Bengals Vote to Decertify Union

The Cincinnati Bengals players voted unanimously to authorize the NFLPA to decertify itself next year, Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Decertification would allow the union to sue the NFL under United States anti-trust laws should the owners force a work stoppage.

Unofficially, here's the list of teams who have voted to decertify:

Baltimore Ravens
Buffalo Bills
Cincinnati Bengals
Dallas Cowboys
Indianapolis Colts
New Orleans Saints
New York Giants
New York Jets
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins

The New England Patriots were scheduled to hold their vote on Monday, but it was delayed as NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith was in Atlanta to attend the funeral services for Denver Broncos wide receiver Kenny McKinley.

NFL Injury Report - 2010 Week 4 (Thursday)

Below are the injury/practice participation reports for Thursday, September 30, 2010:

San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons

San Francisco

Did not participate: WR Ted Ginn (knee)
Limited participation: S Dashon Goldson (knee, foot), C Eric Heitmann (leg), CB Will James (ankle), S Michael Lewis (ankle), LB Takeo Spikes (knee)

Atlanta

Did not participate: LB Sean Weatherspoon (ankle)
Limited participation: WR Michael Jenkins (shoulder), S Erik Coleman (knee)

New York Jets at Buffalo Bills

NY Jets

Did not participate: T Wayne Hunter (shin), LB Calvin Pace (foot), CB Darrelle Revis (hamstring), LB Jamaal Westerman (ankle), T Damien Woody (personal)
Limited participation: C Nick Mangold (shoulder), LB Jason Taylor (elbow)

Buffalo

Out: LB Andra Davis (shoulder), DE Marcus Stroud (ankle),
Did not participate: CB Terrence McGee (knee)
Limited participation: TE Jonathan Stupar (foot)
Full participation: Paul Posluszny (knee)

Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati

Did not participate: DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring)
Limited participation: DE Antwan Odom (wrist), LB Keith Rivers (foot), WR Jordan Shipley (shoulder), LB Dan Skuta (ankle)
Full participation: RB Cedric Benson (knee), CB Adam Jones (shoulder)

Cleveland

Did not participate: DE Kenyon Coleman (knee), CB Derrick Roberson (hip), DT Shaun Rogers (ankle, hip), DE Robaire Smith (back), T John St. Clair (ankle), LB Jason Trusnik (head)
Limited participation: WR Joshua Cribbs (ankle), RB James Davis (thigh), QB Jake Delhomme (ankle), RB Jerome Harrison (thigh), G Shawn Lauvao (ankle), WR Brian Robiskie (hamstring), RB Lawrence Vickers (groin)
Full participation: LB Marcus Benard (ankle), T Joe Thomas (elbow)

Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

Detroit

Did not participate: RB Jahvid Best (toe), RB Aaron Brown (finger), WR Nate Burleson (ankle), DT Sammie Lee Hill (ankle), LB DeAndre Levy (groin), QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder)
Limited participation: DE Cliff Avril (knee, finger), S C.C. Brown (forearm), S Louis Delmas (groin, biceps, calf), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (back)
Full participation: , LB Zack Follett (concussion), CB Chris Houston (knee), LB Landon Johnson (neck), G Stephen Peterman (foot)

Green Bay

Did not participate: LB Brandon Chillar, S Nick Collins (knee)
Limited participation: LB Brady Poppinga (hamstring), CB Sam Shields (calf)
Full participation: T Chad Clifton (knee), DE Cullen Jenkins (hand), LB Brad Jones (knee), S Derrick Martin (ankle), DE Mike Neal (rib), S Charlie Peprah (quadricep), CB Charles Woodson (toe)

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints

Carolina

Did not participate: DE Tyler Brayton (ankle), DE Greg Hardy (foot), LB Jamar Williams (neck)
Limited participation: G Mackenzy Bernadeau (shoulder), G Travelle Wharton (ankle)

New Orleans

Did not participate: RB Reggie Bush (fibula), S Roman Harper (hamstring), RB Pierre Thomas (ankle), LB Anthony Waters (hamstring)
Limited participation: S Usama Young (quadriceps)

Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore

Out: LB Tavares Gooden (shoulder), WR Donte Stallworth (foot)
Did not participate: T Jared Gaither (back), TE Edgar Jones (thigh)
Limited participation: CB Chris Carr (thigh), LB Jarrett Johnson (back), G/T Tony Moll (hip), DE Cory Redding (head), RB Ray Rice (knee)
Full participation: C Matt Birk (back), G Chris Chester (back), TE Todd Heap (shoulder)

Pittsburgh

Did not participate: QB Dennis Dixon (knee), G Trai Essex (ankle), NT Chris Hoke (knee)

Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams

Seattle

Out: LB Leroy Hill (calf/Achilles)
Did not participate: DE Chris Clemons (ankle), T Sean Locklear (knee), DT Brandon Mebane (calf), CB Marcus Trufant (ankle), DE E.J. Wilson (knee)
Limited participation: LB Aaron Curry (hamstring)
Full participation: G Ben Hamilton (knee), T Russell Okung (ankle), WR Mike Williams (shoulder)

St. Louis

Did not participate: S Oshiomogho Atogwe (thigh), TE Billy Bajema (knee), LB Chris Chamberlain (toe), TE Michael Hoomanawanui (ankle), RB Steven Jackson (groin), WR Laurent Robinson (foot), DT Clifton Ryan (migraines), DT Darell Scott (ankle), S Darian Stewart (hamstring)
Limited participation: S Craig Dahl (head), RB Keith Toston (shoulder)

Denver Broncos at Tennessee Titans

Denver

Did not participate: FB Spencer Larsen (ankle), RB Knowshon Moreno (hamstring), LB Wesley Woodyard (hamstring), NT Jamal Williams (not injury related)
Limited participation: CB Andre Goodman (quadriceps), T Ryan Harris (ankle)
Full participation: S Brian Dawkins (ankle)

Tennessee

Did not practice: DT Tony Brown (knee), DE Jacob Ford (knee), CB Jason McCourty (forearm)

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars

Indianapolis

Did not participate: RB Donald Brown (hamstring), LB Kavell Connor (foot), WR Pierre Garcon (hamstring), WR Anthony Gonzalez (ankle), CB Brandon King (hamstring), S Bob Sanders (biceps)
Limited participation: WR Austin Collie (knee), G Jamey Richard (shoulder)
Full participation: RB Joseph Addai (knee), LB Gary Brackett (back), DE Dwight Freeney (rest), T Charlie Johnson (foot), CB Jerraud Powers (foot), C Jeff Saturday (knee), LB Clint Session (hamstring)

Jacksonville

Did not participate:LB Justin Durant (ankle)
Limited participation: S Sean Considine (hamstring), CB Rashean Mathis (thigh)
Full participation: DT Landon Cohen (knee)

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders

Houston

Out: LB Kevin Bentley (knee)
Did not participate: TE Owen Daniels (hamstring), WR Andre Johnson (ankle), S Eugene Wilson (hamstring)
Limited participation: LB Darryl Sharpton (ankle)
Full participation: LB Xavier Adibi (hamstring), LB DeMeco Ryans (quadricep), DE Mario Williams (groin)

Oakland

Did not practice: LB Ricky Brown (hamstring), WR Chaz Schilens (knee), G Robert Gallery (hamstring), LB Travis Goethel (lower back), DT John Henderson (foot), S Hiram Eugene (hamstring), CB Walter McFadden (hamstring), WR Louis Murphy (clavicle)
Limited participation: G Cooper Carlisle (knee), G Langston Walker (elbow), CB Jeremy Ware (ankle), TE Zach Miller (hip), G Daniel Loper (knee), DE Richard Seymour (hamstring), CB Chris Johnson (neck)
Full participation: RB Michael Bush (thumb), LB Quentin Groves (ribs), FB Marcel Reece (neck)

Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles

Washington

Limited participation: P Josh Bidwell (right hip), DT Anthony Bryant (head), CB DeAngelo Hall (back), G Kory Lichtensteiger (knee), T Trent Williams (toe,knee)
Full participation: WR Anthony Armstrong (groin), S Chris Horton (ankle), DT Albert Haynesworth (thumb), S Kareem Moore (knee), RB Keiland Williams (ankle)

Philadelphia

Did not participate: RB Mike Bell (illness), C/G Nick Cole (knee)
Full participation: TE Brent Celek (wrist), DE Brandon Graham (ankle), T Austin Howard (back), WR Jeremy Maclin (back), LB Ernie Sims (ankle)

Arizona Cardinals at San Diego Chargers

Arizona

Did not participate: WR Steve Breaston (knee), WR Early Doucet (groin), LB Paris Lenon (pelvis)
Limited participation: G Alan Faneca (back), RB Chris Wells (knee)

San Diego

Out: LB Larry English (foot)
Did not participate: G Kris Dielman (illness), LB Shawne Merriman (calf), LB Brandon Siler (foot), S Darrell Stuckey (hamstring), G Louis Vasquez (knee)

Chicago Bears at New York Giants

Chicago

Did not participate: G Roberto Garza (knee), T Chris Williams (hamstring), S Major Wright (hamstring)
Limited participation: S Chris Harris (neck), DE Israel Idonije (foot)

NY Giants

Out: T Will Beatty (foot)
Did not participate: DT Rocky Bernard (back), LB Keith Bulluck (toe), C Shaun O'Hara (ankle/Achilles)

New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins

New England

Did not participate: T Nick Kaczur (back), RB Fred Taylor (toe), CB Terrence Wheatley (foot)
Full participation: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder)

Miami

Did not participate: G John Jerry (illness), DE Jared Odrick (ankle)
Limited participation: LB Channing Crowder (groin)
Full participation: T Jake Long (knee)

Seahawks Release G Chester Pitts

The Seattle Seahawks have released guard Chester Pitts, reports Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network.

La Canfora adds that Pitts' surgically-repaired knee had not recovered enough to be ready for game action, and the Seahawks need his roster spot. The Seahawks listed Pitts, who is attempting to comeback from microfracture surgery, as a "Full Participant" on Wednesday's injury report.

Prior to joining the Seahawks, Pitts had spent his entire NFL career with the Houston Texans, who selected him in the second-round in the 2002 NFL Draft out of San Diego State. Pitts had started 114 consecutive games for the Texans before his season-ending injury last September.

Part of the reason for signing Pitts was that he was familiar with the zone-blocking system of Alex Gibbs, who joined Pete Carroll's coaching staff in February. Gibbs resigned before the start of the season, with Art Valero handling those duties.

Gibbs' system preferred smaller, more athletic offensive linemen. Since Gibbs' resignation, the Seahawks have brought in larger-bodied individuals such as a Tyler Polumbus and Breno Giacomini, who are each 6-7 and weight between 300 and 310 pounds. The Seahawks have also traded for Stacy Andrews, a 6-6, 342-pound tackle who has started the last two games at right guard.

Ben Hamilton likely remains the team's starting left guard, though newly signed Allen Barbre was mentioned as a "left guard" candidate by Carroll on Wednesday.

The Seahawks have also re-signed guard Mike Gibson to the practice squad. Running back Chris Henry was released.

Player Agent Facing NFLPA Suspension

Yahoo! Sports uncovered documents which show that, in addition to a lengthy friendship, NFL player agent Gary Wichard and former University of North Carolina assistant defensive line coach John Blake had a long-standing working and financial relationship, as well.

Yahoo's report also discovered that Wichard's agency, Pro Tect Management, may have paid for UNC defensive lineman Marvin Austin's hotel bills during off-season workouts at ProActive Sports, a facility located a half-mile from Pro Tect's offices in Westlake Village, California.

Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Kentwan Balmer, a former teammate of Austin's at UNC and client of Wichard's, is said to have paid for the room during one of Austin's stays, but his name does not appear on the hotel room receipts. Instead, that receipt lists Pro Tect Management, as well as the name and Marriott Rewards points of Fadde Mikhail, an NFL marketing agent who works with several Wichard clients, including Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller.

Blake resigned earlier this month from the University of North Carolina, which has suspended Austin indefinitely.

Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports reports that Wichard faces suspension by the NFLPA's Committee on Agent Regulations and Discipline. That committee is expected to meet to discuss the Wichard case, as well as cases against other agents who have run afoul of union rules, in the near future.

Active Wichard Clients (by team)

Arizona Cardinals DE Calais Campbell
Atlanta Falcons DE Jamaal Anderson
Baltimore Ravens LB Terrell Suggs
Buffalo Bills RB C.J. Spiller
Carolina Panthers QB Jimmy Clausen
Denver Broncos LB Elvis Dumervil
Green Bay Packers RB Brandon Jackson
Indianapolis Colts DE Dwight Freeney
Minnesota Vikigns DE Everson Griffen
New York Giants LB Keith Bulluck
New York Jets CB Antonio Cromartie
New York Jets LB Jason Taylor
Oakland Raiders DT Tommy Kelly
Philadelphia Eagles DT Brodrick Bunkley
San Diego Chargers DT Travis Johnson
San Diego Chargesr RB Darren Sproles
San Francisco 49ers LB Bruce Davis
San Francisco 49ers LS Brian Jennings
San Francisco 49ers S Taylor Mays
Seattle Seahawks DL Kentwan Balmer
Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Arrelious Benn
Washington Redskins TE Chris Cooley

Jaguars Avoid Blackout

The Jacksonville Jaguars' home game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday will be shown on local television, the team announced.

By avoiding a blackout, the 1-2 Jaguars improve to 3-for-3 in avoiding television blackouts on the 2010 season.

Over 6,000 tickets remain for the Jaguars fourth home game, a Monday Night Football game against the Tennessee Titans on October 18.

Rams Request Blackout Extension

The St. Louis Rams have requested a 24-hour extension from the NFL to sell enough tickets to avoid having Sunday's game blacked out on local television.

Approximately 6,000 tickets remain available for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks, who the Rams have lost 10 straight games to.

Sunday will be the Rams' third home game of the season, with the first two, against the Arizona Cardinals and Washington Redskins, selling enough tickets to avoid a blackout.

As the Rams have gone 7-44 over the last 3+ seasons, blackouts in St. Louis have become more common. Nine of the last 27 Rams home games have not been broadcast locally, and the club now has until 12pm CST to avoid another one.

Jets CB Darelle Revis Won't Play vs. Buffalo

New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis says won't play on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.

Revis injured his left hamstring in the Jets' Week 2 win over the New England Patriots and missed last week's win over the Miami Dolphins. Revis' injury was scheduled to keep him out for 1-2 weeks, and Revis was a "Did not participate" during Wednesday's practice.

The Jets host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football on October 11.

With Revis out, Drew Coleman is expected to get the start opposite Antonio Cromartie, with 2010 first-round pick Kyle Wilson playing a nickel cornerback role.

Jim Mora Does Not Like Line of Questioning

You've undoubtedly heard about it by now, but former NFL head coach and current NFL Network and FOX Sports analyst Jim Mora went on Colin Cowherd's radio show on ESPN Radio to promote his interview with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick.

Mora's interview with Vick will air on Sunday morning.

ESPN Radio host Doug Gottlieb, who was filling in for Colin Cowherd, asked Mora about Vick, including suggesting that Mora could still be the head coach of the Falcons had Vick had bought into being a professional back then.

That suggestion clearly did not sit well with Mora, who said "Ah, I don't live in the past, pal. You might, but I'm looking forward and I'm just happy for Mike."

To move things along, Gottlieb changes subjects, and asks Mora how Philadelphia Eagles should feel when Donovan McNabb's return to Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday.

Mora, who has a history of poor radio interviews, does not come across in a positive light. But neither does Gottlieb, who was out of line for trying to create controversy by suggesting that Mora might still be the head coach in Atlanta had Vickd been more dedicated to his craft, and for asking Mora how 70,000 fans in Philadelphia "should feel" about McNabb's return.

The 2:33 portion of that interview is a radio train wreck.



(H/T: The Big Lead)

Patriots Re-Sign RB Thomas Clayton; Release OT Quinn Ojinnaka

The New England Patriots announced the signing of running back Thomas Clayton off the Cleveland Browns' practice squad.

Offensive tackle Quinn Ojinnaka has been released.

Clayton, a sixth-round pick (186th overall) out of Kansas State by the San Francisco 49ers in 2007, led the 49ers in rushing during the 2007 and 2008 pre-seasons, and spent much of his first two seasons on the 49ers' practice squad. Clayton injured his knee and spent the 2009 on injured reserve.

Signed by the Patriots in June, Clayton gained 34 yards on 15 carries for New England during the 2010 pre-season, but was released on September 4.

New England acquired Ojinnaka, a restricted free agent, from the Atlanta Falcons in August, and re-structured his contract, lowering his base salary from $1.176 million to $640,000.

Ojinnaka was suspended for the first game of the regular season after violating the league's personal conduct policy, and has been a gameday inactive in the two weeks since returning to the active roster.

The 6-5, 312-pound Ojinnaka was chosen in the fifth-round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of Syracuse, and has started 12 games in the NFL.

Lions Release S Randy Phillips

The Detroit Lions have released rookie safety Randy Phillips, reports Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Veteran safety Dante Wesley has been re-signed.

An undrafted free agent from Miami, Phillips (6-1, 210) appeared in all three of the Lions' games this season, totaling four tackles in a reserve role behind starters Louis Delmas and C.C. Brown.

Wesley signed a two-year deal with the Lions in April, but was released as part of the team's final roster cuts earlier this month.

Wesley (6-1, 210) has spent seven of his eight seasons in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, who selected him out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the fourth-round (100th overall) of the 2002 NFL Draft.

After spending the first four seasons of his career with the Panthers, Wesley signed with the Chicago Bears for the 2006 season. The following August, Wesley was traded to the New England Patriots, who released him prior to the regular season. Wesley re-signed with the Panthers, where he's spent the last three seasons.

A starter in just two of his 104 career games, 54 of Wesley's 103 career tackles have come as a core member of his team's special teams units. Lions first-year special teams coach Danny Crossman was the Panthers' special teams coach from 2005-09.

If he clears waivers, the Lions are likely to sign Phillips to their practice squad.

Trevor Pryce Reportedly Signs With the Jets

According to Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs, his former teammate defensive end Trevor Pryce has signed with the New York Jets.

"kinda sad 2day. my boy trevor pryce signed wit the JETS!!!!!" Suggs posted to his Twitter timeline. "happy for him but would rather he be on my team!!!!! "

Pryce, 35, was released by the Ravens on Wednesday so the team could re-sign safety Ken Hamlin. The Ravens expressed the intent to re-sign Pryce at some point this season, but the Jets have reportedly eliminated that option.

A former first-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 1997, the 6-5, 290-pound Pryce has 90 career quarterback sacks, including a team-high 6.5 for the Ravens in 2009.

By signing with the Jets, Pryce reunites with Rex Ryan, who was the Ravens' defensive coordinator when Pryce signed with Baltimore as an unrestricted free agent in 2006. Pryce had a career-high 47 tackles and 13 quarterbacks sacks that season.

Part of Pryce's release stemmed from a lack of production this season, but he will add depth to a defensive line that has lost Ripoti Pitoitua and Kris Jenkins to season-ending injuries.

Jaguars Sign LB Alvin Bowen to Practice Squad

The Jacksonville Jaguars have re-signed linebacker Alvin Bowen to their practice squad.

A fifth-round pick (147th overall) out of Iowa State by the Buffalo Bills in 2008, Bowen had one tackle in two games for the Jaguars this season. Bowen was waived on Tuesday after the Jaguars claimed quarterback Trent Edwards, Bowen's former teammate in Buffalo, off waivers.

The return of Bowen, and arrival of Edwards, means the departure of Keith Null, a second-year quarterback out of West Texas A&M who was signed to the practice squad on Monday.

Chris Kelsay Contract Details

Buffalo Bills linebacker Chris Kelsay signed a four-year contract extension on Tuesday, which the Buffalo News reports included a $2 million option bonus that Kelsay receives "right away".

NFL records show that Kelsay's 2010 base salary has increased from $3.7 million to $4,161,429, which creates a prorated amount of $4.08 million in base salary for this season. (3/17ths of $3.7M base plus 14/17ths of $4.161429M base)

That amount may appear funky, but due to the 30% rule governing extensions in the uncapped season, this is the maximum allowable base salary increase Kelsay could have received in 2010.

Kelsay's previous contract created a 30% threshold--previous year's base salary plus amounts not treated as signing bonus (option bonus proration, roster/workout bonuses)--of $3.6 million. This figure is comprised of a $3M base salary plus $500,000 roster bonus and $100,000 workout bonus in 2009.

Therefore, the most Kelsay's 2010 "salary number" (base salary + option bonus proration, roster/workout bonuses) could increase to is $4.68 million.

Kelsay received the $600,000 in roster/workout bonuses, and when that is combined with the $652,941 Kelsay received the first three weeks of this season, and the $3,427,059 he'll receive over the remaining 14 weeks, you reach a total of $4.68 million.

Kelsay's Base Salaries (2011-14)

2011: $2M
2012: $3.5M
2013: $3.725M
2014: $3.745M

Kelsay's four-year extension is reportedly worth $20 million. How much of that is guaranteed remains unknown.

In terms of "new money", $13.35 million is available in base salary ($380,000 increase in 2010 plus $12.97M from 2011-14), with the $2 million option bonus increasing the "new money" total to $15.35 million. Presumably, there roster/workout bonuses available throughout the life of the deal that push the total value up to the $20 million that has been reported.

An additional $4 million is available in incentives.

I'll try as best I can to track down the additional details to this extension.

NFL News and Notes - September 30, 2010

Buffalo Bills linebacker Chris Kelsay is thrilled to have an opportunity to finish his career in Buffalo.

New England Patriots rookie tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez may give them an edge against the Dolphins on Monday night.

New York Jets linebacker Calvin Pace is frustrated by his slow recovery from a broken foot, reports Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Ikaika Alama-Francis is trying to pack on weight after an illness dropped 20 pounds off his frame.

Baltimore Ravens running backs Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain doubt that Ray Rice would miss this week's game against the Steelers.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dennis Dixon says he's a quick healer.

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi shrugged off the team's struggles in the passing game.

It's only a matter of time before Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Andre Smith is the starting right tackle, writes Chick Ludwig of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Linebacker Tyjuan Hagler re-signed with the Indianapolis Colts, and could play right away, reports Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.

Tennessee Titans fourth-round cornerback Alterraun Verner is preparing to make his first NFL start.

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trent Edwards is looking forward to his fresh start.

Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub is being sacked with more frequency this season, reports John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.

After missing the last two games with a knee injury, Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tyson Jackson moved closer to returning to action on Wednesday.

The Denver Broncos aren't panicking over their lack of success in the red zone and on third down in Sunday's loss to the Colts, writes Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post.

San Diego Chargers first-round running back Ryan Mathews returned to practice on Wednesday.

Oakland Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey is developing into a reliable receiving option, writes Steve Corkran of the Oakland Tribune.

A rusty Russell Okung returned to Seattle Seahawks practice on Wednesday.

San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Johnson's rapport with quarterback Alex Smith was behind his promotion, reports Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com.

Arizona Cardinals rookie wide receivers Stephen Williams and Max Komar will be tested on Sunday, writes Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic.

The St. Louis Rams will be looking to end a couple of losing streaks this week.

Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins regrets his encounter with a fan after Monday night's loss to the Bears.

Minnesota Vikings linebacker Ben Leber is seeing limited snaps in nickel defense, reports Judd Zulgad of the Star Tribune.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson needs to be more involved in the offense, writes Bob Wojnowski of the Detroit News.

Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris will likely return to action on Sunday nigh against the Giants.

Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips is considering alternatives at linebacker in nickel situations, reports Jan Hubbard of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

New York Giants rookie wide receiver Victor Cruz may see increased playing time on Sunday night.

It's been slow, but Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Darryl Tapp is adjusting to Sean McDermott's defense.

Washington Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb isn't sure of how he'll feel when he faces his former team on Sunday.

The Carolina Panthers are dipping into their depth at defensive tackle, writes Darin Gantt of the Charlotte Observer.

Atlanta Falcons first-round linebacker Sean Weatherspoon missed practice on Wednesday with an ankle injury.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman is looking to improve the team's red zone offense.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees' knee is just sore, head coach Sean Payton said.

Today's NFL birthdays: Bengals cornerback Adam Jones (27) and guard Jason Shirley (25), Broncos practice squad safety Kyle McCarthy (24), Packers fullback Quinn Johnson (25), Jets practice squad defensive end Jarron Gilbert (24), 49ers defensive end Justin Smith (31), Rams linebacker Chris Chamberlain (24), Redskins linebacker H.B. Blades (26), free agent linebackers Chris Graham (26), Arnold Harrison (28) and Marcus Richardson (26), cornerbacks Marcus Sherels (23) and Darius Vinnett (26), and wide receiver Taj Smith-Wilson (27), retired NFL running back Jamal Anderson (38) and defensive tackle Brentson Buckner (39).

Wrong Phone Number Printed On Ochocinco's Cereal Box

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco's limited edition "Ochocincos" breakfast cereal are going towards the Feed the Children charity.

The charities phone number is printed on the box, but as Jennifer Baker of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports, the number is incorrect and instead directs callers to an adult phone sex line.

Ochocinco said the typo was clearly a mmistake, and that he was not responsible for it, directing inquiries to Pittsburgh-based PLB Sports, which also handles athlete-endorsed food products for Terrell Owens, Hines Ward, Jerome Bettis, Kurt Warner, and Doug Flutie. (Dustin Pedroia's black bean salsa is sold here in MA, and is actually quite good.)

Cowboys HC Wade Phillips Ok With $55K Dinner Tab

Dallas Cowboys rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant's $55,000 tab at a Dallas steakhouse on Monday night has evoked an array of reactions.

After Bryant refused to honor the rookie tradition of carrying a veteran's shoulder pads during training camp--specifically those belonging to wide receiver Roy Williams, who invited the defense, thus doubling the size of the check--some are amused that Bryant had to pay such a large dinner tab.

Others are disgusted by the forced demonstration of one's wealth at a time when so many in this country are struggling to put food on their table.

Others, like Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips, are just wondering where their invite was.

"It's OK with me if I'm invited," Phillips said of the $55,000 bill, according to Todd Archer of the Dallas Morning News. "I wasn't invited, so I don't like it."

Archer notes that other rookies on the offensive side of the ball picked up a share of the bill, including sixth-round offensive tackle Sam Young.

NFL Injury Report - 2010 Week 4 (Wednesday)

Below are the injury/practice participation reports for Wednesday, September 29, 2010:

San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons

San Francisco

Did not participate: WR Ted Ginn (knee), LB Takeo Spikes (knee)
Limited participation: S Dashon Goldson (knee, foot), C Eric Heitmann (leg), CB Will James (ankle), S Michael Lewis (ankle)

Atlanta

Did not participate: LB Sean Weatherspoon (ankle)
Limited participation: WR Michael Jenkins (shoulder), S Erik Coleman (knee)

New York Jets at Buffalo Bills

NY Jets

Did not participate: T Wayne Hunter (shin), LB Calvin Pace (foot), CB Darrelle Revis (hamstring), LB Jamaal Westerman (ankle), T Damien Woody (personal)
Limited participation: C Nick Mangold (shoulder), LB Jason Taylor (elbow)

Buffalo

Did not participate: LB Andra Davis (shoulder), DE Marcus Stroud (ankle), TE Jonathan Stupar (foot)
Limited participation: Paul Posluszny (knee)

Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati

Did not participate: RB Cedric Benson (knee), DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring)
Limited participation: CB Adam Jones (shoulder), DE Antwan Odom (wrist), LB Keith Rivers (foot), WR Jordan Shipley (shoulder), LB Dan Skuta (ankle)

Cleveland

Did not participate: DE Kenyon Coleman (knee), QB Jake Delhomme (ankle), CB Derrick Roberson (hip), DT Shaun Rogers (ankle, hip), DE Robaire Smith (back), T John St. Clair (ankle), LB Jason Trusnik (head), RB Lawrence Vickers (groin)
Limited participation: WR Joshua Cribbs (ankle), RB James Davis (thigh), RB Jerome Harrison (thigh), G Shawn Lauvao (ankle), WR Brian Robiskie (hamstring)
Full participation: LB Marcus Benard (ankle), T Joe Thomas (elbow)

Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers

Detroit

Did not participate: RB Jahvid Best (toe), RB Aaron Brown (finger), WR Nate Burleson (ankle), S Louis Delmas (groin, biceps, calf), DT Sammie Lee Hill (ankle), LB DeAndre Levy (groin), QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder)
Limited participation: DE Cliff Avril (knee, finger), S C.C. Brown (forearm), LB Zack Follett (concussion), CB Chris Houston (knee), LB Landon Johnson (neck), G Stephen Peterman (foot)

Green Bay

Did not participate: LB Brandon Chillar
Limited participation: T Chad Clifton (knee), S Nick Collins (knee), S Charlie Peprah (quadricep), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Full participation: DE Cullen Jenkins (hand), LB Brad Jones (knee), S Derrick Martin (ankle), DE Mike Neal (rib)

Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints

Carolina

Did not participate: DE Tyler Brayton (ankle), DE Greg Hardy (foot), LB Jamar Williams (neck)
Limited participation: G Mackenzy Bernadeau (shoulder), G Travelle Wharton (ankle)

New Orleans

Did not participate: RB Reggie Bush (fibula), S Roman Harper (hamstring), RB Pierre Thomas (ankle), LB Anthony Waters (hamstring)
Limited participation: S Usama Young (quadriceps)

Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore

Out: LB Tavares Gooden (shoulder), WR Donte Stallworth (foot)
Did not participate: G/T Tony Moll (hip), DE Cory Redding (head), RB Ray Rice (knee)
Limited participation: T Jared Gaither (back), LB Jarrett Johnson (back)
Full participation: C Matt Birk (back), G Chris Chester (back), TE Todd Heap (shoulder)

Pittsburgh

Did not participate: QB Dennis Dixon (knee), G Trai Essex (ankle), NT Chris Hoke (knee)

Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams

Seattle

Out: LB Leroy Hill (calf/Achilles)
Did not participate: LB Aaron Curry (hamstring), G Ben Hamilton (knee), DT Brandon Mebane (calf), CB Marcus Trufant (ankle), DE E.J. Wilson (knee)
Limited participation: T Sean Locklear (knee)
Full participation: T Russell Okung (ankle), G/T Chester Pitts (knee), WR Mike Williams (shoulder)

St. Louis

Did not participate: S Oshiomogho Atogwe (thigh), TE Billy Bajema (knee), LB Chris Chamberlain (toe), TE Michael Hoomanawanui (ankle), RB Steven Jackson (groin), WR Laurent Robinson (foot), DT Clifton Ryan (migraines), DT Darell Scott (ankle), S Darian Stewart (hamstring)
Limited participation: S Craig Dahl (head), RB Keith Toston (shoulder)

Denver Broncos at Tennessee Titans

Denver

Did not participate: S Brian Dawkins (ankle), FB Spencer Larsen (ankle), WR Brandon Lloyd (not injury related), RB Knowshon Moreno (hamstring), LB Wesley Woodyard (hamstring)
Limited participation: CB Andre Goodman (quadriceps), T Ryan Harris (ankle)

Tennessee

Did not practice: DT Tony Brown (knee), DE Jacob Ford (knee), CB Jason McCourty (forearm)

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars

Indianapolis

Did not participate: RB Donald Brown (hamstring), LB Kavell Connor (foot), DE Dwight Freeney (rest), WR Pierre Garcon (hamstring), WR Anthony Gonzalez (ankle), CB Brandon King (hamstring), S Bob Sanders (biceps), LB Clint Session (hamstring)
Full participation: RB Joseph Addai (knee), LB Gary Brackett (back), T Charlie Johnson (foot), CB Jerraud Powers (foot), C Jeff Saturday (knee)

Jacksonville

Did not participate: S Sean Considine (hamstring), LB Justin Durant (ankle)
Limited participation: DT Landon Cohen (knee)

Houston Texans at Oakland Raiders

Houston

Out: LB Kevin Bentley (knee)
Did not participate: WR Andre Johnson (ankle), WR Darryl Sharpton (ankle), S Eugene Wilson (hamstring)
Limited participation: TE Owen Daniels (hamstring)
Full participation: LB DeMeco Ryans (quadricep), DE Mario Williams (groin)

Oakland

Did not practice: LB Ricky Brown (hamstring), WR Chaz Schilens (knee), G Robert Gallery (hamstring), LB Travis Goethel (lower back), DT John Henderson (foot), DE Richard Seymour (hamstring), S Hiram Eugene (hamstring), CB Chris Johnson (neck), CB Walter McFadden (hamstring), WR Louis Murphy (clavicle)
Limited participation: G Cooper Carlisle (knee), G Langston Walker (elbow), CB Jeremy Ware (undisclosed), TE Zach Miller (hip), G Daniel Loper (knee)
Full participation: RB Michael Bush (thumb), LB Quentin Groves (ribs), FB Marcel Reece (neck)

Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles

Washington

Did not participate: P Josh Bidwell (right hip)
Limited participation: DT Anthony Bryant (head), CB DeAngelo Hall (back), G Kory Lichtensteiger (knee), T Trent Williams (toe,knee)
Full participation: WR Anthony Armstrong (groin), S Chris Horton (ankle), DT Albert Haynesworth (thumb), S Kareem Moore (knee), RB Clinton Portis (wrist), RB Keiland Williams (ankle)

Philadelphia

Did not participate: C/G Nick Cole (knee)
Full participation: TE Brent Celek (wrist), DE Brandon Graham (ankle), T Austin Howard (back), WR Jeremy Maclin (back), LB Ernie Sims (ankle)

Arizona Cardinals at San Diego Chargers

Arizona

Did not participate: WR Steve Breaston (knee), WR Early Doucet (groin)
Limited participation: G Alan Faneca (back), RB Chris Wells (knee)

San Diego

Out: LB Larry English (foot)
Did not participate: G Kris Dielman (illness), LB Shawne Merriman (calf), G Louis Vasquez (knee)
Limited participation: LB Brandon Siler (foot), S Darrell Stuckey (hamstring)
Full participation: LB Stephen Cooper (knee), RB Ryan Mathews (ankle)

Chicago Bears at New York Giants

Chicago

Did not participate: T Chris Williams (hamstring), S Major Wright (hamstring)
Limited participation: G Roberto Garza (knee), S Chris Harris (neck), DE Israel Idonije (foot)

NY Giants

Out: T Will Beatty (foot)
Did not participate: DT Rocky Bernard (back), LB Keith Bulluck (toe), WR Mario Manningham (concussion), C Shaun O'Hara (ankle/Achilles), KR Darius Reynaud (illness)
Limited participation: LB Phillip Dillard (hamstring)

Dolphins Sign WR Brooks Foster to Practice Squad

The Miami Dolphins signed free agent wide receiver Brooks Foster to the practice squad on Wednesday, reports Omar Kelly of the Sun-Sentinel.

Foster takes the spot vacated when undrafted rookie defensive end Rob Rose was signed to the 53-man roster.

The 6-1, 204-pound Foster was a fifth-round pick (160th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft out of North Carolina by the St. Louis Rams. Foster injured his ankle during the 2009 pre-season and was placed on injured reserve.

Waived by the Rams after two pre-season games last month, Foster was claimed by the New York Jets. After posting a pair of special teams tackles, the Jets waived Foster on September 4.

Jaguars WR Kassim Osgood Attacked on Monday Night

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Kassim Osgood was attacked while watching television on Monday night with a 19-year old woman in a Jacksonville home, Dan Scanlan of the Florida Times-Union reports.

According to the report, an armed man entered the second-floor game room, pistol-whipped Osgood and the woman, held the gun to the woman's head and quoted a threatening text message that University of Florida football player Chris Rainey said to his girlfriend.

The woman managed to flee, jumping to a floor below. When the attacker chased after her, Osgood jumped out a second-story window and fled to a neighbor's home to contact the authorities.

Before police arrived, the woman and attacker, identified as 20-year old Julian Armond Bartletto, exchanged gunfire. Both missed and Bartletto fled the scene.

Police arrested Bartletto at his residence, and he faces charges of aggravated battery, false imprisonment, armed robbery, burglary and violation of an injunction.

Osgood, who sustained bumps and bruises in the attack, declined to comment on Wednesday.

The 30-year old wide receiver signed a three-year contract with the Jaguars in March, and in three games, has a pair of receptions for 29 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown in the Jaguars' Week One win over the Denver Broncos.

Bills LB Chris Kelsay Confirms 4-Year Extension

Via Brian Galliford of BuffaloRumblings.com, Buffalo Bills linebacker Chris Kelsay has confirmed to WHAM in Rochester, New York that he has signed a four-year contract extension.

Mark Gaughan of the Buffalo News broke the news on Sunday that the Bills and Kelsay were close to an extension that was believed to be worth as much as $24 million.

The 30-year old Kelsay is earning $3.7 million in base salary in the final season of a four-year, $23 million contract extension signed in 2007.

A second-round pick (48th overall) in the 2003 NFL Draft out of Nebraska, the 6-4, 261-pound Kelsay started 88 of 110 games at defensive end between 2003 and 2009, totaling 313 tackles and 22 quarterback sacks.

The off-season arrival of defensive coordinator George Edwards and a 3-4 defense has moved Kelsay to outside linebacker. In three games this season, Kelsay ranks third on the team with 19, and has one hit on opposing quarterbacks.

Colts Re-Sign LB Tyjuan Hagler

The Indianapolis Colts have re-signed linebacker Tyjuan Hagler, Phillip Wilson of the Indianapolis Star reports.

A fifth-round pick out of the University of Cincinnati by the Indianapolis Colts in 2005, Hagler (6-0, 236) has started 17 games for the Indianapolis Colts over the last four seasons, totaling 114 tackles and a quarterback sack.

Hagler missed his rookie season with a sports hernia, and finished 2009 on injured reserve with a torn biceps.

Hagler went to training camp this year with the Seattle Seahawks, leading the team with 21 tackles and grabbing an interception.

The Colts' linebacker corps has been banged up, with Clint Session missing the last two weeks with a hamstring injury and his replacement, 2010 seventh-round pick Kavell Conner, expected to miss a few weeks after undergoing foot surgery on Tuesday.

To make room for Hagler, the Colts have released tight end/h-back Gijon Robinson.

Dolphins Waive LB Erik Walden

The Miami Dolphins have waived linebacker Erik Walden, reports Ben Volin of the Palm Beach Post.

Volin notes that Walden blew his assignment on a blocked punt during the Dolphins' 31-23 loss to the New York Jets last Sunday.

A 2008 sixth-round pick (167th overall) out of Middle Tennessee State by the Dallas Cowboys, Walden has 13 tackles in 19 games for the Dolphins over the last 2+ seasons. Walden also totaled 10 tackles in nine games with the Kansas City Chiefs during his rookie season.

Patriots Sign G Rich Ohrnberger to Active Roster

The New England Patriots have signed second-year guard Rich Ohrnberger off their practice squad, the team announced on Wednesday.

New England had an open roster spot after waiving offensive tackle Steve Maneri on Monday. Maneri cleared waivers and was re-signed to the practice squad, which also added offensive tackle Thomas Austin.

Ohrnberger was a fourth-round pick (123rd overall) out of Penn State by the Patriots in 2009, and was active for three games during his rookie season.

Austin (6-4, 310) is an undrafted rookie free agent out of Clemson who spent the pre-season with the Minnesota Vikings.

Steelers May Place QB Dennis Dixon on IR

Once Ben Roethlisberger returns from his four-game suspension, the Pittsburgh Steelers may place quarterback Dennis Dixon on season-ending injured reserve, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Dixon, who opened the season as the starting quarterback after Byron Leftwich went down with a sprained knee, had surgery to repair torn meniscus in his left knee last week and is expected to miss up to six weeks.

"They say from four to six weeks, but every time it's different," Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said. "We're hopeful he's going to get back to us quickly."

No official announcement is expected to be made until next week, but as I wrote last week, Dixon's injury timeline made him a candidate to land on injured reserve.

Panthers Sign OL Chris Morris

The 53rd spot on the Carolina Panthers' roster has been filled, as Darin Gantt of the Charlotte Observer reports the team has signed veteran free agent center/guard Chris Morris.

A seventh-round pick (214th overall) out of Michigan State by the Oakland Raiders in 2006, Morris (6-4, 305) started 11 of 47 games over the last four seasons, including a career-high 10 games in 2009.

Tendered at the "Original Round" level as a restricted free agent in the off-season, the Raiders released Morris as part of their final roster cuts on September 4.

Ravens Release DE Trevor Pryce

The Baltimore Ravens announced that they have terminated the contract of veteran defensive end Trevor Pryce, and re-signed veteran safety Ken Hamlin.

Pryce is three games into his 14th season of his NFL career, which began as a first-round pick (28th overall) out of Clemson by the Denver Broncos in 1997. During his career, Pryce has 90 quarterback sacks, posting double-digit totals on three occasions.(1999, 2000, 2006)

Pryce led the Ravens with 6.5 quarterback sacks in 2009.

The 35-year old defensive end took a $2.5 million paycut to remain with the Ravens, and has been active for all three of their games in 2010.

Hamlin signed with the Ravens in June, but was released last Wednesday when cornerback Cary Williams returned from a two-game suspension.

NFL News and Notes - September 29, 2010

Despite the signing of kicker John Carney, Garrett Hartley remains in the New Orleans Saints' plans, writes Nakia Hogan of The Times-Picayune.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers seventh-round defensive end/tight end Erik Lorig was re-signed to the active roster.

The Atlanta Falcons will be wearing their 1966 throwback jerseys against the 49ers on Sunday.

As good as the Carolina Panthers offensive line may be, it's not good enough to beat eight-man fronts, writes Darin Gantt of the Charlotte Observer.

Washington Redskins offensive lineman Kory Lichtensteiger is finally receiving an opportunity to play in the NFL.

The Philadelphia Eagles defense may be at a disadvantage when it faces Donovan McNabb on Sunday, writes Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News.

Former New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan says his former team needs leaders to emerge in the locker room.

Dallas Cowboys kicker David Buehler received some advice from Texans kicker Neil Rackers on Sunday.

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Steve Breaston had knee surgery on Tuesday morning and will miss at least two games.

Newly promoted San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Johnson received an endorsement from Vernon Davis.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is no longer the only difference-maker on the roster, writes Danny O'Neil of The Seattle Times.

The St. Louis Rams defense is giving up a lot of yards, but not a lot of points.

Green Bay Packers starting offensive tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher are showing signs of their ages, writes Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.

Minnesota Vikings cornerbacks Cedric Griffin and Chris Cook returning to action on Sunday gave the pass defense a boost.

Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith sent a message on Monday night that performance is what matters.

Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew is off to a good start in his second season.

The "Battle of Ohio" rivalry between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns isn't what it used to be, writes Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

One more loss and the Cleveland Browns focus will need to turn towards laying a foundation for 2011, writes Steve Doerschuk of the Canton Repository.

Running back Rashard Mendenhall is becoming a player the Pittsburgh Steelers can ill-afford to lose.

Edward Lee of the Baltimore Sun recaps The John Harbaugh Show, which did not discuss the availability of running back Ray Rice.

Buffalo Bills linebacker Paul Posluszny plans to return to the field on Sunday.

New England Patriots running back Danny Woodhead has always succeeded at what he does, writes Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald.

Woodhead is one of three former New York Jets running backs that are haunting general manager Mike Tannenbaum, writes Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.

The Miami Dolphins' "Wildcat" offensive package has become more predictable, writes Ethan Skolnick of the Sun-Sentinel.

Quarterback Trent Edwards was claimed off waivers by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Houston Texans signed veteran cornerback Karl Paymah.

Tennessee Titans cornerback Jason McCourty underwent surgery to repair his broken forearm.

Indianapolis Colts undrafted rookie offensive tackle Jeff Linkenbach filled in nicely at left tackle for Charlie Johnson on Sunday, writes Curt Cavin of the Indianapolis Star.

Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Tamba Hali is quietly racking up the quarterback sacks.

The Denver Broncos offense has been a mixed bag, writes Mike Klis of the Denver Post.

Oakland Raiders kicker Sebastien Janikowski discussed his miss on Sunday and the passing of George Blanda.

The San Diego Chargers called in some special teams reinforcements on Tuesday.

Today's NFL birthdays: Browns linebacker Eric Barton (33), Cowboys practice squad cornerback Bryan McCann (23), Packers fifth-round offensive tackle Marshall Newhouse (22), Seahawks practice squad quarterback Zac Robinson (24), Titans defensive tackle Tony Brown (30) and safety Chris Hope (30), free agent kicker Brandon Coutu (26), wide receivers Clarence Denmark (25) and Michael Ray Garvin (24), defensive tackle Atiyyah Ellison (29), and former NFL safety Michael Desormeaux (25).

Browns Sign RB Martell Mallett to Practice Squad

Free agent running back Martell Mallett has been signed to the Cleveland Browns practice squad.

Signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Mallett ran for 97 yards and a touchdown during the pre-season. Mallett added three receptions for 18 yards, returned one kick for 15 yards, and added a pair of special teams tackles before being waived on September 4.

Mallett spent the first three weeks of the season on the Eagles' practice squad before he was released along with safety Chip Vaughn last Tuesday. Their spots on the eight-man squad were filled by safety Jamar Adams and wide receiver Rod Harper.

The Browns have deleted cornerback DeAndre Wright from their practice squad.

Saints Add OT Jermey Parnell to Practice Squad

The New Orleans Saints have added offensive tackle Jermey Parnell to their practice squad on Tuesday.

Offensive lineman Jacob Bender has been released.

Parnell (6-6, 290) played just one season of football at Ole Miss, playing defensive end after four years on the basketball team. Signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2009, Parnell moved from defensive end to tight end to the offensive line, spending his rookie season on the Saints' practice squad, picking up a Super Bowl ring in the process.

The Saints waived Parnell on September 4 and he was claimed by the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins waived Parnell on Saturday to make room for offensive tackle Patrick Brown.

Saints Sign K John Carney

The New Orleans Saints have signed free agent kicker John Carney, Nakia Hogan of The Times-Picayune reports.

This will be the 46-year old Carney's 23rd season in the NFL, and his 8th with the Saints.

Carney has connected on 473 of 574 field goal attempts during his career, which has included stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Diego Chargers, St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New York Giants.

Carney was a Pro Bowler in 1994 and 2008, and ranks 3rd on the NFL's all-time scoring list with 2,044 points.

New Orleans brought Carney and Kris Brown in for tryouts after Garrett Hartley missed his third field goal attempt of the season, a 29-yard attempt in overtime of the Saints' 27-24 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.

The Saints are expected to keep both Hartley and Carney on the 53-man roster.

Texans Sign CB Karl Paymah

Josina Anderson of FOX-31 in Denver reports that free agent cornerback Karl Paymah has signed with the Houston Texans.

Paymah (6-0, 195) was a third-round pick (76th overall) out of Washington State by the Denver Broncos in 2005.

In four seasons with the Broncos, Paymah started 5 of 60 games, totaling 101 tackles and 3 interceptions. Paymah signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2009, starting two of 12 games, totaling 27 tackles and forcing a fumble on special teams.

Signed by the San Francisco 49ers earlier this off-season, Paymah was released as part of the team's final roster cuts on September 3.

The Texans will need to make a corresponding roster move to add Paymah.

Seahawks Stockpiling Former Packers Linemen

As first reported by the Green Bay Press-Gazette, the Seahawks confirmed the signing of offensive tackle Breno Giacomini off the Green Bay Packers' practice squad.

The Seahawks also announced that they have signed free agent guard Allen Barbre, and released offensive linemen Mansfield Wrotto and Mike Gibson.

Barbre was a fourth-round pick (119th overall) out of Missouri Southern State by the Packers in 2007, while Giacomini was chosen in the fifth-round by the Packers in 2008. The 6-4, 300-pound Barbre started seven games at right tackle for the Packers last season, but will likely play guard for the Seahawks.

Barbre and Giacomini reunite with guard Evan Dietrich-Smith, a former Packers offensive lineman who was claimed off waivers by the Seahawks earlier this month. Dietrich-Smith has been a gameday inactive in all three games this season.

Seahawks general manager John Schneider worked in the Packers' front office between 2002 and 2009.

Panthers Release DT Louis Leonard

The Carolina Panthers have released defensive tackle Louis Leonard, reports Steve Reed of the Gaston Gazette.

Originally signed by the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent out of Fresno State in 2007, the 6-4, 325-pound Leonard has 33 tackles and a quarterback sack during a 24-game NFL career with the St. Louis Rams (2007), Cleveland Browns (2007-08), and Panthers, who acquired Leonard from the Browns last September.

Leonard suffered a broken ankle in his second game with the Panthers, and was placed on injured reserve.

A restricted free agent this off-season, the Panthers tendered Leonard at the "Original Round" level, which was paying him a non-guaranteed base salary of $1.684 million this season.

Leonard had a pair of tackles against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, his second game of the 2010 season.

Chargers Sign LS Ethan Albright

The San Diego Chargers have signed veteran long-snapper Ethan Albright, the team announced on Tuesday.

After David Binn handled the snapping duties for the Chargers from 1994 through the first week of the 2010 season, Albright becomes the fourth snapper the Chargers have used this month. Binn was injured in the Chargers' Week 1 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, and was placed on injured reserve to make room for James Dearth, who was injured during practice and replaced by Ryan Neill.

Neill injured his leg covering a second quarter punt against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday and was placed on injured reserve.

Albright, 39, has snapped in 234 NFL games, including 144 between 2001 and 2009 with the Washington Redskins, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl following the 2007 season.

In addition to the long-snapper change, the Chargers signed veteran safety Quinton Teal and cornerback Dante Hughes, and waived running back Curtis Brinkley and linebacker James Holt was placed on injured reserve.

Hughes had been with the Chargers, but was waived when Brinkley was signed off the Chargers' practice squad on Saturday to improve the depth at the running back position for Sunday's game, which first-round running back Ryan Mathews missed with an ankle injury.

Cardinals WR Steve Breaston Has Knee Surgery

Mike Jurecki of XTRA Sports 910 reports that Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Steve Breaston underwent surgery to repair torn meniscus in one of his knees.

According to Jurecki, Breaston will miss the next couple of weeks. The Cardinals travel to the San Diego Chargers next week before hosting the New Orleans Saints. Arizona's bye week falls in Week 6.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that Breaston will be sidelined until the Cardinals' October 24th game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Elevated to a starting role with the off-season trade of Anquan Boldin, Breaston leads the Cardinals with 14 receptions for 183 yards this season.

A fifth-round pick out of Michigan in 2007, Breaston entered 2010 with 140 receptions for 1,810 yards and six touchdowns during his first three seasons in the league. Breaston started 15 games over the past two seasons, and topped 1,000 yards receiving (1,006) in 2008.

Breaston has also averaged 7.8 yards on 113 career punt returns, with one returned for a touchdown. Breaston has not been used in a return role this season.

With Breaston out, rookie wide receiver Stephen Williams will play an increased role in the Cardinals' passing attack.

Jaguars Claim QB Trent Edwards

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Jacksonville Jaguars have claimed quarterback Trent Edwards off waivers from the Buffalo Bills.

A 2007 third-round pick (92nd overall) out of Stanford, Edwards (6-4, 231) has started 32 of his 34 NFL games, completing 60.9% of his 878 pass attempts for 5,739 yards, with 25 touchdowns and 27 interceptions for a career passer rating of 76.8.

In two games for the Bills this season, Edwards completed 29-of-52 pass attempts for 241 yards with a touchdown and pair interceptions for a 58.3 passer rating.

By claiming Edwards, the Jaguars are on the hook for the remainder of Edwards' $1.65 million base salary, which amounts to $1.358 million for the balance of the season. The Jaguars will also need to make a corresponding roster move to add Edwards to the 53-man roster.

Seahawks to Sign WR Brandon Stokley

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Seattle Seahawks have reached agreement on a contract with veteran wide receiver Brandon Stokley.

The 34-year old Stokley has caught 307 passes for 4,319 yards and 34 touchdowns during an 11-year career with the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Denver Broncos, where he's played the last three seasons.

Denver placed Stokley on injured reserve with a groin injury on September 4, and waived him with an injury settlement on September 14.

Seahawks offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates was on the Broncos' coaching staff, as both quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, when Stokley signed in Denver in 2007. During those two seasons, Stokley started 11 of 28 games, and caught 89 passes for 1,173 yards and 8 touchdowns.

The Seahawks have five receivers on their 53-man roster, and would need to make a corresponding roster move before the signing becomes official, which will likely happen when the club returns to practice on Wednesday. Mortensen believes that the Seahawks will likely make a move with fullback Quinton Ganther.

Seattle has also signed offensive tackle Breno Giacomini off the Green Bay Packers practice squad, the Green Bay Press-Gazette reports.

The 6-7, 303-pound Giacomini is no stranger to Seahawks general manager John Schneider, who was part of the front office that selected him in the fifth-round of the 2008 NFL Draft out of Louisville. Giacomini has been active for one game in the NFL, and was earning an elevated salary from the Packers to keep him from signing with the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad.

Giacomini will be guaranteed over $80,000 in salary in 2010, and can earn up to $378,000 if he remains on the 53-man roster for the remainder of the season.

Chargers LB Larry English Undergoes Foot Surgery

San Diego Chargers linebacker Larry English will miss some time after undergoing foot surgery on Tuesday, reports Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Acee adds that the Chargers have re-signed veteran safety Quinton Teal, though no corresponding roster move is immediately known.

After allowing two kick returns for touchdowns on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, the Chargers are expected to shuffle up their special teams units this week. Teal posted 23 special teams tackles during his three seasons with the Carolina Panthers (2007-09), and had a pair of special teams tackles for the Chargers during the 2010 pre-season.

San Diego cut Teal, who spent the off-season on the Seahawks' roster, on September 4.

Giants Place S Michael Johnson on IR

New York Giants safety Mmichael Johnson has been placed on injured reserve, reports Zach Berman of The Star-Ledger.

Rookie cornerback Brian Jackson has been elevated from the practice squad to take Johnson's spot on the 53-man roster.

Johnson was a seventh-round pick (224th overall) out of Arizona in 2007. In 49 career games, including 35 starts, Johnson has been credited with 159 tackles, 2 quarterback sacks, 10 passes defensed, and 3 interceptions.

Johnson missed Sunday's 29-10 loss to the Tennessee Titans with a back injury.

Aaron Schobel Works Out For Texans

Free agent defensive end Aaron Schobel worked out for the Houston Texans, reports John McClain of the Houston Chronicle.

McClain adds that a signing is not imminent.

A former second-round pick out of TCU, Schobel had 78 career sacks over his nine-year career with the Buffalo Bills, including 10 sacks in 16 games last season. The 33-year old Schobel lives outside of Houston and played for Texans defensive line coach Bill Kollar during his stint with Buffalo.

Since being released by the Bills in August, Schobel has drawn interest from the New England Patriots, Seattle Seahawks, and Texans, but has publicly stated his intention to retire from professional football.

The Texans lost defensive ends Connor Barwin and Tim Bulman for the season in Week 1, and have signed veteran defensive ends Ryan Denney and Adewale Ogunleye. Thus far, neither player has filled the pass-rush void created by Barwin's injury the way a player like Schobel could.

Until he files his retirement papers, Schobel will continue to be on the Texans' radar screen.

Cowboys WR Dez Bryant Pays $55K Dinner Tab

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant wasn't aware of the rookie "hazing" ritual of carrying Roy Williams' shoulder pads early on during training camp. To make up for his transgression, Bryant took the offensive players out for dinner to a Dallas steakhouse on Monday night.

Williams decided to invite the defensive players, too, which meant Bryant's dinner tab reached nearly $55,000, Calvin Watkins of ESPNDallas.com reports.

Watkins adds that players were ordering bottles of wine to take home with them.

Bryant is earning the league minimum as a rookie, and the pre-tax sum of his three game checks is $56,471. However, Bryant did receive a $1.95 million signing bonus on July 23, and an additional $570,000 roster bonus on July 28.

NFL & NFLPA Issue Joint Statement on CBA Talks

The NFL and NFLPA issued a joint statement following talks towards a new collective bargaining agreement today in Washington, D.C.

From NFLPA Assistant Executive Director of External Affairs George Attalah's Twitter feed:

"Today’s bargaining session focused on several matters, including the proposed 18-2 season format, rookie wage scale and improvements 4 retired players. Both sides look forward to continuing the discussions and reaching a new collective bargaining agreement."

Raye Was Carrying Out Singletary's Wishes

One problem with responding to an 0-3 start by firing a coordinator is that the team, or at least that aspect of it, needs to quickly improve to avoid questions about other areas of the team.

Another problem is that individual might decide to give his/her side of the story to the local media, which is what recently fired San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye did on Tuesday.

Raye spoke to Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com about his firing, and claims he was just doing what Singletary hired him to do.

"I was carrying out the head coach's wishes," Raye said. "I was doing what I was brought here to do under his philosophy he (head coach Mike Singeltary) wanted installed. I tried as best I could to carry that out with the quarterbacking and the personnel that we had. I didn't come in and say, 'This is my offense, and I'm running this, and if you don't like it, you can get somebody else.' I was doing what was given me to do."

For a full transcript of Maiocco's interview with Raye, click the link above.

FOX Broadcast Captured Shaun Smith's Package Handling

After the last two weeks, Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Shaun Smith has been accused by opposing offensive linemen of grabbing at their genitals during the game.

Cleveland Browns center Alex Mack accused Smith of doing it after Week 2, and on Sunday, San Francisco 49ers rookie right tackle Anthony Davis also made the accusation.

A replay during the FOX broadcast on Sunday appears to have captured Smith grabbing at Davis' genitals.



Davis was flagged for unnecessary roughness after punching Smith, turning a 2nd-and-7 situation into a 2nd-and-22 for the 49ers, who trailed 14-3 at the time. The 49ers would punt two plays later.

While Mack didn't immediately retaliate on Smith, he was flagged for an unnecessary roughness penalty two plays later, for which he was fined $5,000 by the NFL.

Bills Sign QB Levi Brown

To fill the roster spot vacated when quarterback Trent Edwards was waived on Monday, the Buffalo Bills have re-signed quarterback Levi Brown to the 53-man roster.

A seventh-round pick (209th overall) out of Troy in April, Brown completed 15-of-30 pass attempts for 130 yards and a pair of interceptions during the pre-season.

The Bills waived Brown on September 4.

Brown began his college career at Richmond before transferring to Troy after the 2006 season. After red-shirting in 2007, Brown started the next two seasons, completing 62.8% of his 830 pass attempts for 6,284 yards, with 38 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Brown was named the Sun Belt Conference "Newcomer of the Year" in 2008, and last season won conference Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year honors. The 6-3, 229-pound Brown has a strong, accurate arm, and excellent mobility, but is considered to be a bit of a project coming out of a spread offense in college.

With the moves this week, it appears as though Ryan Fitzpatrick the likely starter for the remainder of the season, with Brian Brohm the top back-up and Brown the third "emergency" quarterback.

Titans CB Jason McCourty Underwent Surgery

Tennessee Titans cornerback Jason McCourty had his broken right forearm repaired surgically, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

McCourty, who picked up his first NFL interception in Sunday's win over the New York Giants, is expected to miss 3-4 weeks.

A sixth-round pick (203rd overall) out of Rutgers, McCourty (5-11, 188) has started in six of his 18 games in the NFL, totaling 30 tackles and the one interception. McCourty started three games in place of Cortland Finnegan during his rookie season, and beat out 2010 fourth-round cornerback Alterraun Verner for a starting job this summer.

Verner is expected to replace McCourty in the starting lineup.

Rams to Sign RB Chauncey Washington Off Jets Practice Squad

The St. Louis Rams will sign running back Chauncey Washington off the New York Jets practice squad, reports Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

A seventh-round pick out of USC by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2008, the 5-11, 222-pound Washington has nine yards on four carries, and one reception for 8 yards, in 8 NFL games with the Jaguars (2008) and Dallas Cowboys (2009).

Washington has added a pair of tackles on special teams, as well.

During the 2010 pre-season, Washington gained 75 yards on 20 carries and, to the delight of head coach Rex Ryan, forced a fumble on special teams.

Washington adds depth to the Rams' backfield, which may be without running back Steven Jackson (strained groin) when the Rams host the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. If Jackson can't play, Kenneth Darby and Keith Toston are expected to see more action.

Bills Willing to Listen to Offers For Marshawn Lynch

After months of stiff-arming interested teams, the Buffalo Bills are now willing to entertain offers for running back Marshawn Lynch, reports Jason Wilde of ESPN Milwaukee.

Wilde adds that the Green Bay Packers, who lost running back Ryan Grant for the season to an ankle injury, have contacted the Bills about acquiring Lynch, the 12th overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft out of Cal.

Lynch currently leads the Bills in rushing with 156 yards on 33 carries, but the arrival of C.J. Spiller is a clear sign that Lynch is not part of the team's long-term plans.

The 5-11, 215-pounder does have trade value, though, and the Bills have three weeks to get the most in return. The Packers, whose one-dimensional offense hurt them last night against the Chicago Bears, should be one of the teams with interest in Lynch.

Buccaneers Sign TE Erik Lorig Off Practice Squad

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed tight end Erik Lorig off their practice squad, reports Adam Caplan of FOXSports.com.

A seventh-round pick (253rd overall) out of Stanford as a defensive end, Lorig was on the team's 53-man roster at the beginning of the season. The Buccaneers released him when Aqib Talib's one-game suspension came to end, and re-signed him to the practice squad as a converted tight end.

Lorig began his college career as a tight end, catching three passes for 21 before switching to defensive end after his freshman season.

NFL News and Notes - September 28, 2010

Chicago Bears 20, Green Bay Packers 17

Bears kicker Robbie Gould delivered the game-winner from 19 yards out with four seconds remaining...Return specialist Devin Hester is back, and so too are the Bears...Bears quarterback Jay Cutler got the job done.

A pass-heavy offensive approach was a recipe for disaster for the Packers on Monday night...The Packers special teams units struggled mightily on Monday...The Packers set a franchise record with 18 penalties.

NFL News and Notes

The New England Patriots defense knows it must improve, writes Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Trent Edwards was released on Monday.

New York Jets wide receiver Braylon Edwards reached out to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano wants improvement from the team's special teams units.

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice has a bruised knee and his status for Sunday's game is unknown.

His teammates have built a foundation in the hole that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger dug with his three-game suspension.

Cleveland Browns head coach Eric Mangini won't remove cornerback Eric Wright from the starting lineup.

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis isn't concerned about Carson Palmer's performance the last two weeks.

The Indianapolis Colts are only concerned with the next game on the schedule, writes Phillip Wilson of the Indianapolis Star.

Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher says the team's run-pass ratio isn't a hidden message about Vince Young's status, reports Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.

The Jacksonville Jaguars shuffled their roster on Monday.

Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak called out the team's defense.

Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Charlie Weis had emergency gall bladder surgery on Monday.

Denver Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton passed for nearly 500 yards, but struggled on third down and in the red zone on Sunday.

San Diego Chargers guard Louis Vasquez will miss at least two weeks with a sprained MCL.

Oakland Raiders Hall of Fame quarterback/kicker George Blanda passed away on Monday at the age of 83.

Seattle Seahawks first-round offensive tackle Russell Okung is scheduled to practice on Wendesday.

The San Francisco 49ers fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye on Monday.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't giving up on rookie punt returner Andre Roberts, reports Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic.

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson's MRI revealed a strained groin, but when he'll play again remains unknown.

Free agent kicker Kris Brown will try out for the New Orleans Saints today, Mike Triplett of The Times-Picayune reports.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookies LeGarrette Blount and Arrelious Benn have earned increased opportunities for playing time.

A balanced approach has lead to the Atlanta Falcons' leading the NFL in time of possession, writes D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Carolina Panthers second-round quarterback Jimmy Clausen struggled to take the snaps from center Ryan Kalil.

The Washington Redskins are sticking with the 3-4 defense, reports Rick Maese of the Washington Post.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick's mechanics are improving, writes Les Bowen of the Philadelphia Daily News.

The New York Giants will induct 30 former players and coaches into their new "Ring of Honor".

Dallas Cowboys guard Kyle Kosier and tight end Jason Witten will use the bye week to rest knee injuries.

Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford will start throwing this week.

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has improved his ball security and patience.

Today's NFL birthdays: Browns wide receiver Jordan Norwood (24), Cowboys offensive tackle Alex Barron (28), Saints wide receiver Robert Meachem (26), 49ers guard David Baas (29), Rams defensive tackle Jermelle Cudjo (24), Titans practice squad cornerback Pete Ittersagen (25), Redskins practice squad linebacker Mike Balogun (27), free agent defensive ends Baraka Atkins (26) and Josh Savage (30), Hall of Fame wide receivers Steve Largent (55) and Charley Taylor (69).