Daniel Murphy's strong return in 2011

One of the biggest fears of athletes is returning to original form after injury. Former Englewood star Daniel Murphy had to return after two injuries-- to his knee. After a stellar rookie season in 2008 where Murphy batted .313 in 131 at-bats and a nice sophomore year leading the anemic New York Mets in homers (with 12), he hurt his knee in spring training of 2010. While rehabbing in the minor leagues he suffered another knee injury which kept him out for the season. He has returned to form offensively and has become a more solid fielder (at many positions) for the Mets this year, with many pointing to Murphy (who was also a star at JU) as one of the few answers in a year full of questions for the Mets. He is currently batting .318 with a slugging percetage of .454

Jason Spitz comes home

Earlier this year, Bolles grad Jason Spitz got a Super Bowl ring as a member of the Green Bay Packers; now he gets to play in his hometown. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed the free agent guard Thursday and with  the Jags cutting Vince Manuwai, Spitz is possibly the heir apparent for Manuwai's starting job. Spitz started his first three years with the Packers, but a back injury cost him his starting position in 2009. He played in all of the Packers games last season, mostly on special teams. He will wear number 67 for the Jags.

Nicholas Re-signs with Falcons

Lee High graduate Stephen Nicholas is staying with the Atlanta Falcons. D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Nicholas' deal is worth 17.5 million dollars over 5 years. Nicholas has made 25 starts in the past couple of seasons for the Birds.