New England Patriots 07/17/2007 9:59 AMThe Boston Herald reports thoughts of a long-term deal are officially dead, not that there was much hope of one being struck for CB Asante Samuel. The question is, what now for the free agent cornerback, who remains holding a Patriots franchise tag worth $7.79 million? Will this quickly dissolve into a more contentious fight, punctuated by a long-term holdout, given the sides remained extremely far apart during negotiations? Or, might something else be in store, something a bit more amicable between the two sides?Read more
Carolina Panthers 07/17/2007 9:56 AMThe Charlotte Observer reports the Carolina Panthers have signed third-round draft choice (83rd overall) DE Charles Johnson from Georgia, the team announced Monday.Read more
Pittsburgh Steelers 07/17/2007 9:54 AMThe Tribune-Review reports the Steelers have exchanged contract proposals with first-round draft pick LB Lawrence Timmons, and a deal could be completed before the opening of training camp, agent Drew Rosenhaus said. "We've both exchanged proposals, and I hope to meet with the team at some point in the near future," Rosenhaus said Monday. "Things are progressing at a good rate, and I'm still hopeful of getting a deal done before camp starts."Read more
Indianapolis Colts 07/17/2007 8:21 AMThe Dayton Daily News reports former Ohio State WR Roy Hall was undoubtedly a surprise selection for the Indianapolis Colts in the fifth-round of this year's draft, but there are those who believe he could be one of the draft's best-kept secrets. The 6-3, 240-pound receiver caught some eyes with his performance during the team's minicamp last month and will be a player to watch in training camp. Hall is a big, physical receiver with excellent speed, running a 4.35 in the 40-yard dash. In minicamp, Hall showed good hands, outstanding leaping ability and made good adjustments to the ball. He was tough to jam at the line of scrimmage and gave some defenders fits.Read more
