Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland, apologizing for his now infamous question to Dez Bryant about whether his mother was ever a prostitute:
“I talked to Dez Bryant and told him I used poor judgment in one of the questions I asked him. I certainly meant no disrespect and apologized to him.”
These kids are so coached up by agents on how to answer our questions, I wanted to see his reaction to that one. I didn’t think he’d actually tell the media about it. Now that’s all anyone wants to talk about. Did I tell you we signed Karlos Dansby and traded for Brandon Marshall?
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, on Ireland:
“I will be looking into this matter personally and will take appropriate actions if necessary.”
Geez, this is all anyone is asking me about! We’ve had a good offseason and now it’s overshadowed because Jeff asked about this kid’s mother being a prostitute. Did I tell you Jimmy Buffett, Serena and Venus Williams, Jennifer Lopez and Gloria Estefan are part owners?
The NFL, on the matter:
“Steve Ross’ statement makes clear that the Miami Dolphins intend to address this matter promptly in an effective and thoughtful way.”
Steve will come down hard on Jeff; we don’t need to.
Former Lions general manager Matt Millen, on the matter:
“We’re making a big deal out of something that’s probably not that big a deal.”
Man, you should hear some of the questions I used to ask. Or maybe you shouldn’t.
NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith, on the matter:
“NFL teams cannot have the free reign to ask questions during the interview process which can be categorized as stereotyping or which may bring a personal insult to any player as a man.”
Can you believe he asked him that? I was quiet through the Roethlisberger thing, but I can’t let this go.
Pacman Jones, on his reformed ways:
“You ain’t got to worry about no phone calls at 3, 4 in the morning. I’m here to play football.”
I’m a changed man. I’m now leaving strip clubs around 2; I have to rest up for my tryout. Or the one I hope to get.
Jets center Nick Mangold, on the release of his teammate, Alan Faneca:
“He’s a great mentor and teacher for me, but at the same time you know it’s a business and the powers that be decided it was time to move on.”
I heard they still have to pay him $5 million. Hope they still have some set aside for me. I want a big deal like Alan got before they get rid of me one day.
NFLPA president and free agent Kevin Mawae, on still not having any offers:
“I hope our management and the owners can look past the fact that I am president of the NFLPA. But right now it’s not looking that way.”
Faneca got $2.5M a day after being cut and I can’t get a sniff in four months? I’m getting blackballed, right?
Titans coach Jeff Fisher, on star running back Chris Johnson boycotting offseason workouts:
“Obviously, he’s taking advice from his agent. I hope that C.J. is taking good care of himself while he’s not here.”
His agent is giving him bad advice. He’s got no chance for a new contract if he doesn’t show up for workouts.
Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb, on being given the starting job, having a baby and getting a $12M extension recently:
“It’s been a good month.”
They traded away Donovan McNabb, gave me the job, are giving me $12M, and I’m a free agent again after next year? Man, I love the Eagles.
Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey, on being at offseason workouts:
“You know, it’s hard working out in New York when it’s cold outside and you have to work indoors. It’s great weather here, and I have no excuse not to be here.”
Of course, I had no excuse not to be with the Giants either, but where would you choose to be in the winter, New Jersey or Miami?
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, on continuing the three-day draft format:
“I’d be hard-pressed to think we won’t go with the two-night prime time start, and the three-day draft.”
Have you seen the ratings?
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