[Hache Man]

NFL Rumor Central: Lelie playing hardball

Other Rumors: MLB | NBA

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Thursday, July 6
WHO	WHAT	THE SKINNY
Ashley Lelie Broncos	Trade	Lelie playing hardball Lelie doesn't plan to take part in Denver's mandatory three-day minicamp (July 6-8), and the wide receiver appears to be holding firm on his threat to sit out the season unless he's traded. The Broncos shopped Lelie during April's draft but could not find a satisfactory deal. It's believed Denver is trying to secure a tight end in return for Lelie, but contrary to published reports, the team has not offered the 26-year-old to the Patriots for Daniel Graham, according to ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli. The Broncos have made it clear to potential Lelie suitors that they want more than a late-round draft pick or a backup player for Lelie. Lelie, who is entering the final year of his contract, forfeited a $100,000 bonus by not participating in Denver's offseason conditioning program. If he follows through on his threat to sit out the season, he'll lose another $1.3 million in salary and bonuses. He also faces possible fines by the team.
Friday, June 30
WHO	WHAT	THE SKINNY
Priest Holmes Chiefs	Return?	Holmes planning to play Holmes, who is recovering from a neck injury, reitorated his desire to play next season, the Washington Times reports. "Why wouldn't I?" the three-time Pro Bowl pick said when asked if he wanted to keep playing. "I feel great. Medically, what I've been told is that I need to wait and not make a quick decision based on the feeling [that] I can get out there. I believe at the end of the day, it's my final decision. Will I take what [the doctors] say to heart and really think about it? I will once the time comes." The 33-year-old has been seeing spinal specialist Robert Watkins, and still hasn't been cleared for contact. Injuries kept him out of 17 of 32 games the past two seasons.