Former N.C. State starting Quarterback Russell Wilson transfers to Wisconsin

Umaru Lamin, Sports Writer DGT Sports

Former N.C. State starting Quarterback Russell Wilson will choose to sign with the Wisconsin Badgers with his last year of eligibility. Wilson a 4th round draft pick of the Colorado Rockies had been playing baseball for their minor league Asheville Tourist batting .228, with 3 home runs, and 15 RBI in 16 games. Wilson decided to join the Rockies minor league team instead of participating in spring practice with N.C. State. Tom O'Brien, head coach of N.C. State named Mike Glennon as the team's starter, and he gave Wilson his unconditional release.

Wilson had visits to the football programs of Auburn, and Wisconsin leading up to his decision yesterday. Wilson will have about one month before Wisconsin opens its fall practice August 1st in preparation for the upcoming college football season. Wilson had excellent numbers as the Wolfpack’s starting Quarterback last season throwing for 3,563 yards, and 28 touchdowns. Wisconsin is one of the favorites in the Big Ten in 2011 and with Wilson's addition the school has the potential to compete for a national championship.

This signing is big news for the Wisconsin football program. Wisconsin has never really had a top flight Quarterback, and Wilson brings his 3 years of experience as a starter to a team that already has a pretty potent offense. Wisconsin has a tough schedule with an early conference game against Nebraska, and two road games against Michigan State, and Ohio State later on in the year. If the Badgers are able to pull out those victories they have a good shot at going undefeated. Bret Bielema led the 2010 Wisconsin Badgers team to a Rose Bowl appearance, and with the returning starters coming back in 2011 the team looks like a top 5 football program in the country.

Wilson stated that he's a competitor, and he is willing to come to Wisconsin to compete for the starting Quarterback position. Wilson also stated that he was impressed by the Wisconsin coaching staff, fans, and players on the team. Wilson likes the system that the Badgers run, and he feels totally blessed to be in this situation.

NFL's Top 100 as voted by the NFL Players rankings (50 to 41)

Umaru Lamin, Sports Writer DGT Sports

The countdown continues with the NFL Top 100. We're to the point where all the players ranked are now household names. Today we rank players from 50 down to 41. Many of the players ranked are multi Pro Bowl selections.

50. W. Welker Patriots, WR

Wes Welker a 7th year Pro is a perennial league leader in receptions. Welker caught 86 passes, and 7 touchdowns last year after missing the ladder portion of the 2009 season with a torn ACL. Welker is arguably the best slot Receiver in the NFL today, and he has 3 Pro Bowl selections to his arsenal. Welker has had a year to recover from the serious injury he suffered in 2009, so look him to bounce back with a 100 reception season for the slot position.

49. B. Urlacher Bears, LB

Brian Urlacher is an 11 year Pro who bounced back from a injury plagued season in 2009. Urlacher was selected to his 7th Pro Bowl appearance in 2010 after registering 125 tackles. Urlacher is one of the best middle linebackers in the NFL, and he has the motor that always keeps him around the football. Urlacher was able to register 125 tackles in 2010 in leading the Bears defense to the NFC Championship Game. Look for Urlacher to have another consistent year in 2011, and possibly make the top 50 again next year.

48. C. Bailey Broncos, DB

Champ Bailey completed his 12th year in 2010 making his 10th Pro Bowl appearance. Bailey is still a shut down Corner in a passing league with a lot of excellent young Wide Receivers. Bailey totaled only 2 interceptions in 2010, primarily because opposing Quarterbacks didn't throw in his direction. Bailey still has the ability to shut down one half of the football field after 12 years in the league. Bailey delivers the consistency that should net him a similar position after the 2011 season.

47. N. Mangold Jets, C

Nick Mangold finished his 5th season in 2010 with his 3rd straight Pro Bowl selection. Mangold is the anchor of the Jets offensive line that features a run happy offense. Mangold is strong with both run, and pass blocking and his performance should continue to place him in the Top 50. Look for another strong year in 2011 for Mangold and another Pro Bowl selection.

46. T. Gonzalez Atlanta, TE

Tony Gonzalez made his 11th Pro Bowl in 2010 in his 14th year in the NFL. Gonzalez was able a key target for Matt Ryan on key passing situations in 2010. Gonzalez is on the back side of his career, but I look for him to put up solid numbers again in 2011. A top 50 ranking might be a stretch but don't put it past the future Hall of Famer.

45. D. Bowe Chiefs, WR

Dwayne Bowe had a touchdown filled season in his 4th year recording 15 TD's from the Receiver position. Bowe is a very explosive Wide Out who is also very physical off the line of scrimmage. Bowe has the talent to climb into the top 30 if he's able to match his touchdown output in 2010. Bowe is difficult cover on the outside and his maturity in his 4th season show he has what it takes to be one of the leagues best Wide Out.

44. R. Mathis Colts, DE

Robert Mathis has played 8 years in the NFL, and he completed the 2010 season with his 3rd Pro Bowl selection. Mathis completes the duo as a tandem end with Dwight Freeney. Mathis recorded 11 sacks in 2010, and he has one of the best motors on the defensive side of the football. Mathias will record another double sack number in 2011, while making the top 100 for the coming season.

43. J. Thomas Cleveland, OT

Joe Thomas completed his 4th year with the Browns, and he has made Pro Bowl in each of those seasons. Thomas is one of the best left tackles in the NFL, and he has been each of the last few seasons. Thomas is very consistent on pass protection, and sealing Defensive lineman on running plays. Joe Thomas will be a Pro Bowler in 2011, and he will climb higher in the Top 100 ranking.

42. M. Turner Falcons, RB

Michael Turner completed his 7th year as a Pro Bowl selection for the 2nd time in his career. Turner rushed for close to 1,300 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Turner is one of the most physical Running Backs in the NFL, and he is a key component to the Falcons offensive. Turner should maintain his position in 2011 by posting similar rushing, and touchdown numbers. Look for another top 40 ranking in 2011 for Turner.

41. B. Roethlisberger Steelers, QB

Ben Roethlisberger was able to bounce back after sitting out the first 4 games of his 7th season. Roethlisberger is one of the top Quarterbacks in the NFL, however he has only 1 Pro Bowl appearance primarily because of the competition at the Quarterback position in the AFC. Roethlisberger was still able to throw 17 touchdowns with only 5 interceptions in leading the Steelers to a Super Bowl appearance. Look for Roethlisberger to put up stronger numbers in a full season in 2011, where he might be able to crack the top 30 ranking.

Sources say Terrell Owens had ACL Surgey on knee this past month

Umaru Lamin, Sports Writer DGT Sports

Sources say Terrell Owens had ACL surgery on one of his knees this past month. Owens the 37 year old Wide Receiver completed his 15th year with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2010. Owens apparently hurt his knee while filming The T.O. Show, according to sources from ESPN. Look for middle to later part of November as the earliest time before Owens is able to return. Owens trails only Jerry Rice on the all-time NFL receiving yards, and touchdown reception list.

Owens was unavailable for comment on the reported injury. Owens was a free agent who was looking to sign with possible teams going into his 16th year. Owens has been known for being a quick healer when dealing with serious injuries. Don't count Owens out, as he'll look to prove his doubters wrong after suffering his latest setback.

NFL's Top 100 as voted by the NFL Players rankings (60 to 51)

Umaru Lamin, Sports Writer DGT Sports

The countdown continues with our rankings of NFL Top 100 players. We analyze the countdown from 60 to 51. We start to see the best of the best on the countdown so let's make our assessment.

60. J. Tuck Giants, DE

Jason Tuck has 6 years of services in the NFL for the New York Giants. Tuck is one of the strongest Defensive Ends in the NFL. Tuck is a two time Pro Bowler who had a strong year in 2010 posting 12 sacks for the Giants. Last year was a Pro Bowl season for Tuck who has the ability to post a high volume of tackles for a DE. Tuck totaled 76 tackles, and his ability to always be around the ball is an attribute that makes him one of the best DE in football. If Tuck stays healthy he should have another big year, and he'll possibly move up the Top 100 list.

59. J. Saturday Colts, G

Jeff Saturday is a 12 year NFL player who is arguably the best Center in the NFL. Saturday is a 5 time Pro Bowler who received the nomination in 2010. Saturday is the leader of the offensive line led by Peyton Manning. Saturday is responsible for making the calls of the highly sophisticated Colts offensive. Saturday is one of the most consistent players in the Top 100, and I look for him to maintain his same position during the 2011 season.

58. B. Lloyd Broncos, WR

Brandon Lloyd was one of the comeback players of the year in 2010. Lloyd completed his 8th year in 2010 with his first Pro Bowl selection. Lloyd led all Wide Receivers in yardage totaling almost 1,500 yards. Lloyd average over 18 yards per catch, and he was also able to post 11 touchdowns during the season. The bull's eye will be out on Lloyd to see if he's able to post similar numbers in 2011. If will be difficult for Lloyd to fly under the radar, so look for a possible regression this year. It may be difficult for Lloyd to crack the same list at this time next year, although you have to be happy Lloyd has been able to resurrect his career.

57. A. Gurode Cowboys, C

Andre Gurode is a 9 year Pro who is a top Center in the league. Gurode is a 5 time Pro Bowler who made the honors in 2010. Gurode is the leader of the line that ignites the Cowboys explosive offensive. Gurode has made the Pro Bowl the past 3 years, and I expect him to compete for another selection in 2011. Gurode is one of the top offensive lineman in the NFL.

56. R. Rice Ravens, RB

Ray Rice has completed his 3rd year as the Ravens Running Back. Rice is a one time Pro Bowler who is ascending into the ranks as one of the NFL's best Running Backs. Rice was able to post 1,200 yards in 2010, however he only scored 5 touchdowns. Rice should improve on his touchdown numbers in 2011. I look for Rice to post double digits touchdowns, and be in contention as one of the leaders in scoring this upcoming season.

55. C. Nicks Saints, C

Carl Nicks completed his 3rd year in the NFL with his first Pro Bowl selection. Nicks is impressive player who will be one of the top lineman for years to come. Nicks is one of the anchors on the Saints line who protect Drew Brees, and the explosive Saints passing game. Nicks will continue to climb the Top 100 list, and look for him to have a higher ranking after the 2011 season.

54. A. Samuel Eagles, CB

Asante Samuel completed his 8th year in 2010 for the Eagles. Samuel has been selected to the Pro Bowl the last 4 years. Samuel posted 7 interceptions in 2010 tying him for number 2 in the league. Samuel is one of the biggest gamblers from the Defensive Back position, and he should post another high interception number in 2011. Samuel's risk taking style will post high numbers, and his ranking should stay consistent again in 2011.

53. M. Colston Saints, WR

Marques Colston completed his 5th year in the 2010 season. Colston is one of the most consistent Wide Receivers in the game today. Colston has the ability to go deep, and also catch tough passes across the middle. Surprisingly Colston doesn't have any Pro Bowl appearances but his ranking should stay consistent in the 2011 season.

52. M. Ryan Falcons, QB

Matt Ryan completed his 3rd year in 2010 with his first Pro Bowl appearance. Ryan is one of the good young Quaterbacks in the NFL who led the Falcons to the best mark in the NFC in 2010. Ryan posted 28 Touchdowns in 2010, and the Falcons where able to showcase a very explosive passing offense during the year. Ryan should be in the Top 50 after the 2011 season as the Falcons are developing into one of the best teams in the NFL. Look for Ryan to be in the Top 40 for years to come.

51. N. Suh Lions, DT

Ndamakong Suh was one of the best rookie players in the entire league in 2010. Suh posted 10 sacks as a rookie, and 66 tackles which is a high number for a Defensive Tackle. Suh was a Pro Bowler as a Rookie, and he is already considered one of the best Defensive Tackles in the league after just one season. Suh will make a dramatic climb in 2011 on the NFL Top 100 list. I look for him to be a top 20 player after the 2011 season. Suh is developing into one of the best players in the league.

Former Florida Standout Defensive Back Janoris Jenkins signs with North Alabama

Umaru Lamin, DGT Sports Writer

Former Florida Gator standout Defensive Back Janoris Jenkins signed with North Alabama Wednesday, the school announced. The Defense Back was an All-American candidate who was considered a 1st round pick in this years April NFL draft. Jenkins will play for Terry Bowden the former Auburn coach who is now in his 3rd season coaching North Alabama. Jenkins was dismissed from Florida in April after getting arrested twice in less than 3 months. Bowden talked with Jenkins former coach at Florida Urban Meyer, current coach Will Muschamp, and Athletic Director Jeremy Foley before signing the talented Cornerback.

Jenkins, 22 enters the season with one more year of college eligibility. Jenkins had considered entering the supplemental draft, but decided to come back and play football in his final season. With a strong performance for the Division II program Jenkins hopes to certify his status as a high pick in the 2012 NFL draft.

NFL's Top 100 as voted by the NFL Players rankings (70 to 61)

Umaru Lamin, Sports Writer DGT Sports

We continue the countdown of the Top 100 NFL Players. Today we analyze the players ranked from 70 to 61. Please let us know your thoughts as the countdown continues. Please feel free to support our online advertisement sponsors.

70. M. Austin Dallas, WR

Miles Austin is a 5 year player who has been a Pro Bowler the last 2 seasons. Austin has recorded over 1,000 yards the last 2 years, leading the Cowboys in receiving yards during those years. Austin is a speedy Receiver who is one of the best in stretching a defense. Austin was without his starting QB, Tony Romo for much of last year, and his touchdowns decreased to 7 in the 2010 season. If Austin is able to get back to double digits TD's I think he'll warrant his position. However Austin is more of a one dimensional deep threat, so I look for his position in the Top 100 to drop in 2011.

69. J. Abraham Atlanta, DE

John Abraham after 11 years in the league continues to be one of the best past rush specialist in the NFL. Abraham was one of the leaders in 2010 with 13.5 sacks. Abraham is a pure pass rusher who is able to instill havoc on tackles, and Quarterbacks. Abraham is a 4 time Pro Bowler with a recent selection in 2010. Abraham is on the back side of his career so he'll have to put up big numbers again in 2011 to maintain his position.

68. A. Rolle Giants, S

Antrel Rolle has played 5 years in the leagues and has the skills to play Safety, and Corner. In his first season with the Giants as Safety Rolle is already one of the leaders of the Giants secondary. Rolle is a 2 time Pro Bowler who is strong against the run, and pass. Rolle should continue to progress up the Top 100 ranking due in part to the aggressive style of defense played by the New York Giants. Look for Rolle to put up a high interception total in 2011.

67. B. Waters Chiefs, G

Brian Waters has played 11 years, and he is one of the top Guards in the NFL. Waters is a 5 time Pro Bowler, who achieved the honor in 2010. Waters is one of the anchors of the Chiefs offensive line, and he has maintained his consistency throughout his career. Look for Waters to put up another good year but it'll be interesting to see how he performs in his 12th year in the league.

66. R. Seymour Raiders, DT

Richard Seymour a 10 year veteran in the NFL posted another Pro Bowl year with the Raiders in 2010. That gives Seymour 6 Pro Bowls during his career. Seymour is one of those Defensive Tackles that is capable of rushing the Quarterback, and also stopping the run. Seymour has produced good numbers his entire career first with the Patriots, and now with the Raiders. Seymour is the leader of the Raiders defense, and he signed a two year extension with the Raiders as the highest paid defensive player in the league. Look for Seymour to have another strong year at the DT position.

65. V. Leach Texans, FB

Vonta Leach is a 7 year Fullback who you probably never hear about in a football. Leach is arguably the best fullback in the NFL today. Leach opened holes for Arian Foster, leading to a breakout year for the 1st time Pro Bowler. Look for Leach to go unnoticed again in 2011, but he'll probably maintain the title as the best FB in the league.

64. T. Hali Chiefs, DE

Tamba Hali is a 5 year Pro who was voted to his 1st Pro Bowl in 2011. Hali is developing into one of the best Defensive Ends in the game today. Hali was a league leader in sacks in 2010 totaling 14.5 sacks for the Kansas City Chiefs. Hali is the anchor of their defensive line, and one of their leaders on defense. Hali is one of the individuals on the Top 100 that will continue to climb in the coming year. Look for Hali to crack the Top 30 for next season.

63. C. Wake Dolphins, DE

Cameron Wake completed his 3rd year in 2010, and his performance netted him his 1st Pro Bowl appearance. Wake was a league leader with 14 sacks for the Dolphins in 2010. Wake is fierce pass rusher who always seems to be chasing down the opposing Quarterback. Look for another strong year from Wake in 2011, and I look for Wake to maintain or move up on his ranking in the Top 100.

62. J. Mayo Patriots, LB

Jerod Mayo completed his 3rd year in the NFL and he already is one of the best Linebackers in the league. Mayo was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2010, and he was the league leader with 175 tackles. Mayo is like a magnet around the football that doesn't miss assignments, or tackles. Mayo is already one of the leaders of the Patriots defense, and I look for Mayo to make a significant jump into the Top 40 ranking next year. Look for multiple All Pro Selections for the 4th year Linebacker.

61. B. Marshall Dolphins, WR

Brandon Marshall is a 5 year NFL Wide Receiver who missed a couple games due to injury in 2010. Marshall is a 2 time Pro Bowler who was only able to score 3 touchdowns in 2010. Look for Marshall to have a breakout year in 2011. Marshall should increase his touchdown, and yardage output positioning him for another Pro Bowl appearance. Marshall should increase his ranking into the Top 40 after the 2011 season.

Good feedback from Owners Meeting in Chicago

By Umaru Lamin, DGT Sports Writer

Feedback on yesterday meetings in Chicago between league Owners seems pretty positive. Owners met for under five hours to clarify the key concepts, and ideas for the new labor deal. Jeff Pash, the NFL Lead Negotiator stated, "there seems to be commitment by Ownership, and players." The key points now involving the negotiations involve the splitting of revenues between Owners and players. The prior labor deals included the players receiving 55 percent of revenues, and Owners receiving 45 percent, however Owners received the first one billion dollars in revenue. The new agreement may not include the one billion dollars of revenue off the top, but instead the Owners are looking to gain 52 percent of league revenue compared to the players 48 percent of league revenues.

With league revenues expected to grow over the coming years Owners would see increase in revenue due to the growth. Players on the other hand are willing to give up some percentages of revenue if Owners are forced to spend 95 percent of cash on annual player salaries. Under a normal salary cap Owners are able to account for spending on player salaries, however a portion of that spending isn't attributed to cash spending. Under a normal cap a team can spend 100 million in one year in salary cap, but the cash number could be 90 million with 10 million accounted for during the next year. Players want more of that 100 million dollars spent on salary in cash for the present year.

Owners seem united on the philosophical ideas, and the priorities seem to be the same. The next meetings are scheduled for Wednesday, and Thursday in Boston between Owners, and players. With the momentum now in full swing it looks as if both sides are close to coming together for a new CBA agreement.