25th Hour Rumors...as Free Agency Approaches

While Julius Peppers is, and will likely continue to be the hot topic of free agency, a story heating up as we near the hour at which the new season is upon us has nothing to do with free agency.

Reports are circulating out of both cities that the San Diego Chargers and New York Jets are very close to a deal that would send troubled cornerback Antonio Cromartie to New York in exchange for what is believed to be an early round pick in the 2011 draft.  That pick is believed to be either a second or third round pick.  I'd imagine that given Cromartie's problems off the field and lack of production on the field last year the pick may be conditional.

Cromartie, while having problems off the field and seeing his production drop off last year has always been known as a ball hawk, and pairing him up with Darrelle Revis would be a nightmare for opposing QB's, both with the increased threat of an interception as well as the opportunity for coach Rex Ryan to throw even more blitzes the QB's way given his improved secondary.

This would be a real problem for the Patriots, particularly if they release Adalius Thomas and he signs with the Jets, where he'll likely flourish again under a system that once brought him success in Baltimore.  And guess what team he'll be looking forward to playing twice a year?

Other news circulating this hour:

QB Jake Delhomme has officially been cut by the Carolina Panthers

DE Julius Peppers is believed to be a serious target of the Washington Redskins, according to recent reports.  Up until this evening it was widely believed that the Chicago Bears were the front runner in the sweepstakes to sign the coveted free agent, but it looks like the Redskins may be taking advantage of the uncapped year and are attempting to win yet another off season.  They just hope this move finally leads them to winning during the season for once.

While I reported last week there was interest by the Lions in DT Glenn Dorsey, of Kansas City it's being NFL)">reported this evening that the Lions have acquired DT Corey Williams from Cleveland.  This move may be an effort to clear the way  for the Lions to draft and sign Ndamukong Suh, if he's still there when they pick second like many analysts are predicting.  It's also believed that the Lions will pursue free agent Kyle Vanden Bosch, who would team back up with Lions head coach Jim Schwartz, his former defensive coordinator.