Maddox agrees to contract extension
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Tommy Maddox agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension, signing with the team through 2007.
Maddox and Steelers president Art Rooney II didn’t discuss terms of the deal, but both agreed the contract will enable Maddox to remain with the team after first-round draft pick Ben Roethlisberger succeeds him.
“It’s structured fairly for both sides,” Maddox said. “If I continue to play … I can continue to make pretty good money.”
If Maddox does not play, his pay will adjust accordingly, allowing him to stay with the team for several years as a backup.
“It’s obviously a very unique situation,” Maddox said. “And with them drafting Ben this year, it became even more unique.”
The Steelers finished 6-10 last season.
Lewis certain he will be cleared of drug charges
Jamal Lewis is certain he will be cleared of drug conspiracy charges, insisting his pending trial has not hindered his preparation with the Baltimore Ravens for the 2004 season.
The star running back is accused in Atlanta of helping set up a cocaine deal for a childhood friend during conversations with a government informant in July 2000. The trial could start as soon as August.
“I am innocent. … I’m very confident that my legal team will show I’m innocent,” he said Monday, the first day of a mandatory minicamp.
Lewis and Angelo Jackson, who both grew up in the same area of Atlanta, are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms of cocaine and using a cell phone in violation of federal law.
For now, it’s ‘The Bachelor’ at QB for Giants
The No. 1 pick in the draft and the guy with two MVP trophies and a Super Bowl ring stood in the back when the New York Giants offense began its drills at Monday’s minicamp.
Instead, “The Bachelor” led the way.
Jesse Palmer, who gained fame for his appearance on the reality TV show this summer, is currently the starting quarterback ahead of Eli Manning and Kurt Warner.
“He has responded very well to the coaching and to what he has been asked to do,” new coach Tom Coughlin said. “He is the guy who has really done a very good job of doing exactly what he has been coached to do.”