George

The toe injury that nagged Titans halfback Eddie George last year dropped his rushing average from 3.7 to 3 yards per carry, but tape reviews discovered a fixable problem. George, who runs with a world-class stride, shortened his steps last season because of the injury, so he's spending the offseason working with Jerry Rice's trainer.

The intense workouts include a lot of hill-running. After observing George at the Titans' most recent minicamp, coach Jeff Fisher believes George has regained his old stride.

Bulking up
Saints coach Jim Haslett felt quarterback Aaron Brooks spent so much time working on the mental aspect of being a fulltime starter that he neglected getting his body ready to survive a full season. Brooks' weight dropped more than 10 pounds to 206 by December and he threw 13 interceptions in the final four games. Extra weightlifting has pushed Brooks' weight into the 220s, which he promises to maintain for the entire season.

Drought continues
General managers returning from last week's spring meeting of the two scouting combines believe a linebacker drought will enter its third season. Dan Morgan of the Panthers, Napoleon Harris of the Raiders and Robert Thomas of the Rams were the only first-round choices in the past two drafts and none in the top 10. E.J. Henderson of Maryland and Mario Haggan of Mississippi State have the best chances of being taken in the first round depending on how many underclassmen at other positions turn pro.

Division of the tight end
The Bills are hoping tight end Jay Riemersma will restructure his contract to avoid being cut because coordinator Kevin Gilbride wants to run a lot of two tight-end sets. After catching only 11 percent of their teams' passes last season, AFC East tight ends likely will have an expanded role this season. Dolphins coordinator Norv Turner, a big believer in throwing to tight ends, plans to throw a lot to rookie Randy McMichael and veteran Alonzo Mayes. The Patriots have first-round choice Daniel Graham along with Christian Fauria and Cam Cleeland, and the Jets drafted Chris Baker to challenge Anthony Becht.

John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com.