Former NFL running back Eddie George, like a lot of Nashville citizens, is having a hard time coming to grips with the fact that Steve McNair is dead and that he was murdered.

It’s not often that we go into our private closet to discuss issues and conversations one might have with our closest friends. The tragic death of Steve McNair has harkened such a conversation I had with my 20-plus year friend, Deion Sanders. We are both married and one day we were discussing the incredibly high divorce rate among celebrities and athletes.

Police report McNair was shot several times, while a female friend died nearby in the condo of a single gunshot wound. Police will not classify the nature of the crime at this point, but also say they are seeking no suspects at this time as well.

The NFL has lost a true gladiator with the tragic shooting death of Steve McNair. As I reflect on McNair’s career, I think of the inspiration he represents to players across the league, but particularly, players from small schools.

The former Pro Bowler and NFL MVP was found dead today from a gunshot wound, leaving behind a vibrant legacy as a player and human being.

Get the latest news and notes, including Bears LB Brian Urlacher explaining why he was curious about talk that the team might have pursued free-agent WR Plaxico Burress.

Thanks for all the comments to Thursday’s Brett Favre post, which I believe points to a mutually beneficial relationship with the off-again, on-again potential retiree.

The first full day in Iraq began with an early wake up call and included meet-and-greets with US troops Mosul and Kirkuk before wrapping up with a Q&A with hundreds of troops at a reception in Baghdad.

The trip to Iraq is never easy, and this tour is no exception. But we are looking forward to a number of full, exciting and meaningful days ahead.

We have to keep some perspective about NFL players getting in trouble off the field. The expectation among the populous that NFL players are supposed to be perfect because they were given the right to play football is ludicrous to me.

A few of the topics you’ll see on Thursday’s NFL Total Access on NFL Network include Rod Woodson’s top five safeties, the top available veteran free agents, which coaches could be on the hot seat this season and the Chicago Bears at No. 14 in the “32 Teams in 32 Days” series.

The NFL’s supplemental draft will take place July 16, and three players who have a chance of being selected are Kansas State WR Deon Murphy, Western Kentucky LB Blake Boyd and Southern Mississippi WR Torris Magee.

Titans RB LenDale White has worked hard to lose weight during the offseason, and he plans to keep pushing until training camp starts, according to the Tennessean.

The NFL announced that it has given Jets LB Calvin Pace a four-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

A lot of big-name free agents are still out there, and some will find work at some point this summer.