QUOTE: “Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air.” -- John Quincy Adams

Happy Fourth of July weekend. In honor of our Independence Day celebration, here are few independent thoughts ...

I think losing Calvin Pace for four games is going to give the New York Jets plenty of time to determine if 2008 first-round pick Vernon Gholston can actually play for them this year.

Jason CampbellAPRedskins quarterback Jason Campbell

Jason Campbell had better stop worrying about hurt feelings and try to play better. My guess is that by the middle of October, he’s no longer the starter in Washington.

I just don’t get the feeling the Redskins are going to be good this year. Call it a hunch, but they don’t impress me at all.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Detroit Lions security director Ricky Sandoval, who lost his battle with pancreatic cancer Thursday. He was 49.

George Young, the former Giants GM, would never work on his rookie contracts until Bastille Day, the French national holiday, on July 14.

Al Davis turns 80 tomorrow -- happy birthday to the Raiders owner. Fourth of July was always a day off in Raiderland. Yankees owner George Steinbrenner turns 79 tomorrow as well.

Al DavisRaiders owner Al Davis...back in the day

I just don’t think the talent or athleticism of 49ers tight end Vernon Davis is ever going to manifest itself on the field. He seems unable to get everything working right at the same time.

Turning 50 is not as bad as it seems, as my friend Rick advised me. You no longer have to finish a book you don’t like or go to some stupid party with people you don’t like. Fifty brings more independence.

My man Matt Bowen better get his travel agent working on my Springsteen tour. I feel very confident in that bet he and I made. His post yesterday about defensive players was dead on -- especially Will Smith of the Saints. He needs to have a few Bud Heavies today. …

Joe “The Tipper” Fortenbaugh has been working overtime on his fantasy draft guide, so make sure you check out all his good information. My two sons love his advice.

You must read Ray Gustini’s CFL preview in the Daily Jolt. It’s a great read. I also want to wish Marc Trestman, the head coach of the Montreal Alouettes, good luck this season.

And good luck to Dan Rooney as he heads off to become U.S. ambassador to Ireland.

You have to check out this shot of Phil Mickelson hitting the ball backward.

I have a feeling that Larry English of the Chargers is going to make a huge impact on their defense this year. He, along with Shawne Merriman, is going to be a very disruptive force.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and is somewhere near a fireworks show as we celebrate Independence Day.