SOURCE: SEARCH CALLED OFF FOR MISSING BOAT

A source with knowledge of the tragic situation that has unfolded over the past two days in Florida tells us that the authorities have called off the search for a 21-foot fishing boat carrying two NFL players. We’re told that the boat left from Seminole, not Clearwater, and followed the Intercoastal Waterway. A search for debris was conducted from Sand Key, which is south of Clearwater, all the way to Anclote in Pasco County. As it was explained to us, unless the men made it onto another vessel or managed to navigate 13-foot waves in that 21-foot boat, it’s not looking good. So at a time when we’re down in the dumps to cap a weekend of technical troubles, our measly challenges are in sharp perspective. Say a prayer for Raiders linebacker Marquise Cooper, Lions defensive end Corey Smith, Nick Skyler, and William Bleakley, and for each of their families.