Since Roger Goodell took over for Paul Tagliabue as NFL Commissioner, he has made it abundantly clear that he is not afraid to decisively deal with any problems the league might encounter.
But for the Commissioner with the iron fist and the league that prides itself on the ideals of parity and discipline, there is surprisingly little control when it comes to the start of free agency. Twice already we have heard rumors of tampering…first it was the Rams signing of former-Raven Jason Brown (a player the Eagles supposedly had interest in) and now today the Titans have officially asked the league to investigate the Redskins signing of Albert Haynesworth.
Wait, you’re telling me Dan Snyder might have bent the rules for his own team’s benefit? Knock me over with a feather! While today’s development may not surprise anyone (there were rumors circulating that the Skins would sign Haynesworth days before the free agency period started) it is a sign that the time for the league to act has come.
Goodell already made it clear he wants tampering rules enforced, but he will need the support of the owners to make this happen. Whether they add a week to negotiate with players prior to the start of the signing period, or add more harsh punishments for teams that do break the rules (a loss of draft picks maybe?) Either way, something needs to be done if the league really is serious about presenting a level-playing field for all 32 teams.
Skins Might be Close to Acquiring Cutler
Unfortunately this isn’t an April Fool’s joke…the Redskins might be close to trading for disgruntled Bronco QB Jay Cutler. Some of the rumors are less believable than others (If the Redskins traded Chris Cooley who else would Cutler have to throw too?!?), but regardless Cutler would be a huge upgrade over Jason Campbell. Let’s hope all this falls through and Cutler stays in the AFC.
**UPDATE**
Thankfully Cutler ended up in Chicago, and while he didn’t stay in the AFC he didn’t end up in the NFC East either, which is perfectly ok with me!
