Land Of Hope And Dreams

The NFL Draft takes place this weekend in N.Y., and despite the Dolphins taking the suspense out of the No. 1 pick by signing Jake Long earlier this week, there are plenty of storylines heading into the event. This draft class does not carry the panache and star power of recent years, but Nike reportedly secures the services of Darren McFadden, perhaps the player with the most marketing potential. McFadden also is a hot topic in many teams' front offices, as Year Two of Roger Goodell’s personal conduct policy has some front offices as concerned with character as they are with on-field prowess. Meanwhile, viewers on ESPN and the NFL Network can expect even more wall-to-wall coverage than usual with the event beginning later than the traditional noon start. Also in today's issue: former Redskins and Texans GM Charley Casserly lifts the curtain on the fabled draft war room.

Racing In The Streets
Full Throttle signs deal to replace Powerade as title sponsor of NHRA's top series.

My Beautiful Reward
TNT's NBA Playoffs ratings through nine games up 16% over '07 coverage.

Spirit In The Night
L.A. TIMES architecture critic notes $500M planned Dodger Stadium upgrades designed to extend visitor time at ballpark.

The Promised Land
Pittsburgh Mayor, local execs in messy dispute over potential Steelers land purchase.

Girls In Their Summer Clothes
TMS using bikini-clad Danica Patrick on billboards advertising its June IRL race.

The Ties That Bind
Newly uncovered e-mails show NBA previously worried Bennett breached "good faith" clause in Sonics contract.

Local Hero
EA Sports pegs recently retired Brett Favre as cover athlete for "Madden NFL 09."

Don't Look Back
RazorGator Experiences' David Lord leaving for children's education software company.