NFL Rumors: Pro Sports Daily

Hester expects to play; Boldin less certain

Comment

November 7

Chicago Sun-Times

"The Bears won't be without their top wide receiver, and the Arizona Cardinals just might have their No. 2 guy after all Sunday at Soldier Field. Devin Hester returned to practice for the first time this week on Friday with his sprained right ankle and participated in portions of practice. He looked fine running around, and although he's listed as questionable on the injury report, he's expected to start. The Cardinals also got wide receiver Anquan Boldin back on the field Friday in a limited capacity, and he also is questionable. Boldin suffered a high ankle sprain on Oct. 11 and was knocked out of last Sunday's loss to the Carolina Panthers. He has vowed to play, and the Bears are ..."

Colts' secondary absorbs more hits

Comment

November 7

Indianapolis Star

"Two years ago, it appeared the Indianapolis Colts had the makings of one of the NFL's outstanding secondaries. Two weeks ago, it appeared it was all about to come together. Not this year. Safety Bob Sanders has been placed on injured reserve and will require season-ending surgery to repair a torn biceps, and starting cornerback Kelvin Hayden is expected to miss up to four weeks with a knee injury, the club announced Friday. With the season-ending knee injury cornerback Marlin Jackson suffered in practice Wednesday, free safety Antoine Bethea will be the only member of the projected starting secondary on the field Sunday when the Houston Texans meet the Colts in a key AFC South game at ..."

Roddy White expected to play

Comment

November 7

Atlanta Journal-Constitution

"Falcons wide receiver Roddy White and offensive tackle Sam Baker returned to practice Friday. White (knee) and Baker (ankle) did not practice Thursday, but were limited in their participation on Friday. "I anticipate them being ready to go on Sunday afternoon," Falcons coach Mike Smith said."

Westbrook only "questionable"

Comment

November 7

Camden Courier-Post

"There's still an air of uncertainty about whether or not Brian Westbrook will play Sunday night against the Cowboys. The Eagles' running back was withheld from practice Friday after taking most of the first-team reps on Wednesday and Thursday and is listed on the team's official report as "questionable" - a 50 percent chance to play, in NFL jargon. But coach Andy Reid seemed to suggest that Westbrook would play and was only held out of practice because of the recent workload. "He's had two hard days of work and, really, the young kid [LeSean McCoy] hasn't gotten a ton of reps," Reid said. "Like I've done on some othe Fridays, I kept Brian out." The uncertainty lies in the injury report. ..."

Colts' injury woes mount: Marlin Jackson, Anthony Gonzalez, Bob Sanders

Comment

November 6

Indianapolis Star

"The Indianapolis Colts have placed cornerback Marlin Jackson on injured reserve and filled his roster spot by signing free agent defensive end Josh Thomas. The club also announced that on Thursday wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez underwent arthroscopic right knee surgery to "clean out loose particles" and safety Bob Sanders visited Dr. James Andrews to get an opinion on the left elbow injury Sanders suffered on Sunday against San Francisco. Jackson tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a non-contact drill on Wednesday and will require season-ending knee surgery. Jackson also suffered a season-ending knee injury during practice last year. Gonzalez aggravated his injury ..."

Kevin Smith, Calvin Johnson look ready

Comment

November 6

Detroit News

"Lions running back Kevin Smith was back at practice Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout because of a shoulder injury he suffered in the third quarter of Sunday's loss to St. Louis. Both Smith and Maurice Morris took reps with the first-team offense in the portion of practice open to the media. Calvin Johnson continued to show no ill effects from the right knee injury that has sidelined him for the last two games. He worked with the first-team offense and certainly looked like he'll be ready for Sunday's game in Seattle. "We are just going to keep on taking it like we are," Johnson said. "We are going to be careful, do what I can do, and as long as I don't have any setbacks, things ..."

Devin Hester misses 2nd practice

Comment

November 6

Chicago Tribune

"Another practice passed with Devin Hester standing on the sidelines with an ankle injury, but no one seemed overly concerned about the possibility of the Bears' top receiver missing Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Hester said he is looking forward to practicing Friday. In Hester's absence the Bears coaches were able to give Johnny Knox and Devin Aromashodu more practice reps, which wasn't necessarily a bad thing. No secrets: An interesting dynamic exists whenever Bears coach Lovie Smith faces Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner because Smith was the defensive coordinator on Rams teams Warner quarterbacked for three years. Smith said he considers Warner a friend for life -- but they ..."

Cushing limited, Cody held out of Texans practice

Comment

November 6

Houston Chronicle

"Defensive tackle Shaun Cody joined rookie linebacker Brian Cushing on the sidelines at Texans practice Thursday. Head coach Gary Kubiak said Cody received "an injection" for a back problem after missing Wednesday's workout. "I'm hoping he'll be able to practice tomorrow," Kubiak said. "We'll see. The back does concern us." Cushing, of course, has been limited in practice on a regular basis for several weeks now because of a sore foot. Not that it has mattered much, given that he has twice been named AFC Defensive Player of the Week since the injury occurred. "We're trying to get him through the bye (next week) clean and then he'll have time to rest his foot," Kubiak said. "We had him do ..."

Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder practices, hopes to play

Comment

November 6

Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel

"Miami Dolphins inside linebacker Channing Crowder practiced with limitations for the second straight day in nearly two weeks, and is optimistic he'll play in Sunday's 1 p.m. game against the New England Patriots. Crowder, one of the Dolphins' every down starting inside linebackers, missed last Sunday's win over the Jets because of a shoulder injury he suffered on Oct. 25th against the Saints. While Crowder, whose 22 tackles is fifth on the team, is practicing, and said he feels good physically, the team's being cautious with the former University of Florida standout. Reggie Torbor filled in for Crowder against the Jets, starting his second game as a Dolphin in two seasons, and contributed ..."

Lions RB Kevin Smith, WR Calvin Johnson practice today

Comment

November 6

Detroit Free Press

"Wide receiver Calvin Johnson and running back Kevin Smith continued to practice today. Both seem likely to play Sunday at Seattle, though Lions coach Jim Schwartz likely will not tip his hand. Johnson has missed two games with a injured right knee. Smith left the Lions' last game with a shoulder problem."

'Big Baby' wants to play in NFL

Comment

November 5

ESPN.com

"Glen "Big Baby" Davis has no regrets about choosing basketball over football. That's because he's achieved success and a championship with the Boston Celtics -- and also because he doesn't believe his days on the football field are over. Davis, the Celtics' 6-foot-9, 290-pound forward, said he eventually wants to play in the NFL. "I will try it," said Davis, who's on the injured list for six weeks with a broken right thumb sustained in a fight. "When I become an All-Star in the NBA, when I become a great player in the NBA, then I'll try football. One of my dreams has always been to play football." Davis was a terrific two-way football player at University Laboratory High School in Baton ..."

Devin Hester out of practice with ankle injury

Comment

November 5

Chicago Tribune

"Bears receiver Devin Hester sat out Wednesday but said he expects to return to practice this week after suffering an ankle injury Sunday. Hester said a Browns defender fell on his ankle on a screen pass in the 30-6 victory over the Browns. "Just a little swollen," Hester said. "I'll be ready." Coincidentally, Cardinals receiver Anquan Boldin, a player the Bears considered trading for, is sidelined by a right ankle sprain but expects to play against the Bears. Scaling back? After the Bears scored just two touchdowns on seven trips to the red zone against the Browns, an upset Ron Turner said the lack of execution could lead to simplifying the offense."

Browns coach Eric Mangini will help pick new general manager

Comment

November 4

Cleveland Plain Dealer

"Cleveland Browns coach Eric Mangini said today he'll have input into the hiring of the team's new general manager. Mangini's first hand-picked general manager, George Kokinis, parted ways with the Browns on Monday, with no word from either side on whether he was fired or resigned. "Yeah, Randy and I talk a lot, so I'm sure we'll be very engaged in that (decision),'' said Mangini. Asked if it would hard to add a GM midway through the NFL season, he said, "we're just going through the process, so I'm not sure how that will all play out. We have to really see what's there, see what's available." He indicated that the Browns have strong enough pro and college departments to function without a ..."

Westbrook may return for Dallas

Comment

November 3

Camden Courier-Post

"How many points can the Eagles score when Brian Westbrook returns? They should find out Sunday night against the Cowboys if the Eagles' running back can continue to make progress in his recovery from a concussion sustained against Washington. Coach Andy Reid said Westbrook has been exercising and would continue to do aerobic workouts in preparation for Wednesday's first practice of the week. Westbrook experienced a slight headache Saturday, which factored into the coach's decision to withhold the back from the Giants game. "He felt good during the exercise that he did this past weekend," Reid said. "(The headache) wasn't anything to worry too much about. We'll just see how he does here the ..."

Kubiak in no rush to name starter at running back

Comment

November 3

Houston Chronicle

"Texans coach Gary Kubiak didn't disclose Monday who will start at running back against Indianapolis but said Steve Slaton, Ryan Moats and Chris Brown will see action. "I'm going to play them all," he said. "I'm in no hurry to make that decision, but, obviously, we're going to need all three of them. We'll make a decision when we get to Indianapolis." Slaton has been the starter but was benched Sunday after losing his fifth fumble of the season at Buffalo. Moats played for the second time this season and finished with 23 carries for 126 yards and a team-record three TDs. The starter must be able to block and catch as well as run. "Protecting Matt (Schaub) is a huge priority," Kubiak said. ..."

Chiefs safeties Page, McGraw may miss Jacksonville game

Comment

November 3

Kansas City Star

"The Chiefs could be without free safeties Jarrad Page and Jon McGraw for Sunday's game against the Jaguars in Jacksonville. Page was absent when the Chiefs returned to practice Monday. A player's absence from practice for medical reasons usually indicates a serious injury. Coach Todd Haley wouldn't talk about Page's absence other than to say he suffered a new injury in last Thursday's practice and would disclose more information as soon as today. McGraw's injury, which the Chiefs haven't specified, doesn't appear as serious as Page's. But he could also miss the Jaguars game. McGraw didn't practice Monday, but he was riding a stationary bicycle in a corner of the practice field in the area ..."

Team to investigate allegations against Cable

Comment

November 3

Oakland Tribune

"The Raiders said Monday they will conduct "a serious evaluation" of the allegations against coach Tom Cable and that they have fired previous employees for inappropriate conduct. An ESPN story Sunday outlined Cable's alleged physical abuse of women from past relationships. The team issued two statements less than two hours after Cable's weekly news conference. Said the first: "Over the last few days, we learned of the allegations made against coach Cable, and we are, of course, aware of his response thereto. In conjunction with the league office, we will undertake a serious evaluation of this matter. We wish to be clear that we do not in any way condone or accept actions such as those ..."

Return of Boley, Canty provide Giant upgrade

Comment

November 3

New York Post

"Help is on the way to aid the ailing Giants defense. Linebacker Michael Boley and defensive tackle Chris Canty are both scheduled to take part in practice tomorrow when the Giants begin their on-field preparation for Sunday's game against the Chargers. Last week, the injured duo took part in some individual drills, but this week they will be pushed even further. They certainly are needed, with the Giants riding a three-game losing streak. Moving Boley, who has missed the last four games, to weak side linebacker and Canty, who has missed the past seven games, into the middle of the defensive line rotation would be significant upgrades for a defense that has allowed 112 points in the past ..."

Chargers part ways with Chambers

Comment

November 3

San Diego Union-Tribune

"The Chargers parted ways with Chris Chambers Monday. For so many reasons. Officially, and legitimately, the emergence of Malcom Floyd as a dependable target and big-play threat made the struggling Chambers expendable after two years in San Diego."

Westbrook closer to return

Comment

November 3

Camden Courier-Post

"How many points can the Eagles score when Brian Westbrook returns? They should find out Sunday night against the Cowboys if the running back can continue to make progress in his recovery from a concussion he sustained last Monday night against the Redskins. Less than 24 hours after the Eagles erupted for 40 points in their bludgeoning of the Giants, coach Andy Reid said Monday that Westbrook has been exercising and would continue to do aerobic workouts in preparation for Wednesday's first practice of the week. Westbrook experienced a slight headache on Saturday morning, which factored into the coach's decision to withhold him from the Giants game. "He felt good during the exercise that he ..."

LT Staley out 6 weeks with right knee sprain

Comment

November 3

San Jose Mercury News

"Joe Staley was perched on a stool in the 49ers locker room Monday, his right knee encased in a bulky brace. Not far away, Nate Clements stood in front of his locker, his right arm tucked in a sling. They shared more than pain from injuries suffered in Sunday's 18-14 loss to Indianapolis. Both are durable players who now for the first time in their pro careers will miss extended action — which is trouble for the reeling 49ers. The biggest blow is Staley. The team's best offensive lineman suffered sprains to two ligaments in his right knee and will miss six weeks. Clements, who had just lost his starting cornerback job, appears to have the more serious injury and is expected to be out six to ..."

ESPN uncovers more assault allegations

Comment

November 2

San Francisco Chronicle

"Two women said Raiders coach Tom Cable assaulted them multiple times in previous relationships, and Cable conceded he once hit a woman more than 20 years ago. An ex-wife and ex-girlfriend made their abuse claims to ESPN's "Outside the Lines," which aired Sunday before the Raiders played the Chargers. The allegations come 10 days after the Napa district attorney's office decided not to charge Cable with assaulting assistant Randy Hanson, who told police that Cable broke his jaw in an August training-camp altercation. Sandy Cable said her first husband hit her in the jaw in 1988. She obtained a restraining order and filed for divorce, according to the ESPN report. Tom Cable issued a ..."

Delhomme hospitalized, but tests come back OK

Comment

November 2

Charlotte Observer

"Delhomme expects to play next week against New Orleans Quarterback Jake Delhomme said Sunday he thinks he will be able to play next week when the Carolina Panthers play New Orleans in the Superdome. He was taken to a hospital during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 34-21 victory against the Arizona Cardinals after he was driven into the ground by defensive tackle Darnell Dockett. Delhomme said he had a CT scan of his sternum. "They hit me where it hurts," said Delhomme, whose injury was officially described as a chest contusion. "As soon as I got hit, I felt it immediately. I couldn't catch my breath and I felt like it was my sternum. "I got the CT scan and I think everything is good." ..."

Browns owner Randy Lerner says Mangini's job safe for now

Comment

November 2

Cleveland Plain Dealer

"Randy Lerner admitted Sunday that he's "sick about" the 1-7 Browns -- but not enough to fire coach Eric Mangini during the upcoming bye week. When asked specifically if he'd make a coaching change, the Browns owner said no. "I think I should evaluate me," he said, only half-jokingly. He indicated that he wasn't ready to give up on Mangini despite being obviously distraught about the state of the team. But he did strongly indicate that it's time for him to bring in a football authority who can help straighten out this mess. "There's absolutely no question about that," he said. "The highest priority that I have is a strong, credible, serious leader within the building to guide decisions in a ..."

Tommie Harris defensive about status with Chicago Bears

Comment

October 31

Chicago Tribune

"A serious Tommie Harris addressed the media Friday, his first public comments since his mysterious benching Sunday. Asked about the health of his left knee, Harris became a little defensive. "I don't even think that was an issue," Harris said. "I think somebody just made that up. So we'll just leave that alone." Asked if he had something to prove to Bears coach Lovie Smith, the three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle raised his tone a notch. "I don't have to show him anything," Harris said. "He knows what I can do. Everybody knows what I can do. I don't have to prove anything to anybody. "I prove it to myself. I owe it to my teammates. I owe it to this organization to get back to tip-top ..."

Lions' Johnson and Stafford making progress

Comment

October 30

Detroit Free Press

"The Lions appear to be encouraged by the injury progress of their two top stars on offense. Receiver Calvin Johnson, who missed the last game with a knee injury, returned to practice Thursday and quarterback Matthew Stafford continued to look fine in the early portion of practice open to reporters as he recovers from the right knee injury that has sidelined him for two games. Officially, Johnson and Stafford were listed as having limited practice. "Those guys are making progress," coach Jim Schwartz said. "Those guys are making good progress. We're happy with the progress they're making. I think both of them have a ways to go. The good thing is we still got a ways to Sunday." Stafford ..."

Chiefs, LJ working on a settlement

Comment

October 30

Kansas City Star

"The Chiefs and running back Larry Johnson are working on a settlement that could affect his future, Johnson's agent told The Star on Thursday. Peter Schaffer, who has represented Johnson for about a year, said in an e-mail that he was working on an appeal of Johnson's two-week suspension at the same time as he and the Chiefs are discussing a settlement. "Full bore on both," Schaffer wrote. Asked whether that settlement could involve Johnson's separation from the team, Schaffer wrote: "Not necessarily." Schaffer was later reached by phone Thursday night. When asked whether he expects Johnson to play with the Chiefs again, Schaffer said: "Larry Johnson is a member of the Chiefs right now." ..."

Edwards won't play Sunday

Comment

October 29

Buffalo News

"Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his first career home start for the Buffalo Bills on Sunday when the Houston Texans visit Ralph Wilson Stadium. It might not be on an interim basis, either. Despite starting quarterback Trent Edwards being medically cleared to return to practice after suffering a concussion Oct. 18 against the New York Jets, Bills coach Dick Jauron declared him out for Sunday's game, and more importantly would not commit to him as the starter when he is fully recovered. "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it," is all Jauron had to say about who might start when Edwards is healthy enough to play. Houston Chronicle staff discusses injuries and the Buffalo Bills. Fitzpatrick ..."

Darren McFadden will miss his fourth straight game Sunday

Comment

October 29

Contra Costa Times

"News, notes and quotes from Wednesday's open locker room and post-practice press briefing from coach Tom Cable: – The only two players players coming off long-term injuries that have a chance to play against San Diego, according to Cable, are left guard Robert Gallery (broken fibula) and wide receiver Chaz Schilens (foot). Gallery practiced in warmups and drills and got in a few reps. Schilens is still "real sore" and didn't practice at all. It's conceivable both could be back after the bye. – Running back Darren McFadden has been a ghost since his minor knee surgery. He hasn't been seen in the locker room during media availaibility since being injured nor has he been on the field during ..."

Bills work out journeyman QB Ramsey

Comment

October 29

Buffalo News

"The Bills gave a workout Tuesday to veteran quarterback Patrick Ramsey, according to a league source. Ramsey, 30, was released by Tennessee on Oct. 3. He had signed with the Titans in April to be the third stringer behind Kerry Collins and Vince Young. But the Titans cut him to make room for more cornerback depth. It remains to be seen how quickly Bills quarterback Trent Edwards can come back from his second concussion in a year. Bills coach Dick Jauron said Monday that Edwards began working out on Monday and was scheduled to begin football workouts today. However, Jauron said Edwards already has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Houston."

Look for changes at middle linebacker, left guard and defensive tackle

Comment

October 29

Chicago Tribune

"Changes are in the works for the Bears even if coach Lovie Smith refuses to divulge any information. He had a short fuse Wednesday when asked about possible lineup moves for Sunday's game against the Browns. Specifically, Smith was asked if the offensive line would remain status quo, as he proclaimed after a loss at Atlanta. It seems Josh Beekman is destined to replace Frank Omiyale as the starter at left guard. "I'm not going to talk about anything personnel-wise," Smith said with emphasis. "To me, that's pretty clear. If that's all you want to talk about, there's nothing else to talk about." Pressed on why he wouldn't disclose any changes, an irritated Smith snapped. "Just don't want to. ..."

NFL to share data on brain injuries

Comment

October 29

Washington Post

"NFL leaders told a House committee Wednesday that they will cooperate with the panel's plan to review data regarding the rate and severity of brain injuries suffered by football players, saying more research is needed to determine if there is a direct link between head injuries suffered while playing the sport and brain disease later in life. Rep. John Conyers Jr. (D-Mich.), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said during the hearing that "we need an expeditious independent review of all the data," and asked NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and DeMaurice Smith, the executive director of the NFL Players Association, if they would share medical information with the committee. ..."

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook could miss game against New York Giants

Comment

October 29

New York Daily News

"As commissioner Roger Goodell was defending the NFL's policies on concussions before Congress Wednesday, the Eagles were dealing with a head injury to Brian Westbrook and beginning the process of determining whether the star running back can take the field against the Giants on Sunday. Since Westbrook has always been the most vital part of the Eagles' offense, it might be tempting to rush him back after his head collided with the knee of Redskins linebacker Rocky McIntosh on Monday night. On his radio show Tuesday, Andy Reid said he was "counting on" Westbrook playing. Wednesday, however, he told reporters that Westbrook would not play until his series of week-long tests checked out, which ..."

Fisher to reveal Titans' QB plans on Thursday

Comment

October 28

Tennessean

"Justin Gage is like the rest of the Titans right now. The receiver knows there could be a change at quarterback for Sunday’s game against the Jaguars. “I shouldn’t say I sense it, but I think it is in the air right now,’’ Gage said Wednesday. “I am not sure how it is going to play out or what is going to go on. But … we have to be prepared for either quarterback.’’ So will it be Kerry Collins or Vince Young? Coach Jeff Fisher said he plans to announce the starter on Thursday. The coach declined to go into specifics about how reps were divided in Wednesday’s practice, and for the first time this season Collins and Young were off limits to reporters. So was offensive coordinator Mike ..."

Signs point against Westbrook's return

Comment

October 28

Philadelphia Inquirer

"Andy Reid said last night that he was "counting on" Brian Westbrook to be ready when the Eagles play the New York Giants in an NFC East showdown Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field.Based on medical guidelines for dealing with a concussion, however, that scenario seemed unlikely."Right now, I'm counting on he'll be there, and I know he'll want to be there, so there is a fine line there because this guy is so competitive that he wants to be out there every minute," Reid said during his radio show on WIP-AM (610)."We just have to make sure the tests come back and he's OK to play," the coach said.Pennsylvania Hospital's Art Bartolozzi, the former team physician for the Eagles and Flyers, ..."

Lions' Stafford, Johnson healing, might play

Comment

October 28

Detroit Free Press

"Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford said he felt better today than he did Oct. 14, the last time he tested his injured knee in practice. But he wouldn't speculate whether he would be able to play Sunday against St. Louis. "I don't know," Stafford said. "We'll see. It's a long week. We've got to figure out how this thing is going to react." Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (right knee) did not practice. But he did some work on the side and said he was "definitely optimistic" he would be able to play against the Rams, though "not positive." "It feels a lot better since last week," said Johnson, who has missed one game. "It just something we have to take day by day and see how it goes, ..."

Stafford practices with Lions' first-team offense

Comment

October 28

Detroit News

"The Lions' quarterback of the present and future was back at practice Tuesday, feeling better than he has in nearly a month. Matthew Stafford took snaps with the first-team offense during the portion of practice open to media. He showed no ill effects from the injury. Afterward, he said he took approximately half of the snaps in practice and didn't feel restricted at all. "This is the most I've done on it other than that Wednesday (of last week) and it felt better than it did that Wednesday," Stafford said. "I don't know if I could say how much better or how close (I am) to 100 percent." Stafford, who suffered a partially dislocated right knee cap in Chicago on Oct. 4, also dismissed ..."

Delhomme: Down ... and out?

Comment

October 27

Charlotte Observer

"Admitting his team's confidence in its passing game is in dire need of a boost, Carolina Panthers coach John Fox said Monday he's considering replacing Jake Delhomme as the team's starting quarterback. Less than a month after expressing his support of Delhomme's status as the starter with a "capital Y" for yes, Fox is on the verge of changing that to a billboard-sized N-O. "The reality is we're not operating very well there, and I don't know if status quo is necessarily the answer or not," said Fox. "We definitely need to do whatever it takes to get better. If that entails a quarterback change, that's what it'll entail." It's an unprecedented position for Fox, who never before in seven ..."

If Collins isn't starting, it's news to him

Comment

October 27

Nashville City Paper

"If a change from Kerry Collins to Vince Young at quarterback is coming this week for the Tennessee Titans, then it's a message the incumbent starter has not received. Players were due back at Baptist Sports Park on Tuesday to begin preparation for Sunday's game with the Jacksonville Jaguars at LP Field. Reports and speculation have cited owner Bud Adams as pushing for a switch from Collins to Young as soon as this week as the 0-6 Titans return from a bye week. "I haven't gotten any indication from him of a change," Collins said last week when asked if there had been any inklings of a potential quarterback change from Coach Jeff Fisher. Practices were closed to the media last week, but with ..."

Edwards charged in Cleveland assault

Comment

October 27

New York Post

"Braylon Edwards' troubles have not simply disappeared since he was traded to the Jets. The receiver was charged with assault yesterday for his alleged involvement in a fight outside a Cleveland bar in the early morning hours on Oct. 5. Edwards, who was shipped to the Jets from the Browns just days after the incident, faces a misdemeanor after being accused of punching promoter -- and friend of LeBron James -- Edward Givens outside of a Cleveland club. James called Edwards' actions "childish." Edwards caught one pass for 14 yards in the Jets' 38-0 win over the Raiders on Sunday in Oakland. He faces up to a $1,000 fine and 180 days in jail if convicted, although a jail stay would be ..."

Texans WR Johnson day-to-day with lung contusion

Comment

October 27

Houston Chronicle

"The Texans say they expect receiver Andre Johnson to be ready to play against Buffalo on Sunday, but after revising their postgame evaluation from chest contusion to lung contusion Monday, the truth is no one knows. Coach Gary Kubiak doesn't know if Johnson, who has 38 catches for 634 yards and four touchdowns, will be able to practice this week when the Texans prepare for the game against the Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Johnson, 28, doesn't have to practice to be able to play. "He's going to be day-to-day as we go into this week," Kubiak said Monday. "They'll do some tests on him each day as we go through this week, but I think we're fortunate, and, hopefully, he'll be ready to go ..."

Redskins' Cooley breaks right tibia

Comment

October 27

Washington Times

"Washington Redskins tight end Chris Cooley has never missed a game in his six-year career. But that streak seems to be in severe danger after he broke his right tibia on the opening play of the second quarter. His leg appeared to buckle as he was running a route. He had to be taken to the locker room on a cart, and the team said later he broke his leg. "We're quite certain it's broke or fractured in some way," coach Jim Zorn said. "He'll be out awhile. I don't know if it's going to be a season-ending injury yet." As for other injuries, defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin left in the first quarter after hurting an elbow. Linebacker H.B. Blades and cornerback Byron Westbrook also suffered ..."

Walter Jones' status is "still iffy" according to Seahawks coach Jim Mora

Comment

October 27

Seattle Times

"Walter Jones has not played since Seattle's Thanksgiving loss in Dallas last November. There has been no indication his next game will be in Dallas this November when the Seahawks play at the Cowboys on Sunday. "Still iffy," coach Jim Mora said of Jones. That goes for practicing Wednesday, but it's also an accurate description of Jones' status for the rest of the season. Jones has not practiced the previous four weeks in hopes that rest will ease the pain he's feeling in his surgically repaired left knee. His status was going to be re-evaluated after the team's bye. Well, that bye was Sunday, so where do things stand? "We'll see where he is Wednesday," Mora said. Seattle practiced Monday ..."

Fox reconsiders fierce loyalty to Delhomme

Comment

October 27

Charlotte Observer

"If you needed any more evidence that the interlinked worlds of John Fox and Jake Delhomme have crumbled this NFL season, you needed to look no further than these words from the Panthers' head coach Monday. Regarding his current indecisiveness over who would start at quarterback Sunday at Arizona, Fox said in part: "I don't know if status quo is necessarily the answer." That might sound like a small statement. But for Fox, it represents a big shift. Fox reveres the status quo. He loves when things stay the same. He has a plan. He decided back in 2003 that his plan included Jake Delhomme as his quarterback, and on that point he has rarely wavered. I thought Delhomme should have been benched ..."

Cowboys' Ware gets $78 million contract

Comment

October 27

Fort Worth Star-Telegram

"The Dallas Cowboys signed DeMarcus Ware to a six-year, $78 million contract extension, through 2015, with $40 million guaranteed. Ware received a $20 million signing bonus. He will earn $34 million in the first year of the new contract, $40 million in the first two years of the contract and $45 million in the first three years of the new contract. The overall deal averages $13 million per year. The deal was announced at a news conference at Valley Ranch Tuesday. Ware, his wife Taniqua, and agent Pat Dye joined Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and vice-president Stephen Jones at the news conference. "This is a Cowboy, for all practical purposes, for the rest of his days," Jerry Jones said. Ware ..."

Braylon Edwards faces jail after being accused of punching friend of LeBron James

Comment

October 27

New York Daily News

"That risk the Jets called "manageable" when they signed Braylon Edwards became more tangible Monday. The lightning rod wide receiver was charged with misdemeanor assault in Cleveland Municipal Court in connection with an incident outside a downtown nightclub days before the Jets acquired him in a trade with the Browns. The Jets issued a statement that seemed not to indicate much concern. "The team was aware of these allegations prior to acquiring Braylon from Cleveland. He has been cooperative with authorities and we will allow the legal process to run its course," the statement read. Edwards faces a sentence of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine, if convicted, with a hearing ..."

Mangini to stick with Anderson

Comment

October 27

Akron Beacon Journal

"The ''Brady'' chants started in the second quarter, just after Browns rookie receiver Brian Robiskie turned inside and quarterback Derek Anderson threw outside, much to the delight of Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson, who intercepted the pass. But Browns coach Eric Mangini refused to yank Anderson in the 31-3 loss Sunday to the Packers, and the disappointed crowd in Cleveland Browns Stadium gave up the Brady Quinn quest and went home early. As dismal as Anderson's numbers were for the third consecutive week, Mangini said Monday that he was sticking with Anderson for the game Sunday against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. ''I think he gives us the best chance right now to ..."

Boss Says Hard Hit Did Not Give Him a Concussion

Comment

October 27

New York Times

"Giants tight end Kevin Boss said Monday that he did not sustain a concussion when he was hit on the head during the team's 24-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday night. But Boss, who was hit helmet to helmet by safety Antrel Rolle after a 25-yard reception with 4 minutes 45 seconds to play, said, "It feels like I've gotten in a car wreck." "Anytime you get hit that hard, definitely the lights turn off for a second," Boss said. "But I came to pretty quick." No penalty was called on the play. Eli Manning escaped unscathed physically, but he threw three interceptions and took two delay-of-game penalties as the Giants (5-2) lost their second consecutive game."

Titans' Cortland Finnegan and Vincent Fuller use bye week to recover

Comment

October 27

Tennessean

"If the Titans are fortunate, their defense will welcome two key players back to practice this week. Starting cornerback Cortland Finnegan (hamstring) and nickelback Vincent Fuller (broken forearm) stayed in town over the bye week to receive treatment for their injuries, but Coach Jeff Fisher would only say both players are progressing. Finnegan and Fuller last played Sept. 27 against the Jets. "They would bring the experience back, the anticipation, the experience and the communication things," Fisher said. "I think the safeties would be a little more settled, if you will, to have guys they've been playing alongside with for several years back on the field." Not expected back in time for ..."

Dallas Cowboys, DeMarcus Ware agree on contract extension

Comment

October 26

Dallas Morning News

"It might have taken some time, but DeMarcus Ware and the Dallas Cowboys have come to terms on a contract extension. The length and figures are not known but the Cowboys have a press conference scheduled for 4:30 today at Valley Ranch. At 27, Ware is entering the prime of his career and has recorded four sacks in his last two games. A first-round pick in 2005, he has 57.5 sacks in his career and has been named to the Pro Bowl in each of the last three seasons. Ware led the NFL with 20 sacks in 2008, becoming just the sixth player since sacks became an official stat in 1982 to reach that mark in a season. He also shares the NFL record with Simon Fletcher for consecutive games with a sack ..."

Gibbs has no plans to return to Redskins

Comment

October 26

Washington Times

"Hall of Fame Washington Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said Sunday he has no plans to return to the struggling team. Gibbs laughed when asked at Martinsville Speedway about rumors and Internet reports that he could return to the team as an adviser or even general manager. "That's what it is. Talk," the owner of three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams said. "Right here's where I'm GMing." Gibbs disagreed with the idea that the Redskins coaching job is one of the toughest in the NFL under owner Dan Snyder. "When I was there last go-round, we had somebody that was a passionate owner, cared about things and supported me in every way," he said. "I think any NFL team, it's tough when you're not winning, ..."

Winfield hoping to be OK for Packers

Comment

October 26

Minneapolis Star Tribune

"Antoine Winfield left the locker room with a walking boot on his right foot Sunday, but the Vikings cornerback denied reports that he has a fractured foot and will be sidelined four to six weeks. Winfield did not play in the Vikings' 27-17 loss to the Steelers, and it is unclear when he will return. ESPN reported that Winfield could be sidelined a month, but Winfield said three times that he only suffered a sprain and considers himself "day-to-day." "It feels a lot better," Winfield said. "I was on crutches [until Friday]. Now I'm in the boot. I'm walking on it and not feeling any pain so my goal is to get back out here and play against the Packers." With the bye coming after Sunday's game ..."

Gruden and Zorn? Oh the irony

Comment

October 26

Washington Examiner

columnist Rick Snider

"It's bad enough that Washington Redskins coach Jim Zorn's emasculation goes national on Monday Night Football. Now Zorn's potential successor, Jon Gruden, essentially debriefed him during pregame preparations. The irony around the Redskins is thicker than a fat chain-smoker becoming U.S. Surgeon General. First Zorn loses offensive playcalling to a consultant straight from the bingo halls of Michigan. Now he has a TV announcer who might soon be sitting at Zorn's desk asking questions. You wonder if Gruden asked Zorn how big the office is, whether there's a trick to the hot water in the shower and where the secret exits are located. Could Zorn recommend a good local barber? How do you get ..."

Fox weighing QB change, unsure about "status quo" with Delhomme

Comment

October 26

Charlotte Observer

"Panthers coach John Fox said today he still believes Jake Delhomme is the team's best quarterback, but that doesn't mean Delhomme will start Sunday against Arizona. "The reality is we're not operating very well there, and I don't know if status quo is necessarily the answer or not," he said. One day after a painfully disappointing 20-9 loss to Buffalo, in which two of Delhomme's three interceptions led to touchdowns by the Bills, Fox left wide open the door that he could make a switch to Matt Moore or A.J. Feeley. "We definitely need to do whatever it takes to get better," said Fox. "If that entails a quarterback change, that's what it'll entail." Fox acknowledged that the ..."

Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield out with fractured foot, may return Nov. 22

Comment

October 26

St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Vikings Pro Bowl cornerback Antoine Winfield has a fractured right foot and the team is hopeful he can return to action within a month. Coach Brad Childress previously termed the injury a sprain. Asked if Winfield has a fracture, Childress said Sunday, "I'm not going there." He also declined to provide a timetable. "I can't tell you much. He's just on the mend," Childress said. "Really, it's a week-to-week deal. He made a lot of progress last week, and we'll see how he progresses this week. I thought those guys who played in his stead did a nice job." Childress also wouldn't rule Winfield out for next Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers. "I learned a while ago not to rule him out, ..."

Vikings receiver Bernard Berrian out all second half Sunday with leg injury

Comment

October 26

St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Vikings receiver Bernard Berrian missed the entire second half of Sunday's 27-17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers with an apparent left hamstring injury. Berrian declined comment when asked about his injury. But he had a wrap around his left thigh as he dressed in the Vikings' locker room. Berrian suffered a hamstring injury in the preseason opener Aug. 14 against the Indianapolis Colts, and he didn't return until the season opener Sept. 13 against the Cleveland Browns. For the season, he is second on the team with 24 catches third with 252 receiving yards, including two touchdowns. The Vikings hope he can play next Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. Berrian had his best game of the ..."

Leon Washington out for year with serious leg injury

Comment

October 26

New York Daily News

"The Jets' season was rocked with another bad injury Sunday at the Oakland Coliseum. Jets RB Leon Washington is out for the season after breaking his right leg today against the Raiders. Washington suffered a fractured fibula that required emergency surgery. According to players, the bone broke through the skin. One player said, "I could see blood spurting out. I've never seen anything like that before." It could be a career-threatening injury. An unidentified player landed on Washington's leg as he went down awkwardly, one of those cover-your-eyes plays. Teammates immediately motioned to the sideline for medical help. Washington was carted off the field. If he's sideline for a lengthy ..."

Harris saga takes mysterious turn

Comment

October 26

Chicago Sun-Times

"The curious case of Tommie Harris became more perplexing Sunday, when the Bears defensive tackle said his left knee wasn't the reason he was held out of the 45-10 loss to the Bengals. Harris did not practice last week and was listed on the injury report with a knee injury, but he worked out on the Paul Brown Stadium turf about two hours before kickoff. 'It wasn't true,'' Harris said when asked why his knee kept him out of the game. ''You talk to them. If you came here earlier, you saw, I worked out before the game.'' Harris was spotted on the field working out in shorts and a T-shirt, but it didn't appear to be anything overly rigorous. He was suspended for one game last season for conduct ..."

Eagles' Curtis undergoes surgery

Comment

October 25

Philadelphia Inquirer

"Having all those extra receivers doesn't seem so wasteful now. Eagles wide receiver Kevin Curtis had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee yesterday and is out for the foreseeable future, coach Andy Reid said. Curtis sat out the last three games with his ailing knee, but magnetic resonance images conducted by the team over the last month did not reveal any structural damage. However, he received a second look last week in Logan, Utah, and doctors decided to perform the minor procedure in which small incisions are made. "There wasn't too much in there that they had to work on," Reid said. "They just snipped a few little things in there, but it wasn't a major thing." Reid said that he had no ..."

Stover dressed for success, at last

Comment

October 25

Indianapolis Star

"It didn't take long for Matt Stover to convince the Indianapolis Colts he was a suitable temporary replacement for Adam Vinatieri, their ailing place-kicker. Actually dressing for the part was a bit more problematic. In a business teeming with large bodies, Stover is an exception. He's 5-11 and 178 pounds, and fitting him with uniform pants required some scrambling. "My butt's so small,'' Stover said with a smile. "They had (waist size) 34s, but I needed 32s, a pair of 32 regulars.'' With none available, the Colts had to order a pair. The team also provided Stover a special helmet. He jokingly described it as a "Toys R Us'' model. "A lot lighter,'' said Stover, who made further adjustments ..."

Chiefs release rookie WR Lawrence, promote Long off practice squad

Comment

October 25

Kansas City Star

"The Chiefs made a late roster move before today's game against San Diego, promoting wide receiver Lance Long and releasing rookie Quinten Lawrence. Long, also a rookie, likely will be used primarily on special teams and could try returning kickoffs. He had been on the practice squad since joining the team last month. Lawrence, who was the Chiefs' sixth-round pick this year, was drafted with the notion of returning kicks in mind. He struggled during training camp and was shuffled out of consideration. If Lawrence clears waivers, he'd be eligible to join the Chiefs' practice squad."

NFL Trade Rumors