NFL TALK TODAY…

1.     Do you think the reason that Shawne Merriman is going to try and play when all four doctors told him to get the surgery is because he has an incentive in his contract for 2 million dollars?  Call me cynical, but you have to wonder.  And I wonder if the team is going to ask him to sign something to say he is playing against the recommendations of the medical staff.  I hope Shawne does not cause himself further injury and can handle this seemingly impossible challenge. 

2.     We thought Baltimore was a little thin at QB and claiming Casey Bramlet makes sense.  Cam Cameron had him in Miami and being in a similar system with Norv Turner of the Chargers, Bramlett can come in, learn the snap count, and play. 

3.     Thankfully Derrick Harvey can resume his career.  Signing today is good for both parties and now he can concentrate on learning how to rush the passer.  If used exclusively as a pass rusher, Harvey may be able to contribute as a nickel and dime player. 

4.     I mentioned a few posts ago that The National Football Post is looking for head high school coaches who do an amazing job with their teams.  Rivals.com will rate all the top high schools in the U.S.  Is there anything better than high school football on a Friday night?  Send us your recommendations and we will follow their progress.  By the way, I am always a Raider.  My son plays for the high school team call the Red Raiders.  You just never can leave that Hotel....

TOP HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL RANKINGS IN AMERICA

5.     I was talking to a GM in the league today and even he was surprised that the Packers still refuse to bring in a veteran QB to back up and help Rodgers.  I think it is a dangerous move and Green Bay needs to hope Rodgers can hold up.  Risky business here.

6.     I hear the Redskins will move offensive lineman Steven Heyer over to right tackle and may give him a chance to start.  Jon Jansen, the normal right tackle, is not healthy and there are problems there.  Signing Fred Miller does not solve those problems either. 

7.     I watched the Detroit Lions offensive line today and was very impressed with their toughness and temperament.  I was even more impressed with Gosder Cherlius, who looks like he can play right or left tackle.  He is going to be very good. 

8.     Did anyone see Charles Barkley at the Democratic National Convention last night?  You have to love the guy for his love of this country and saying what he feels.  The truth comes right from Sir Charles.

9.   SI is running the article AFC Team Totals, which speculates the number of wins each team will have at the end of the season.  For example, the article estimates that the New York Jets will win eight games.  Incredibly, the Jets' total increased by only one half of a win after the Brett Favre trade was announced.  That should give you some idea of just how absurd all the hype was.  The two new faces at guard, Alan Faneca and Damien Woody, should help, but there doesn't look to be much value in either side of this number.

10.  Enjoy the Democratic speeches tonight and make sure you register to vote. If you read anything on the election you need to make sure you read Mr. Friedman’s column today.  And I am not for one side or another I am on the U.S. side. This always makes really good Tavern Talk.  Cheers!