Spring 2007 - No.88

• HERE COMES THE ! • NFL GOES GLOBAL IN LONDON

• LEAGUE TOUGHENS STEROID• NFL TESTING BROADCAST • NFL BOOT PLAYERS CAMP SPEND COMING SPRING UP! IN BUSINESS SCHOOLS 2 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 3 33/16/07/16/07 12:54:5612:54:56 PMPM THE 2007 NFL DRAFT: ANY PICK CAN BE A GEM IN A DEEP POOL OF PLAYERS

Marques Colston…Mark Anderson draft is an opportunity for us to im- …Owen Daniels…Barry Cofi eld…Leon prove the makeup of the team.” . Of course, the attention-grabbers of These 2006 NFL rookies -- all “low- the draft – “which is a phenomenon round” draft choices -- will once again for some that even rivals the Super remind people that the NFL Draft this Bowl itself in importance,” says The year – on April 28-29 at City’s New York Times – are the fi rst-round- -- is comprised ers. The debate on who will go No. 1, of a lot more than the fi rst round. Af- who will comprise the top fi ve picks ter all the fl ashbulbs stop popping for and how the entire round will develop the fi rst-rounders, all the hard work by will be waged right up to the time NFL NFL scouts pays off as the “gems” are Commissioner steps to uncovered in Rounds 2-7. the podium and announces, “With the Perhaps no one proves that more fi rst selection in the 2007 NFL Draft…” than the ’ Colston, The “big names” on every mock- a seventh-rounder last year from Divi- drafters list this year: sion I-AA Hofstra. In fact, Colston was (Notre Dame, near left) and chosen three spots from the fi nal pick. JaMarcus Russell (LSU, far left); He ended up leading all NFL rookies in Joe Thomas (Wisconsin); receiving yards (1,038) and (Oklahoma); wide catches (eight). receiver ( Tech); “In the NFL, you’re in the business and defensive linemen of fi nding players wherever you can,” (Clemson), (Arkansas) says Saints general manager Mickey and (Michigan). Loomis, who drafted Colston. Those players may well be the stars And those “wherever” players can of the future. But, as every scout will take you a long way. Just look at both tell you, “You just never know.” A week starting defensive backfi elds in Super after XLI, the 2007 Bowl XLI. Not one of the eight players was played, featuring the top players in was a fi rst-rounder. In total, the Colts the NFL. Sure, there were many fi rst- and Bears had three second-round- rounders wearing the festive All-Star ers, two fourth-rounders, two sixth- uniforms. But so were rounders and a free agent starting as (seventh round), and Adalius the DBs in the NFL title game. Thomas (sixth-rounders), “I look at the entire draft process as (fi fth round) and Steve Smith (third an opportunity, not just one pick,” says round). general manager Mike “The draft is a crazy process,” says Tannenbaum, who drafted Washing- Jets tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson. “You ton in the fourth round. “The entire never know what’s going to happen.”

FIVE 2006 LOW-ROUND DRAFT CHOICES WHO MADE THEIR MARK

PLAYER TEAM ROUND 2006 SEASON

WR Marques Colston New Orleans 7 Led NFL rookies in receiving yards (1,038) and TD catches (8) LB Mark Anderson 5 Set club rookie record for sacks (12.0) DT Barry Cofi eld NY Giants 4 Started all 16 games at NT, stuffi ng the run TE Owen Daniels Houston 4 Tied for Texans TD catch lead (5) RB Leon Washington NY Jets 4 Led Jets in rushing (650 yards)

Cover photos (l to r): Calvin Johnson, JaMarcus Russell, Adrian Peterson, Brady Quinn.

NFL REPORT 2

62943_NFLReport.indd 4 3/16/07 12:55:11 PM NFL NETWORK SHOWS FANS “THE ”

Football season over? Think again. spective draft choices and breakdowns NFL Network is the place where of each team’s needs. football season never ends. From ex- NFL Network will provide wall-to-wall clusive coverage of the Senior Bowl to live coverage of the NFL Draft on April 28- the Scouting Combine and NFL Draft, 29, featuring two live sets, including one there is no better place on television on the fl oor at draft headquarters at New for all the news and information re- York City’s Radio City Music Hall. lating to how each of the 32 teams are An array of NFL experts including preparing for the 2007 season. former NFL head coach Steve Mari- “If NFL Network’s draft coverage edge of every NFL prospect entering ucci, along with Mayock, Davis, host was a prospect, I’d rank it the top over- this year’s draft.” and reporter all selection on my big board,” says Mayock and analyst Charles Davis will be on location in New York. At NFL NFL Network draft guru are guiding fans along the “Path to the Network’s Los Angeles studio, Paul Bur- (above left). “We’re the only network Draft” on weeknights from March 1-May meister (above right) and on the fi eld at all major scouting 2 at 6:30 PM ET. The new series provides will provide additional commentary events, giving us an intimate knowl- viewers with in-depth analysis of pro- and news from around the league. NFL.COM 2007 DRAFT COVERAGE BIGGER THAN EVER

If it’s NFL Draft information you Draft in 1995, when the website was com since its inception. “When we are looking for, NFL.com is the place in its infancy. Each year since, NFL. started our NFL Draft coverage we had to fi nd it. NFL.com will host gavel-to- com has stepped up its coverage – with three or four days of exposure,” says gavel 2007 NFL Draft coverage featur- the fans following. Over the three-day Brandt, who was the website’s sole ing interactive and real-time expert weekend (Friday-Sunday) last year, the analyst in 1995. “Now our coverage analysis, video features from NFL Net- website logged a record 7.5 million vis- starts at the Scouting Combine and work, and unique “Draft Diaries” from its – a 25 percent jump over 2005. spans more than two months. The the top prospects. Former Cowboys personnel fans keep asking for more, and we give NFL.com began covering the NFL chief has been with NFL. it to them.”

MORE FANS WATCH NFL DRAFT EACH YEAR NFL DRAFT: MOST-ANTICIPATED SPRING WEEKEND SPORTING EVENT Year Total Viewers Reached* 2006 36.3 million Event Sports Fans Interested 2005 34.4 million NFL Draft 47.8 percent 2004 31.4 million Indy 500 43.2 percent 2003 29.0 million Kentucky Derby 40.1 percent 2002 25.5 million Preakness Stakes 29.5 percent *Total Viewers Reached on ESPN & ESPN2 Telecasts Source: ESPN Sports Poll Source: NFL & Nielsen Media Research

3 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 5 33/16/07/16/07 12:55:1712:55:17 PMPM NFL GOES GLOBAL IN ’07: Giants & dolphins Play october Regular-season GAME IN LONDON

Call it the (international) National NFL owners voted last October to play ing teams with a total of four Super Bowl Football League! up to two regular-season games outside wins -- will be shown live in the United That description will certainly be apt the every year for the next States on FOX-TV at 1:00 PM ET (5:00 PM this year as the NFL will be setting inter- five years, with the series kicking off local time). Both teams will have a bye national precedent by playing its first- with a single game this year. scheduled for the following week. ever regular-season game overseas. “The international popularity of the The Mayor of London, Ken Liv- London, England has been an- NFL grows every year,” says NFL Com- ingstone, said the city is thrilled to nounced as the site of the first NFL missioner Roger Goodell. “We see that be hosting the game. “We are very regular-season game outside of North as more and more people around the pleased about having teams of the cal- America. The will face globe watch Super Bowl every year. That iber of the Dolphins and Giants com- the on October 28 – in is a fascination we will build upon. Lon- ing to London,” said Livingstone. “We Week 8 of the season -- at one of the don and its international stature only are expecting nearly 10,000 American world’s most famous venues – Wemb- add to the impact of this game.” fans to travel to London to watch the ley Stadium. The Giants-Dolphins matchup – featur- game as well as people from .”

NFL REPORT 4 NEW-LOOK NFL EUROPA KICKS OFF ITS 15TH SEASON

New name…new logo…hot rivalry. of the Year winner during a three-year The renamed NFL Europa League, tenure with Berlin (2004-06), assumes with a bright new logo, will kick off control of the Rhein Fire, while John Al- its 15th season on April 14 with a re- , who served as Amsterdam’s of- match of last season’s World Bowl fensive coordinator from 2004-06, XIV when the defending-cham- has been named head coach of pion Frankfurt Galaxy host the Berlin. arch-rival Amsterdam Admirals. NFL Europa will conclude its “I am very happy that we can season in Frankfurt with its cham- present a new era of profes- pionship game, Yello Strom World sional football in and Bowl XV on Saturday, June 23. Europe with our new name and “Frankfurt has been a terrifi c logo,” says NFL Europa Manag- partner for the NFL for 15 years ing Director Uwe Bergheim, who now and it is great to have the joined the league last fall. World Bowl back in this wonder- Two NFL Europa teams will fea- ful and world-renowned city,” says ture new head coaches this year. Mark Waller, senior vice president of Rick Lantz, a World Bowl and Coach NFL International.

FOUR NFL PLAYERS MEET AND GREET U.S. TROOPS IN PERSIAN GULF ON 2007 NFL-USO GOODWILL TOUR

For many NFL players, the offseason The NFL began traveling overseas “The USO is proud of its partnership often means packing for destinations as a show of support for the men and with the NFL and looks forward to a of rest and relaxation. women in uniform in 1966 after NFL continuing relationship of providing For tight ends of the Commissioner conceived morale-boosting support to our men and of the idea of sending NFL players and women in uniform,” says Edward of the , Tampa to Vietnam, on “goodwill tours.” The A. Powell, USO president and CEO. Bay Buccaneers Shelton league thus became the fi rst sports or- Crumpler, Quarles, Shields and Quarles and guard ganization to send a group of players Watson provided such a morale boost , offseason preparation to Vietnam as future Pro Football Hall when they visited numerous military this spring entailed a passport and of Famers Willie Davis, , bases, many in far outposts, to pose security clearance from the United and ventured for pictures, sign autographs and dine States Department of Defense. As part to the Far East as a tangible “thank with thousands of U.S. troops. of the 41st annual NFL-USO tour, the you” to the troops. Since that year, the “We were brought in with open players helped continue the long- NFL has sent contingents of current arms,” said Shields of the greetings standing partnership between the two and former players and cheerlead- by the soldiers at each camp stop. organizations by spending two weeks ers to Afghanistan, Bosnia, Germany, “We owe a debt of gratitude to these in March visiting troops in Iraq and Guam, Iraq, , Japan, Kuwait, Soma- individuals for not only protecting our Afghanistan. lia, South Korea and Thailand. country but also a foreign land.”

Quarles, Shields, Crumpler, Watson Shields, Watson, Quarles, Crumpler Watson and Quarles

5 NFL REPORT

62943_NFLReport.indd 7 3/16/07 12:55:29 PM NFL & NFLPA IMPROVE LEAGUE’S STEROID PROGRAM

The and human growth hormone (HGH). NFL Players Association recently • Enhancement of the unpredictabil- reached agreement on a series of im- ity of the year-round testing sched- provements to their policy and pro- ule to address the perception of gram on anabolic steroids and related gaps in the testing periods. substances. • A new feature of the Collective Bar- The modifi cations include a 40 per- gaining Agreement that provides for cent increase in the number of players automatic forfeiture of a prorated randomly tested each week during the portion of a player’s signing bonus preseason, regular season and post- if he is suspended for violating the season from seven to 10 per team. Last steroid or substance abuse policy. year, the number of random offseason Further review of the policy by the tests was increased from a maximum VIRGINIA REP. TOM DAVIS NFL and NFLPA will continue and of two per player to six per player. PRAISES NEW PROGRAM more changes may be made prior to These changes bring the total number the start of the 2007 season. Rep. Tom Davis, R-Va., ranking mem- of steroid tests conducted annually by In addition to these steps, the NFL ber of the Oversight and Government the NFL to 12,000. Youth Football Fund, jointly endowed Committee who has led three hearings Other changes in the program are by the NFL and NFLPA, also recently on steroid use among pro athletes, praised the upgrades to the NFL’s ste- the following: approved a $1.2 million steroids edu- roids testing program: cation grant to the Center for Health “These changes show what sports • The additional use of carbon iso- Promotion Research at the Oregon leagues and their players’ associations tope ratio testing on a random basis Health and Science University (OHSU) can accomplish when they set their to detect low doses of testosterone. in Portland, Oregon. minds to eradicating steroids from their All specimens now will be subject The grant will be used to launch sports. I especially want to commend to random selection for CIR test- OHSU’s nationally recognized ATLAS the NFL, which -- out of all the sports ing. Previously, CIR testing was only and ATHENA steroids and substance leagues -- has been the most consistent in its approach to testing and taking used to confi rm positive tests for abuse prevention programs to 20,000 other steps to end steroid use among its testosterone. high school athletes and 800 coaches athletes. • The addition of erythropoietin (EPO) in 40 high schools during the 2007- “I urge the leagues to involve their to the banned substance list. Test- 2008 school year. athletes -- who are heroes to many ing for EPO will begin with the 2007 “It is important that the NFL and its young Americans -- in their substance- annual test that is administered in players continue to be leaders on the abuse prevention programs. It is impor- the spring or summer. issue of illegal and dangerous perfor- tant that they see athletes who have • A minimum $500,000 NFL grant to mance enhancing drugs in sports,” succeeded in reaching sports’ highest rungs explaining that there are no short- the UCLA Olympic testing laboratory says NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. cuts to success.” and other researchers for the devel- “These latest improvements will help opment of new testing methods for ensure that we continue to have a strong HGH. In addition, a working group and effective program. As we have done will be established to study the is- in the past, we will review and modify sues related to deterring the use of the policy on an ongoing basis.”

NFL REPORT 6

62943_NFLReport.indd 8 3/16/07 12:55:42 PM NFL PLAYERS ATTEND FOUR TOP BUSINESS SCHOOLS

Many players are interested in mov- tion initiative to assist players in of times football opens doors, but you ing into the business world following preparing for their post-playing ca- want to be a person who brings some- their NFL careers, but have questions reers. More than 180 players partici- thing substantial to that business.” about how to make the jump. What Westbrook owns a residential real is a good investment? Is this entre- estate business. preneurial opportunity the right one? The Saints’ Brees is a strong propo- Does this business plan make sense? nent of the program. “It is great that Those questions are among the the NFL puts together courses like this many being answered this spring in for its players,” he says. “I see myself the NFL Business Management and starting a business or multiple busi- Entrepreneurial Program. nesses when I’m done playing, so this Current and former NFL All-Stars program will give me a foundation to , Brian Griese, , build upon.” Keenan McCardell (above at the Whar- Brees, who completed the Wharton ton School), Shawn Springs, Todd course in 2005, will attend the Kellogg Steussie and Brian Westbrook are program in April. among the 116 players enrolled in NFL owners Wayne Huizenga of the programs at the Harvard Business the Miami Dolphins, who has earned School, Kellogg School of Management numerous “Entrepreneur of the Year” (Northwestern University), Stanford pated in the program’s fi rst two years. awards, and Jerry Richardson of the Graduate School of Business (above) “You have to have a life after foot- , who became the and Wharton School of the University ball, and you need something you can fi rst former NFL player to own an NFL of Pennsylvania. fall back on,” says Westbrook, who team since , will speak The program is part of an on- earned his degree at Villanova in man- at Kellogg and Harvard, respectively. going NFL-NFL Players Associa- agement information systems. “A lot -- McCardell photo: Tommy Leonardi

7 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 9 33/16/07/16/07 12:55:5112:55:51 PMPM NFL CHARITIES SUPPORTS PLAYER FOUNDATIONS WITH MORE THAN $1 MILLION IN GRANTS

NFL Charities, the charitable arm nessee, and Louisiana. With the help social and academic development of of the National Football League, re- of Manning, partner organizations and young people. With the help of NFL cently awarded more than $1 million NFL Charities, PeyBack has donated Charities, Big Ed’s Band will continue in grants to support the charitable more than $1.3 million to local commu- to support music programs by provid- and community service activities and nity organizations. ing and repairing instruments foundations of both former and cur- Griese’s “Judi’s House” has for schools. rent NFL players. grown considerably in “Our players invest a The funds are used to maintain and the past several years. great deal of their off- enhance the scope of their founda- At Judi’s House, young the-field time in giv- tions that work to better the lives of people have the op- ing back to people people in communities nationwide. portunity to partici- in need,” says NFL The grants were distributed to 64 pate in peer support Commissioner Roger player foundations including those of groups with children Goodell. “Hundreds Colts Peyton their own age who are of players go beyond Manning, quarterback experiencing grief as team-organized efforts Brian Griese, and guard a result of various life and form foundations Edwin Mulitalo. hardships and loss. that focus on causes that Super Bowl XLI MVP Manning found- Established in 2003, Mu- are close to their hearts.” ed The PeyBack Foundation to help litalo’s “Big Ed’s Band” founda- The year’s grants ranged ensure the future success of disadvan- tion has helped rescue public school from $1,000 to $25,000 and often were taged youth by assisting programs that music programs targeted for elimina- matches to player donations. provide leadership and growth oppor- tion due to budget cuts. Raised in a tunities for children at risk. The founda- musical family, Mulitalo understands tion focuses its efforts in Indiana, Ten- the important role music plays in the

NFL REPORT 8 INDIANAPOLIS’ IRSAY HELPS SURVIVORS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA TORNADOES

Two days before the and Chicago Bears clashed in Su- per Bowl XLI in South Florida, several tornadoes struck Central Florida, kill- ing 20 people and causing damage and destruction to thousands of homes. The day after the Super Bowl, as his team celebrated the fi rst NFL cham- pionship for the city of Indianapolis, Colts owner pledged $100,000 to help the survivors whose lives were ravaged by the tornadoes. “Our celebration was in stark con- trast to the devastation experienced by Central Florida just two days ear- lier,” said Irsay. “We must help the people of Central Florida rebuild.” The donation to the Florida Disas- ter Recovery Fund was announced by Florida Governor Charlie Crist. “Jim Irsay’s quick response along with the fi nancial gifts of countless others will allow the important relief efforts of the Florida Disaster Recov- ery Fund to continue for the weeks and months to come,” said Governor Crist. Irsay (shown hoisting the Super Bowl XLI trophy) also taped a public- service announcement that encour- ages people to donate to the fund to help with long-term recovery.

9 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1111 33/16/07/16/07 12:56:2312:56:23 PMPM Photo: Matthew Altenbach WEAVERS CONTRIBUTE $1 MILLION TO ART EDUCATION

Art will continue to inspire Jackson- museum’s permanent collection has continuing art education for teachers, ville youth, thanks to the Weavers. grown to more than 6,000 works of art annual tours of the museum, visits to Wayne Weaver and Dolores Barr encompassing 8,000 years of art history. selected schools by Cummer staff to Weaver, owners of the Jacksonville “We are proud to acknowledge help introduce students to art and the Jaguars, recently donated $1 million to through our gift the Cummer Museum museum, and vouchers for free visits the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens of Art & Gardens as a wonderful Jack- to the museum for participating chil- in Jacksonville to establish the Weaver sonville resource,” said Barr Weaver. dren and their families. Academy of Art at the Cummer. “This endowment will ensure that un- This multi-faceted program targets The donation will endow a fund for derserved children and public schools children in local elementary schools who an art program for socially and eco- in our community will benefi t from the are not currently served by Art Connec- nomically disadvantaged children. Weaver Academy of Art at the Cummer.” tions, the Cummer’s education center, or Since opening its doors in 1961, the The Weaver Academy will include the region’s art tours program.

NFL REPORT 10

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1212 33/16/07/16/07 12:56:3412:56:34 PMPM JONES TO BECOME PACKERS NEW PRESIDENT/CEO

The last remaining publicly owned Bay’s president and CEO. “I’m thankful to Bob Harlan, the ex- professional sports team in the United Harlan retires after 36 years with ecutive committee and the board of States is about to get a new CEO. the team, the past 18 as its CEO. Jones directors for this opportunity,” said On May 30, John Jones will succeed has been with the Packers since Feb- Jones (middle, below, with Harlan on Bob Harlan as the Green Bay Pack- ruary of 1999 after a 10-year career left and former Packers President Hon. ers’ chief executive offi cer – the fi rst with the NFL Management Council in Robert J. Parins). change in leadership of one of Amer- New York. He served as Green Bay’s se- “I’m very confi dent the stability, ica’s most famous and revered teams nior vice president of administration, continuity and direction of the team in 18 years. its executive vice president/COO, and will carry us into a successful future,” On that day, the Packers’ board of di- became president/COO in May 2006. he said. “All of us here will continue rectors will elect Harlan as the team’s Jones currently serves on a num- to work to provide the football team chairman emeritus, as he has reached ber of NFL committees (CEC Executive with all the resources it needs to fi eld age 70, the board’s mandatory retire- Working Group, Qualifi ers, Stadium, a championship club.” ment age. Jones will become Green and Super Bowl Advisory).

11 NFL REPORT

62943_NFLReport.indd 13 3/16/07 12:56:41 PM COWBOYS’ JONES INDUCTED INTO SPORTS HALL OF FAME

He played for Arkansas, but now he is a member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. owner – the only man in history to play for a collegiate national championship football team and own a Super Bowl winner – was recently inducted into the Texas hall for his contributions to football and to the community. Jones – who has brought three Super Bowl titles to Texas – was inducted along with former NFL players , , and Roosevelt Leaks, among others. In his acceptance speech, Jones re- counted how as a guard and co-captain of the , he learned a lesson in sportsmanship from leg- endary football coach Darrell Royal. Arkansas escaped with a late victo- ry against its big rival, yet Royal came to the Razorbacks’ locker room to con- gratulate the team. “Those are the things that, as a young person, stay with you,” said Jones. Jones and Perkins become the 11th and 12th Cowboys in the prestigious Texas group. Other Cowboys in the Hall include , , , , Rayfi eld Wright, and . “I’m just riding the wave of coach Landry, Tex Schramm and all the inter- est there has been in the Cowboys,” said Jones. “When you look at it from that way, you get a different perspective being hon- ored with all these great people.”

NFL REPORT 12

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1414 33/16/07/16/07 12:56:5212:56:52 PMPM GLAZERS AID TAMPA SCHOOLS WITH VISION SCREENING

The Glazer family has a clear vision The machines detect vision dis- of what they seek to accomplish with orders in children from preschool the team they own – a winning Tampa through high school. Last year there Bay Buccaneers. were 2,700 preschool children in Hill- Off the fi eld, the family is dedicated sborough County who had their vi- to another vision: improving the vision sion screening paid for by the Glazer of schoolchildren in the Tampa area. Family Foundation. In doing so, the Glazer Family Foun- The testing allows for the detection dation recently donated more than of problems early in development so $40,000 for state-of-the-art vision- children can receive treatment, will screening equipment at local schools not be deterred by vision impairments, in the region. That was only the latest and can achieve their full potential. example of the family’s commitment “This project is very close to the to the cause. heart of the Glazer family,” says Buc- In 2006, Glazer family funds pur- caneers COO Eric Land. “We’re thrilled chased three types of equipment for schools in Pasco and Manatee to be part of helping children fi nd a (some shown on right) that assist in Counties. In the future, Glazer Foundation way to receive corrective lenses and the vision screening of students in Funds will be donated to two go on to become better students.” Tampa’s Hillsborough and Pinellas different counties annually in the Glazer family, above: Father Malcolm Counties schools. region until all schools have vision (second from left), sons Bryan, Edward This year machines will be bought screening equipment. and Joel (from left).

13 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1515 33/16/07/16/07 12:57:0112:57:01 PMPM CHARGERS’ SPANOS APPOINTED DEPUTY SHERIFF

He’s done so much for them, they that due to all Spanos has done for the more than $3 million of vital equip- even waived the fi rst year’s dues! community, he was waiving his new ment and life-saving supplies to make The Honorary Deputy Sheriffs’ As- appointee’s fi rst-year’s dues. Spanos law enforcement offi cers’ jobs safer sociation of (HDSA) recently (above, talking to New York Jets owner and their ability to protect citizens appointed San Diego Chargers Presi- ) thus joined the orga- stronger. dent/CEO as an honorary nization of business and community Its single mission is to support San deputy sheriff. leaders as a commander, the highest Diego law enforcement, making it one Sheriff Bill Kolender (inset, right) pre- rank in the HDSA. of the premier such organizations in sented Spanos with his sheriff’s creden- The HDSA is a non-profi t/non-po- the United States. tials at a surprise ceremony and said litical organization that has provided NFL’S ANDERSON, HEAD OF FOOTBALL OPERATIONS, ELEVATED TO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT LEVEL

Ray Anderson, the NFL’s senior foot- operations after four seasons as the ex- ball executive, has been elevated to ecutive vice president and chief adminis- executive vice president of football trative offi cer of the Atlanta Falcons. operations, NFL Commissioner Roger He supervises all NFL football opera- Goodell recently announced. tions, including offi ciating and the NFL The appointment marks the fi rst Europa League. time that the department will be A graduate of Stanford University and headed by a senior-level executive. Harvard Law School, Anderson’s wide- “This step confi rms that there is no ranging career includes labor law litiga- higher priority in our offi ce than the tion and representation of NFL coaches game,” Commissioner Goodell said. and players in contract negotiations. “Ray Anderson is a talented executive. Anderson grew up in Los Angeles He will continue to strongly lead this where he was an all-league high school area, working closely with the Compe- quarterback and shortstop. As a schol- tition Committee and our clubs to en- arship athlete at Stanford, he earned sure that the game on the fi eld is op- three letters as a football player and also Ray Anderson is fl anked by head coaches erating at the highest possible level.” played baseball. He earned his degree in of Indianapolis (l.) and Herman Anderson joined the NFL offi ce last Au- political science in 1976 and graduated Edwards of Kansas City. gust as senior vice president of football from Harvard Law School in 1979.

NFL REPORT 14

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1616 33/16/07/16/07 12:57:0612:57:06 PMPM BREES & TOMLINSON SHARE AWARD

Two former teammates -- quarter- both on and off the fi eld. She also listed tor in LT,” said Brees. back Drew Brees of the New Orleans numerous accomplishments both men Tomlinson idolized Payton as a Saints and running back LaDainian have made in the New Orleans and San youngster. “I am honored to receive Tomlinson of the San Diego Chargers Diego communities through team-led ef- this award because it is named after -- have been named only the second forts and their individual foundations. a man who had a tremendous impact co-winners of the coveted Walter Pay- Brees (below left) led the NFL in on me growing up,” he said. ton NFL Man of the Year Award. passing yards in 2006 (4,418) and Tom- The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Two days before Super Bowl XLI in linson (below right) set the league’s Year Award, named after the Chicago South Florida, Connie Payton, Walter single-season touchdown record with Bears Pro Football Hall of Fame run- Payton’s wife, presented the former 31. They used that same drive in the ning back who died in 1999, is the only Chargers teammates with the awards community on programs to benefi t NFL award that recognizes a player’s (above left). Payton recounted how the less fortunate. off-the-fi eld community service as Brees and Tomlinson shared the qual- “This is a tremendous honor for me well as his playing excellence. ities of determination and compas- to win this award and share it with a and Jim Flanigan sion of her late husband (above right) good friend and tremendous competi- were the fi rst co-winners in 2000.

15 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1717 33/16/07/16/07 12:57:3212:57:32 PMPM BRONCOS SET MEMORIAL FUND FOR WILLIAMS; ADD TEEN CENTER FOR THEIR BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Honoring of a late teammate. Help for teenagers. Those are two of the main themes of the ’ offseason. On January 1 of this year, 24-year- old Broncos Darrent Wil- liams (right) was killed in a drive-by shooting in Denver. After its initial shock and sadness, the team vowed to perpetuate Williams’ memory by es- tablishing a fund in his name. Thus was born the Memorial Grant. Each January, $50,000 will be presented by Broncos Charities to a youth service agency in the Colo- rado area that provides positive alter- natives to young people. The inaugural grant was to the Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives, a gang-prevention program that the Broncos have worked with over the past decade. “It is through this asso- ciation that we have come to believe in the commitment of Open Door,” says Broncos owner . “It is a wonderful fi rst step in formally me- morializing Darrent Williams.” Helping young people has been a core initiative of the Broncos for years. Witness the minimum fi ve- year $1.2 million investment the team made in the establishment of the Broncos Boys and Girls Club in North- east Denver in 2003. Today, the club serves more than 1,500 chil- dren ages 6-18 in the areas of academic support, leadership devel- opment, sports and recreation, youth mentoring, health and safety, and arts and culture (pictured above is Broncos Rod Smith with Boys and Girls Club youngsters). This offseason, the team will col- laborate with the City and County of Denver and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver to implement a $300,000 renovation project at the Broncos Boys and Girls Club to open a new teen cen- ter. It will increase immensely the daily capacity of the club to service its children’s needs.

NFL REPORT 16

62943_NFLReport.indd 18 3/16/07 12:57:50 PM DONATES $500,000 TO UTAH ALMA MATER

Photo: Steve Wilson

Alex Smith came back and gave back. It’s really special for me.” space will feature new lifting stations quarterback Alex Smith, who was the No. 1 overall pick and cardiovascular conditioning space. Smith recently returned to the Universi- by the 49ers in the 2005 NFL Draft after “This gift illustrates one of Alex’s great- ty of Utah to announce a $500,000 dona- leading Utah to a 12-0 record and a Bowl est characteristics, which is leadership,” tion to the school’s athletic department. Championship Series appearance, said said Utah President Michael Young. “He “This is my alma mater,” said Smith, that his donation would be the lead gift clearly demonstrated that leadership pictured here at the presentation. for a $1.5 million expansion of the var- at Utah. He continues to demonstrate “I have so much pride for this univer- sity athletics weight room, which will be it with the 49ers, and now he’s leading sity and for being a ‘Ute.’ I feel it’s not renamed the Alex Smith Strength and once again as a young alumnus giving only my duty, but an honor to give back Conditioning Facility. back to his alma mater. We are deeply to the university for future athletes. The complex’s 11,000-square feet of grateful and proud of Alex.”

17 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 1919 33/16/07/16/07 12:58:3412:58:34 PMPM RAMS SPEARHEAD HEALTHY YOUTH PARTNERSHIP

The St. Louis Rams Foun- established by the Rams’ star dation, as part of a coali- receiver. tion of more than 70 local “What I do on the football organizations, is leading fi eld is bring entertainment to the effort to fi ght childhood people and give them a chance obesity in the St. Louis area to get away from the daily by taking part in the newly grind and watch an exciting created Healthy Youth Part- football game with exciting nership. players,” says Bruce. “What The partnership is a pro- I do in the community is my gram designed to teach service -- it is who I am.” children to balance their Through the Partnership, the life with proper exercise Bruce Foundation will provide and good eating habits. a snack room with healthy St. Louis Mayor Francis snacks at three participating Slay was on hand to an- schools as well as distribute nounce the team’s par- healthy lifestyle tips to the ticipation in the program students. along with Rams Pro Bowl With an aim of having all running back Steven Jack- schools in the St. Louis metro- son, who showed his sup- politan area from kindergarten port by volunteering to be children).“We are going to do all that’s to the 12th grade participat- the spokesperson for the program. possible to educate kids on the impor- ing within a year, the Healthy Youth “My goal is to get the kids back out- tance of eating healthy.” Partnership will offer schools fi ve af- side and into the parks, being active Among the organizations that in- ter-school programs for their children. and staying healthy,” said Jackson at vested more than $150,000 for planning Each curriculum will have a unique St. Louis’ Mitchell Elementary School and start up of the Healthy Youth Part- way of educating and motivating the ( he is pictured with two of the school’s nership is the Foundation, children to exercise and eat right. JETS URGE KIDS: EAT RIGHT, MOVE MORE

D’Brickashaw’s behind it! The New York Jets’ left tackle, representing the team, New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine and the state’s agri- culture secretary, Charles M. Kuperus, have teamed up to launch the Eat Right, Move More campaign aimed at schoolchildren. The program encourages students to eat the nutri- tious foods now being offered in schools in New Jersey as part of a new school nutrition policy that focuses on healthier eating and more physical activity. The campaign features posters of Ferguson (right) in every school telling students, “When I have a healthy meal, it helps me play my best. Your school cafeteria has a variety of nutritious foods to keep you going all day long. So get up, eat right and move more!” The campaign challenges New Jersey schools to sub- mit their meal menus to determine the fi ve schools with the most creative meal selections and that have made the most signifi cant changes to improve their school nutrition. Each of those fi ve schools will receive a visit from a Jets player and one of those fi ve will be randomly selected to be honored at a Jets home game this season. The Jets will move their permanent home to New Jer- sey and join the New York Giants as co-tenants in a new stadium in 2010.

NFL REPORT 18

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 2020 33/16/07/16/07 12:58:4912:58:49 PMPM LIONS ARE A REAL PAL TO FOOTBALL-PLAYING YOUTH

Reaching out to help fellow football players -- even though they may be a bit smaller -- the Detroit Lions recently do- nated $60,000 to Think Detroit PAL (TDP), a large-scale inner-city football league. TDP features 80 teams with more than 3,000 players, ages 8-14, mak- ing it among the largest after-school tackle football leagues in the nation. In all, TDP serves 13,000 Detroit chil- dren with a mission to build character in young people through athletic, aca- demic and leadership development programs. The Lions annually feature TDP at their Lions kicker Jason Hanson with TDP youngsters kickoff luncheon, with proceeds benefi t- ing the program. As TDP’s major sponsor, skills development with life skills and two grants to the program. the team donates time, resources and character advancement. “The Lions are not just a football money to the organization. The Lions have also donated $50,000 team, but a part of the community, as This year, for the fi rst time, TDP will to help restore the Plymouth Education- well,” says William Clay Ford, Jr., vice integrate the NFL Junior Player Devel- al Center’s football fi eld that TDP young- chairman of the team. “We have a opment Program for a group of 150- sters use. And fi nally, to help encourage unique opportunity and responsibil- 200 Detroit children. The six-week and support TDP’s 1,500 adult volun- ity to help make a difference by being intensive program integrates on-fi eld teers, Detroit Lions Charities awarded good corporate citizens.” BILLS’ BUTLER BECOMES WEEKLY HOSPITAL VISITOR

He made one visit, and hasn’t everybody there, in their own spe- stopped coming back! cial way, touched somebody from our After rookies visited the team,” he says. Women & Children’s Hospital of Buf- The hospital’s Child Life Specialist falo last September, so impressed was McKenzie Mattison makes no secret tackle Brad Butler that he continued to that the kids and staff love having visit the hospital each week and plans Butler around. to keep that schedule for as long as he “He’s excellent at talking to the kids plays in Buffalo. on their level and fi nding things that The Virginia graduate said his vis- make them smile,” says Mattison. “We its give him life perspective. “I learn haven’t had that. He’s very dedicated. so much more from the patients than We appreciate him taking time that he they do from me,” says Butler, seen doesn’t have to give.” here with a young patient. “It’s amaz- Mattison noted that any time Butler ing just how positive they are.” has been forced to miss a Tuesday vis- Women & Children’s is a modern it (the players’ day off), he calls to re- pediatric acute care and emergency schedule for later in the week. And the care center. staff doesn’t mind, because they know Butler said he and his fellow rookie he is a man of his word. “He’s awe- teammates were all affected by the some,” says Mattison “The kids look kids during their fi rst visit. “I think forward to seeing him every week.”

19 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 2121 33/16/07/16/07 12:59:0612:59:06 PMPM MEXICO, CANADA & UNITED STATES PART OF NEW INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL FEDERATION

internationally,” said Scott Hal- bers of the nine-year-old lenbeck, USA Football executive International Federa- director and newly elected PA- tion of FAF president. (IFAF), which was formed Representatives of football in 1998 with the expressed Football is rapidly gaining popular- organizations from the US, purpose of promoting the ity around the world. Recently, seven Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, development of American countries from the Americas came to- Panama, Argentina and Uru- football worldwide. PAFAF gether to form the Pan-American Fed- guay make up the federation. will be the Pan-America eration of American Football (PAFAF). In their fi rst meeting, the Continental representa- Their goal is to help expand the game countries discussed initial tive to IFAF. of American football in North, South plans to extend the sport “The creation of the Pan- and Central America, as well as in the within the Western Hemi- Scott Hallenbeck American Federation of Caribbean. sphere. American Football is fur- “We have made history by creating Four of the seven charter members ther proof of the fast global growth of PAFAF as we support, and in times lead, of PAFAF (United States, Canada, Mex- American football,” said Tommy Wiking the development of American football ico and Guatemala) are already mem- of , president of the IFAF. SUPER BOWL TOPS FORBES’ MOST VALUABLE BRANDS

Forbes.com -- “the home page for FORBES’ TOP 10 SPORTS BRANDS the world’s business leaders” -- has chosen the Super Bowl as the world’s most valuable sporting events brand. 1. Super Bowl Yes, that’s the world’s most valuable, 2. Summer Olympics not just America’s. 3. FIFA World Cup “In cold, hard dollars, nobody throws a party like the National Foot- 4. Daytona 500 ball League,” wrote Forbes recently. 5. Rose Bowl The magazine’s website cited tele- vision rights fees, stadium signage 6. NCAA Men’s Final Four sponsorship revenue, ticket receipts 7. Winter Olympics and licensing revenue in calculating an event’s value. 8. Kentucky Derby With Super Bowl XLII scheduled for 9. World Series next February 3 in Arizona, here are the top 10 sports brands: 10. NBA Finals

Indianapolis Colts’ , MVP of the game, drops back to pass against Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI.

NFL REPORT 20

62943_NFLReport.indd 22 3/16/07 12:59:20 PM NFL TO HELP PLAYERS WITH POST-CAREER PLANS THIS JUNE IN “NFL BROADCAST BOOT CAMP”

Their playing careers will not last awho are interested in a career in analysis, voiceovers and research, forever, but they can still stay in the broadcast journalism. among other topics. There will even be game. To run from June 18-21 at NFL Films a job fair with prospective employers. One way to do it is through a ca- in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, the NFL From NFL (Troy Aikman) to college reer in broadcasting. That is why NFL Broadcast Boot Camp, hosted by James (Craig James) analysis, from cable TV Player Development -- the division of Brown of CBS, will feature a hands-on () to local radio (Hardy the league that counsels NFL players program of numerous broadcast top- Nickerson), numerous former NFL on topics ranging from fi nancial plan- ics that will help participants decide players have forged successful broad- ning to educational development to if they are interested in a post-career cast careers. post-career preparation -- has sched- life in front of a microphone. NFL Player Development and the uled an “NFL Broadcast Boot Camp” Seminars and workshops will NFL Players Association are ready to this June for active and former players include fi eld reporting, game studio help others do so.

21 NFL REPORT

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 2323 33/16/07/16/07 12:59:3512:59:35 PMPM ASK THE COMMISSIONER

Questions for NFL Commissioner Q: Do you believe the recent rules However, we need to consider how Roger Goodell: changes designed to protect quarter- this program will interact with our backs in the pocket are too prohibitive? new Collective Bargaining Agreement Q: Has the NFL considered expanding Have those rules started to affect the with the NFL Players Association. the Rooney Rule, which mandates that aggressiveness of defensive players? As we move forward and evaluate teams interview minority candidates how our new labor deal affects both the for head coaching vacancies, to critical Commissioner Goodell: When I look owners and the players, we will work front offi ce and coordinator positions? at the intensity of the competition on proactively with the NFLPA to address the fi eld each Sunday, it’s hard for me future options for league-wide stadium Commissioner Goodell: We have to believe that defenders aren’t main- funding mechanisms. We look forward thought about that a great deal. The taining their aggressiveness. Football to those conversations. most encouraging aspect of the Rooney is, and always has been, a physically Rule, which is just one component of and mentally demanding sport. Q: Given the success the Saints had our league-wide effort to encourage Player safety is critically important this year, do you see New Orleans as diversity, is that it has worked. Teams to us. Not just quarterback safety, but a viable NFL market now and in the are seeing the value of conducting an the safety of all players. Our goal is future? extensive, open, and diverse search to to ensure that the game is played as identify new head coaches. When that fairly as possible without signifi cant Commissioner Goodell: The New Or- happens, you will fi nd better people. unnecessary risk to its participants. leans Saints were an inspiration to Ultimately, we want to have the best This is an issue that is monitored very many people this year – not just be- possible people working for the Na- closely every year by our Competition cause of their on-fi eld success, but also tional Football League. The changes Committee, and we will continue to because of what the franchise has done we have made in our hiring policies evaluate our rules to adapt to the way for that community as it rebuilds. have exposed us to a larger group the game is being played. The NFL has always demonstrated of people that are smart, have great a unique ability to bring communities character, and can contribute to the Q: Are there any plans to replenish together, but that has been especially league. The spirit of the Rooney Rule the G-3 fund, which has helped many evident in New Orleans. is to ensure that our clubs consider as franchises fi nance new stadiums? The reopening of the Superdome many candidates as possible from the and the Saints’ exciting road to an NFC pool of talented assistant coaches. Commissioner Goodell: The G-3 fund is South Division championship created My hope is that some day soon, the currently exhausted after recent com- new revenue for the community and Rooney Rule will no longer be neces- mitments to help fi nance stadiums provided hope for the city and region. sary. Clubs are conducting extensive in Kansas City, New York and Dallas. As New Orleans continues to make searches voluntarily because they be- These signifi cant investments represent strides towards recovery, we will work lieve it will pay dividends for them. I the league’s dedication to providing an in concert with the Saints and local feel the same logic applies to front of- unparalleled in-stadium experience for authorities in identifying new ways fi ce and coordinator openings. There is football fans across the country. to help on a regional basis in the Gulf no question teams have benefi ted from The NFL has always had a league- Coast. employing that type of open-minded wide stadium funding mechanism, approach to hiring head coaches. Most and I anticipate we will continue that Questions for Commissioner Goodell may importantly, it’s the right thing to do. in some form as we move forward. be sent to caseyv@nfl .com.

NFL REPORT 22

662943_NFLReport.indd2943_NFLReport.indd 2424 33/16/07/16/07 2:21:322:21:32 PMPM 62943_NFLReport.indd 1 3/16/07 12:53:22 PM