Archive: October 2006
Merriman Drops Appeal of Suspension
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman dropped his appeal of his four-game suspension imposed by the league for a positive test under the NFL's steroid-testing program. Merriman, who's tied for the NFL lead with 8-1/2 sacks, is to begin serving his suspension immediately and is to miss the Chargers'...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 5:15 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Week 9 Rankings
The two unbeatens stay at the top, and the Patriots use their impressive win Monday night to replace the Broncos at third. The Giants, Falcons and Chargers move up in the top 10 and the Ravens break back into it. The Chiefs, Cowboys and Jaguars make big jumps, all...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 2:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (7)
Titans' Troubles
Tennessee Titans linebacker Robert Reynolds was fined $350 plus court costs and placed on probation Monday after pleading guilty to criminal damaging and having a domestic violence charge amended to disorderly conduct. The charges stemmed from an incident in Ohio involving his estranged wife. Titans Coach Jeff Fisher sent...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 1:08 PM ET | CommentsComments (5)
Bucs Could Place C. Simms on IR List Soon
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could place quarterback Chris Simms on the injured reserve list this week or next week, a move that would end his season. Simms and the Buccaneers did not rule out the possibility of him playing again this season after he underwent emergency surgery for a...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 12:51 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
R. Bush Saying He'll Play This Week
Tailback Reggie Bush is vowing to play for the New Orleans Saints this week. He aggravated an ankle injury during Sunday's loss to the Baltimore Ravens....
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 12:44 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Brooks Healthy but Walter is Raiders' Starter at QB
Aaron Brooks has been cleared to return but Andrew Walter remains the Oakland Raiders' starting quarterback. Brooks has missed the last five games because of a strained pectoral muscle, and Walter has led the Raiders to their only two victories of the season. Coach Art Shell said during his...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 10:02 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Leftwich or Garrard This Week? Del Rio Not Saying Yet
Jacksonville Jaguars Coach Jack Del Rio declined to name a starting quarterback for his team this week during his news conference Monday. With usual starter Byron Leftwich sidelined by an ankle injury, backup David Garrard engineered Sunday's triumph at Philadelphia. Del Rio indicated Monday that he'd sat down Leftwich...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 9:56 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
C. Martin Reportedly Headed To Retirement
The New York Jets have delayed a decision until next week about whether to allow tailback Curtis Martin to begin practicing. If Martin, who has an ailing knee and currently is on the physically unable to perform list, does not practice next week, the Jets must place him on...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 9:49 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cardinals Say They Won't Make Coaching Change During the Season
The Arizona Cardinals are on a seven-game losing streak and on their bye week, a combination that perhaps could have led to the firing of Coach Dennis Green. But team vice president Michael Bidwill said in a written statement released by the club Monday that Green won't be fired...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 9:38 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Merriman, Representatives Consider Dropping Appeal
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman and his representatives are considering dropping his appeal of his pending four-game suspension imposed by the league for a positive test under the NFL's steroid-testing program. Merriman's appeal is scheduled to be heard on Nov. 7, and he's eligible to continue playing in...
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 9:18 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Alexander Doesn't Get Clearance to Return to Seahawks' Lineup
The Seattle Seahawks had expected to have tailback Shaun Alexander back this week, but it apparently won't happen. Doctors did not clear the reigning league most valuable player to return to the lineup because tests Monday showed that the cracked bone in his left foot has not healed completely....
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 8:42 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Lions Release Hakim
The Detroit Lions released wide receiver Az-Zahir Hakim. He had 17 catches in six games for the Lions this season....
By Mark Maske | October 31, 2006; 8:35 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Linebacker-Needy Giants Sign Claiborne
The New York Giants signed linebacker Chris Claiborne today. Claiborne played for the St. Louis Rams last season after previous stints with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. Brandon Short injured his quadriceps muscle during Sunday's triumph over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, six days after fellow Giants linebacker LaVar...
By Mark Maske | October 30, 2006; 9:34 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Maybe Romo Was Built in a Day
CHARLOTTE--The Dallas Cowboys got the whole gamut of emotions in one week. When they lost to the New York Giants last Monday night at Texas Stadium, it felt like their season was crumbling. Coach Bill Parcells benched veteran quarterback Drew Bledsoe at halftime of that game and went to...
By Mark Maske | October 30, 2006; 10:34 AM ET | CommentsComments (8)
Puzzling Panthers
CHARLOTTE--If you can figure out the Carolina Panthers, you're doing better than their coach, John Fox. The Panthers were regarded as a top Super Bowl contender in the NFC when the season began. They opened with two straight losses without injured wide receiver Steve Smith, then seemed to steady...
By Mark Maske | October 30, 2006; 10:32 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
J. Porter Makes Season Debut for Raiders
The Oakland Raiders had wide receiver Jerry Porter on their active roster for a game for the first time this season. Porter played against the Pittsburgh Steelers today after having a four-game suspension, imposed by Coach Art Shell for insubordination, cut in half last week via a settlement between...
By Mark Maske | October 29, 2006; 7:42 PM ET | CommentsComments (4)
Huard Sits Out Chiefs' Practice for Second Straight Day
Quarterback Damon Huard missed the Kansas City Chiefs' practice for a second day in a row today because of a sore hamstring muscle. Coach Herman Edwards indicated that Huard's playing status would be a game-time decision Sunday. Rookie Brodie Croyle would start if Huard can't play....
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 3:12 PM ET | CommentsComments (5)
Garrard Is Likely Jaguars Starter as Leftwich Misses Practice Again
It appears likely that backup David Garrard will start at quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday at Philadelphia. Usual starter Byron Leftwich is bothered by a sore ankle and missed practice today for a second straight day. Coach Jack Del Rio refused to name a starter. Leftwich played...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 3:11 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bengals Activate WR Henry
The Cincinnati Bengals reinstated wide receiver Chris Henry to their active roster today. Henry resumed practicing this week after serving a two-game suspension by the NFL for violating the substance abuse and personal conduct policies. The Bengals had a roster exemption for Henry until Monday, and Coach Marvin Lewis...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 1:59 PM ET | CommentsComments (3)
Cowboys Assistant Haley Reportedly Suing McDonald's
Dallas Cowboys assistant coach Todd Haley reportedly is suing a McDonald's franchise in a Dallas suburb, saying in a lawsuit that his wife and the family's au pair found a dead rat in a salad they bought at the restaurant. The Dallas Morning News reported that the lawsuit seeks...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 1:46 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
All Local TV Blackouts Lifted for Eighth Time in Eight Weeks This Season
The NFL continues to hit new heights of popularity. Prior to this season, there had been 13 weekends since the NFL instituted its current policy regarding local television blackouts in 1973 that all the games on a weekend had been sold out in time to be televised in the...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 1:34 PM ET | CommentsComments (3)
Chiefs Reportedly Could Be Without Huard This Weekend
The Kansas City Chiefs might be down to their third quarterback this weekend. Fill-in starter Damon Huard suffered an undisclosed injury during Thursday's practice and rookie Brodie Croyle finished the practice working with the starting offense, the Kansas City Star reported today. Croyle apparently would start against the Seattle...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 1:06 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
J. Jones Expresses Disappointment Over Cowboys' Need to Switch Quarterbacks
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told reporters Thursday that he was disappointed about the team's need to make a quarterback switch from Drew Bledsoe to Tony Romo because it signals that things were not going the way the club had hoped this season. Jones said he does not believe...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 7:07 AM ET | CommentsComments (8)
Colts Still Hoping to Have B. Sanders Back
Safety Bob Sanders sat out Thursday's practice but the Indianapolis Colts remain hopeful he can return to their lineup this weekend. He has missed the last four games after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery. The Colts lost safety Mike Doss to a season-ending torn knee ligament suffered during last Sunday's...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 6:57 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Giants Place Arrington on IR
The Giants made the ending of linebacker LaVar Arrington's season official, placing him on the injured reserve list Thursday. He suffered a torn left Achilles' tendon during Monday night's triumph at Dallas....
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2006; 6:55 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Local TV Ratings Soaring for Redskins, Ravens
The Washington Redskins' struggles this season aren't hurting the local television ratings for their games. Redskins games this season have an average rating of 26.5 in the Washington market, according to the NFL. That's up 14 percent from a similar point last season, tied for the sixth-largest increase league-wide....
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 8:54 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Garrard Works With Starting Offense as Leftwich Sits Out Jaguars' Practice
It's beginning to look like David Garrard might be the Jacksonville Jaguars' quarterback on Sunday at Philadelphia. Jacksonville's usual starter, Byron Leftwich, sat out today's practice because of a sore ankle, and backup Garrard worked with the first-string offense. Garrard and Leftwich had split the practice-field work Wednesday. Leftwich...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 8:53 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Roethlisberger Practices Fully, Appears Set to Play
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger participated in a full practice with the Pittsburgh Steelers today, apparently signaling that he's ready to play Sunday in Oakland. Roethlisberger suffered a concussion during last Sunday's overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Coach Bill Cowher told reporters that a final determination about Roethlisberger's status would...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 3:44 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
T. Barber Fires Back
New York Giants tailback Tiki Barber went on the offensive this week against media members who criticized him for saying last week that he planned to retire after the season. On the satellite radio show he hosts Tuesday nights on Sirius with his twin brother, Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 11:47 AM ET | CommentsComments (17)
Status of Browns Right Tackle Uncertain Because of Illness
Starting right tackle Ryan Tucker was absent from the Cleveland Browns on Monday and Wednesday. The team has indicated only that Tucker is ill, refusing to provide specifics. He played in last Sunday's loss to the Denver Broncos but didn't finish the game....
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 11:36 AM ET | CommentsComments (5)
C. Henry Practicing with Bengals But Status for Game Unclear
Wide receiver Chris Henry is back practicing with the Cincinnati Bengals this week after serving a two-game suspension by the league for violating the substance abuse and personal conduct policies. But Coach Marvin Lewis is saying it's not certain that the team will reinstate Henry to the active roster...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 11:30 AM ET | CommentsComments (3)
Week 8 Picks
Local Team Ravens at Saints The Ravens were reeling before their bye week, and the Saints are tough at home. Pick: Saints Lock of the Week 49ers at Bears The 49ers would have a better chance with Mike Singletary playing linebacker instead of coaching. Pick: Bears Upset of the...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 11:19 AM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Colts Not Placing Reagor on IR List Immediately
The Indianapolis Colts have decided, at least for now, against placing defensive tackle Montae Reagor on the injured reserve list, which would make him ineligible to play for the team again this season. The Colts are keeping Reagor on the active roster as he recovers from the injuries he...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 10:10 AM ET | CommentsComments (4)
D. Green Says Changes Made to Cardinals' Offensive Line
Arizona Cardinals Coach Dennis Green told reporters Wednesday that he'd decided to make changes along the club's offensive line but he refused to say what those changes would be. Now if he only could manage to have his team play its games but keep the results secret, he'd be...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 10:03 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Chiefs Bolster Offensive Line by Signing C. Terry, Getting Back Welbourn
The Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday signed offensive tackle Chris Terry, a former starter for the Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks. Tackle John Welbourn also returned to the Chiefs and participated in Wednesday's practice. He retired in the offseason, but decided to return to the team after serving a...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 9:56 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Seahawks Bench Boulware at Safety, Continue to Tinker at Left Guard
The Seattle Seahawks have benched safety Michael Boulware, and are planning to start Jordan Babineaux in his place. They also plan to get rookie Rob Sims some playing time at left guard. It's unclear whether Sims will start ahead of former first-round draft pick Chris Spencer, who took over...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 9:15 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Alexander Testing Foot and Targeting Nov. 6 for Return
Tailback Shaun Alexander has begun running as part of his rehabilitation program, seemingly putting him on target to return to the Seattle Seahawks' lineup on Nov. 6. The reigning league most valuable player has missed the last three games because of a broken bone in his foot, and is...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 9:05 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Roethlisberger Says Falcons Player Taunted Him About Head Injury
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger told reporters Wednesday that an Atlanta Falcons player taunted him after Roethlisberger suffered the head injury that knocked him from the two teams' game last Sunday. Roethlisberger refused to identify the player. "They made a little comment, but I won't bring it up right...
By Mark Maske | October 26, 2006; 8:55 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Fisher Tells Linebacker to Leave Titans' Practice Facility
Tennessee Titans Coach Jeff Fisher told linebacker Robert Reynolds to leave the team's practice facility today and announced that Reynolds will not be permitted to play in Sunday's game against the Houston Texans. Reynolds is facing charges in Ohio, including one for assault, in a domestic-violence case for an...
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 3:39 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Roethlisberger Practices
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger participated in the Pittsburgh Steelers' practice today. He suffered a concussion during last Sunday's overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons, and Coach Bill Cowher is withholding a decision about Roethlisberger's playing status for this weekend until later in the week. But it had been thought that...
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 3:32 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Garrard Splits Jags' Practice-Field Work With Leftwich
Backup David Garrard split the snaps with starter Byron Leftwich during the Jacksonville Jaguars' practice today. Leftwich is bothered by a sore ankle and played poorly in last weekend's lopsided loss to the Houston Texans....
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 3:26 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Leinart Excused from Cardinals' Practice
Rookie quarterback Matt Leinart was excused from the Arizona Cardinals' practice today to be on hand for the birth of his son in California....
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 3:25 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bucs Place CB Kelly on IR
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced that they'd placed cornerback Brian Kelly on the injured reserve list, ending his season, because of an ailing toe....
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 3:25 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Raiders Reinstate J. Porter
The Oakland Raiders reinstated wide receiver Jerry Porter today as part of a settlement between the league and the NFL Players Association. Porter had served two games of a four-game suspension without pay imposed by the Raiders for conduct detrimental to the team. Coach Art Shell had suspended Porter...
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 2:16 PM ET | CommentsComments (5)
Parcells Picks Romo as Cowboys' Starter
Coach Bill Parcells today named Tony Romo the Dallas Cowboys' starting quarterback for Sunday night's game at Carolina. It will be Romo's first NFL start. Parcells benched veteran Drew Bledsoe at halftime of Monday night's loss to the New York Giants at Texas Stadium, which dropped the Cowboys' record...
By Mark Maske | October 25, 2006; 12:57 PM ET | CommentsComments (6)
Stadium in L.A. Could Cost $1 Billion
NEW ORLEANS--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said today that the league's estimates of the cost for building a stadium for a team in the Los Angeles area range from $820 million to $1 billion. Those estimates are based on having a team playing in Los Angeles in the 2010 season,...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 10:03 PM ET | CommentsComments (9)
Owners Meet in New Orleans But Don't Evaluate City's Recovery or Saints' Future
NEW ORLEANS--The league's team owners had little or no time to take stock of New Orleans's recovery from Hurricane Katrina during their visit here for their one-day meeting. The Saints' long-term future in New Orleans remains uncertain even as they have a surprisingly successful season after selling out all...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 9:56 PM ET | CommentsComments (8)
Goodell Runs First League Meeting as Commissioner
NEW ORLEANS--Roger Goodell oversaw his first owners' meeting as NFL commissioner here today. But after years of serving as predecessor Paul Tagliabue's top lieutenant in the league office, Goodell said this felt like no big deal. "I didn't really think much about it today," said Goodell, who officially succeeded...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 9:51 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Merriman's Appeal Scheduled to be Heard on Nov. 7
NEW ORLEANS--Shawne Merriman's appeal of his pending four-game suspension for testing positive under the league's steroid-testing program is scheduled to be heard on Nov. 7. The San Diego Chargers linebacker remains eligible to play in the meantime. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell declined to comment on the specifics of the...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 9:47 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Owners Approve Resolution to Play As Many As Two Regular Season Games Outside the U.S. Annually
NEW ORLEANS--The NFL's team owners today approved a resolution to play as many as two regular season games outside the U.S. per year. League officials said they will begin accepting bids from potential host venues in Mexico, Canada, Germany and England with the goal of selecting a site for...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 9:18 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Jones Seems to be Leaning Toward Bledsoe
NEW ORLEANS--Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones attended today's NFL owners' meeting here, arriving on the morning after his team suffered a deflating loss at home to the New York Giants and benched quarterback Drew Bledsoe in the process. Cowboys Coach Bill Parcells went to youngster Tony Romo for the...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 4:08 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cardinals Brass Unhappy About Results
Michael Bidwill, the vice president of the Arizona Cardinals, called Coach Dennis Green and VP of football operations Rod Graves on the carpet after Sunday's loss to the previously winless Oakland Raiders. Bidwill demanded answers for the Cardinals' 1-6 start after spending big money in the offseason to land...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 2:56 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bears-Giants Game on Nov. 12 Moved to Nighttime Slot Under Flexible-Scheduling Plan
The Nov. 12 game between the Chicago Bears and New York Giants at Giants Stadium has been moved to 8:15 p.m. It had been scheduled to be played that afternoon. It is the first game to be rescheduled under the league's new flexible-scheduling plan, designed to ensure that NBC...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 2:29 PM ET | CommentsComments (3)
Week 8 Rankings
The gap between Nos. 1 and 2 narrows with the Colts' hard-nosed win over the Redskins, but the Bears keep the top spot. The Saints move into the top five. The Chargers drop from third to 10th while the Giants, Vikings, Bengals and Falcons rise. The Raiders' first victory...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 1:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Abraham to Undergo Abdominal Surgery and Be Sidelined 3-4 Weeks
Atlanta Falcons defensive end John Abraham will be sidelined for three to four weeks after undergoing abdominal surgery, the team announced today. Abraham has missed four of the Falcons' past five games after injuring his groin in the season opener....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 12:40 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Concussion Leaves Roethlisberger's Status Unclear This Week
The Pittsburgh Steelers don't know if quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will be available this week. He suffered a concussion on the heavy hit that knocked him from Sunday's overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Roethlisberger also sustained a concussion in the July motorcycle accident that led to him having seven...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 12:36 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Top Union Official Becomes Executive Director of Screen Actors Guild
The NFL Players Association has lost one of its top officials. Doug Allen is leaving to become the executive director of the Screen Actors Guild. Allen, a former Buffalo Bills linebacker, had been with the union since 1982. He has served as the president of Players Inc., the union's...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 11:58 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Browns Call Carthon's Departure a Resignation
The Cleveland Browns announced the departure of offensive coordinator Maurice Carthon today as a resignation by Carthon that the team had accepted. People around the league said that Carthon had been fired Monday, and that's how the transaction was depicted in several reports....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 11:41 AM ET | CommentsComments (7)
Owners Are Meeting Today
NEW ORLEANS--The NFL's team owners are conducting a one-day meeting here today. The owners are to discuss a wide variety of topics, including revenue-sharing and pending stadium projects, but no major developments are expected. It is the first owners' meeting since Roger Goodell succeeded Paul Tagliabue as commissioner....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 11:05 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Arrington Laments Ill-Timed End of His Season
IRVING, Tex.--Just when things started working for LaVar Arrington, the linebacker's first season with the New York Giants came to an abrupt end. Arrington had two big plays early in the Giants' 36-22 victory over the Dallas Cowboys here Monday night, then had his season ended when he suffered...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 11:03 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
T. Barber Not Running Like a Retiree
IRVING, Tex.--New York Giants tailback Tiki Barber ran for 114 yards in Monday night's win over the Dallas Cowboys in his first game since saying last week that he intends to retire following the season. "With Tiki, nothing ever changed," Giants Coach Tom Coughlin said, "no matter what was...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 11:02 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Parcells Goes to Romo, and Going Back to Bledsoe Now Could Be Awkward
IRVING, Tex.--Coach Bill Parcells wasn't saying following the Dallas Cowboys' loss to the New York Giants here Monday night whether Tony Romo or Drew Bledsoe will be his starting quarterback this week. But it would be awkward for Parcells to go back to Bledsoe now, after giving the veteran...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 10:58 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Shanahan Sticking with Plummer, At Least Temporarily
Denver Broncos Coach Mike Shanahan indicated Monday that he's sticking with Jake Plummer as the team's starting quarterback. Plummer and the Denver offense have struggled, leading to speculation that Shanahan could switch to rookie Jay Cutler. The club's defense has carried the Broncos to a 5-1 record....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 6:01 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Reagor to Miss Second Straight Game for Colts
Defensive tackle Montae Reagor is to miss a second straight game for the Indianapolis Colts. He was injured in an automobile accident Sunday afternoon, before the Colts' triumph over the Washington Redskins. Reagor reportedly remained hospitalized Monday. Previous reports had indicated he'd been released Sunday night....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 5:57 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Merriman Says He's Hopeful Appeal Will Overturn Pending Suspension
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman said at a news conference Monday that he's hopeful his appeal of his positive test under the NFL's steroid-testing program will overturn his pending four-game suspension. Merriman apologized to his teammates. "Hopefully nobody makes any kind of judgment or anything that basically makes...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 5:53 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Packers Place WR Ferguson on IR
The Green Bay Packers placed wide receiver Robert Ferguson on the injured reserve list, ending his season. He'd missed two games since suffering a foot injury....
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 5:44 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Browns Fire Offensive Coordinator Carthon
The Cleveland Browns fired offensive coordinator Maurice Carthon. He is the third offensive coordinator to be fired league-wide this season, following the Baltimore Ravens' Jim Fassel and the Arizona Cardinals' Keith Rowen. The move came one game after Coach Romeo Crennel had said following the team's bye week that...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2006; 5:41 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Broncos Mull Options With Left Tackle Lepsis Sidelined for Rest of Season
The Denver Broncos' offense suffered a significant loss today when an MRI exam showed that left tackle Matt Lepsis suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Sunday's win over the Cleveland Browns. Erik Pears replaced Lepsis on Sunday. But the Broncos now might move right...
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 8:15 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Colts Lose Doss for Season
The Indianapolis Colts lost safety Mike Doss for the remainder of the season because of a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee suffered during Sunday's triumph over the Washington Redskins. Doss had been starting in place of the injured Bob Sanders. The Colts are hopeful that Sanders...
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 8:04 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Hasselbeck Out for 2-4 Weeks
The official prognosis is in for Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and it's what was expected: He is to miss two to four weeks because of a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Hasselbeck has a grade 2 sprain, which is a partial tear of the ligament....
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 7:55 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Browns CB Baxter Done for Season After Injuring Both Knees
Cleveland Browns cornerback Gary Baxter suffered torn patellar tendons in both his knees during Sunday's loss to the Denver Broncos. Baxter is scheduled to undergo surgery Tuesday and will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Browns Coach Romeo Crennel said during a news conference today that Baxter...
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 2:09 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Reagor Released from Hospital
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Montae Reagor was released from a hospital late Sunday night. He was injured in an auto accident Sunday afternoon and missed the Colts' triumph over the Washington Redskins....
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 2:05 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Painful Day for Super Bowl QBs
The two quarterbacks who participated in last season's Super Bowl got hurt Sunday, but Seattle's Matt Hasselbeck probably will be sidelined longer than Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger. Hasselbeck is scheduled to undergo an MRI exam today on the knee injury he suffered during Sunday's loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The...
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2006; 1:56 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Don't Mess With Manning
INDIANAPOLIS--Don't tug on Superman's cape. And don't try to knock Peyton Manning out of a game. The Washington Redskins got some big first-half hits on Manning here this afternoon. One resulted in a penalty, and the Colts thought the other should have as well. An obviously shaken Manning had...
By Mark Maske | October 22, 2006; 11:47 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Merriman Reportedly Facing Suspension for Positive Steroids Test
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman reportedly is facing a four-game suspension by the NFL for a positive steroids test. ESPN reported tonight that Merriman has been informed of the positive test but the suspension has not been imposed because an appeal by Merriman still is pending. The positive...
By Mark Maske | October 22, 2006; 11:30 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Colts' Reagor Injured in Auto Accident
INDIANAPOLIS--The Indianapolis Colts played today's game against the Washington Redskins without starting defensive tackle Montae Reagor after he was injured in an automobile accident this afternoon. Reagor was hospitalized, reportedly with facial lacerations. Colts officials said he was conscious and alert. "He's alert and he's talked to his mom,"...
By Mark Maske | October 22, 2006; 11:25 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Pierce Fined for Hit on Vick
The league fined New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce $12,500 for a hit on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick last weekend. Pierce hit Vick near the sideline during the Giants' triumph last Sunday. He was assessed a 15-yard penalty....
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 6:11 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Wisconsin Man Charged in Internet Hoax
A grocery clerk from Wisconsin is scheduled to appear in court in Milwaukee today on charges filed by authorities stemming from the Internet hoax warning of terrorist attacks being planned on NFL stadiums this weekend. The man was identified by the Associated Press as Jake J. Brahm of Wauwatosa,...
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 2:08 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Thomas's Back Spasms Could Leave Eagles Relying on Rookie Justice at Left Tackle Against Bucs
Left tackle William Thomas participated in the Philadelphia Eagles' practice Thursday after being sidelined Wednesday by back spasms. If Thomas can't play Sunday at Tampa, he would be replaced in the lineup by rookie Winston Justice. The Eagles were ecstatic on draft day when Justice, a USC product they'd...
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 10:29 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Winless Raiders Get to Face Cardinals This Weekend, But Schedule Toughens After That
The Oakland Raiders are the lone remaining winless team in the NFL this season. They have a chance to get into the victory column Sunday when they host the Arizona Cardinals, who are 1-5 and coming off Monday night's come-from-ahead defeat to the Chicago Bears in which they squandered...
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 10:18 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Vick Should Worry About Throwing Ball Better, Not More Often
Michael Vick needs to purchase a mirror. And then look in it. The Atlanta Falcons quarterback said in an interview with HBO this week that the Falcons have "got to throw the ball sometimes." He said that Falcons Coach Jim Mora is going to "have to trust in me...
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 10:06 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
D. Branch Becoming Productive for Seahawks
Last month's trade for wide receiver Deion Branch is beginning to pay off for the Seattle Seahawks. Branch, obtained from the New England Patriots for a first-round draft pick, had six catches for 76 yards and two touchdowns in last Sunday's triumph at St. Louis. It was his best...
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2006; 9:39 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Colts Likely to Use McFarland Against Redskins
The Indianapolis Colts apparently won't waste any time getting newly acquired defensive tackle Anthony McFarland into the playing rotation. The Colts traded a second-round draft choice next spring to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday for McFarland and probably will use him in Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 9:11 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Will Culpepper Ever Make It All the Way Back? J. Johnson Doesn't Think So
Former Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson told a Miami radio station that he doesn't think Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper ever will regain his Pro Bowl form. "I don't see him ever playing at the level he played at a couple years ago, when he was up...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 9:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
C. Martin's Football Future Remains Unclear
Tailback Curtis Martin is eligible to come off the physically unable to perform list, but he and the New York Jets remain uncertain if he will play this season. Martin hasn't played or practiced all season because of an ailing right knee. According to the Jets, Martin will remain...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 8:52 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Threat of Attacks on Stadiums Called "A Hoax" by Authorities
The Internet threat that terrorist attacks were planned on seven NFL stadiums this weekend was determined by investigators to be "a hoax," the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security announced today. "The investigation has determined that this is a hoax," the two agencies said in a joint written...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 4:17 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
R. Howard Leaves Panthers for Personal Reasons
Seldom used cornerback Reggie Howard has left the Carolina Panthers for what the team described today as personal reasons. Panthers officials said they've received a roster exemption to replace Howard, a former starter stuck this season behind starters Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas and top reserve Richard Marshall....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 2:37 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bears Place Safety M. Brown on IR List
The Chicago Bears placed safety Mike Brown on the injured reserve list today, ending his season. Brown underwent surgery Wednesday to have a torn ligament in his foot repaired. He suffered the injury during Monday night's comeback triumph at Arizona. The veteran is one of the Bears' top players...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 2:25 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Week 7 Picks
Local Team Redskins at Colts It's actually tempting to pick the Redskins. They can hand the ball to Clinton Portis early and often, and the Colts haven't been able to stop the run (although this week's trade for Anthony McFarland could help). Just when you think an NFL team...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 2:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
FBI Reportedly Interviewing Person Possibly Responsible for Internet Threat
FBI representatives today were interviewing a Milwaukee resident possibly responsible for last week's Internet posting warning of terrorist attacks this weekend on seven NFL stadiums, the Associated Press reported. The threat reportedly was deemed not credible by the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 10:39 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Knee Surgery Shelves Saints TE Conwell for At Least Two Weeks
The New Orleans Saints expect to be without tight end Ernie Conwell for at least two weeks. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Wednesday....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 10:34 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Chargers Lose DE Olshansky for 3-4 Weeks
San Diego Chargers defensive end Igor Olshansky underwent knee surgery Wednesday. He is to be sidelined three to four weeks....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 10:26 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Falcons Getting Back LB Hartwell
Ed Hartwell is scheduled to return to the Atlanta Falcons' lineup this weekend at middle linebacker. Hartwell is to make his season debut as he returns from knee surgery....
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 10:23 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Grudge Match, At Least for Front Offices
The two teams involved in the most acrimonious dealings of the offseason square off this weekend in Seattle. The Seahawks are scheduled to host the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. The two clubs were involved in a bitter offseason tussle over free agent contracts. The Vikings signed Pro Bowl guard...
By Mark Maske | October 19, 2006; 10:11 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Threat of Terrorist Attacks on NFL Stadiums Deemed Not Credible by Federal Authorities
Federal agencies are expressing skepticism about the credibility of an Internet threat of terrorist attacks on NFL stadiums that was revealed today. The warning was posted on Oct. 12 on a Website that links to multiple online conversations and cartoons. A poster said that seven NFL stadiums would be...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:30 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Favre Says League Turning Its Back on K. Robinson
A day after teammate Koren Robinson was suspended for a year by the NFL for a violation of its substance abuse policy, Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre criticized the league's practice of keeping suspended players from having contact with their teams. Favre said the league is turning its...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:32 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
T. Barber Doesn't Back Down From Retirement Comments
In a conference call today with media members, New York Giants tailback Tiki Barber reiterated his comments--first made Tuesday to the New York Times--that he's leaning toward retiring after this season. The NFL's 31-year-old rushing leader said it was "too early in the year to say it for sure,"...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:23 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Singletary Readies to Face Bears as 49ers Assistant
The Chicago Bears' glorious present will butt heads with their glorious past a week from Sunday. The San Francisco 49ers visit Soldier Field after both teams have a bye this weekend. Mike Singletary, the Hall of Fame middle linebacker who anchored the Bears' defense in their Super Bowl-winning season...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:15 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bears Safety M. Brown Undergoes Foot Surgery
The Chicago Bears' Super Bowl hopes took a hit today when veteran safety Mike Brown underwent surgery for ligament damage in his foot. Brown suffered the injury during Monday night's comeback triumph in Arizona. It's unclear how long Brown will be sidelined or if he'll be placed in the...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:13 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
T. Barber Reportedly Contemplating Retirement After This Season
When he arrived in training camp this past summer, New York Giants tailback Tiki Barber talked at length about the possibility of retiring within the next few years to pursue his off-field interests in broadcasting and business. Barber, the NFL's rushing leader, told the New York Times on Tuesday...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:40 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Saints Are Legit
It's time to take the New Orleans Saints seriously as a top contender in the NFC. They cemented that status with last Sunday's triumph over the Philadelphia Eagles, improving their record to 5-1. The Saints, in the season in which they've returned to New Orleans, no longer are just...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:33 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Offensive Coordinators Taking the Fall
Offensive coordinators are the scapegoats for struggling teams this season. Baltimore Ravens Coach Brian Billick fired his friend, Jim Fassel, on Tuesday after the Ravens' second straight loss Sunday. Arizona Cardinals Coach Dennis Green ousted Keith Rowen on the heels of the club's Monday night meltdown against the Chicago...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:25 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Overprotecting the Quarterback
The league instructs its game officials to protect quarterbacks. If a hit on a quarterback is borderline, officials are told, call a penalty. But the roughing-the-quarterback call that decided last Sunday's Cincinnati-Tampa Bay game took it too far. The Buccaneers' winning touchdown in their 14-13 triumph came after rookie...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:19 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Raiders Stand Alone
It's hard to go winless in the NFL. Three of the league's previously winless teams won Sunday, with the Tennessee Titans, Detroit Lions and Tampa Bay Buccaneers getting into the victory column. That leaves only the Oakland Raiders still looking for a triumph this season....
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:08 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Struggling Bengals Now Must Rely on Rookie Left Tackle
The Cincinnati Bengals are struggling, with two straight losses after a 3-0 beginning. And now they'll have to play without left tackle Levi Jones because of an ailing knee. Rookie Andrew Whitworth takes over. It's unclear how long Jones will be sidelined, but it apparently could be as long...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 10:03 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Welbourn Reportedly Will Rejoin Chiefs
Retired offensive tackle John Welbourn reportedly is set to rejoin the Kansas City Chiefs. The Kansas City Star reported today that Welbourn will join the team next week. Welbourn was the Chiefs' starter at right tackle last season but abruptly retired in the offseason. He was suspended by the...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:56 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Crennel to Keep Closer Eye on Browns' Offense
Cleveland Browns Coach Romeo Crennel decided during his team's bye week not to fire offensive coordinator Maurice Carthon. But Crennel has not given Carthon a complete vote of confidence, instead saying that he will take a more active role in overseeing the offense even though his expertise is on...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:45 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cowboys Re-Sign Safety M. Coleman
The Dallas Cowboys re-signed veteran safety Marcus Coleman. They'd released Coleman over the weekend, just after he'd returned from serving a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. If the Cowboys had kept Coleman on the roster all weekend, the remainder of his $810,000 salary for the...
By Mark Maske | October 18, 2006; 9:42 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Lions DT Rogers Reportedly Suspended
The league reportedly suspended Detroit Lions defensive tackle Shaun Rogers for four games for testing positive for a banned substance that was in a weight-loss product....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 9:06 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Dolphins Promote Vick From Practice Squad
The Miami Dolphins promoted rookie wide receiver Marcus Vick from their practice squad to their 53-man roster. The former quarterback at Virginia Tech is the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and was signed by the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 9:02 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Winslow Expected to Rejoin Browns Wednesday After Brother's Funeral
Tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. is expected to rejoin the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday after attending his younger brother's funeral today in Kansas City, Mo. Justin K.B. Winslow reportedly was found unconscious on Thursday and was taken to a hospital but could not be revived. A cause of death...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 7:12 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Falcons Guard Lehr Suspended
The league suspended Atlanta Falcons guard Matt Lehr for four games for a violation of the steroids policy....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 7:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Texans Sign DT Dalton
The Houston Texans signed defensive tackle Lional Dalton, who was released by the Kansas City Chiefs last week. Dalton takes the roster spot of defensive tackle Seth Payne, who was placed on the injured reserve list because of a torn knee ligament....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 6:51 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Buchanon Signs With Bucs
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed cornerback Phillip Buchanon, a former first-round draft pick just released by the Houston Texans....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 6:45 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bucs Trade DT McFarland to Colts
The Indianapolis Colts obtained defensive tackle Anthony McFarland in a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a second-round draft choice next spring. The Colts are unbeaten entering Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins but their defense ranks last in the league against the run and is missing tackle...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 6:35 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
K. Robinson Suspended for One Year
The NFL suspended Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson for a minimum of one year without pay for a violation of the league's substance abuse policy. The suspension was imposed soon after Robinson pleaded not guilty earlier today to charges of drunk driving and fleeing from police related...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 6:30 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
D. Green Ousts Offensive Coordinator
Arizona Cardinals Coach Dennis Green fired his offensive coordinator today on the heels of Monday night's come-from-ahead loss to the Chicago Bears. Green ousted Keith Rowen and promoted quarterbacks coach Mike Kruczek to replace him. Rowen might remain on Green's coaching staff in another capacity. "I've known Keith for...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 3:14 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Week 7 Rankings
The Bears didn't give a No. 1-worthy performance Monday night but get to keep the top spot entering their bye week. The Chargers, Broncos, Panthers and Saints move up. The Giants become the highest-ranked NFC East team, just ahead of the Eagles and Cowboys. The Ravens and Bengals suddenly...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 2:32 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
K. Robinson Pleads Not Guilty
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson pleaded not guilty today to charges of drunk driving and fleeing from police related to a training camp incident while he was with the Minnesota Vikings. Robinson was arrested after a high-speed chase on Aug. 15 near the Vikings' training camp in...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 1:19 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Porter's Suspension Being Appealed
The NFL Players Association is appealing the four-game suspension that the Oakland Raiders imposed upon wide receiver Jerry Porter for conduct detrimental to the team. Raiders Coach Art Shell says he suspended Porter for being disruptive and insubordinate. The union calls the punishment excessive....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 1:08 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Alexander's Return Still Two Weeks Off
Seattle Seahawks officials say the cracked bone in tailback Shaun Alexander's left foot is healing but they expect the reigning league most valuable player to be sidelined for two more weeks. Alexander has missed two games. The tentative target for his return is a Nov. 6 game against the...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 1:07 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
P. Buchanon Out of Work
The Houston Texans released cornerback Phillip Buchanon on Monday. The former first-round draft pick by the Oakland Raiders had struggled with injuries and sporadic play since being obtained in a trade prior to last season....
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 1:05 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Trading Deadline Nears
The NFL's trading deadline comes at 4 p.m. today. There has been speculation that the Oakland Raiders could trade wide receiver Randy Moss, perhaps to the New England Patriots or Jacksonville Jaguars. But many executives around the league wonder whether Moss's skills have diminished to the point that he's...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 10:52 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Leinart's Play Is Bright Spot for Cardinals in Another Excruciating Loss
Amid the rubble of Monday night's inexplicable loss to the Chicago Bears that dropped their record to 1-5, the Arizona Cardinals at least could know they'd found their quarterback. In his second NFL start, rookie Matt Leinart threw for 232 yards and two touchdowns against the Bears' usually fearsome...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 10:37 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bears Now Lucky As Well As Good
It may be better to be lucky than good. But it's best of all to be lucky AND good, and that's the combination the Chicago Bears have working for them right now. The Bears, after winning their first five games by an average margin of 24 points, remained unbeaten...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2006; 10:10 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Rams Trade Hargrove to Bills
The St. Louis Rams traded defensive end Anthony Hargrove to the Buffalo Bills today for a fifth-round draft selection next spring. Hargrove was benched and fined for a recent unexcused absence from the Rams during preparations for a game. The NFL trading deadline is Tuesday....
By Mark Maske | October 16, 2006; 1:22 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Boller Provides Glimmer of Hope on Otherwise Dreary Day for Ravens
BALTIMORE--Baltimore Ravens followers seemed relieved and pleased to be able to forget about Kyle Boller, the team's former first-round draft pick turned backup quarterback, in the early going this season. The Ravens acknowledged that Boller wasn't the answer for them at quarterback when they traded for veteran Steve McNair...
By Mark Maske | October 16, 2006; 11:39 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
S. Smith's Back... And So Are the Panthers
BALTIMORE--Steve Smith is back. All the way back. And, not coincidentally, the Carolina Panthers' Super Bowl aspirations seem realistic again. With apologies to Shaun Alexander, the Seattle Seahawks' tailback who is the reigning league most valuable player, the most valuable non-quarterback in the NFL is Smith, the Panthers' diminutive...
By Mark Maske | October 16, 2006; 10:31 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cowboys Release M. Coleman
The Dallas Cowboys released veteran safety Marcus Coleman on Saturday, but could end up re-signing him at some point. Coleman just finished serving a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy, and the Cowboys would have had to guarantee his salary for the remainder of the season...
By Mark Maske | October 15, 2006; 2:02 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Raiders Suspend J. Porter
The Oakland Raiders suspended wide receiver Jerry Porter on Saturday for four games without pay for conduct detrimental to the team. Porter clashed with Coach Art Shell during the offseason and had been on the Raiders' inactive list for each of their first four games. He reportedly was spotted...
By Mark Maske | October 15, 2006; 1:32 PM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Bengals Backup QB Wright Undergoes Appendectomy
Anthony Wright, the backup quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, underwent an appendectomy today. He likely will miss at least two weeks, and Doug Johnson becomes Carson Palmer's primary backup in Wright's absence....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 5:12 PM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Titans Place TE Kinney on IR
The Tennessee Titans placed tight end Erron Kinney on the injured reserve list today, ending his season. He hasn't played all season after undergoing knee surgery during training camp. He had a career-high 55 catches for the Titans last season....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 2:54 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
A. Rolle Fined $12,500
The league fined Arizona Cardinals cornerback Antrel Rolle $12,500 for his facemask tackle of Kansas City Chiefs tailback Larry Johnson last weekend. Rolle pulled down Johnson by his facemask at the end of a 78-yard catch and run and was assessed a personal foul. Johnson hurt his neck on...
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 2:47 PM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Cards DT Dockett Gets Five-Year Extension
The Arizona Cardinals signed defensive tackle Darnell Dockett to a five-year contract extension. He would have been a restricted free agent after the season....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 2:40 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cowboys Cut Kickoff Specialist
The Dallas Cowboys released kicker Shaun Suisham. That leaves Mike Vanderjagt to handle kickoffs as well as field goal duties. Coach Bill Parcells reluctantly had been keeping Suisham on the roster because Vanderjagt was being plagued by groin problems....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 10:36 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bills Release T. Vincent Off IR List
The Buffalo Bills released veteran safety Troy Vincent off their injured reserve list. Vincent had asked to be released. He has recovered from a hamstring injury and now is free to sign with another team....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 10:32 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Patriots Center Koppen Agrees to Extension
Center Dan Koppen agreed to a five-year contract extension with the New England Patriots. He would have been eligible for unrestricted free agency in the spring....
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 10:29 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
D. Green Doing His Best to Remain Hopeful as Cardinals' Season Spirals Downward Again
LAKE FOREST, Ill.--Earlier this season, Dennis Green acknowledged that he wondered at times whether he ever will get things turned around with the Arizona Cardinals. On Thursday, though, Green did his best to be more hopeful during a conference call with Chicago-area reporters. "We just haven't gotten over the...
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 10:17 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Bears Say They're Taking Leinart, Cardinals Seriously
LAKE FOREST, Ill.--The Chicago Bears have an unbeaten record and perhaps the league's best defense, and they'll face a rookie quarterback on Monday night in Arizona when they play Matt Leinart and the Cardinals. But Bears defenders said here Thursday that Leinart, after spending most of his college career...
By Mark Maske | October 13, 2006; 9:54 AM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Steelers Sign C. Brown For Help at LB
The Pittsburgh Steelers today signed veteran linebacker Chad Brown. Brown, 36, spent last season with the New England Patriots. He spent his first four seasons with the Steelers after being selected by the club in the second round of the 1993 NFL draft. The Steelers are thin at linebacker...
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 2:13 PM ET | CommentsComments (1)
Week 6 Picks
Local Teams Titans at Redskins The Titans gave the Colts a scare, but they're still just as bad as anyone in the league. Pick: Redskins Panthers at Ravens These are two heavyweights. The Panthers--with Steve Smith--can beat anyone. Pick: Panthers Lock of the Week Raiders at Broncos (Sunday night)...
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 2:00 PM ET | CommentsComments (4)
Schottenheimer Not Letting Chargers Get Carried Away With Early-Season Success
San Diego Chargers Coach Marty Schottenheimer apparently wants to guard against his players becoming complacent after Sunday's triumph over the Pittsburgh Steelers raised the club's record to 3-1. Schottenheimer assailed his players with a profanity-laced tirade when Wednesday's practice was not up to his standards....
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 11:48 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Injuries Now Plaguing Steelers' Defense
Things aren't getting immediately better for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Linebacker Joey Porter and cornerback Deshea Townsend suffered hamstring injuries during Wednesday's practice. It's unclear if they'll be able to play for the struggling defending Super Bowl champions on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Porter's injury could be particularly...
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 11:43 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Bucs Get CB Strait Off Waivers
Cornerback Derrick Strait, released by the New York Jets on Tuesday, was claimed off waivers by several teams and awarded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Jets signed cornerback Hank Poteat to replace Strait on the roster....
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 11:39 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
C. Martin Might Practice Next Week
Veteran tailback Curtis Martin might practice with the New York Jets next week, when he's eligible to come off the physically unable to perform list. Martin has been sidelined since the outset of training camp by a knee problem, and it has been unclear whether he would play all...
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 11:37 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Seahawks WR Engram Sidelined By Possible Thyroid Problem
The Seattle Seahawks probably will be without wide receiver Bobby Engram this weekend. Engram has been sick, and doctors have told team officials that the illness could be related to his thyroid....
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 11:33 AM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Cowher Doing His Best to Stay Calm as Times Get Increasingly Desperate for Defending Champs
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in trouble. The defending Super Bowl champions have a record of 1-3. They're on a three-game losing streak since the return of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who has no touchdown passes while throwing seven interceptions this season. Their one victory, a season-opening triumph over the Miami...
By Mark Maske | October 12, 2006; 10:30 AM ET | CommentsComments (2)
Foley Charged With DUI
San Diego Chargers linebacker Steve Foley was charged today with two counts of misdemeanor DUI. The charges stem from a Sept. 3 incident in which Foley was shot by an off-duty police officer who followed Foley's car to the player's home. Foley is home recovering from his wounds and...
By Mark Maske | October 11, 2006; 9:34 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Rams Sign LB to Extension
The St. Louis Rams signed linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa to a five-year contract extension. He would have been eligible for unrestricted free agency next spring....
By Mark Maske | October 11, 2006; 9:25 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Falcons Could Have Abraham Back in Lineup This Weekend
Defensive end John Abraham participated in the Atlanta Falcons' practice today and appears ready to return to the lineup this weekend. He has been sidelined since suffering a groin injury in the season opener....
By Mark Maske | October 11, 2006; 9:22 PM ET | CommentsComments (0)
Owens Says He's Frustrated
After reportedly screaming, "Why am I here?!" on the sideline and in the locker room in Philadelphia on Sunday, during and after the Dallas Cowboys' loss to the Eagles, wide receiver Terrell Owens told reporters today in Irving, Tex., he's frustrated because the Cowboys aren't winning and his production...
By Mark Maske | October 11, 2006; 9:17 PM ET | CommentsComments (1)