Puffins Notebook: Robinson in, Hakim out

The Puffins have moved a few spots closer to being atop the waiver claims list, as they once again did not submit a claim this week. But, as usual, they made a roster move first thing Wednesday morning, adding WR Marcus Robinson. Getting the heave-ho was Az Hakim.
GM Derek Harlan's reasoning was pretty simple. "A couple of things factored in to this. One, we knew once Joe Horn was healthy Az would probably be sitting, and with him being banged up as well...it just didn't bode well for him. And two, we've been taking a chance all year with that final receiver spot. With Robinson having a new QB for the remainder of the year, who knows? Maybe he and Brad Johnson will have that 'connection' you hear guys like Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson talk about. We'll see."

In other news...
...the organization is pumped up about this weekend's showdown with the Kamikaze Maddogs. Stated Harlan, "I think there's a lot of mutual respect between the teams. We would've liked to have played this one earlier in the year when the 'Dogs had that run of bad luck, but it should be fun."...the drama from Sunday's benching of Eli Manning still has some buzzing. Says one team source, "I think there will be some eyebrows raised once everything is out there, but that's all I can say."...Tuesday night was opening night in NBA and some team members definitely have their favorites. "I know I should be a Hornets fan, but after spending some time in San Antonio and getting to know some of they players, I'm really pulling for the Spurs to repeat," said WR Donte Stallworth. Most others are fans of the teams from the city in which they play, including L.J. Smith (Sixers), Reggie Wayne (Pacers), and Mike Williams (Pistons)...following his benching on Sunday, Eli Manning had this to say, "I'm just gonna keep my mouth shut and keep working hard. I guess some folks around here don't want to hear about who I'm hooking up with or not hooking up with, so whatever. Although, I must say, the keg is definitely not dry." Thanks for the info Eli.