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Nikos Karakasidis 1/11/08 Bradford Critique

Overall the Bradford has done a good job of meeting the criteria listed in the CSPA Critique. The Bradford covers diverse topics, as the class is required to submit story ideas, which are then assigned to every writer. We spend a lot of time developing story ideas that will be relevant to the school community when it is released, not at the time of its writing. Because of the many topics that are covered in The Bradford, the publication projects a lively, enterprising personality. We do a good job of developing different views with unrepeated data and information on a major topic in our centerfolds. We do a good job of covering all new classes, student groups, teachers, and school rules. The diversity of stories we publish allows for The Bradford to attract different readers who are interested in specific topics. Through this method we are able to attract a larger student body to read each Bradford edition. The only topic we have yet to cover is community service being done by students and opportunities offered by the school. This could be a valuable addition, as community service looks great to colleges when it comes time for every student apply for a higher level of education. The feature coverage is great, as we cover art programs, performances, and exhibits, while also including puzzles (Sudoku) and jokes. All major varsity meets are covered in our paper, but an improvement could be mentioning the records, streaks, and awards given to players on freshman and JV teams, especially as those players are also students who could be reading our paper. We should gather more polls, opinions, and studies that could create interesting results (could be used to attract new readers). The class did a great job of adding an editorial section, which was what caused the judge to be critical of last year’s Bradford. This year’s writers have done a great job of considering and recording all points of view while writing about controversial topics. I feel that the Bradford could have better use of free time between writing articles. Students could be given sample articles and learn to edit and reword sentences while practicing writing smaller paragraphs and transition sentences or paragraphs. Although the Bradford has great editing system before the publication of the paper I feel that the writers could help each other. After writing a first draft, I feel that it would be a good idea for the writers to meet and discuss the topics being written about, as different students might know relevant information and possible people or students to be interviewed for another person’s article. I think it would be a good idea if the Bradford required that leads emphasize the Ws and H that underscore an article’s impact. As a writer I believe there are some requirements that are unnecessary. After writing multiple articles I feel photographs can be difficult to find. A possibility I thought of for this problem could be working with the photography class. Writers could explain the topics of their articles while photography students could go out and take professional photos to be published in the newspaper.

Third Term Wikiproject (#2) Nikos Karakasidis 2/29/08 #2 Wiki project Bellow I have copied and pasted the 10 articles I have tracked throughout this week. I will identify them as acticles 1-10, each group of two representing one day of work. My topic of interest is sports, particularly in the Boston area. Because of this I have been reading the boston globe and found its articles online to copy and paste into this document.

Monday: Articles 1 and 2: Today the Patriots released Linebackers Colvin a Lua. While Colvin had been a star for the Patriots, making several key plays during the Patriots’ rematch win against the San Diego Chargers during the regular season, he has cost the Patriots a lot of money. Throughout his 7 year contract he signed with the Patriots, he has been sidelined by injuries for the majority of the time, causing the Patriots to waste money. I believe the Patriots are making strategic moves on their money management to make room to bring new players. This connects with Article 2 because I’ve also learned that Eugene Wilson (Safety) has decided to leave the Patriots. While we have lost a key line backer, we have a lot of holes to fill in our defense, especially as there is a chance our other safety, Rodney Harrison, could retire. I think we could incorporate this in the Bradford to keep a continuous update about Boston sports going. The NFL free angecy just began and as the Patriots have a lot of spaces to fill, there will be a lot of moves happening.

Tuesday: Articles 3 and 4 Today long time Linebacker Tedy Bruschi decided to return to the Patriots. This is a very important move for the Patriots, as he has been our captain on defense since the beginning of our streak of Super Bowl wins. After losing LB Colvin, it was important not to create a vacuum on our defense. This is the first step to rebuilding the Pat’s weak defense. I think we could write an article about the type of strategies the coaches could go about rebuilding a defense that allowed the Giants to go 80 yards in less than a minute to win the Super Bowl back in early February. This connects to Article 4 because Franchise Player Asante Samuel, one of the league’s top corner backs, is leaving the Patriots. This creates a very big empty space is our defense, so the moves and decisions of the coaches are critical to determining if the Pat’s can return to a dynasty status team.

Wenesday: Articles 5 and 6: Good news for the Celtics. There are rumors that Boston could be bringing Sam Cassell, a high scoring and veteran player, from the Clippers. This could be massive for the Celtics! Along with his help, the Celtics could become the biggest powerhouse in the NBA. This is exciting news and I think it would be great if we could open a Boston Sports section to update our students at WHS.

Thursday Articles 7 and 8: Today was big news for the MLB. The executive direct said he would consider approving blood testing for the human growth hormone if there as a valid procedure for determining its use over an extended period of time. The fact that there has been big news in all parts of New England Sports (football, basketball, and baseball) tells me that it wouldn’t be difficult to maintain a section devoted to these sports. I figure, as there is daily news even while its during the Patriot and Red Sox’s offseason, it would be much easier to maintain a section when the season’s began. At any point during the year one of the seasons (either Celtics, Red Sox, or Patriots) will be going on, so there wouldn’t be a scarcity of material.

Friday Article 9 and 10: The free agency has officially begun in the NFL. Today, one of the top defensive ends in the league, Jevon Kearse “the Freak” (Philly Eagles), was released because he failed to live up to the expectations set when he signed. Looking for a new team, and probably an equal if not smaller salary, Kearse would be a big move for the Patriots Defense that needs to fill empty spots with experienced and skilled players to return to the level of playing they had attained this year. There’s also been other opportunities for the Patriots. After the Pats lost there two starting corner backs, former Patriot and star Ty Law (Chiefs), was released. The Patriots should automatically be considering Law, as he still knows the NE play book and had an influencial role in the locker room and on the field while he played in New England. We could take these issues that I have brought up throughout my week of analyzing sport news, and interview different students and coaches around WHS about their opinions and predictions.

ARTICLES: Patriots release LBs Colvin, Lua

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- The New England Patriots have released linebacker Rosevelt Colvin, who was a member of two Super Bowl winning teams, but also missed significant time with injuries. He was scheduled to count $7.6 million against the salary cap next season, the last of his current contract. Colvin signed with the Patriots as an unrestricted free agent in March 2003 after four seasons in Chicago in which he was considered one of the best pass rushing linebackers in the NFL. In his first season in New England, he started the first two games before suffering a season-ending hip injury at Philadelphia on Sept. 14. He played in the first 11 games last season before missing the remainder of the season and the playoffs with a foot injury suffered Nov. 25. He had 38 tackles in 16 games with the Patriots in 2004, then had 73 tackles and seven sacks in 2005. He led the team with 8.5 sacks in 2006. He has 414 tackles, 52.5 sacks, three interceptions, 13 forced fumbles and nine fumble recoveries in nine seasons with the Patriots and Bears. The Patriots on Tuesday also released linebacker Oscar Lua, the team's seventh-round draft pick in 2007 who missed the entire season with a knee injury. © Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

INDIANAPOLIS - After five years, Eugene Wilson and the Patriots have decided to part ways. The two-time Super Bowl starter will become a free agent Friday at 12:01 EST, and he won't be back in New England. "I'm looking forward to moving on, and at the same time, I wish the best of luck to the Patriots because I don't think I'll be back there this year," Wilson said yesterday. "I'm excited to get into free agency to see what is out there." Based on informal discussions with personnel executives and coaches at the NFL combine, Wilson should expect to draw some interest, perhaps as soon as the opening weekend of free agency. One club had him ranked as the second-best safety available in free agency, while also valuing that he can play cornerback in five- or six-defensive back packages. A second-round draft choice of the Patriots in 2003, Wilson made an immediate mark in his rookie season. When safety Lawyer Milloy was unexpectedly cut prior to the season opener, the team needed a replacement. Then, after losing, 31-0, in Buffalo in Week 1 and watching Antwan Harris struggle, the Patriots turned to Wilson despite the fact that he had been a cornerback at the University of Illinois. The 5-foot-10-inch, 195-pound Wilson started 15 games that season and all three playoff contests. He tore his groin in the third quarter of the team's Super Bowl win over the Panthers. Wilson was a consistent presence in the lineup over the next two seasons (36 games, 35 starts) before things dipped unexpectedly. Despite beginning the 2006 season as a starter, Wilson played in just four games, limited by a torn groin and a hernia. He said yesterday that reports of him having only a hamstring injury that season were erroneous. Last season, Wilson started the first five games before coming off the bench against Dallas. The decision appeared to be game-plan related, as the Patriots favored a James Sanders/Rodney Harrison pairing against the Cowboys' two-tight end offense. But after Wilson sustained a mild high ankle sprain the next week in Miami, he ended up missing five straight games. Looking back, Wilson felt he could have returned sooner. "I thought the year started off pretty good, I was playing consistent, but then I had the high ankle sprain," he said. "I was ready to come back but I was still on the inactive list for a couple games. I'm not sure the reason why. "Then when I was active again, it just seemed I was down further and further [on the depth chart]. I don't have an explanation. Maybe free agency had something to do with it." Wilson suited up for the season's final four games, starting Dec. 16 against the Jets in place of Sanders (knee). But he was inactive for the playoff opener against the Jaguars, with Sanders, cornerback/safety Randall Gay, and 2007 first-round draft choice Brandon Meriweather ahead of him on the depth chart. In the Super Bowl, he was the seventh of seven defensive backs on the game-day roster. Summing up his time in New England, Wilson said starting in Super Bowls his first two years was a highlight. He also appreciated the camaraderie among the defensive backs, especially Asante Samuel, with whom he developed a close friendship. "Everybody got along with everyone," Wilson said, "but I think we all realize this is a business and we move on."

Bruschi back with Patriots TEDY BRUSCHI Returning for 13th season TEDY BRUSCHI Returning for 13th season

When assessing his football future in recent years, linebacker Tedy Bruschi has often said he likes to take inventory after each season. Then, after consulting with his loved ones, he'd make a final decision. related content

The inventory is complete. So, too, are the important discussions with his family.

And with that, Bruschi has decided he's ready to play some more football, agreeing to terms on a multiyear contract with the Patriots yesterday, according to a league source.

The decision gave the Patriots some positive momentum heading into the start of free agency early this morning. Bruschi would have been a free agent as his contract was set to expire.

Bruschi, who turns 35 in June, started every game for the Patriots in 2007. He led the team in tackles during the regular season (99), as well as solo tackles (69). One of his top performances came in the AFC Championship game against the Chargers when he tied for a team-high eight tackles, while diving to deflect a pass intended for tight end Antonio Gates at the goal line.

In the days leading up to Super Bowl XLII, Bruschi talked about how he planned to approach his future.

"I'm 34 years old and in my 12th year. After my season's over, how does my body feel? Do I still have the passion to play? I sit down with my wife and we discuss those things and we go from there," he said.

The 2008 season will mark Bruschi's 13th in the NFL, all of which have been with the Patriots. His fiery play on the field has earned him respect from teammates and foes, and his return from a stroke in 2005 has made him an inspirational presence to many off it. Teammates voted him a defensive captain last season.

From a football perspective, the 6-foot-1-inch, 247-pound Bruschi adds an important veteran presence to a linebacking corps that only has seven players under contract. Bruschi joins returning starters Mike Vrabel and Adalius Thomas, as well as backups Eric Alexander, Larry Izzo, T.J. Slaughter, and Pierre Woods.

In the Patriots' 3-4 alignment last season, Bruschi played both inside spots, starting the season on the weakside paired with Thomas. When Thomas shifted to the outside, Bruschi moved to the strongside to form a 1-2 punch with Junior Seau.

Although Bruschi's return is solidified, Seau's situation remains up in the air.

The 39-year-old Seau told the Associated Press yesterday he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left rotator cuff after the Super Bowl, noting he suffered the injury in the fourth game of the season.

A 12-time Pro Bowler and 18-year veteran, Seau has played the last two seasons for the Patriots. Asked about returning for a third, he said: "I know that it's a structure of what coach [Bill] Belichick and the Kraft family have to partake in, to put together a great team that can follow up what we did last year. That takes time. There really isn't anything on the table for me to look at except me getting healthy and being ready to go whenever anything that is a liking to me surfaces."

For now, Seau remains in San Diego, where he's a regular on the beach.

"I have a choice of playing or a choice of surfing," he said. "Those are great choices to have."

Samuel to visit Eagles

CB Asante Samuel is scheduled to visit the Eagles on Friday, according to FoxSports.com. It looks like it will be Samuel's only visit, with the sides close to striking a six-year deal that could be worth a maximum of $60 million if Samuel reaches all his incentives.

As of Friday morning, the Eagles are confirming the visit.

Cassell bought out; next stop Boston? Email|Print| Text size – + By Marc J. Spears

The first step toward veteran point guard Sam Cassell becoming a Celtic took place yesterday.

Cassell signed buyout papers with the Clippers and won't clear waivers until Monday at 6 p.m., assuming he clears. The 38-year-old is expected to sign with the Celtics over the Nuggets and Mavericks. An NBA source said that Cassell plans to be in Boston when he clears waivers.

Since the two-time NBA champion will be waived prior to tomorrow's deadline, he will be eligible to play in the postseason.

"I think it's a situation where the team [Clippers] gives me an opportunity to chase another dream of mine," Cassell told the Los Angeles Times. "I appreciate it. There was frustration from both parties with our team being hurt and it was just an opportunity to move on."

Cassell spoke as if he will be wearing the green and white once he clears waivers. He said he would wear either No. 91 or 28. "I talked to [the Celtics] today and they said they want me," Cassell said.

Cassell will receive about half of the $1.7 million remaining on his $6.1 million contract, according to the Los Angeles Times. Despite signing forward/center P.J. Brown Wednesday, the Celtics still have one roster spot remaining. Boston can offer a prorated $1.2 million veteran's minimum to Cassell. The Clippers are expected to sign free agent guard Ronald "Flip" Murray to replace Cassell.

Celtics general manager Danny Ainge and coach Doc Rivers cannot comment on Cassell until he clears waivers.

"We do have one spot available, but I am very happy with our team," Ainge said last night.

Cassell averaged 12.8 points, 4.7 assists, and 25.7 minutes in 38 games for the Clippers, shooting 26 percent from 3-point range. Although he has been hampered by a hand injury, it's not a major concern.

Experience is another factor in Cassell's favor; he has played in 115 postseason games and starting guard Rajon Rondo has not played in the postseason.

Cassell has said he would have no problem backing up Rondo.

Cassell, who has played with Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, has skills the Celtics could use.

"Leadership and another weapon, just direction," Cassell said. "Those guys are already playing well. I just want to fit in and make it easier for KG, Ray, Paul, and for the other guys."

Although the odds are in Boston's favor, nothing can be finalized until Monday night. The Nuggets might try to woo Cassell, who played with coach George Karl and is close to fellow Baltimore native Carmelo Anthony.

Dallas can offer Cassell an opportunity to play behind Jason Kidd.

Kings of this court Celtics, not James, rule the night Email|Print| Text size – + By Marc J. Spears

Barely 24 hours after returning from a long Western trip, the weary Celtics gutted out a key conference victory last night. more stories like this In its first home game in two weeks, Boston defeated the new-look Cavaliers, 92-87, in front of a sellout crowd at TD Banknorth Garden. The Celtics (44-12) won their sixth straight at home and third straight overall. The Eastern Conference champion Cavaliers (32-26) and Celtics, who could meet in the postseason, split the four-game season series.

"I knew it coming into the building," said Celtics guard Ray Allen, who scored 22 points, including three 3-pointers. "I knew before leaving LA what it was going to be like to fly home after six hours and have a game the next day. [Tuesday] was a travel day and it was over the minute we landed. Everybody in the league deals with that.

"We just have to be mature about it, step up to the plate. Once you get in the building, it's all the same. I've always said the NBA is not meant for somebody to go undefeated. But you try to win your fair share of games and games that other teams think you shouldn't win."

The Celtics returned from a 2-3 trip Tuesday at around 6 p.m. To give his players extra rest, coach Doc Rivers canceled the shootaround yesterday morning and had a walkthrough prior to the game. Working in the Celtics' favor, however, Cleveland was coming off a 105-102 loss at Milwaukee Tuesday.

"When you come back home that first game, it's one of the toughest games," said Celtics forward Kevin Garnett, who had 18 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals. "It was just that. I thought our defense fueled us, gave us energy, and made us talkative. That was the difference. We made our shots when we had to.

Said Rivers: "We didn't play great and they didn't either. They probably got in at 3 in the morning after playing the game in Milwaukee."

Cavaliers star LeBron James, who entered the game averaging a league-best 30.2 points per game, scored 26, missing 17 of 24 shots, including 5 of 6 3-point attempts, in 39 minutes. He left the game in the second quarter after spraining his right ankle when he landed on Paul Pierce's foot. James returned for the second half after X-rays proved negative, but he missed 11 of 15 shots after the break.

"I've had my share of ankle injuries. The first thing I thought was, not again, not another one to go down for our team," James said. "We have been hit with the injury bug, the cold bug, guys have been walking around here sick and injured. I didn't want to go down."

Baseball union could OK valid HGH test Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Donald Fehr, left, talks with Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan Selig, right, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2008, prior to testifying before the House Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection subcommittee hearing on drug use in sports. Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Donald Fehr, left, talks with Major League Baseball Commissioner Allan Selig, right, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2008, prior to testifying before the House Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection subcommittee hearing on drug use in sports. (AP Photos/Susan Walsh)

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—Players' union leader Donald Fehr would consider approving blood testing for the human growth hormone if there was a valid, efficient procedure for determining its use over an extended period. Related

Under baseball's collective bargaining agreement, urine tests for performance-enhancing substances are administered, although HGH cannot be detected in current urine tests. The World Anti-Doping Agency says a blood test for HGH will be used at the Olympics, but no validated blood test for HGH currently is commercially available.

"If and when a blood test is available and it can be signed and validated by people other than those that are trying to sell it to you, then we'd have to take a hard look at it," Fehr said Thursday. "We'd have to see what it is and try to make a judgment as to whether it is fair and appropriate."

Such a test would have to be agreed upon in discussions between owners and the union.

New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter said this month he "wouldn't mind" a blood test for HGH, and several of his teammates echoed that stance.

"I haven't talked to Derek about it, but my guess is if something is there, it works and it wouldn't be too bothersome, I'd think about it," Fehr said. "I guess a lot of people would. But that depends on what it is and how it's done."

Fehr made the comments after meeting with the Baltimore Orioles, his first step in a planned journey to discuss union issues with all 30 major league teams. Twenty-four hours earlier, Fehr was in Washington in front of a House subcommittee seeking to legislate drug-testing policies for U.S. leagues.

"It was a straightforward hearing. They had some things they wanted to ask," Fehr said.

Asked to assess the public's perception of the sport in the wake of accusations that superstars Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens used performance enhancing drugs, Fehr said, "If one of our friends does something terrible, we don't assume that the rest of our friends are going to do that. Having said that, we have some fundamental principles in this country, and one of those is innocent until proven guilty. We've got to remember that, and we've got to pay attention to that."

No hookup for Moss, Patriots Gay joins Samuel - as a free agent Kelley Washington has agreed to remain a Patriot. Kelley Washington has agreed to remain a Patriot. (2007 file/Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff) Email|Print| Text size – + By Christopher L. Gasper Globe Staff / February 29, 2008

As of the wee hours this morning, Randy Moss was not an ex-Patriot, but he also didn't have a long-term contract to keep him in New England, while cornerbacks Asante Samuel and Randall Gay appeared headed out of Foxborough via free agency, which officially kicked into gear at 12:01 a.m. more stories like this

When reached after midnight, Moss's agent, Tim DiPiero, said he had no comment on negotiations and wouldn't answer a question as to whether Moss, now officially a free agent, had the parameters of a deal to stay with the Patriots, who elected not to place the franchise tag on the record-setting receiver.

Samuel has already made it clear he intends to test the free agent market - early rumors point to the Philadelphia Eagles as a possible landing spot - and now he has company in Gay.

Gay's agent, Albert Elias, said yesterday that Gay, who made $1.3 million last year under his restricted free agent second-round tender, and the Patriots were unable to reach an agreement. The sides remained far apart.

"Basically, it's very disappointing that we weren't able to work something out because both Randall and myself really wanted him to remain a Patriot, but we're going to keep the lines of communication open," said Elias.

Gay is expected to start visiting with other teams tomorrow and is regarded as one of the top three corners in a shallow market, behind Samuel and San Diego's Drayton Florence. Elias said several teams are lining up to meet with Gay. Last season, the New York Jets expressed interest in Gay before the Patriots tendered him.

The 25-year-old Gay set a career high with three interceptions last season, tying him for second on the team behind Samuel, and played a 16-game season for the first time. He made three starts during the regular season and started for the injured Ellis Hobbs in the Patriots' 31-20 playoff win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Gay was primarily used by the Patriots as a nickelback last season, but Elias believes Gay has proven he can be a starter. Gay joined the Patriots in 2004 as an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana State and ended up starting nine games. He started at left cornerback in Super Bowl XXXIX, finishing as the Patriots' leading tackler. Gay's 2005 and '06 seasons were cut short by injuries - ankle and hamstring.

But topping the Patriots' priority list is Moss, who in his first season with the team caught 98 passes for a franchise-record 1,493 yards and set an NFL record with 23 touchdown receptions. Moss, who turned 31 Feb. 13, made $5 million last season, including $2 million in incentives for receptions and his Pro Bowl selection.

The Patriots have also been negotiating to bring back wide receivers Jabar Gaffney and Kelley Washington. Late last night, Washington and the Patriots agreed to terms on an undisclosed contract, according to a league source.

Washington made $1.06 million last season. He didn't catch a pass, but was a top special teamer. He had a $4 million option bonus payment that the Patriots did not pick up. Gaffney overtook Donte' Stallworth, whose $8 million in option bonuses weren't picked up, as the third receiving option.

Other New England free agents of note are cornerback Chad Scott, who sat out the season after suffering a left knee injury in training camp; long snapper Lonie Paxton; safety Mel Mitchell; and veterans Junior Seau and Troy Brown, both of whom must decide if they want to play another season. New England has already let safety Eugene Wilson know he won't be returning.

"We are working hard to get this done," Paxton's agent, Paul Sheehy, said via e-mail. "Both sides are motivated to make this happen and we continue to work on it."

Yesterday, the Patriots placed a $1.41 million second-round tender on restricted free agent defensive lineman Mike Wright, who played in nine games last season before being placed on injured reserve with a foot injury Dec. 13. Wright, entering his fourth season, can receive offer sheets from other teams, but the Patriots have the right to match. If the Patriots decline, any team that signs Wright must surrender a second-round pick.

The Patriots did not make a qualifying/minimum tender offer to defensive lineman Rashad Moore, making him an unrestricted free agent.

According to a report in The Daily Advertiser of Louisiana, Patriots running back Kevin Faulk, who was cited for marijuana possession last Friday, passed a drug test and will not have to enter the NFL's substance abuse program.

Faulk said he talked to coach Bill Belichick and immediately submitted to a drug test, which was taken Monday. He said the results of the test were negative.

Faulk was charged with simple possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor, after he was found with four hand-rolled cigars filled with the illegal substance while attending a Lil Wayne concert in Lafayette, La.

Mike Reiss of the Globe staff contributed to this report.

Report: Faulk passes drug test Email|Link|Comments (17) Posted by Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff February 28, 2008 08:45 PM

According to a report in The Daily Advertiser newspaper in Louisiana, Patriots running back Kevin Faulk, who was cited for marijuana possession last Friday, passed a drug test and will not have to enter the NFL's substance abuse program.

Faulk told the paper he talked to coach Bill Belichick and immediately submitted to a drug test, which was taken on Monday. He said the results of the test were negative.

Faulk has been charged with simple possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor, after he was found with four hand-rolled cigars filled with the illegal substance while attending a Lil Wayne concert at the Cajundome in Lafayette, La., last Friday.

The passing of a drug test would not affect those charges.

The Freak show is over in Philadelphia. more stories like this After four mostly disappointing and injury-plagued seasons in which he showed only glimpses of his feared pass-rushing ability, the Eagles released defensive end Jevon Kearse yesterday, the last day before the free agent signing period begins.

Kearse, nicknamed "The Freak," was in the middle of an eight-year, $66 million deal signed in 2004 that made him at the time the highest-paid defensive end in NFL history.

The three-time Pro Bowl selection failed to live up to the lofty expectations set when he signed. His ineffective performance last year led to reduced playing time and finally landed him on the sideline, despite his big salary. Juqua Thomas replaced Kearse in the lineup.

Kearse, who was due to earn $6.46 million next season, recorded only 3 1/2 sacks in 14 games last season after missing most of the 2006 season with a knee injury. The move had been expected and came just before last night's midnight opening of the free agent signing period.

It was a busy day around the NFL as many teams released high-priced veterans to make room under the salary cap.

According to a team source, the Chiefs will cut former Patriots cornerback Ty Law next week. Linebacker Kendrell Bell, tight end Jason Dunn, and defensive lineman James Reed also are expected to be released.

Former Patriots wide receiver David Givens was released by Tennessee. Givens, who signed a five-year, $24 million deal in 2006, played only five games that season before suffering a serious knee injury and didn't play at all in 2007. The team also tendered offers to seven restricted free agents, including All-Pro kicker Rob Bironas, tight end Bo Scaife, and starting right tackle David Stewart.

Isaac Bruce, the last player remaining from the Rams' 1995 move from Los Angeles, was let go by St. Louis, which also cut backup quarterback Gus Frerotte.

The Ravens cut 33-year-old former University of Maine center Mike Flynn, one of the last remaining cornerstones of its Super Bowl title team eight years ago.

Fullback Lorenzo Neal, 37, was released by the Chargers, who also parted with safety Marlon McCree and right tackle Shane Olivea.

Buffalo released cornerback Kiwaukee Thomas.

Anderson on market The Browns were unable to sign quarterback Derek Anderson to a three-year, $20 million contract - $10 million guaranteed - before the free agency deadline and are prepared to turn their high-powered offense over to Brady Quinn. General manager Phil Savage protected the club by tendering Anderson a one-year contract offer for $2.5 million in 2008. Anderson did not accept the deal. Teams can negotiate with the 24-year-old Anderson, who went from backup to Pro Bowler in 2007. If Anderson accepts an offer, Savage said it would "make it extremely difficult" for the Browns to match it. . . The 49ers gave quarterback Alex Smith a vote of confidence by exercising a multimillion-dollar buyback clause in the former No. 1 draft pick's contract that essentially extends his deal through 2010. . . The Cardinals tendered qualifying offers to defensive end Antonio Smith, cornerback Eric Green, and offensive lineman Elton Brown. . . The Steelers offered deals to wide receiver Nate Washington, guard Chris Kemoeatu, long snapper Greg Warren, and offensive tackle Trai Essex.

Report: Chiefs will part with Law Email|Print| Text size – + Football Former Patriots cornerback Ty Law was one of four players told by the Chiefs that they will be released, sources told the Kansas City Star. Linebacker Kendrell Bell, defensive tackle James Reed, and tight end Jason Dunn will also reportedly be let go. . . New Packers president Mark Murphy said he believes quarterback Brett Favre will return to Green Bay for another run at the Super Bowl. . . The Panthers cut ties with quarterback David Carr and brought back receiver Muhsin Muhammad. Carr was released a year after he signed a $6 million, two-year deal with the Panthers following a five-year stint as a starter in Houston. Muhammad prepares for his second stint with the franchise, a week after he was released by the Bears. . . Teams terminating the contracts of players included the Ravens (running back Mike Anderson), the Colts (linebacker Rob Morris and defensive tackle Anthony McFarland), the Buccaneers (defensive ends Kevin Carter and Greg Spires), the Bills (running back Anthony Thomas, linebacker Coy Wire, and cornerback Jerametrius Butler) and the Browns (defensive lineman Orpheus Roye). The Bills also waived offensive guard Aaron Merz, and Tampa Bay released defensive ends Kevin Carter and Greg Spires. . . Quarterback Kelly Holcomb was released by the Vikings. . . The Saints and guard Jamar Nesbit agreed to a three-year contract. . . Myron Cope, a Steelers announcer 35 years, died at 79 at a nursing home in a Pittsburgh suburb.