Tim Brown: Lot to Like in Lilly

A lot of players have a lot to prove this season. Whether coming back from an injury, underperforming last season, taking on a greater role with the club, or simply starting out with a new team, the NFL is filled with players who have something to prove to themselves, teammates, and fans.

I wrote in an earlier column about Reggie Bush, the running back for the Saints. I talked about how he has a ton of potential and is making the commitment during the off season to bounce back from a sophomore slump last year. It's a sign that he has the hunger and knows it takes more than just talent to survive in the league.

Bush is hardly alone. Some players want to do better, others just need to do better. The Carolina Pathers' Jake Delhomme is coming off Tommy John elbow surgery - he missed most of last year due to injury.. Teammates are reportedly saying he looks to be in good shape and is ahead of schedule for his return.

Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers will have a lot to prove and it has nothing to do with his abilities. He is stepping into the shoes of Brett Farve, a legend in Green Bay - and to many fans all over the country. Its never easy to follow such an act, but the spotlight will be on Rodgers.

Others, like Tommie Harris, will have high expectations placed on them. The Bears' defensive tackle signed a four-year extension worth about $40 million -- $18 million of which is guaranteed. With the deal, Harris becomes the highest-paid defensive tackle in the history of the league.

---

At the time of publication, Brown had no positions in stocks mentioned, although positions may change at any time.

Tim Brown played 16 seasons in the NFL, where he made nine Pro Bowls. After a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2004, Brown retired as an Oakland Raider. He was a Heisman Trophy winner in college for Notre Dame.