The Falcons released Tyson Clabo last month, making him one of the top offensive tackles available on the free agent market, along with Eric Winston. With seven teams already in minicamp, both players are still looking for new jobs.
Friday NFL news roundup: Cowboys, Dolphins still looking for offensive tackles
Teams are focused on the NFL Draft with just a week left to prepare, but don’t be surprised to see a major free agent move or two prior to Thursday’s main event.
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A closer look at the 2013 schedule
The NFL released the 2013 schedule on Thursday night. Steve Lepore breaks down the big games as well as the networks handling them. Opportunities may be coming their way soon, though. The Cowboys are interested in both players, according to Jason La Canfora, but their financial situation is still tight. Current right tackle Doug Free is taking up significant cap space, so cutting him would likely be needed to bring in either free agent.
Aside from the regular season schedule release, what else made headlines Thursday around the NFL?
Kansas City gave Miami permission to talk to the 28-year-old tackle, so a trade between the two could be on the horizon. Albert didn't show up to the Chiefs' voluntary workout program, and he isn't present in minicamp. He appears ready to move on.
The Dolphins are looking to acquire an offensive tackle before the NFL Draft, also reported by La Canfora. Trading for Albert would fill their current void among the front five.
Redman signed a one-year, $1.323 million contract, while McLendon received a three-year deal worth a max value of $7.25 million. Pittsburgh gave Redman opportunities as the featured back last season, but he couldn’t sustain that role. He’ll be in the mix again for a share of the carries in the backfield.
McLendon's re-signing could mean the official end of Casey Hampton's tenure with the Steelers. He will be seeing a boost in playing time now with the veteran out of the picture, assuming Pittsburgh doesn't bring Hampton back.
The former first-round pick hasn't lived up to his potential in the NFL, but he provides a decent rotational player wherever he lands. Detroit doesn't seem too concerned about re-signing Jackson. If he does walk, the Lions may be putting more focus on the defensive line when the NFL Draft comes next week.
The Chiefs would like to see Lilja come back for 2013. He is still rehabbing from surgeries on his knee and toe, but a return during training camp might be a possibility. Lilja announced his retirement last season. Is he prepared for his first comeback tour? Kansas City could use his help at left guard.
Minicamp news
Jaguars defensive end Andre Branch injured his groin Thursday. He only played three games last year due to a groin injury. The situation is worth monitoring.
The Bears are looking to use Devin Hester as a gunner on special teams. His speed could be useful for getting down the field ahead of everyone else in pursuit.
Michael Vick says the Eagles are still "his team" and the starting job is his to lose. He seems to be enjoying the transition to Chip Kelly's new up-tempo offense.
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