make Vick an injury prone QB (remember he didn't play much during his rookie year... well, because he was a rookie). He just wins and isn't that what the game is about? In the two season he's started more than 4 games, the Falcons have gone to the playoffs. Most people will take that as a successful QB.

[Karlifornia]

I know it doesn't fit in with the theme, but:

http://servercc.oakton.edu/~billtong/bnsp/chmura.jpg


To the tune of 'My Sharona'

Ooh, Chmura, you had some fun, a little fun
Now you're gonna do some jail time, Chmura
Ooh, your motor mouth did run, jumped the gun
Tryin' to toe the right wing line, Chmura

Guess he couldn't stop, messed it up, such a dirty mind
He tried to rough it up with the young jailbaiting kind
My, my, my, my, my, whoa!
M-m-m-Mark Chmura

Look a little closer, huh, a-will ya, huh?
Hypocrisy's what we despise, Chmura
Look back at his history, and you will see
Attacked our President with lies, Chmura

Guess he couldn't stop, messed it up, such a dirty mind
He tried to rough it up with the young jailbaiting kind
My, my, my, my, my, whoa!
M-m-m-Mark Chmura

M-m-m-Mark Chmura
Where is his apology, apology?
For spreading all that right wing slime, Chmura?
P-p-penitentiary, we foresee

Just stick to football games, do you mind, Chmura?
Guess he couldn't stop, messed it up, such a dirty mind
He tried to rough it up with the young jailbaiting kind
My, my, my, my, my, whoa!
M-m-m-Mark Chmura

M-m-m-m-m-m-m-my, my, my, my, my, whoa!
M-m-m-Mark Chmura
M-m-m-Mark Chmura
M-m-m-Mark Chmura
M-m-m-Mark Chmura

(lead guitar solo)

Ooooooo-ohhh, Mark Chmura!
Ooooooo-ohhh, Mark Chmura!
Ooooooo-ohhh, Mark Chmura!

[FBPro]

HA if Mike Vick has an injury filled career then your argument will make more sense. We dont know that yet so the stuff about stats is really pointless. Who cares what his stats are if the team is winning 70% of the games in which he is the starting quarterback. How can you even continue to argue. Its like you are so stuck on the way you think things should be done or have been done in the past. He is not your prototypical quarterback but obviously his approach seems to be working.
Concur, I mean every game that I watch Vick play TO ME it is obvious that he doesn't give a flying F.... about stats. He doesn't care if he is 20-22 for 400 yards or 7-18 for 114 yards as long as the Falcons win the game. For he and the Falcon's coaching staff and ownership THAT is the bottom line. Winning games.

[Chubby]

Iloved that Price to Atl trade when it happened and I love it more now :D

[Pacersfan46]

Price needs to come to the Colts. Not for this year, but for next year when we can't afford Reggie Wayne. He'd be a nice #2 behind Harrison. Especially with Peyton throwing him the ball.

Not that I see it happening ... but hey .... I'd like to get Corey Simon in a Colts uniform even more. :)

Edit: Holy crap, I looked it up and the Colts actually contacted him. I think we'll have to have someone restructure their contract to get him here though .... good luck with that. They also said the Ravens were in the running. For gods sakes, how much defense does 1 team need?

[Philliesfan980]

Eagles might have gotten a little too "We don't need you, and we'll show you" (thats the approach they normally take), with Simon. He's a hell of a player and a difference maker. They're going to miss him. I really hope they use the money for just as valuable as a purpose.

[Raven]

Falcons fans,
What's the deal with Michael Jenkins? Is he a starter now, and how is he looking in preseason?

I'm asking for fantasy purposes.

[HomerJSimpson]

Falcons fans,
What's the deal with Michael Jenkins? Is he a starter now, and how is he looking in preseason?

I'm asking for fantasy purposes.


Jenkins is the starter, and he is looking good so far. He is a good late round gamble, but he is still a gamble.

[Ksyrup]

<TABLE width=400><TBODY><TR><TD>http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/heisman/news/2000/09/24/charlie_ward/lg_ward_all-01.jpg (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/college/heisman/news/2000/09/24/charlie_ward)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

I got dibs.
Charlie Ward wasn't an NFL bust. He wasn't even an NFL talent. His options were the NBA or the CFL. He chose wisely.

He's no bust, though.

[ThunderingHERD]

Does this make him Careerless Price?

(didn't rtft)

[korme]

http://images.art.com/images/PRODUCTS/large/10003000/10003152.jpg

Two of my all-time fav busts.
Took way too long for a Ki-jana sighting.

Oh, and btw, anyone who thinks Michael Vick would be a good HB is absolutely crazy.

[cody8200]

Antwaan Randle El was hands down a better college QB and would still run circles around Vick if he had gotten the chance. It didnt hurt that he ran a 4.3. ESPN named him the most electrifying player to ever play college football. If you had ever seen him live, you would see its true. Oh well, no reason to bitch about that. At least he'll finally be starting this year.

[Raiders Army]

I think Vick would make a better receiver. There have been a lot of guys who were QBs in college and were converted.

[Kodos]

Antwaan Randle El was hands down a better college QB and would still run circles around Vick if he had gotten the chance. It didnt hurt that he ran a 4.3. ESPN named him the most electrifying player to ever play college football. If you had ever seen him live, you would see its true. Oh well, no reason to bitch about that. At least he'll finally be starting this year.

Watching Randle El was a real treat for IU Football fans who have suffered since Bill Mallory left.

[Daimyo]

Michael Vick is not a good passer, but I don't think you can succesfully argue that he's a bad quarterback. I think this is a good move for the Falcons because a deep threat isn't really worth the money for them given Vick's passing issues, but I also expect Price to catch on somewhere else and be a very productive #2 WR.

[Ben E Lou]

I just checked some stats..and they actually reveal one generally-accepted "truth" about Vick was actually a complete myth, and least in 2004...

Passer Rating: Vick (78.06) was below the NFL average (82.86) in 2004. No surprise there.

Completion Percentage: Vick (56.39) was below the average (59.79). Again, no surprise.

Yards Per Attempt: Here's where the surprises begin. Vick (7.206) was above the NFL average.

Yards Per Completion: Here's what may be a shocker to some, Vick's 12.78 average was well above the NFL's 11.79 average in 2004.

Without YAC numbers, we can't be sure, but those numbers sure appear to indicate that Price was playing in a system where the QB threw down the field more often than the norm.

[HomerJSimpson]

I just checked some stats..and they actually reveal one generally-accepted "truth" about Vick was actually a complete myth, and least in 2004...

Passer Rating: Vick (78.06) was below the NFL average (82.86) in 2004. No surprise there.

Completion Percentage: Vick (56.39) was below the average (59.79). Again, no surprise.

Yards Per Attempt: Here's where the surprises begin. Vick (7.206) was above the NFL average.

Yards Per Completion: Here's what may be a shocker to some, Vick's 12.78 average was well above the NFL's 11.79 average in 2004.

Without YAC numbers, we can't be sure, but those numbers sure appear to indicate that Price was playing in a system where the QB threw down the field more often than the norm.

He definitely makes longer then average completions. The reason is because of the real reason his completion percentage is so low: he has yet to learn to put "touch" on shorter passes. His arm is very strong, and really not inaccurate, it is more he just throws too hard.

[JasonC23]

Craig Krenzel won his first 3 NFL starts.

I'm just sayin'...

[Kodos]

I watched NFL Network's: "In Their Own Words: Jerry Rice" last night. I'm not exaggerating when I say that almost half of the highlight footage they showed came against the Falcons. Of course, I loved it, because I got to see the wonder old red unis with the classic Falcon logo. Those were beauts. Today's Falcon unis are dreadful.

[JeeberD]

Price has been in Dallas the past couple of days talking to the Cowboys...

[QuikSand]

I watched NFL Network's: "In Their Own Words: Jerry Rice" last night. I'm not exaggerating when I say that almost half of the highlight footage they showed came against the Falcons.

Long live Charles Dimry!

[Ben E Lou]

Charles DimryThat name is a cuss word where I come from. :mad:

[Surtt]

Shouldn't it be "Falcons finally fish?"

[gstelmack]

I watched NFL Network's: "In Their Own Words: Jerry Rice" last night. I'm not exaggerating when I say that almost half of the highlight footage they showed came against the Falcons. Of course, I loved it, because I got to see the wonder old red unis with the classic Falcon logo. Those were beauts. Today's Falcon unis are dreadful.
And whenever they show Barry Sanders highlights, most of them are against the Bucs...

[Franklinnoble]

And whenever they show Barry Sanders highlights, most of them are against the Bucs...

And whenever they show Emmitt Smith highlights, most of them are against the Redskins... http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/mad.gifhttp://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/mad.gifhttp://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/mad.gif

[gottimd]

And whenever they show Scott Norwood highlights, it's against the Giants.

[Cuckoo]

Price has been in Dallas the past couple of days talking to the Cowboys...

Dallas Morning News reports the Cowboys offered him a contract, but he turned it down. Hopefully, it wasn't a very big one.

Granted, I don't know a ton about Price, but I don't really see how he fits in with the Cowboys other than the obvious Bledsoe connection. Johnson and Glenn are the clear 1 and 2. That Patrick Crayton kid has earned the 3rd job and has looked outstanding. And Quincy Morgan is struggling to make the team as the 4 guy.

Is Price really that much better than Morgan to qualify giving him a significant amount more money? If so, that cuts Morgan from the team. Then, is Price willing to live with the fact that he's a 4 receiver, 3 at best.

Just doesn't seem like a good fit to me.

[A-Husker-4-Life]

http://huskerj.com/SI/SI95FrazierFBowl.jpg

I know its been said already but he was no bust, you have to make it to the NFL first. Tommy had blood clots that made it impossible for him to join the league.

[cthomer5000]

Cowboys beat Patriots, Dolphins, Saints to Price

<!-- end pagetitle --> <!-- begin bylinebox --> By John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com

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Related Video:
Dallas Defeats Seattle 18-10 http://espn-att.starwave.com/i/m_watch.gif (javascript:void(0);)


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</td><td width="65">http://espn.starwave.com/i/nfl/profiles/players/statsid/s4703.jpg</td></tr><tr><td width="2">
</td><td width="65">Price</td></tr></tbody> </table> The Dallas Cowboys (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=dal) won the Peerless Price (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=4703) sweepstakes Saturday, reaching agreement on a one-year contract worth $2 million.

The Cowboys beat out the Patriots, Dolphins and Saints in a competitive couple days of recruiting and negotiating with Price, who was released by the Atlanta Falcons (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=atl) in the cutdown to 65 earlier in the week.

<!---------------------INLINE TABLE (BEGIN)-------------------->

<table id="inlinetable" align="right" border="0" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="240"> <tbody><tr><th colspan="1" style="background-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><center>Cutdown day, plus a trade</center></th> </tr><tr style="background-color: rgb(236, 236, 236);" valign="top"> <td width="224"> IRVING, Texas -- In addition to Peerless Price, the Cowboys have another newcomer -- linebacker Scott Fujita (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6029), who was acquired from Kansas City for a sixth-round draft choice in 2006 and a conditional pick in 2007. Fujita has started 41 of the Chiefs' last 43 games on the strong side and led the team in tackles the last two years. Cowboys coach Bill Parcells has been concerned about depth at linebacker as the team converts to a 3-4 formation.

The most notable Cowboys among the 15 released Saturday were offensive linemen Kurt Vollers (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6276) and Tyson Walter (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6075), defensive tackle Leo Carson, deep snapper Jeff Robinson (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=2502) and safety Lynn Scott (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5712), whose departure leaves only two safeties -- starters Roy Williams (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5894) and Keith Davis (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6269).

The release of Vollers and Walter was a surprise because both were mentioned as top backups at multiple spots. Carson started 15 games last season but was squeezed out by the arrival of Jason Ferguson (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=4029) and the change to a three-man line. Robinson's job went to Jon Condo, one of 10 rookies to make the club.

Rookie safety Justin Beriault (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7384) and second-year linebacker Kalen Thornton were put on injured reserve. Both have knee problems, with Beriault's likely requiring surgery.

Those relieved to make it include running back Marion Barber (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7285) III, fullback Lousaka Polite (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7162) and offensive lineman Ben Noll (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7050). Jose Cortez (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5015) goes in as the kicker, although Parcells has repeatedly warned that's subject to change.

Veterans released included linebacker Keith O'Neil (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6623), recently added safety Rich Coady (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=4718) and safety Woody Dantzler.
-- Associated Press


</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <!---------------------INLINE TABLE (END)--------------------> On Friday, the numbers were at the $1.5 million level. The Cowboys finished the negotiations Saturday afternoon by offering the wide receiver $2 million for the season, including $500,000 in a signing bonus.

While the money was a factor in Price's decision, since Dallas' offer was considerably more than the other proposals he received, Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=2359) should get credit for an assist in helping to get Price to sign.

Bledsoe has been essentially recruiting Price by phone for more than a month. The two played together in Buffalo, where the receiver was successful as the No. 2 option behind starter Eric Moulds (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=3510). Bledsoe has stayed in close contact for much of the offseason, or ever since it became apparent Price's days in Atlanta were numbered.

The quarterback clearly believes that Price, who had a career-best season in 2002 (94 catches, 1,252 yards, nine touchdowns) when Bledsoe was throwing to him, is salvageable. Others around the league who feel Price still has quick feet but has lost some speed -- he was never as straight-line fast as some people claimed he was -- aren't quite as sure. But Bledsoe has lobbied owner Jerry Jones and coach Bill Parcells hard to bring Price aboard, probably as the No. 3 receiver behind starters Keyshawn Johnson (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=3499) and Terry Glenn (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=3515).

Price sat in Jones' owners box during the Cowboys' preseason finale against the Texans. Price had just visited with the Patriots and Dolphins, but the Cowboys continued pitching their team and Parcells.

Interestingly, Price told friends of his failed two-year tenure in Atlanta that he might never have approved the 2003 trade to the Falcons had he known he was "going to Nebraska." It was an allusion to the fact that, even with Michael Vick (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5448) as the starting quarterback, a guy with whom Price desperately wanted to play when the deal was made, the Falcons are a run-first offense. The irony is that, in signing with the Cowboys, he will be going to an offense that is likewise run-oriented and in which second-year running back Julius Jones (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6802) figures to be the centerpiece.

Patrick Crayton (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6975) had beaten out Quincy Morgan (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5480) for the No. 3 role, but that goes to Price unless he gets the opportunity to start.

Morgan might be among the team's final cuts.

[ISiddiqui]

Price is a moron... "going to Nebraska". What, did he think he was going to play "Run and Shoot" with Reeves as coach?!

[FBPro]

I just checked some stats..and they actually reveal one generally-accepted "truth" about Vick was actually a complete myth, and least in 2004...

Passer Rating: Vick (78.06) was below the NFL average (82.86) in 2004. No surprise there.

Completion Percentage: Vick (56.39) was below the average (59.79). Again, no surprise.

Yards Per Attempt: Here's where the surprises begin. Vick (7.206) was above the NFL average.

Yards Per Completion: Here's what may be a shocker to some, Vick's 12.78 average was well above the NFL's 11.79 average in 2004.

Without YAC numbers, we can't be sure, but those numbers sure appear to indicate that Price was playing in a system where the QB threw down the field more often than the norm.
Good stuff.....

[VPI97]

The Falcons may have passed the ball more if Price would have been worth a damn when he got to Atlanta. Instead, once he got his money, he quit trying.

[Ben E Lou]

Me, too. That is a classy good-bye. Of course, he was regularly slapped-down by the press, so I can understand the statement....and they continue to slap him down, even after he's gone.

From today's AJC (on the front page of the "NFL MONDAY" section):Price can't crack Cowboys' lineup
When Peerless Price left Atlanta his final words were "I hate y'all." How soon will it be until he feels the same way in Dallas? He was inactive for the third time this season as coach Bill Parcells has yet to find a role for him.:D

[Kodos]

Priceless! :)

[Cuckoo]

Granted, I don't know a ton about Price, but I don't really see how he fits in with the Cowboys other than the obvious Bledsoe connection. Johnson and Glenn are the clear 1 and 2. That Patrick Crayton kid has earned the 3rd job and has looked outstanding. And Quincy Morgan is struggling to make the team as the 4 guy.

...

Just doesn't seem like a good fit to me.


This is about what I figured would happen. Whether they told him so or not, this seems to have been an "insurance" signing, just in case Glenn or Johnson got hurt. Glenn has been hurt nearly every season with Dallas so it's understandable, but I had a good feeling from the start there wouldn't be a place for Price unless that happened.

[TazFTW]

It looks like Patrick Crayton has a broken ankle, so Peerless should move to the third WR spot.

[GrantDawg]

When does the Falcon "cut bait" on Dez White? He had four passes dropped yesterday, one he tipped up for an interception, and a holding call that negated a big play. He needs to be gone.

[Ben E Lou]

When does the Falcon "cut bait" on Dez White? He had four passes dropped yesterday, one he tipped up for an interception, and a holding call that negated a big play. He needs to be gone.He had a horrible, horrible game yesterday. No doubt about it.

[JasonC23]

As a Bears fan, I can say that I'm still mystified another NFL team thought Dez White was worth signing.

[duckman]

Price chopper: Cowboys release veteran receiver


<HR width="100%" noShade SIZE=1>ESPN.com news services

Peerless Price (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=4703), who was signed as a free agent in September, was released Saturday by the Dallas Cowboys (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=dal).



<TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=65>http://espn.starwave.com/i/nfl/profiles/players/statsid/s4703.jpg</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=65>Price</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



Price, who caught just six passes for 96 yards, worked mainly as a punt returner.



Price was inactive for four of the Cowboys' first six games.



Price underachieved in Atlanta after the Falcons acquired him in a 2003 trade with the Buffalo Bills (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/clubhouse?team=buf) in which they surrendered a first-round draft pick, and then awarded him a contract that included a $10 million signing bonus.



His best season came in 2002, with Buffalo, when he posted 94 catches for 1,252 yards and nine touchdowns.

[Cuckoo]

Interesting. I thought he'd be inactive again since Crayton was coming back this week, but I didn't think they'd cut him. Dallas better hope they don't have injuries at WR. Price isn't a star, but he's a solid player to have for depth.

[GrantDawg]

Interesting. I thought he'd be inactive again since Crayton was coming back this week, but I didn't think they'd cut him. Dallas better hope they don't have injuries at WR. Price isn't a star, but he's a solid player to have for depth.
But there is something more wrong there than just lack of talent. I don't know what it is for sure, but I think it is a bigger ego than he actually should have.

[stevew]

And guess what, the Price train has came full circle.

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (April 10, 2006) -- Peerless Price signed a four-year contract with the Buffalo Bills, rejoining the team with which he has enjoyed the most success.

A seven-year NFL veteran, the wide receiver returns to the Bills after failed stints with Atlanta and Dallas -- moves that came after he forced a trade from Buffalo to the Falcons three years ago. His new contract includes additional incentives should he take over as Buffalo's No. 1 receiver.


The signing comes a week after the Bills traded disgruntled starter Eric Moulds to Houston. Price is expected to compete for his former No. 2 spot behind Lee Evans, who has begun practicing at Moulds' position.

Price's agent, Tim McGee, said Moulds' departure led him to contact the Bills last week, believing the team could use an established receiver and his client could regain his spark in a familiar environment.

"Very seldom do you see all the things fall in place in this business, but I thought it was one of those situations where it was a no-brainer," McGee said. "When I called him and told him what I wanted to do, he probably thought that I was a little crazy. ... But I thought it was a win-win situation."

Anticipating Moulds' departure, the Bills already had bolstered their receiving corps last month by re-signing Josh Reed and adding free agent Andre' Davis.

Price was Buffalo's second-round pick in the 1999 draft and enjoyed his best season in 2002, when he and Moulds were among the NFL's most productive duos. Price set career highs that season with 94 catches for 1,252 yards and nine touchdowns, finishing second to Moulds, who set franchise records with 100 catches for 1,292 yards.

That was the final year of Price's contract. The Bills initially prevented Price from becoming a free agent by designating him their franchise player. With Buffalo's permission to seek a trade, Price negotiated a contract with Atlanta. In return, the Falcons traded Buffalo a first-round draft pick.

Price struggled in Atlanta, failing to build a chemistry in a predominantly run-oriented system behind quarterback Michael Vick. He had 109 catches for 1,413 yards and seven touchdowns in two years with the Falcons before he was released before last season.

Price then signed with Dallas, reuniting with former Bills quarterback Drew Bledsoe. But he again struggled in finding his role. He was released by the Cowboys in December after getting six catches for 96 yards in only seven games.

All Price needed, McGee said, was to find the right fit.

"He got a taste of the grass on the other side. And I don't necessarily say the grass wasn't greener. But sometimes you've got to go back home. It's kind of funny," McGee said. "He's the same wide receiver he was when he caught 90-plus balls in Buffalo."

In 103 career games, including 83 starts, Price has 347 catches for 4,811 yards and 28 touchdowns.

"Peerless has shown what he can do," McGee said. "It's just a matter of getting refocused and rekindle his career by showing he can do it. He hasn't lost a step."

[EagleFan]

DIdn't know this was an old thread at first. By the title I thought I was going to read that they finally realized Vick isn't going to get them anywhere and they let him go. I guess they are slow learners... ;)

[Kodos]

Because McNabb has won the Eagles so many more Super Bowls? ;)

[Pumpy Tudors]

Wow, Price got traded to Atlanta three years ago? It really doesn't seem like it's been that long. I guess when you're an Atlanta wide receiver, you enter a black hole and time just zips by. What's next? I'm gonna find out that Terance Mathis is still on the roster?