Below are the injury and practice participation reports for Wednesday, November 30.
Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills
Tennessee
Did not participate: C Eugene Amano (hip), CB Tommie Campbell (shoulder), LB Colin McCarthy (knee), LB Barrett Ruud (groin), T David Stewart (calf)
Limited participation: TE Jared Cook (concussion), DE Jason Jones (knee), DE Derrick Morgan (ankle)
Buffalo
Did not participate: CB Leodis McKelvin (ribs), S George Wilson (neck)
Limited participation: K Rian Lindell (shoulder), WR Naaman Roosevelt (shoulder)
Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears
Kansas City
Limited participation: G Ryan Lilja (head), LB Demorrio Williams (groin)
Chicago
Out: QB Jay Cutler (thumb)
Did not participate: CB Charles Tillman (knee)
Limited participation: CB Zackary Bowman (groin), CB D.J. Moore (ankle)
Atlanta Falcons at Houston Texans
Atlanta
Did not participate: DE John Abraham (not injury related), TE Tony Gonzalez (not injury related), CB Brent Grimes (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (toe), WR Julio Jones (hamstring), C Todd McClure (not injury related), LB Stephen Nicholas (quadriceps), RB Michael Turner (groin), DT Vance Walker (groin)
Limited participation: T Sam Baker (back)
Full participation: CB Dunta Robinson (neck)
Houston
Did not participate: DT Tim Bulman (calf), LB Brian Cushing (ribs), FB Lawrence Vickers (hamstring)
Limited participation: LB Mister Alexander (shoulder), DT Shaun Cody (toe, ankle), LB Tim Dobbins (shoulder), TE Garrett Graham (hamstring), WR Andre Johnson (knee), CB Jonathan Joseph (hip), S Glover Quin (elbow), DE Antonio Smith (shoulder, back), G Wade Smith (ankle)
Full participation: CB Jason Allen (thumb), G Mike Brisiel (ankle), TE Owen Daniels (knee), TE Joel Dreessen (neck), S Danieal Manning (ankle)
Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins
Oakland
Did not participate: QB Jason Campbell (collarbone), WR Jacoby Ford (foot), K Sebastian Janikowski (left hamstring), RB Taiwan Jones (hamstring), LB Rolando McClain (ankle), RB Darren McFadden (foot), WR Denarius Moore (foot), DE Jarvis Moss (hamstring), DT Richard Seymour (knee)
Limited participation: DE Lamarr Houston (knee), S Michael Huff (ankle), DT Tommy Kelly (toe), S Michael Mitchell (ankle), DE Trevor Scott (shoulder), LB Kamerion Wimbley (hamstring)
Full participation: CB Chris Johnson (hamstring, groin)
Miami
Did not participate: G Vernon Carey (ankle)
Limited participation: S Yeremiah Bell (foot), K Dan Carpenter (right groin)
Denver Broncos at Minnesota Vikings
Denver
Did not participate: RB Willis McGahee (illness), LB Von Miller (thumb), WR Eddie Royal (toe)
Limited participation: S David Bruton (Achilles), TE Daniel Fells (head)
Full participation: T Ryan Clady (knee)
Minnesota
Out: CB Chris Cook (not injury related)
Did not participate: LB E.J. Henderson (shoulder), RB Adrian Peterson (ankle)
Limited participation: CB Asher Allen (shoulder), G Anthony Herrera (knee), TE Kyle Rudolph (quadriceps)
Full participation: LB Erin Henderson (hamstring), S Jamarca Sanford (shoulder), TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring)
Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots
Indianapolis
Out: TE Dallas Clark (fibula), QB Peyton Manning (neck)
Did not participate: G Ryan Diem (knee), TE Brody Eldridge (hand), DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), WR Anthony Gonzalez (groin), TE Ryan Mahaffey (concussion), DT Drake Nevis (back), C Jeff Saturday (knee)
Full participation: G Joe Reitz (knee)
New England
Did not participate: T Sebastian Vollmer (back, foot)
Limited participation: S Patrick Chung (foot), C Dan Connolly (groin), WR Julian Edelman (back), LB Dane Fletcher (thumb), LB Gary Guyton (shoulder), S James Ihedigbo (shoulder), T Matt Light (ankle), CB Devin McCourty (shoulder), CB Antwaun Molden (concussion), WR Chad Ochocinco (hamstring), WR Taylor Price (hamstring), KR Matt Slater (shoulder), LB Brandon Spikes (knee), C Ryan Wendell (calf)
Full participation: G Brian Waters (knee)
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Cincinnati
Did not participate: RB Cedric Benson (foot), CB Nate Clements (not injury related), S Chris Crocker (biceps), DE Carlos Dunlap (hamstring), CB Brandon Ghee (groin), LB Dontay Moch (not injury related), DT Domata Peko (foot), WR Jerome Simpson (knee)
Limited participation: TE Donald Lee (foot), DT Pat Sims (ankle)
Pittsburgh
Did not participate: LB Chris Carter (hamstring), S Troy Polamalu (head), C Maurkice Pouncey (illness)
Limited participation: WR Arnaz Battle (hamstring), LB Larry Foote (hamstring)
Full participation: LB Stevenson Sylvester (calf), LB LaMarr Woodley (hamstring)
Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Carolina
Did not participate: LB Jason Phillips (calf), WR Kealoha Pilares (quadriceps)
Limited participation: LB Omar Gaither (knee)
Tampa Bay
Did not participate: DE Michael Bennett (groin), DE Adrian Clayborn (back), LB Adam Hayward (foot), DT Brian Price (ankle), LB Dekoda Watson (groin), TE Kellen Winslow (not injury related)
Limited participation: QB Josh Freeman (right shoulder)
Full participation: DE Albert Haynesworth (knee), S Tanard Jackson (hamstring)
New York Jets at Washington Redskins
NY Jets
Did not participate: DE Mike DeVito (knee)
Limited participation: OL Vladimir Ducasse (knee)
Full participation: DL Marcus Dixon (shoulder), RB Shonn Greene (ribs), WR Jeremy Kerley (knee), C Nick Mangold (ankle), LB Calvin Pace (groin), S Brodney Pool (knee), G Matt Slauson (knee), RB LaDainian Tomlinson (knee)
Washington
Did not participate: DE Stephen Bowen (knee), LB London Fletcher (ankle), S LaRon Landry (groin), RB Darrel Young (head)
Limited participation: T Jammal Brown (hip), LB Brian Orakpo (ankle), WR Niles Paul (toe)
Full participation: S DeJon Gomes (knee), QB Rex Grossman (left shoulder), G Maurice Hurt (knee), WR Donte' Stallworth (foot)
Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns
Baltimore
Did not participate: LB Ray Lewis (foot)
Limited participation: CB Chris Carr (back)
Full participation: RB Anthony Allen (thigh), LB Dannell Ellerbe (thigh), DT Arthur Jones (head)
Cleveland
Did not participate: CB Mike Adams (shoulder), RB Montario Hardesty (calf), LB Quinton Spears (hamstring), S T.J. Ward (foot, finger)
Limited participation: LB Kaluka Maiava (knee), DE Jayme Mitchell (ankle), T Tony Pashos (ankle), CB Dimitri Patterson (ankle)
Full participation: RB Peyton Hillis (hamstring), FB Owen Marecic (head), QB Colt McCoy (right elbow), DL Scott Paxson (shin)
Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals
Dallas
Did not participate: WR Miles Austin (hamstring), DT Josh Brent (knee), FB Tony Fiammetta (illness), QB Jon Kitna (back), G Kyle Kosier (foot), RB Phillip Tanner (hamstring)
Limited participation: LB Bruce Carter (knee), CB Mike Jenkins (hamstring), S Gerald Sensabaugh (foot)
Full participation: LB Sean Lee (wrist), P Mat McBriar (left foot)
Arizona
Did not participate: LB Joey Porter (knee), S Kerry Rhodes (foot)
Limited participation: CB Michael Adams (hamstring), TE Todd Heap (hamstring), RB Beanie Wells (knee)
Full participation: TE Rob Housler (groin), QB Kevin Kolb (toe), RB LaRod Stephens-Howling (shoulder)
Green Bay Packers at New York Giants
Green Bay
Out: T Chad Clifton (hamstring, back), G Josh Sitton (knee)
Did not participate: LB Desmond Bishop (calf), LB A.J. Hawk (calf)
Full participation: RB James Starks (knee, ankle)
NY Giants
Did not participate: LB Michael Boley (hamstring), RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot), LB Mark Herzlich (ankle), WR Mario Manningham (knee), WR Hakeem Nicks (ribs, concussion), S Antrel Rolle (back), DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle, knee)
Limited participation: WR Victor Cruz (hip), S Derrick Martin (hamstring), DE Justin Tuck (ankle)
St. Louis Rams at San Francisco 49ers
St. Louis
Did not participate: DT Justin Bannan (shoulder), LB Josh Hull (hamstring), P Donnie Jones (not injury related), T Mark LeVoir (pectoral), S Darian Stewart (head)
Limited participation: QB Sam Bradford (ankle), LB Chris Chamberlain (hamstring), WR Dominique Curry (shoulder), CB Justin King (ankle), DE Chris Long (ankle), RB Brit Miller (hamstring)
San Francisco
Did not participate: WR Braylon Edwards (knee)
Limited participation: RB Frank Gore (ankle), FB Bruce Miller (concussion), G Adam Snyder (hamstring)
Full participation: CB Chris Culliver (shoulder), T Anthony Davis (ankle)
Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints
Detroit
Did not participate: S Louis Delmas (knee), LB Doug Hogue (illness), CB Chris Houston (knee), DE Lawrence Jackson (thigh), RB Kevin Smith (ankle)
Limited participation: CB Brandon McDonald (thigh), DE Willie Young (ankle)
Full participation: S Chris Harris (ankle), WR Calvin Johnson (ankle), WR Maurice Stovall (shoulder)
New Orleans
Did not participate: DE Turk McBride (ankle)
Limited participation: CB Jabari Greer (knee), LB Jonathan Vilma (knee)
Full participation: DT Tom Johnson (elbow)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Jaguars Shuffle Offensive Coaching Staff
In the wake of the firing of head coach Jack Del Rio, the Jacksonville Jaguars have also fired wide receivers coach Johnny Cox, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Cox's firing occurs on the same day the club waived wide receiver Jason Hill, a veteran they re-signed to a two-year, $3.5 million contract in March and who ranked second on the team with 25 receptions for 367 yards with a team-leading three touchdown receptions.
Cox was in his third season with the Jaguars and his first season as a position coach.
Schefter adds that current quarterbacks coach Mike Sheppard will coach the wide receivers with offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter assuming quarterback coaching duties. Sheppard coached wide receivers with the Cincinnati Bengals (2007-10) and Cleveland Browns (1994-95).
The Jaguars rank 32nd in the NFL in total offense, averaging 250 yards per game, and 32nd in scoring offense, averaging 12.5 point per game. The Jaguars also rank 32nd in passing yards per game and passing yards per play.
Cox's firing occurs on the same day the club waived wide receiver Jason Hill, a veteran they re-signed to a two-year, $3.5 million contract in March and who ranked second on the team with 25 receptions for 367 yards with a team-leading three touchdown receptions.
Cox was in his third season with the Jaguars and his first season as a position coach.
Schefter adds that current quarterbacks coach Mike Sheppard will coach the wide receivers with offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter assuming quarterback coaching duties. Sheppard coached wide receivers with the Cincinnati Bengals (2007-10) and Cleveland Browns (1994-95).
The Jaguars rank 32nd in the NFL in total offense, averaging 250 yards per game, and 32nd in scoring offense, averaging 12.5 point per game. The Jaguars also rank 32nd in passing yards per game and passing yards per play.
Eagles-Seahawks Injury Report (Wednesday)
The Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks have submitted their final injury reports in advance of tomorrow night's game at CenturyLink Field.
Philadelphia
Out: T King Dunlap (concussion), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Questionable: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), RB LeSean McCoy (toe)
Probable: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb)
Seattle
Out: CB Byron Maxwell (illness)
Questionable: LB David Hawthorne (knee), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Probable: DT Alan Branch (ankle), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral)
Philadelphia
Out: T King Dunlap (concussion), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Questionable: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), RB LeSean McCoy (toe)
Probable: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb)
Seattle
Out: CB Byron Maxwell (illness)
Questionable: LB David Hawthorne (knee), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Probable: DT Alan Branch (ankle), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral)
Chargers To Place T Marcus McNeill On IR; Claim Jared Gaither Off Waivers
The San Diego Chargers will place offensive tackle Marcus McNeill on injured reserve after claiming offensive tackle Jared Gaither off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs, Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.
McNeill has missed the last two games after injuring his neck in a loss to the Oakland Raiders on November 10. Neck injuries have been an issue for McNeill, who was diagnosed with spinal stenosis before he entered the NFL and underwent surgery on his neck after missing a pair of games in 2008.
Gaither spent his first four seasons in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, who selected the 6-foot-9, 340-pound left tackle in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Supplemental Draft. Gaither started 28 games over his first three seasons in the league before missing 2010 with a back injury and signing with the Chiefs as a free agent in August.
Gaither appeared in 10 games for the Chiefs in a reserve role, but committed a costly false start penalty on the final drive of Sunday night's 13-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and found himself on the waiver wire.
By claiming Gaither, the Chargers are on the hook for the $201,471 that remain on his 2011 base salary.
McNeill has missed the last two games after injuring his neck in a loss to the Oakland Raiders on November 10. Neck injuries have been an issue for McNeill, who was diagnosed with spinal stenosis before he entered the NFL and underwent surgery on his neck after missing a pair of games in 2008.
Gaither spent his first four seasons in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens, who selected the 6-foot-9, 340-pound left tackle in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Supplemental Draft. Gaither started 28 games over his first three seasons in the league before missing 2010 with a back injury and signing with the Chiefs as a free agent in August.
Gaither appeared in 10 games for the Chiefs in a reserve role, but committed a costly false start penalty on the final drive of Sunday night's 13-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and found himself on the waiver wire.
By claiming Gaither, the Chargers are on the hook for the $201,471 that remain on his 2011 base salary.
Jaguars Waive WR Jason Hill; Place S Courtney Greene On Injured Reserve
The Jacksonville Jaguars announced that they have waived wide receiver Jason Hill and placed safety Courtney Greene on injured reserve.
To replace Hill and Greene, the Jaguars have promoted running back DuJuan Harris from the practice squad and signed free agent cornerback Morgan Trent.
A 2007 third-round pick out of Washington State by the San Francisco 49ers, Hill joined the Jaguars in 2010 and caught 36 passes for 615 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games, including 11 starts. Re-signed to a two-year, $3.5 million contract in March, Hill started 10 games this season and was second on the Jaguars with 25 receptions for 367 yards and had a team-high three touchdowns.
Greene was a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Rutgers by the Seattle Seahawks who has been with the Jaguars since Week 3 of the 2009 season. In 30 games over the last three seasons, Greene has 93 tackles and an interception.
Harris is an undrafted rookie from Troy who led the team in rushing during the preseason and has been on the practice squad since Week 1.
Trent was a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Michigan by the Cincinnati Bengals who had 60 tackles and an interception in 30 games before he was released earlier this month. Since his release, Trent has had workouts with the Indianapolis Colts, where he appeared in one game against the Jaguars.
Trent also had workouts with the Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, Atlanta Falcons and visited the Jaguars on Monday.
To replace Hill and Greene, the Jaguars have promoted running back DuJuan Harris from the practice squad and signed free agent cornerback Morgan Trent.
A 2007 third-round pick out of Washington State by the San Francisco 49ers, Hill joined the Jaguars in 2010 and caught 36 passes for 615 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games, including 11 starts. Re-signed to a two-year, $3.5 million contract in March, Hill started 10 games this season and was second on the Jaguars with 25 receptions for 367 yards and had a team-high three touchdowns.
Greene was a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Rutgers by the Seattle Seahawks who has been with the Jaguars since Week 3 of the 2009 season. In 30 games over the last three seasons, Greene has 93 tackles and an interception.
Harris is an undrafted rookie from Troy who led the team in rushing during the preseason and has been on the practice squad since Week 1.
Trent was a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Michigan by the Cincinnati Bengals who had 60 tackles and an interception in 30 games before he was released earlier this month. Since his release, Trent has had workouts with the Indianapolis Colts, where he appeared in one game against the Jaguars.
Trent also had workouts with the Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, Atlanta Falcons and visited the Jaguars on Monday.
Giants Place T Will Beatty On Injured Reserve
The New York Giants announced that they have placed left tackle Will Beatty on season-ending injured reserve.
Beatty underwent surgery this week to repair a detached retina that was expected to keep him out for at least the next month. After starting just six of 24 games his first two seasons in the league, the 2009 second-round pick out of UCONN had replaced David Diehl as the starting left tackle this season.
With Beatty out, Diehl is moving back to left tackle.
Replacing Beatty on the 53-man roster is veteran linebacker Chase Blackburn, who recorded 210 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and two interceptions in 93 games for the Giants from 2005-10.
The Giants also signed wide receiver/return specialist Isaiah Stanback to the practice squad, releasing quarterback Ryan Perrilloux to make room. Stanback had worked out for the Giants on October 17.
Beatty underwent surgery this week to repair a detached retina that was expected to keep him out for at least the next month. After starting just six of 24 games his first two seasons in the league, the 2009 second-round pick out of UCONN had replaced David Diehl as the starting left tackle this season.
With Beatty out, Diehl is moving back to left tackle.
Replacing Beatty on the 53-man roster is veteran linebacker Chase Blackburn, who recorded 210 tackles, 1.5 quarterback sacks and two interceptions in 93 games for the Giants from 2005-10.
The Giants also signed wide receiver/return specialist Isaiah Stanback to the practice squad, releasing quarterback Ryan Perrilloux to make room. Stanback had worked out for the Giants on October 17.
Seahawks To Place WR Sidney Rice On Injured Reserve
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice will be placed on injured reserve, Tim Booth of the Associated Press reports.
Rookie linebacker Michael Morgan will be added from the practice squad to replace Rice on the 53-man roster. Third-year wide receiver Deon Butler, who opened the season on the PUP list, is expected to be active for the first time this season.
Rice suffered a concussion, his second in two weeks, during Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Washington Redskins, the latest in a series of injuries that have hindered the 2009 Pro Bowler during his first season with the Seahawks. Rice missed the first two games of the season with a shoulder injury (torn labrum) that could require surgery, and appeared on the team's injury report with foot and knee issues in the second half of the season.
No stranger to injury. While with the Minnesota Vikings, Rice opened the 2010 season on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing hip surgery last August. Rice returned for the final seven weeks of the season, catching 17 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Rice signed a five-year, $41 million contract with the Seahawks in July that included $18.5 million in guaranteed money. That guarantee consists of a $6 million signing bonus, fully guaranteed base salaries of $2 million in 2011 and $7 million in 2012,with a $3.5 million injury-only guarantee on his $8.5 million base salary in 2013.
In nine games this season, Rice caught 32 passes for 484 yards and two touchdowns.
Rookie linebacker Michael Morgan will be added from the practice squad to replace Rice on the 53-man roster. Third-year wide receiver Deon Butler, who opened the season on the PUP list, is expected to be active for the first time this season.
Rice suffered a concussion, his second in two weeks, during Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Washington Redskins, the latest in a series of injuries that have hindered the 2009 Pro Bowler during his first season with the Seahawks. Rice missed the first two games of the season with a shoulder injury (torn labrum) that could require surgery, and appeared on the team's injury report with foot and knee issues in the second half of the season.
No stranger to injury. While with the Minnesota Vikings, Rice opened the 2010 season on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing hip surgery last August. Rice returned for the final seven weeks of the season, catching 17 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns in six games.
Rice signed a five-year, $41 million contract with the Seahawks in July that included $18.5 million in guaranteed money. That guarantee consists of a $6 million signing bonus, fully guaranteed base salaries of $2 million in 2011 and $7 million in 2012,with a $3.5 million injury-only guarantee on his $8.5 million base salary in 2013.
In nine games this season, Rice caught 32 passes for 484 yards and two touchdowns.
Dolphins Sign DT Ryan Baker, G Ray Feinga
The Miami Dolphins have announced the signings of defensive tackle Ryan Baker and offensive guard Ray Feinga.
Originally signed by the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent out of Purdue, Baker has seven tackles and a half a quarterback sack in 16 games with the Dolphins over the last three seasons. Baker appeared in two games earlier this season before he was released and hit the workout circuit. Baker worked out for the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but was not signed.
Feinga was originally signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent out of BYU in 2009. The 6-foot-4, 337-pound guard has been with the Dolphins on an off-and-on basis the last three seasons, appearing in two games in 2010 and spending most of this season on the practice squad.
Miami had cleared room for Baker and Feinga on Tuesday by waiving kicker Shayne Graham and defensive end Igor Olshansky, who was waived with a calf injury. The release of Graham is a sign that Pro Bowl kicker Dan Carpenter is healthy and ready to resume his kicking duties after missing two weeks with a right groin injury.
Originally signed by the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent out of Purdue, Baker has seven tackles and a half a quarterback sack in 16 games with the Dolphins over the last three seasons. Baker appeared in two games earlier this season before he was released and hit the workout circuit. Baker worked out for the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but was not signed.
Feinga was originally signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent out of BYU in 2009. The 6-foot-4, 337-pound guard has been with the Dolphins on an off-and-on basis the last three seasons, appearing in two games in 2010 and spending most of this season on the practice squad.
Miami had cleared room for Baker and Feinga on Tuesday by waiving kicker Shayne Graham and defensive end Igor Olshansky, who was waived with a calf injury. The release of Graham is a sign that Pro Bowl kicker Dan Carpenter is healthy and ready to resume his kicking duties after missing two weeks with a right groin injury.
Titans RB Chris Johnson Named AFC Offensive Player of the Week
Tennessee Titans running back Chris Johnson has been named the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week, the team announced on Wednesday.
Johnson ran for a season-high 190 yards in the Titans' 23-17 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. After a slow start to the season, Johnson has topped 100 yards in two of the last three weeks and has 699 yards and two touchdowns on the season.
A three-time Pro Bowler and 2009 Offensive Player of the Year, Johnson has now been named the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week three times during his career.
Johnson ran for a season-high 190 yards in the Titans' 23-17 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. After a slow start to the season, Johnson has topped 100 yards in two of the last three weeks and has 699 yards and two touchdowns on the season.
A three-time Pro Bowler and 2009 Offensive Player of the Year, Johnson has now been named the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week three times during his career.
Lions Sign DE Keyunta Dawson
To fill the roster spot vacated by the two-game suspension for defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, the Detroit Lions have signed veteran defensive lineman Keyunta Dawson, Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com reports.
A seventh-round pick out of Texas Tech by the Indianapolis Colts in 2007, Dawson has 113 tackles and a quarterback sack in 58 games over the last four seasons. Dawson started all 14 games he was active in 2008. In six career playoff games, two of which he started, Dawson has 11 tackles.
Dawson had five tackles in four preseason games for the Lions, but was released in September. Since his release, Dawson has had workouts with the Tennessee Titans, Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears.
Recent concern over defensive end Lawrence Jackson's thigh injury prompted the Lions to bring Dawson in for a workout last Wednesday.
A seventh-round pick out of Texas Tech by the Indianapolis Colts in 2007, Dawson has 113 tackles and a quarterback sack in 58 games over the last four seasons. Dawson started all 14 games he was active in 2008. In six career playoff games, two of which he started, Dawson has 11 tackles.
Dawson had five tackles in four preseason games for the Lions, but was released in September. Since his release, Dawson has had workouts with the Tennessee Titans, Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears.
Recent concern over defensive end Lawrence Jackson's thigh injury prompted the Lions to bring Dawson in for a workout last Wednesday.
Redskins CB DeAngelo Hall Named NFC Defensive Player of the Week
Washington Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall has been named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week, Rich Tandler of CSN Washington reports.
Hall had five tackles and six passes defensed, including a game-clinching interception, in the Redskins' 23-17 win over the Seattle Seahawks last Sunday. On the season, Hall has 69 tackles, two interceptions and 11 passes defensed.
This is the second "Defensive Player of the Week" award for the Redskins of the season, with outside linebacker Brian Orakpo taking home the honors in Week 4. Last season, Hall won the award following a four-interception performance against the Chicago Bears.
Hall had five tackles and six passes defensed, including a game-clinching interception, in the Redskins' 23-17 win over the Seattle Seahawks last Sunday. On the season, Hall has 69 tackles, two interceptions and 11 passes defensed.
This is the second "Defensive Player of the Week" award for the Redskins of the season, with outside linebacker Brian Orakpo taking home the honors in Week 4. Last season, Hall won the award following a four-interception performance against the Chicago Bears.
Bills Place NT Torell Troup On Injured Reserve
The Buffalo Bills announced that nose tackle Torell Troup has been placed on injured reserve
A 2010 second-round pick out of Central Florida, Troup started two of 15 games as a rookie, totaling 23 tackles. Slowed earlier this season by a back injury, Troup appeared in just six games and recording eight tackles. Troup's back injury flared up on Sunday, keeping him out of the team's 28-24 loss to the New York Jets.
Replacing Troup on the active roster is practice squad defensive lineman Lionel Dotson, who has seven tackles in five career games with the Miami Dolphins from 2008-10.
The Bills have added rookie linebacker Robert Eddins to the practice squad to replace Dotson.
A 2010 second-round pick out of Central Florida, Troup started two of 15 games as a rookie, totaling 23 tackles. Slowed earlier this season by a back injury, Troup appeared in just six games and recording eight tackles. Troup's back injury flared up on Sunday, keeping him out of the team's 28-24 loss to the New York Jets.
Replacing Troup on the active roster is practice squad defensive lineman Lionel Dotson, who has seven tackles in five career games with the Miami Dolphins from 2008-10.
The Bills have added rookie linebacker Robert Eddins to the practice squad to replace Dotson.
Colts Sign S Jermale Hines Off Panthers Practice Squad
The Indianapolis Colts have signed rookie safety Jermale Hines off the Carolina Panthers' practice squad, Colts owner Jim Irsay tweeted.
This will be Hines' second stint with the Colts, spending a week with the club in early October.
A 2011 fifth-round by the St. Louis Rams out of Ohio State, Hines made the team's 53-man roster, but did not appear in a game before he was waived and claimed by the Colts in Week 4. The Colts quickly waived Hines, who was claimed by the Carolina Panthers. In five games with the Panthers, Hines had three tackles, including two on special teams, before he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad in Week 11.
Signing off a practice squad means Hines is guaranteed three game checks from the Colts, which amounts to $66,176. Hines was earning $5,700 per week in non-guaranteed salary on the Panthers' practice squad.
This will be Hines' second stint with the Colts, spending a week with the club in early October.
A 2011 fifth-round by the St. Louis Rams out of Ohio State, Hines made the team's 53-man roster, but did not appear in a game before he was waived and claimed by the Colts in Week 4. The Colts quickly waived Hines, who was claimed by the Carolina Panthers. In five games with the Panthers, Hines had three tackles, including two on special teams, before he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad in Week 11.
Signing off a practice squad means Hines is guaranteed three game checks from the Colts, which amounts to $66,176. Hines was earning $5,700 per week in non-guaranteed salary on the Panthers' practice squad.
49ers, Packers Can Clinch Divisions This Weekend
The San Francisco 49ers could have wrapped up the NFC West last week, but their loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving night kept the faint hopes of the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals alive for another week.
San Francisco clinches the NFC West with a win or tie over the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, or if the Seahawks and Cardinals lose or tie this weekend. The Seahawks host the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night, while the Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys.
The Green Bay Packers can clinch a playoff spot with a win or a.) a tie and a Chicago Bears loss or tie OR a loss by either the Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions or a New Orleans Saints loss and a tie by the Falcons.
To clinch the NFC North, the Packers need a win and a Lions loss or tie OR a tie, a Bears loss or tie and a Lions loss OR if the Bears and Lions lose this weekend. The Bears host the Kansas City Chiefs and the Lions visit the Saints on Sunday night football.
San Francisco clinches the NFC West with a win or tie over the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, or if the Seahawks and Cardinals lose or tie this weekend. The Seahawks host the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night, while the Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys.
The Green Bay Packers can clinch a playoff spot with a win or a.) a tie and a Chicago Bears loss or tie OR a loss by either the Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions or a New Orleans Saints loss and a tie by the Falcons.
To clinch the NFC North, the Packers need a win and a Lions loss or tie OR a tie, a Bears loss or tie and a Lions loss OR if the Bears and Lions lose this weekend. The Bears host the Kansas City Chiefs and the Lions visit the Saints on Sunday night football.
NFL News and Notes - November 30, 2011
Coming off his best performance as a member of the Buffalo Bills, wide receiver Brad Smith has earned a starting role, Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News reports.
New England Patriots swiss army knife Julian Edelman has a fan in Troy Brown.
New York Jets safety Jim Leonhard is disappointed with the pregame boos for quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Matt Moore is silencing his critics.
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh came to the defense of offensive coordinator Cam Cameron.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic that linebacker LaMarr Woodley will be available on Sunday.
After two bad snaps contributed to two losses in a span of three weeks, the Cleveland Browns released long-snapper Ryan Pontbriand on Tuesday.
On the "Reserve/Non-Football Injury" list to start the season, Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Keith Rivers will not be added to the active roster.
The housecleaning for the Indianapolis Colts has begun, writes Phil Richards of the Indianapolis Star.
John Glennon of The Tennessean previews Sunday's Tennessee Titans game against the Bills.
Illinois businessman Shahid Khan has entered an agreement to purchase 100 percent of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Free agent quarterback Jake Delhomme is expected to be a good fit for the Houston Texans, head coach Gary Kubiak says.
Communication breakdowns are plaguing the Kansas City Chiefs, writes Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star.
Consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is helping the Denver Broncos win, writes Jeff Legwold of The Denver Post.
Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer is showing off his big arm.
It won't happen mid-season, but barring a miraculous turnaround, the San Diego Chargers will part ways with head coach Norv Turner.
Young players on the Arizona Cardinals are showing signs of improvement, writes Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore's role as a receiver has declined this season, writes Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice will not play against the Eagles on Thursday night.
Booing fans of the St. Louis Rams are not affecting head coach Steve Spagnuolo, but has frustrated the players, writes Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Green Bay Packers guard T.J. Lang's improved play can be attributed to an all-business approach.
The Minnesota Vikings shuffled their roster on Tuesday, placing four players on injured reserve.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie is hoping for a short learning curve.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is appealing his two-game suspension.
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle believes the team can right the ship and make a playoff run.
Philadelphia Eagles coaches Jim Washburn and Marty Mornhinweg have resolved their sideline dispute.
The Washington Redskins have added rookie cornerback Brandyn Thompson to the active roster.
Questions about the Carolina Panthers' running game have faded over the last nine games, writes Ron Green of the Charlotte Observer.
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes' knee injury could lead to shuffling in the secondary for this Sunday's game against the Texans.
Setting NFL records is fine with New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, as long as the team is winning.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman cut his already sprained thumb at a shooting range last month.
Today's NFL birthdays: Bills nose tackle Torell Troup (23) and second-round cornerback Aaron Williams (22), Bears practice squad wide receiver Max Komar (24), Bengals cornerback Kelly Jennings (29), Colts cornerback Terrence Johnson (22), Jaguars defensive end Aaron Kampman (32) and practice squad defensive end Marc Schiechl (24), Eagles safety Nate Allen (24), Chargers defensive tackle Antonio Garay (32), 49ers rookie defensive tackle DeMarcus Dobbs (24), free agent tight end Richard Angulo (31), guard Stanley Daniels (27), defensive end Jeremy Jarmon (24), and wide receiver Antonio Robinson (26).
The late Hall of Famer Link Lyman was born 113 years ago today.
Former NFL offensive tackle James Brown (41), cornerback Larry Brown (42), quarterback Cotton Davidson (80), safety Robert Griffith (41), running backs Shawn Bryson (35) and Bo Jackson (49), wide receiver Sam McCullum (59), and linebacker Mike Walter (51).
New England Patriots swiss army knife Julian Edelman has a fan in Troy Brown.
New York Jets safety Jim Leonhard is disappointed with the pregame boos for quarterback Mark Sanchez.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Matt Moore is silencing his critics.
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh came to the defense of offensive coordinator Cam Cameron.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic that linebacker LaMarr Woodley will be available on Sunday.
After two bad snaps contributed to two losses in a span of three weeks, the Cleveland Browns released long-snapper Ryan Pontbriand on Tuesday.
On the "Reserve/Non-Football Injury" list to start the season, Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Keith Rivers will not be added to the active roster.
The housecleaning for the Indianapolis Colts has begun, writes Phil Richards of the Indianapolis Star.
John Glennon of The Tennessean previews Sunday's Tennessee Titans game against the Bills.
Illinois businessman Shahid Khan has entered an agreement to purchase 100 percent of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Free agent quarterback Jake Delhomme is expected to be a good fit for the Houston Texans, head coach Gary Kubiak says.
Communication breakdowns are plaguing the Kansas City Chiefs, writes Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star.
Consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is helping the Denver Broncos win, writes Jeff Legwold of The Denver Post.
Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer is showing off his big arm.
It won't happen mid-season, but barring a miraculous turnaround, the San Diego Chargers will part ways with head coach Norv Turner.
Young players on the Arizona Cardinals are showing signs of improvement, writes Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore's role as a receiver has declined this season, writes Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice will not play against the Eagles on Thursday night.
Booing fans of the St. Louis Rams are not affecting head coach Steve Spagnuolo, but has frustrated the players, writes Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Green Bay Packers guard T.J. Lang's improved play can be attributed to an all-business approach.
The Minnesota Vikings shuffled their roster on Tuesday, placing four players on injured reserve.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie is hoping for a short learning curve.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is appealing his two-game suspension.
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle believes the team can right the ship and make a playoff run.
Philadelphia Eagles coaches Jim Washburn and Marty Mornhinweg have resolved their sideline dispute.
The Washington Redskins have added rookie cornerback Brandyn Thompson to the active roster.
Questions about the Carolina Panthers' running game have faded over the last nine games, writes Ron Green of the Charlotte Observer.
Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes' knee injury could lead to shuffling in the secondary for this Sunday's game against the Texans.
Setting NFL records is fine with New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, as long as the team is winning.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman cut his already sprained thumb at a shooting range last month.
Today's NFL birthdays: Bills nose tackle Torell Troup (23) and second-round cornerback Aaron Williams (22), Bears practice squad wide receiver Max Komar (24), Bengals cornerback Kelly Jennings (29), Colts cornerback Terrence Johnson (22), Jaguars defensive end Aaron Kampman (32) and practice squad defensive end Marc Schiechl (24), Eagles safety Nate Allen (24), Chargers defensive tackle Antonio Garay (32), 49ers rookie defensive tackle DeMarcus Dobbs (24), free agent tight end Richard Angulo (31), guard Stanley Daniels (27), defensive end Jeremy Jarmon (24), and wide receiver Antonio Robinson (26).
The late Hall of Famer Link Lyman was born 113 years ago today.
Former NFL offensive tackle James Brown (41), cornerback Larry Brown (42), quarterback Cotton Davidson (80), safety Robert Griffith (41), running backs Shawn Bryson (35) and Bo Jackson (49), wide receiver Sam McCullum (59), and linebacker Mike Walter (51).
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Rosenhaus Announces Pair Of 2012 NFL Draft Clients
NFL player agent Drew Rosenhaus announced that he has signed two new clients that are eligible for the 2012 NFL Draft.
Signing with Miami Beach-based Rosenhaus Sports Representation are former University of Miami quarterback Jacory Harris and linebacker Sean Spence.
Harris passed for 8,826 yards with 70 touchdowns and 48 touchdowns during his four seasons with the Hurricanes, but his slight build -- 6-foot-3, 195 pounds -- may keep NFL teams to using a draft choice on him in April.
Spence racked up 106 tackles from his outside linebacker position for the Hurricanes this season, including 14 tackles for a loss and three quarterback sacks. Spence is the ACC's all-time leader in tackles for a loss (46) and is projected to be picked in the second or third round next April.
Signing with Miami Beach-based Rosenhaus Sports Representation are former University of Miami quarterback Jacory Harris and linebacker Sean Spence.
Harris passed for 8,826 yards with 70 touchdowns and 48 touchdowns during his four seasons with the Hurricanes, but his slight build -- 6-foot-3, 195 pounds -- may keep NFL teams to using a draft choice on him in April.
Spence racked up 106 tackles from his outside linebacker position for the Hurricanes this season, including 14 tackles for a loss and three quarterback sacks. Spence is the ACC's all-time leader in tackles for a loss (46) and is projected to be picked in the second or third round next April.
Cowboys To Sign FB Shaun Chapas Off Practice Squad
Unsure of when fullback Tony Fiammetta will return from an illness, the Dallas Cowboys will sign rookie fullback Shaun Chapas off their practice squad, Todd Archer of ESPN Dallas reports.
Archer adds that wide receiver/return specialist Akwasi Owusu-Ansah is expected to be released to add Chapas, whose signing was alluded to by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Kris Durham, Chapas' former University of Georgia teammate.
Dallas' running game took off with Fiammetta leading the way, averaging 176.3 yards per game over a four-game stretch from Week 7-10. Without Fiammetta the last two weeks, the Cowboys have averaged 87 rushing yards per game.
Archer adds that wide receiver/return specialist Akwasi Owusu-Ansah is expected to be released to add Chapas, whose signing was alluded to by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Kris Durham, Chapas' former University of Georgia teammate.
Dallas' running game took off with Fiammetta leading the way, averaging 176.3 yards per game over a four-game stretch from Week 7-10. Without Fiammetta the last two weeks, the Cowboys have averaged 87 rushing yards per game.
Eagles-Seahawks Injury Report (Tuesday)
The Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks submitted the following injury and practice participation reports on Tuesday:
Philadelphia
Did not participate: T King Dunlap (concussion), LB Moise Fokou (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Limited participation: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), RB LeSean McCoy (toe), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle)
Full participation: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb)
Seattle
Did not participate: CB Byron Maxwell (illness), WR Sidney Rice (concussion)
Limited participation: LB David Hawthorne (knee), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Full participation: DT Alan Branch (ankle), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral)
Philadelphia
Did not participate: T King Dunlap (concussion), LB Moise Fokou (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Limited participation: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), RB LeSean McCoy (toe), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle)
Full participation: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb)
Seattle
Did not participate: CB Byron Maxwell (illness), WR Sidney Rice (concussion)
Limited participation: LB David Hawthorne (knee), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Full participation: DT Alan Branch (ankle), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral)
Vikings Place Four On Injured Reserve
The Minnesota Vikings made a flurry of roster moves on Tuesday, placing four players on injured reserve, including safeties Tyrell Johnson and Husain Abdullah, Dan Wiederer of the Star Tribune reports.
Johnson has a hamstring injury described as a "significant" by head coach Leslie Frazier, while Abdullah has missed the past few games with a concussion. Joining the two safeties on injured reserve are long-snapper Cullen Loeffler (lower-back fracture) and wide receiver Michael Jenkins, who has a knee injury.
To replace the four on the active roster, the Vikings re-signed wide receiver Stephen Burton, signed veteran long-snapper Matt Katula, and signed safeties Jarred Page and Andrew Sendejo.
Katula has 88 games' worth of experience with the Baltimore Ravens (2005-09) and New England Patriots (2010). The 27-year-old Page was a seventh-round pick out of UCLA by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006 who spent last season with the Patriots and started five of six games earlier this season for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Sendejo appeared in two games last season for the Dallas Cowboys and had a brief stint with the New York Jets earlier this season. Burton is a 2011 seventh-round pick out of West Texas A&M who has split his rookie season between the Vikings' active roster and practice squad. The Vikings waived him late last week to add tight end Allen Reisner to the 53-man roster.
Johnson has a hamstring injury described as a "significant" by head coach Leslie Frazier, while Abdullah has missed the past few games with a concussion. Joining the two safeties on injured reserve are long-snapper Cullen Loeffler (lower-back fracture) and wide receiver Michael Jenkins, who has a knee injury.
To replace the four on the active roster, the Vikings re-signed wide receiver Stephen Burton, signed veteran long-snapper Matt Katula, and signed safeties Jarred Page and Andrew Sendejo.
Katula has 88 games' worth of experience with the Baltimore Ravens (2005-09) and New England Patriots (2010). The 27-year-old Page was a seventh-round pick out of UCLA by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006 who spent last season with the Patriots and started five of six games earlier this season for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Sendejo appeared in two games last season for the Dallas Cowboys and had a brief stint with the New York Jets earlier this season. Burton is a 2011 seventh-round pick out of West Texas A&M who has split his rookie season between the Vikings' active roster and practice squad. The Vikings waived him late last week to add tight end Allen Reisner to the 53-man roster.
Sebastien Janikowski Named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week
To what should be the surprise of no one, Oakland Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski has been named the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Week, Steve Corkran of the Bay Area News Group reports.
Janikowski set a franchise record with six field goals -- from 40, 47, 42, 19, 37 and 44 yards -- in the Raiders' 25-20 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Janikowski had kicked five field goals in a game on three occasions, tying him with Jeff Jaeger for the club record.
On the season, Janikowski is 22-of-24 on field goal attempts with a long of an NFL-record tying 63 yards. This is the third time this season Janikowski has been named the "Special Teams Player of the Week", winning the award after Week 1 and Week 5.
Janikowski set a franchise record with six field goals -- from 40, 47, 42, 19, 37 and 44 yards -- in the Raiders' 25-20 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Janikowski had kicked five field goals in a game on three occasions, tying him with Jeff Jaeger for the club record.
On the season, Janikowski is 22-of-24 on field goal attempts with a long of an NFL-record tying 63 yards. This is the third time this season Janikowski has been named the "Special Teams Player of the Week", winning the award after Week 1 and Week 5.
Ravens LB Terrell Suggs Named AFC Defensive Player of the Week
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs has been named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week, Jamison Hensley of ESPN.com reports.
Suggs had three quarterback sack and a forced fumble in the Ravens' 16-6 win over the San Francisco 49ers last Thursday night. On the season, the four-time Pro Bowler has 49 tackles, nine quarterback sacks, three forced fumbles and two interceptions.
This is the fourth time a Ravens' linebacker has been named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week and second time Suggs has earned the honor. Suggs won the award after posting three quarterbacks sacks in the Ravens' 35-7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2011 regular season-opener. Ray Lewis (Week 3) and Jarrett Johnson (Week 4) won the award in back-to-back weeks.
Suggs had three quarterback sack and a forced fumble in the Ravens' 16-6 win over the San Francisco 49ers last Thursday night. On the season, the four-time Pro Bowler has 49 tackles, nine quarterback sacks, three forced fumbles and two interceptions.
This is the fourth time a Ravens' linebacker has been named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week and second time Suggs has earned the honor. Suggs won the award after posting three quarterbacks sacks in the Ravens' 35-7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2011 regular season-opener. Ray Lewis (Week 3) and Jarrett Johnson (Week 4) won the award in back-to-back weeks.
Browns Place Scott Fujita, Emmanuel Stephens On Injured Reserve
In addition to waiving long-snapper Ryan Pontbriand, the Cleveland Browns announced that they have placed linebacker Scott Fujita and defensive end Emmanuel Stephens on injured reserve.
Fujita was to undergo surgery this week to repair a broken right hand, while Stephens was expected to miss some time with a pectoral injury.
Fujita broke his hand in two places during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran linebacker ranks third on the Browns with 51 tackles this season, and has one of the team's six interceptions.
A first-year player out of Mississippi, Stephens has appeared in 11 games this season and worked his way into the starting lineup earlier this month. Overall, Stephens had 17 tackles.
Replacing Fujita and Stephens on the 53-man roster will be defensive Brian Sanford and linebacker Benjamin Jacobs, who are being elevated from the team's practice squad.
The Browns also signed safety David Sims, defensive end Ayanga Okpokowuruk and linebacker Brian Smith to the practice squad.
Fujita was to undergo surgery this week to repair a broken right hand, while Stephens was expected to miss some time with a pectoral injury.
Fujita broke his hand in two places during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran linebacker ranks third on the Browns with 51 tackles this season, and has one of the team's six interceptions.
A first-year player out of Mississippi, Stephens has appeared in 11 games this season and worked his way into the starting lineup earlier this month. Overall, Stephens had 17 tackles.
Replacing Fujita and Stephens on the 53-man roster will be defensive Brian Sanford and linebacker Benjamin Jacobs, who are being elevated from the team's practice squad.
The Browns also signed safety David Sims, defensive end Ayanga Okpokowuruk and linebacker Brian Smith to the practice squad.
Texans Sign QB Jake Delhomme
The Houston Texans have signed veteran quarterback Jake Delhomme, Rick Smith, Delhomme's agent, announced on Twitter.
After losing both Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart to season-ending injuries, the 36-year-old Delhomme worked out alongside 41-year-old Jeff Garcia for a spot as the veteran quarterback on a Texans roster that has 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates as the starter and newly-signed Kellen Clemens as the No. 2 quarterback.
"We’ve got a young quarterback and a backup who’s been here for four days," head coach Gary Kubiak said on Monday. "So we’ve got to find some experience, somebody who’s been in a few rodeos, and make sure we’re preparing for down the road."
Delhomme has completed nearly 60 percent of 2,904 pass attempts for for 20,764 yards with 125 touchdowns and 101 interceptions during his 10-year career with the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns, where he started four games in 2010.
After losing both Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart to season-ending injuries, the 36-year-old Delhomme worked out alongside 41-year-old Jeff Garcia for a spot as the veteran quarterback on a Texans roster that has 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates as the starter and newly-signed Kellen Clemens as the No. 2 quarterback.
"We’ve got a young quarterback and a backup who’s been here for four days," head coach Gary Kubiak said on Monday. "So we’ve got to find some experience, somebody who’s been in a few rodeos, and make sure we’re preparing for down the road."
Delhomme has completed nearly 60 percent of 2,904 pass attempts for for 20,764 yards with 125 touchdowns and 101 interceptions during his 10-year career with the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns, where he started four games in 2010.
Ravens Claim S Emanuel Cook Off Waivers
The Baltimore Ravens announced that they have claimed safety Emanuel Cook off waivers from the New York Jets.
Rookie linebacker Josh Bynes has been waived to add Cook to the 53-man roster.
Originally signed by the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2009, Cook spent most of 2009 on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad before re-joining the Jets last July.
Cook had eight tackles, mostly on special teams, in 12 games with the Jets over the last two seasons and is signed through the 2012 season.
Rookie linebacker Josh Bynes has been waived to add Cook to the 53-man roster.
Originally signed by the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2009, Cook spent most of 2009 on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad before re-joining the Jets last July.
Cook had eight tackles, mostly on special teams, in 12 games with the Jets over the last two seasons and is signed through the 2012 season.
Browns Waive LS Ryan Pontbriand
The Cleveland Browns have placed long-snapper Ryan Pontbriand on waivers, Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer reports.
A fifth-round pick out of Rice University in 2003, Pontbriand has handled the snapping duties in 134 of the last 139 games for the Browns, missing only the last five games of the 2005 season with a back injury.
Pontbriand has struggled in recent weeks, flubbing a snap on a potential game-winning field goal attempt in a 13-12 loss to the St. Louis Rams in Week 10 and on a field goal attempt that could have broken a 20-20 tie in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. A Pro Bowler in 2007 and 2008, Pontbriand is earning $825,000 in base salary in the final year of a five-year, $4.495 million contract extension signed before the 2007 season.
Rookie long-snapper Christian Yount has been signed to replace Pontbriand. Signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent out of UCLA, Yount handled the snapping duties for the first seven games of the 2011 regular season while veteran Andrew Economos was on the "Reserve/Non-Football Injury" list.
A fifth-round pick out of Rice University in 2003, Pontbriand has handled the snapping duties in 134 of the last 139 games for the Browns, missing only the last five games of the 2005 season with a back injury.
Pontbriand has struggled in recent weeks, flubbing a snap on a potential game-winning field goal attempt in a 13-12 loss to the St. Louis Rams in Week 10 and on a field goal attempt that could have broken a 20-20 tie in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. A Pro Bowler in 2007 and 2008, Pontbriand is earning $825,000 in base salary in the final year of a five-year, $4.495 million contract extension signed before the 2007 season.
Rookie long-snapper Christian Yount has been signed to replace Pontbriand. Signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent out of UCLA, Yount handled the snapping duties for the first seven games of the 2011 regular season while veteran Andrew Economos was on the "Reserve/Non-Football Injury" list.
Eagles Place LB Moise Fokou On Injured Reserve
The Philadelphia Eagles have placed linebacker Moise Fokou on injured reserve with an ankle injury.
Fokou started seven of the first eight games this season and has 22 tackles and two passes defensed in 11 games total this season. A 2009 seventh-round pick out of Maryland, Fokou has started 22 of his 43 games in the NFL, totaling 112 tackles and a quarterback sack.
Rookie linebacker Greg Lloyd, a 2011 seventh-round pick out of UCONN, has been promoted from their practice squad to the active roster. Lloyd made two tackles in the preseason before he was released and re-signed to the practice squad in September.
Fokou started seven of the first eight games this season and has 22 tackles and two passes defensed in 11 games total this season. A 2009 seventh-round pick out of Maryland, Fokou has started 22 of his 43 games in the NFL, totaling 112 tackles and a quarterback sack.
Rookie linebacker Greg Lloyd, a 2011 seventh-round pick out of UCONN, has been promoted from their practice squad to the active roster. Lloyd made two tackles in the preseason before he was released and re-signed to the practice squad in September.
Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson Named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week
Arizona Cardinals first-round cornerback Patrick Peterson has been named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week, Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com reports.
Peterson returned a punt 80 yards for a touchdown in the Cardinals' 23-20 win over the St. Louis Rams. It was Peterson's fourth return for a touchdown on the season, all of which have covered over 80 yards.
The return was also the second time Peterson had returned a punt for a touchdown against the Rams this season, joining a 99-yard return in overtime, giving the Cardinals a 19-13 win over in Week 9. That previous return against the Rams earned Peterson his first "Special Teams Player of the Week" honor.
Peterson returned a punt 80 yards for a touchdown in the Cardinals' 23-20 win over the St. Louis Rams. It was Peterson's fourth return for a touchdown on the season, all of which have covered over 80 yards.
The return was also the second time Peterson had returned a punt for a touchdown against the Rams this season, joining a 99-yard return in overtime, giving the Cardinals a 19-13 win over in Week 9. That previous return against the Rams earned Peterson his first "Special Teams Player of the Week" honor.
Saints QB Drew Brees Named NFC's Offensive Player of the Week
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has been named the NFC's Offensive Player of the Week, the team announced on Tuesday.
Brees completed 24-of-38 pass attempts for 363 yards and four touchdowns, and scored his first rushing touchdown of the season, in last night's 49-24 win over the New York Giants.
On the season, Brees leads the NFL in passing completions (323), attempts (460) and yards (3,689) and is third behind Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady with 27 touchdown passes and a 103.6 passer rating.
For Brees, this is the 12th time he's earned his conference's Player of the Week award in his career and second time this season. Brees won the same honor after completing 31-of-35 pass attempts for 325 yards and five touchdowns in a Sunday Night Football win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Brees completed 24-of-38 pass attempts for 363 yards and four touchdowns, and scored his first rushing touchdown of the season, in last night's 49-24 win over the New York Giants.
On the season, Brees leads the NFL in passing completions (323), attempts (460) and yards (3,689) and is third behind Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady with 27 touchdown passes and a 103.6 passer rating.
For Brees, this is the 12th time he's earned his conference's Player of the Week award in his career and second time this season. Brees won the same honor after completing 31-of-35 pass attempts for 325 yards and five touchdowns in a Sunday Night Football win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Dan Orlovsky To Start For Colts
Veteran quarterback Dan Orlovsky will start for the Indianapolis Colts when they visit the New England Patriots on Sunday, head coach Jim Caldwell announced on Tuesday.
Selected by the Detroit Lions in the fifth-round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of UCONN, Orlovsky completed 150-of-272 pass attempts for 1,679 yards with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions in 12 games with the Lions between the 2005 and 2008 seasons. Included during that stretch were seven games for the winless Lions team of 2008.
Orlovsky joined the Texans in 2009, appearing in one game before he was released for salary cap purposes after the lockout. Orlovsky went to training camp with the Colts, completing 46.3 percent of 54 pass attempts for 386 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions in four preseason games before he was waived on September 3.
Re-signed in late September, Orlovsky has appeared in three games in relief of Curtis Painter, completing 14-of-21 pass attempts for 122 yards.
Painter, a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Purdue, completed 54.3 percent of 243 pass attempts for 1,541 yards with six touchdowns and nine interceptions in his eight starts at the helm of Colts.
Selected by the Detroit Lions in the fifth-round of the 2005 NFL Draft out of UCONN, Orlovsky completed 150-of-272 pass attempts for 1,679 yards with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions in 12 games with the Lions between the 2005 and 2008 seasons. Included during that stretch were seven games for the winless Lions team of 2008.
Orlovsky joined the Texans in 2009, appearing in one game before he was released for salary cap purposes after the lockout. Orlovsky went to training camp with the Colts, completing 46.3 percent of 54 pass attempts for 386 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions in four preseason games before he was waived on September 3.
Re-signed in late September, Orlovsky has appeared in three games in relief of Curtis Painter, completing 14-of-21 pass attempts for 122 yards.
Painter, a 2009 sixth-round pick out of Purdue, completed 54.3 percent of 243 pass attempts for 1,541 yards with six touchdowns and nine interceptions in his eight starts at the helm of Colts.
Colts Fire DC Larry Coyer
The Indianapolis Colts announced the firing of defensive coordinator Larry Coyer, replacing him with longtime linebackers coach Mike Murphy.
"The move was made to improve communication and production," head coach Jim Caldwell said in a statement released by the team. "We feel this is the most effective and realistic way to move forward and win games this season. We appreciate all of the effort and hard work Larry Coyer put forth in his three years with the Colts."
The league's lone winless team, the 2011 Colts enter December ranking 29th in total defense, 31st against the run, 31st in interception rate, 32nd on third down, 30th in the red zone, 32nd in scoring defense and 32nd in both point and yard differential.
Coyer had been with the Colts since 2009, joining the team after previous NFL stops with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (assistant head coach/defensive line, 2007-08), Denver Broncos (linebackers/defensive coordinator, 2002-06) and the New York Jets (defensive line, 1994).
Murphy joined the Colts in 1998 after spending three seasons as the Seattle Seahawks linebackers coach. Murphy also coached linebackers with the Detroit Lions (1985-89) and Arizona Cardinals (1990-93).
"The move was made to improve communication and production," head coach Jim Caldwell said in a statement released by the team. "We feel this is the most effective and realistic way to move forward and win games this season. We appreciate all of the effort and hard work Larry Coyer put forth in his three years with the Colts."
The league's lone winless team, the 2011 Colts enter December ranking 29th in total defense, 31st against the run, 31st in interception rate, 32nd on third down, 30th in the red zone, 32nd in scoring defense and 32nd in both point and yard differential.
Coyer had been with the Colts since 2009, joining the team after previous NFL stops with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (assistant head coach/defensive line, 2007-08), Denver Broncos (linebackers/defensive coordinator, 2002-06) and the New York Jets (defensive line, 1994).
Murphy joined the Colts in 1998 after spending three seasons as the Seattle Seahawks linebackers coach. Murphy also coached linebackers with the Detroit Lions (1985-89) and Arizona Cardinals (1990-93).
Bears Waive LB Brian Iwuh (Update)
Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Iwuh has tweeted that he has been waived by the team.
"Good bye Chi town it's been real im out!", Iwuh wrote before telling one of his followers that he was waived.
UPDATE: Iwuh was "waived/injured", meaning he'd revert back to injured reserve if he's not claimed. An injury settlement is likely forthcoming.
Originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent out of Colorado in 2006, Iwuh has 115 tackles and one quarterback sack in 85 games over the last five-plus seasons. 61 of Iwuh's tackles, including all six this season, have come on special teams.
Released by the Jaguars in 2010, Iwuh had 26 tackles in 16 games with the Bears last season and signed a one-year, $710,000 contract to return to the club on August 2.
"Good bye Chi town it's been real im out!", Iwuh wrote before telling one of his followers that he was waived.
UPDATE: Iwuh was "waived/injured", meaning he'd revert back to injured reserve if he's not claimed. An injury settlement is likely forthcoming.
Originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent out of Colorado in 2006, Iwuh has 115 tackles and one quarterback sack in 85 games over the last five-plus seasons. 61 of Iwuh's tackles, including all six this season, have come on special teams.
Released by the Jaguars in 2010, Iwuh had 26 tackles in 16 games with the Bears last season and signed a one-year, $710,000 contract to return to the club on August 2.
Jaguars Being Sold To Shahid Khan
Jacksonville Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver confirmed that the team has entered into an agreement to sell the team to Illinois businessman Shahid Khan.
No specifics about the value of the deal were disclosed. The Jaguars are believed to be the least valuable team in the NFL, with an estimated value of around $725 million. Mr. Weaver purchased the club for $140 million in 1993.
Weaver said that the sale received the endorsement from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and he's confident that the sale will be ratified by the league's finance committee on December 6.
A full vote of the 32 owners will take place on December 14 in Dallas.
Khan, who owns auto parts manufactured Flex-N-Gate Corp, attempted to purchase a 60 percent stake in the St. Louis Rams before that offer was matched by minority owner Stan Kroenke. Weaver said that while there is nothing in writing, Khan is committed to keeping the club in Jacksonville and will be purchasing a home in the area.
No specifics about the value of the deal were disclosed. The Jaguars are believed to be the least valuable team in the NFL, with an estimated value of around $725 million. Mr. Weaver purchased the club for $140 million in 1993.
Weaver said that the sale received the endorsement from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and he's confident that the sale will be ratified by the league's finance committee on December 6.
A full vote of the 32 owners will take place on December 14 in Dallas.
Khan, who owns auto parts manufactured Flex-N-Gate Corp, attempted to purchase a 60 percent stake in the St. Louis Rams before that offer was matched by minority owner Stan Kroenke. Weaver said that while there is nothing in writing, Khan is committed to keeping the club in Jacksonville and will be purchasing a home in the area.
Jaguars Extend GM Gene Smith's Contract
In addition to firing head coach Jack Del Rio, the Jacksonville Jaguars have extended the contract of general manager Gene Smith, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports.
Smith has been with the Jaguars since 1995 and has been the team's general manager since January of 2009. Smith was in the final year of his contract and reportedly turned down an extension in the offseason.
"A contract was extended to me and I declined it," Smith told the Florida Times-Union earlier this month. "I did not think I deserved an extension based on the conditions. Our scouts and other employees weren’t being extended. I didn’t think I deserved it.
"However, I do appreciate that (Jaguars owner) Wayne (Weaver) offered me one."
Since taking over as general manager, the Jaguars are 18-25, but did add a potential franchise quarterback (Blaine Gabbert) with their first round pick in 2011. The Jaguars have 51 players under contract for 2012 - most in the NFL -- with around $86 million in cash commitments and $103 million in salary cap commitments for next season.
There are additional reports by ESPN that Weaver is selling the team, with Sports Illustrated's Peter King naming Illinois-based businessman Shahid Khan as the potential buyer.
Khan attempted to purchase the St. Louis Rams in 2010, but minority owner Stan Kroenke blocked the sale by exercising his option to purchase the remaining share of the club. Khan is expected to keep the Jaguars in Jacksonville.
Smith has been with the Jaguars since 1995 and has been the team's general manager since January of 2009. Smith was in the final year of his contract and reportedly turned down an extension in the offseason.
"A contract was extended to me and I declined it," Smith told the Florida Times-Union earlier this month. "I did not think I deserved an extension based on the conditions. Our scouts and other employees weren’t being extended. I didn’t think I deserved it.
"However, I do appreciate that (Jaguars owner) Wayne (Weaver) offered me one."
Since taking over as general manager, the Jaguars are 18-25, but did add a potential franchise quarterback (Blaine Gabbert) with their first round pick in 2011. The Jaguars have 51 players under contract for 2012 - most in the NFL -- with around $86 million in cash commitments and $103 million in salary cap commitments for next season.
There are additional reports by ESPN that Weaver is selling the team, with Sports Illustrated's Peter King naming Illinois-based businessman Shahid Khan as the potential buyer.
Khan attempted to purchase the St. Louis Rams in 2010, but minority owner Stan Kroenke blocked the sale by exercising his option to purchase the remaining share of the club. Khan is expected to keep the Jaguars in Jacksonville.
Lions DT Ndamukong Suh Suspended Two Games Without Pay
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has been informed that he will be suspended for two games without pay, Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports.
Suh was ejected from the Lions' 27-15 loss to the Green Bay Packers after stomping on Packers guard Evan Dietrich-Smith in the third quarter. Suh had also pinned Dietrich-Smith's head to the ground before the stomping incident.
Selected with the second overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft, Suh earned Pro Bowl, All-Pro and NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors last season. Suh also signed a five-year, $61 million contract that included $40 million in guaranteed money. The bulk of that money was paid out this season in the form of a $7.195 million roster bonus and $17.35 million option bonus to go along with $1.405 million in base salary.
A suspension without pay means Suh will forfeit $165,294 in salary and will not be able to practice with the team, who would be fined $50,000 for having their players' yearly fine total exceeding $100,00. An appeal would be expedited, meaning if upheld, Suh would sit out next Sunday night's game against the Detroit Lions and the following week's game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Suh was ejected from the Lions' 27-15 loss to the Green Bay Packers after stomping on Packers guard Evan Dietrich-Smith in the third quarter. Suh had also pinned Dietrich-Smith's head to the ground before the stomping incident.
Selected with the second overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft, Suh earned Pro Bowl, All-Pro and NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors last season. Suh also signed a five-year, $61 million contract that included $40 million in guaranteed money. The bulk of that money was paid out this season in the form of a $7.195 million roster bonus and $17.35 million option bonus to go along with $1.405 million in base salary.
A suspension without pay means Suh will forfeit $165,294 in salary and will not be able to practice with the team, who would be fined $50,000 for having their players' yearly fine total exceeding $100,00. An appeal would be expedited, meaning if upheld, Suh would sit out next Sunday night's game against the Detroit Lions and the following week's game against the Minnesota Vikings.
NFL News and Notes - November 29, 2011
Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett should be coach of the year, writes Mac Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross had a forgettable night against Drew Brees and the Saints.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin are unlikely to play against the Seahawks on Thursday night.
After a breakout performance in Seattle, Washington Redskins rookie running back Roy Helu will remain the starter.
Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera discussed the team's rookies.
The Atlanta Falcons are scheduled to face rookie quarterbacks the next three weeks, writes Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Josh Freeman have lost their knack for comeback wins, writes Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times.
Quarterback Drew Brees accounted for five touchdowns as the New Orleans Saints dismantled the Giants on Monday Night Football.
Already 2-9, the St. Louis Rams face a tough schedule to close out the season, writes Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells is getting tougher, writes Bob McManaman of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Braylon Edwards is playing through a nagging shoulder injury.
A go-to receiver in 2010, Mike Williams has been a non-factor on offense for the Seattle Seahawks this season.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver is thinking more about life after football.
Minnesota Vikings long-snapper Cullen Loeffler will miss two-to-six weeks with a lower-back fracture.
More baffling play-calling is leading to questions about the future of Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh contacted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to apologize for his actions last Thursday.
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson regrets his end zone celebration from Sunday.
Ron Borges of the Boston Herald grades the New England Patriots following their 38-20 win over the Eagles.
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan would take his team continuing to be lucky for the rest of the season.
Miami Dolphins right guard Vernon Carey has already shed the walking boot he had on his left ankle after last Thursday's loss to Dallas.
Improvement on offense depends on consistent offensive line play for the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite their win, the Pittsburgh Steelers offense is out of sync.
Cleveland Browns first-round wide receiver Greg Little knows dropped passes will keep from being a big-time player.
Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer provides his report card from the Cincinnati Bengals' 23-20 win over the Browns on Sunday.
Indianapolis Colts vice chairman Bill Polian disputed a grim report about quarterback Peyton Manning's future.
After a slow start to the season, the Tennessee Titans' running game is headed in the right direction, head coach Mike Munchak said.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio has been fired.
With Matt Leinart out for the season, the Houston Texans will workout veterans Jake Delhomme and Jeff Garcia today, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Kyle Orton will get first-team reps in practice this week.
The Denver Broncos had a November to remember, writes Lindsay Jones of The Denver Post.
Six weeks after surgery, Oakland Raiders quarterback Jason Campbell has begun throwing, Paul Gutierrez of CSN Bay Area reports.
San Diego Chargers head coach Norv Turner is tuning out the talk about his (lack of) job security.
Today's NFL birthdays: Ravens linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (26), Raiders center Samson Satele (27), free agent safety Jamar Adams (26), cornerback Karl Paymah (29), linebackers Bryan Smith (28) and Nate Webster (34) and defensive tackle Kade Weston (25).
Former NFL defensive end and current Browns defensive line coach Dwaine Board (55), punter Rich Camarillo (52) and running back Lamar Smith (41)
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross had a forgettable night against Drew Brees and the Saints.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin are unlikely to play against the Seahawks on Thursday night.
After a breakout performance in Seattle, Washington Redskins rookie running back Roy Helu will remain the starter.
Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera discussed the team's rookies.
The Atlanta Falcons are scheduled to face rookie quarterbacks the next three weeks, writes Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Josh Freeman have lost their knack for comeback wins, writes Rick Stroud of the St. Petersburg Times.
Quarterback Drew Brees accounted for five touchdowns as the New Orleans Saints dismantled the Giants on Monday Night Football.
Already 2-9, the St. Louis Rams face a tough schedule to close out the season, writes Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells is getting tougher, writes Bob McManaman of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Braylon Edwards is playing through a nagging shoulder injury.
A go-to receiver in 2010, Mike Williams has been a non-factor on offense for the Seattle Seahawks this season.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver is thinking more about life after football.
Minnesota Vikings long-snapper Cullen Loeffler will miss two-to-six weeks with a lower-back fracture.
More baffling play-calling is leading to questions about the future of Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh contacted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to apologize for his actions last Thursday.
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Steve Johnson regrets his end zone celebration from Sunday.
Ron Borges of the Boston Herald grades the New England Patriots following their 38-20 win over the Eagles.
New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan would take his team continuing to be lucky for the rest of the season.
Miami Dolphins right guard Vernon Carey has already shed the walking boot he had on his left ankle after last Thursday's loss to Dallas.
Improvement on offense depends on consistent offensive line play for the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite their win, the Pittsburgh Steelers offense is out of sync.
Cleveland Browns first-round wide receiver Greg Little knows dropped passes will keep from being a big-time player.
Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer provides his report card from the Cincinnati Bengals' 23-20 win over the Browns on Sunday.
Indianapolis Colts vice chairman Bill Polian disputed a grim report about quarterback Peyton Manning's future.
After a slow start to the season, the Tennessee Titans' running game is headed in the right direction, head coach Mike Munchak said.
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio has been fired.
With Matt Leinart out for the season, the Houston Texans will workout veterans Jake Delhomme and Jeff Garcia today, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Kyle Orton will get first-team reps in practice this week.
The Denver Broncos had a November to remember, writes Lindsay Jones of The Denver Post.
Six weeks after surgery, Oakland Raiders quarterback Jason Campbell has begun throwing, Paul Gutierrez of CSN Bay Area reports.
San Diego Chargers head coach Norv Turner is tuning out the talk about his (lack of) job security.
Today's NFL birthdays: Ravens linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (26), Raiders center Samson Satele (27), free agent safety Jamar Adams (26), cornerback Karl Paymah (29), linebackers Bryan Smith (28) and Nate Webster (34) and defensive tackle Kade Weston (25).
Former NFL defensive end and current Browns defensive line coach Dwaine Board (55), punter Rich Camarillo (52) and running back Lamar Smith (41)
Jaguars Fire HC Jack Del Rio
The Jacksonville Jaguars have fired head coach Jack Del Rio, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports.
Defensive coordinator Mel Tucker will be the interim head coach, Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union reports.
A former Pro Bowl linebacker who spent 11 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings, Del Rio began his coaching career as a strength and conditioning coach in New Orleans in 1997 before becoming the Baltimore Ravens' linebackers coach in 1999. After three seasons in Baltimore, Del Rio coordinated the Carolina Panthers defense in 2002 and was hired by the Jaguars the following year.
In eight-plus seasons with the Jaguars, Del Rio compiled a 68-71 record during the regular season and a 1-2 record in the playoffs. Jacksonville has not made the playoffs since the 2007 season and are 3-8 in 2011.
Mike Freeman of CBSSports.com notes that Del Rio is still owed $5 million.
Defensive coordinator Mel Tucker will be the interim head coach, Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union reports.
A former Pro Bowl linebacker who spent 11 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings, Del Rio began his coaching career as a strength and conditioning coach in New Orleans in 1997 before becoming the Baltimore Ravens' linebackers coach in 1999. After three seasons in Baltimore, Del Rio coordinated the Carolina Panthers defense in 2002 and was hired by the Jaguars the following year.
In eight-plus seasons with the Jaguars, Del Rio compiled a 68-71 record during the regular season and a 1-2 record in the playoffs. Jacksonville has not made the playoffs since the 2007 season and are 3-8 in 2011.
Mike Freeman of CBSSports.com notes that Del Rio is still owed $5 million.
Chiefs Waive OT Jared Gaither
The Kansas City Chiefs have placed offensive tackle Jared Gaither on waivers, Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com reports.
Gaither appeared in 10 games in a reserve role for the Chiefs this season. During Sunday night's 13-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Gaither replaced an injured Branden Albert at left tackle during the team's final drive, committing a false start penalty on a 1st-and-10 play from the Steelers' 32-yard line. Chiefs quarterback Tyler Palko was intercepted on the following play, ending the comeback effort.
A 2007 Supplemental Draft choice of the Baltimore Ravens, the 6-foot-9, 340-pound Gaither started 28 games over his first three seasons in the league before missing 2010 with a back injury.
In August, Gaither signed a one-year deal at the league minimum ($685,000) with the Chiefs, which has $201,471 remaining over the final five weeks.
Gaither appeared in 10 games in a reserve role for the Chiefs this season. During Sunday night's 13-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Gaither replaced an injured Branden Albert at left tackle during the team's final drive, committing a false start penalty on a 1st-and-10 play from the Steelers' 32-yard line. Chiefs quarterback Tyler Palko was intercepted on the following play, ending the comeback effort.
A 2007 Supplemental Draft choice of the Baltimore Ravens, the 6-foot-9, 340-pound Gaither started 28 games over his first three seasons in the league before missing 2010 with a back injury.
In August, Gaither signed a one-year deal at the league minimum ($685,000) with the Chiefs, which has $201,471 remaining over the final five weeks.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Eagles-Seahawks Injury Report (Monday)
Because they play on Thursday night, the Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks were required to submit injury and practice participation reports on Monday.
Both teams conducted walk-through practices, and the reports below are considered estimations.
Philadelphia
Did not participate: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), T King Dunlap (concussion), LB Moise Fokou (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Limited participation: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb), RB LeSean McCoy (toe), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle)
Seattle
Did not participate: WR Sidney Rice (concussion)
Limited participation: DT Alan Branch (ankle), LB David Hawthorne (knee), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral), CB Byron Maxwell (illness), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Both teams conducted walk-through practices, and the reports below are considered estimations.
Philadelphia
Did not participate: CB Nnamdi Asomugha (knee), T King Dunlap (concussion), LB Moise Fokou (ankle), WR Jeremy Maclin (hamstring, shoulder), QB Michael Vick (ribs)
Limited participation: DT Cullen Jenkins (thumb), RB LeSean McCoy (toe), CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (ankle)
Seattle
Did not participate: WR Sidney Rice (concussion)
Limited participation: DT Alan Branch (ankle), LB David Hawthorne (knee), QB Tarvaris Jackson (pectoral), CB Byron Maxwell (illness), CB Richard Sherman (calf)
Giants-Saints MNF Inactives
Below are the inactive lists for tonight's New York Giants-New Orleans Saints game:
NY Giants: RB Ahmad Bradshaw, WR Mario Manningham, T Will Beatty, OL James Brewer, DT Jimmy Kennedy, LB Michael Boley, S Derrick Martin
New Orleans: RB Chris Ivory, WR Adrian Arrington, TE Michael Higgins, T Will Robinson, DE Turk McBride, LB Jonathan Vilma, CB Johnny Patrick
NY Giants: RB Ahmad Bradshaw, WR Mario Manningham, T Will Beatty, OL James Brewer, DT Jimmy Kennedy, LB Michael Boley, S Derrick Martin
New Orleans: RB Chris Ivory, WR Adrian Arrington, TE Michael Higgins, T Will Robinson, DE Turk McBride, LB Jonathan Vilma, CB Johnny Patrick
Colts Claim FB Jerome Felton Off Waivers
The Indianapolis Colts claimed fullback Jerome Felton off waivers from the Carolina Panthers, Colts owner Jim Irsay announced on Twitter
A 2008 fifth-round pick out of Furman by the Detroit Lions, the 6-foot, 247-pound Felton has started 17 of his 51 games with the Lions and Panthers, carrying the ball 42 times for 136 yards and adding 32 receptions for 264 yards.
Felton is earning a $1.2 million base salary this season, with the Colts on the hook for the $352,941 that remains over the final five weeks of the season.
A 2008 fifth-round pick out of Furman by the Detroit Lions, the 6-foot, 247-pound Felton has started 17 of his 51 games with the Lions and Panthers, carrying the ball 42 times for 136 yards and adding 32 receptions for 264 yards.
Felton is earning a $1.2 million base salary this season, with the Colts on the hook for the $352,941 that remains over the final five weeks of the season.
Broncos Add LB Mike Mohamed, S Kyle McCarthy To Active Roster
The Denver Broncos announced the promotions of linebacker Mike Mohamed and safety Kyle McCarthy from the practice squad to the 53-man roster.
Cornerback Cassius Vaughn was placed on injured reserve with a fractured fibula. The Broncos had an open roster after placing quarterback Kyle Orton on waivers last week.
A sixth-round pick out of Cal, Mohamed led the Broncos in tackles (15) during the preseason, earning a spot on the 53-man roster. Mohamed appeared in two games before he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad in Week 3.
The Broncos signed McCarthy as an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame in 2010. In eight games last season, McCarthy recorded four tackles, including two on special teams before going on injured reserve with a knee injury. McCarthy had been on the Broncos practice squad since the start of the season.
Cornerback Cassius Vaughn was placed on injured reserve with a fractured fibula. The Broncos had an open roster after placing quarterback Kyle Orton on waivers last week.
A sixth-round pick out of Cal, Mohamed led the Broncos in tackles (15) during the preseason, earning a spot on the 53-man roster. Mohamed appeared in two games before he was waived and re-signed to the practice squad in Week 3.
The Broncos signed McCarthy as an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame in 2010. In eight games last season, McCarthy recorded four tackles, including two on special teams before going on injured reserve with a knee injury. McCarthy had been on the Broncos practice squad since the start of the season.
Seahawks Place LB David Vobora On Injured Reserve
The Seattle Seahawks have placed linebacker David Vobora on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, Danny O'Neil of The Seattle Times reports.
Vobora appeared in six games for the Seahawks, primarily on special teams, though the former seventh-round pick out of Idaho by the St. Louis Rams did log seven snaps as a weak-side linebacker in base defense in Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Washington Redskins on Sunday.
Rookie linebacker Adrian Moten has been claimed off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts.
An undrafted free agent out of Maryland, Moten had been listed as "Questionable" for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers for "non-injury/discipline" reasons prior to his release. Moten had dressed for all 10 of the Colts' games this season, posting seven tackles, including four on special teams.
The rookie also recovered a fumble on special teams and had 12 tackles and an interception in four preseason games.
Vobora appeared in six games for the Seahawks, primarily on special teams, though the former seventh-round pick out of Idaho by the St. Louis Rams did log seven snaps as a weak-side linebacker in base defense in Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Washington Redskins on Sunday.
Rookie linebacker Adrian Moten has been claimed off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts.
An undrafted free agent out of Maryland, Moten had been listed as "Questionable" for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers for "non-injury/discipline" reasons prior to his release. Moten had dressed for all 10 of the Colts' games this season, posting seven tackles, including four on special teams.
The rookie also recovered a fumble on special teams and had 12 tackles and an interception in four preseason games.
Jets Waive S Emanuel Cook
The New York Jets have placed safety Emanuel Cook on waivers, the team announced on Monday.
Originally signed by the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2009, Cook spent most of 2009 on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad before re-joining the Jets last July. Cook had eight tackles, mostly on special teams, in 12 games with the Jets over the last two seasons. Any team that claims Cook would have his rights through the 2012 season.
Safety Tracy Wilson, an undrafted rookie from Northern Illinois, will be signed to the 53-man roster. Wilson recorded three tackles, including two on special teams, during the preseason. Waived in September, Wilson joined the Jets' practice squad in Week 6.
Originally signed by the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2009, Cook spent most of 2009 on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad before re-joining the Jets last July. Cook had eight tackles, mostly on special teams, in 12 games with the Jets over the last two seasons. Any team that claims Cook would have his rights through the 2012 season.
Safety Tracy Wilson, an undrafted rookie from Northern Illinois, will be signed to the 53-man roster. Wilson recorded three tackles, including two on special teams, during the preseason. Waived in September, Wilson joined the Jets' practice squad in Week 6.
Gary Kubiak Confirms Matt Leinart's Fractured Collarbone
Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak has confirmed that quarterback Matt Leinart has a fractured collarbone that will require season-ending surgery.
Starting in place of the injured Matt Schaub, who was placed on injured reserve last week, Leinart completed 10-of-13 pass attempts for 57 yards and a 20-yard touchdown to backup tight end Joel Dreessen before exiting in the second quarter of the Texans' 20-13 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Leinart was injured when Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey dragged him to the turf while Leinart was attempting to throw the ball away to avoid a sack. 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates replaced Leinart, with tight end Owen Daniels serving as the emergency quarterback as the newly-signed Kellen Clemens was inactive on Sunday.
Yates completed eight of 15 attempts for 70 yards, but did not turn the ball over or take a sack as the Texans hung onto a lead to improve to 8-3 and two games ahead of the Tennessee Titans in the AFC South.
Clemens and Yates will be joined by a quarterback, Kubiak confirmed, though the identity of which player that is was not made known. In addition to Clemens, the Texans had worked out Brodie Croyle, Jeff Garcia, Trent Edwards and Chase Clement last Monday.
For Leinart, this is second time he has fractured his left collarbone. The previous time came when he was the starting quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals, who used the tenth overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft on the left-hander from USC. Kurt Warner took the reigns in Arizona for the next two-plus seasons, leading the franchise to a Super Bowl in 2008.
When Warner retired following the 2009 season, Leinart was unable to beat out Derek Anderson for the starting job and the Cardinals released Leinart prior to the regular season. Leinart hooked on with the Texans, spending the season as the No. 3 quarterback behind Schaub and Dan Orlovsky.
A free agent after the lockout, Leinart signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract to remain with the Texans.
Starting in place of the injured Matt Schaub, who was placed on injured reserve last week, Leinart completed 10-of-13 pass attempts for 57 yards and a 20-yard touchdown to backup tight end Joel Dreessen before exiting in the second quarter of the Texans' 20-13 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Leinart was injured when Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey dragged him to the turf while Leinart was attempting to throw the ball away to avoid a sack. 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates replaced Leinart, with tight end Owen Daniels serving as the emergency quarterback as the newly-signed Kellen Clemens was inactive on Sunday.
Yates completed eight of 15 attempts for 70 yards, but did not turn the ball over or take a sack as the Texans hung onto a lead to improve to 8-3 and two games ahead of the Tennessee Titans in the AFC South.
Clemens and Yates will be joined by a quarterback, Kubiak confirmed, though the identity of which player that is was not made known. In addition to Clemens, the Texans had worked out Brodie Croyle, Jeff Garcia, Trent Edwards and Chase Clement last Monday.
For Leinart, this is second time he has fractured his left collarbone. The previous time came when he was the starting quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals, who used the tenth overall pick of the 2006 NFL Draft on the left-hander from USC. Kurt Warner took the reigns in Arizona for the next two-plus seasons, leading the franchise to a Super Bowl in 2008.
When Warner retired following the 2009 season, Leinart was unable to beat out Derek Anderson for the starting job and the Cardinals released Leinart prior to the regular season. Leinart hooked on with the Texans, spending the season as the No. 3 quarterback behind Schaub and Dan Orlovsky.
A free agent after the lockout, Leinart signed a two-year, $5.5 million contract to remain with the Texans.
Cardinals Optimistic About Kevin Kolb Returning This Week
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt is optimistic of quarterback Kevin Kolb returning from a turf toe/bone bruise that has kept him out of the starting lineup the last four weeks.
"I think we are certainly a lot more optimistic about him being able to go this week,” Whisenhunt said via Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com. "It will depend on where he is Wednesday, but he made enough progress last week that you feel good about him being able to do it."
Second-year quarterback John Skelton has started the four games Kolb has missed, during which time the Cardinals have gone 3-1 to improve to 4-7 on the season. Skelton played well the first two weeks, passing for 537 yards and four touchdowns, but has struggled the last two outings, completing 18-of-42 pass attempts for 213 yards with five interceptions and giving way to Richard Bartel in a 23-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 11.
Kolb has been a limited participant in Cardinals practices the last two weeks. If he's able to participate fully at some point this week, odds are good he'll be the starter when the Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday afternoon.
"I think we are certainly a lot more optimistic about him being able to go this week,” Whisenhunt said via Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com. "It will depend on where he is Wednesday, but he made enough progress last week that you feel good about him being able to do it."
Second-year quarterback John Skelton has started the four games Kolb has missed, during which time the Cardinals have gone 3-1 to improve to 4-7 on the season. Skelton played well the first two weeks, passing for 537 yards and four touchdowns, but has struggled the last two outings, completing 18-of-42 pass attempts for 213 yards with five interceptions and giving way to Richard Bartel in a 23-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 11.
Kolb has been a limited participant in Cardinals practices the last two weeks. If he's able to participate fully at some point this week, odds are good he'll be the starter when the Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday afternoon.
Browns LB Scott Fujita Needs Surgery On Broken Hand
Cleveland Browns head coach Pat Shurmur says linebacker Scott Fujita needs surgery on his broken right hand and will miss significant time, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer reports.
Fujita broke his hand in two places during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran linebacker ranks third on the Browns with 51 tackles this season, and has one of the team's six interceptions. With five games remaining in a season that likely won't end with a trip to the post-season, injured reserve could be an option for Fujita.
In addition to Fujita, the Browns could be without starting defensive end Emmanuel Stephens for a significant period time due to a pectoral injury.
Fujita broke his hand in two places during the fourth quarter of Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran linebacker ranks third on the Browns with 51 tackles this season, and has one of the team's six interceptions. With five games remaining in a season that likely won't end with a trip to the post-season, injured reserve could be an option for Fujita.
In addition to Fujita, the Browns could be without starting defensive end Emmanuel Stephens for a significant period time due to a pectoral injury.
NFL Moves Week 14's Raiders-Packers Game To 4:15pm ET Start
The National Football League announced that the start time of the Week 14 game between the Oakland Raiders and Green Bay Packers has been moved from 1pm ET to 4:15pm ET.
That game between the AFC West-leading Raiders and NFC North-leading Packers becomes the marquee game in that time slot for CBS, which also has the Buffalo Bills-San Diego Chargers scheduled for a 4:15pm ET start.
The New York Giants-Dallas Cowboys game will remain in prime time on Sunday. Entering tonight's game between the Giants and New Orleans Saints, the Cowboys have a half-game lead over the Giants in the NFC East standings.
That game between the AFC West-leading Raiders and NFC North-leading Packers becomes the marquee game in that time slot for CBS, which also has the Buffalo Bills-San Diego Chargers scheduled for a 4:15pm ET start.
The New York Giants-Dallas Cowboys game will remain in prime time on Sunday. Entering tonight's game between the Giants and New Orleans Saints, the Cowboys have a half-game lead over the Giants in the NFC East standings.
Blaine Gabbert Remains The Starter In Jacksonville
Midway through the fourth quarter of the Jacksonville Jaguars' 20-13 loss to the Houston Texans, Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio replaced rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert with veteran Luke McCown.
McCown completed 7-of-11 attempts for 62 yards, led the offense on a drive that resulted in a field goal, but couldn't score the touchdown necessary to get the game into overtime.
"When he was called on, he went in there and gave us a spark," Del Rio said of McCown according to the Florida Times-Union.
Del Rio said that Gabbert remains the starter "until I tell you otherwise", leaving the door open for McCown, who opened the season at the top of the depth chart, to possibly start next Monday night's game against the San Diego Chargers.
Gabbert, the 10th overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, completed just 13-of-29 pass attempts for 136 yards with an interception and was sacked six times in three-and-a-half quarters of work on Sunday. For the season, Gabbert is completing 48.5 percent of his 264 pass attempts for 1,371 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions.
Gabbert has also been sacked 28 times, which is tied for the fourth-most in the NFL.
McCown completed 7-of-11 attempts for 62 yards, led the offense on a drive that resulted in a field goal, but couldn't score the touchdown necessary to get the game into overtime.
"When he was called on, he went in there and gave us a spark," Del Rio said of McCown according to the Florida Times-Union.
Del Rio said that Gabbert remains the starter "until I tell you otherwise", leaving the door open for McCown, who opened the season at the top of the depth chart, to possibly start next Monday night's game against the San Diego Chargers.
Gabbert, the 10th overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, completed just 13-of-29 pass attempts for 136 yards with an interception and was sacked six times in three-and-a-half quarters of work on Sunday. For the season, Gabbert is completing 48.5 percent of his 264 pass attempts for 1,371 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions.
Gabbert has also been sacked 28 times, which is tied for the fourth-most in the NFL.
Broncos CB Cassius Vaughn Fractures Fibula
Denver Broncos cornerback and return specialist Cassius Vaughn suffered a broken fibula during a 36-yard kickoff return in the first quarter of Sunday's 16-13 overtime win over the San Diego Chargers, Lindsay Jones of The Denver Post reports.
Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi in 2010, Vaughn had eight tackles, including five stops and two fumble recoveries on special teams, and returned one of his two kick returns 97 yards for a touchdown in 13 games as a rookie.
Vaughn's role increased in 2011, even starting three games in September/October when Champ Bailey was hurt. In nine games this season, Vaughn has 20 tackles, four passes defensed and an interception, which he returned 55 yards for a touchdown, along with a 30-yard average on seven kick returns.
Wide receiver Eric Decker replaced Vaughn on kick returns on Sunday, averaging 25 yards on two returns. Quan Cosby, inactive the last two weeks, could resume those duties on a full-time basis going forward.
The injury will likely land Vaughn on the injured reserve list, meaning the Broncos will have two roster spots to fill this week. Denver chose not to add a player to the active roster after they waived quarterback Kyle Orton, though practice squad quarterback Adam Weber appears to be a logical addition.
Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi in 2010, Vaughn had eight tackles, including five stops and two fumble recoveries on special teams, and returned one of his two kick returns 97 yards for a touchdown in 13 games as a rookie.
Vaughn's role increased in 2011, even starting three games in September/October when Champ Bailey was hurt. In nine games this season, Vaughn has 20 tackles, four passes defensed and an interception, which he returned 55 yards for a touchdown, along with a 30-yard average on seven kick returns.
Wide receiver Eric Decker replaced Vaughn on kick returns on Sunday, averaging 25 yards on two returns. Quan Cosby, inactive the last two weeks, could resume those duties on a full-time basis going forward.
The injury will likely land Vaughn on the injured reserve list, meaning the Broncos will have two roster spots to fill this week. Denver chose not to add a player to the active roster after they waived quarterback Kyle Orton, though practice squad quarterback Adam Weber appears to be a logical addition.
NFL News and Notes - November 28, 2011
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady quieted his critics with a big day against the Eagles.
Filling in for an injured Fred Jackson, Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller was not satisfied with his performance on Sunday.
New York Jets cornerbacks shrugged off their tough day against the Bills.
The Miami Dolphins could have an easier schedule in 2012, writes Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
Home-field advantage in the AFC Playoffs is now a pursuit of the Baltimore Ravens.
Turnovers were the difference in the Pittsburgh Steelers' 13-9 win over the Chiefs on Sunday night.
The Cleveland Browns offensive struggles in the second half were punctuated by rookie Greg Little dropping a pivotal pass in the final two minutes.
Another fourth quarter comeback keeps the Cincinnati Bengals as the second wild card team in the AFC Playoffs.
Quarterback Curtis Painter was intercepted in the end zone twice in the final four minutes, keeping the Indianapolis Colts winless on the season.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck hitting Damian Williams in the back of the end zone with three minutes to play kept the team's playoff hopes alive.
Despite being benched in the fourth quarter, Jacksonville Jaguars first-round quarterback Blaine Gabbert will remain the starter.
With Matt Leinart going down with a broken collarbone, the Houston Texans will need their running game and defense even more down the stretch.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Palko's four turnovers were costly on Sunday night.
After leading the Denver Broncos to an overtime win over the Chargers, there is no doubting the competitiveness of quarterback Tim Tebow.
Oakland Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski set a franchise-record with six field goals on Sunday.
The San Diego Chargers blew several opportunities to put the Broncos away and are now 4-7 and likely done in the playoff race.
Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells is finally tapping into his potential, writes Dan Bickley of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith and wide receiver Braylon Edwards are not on the same page, writes Matthew Barrows of The Sacramento Bee.
The Seattle Seahawks' playoff hopes are likely dashed after blowing a 10-point fourth-quarter lead against the Redskins.
St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo deserves the blame for Sunday's loss, writes Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Pressed into action by injuries, Green Bay Packers inside linebacker D.J. Smith and Robert Francois played well against the Lions, writes Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press Gazette.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin's impressive performance was overshadowed by another loss.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie's inexperience was evident in Sunday's loss to the Raiders.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh will likely be suspended for two games.
The New York Giants are happy they re-signed versatile offensive lineman Kevin Boothe, writes Mike Garafolo of The Star-Ledger.
Philadelphia Eagles assistant coaches Marty Mornhinweg and Jim Washburn had to be separated after a heated exchange on the sidelines during Sunday's loss to the Patriots.
Washington Redskins rookie running back Roy Helu had a breakout performance in Sunday's win.
Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas shares some random thoughts on the Dallas Cowboys.
Mike Triplett of The Times-Picayune previews tonight's New Orleans Saints game against the Giants.
Critical errors extended the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' losing streak to five games.
Quarterback Matt Ryan's solid passing day and red zone efficiency keyed the Atlanta Falcons to a 24-14 win over the Vikings.
The Carolina Panthers ran for 201 yards and controlled the clock as they avoided a loss to the winless Colts.
Today's NFL birthdays: Browns guard Artis Hicks (33), Colts rookie fullback Ryan Mahaffey (24), free agent cornerback Joe Burnett (25), tight end Brad Cottam (27), defensive end Tommie Hill (26) and quarterback Brian St. Pierre (32).
Hall of Fame wide receiver Paul Warfield turns 69.
Former NFL cornerback Dale Carter (42), wide receiver Preston Dennard (56), nose tackle Jason Ferguson (37). The late Dave Duerson would have turned 51 today, while the late Ernie Ladd would have turned 73 today.
Filling in for an injured Fred Jackson, Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller was not satisfied with his performance on Sunday.
New York Jets cornerbacks shrugged off their tough day against the Bills.
The Miami Dolphins could have an easier schedule in 2012, writes Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
Home-field advantage in the AFC Playoffs is now a pursuit of the Baltimore Ravens.
Turnovers were the difference in the Pittsburgh Steelers' 13-9 win over the Chiefs on Sunday night.
The Cleveland Browns offensive struggles in the second half were punctuated by rookie Greg Little dropping a pivotal pass in the final two minutes.
Another fourth quarter comeback keeps the Cincinnati Bengals as the second wild card team in the AFC Playoffs.
Quarterback Curtis Painter was intercepted in the end zone twice in the final four minutes, keeping the Indianapolis Colts winless on the season.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck hitting Damian Williams in the back of the end zone with three minutes to play kept the team's playoff hopes alive.
Despite being benched in the fourth quarter, Jacksonville Jaguars first-round quarterback Blaine Gabbert will remain the starter.
With Matt Leinart going down with a broken collarbone, the Houston Texans will need their running game and defense even more down the stretch.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Tyler Palko's four turnovers were costly on Sunday night.
After leading the Denver Broncos to an overtime win over the Chargers, there is no doubting the competitiveness of quarterback Tim Tebow.
Oakland Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski set a franchise-record with six field goals on Sunday.
The San Diego Chargers blew several opportunities to put the Broncos away and are now 4-7 and likely done in the playoff race.
Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells is finally tapping into his potential, writes Dan Bickley of The Arizona Republic.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith and wide receiver Braylon Edwards are not on the same page, writes Matthew Barrows of The Sacramento Bee.
The Seattle Seahawks' playoff hopes are likely dashed after blowing a 10-point fourth-quarter lead against the Redskins.
St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo deserves the blame for Sunday's loss, writes Bryan Burwell of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Pressed into action by injuries, Green Bay Packers inside linebacker D.J. Smith and Robert Francois played well against the Lions, writes Kareem Copeland of the Green Bay Press Gazette.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin's impressive performance was overshadowed by another loss.
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Hanie's inexperience was evident in Sunday's loss to the Raiders.
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh will likely be suspended for two games.
The New York Giants are happy they re-signed versatile offensive lineman Kevin Boothe, writes Mike Garafolo of The Star-Ledger.
Philadelphia Eagles assistant coaches Marty Mornhinweg and Jim Washburn had to be separated after a heated exchange on the sidelines during Sunday's loss to the Patriots.
Washington Redskins rookie running back Roy Helu had a breakout performance in Sunday's win.
Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas shares some random thoughts on the Dallas Cowboys.
Mike Triplett of The Times-Picayune previews tonight's New Orleans Saints game against the Giants.
Critical errors extended the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' losing streak to five games.
Quarterback Matt Ryan's solid passing day and red zone efficiency keyed the Atlanta Falcons to a 24-14 win over the Vikings.
The Carolina Panthers ran for 201 yards and controlled the clock as they avoided a loss to the winless Colts.
Today's NFL birthdays: Browns guard Artis Hicks (33), Colts rookie fullback Ryan Mahaffey (24), free agent cornerback Joe Burnett (25), tight end Brad Cottam (27), defensive end Tommie Hill (26) and quarterback Brian St. Pierre (32).
Hall of Fame wide receiver Paul Warfield turns 69.
Former NFL cornerback Dale Carter (42), wide receiver Preston Dennard (56), nose tackle Jason Ferguson (37). The late Dave Duerson would have turned 51 today, while the late Ernie Ladd would have turned 73 today.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Colts To Sign LB Scott Lutrus Off Rams Practice Squad
The Indianapolis Colts will sign linebacker Scott Lutrus off the St. Louis Rams practice squad, Marc Lillibridge, Lutrus' agent, announced on Twitter.
Originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent out of UCONN, Lutrus had 12 tackles for the Jaguars in the preseason, but did not make their 53-man roster.
Lutrus has been on the Rams' practice squad since Week 1 and takes the roster spot created when the Colts waived rookie linebacker Adrian Moten on Saturday.
Originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent out of UCONN, Lutrus had 12 tackles for the Jaguars in the preseason, but did not make their 53-man roster.
Lutrus has been on the Rams' practice squad since Week 1 and takes the roster spot created when the Colts waived rookie linebacker Adrian Moten on Saturday.
Steelers-Chiefs Inactives
Below are the inactive lists for tonight's Pittsburgh Steelers-Kansas City Chiefs game:
Pittsburgh: QB Dennis Dixon, WR Arnaz Battle, T Jamon Meredith, DE Al Woods, NT Chris Hoke, LB Sylvester Stevenson, LB LaMarr Woodley
Kansas City: QB Kyle Orton, TE Jake O'Connell, G Ryan Lilja, DE Brandon Bair, RB Jerrell Powe, LB Demorrio Williams, S Donald Washington
Pittsburgh: QB Dennis Dixon, WR Arnaz Battle, T Jamon Meredith, DE Al Woods, NT Chris Hoke, LB Sylvester Stevenson, LB LaMarr Woodley
Kansas City: QB Kyle Orton, TE Jake O'Connell, G Ryan Lilja, DE Brandon Bair, RB Jerrell Powe, LB Demorrio Williams, S Donald Washington
Brandon Lloyd Picks Up 30th Catch With Rams; Broncos Get Rams' Fifth Round Pick In 2012
With wide receiver Brandon Lloyd catching his fourth pass on Sunday, a 16-yard touchdown pass to tie the score at 20 with 7:46 to play in the fourth quarter, the 2012 sixth-round draft choice the St. Louis Rams shipped to the Denver Broncos to acquire Lloyd in October is now a 2012 fifth-round pick.
Triggering the increase was fairly easy, as Lloyd, who caught 77 passes for 1,448 yards and 11 touchdowns in a Pro Bowl season in 2010, needed to catch just 30 passes over the final 11 games of the Rams' season.
In five games headed into Sunday, Rams quarterbacks Sam Bradford and A.J. Feeley targeted Lloyd 61 times, resulting in 26 receptions for 322 yards and three touchdowns. Lloyd had three receptions for 49 yards in the first half against the Cardinals, and his 16-yard touchdown was his first catch of the second half.
Lloyd now has 49 receptions for 670 yards and four touchdowns on the season.
Triggering the increase was fairly easy, as Lloyd, who caught 77 passes for 1,448 yards and 11 touchdowns in a Pro Bowl season in 2010, needed to catch just 30 passes over the final 11 games of the Rams' season.
In five games headed into Sunday, Rams quarterbacks Sam Bradford and A.J. Feeley targeted Lloyd 61 times, resulting in 26 receptions for 322 yards and three touchdowns. Lloyd had three receptions for 49 yards in the first half against the Cardinals, and his 16-yard touchdown was his first catch of the second half.
Lloyd now has 49 receptions for 670 yards and four touchdowns on the season.
Report: Texans Fear Matt Leinart Has Broken Collarbone
According to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com, the Houston Texans fear that starting quarterback Matt Leinart sustained a broken collarbone in the second quarter of today's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Leinart, who is starting in place of an injured Matt Schaub, was injured when he was driven to the ground by Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey. In his first start since the 2009 season, Leinart had completed 10-of-13 pass attempts for 57 yards and a 20-yard touchdown pass to backup tight end Joel Dreessen prior to his injury.
Schaub was placed on injured reserve and veteran Kellen Clemens was added to the active roster. However, Clemens is inactive today, leaving 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates to close out the game against the Jaguars, which the Texans led 20-10 at the half.
Leinart fractured his left collarbone during the 2007 season when he was the Cardinals' starting quarterback, opening the door for Kurt Warner to assume the starting job.
Leinart, who is starting in place of an injured Matt Schaub, was injured when he was driven to the ground by Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey. In his first start since the 2009 season, Leinart had completed 10-of-13 pass attempts for 57 yards and a 20-yard touchdown pass to backup tight end Joel Dreessen prior to his injury.
Schaub was placed on injured reserve and veteran Kellen Clemens was added to the active roster. However, Clemens is inactive today, leaving 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates to close out the game against the Jaguars, which the Texans led 20-10 at the half.
Leinart fractured his left collarbone during the 2007 season when he was the Cardinals' starting quarterback, opening the door for Kurt Warner to assume the starting job.
Texans QB Matt Leinart Heads To Locker Room With Shoulder Injury
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Leinart headed to the team's locker room with 1:32 to play in the first half after suffering an apparent left shoulder injury.
Leinart was injured when he was driven to the ground by Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey after an incomplete pass.
The Texans are without starter Matt Schaub for the remainder of the season and newly-signed veteran Kellen Clemens is inactive for today's game, leaving 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates as the only healthy quarterback on the roster.
Yates completed 13-of-26 pass attempts for 181 yards and an interception in four preseason games and has been the No. 3 quarterback throughout the regular season.
Leinart was injured when he was driven to the ground by Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Jeremy Mincey after an incomplete pass.
The Texans are without starter Matt Schaub for the remainder of the season and newly-signed veteran Kellen Clemens is inactive for today's game, leaving 2011 fifth-round pick T.J. Yates as the only healthy quarterback on the roster.
Yates completed 13-of-26 pass attempts for 181 yards and an interception in four preseason games and has been the No. 3 quarterback throughout the regular season.
Colts Score First Offensive Touchdown In November
With a 17-yard touchdown run against the Carolina Panthers, Indianapolis Colts running back Donald Brown has scored the team's first offensive touchdown in the month of November.
The Colts got an interception return for a touchdown in their 31-7 loss to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9 and managed just a field goal in a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 10. The Colts were off last week.
For Brown, a 2009 first-round pick out of UCONN, it was his third touchdown of the season, tying his single-season high.
The Colts got an interception return for a touchdown in their 31-7 loss to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9 and managed just a field goal in a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 10. The Colts were off last week.
For Brown, a 2009 first-round pick out of UCONN, it was his third touchdown of the season, tying his single-season high.
Newcomers Make Immediate Impact In St. Louis, Jacksonville
The St. Louis Rams signed free agent wide receiver Nick Miller off the street earlier this week when they placed Mark Clayton on injured reserve. Active in a return role, Miller returned a punt 88 yards for a touchdown to give the Rams a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.
Rams cornerback Rod Hood, active for just the fourth time since signing in late September, recorded his first interception of the season.
Meanwhile in Jacksonville, cornerback Ashton Youboty, who was signed on November 15, scooped up a fumble by Houston Texans running back Arian Foster and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown. Youboty's touchdown was the first of his career and the first defensive touchdown for the Jaguars since October 5, 2008, when cornerback Rashean Mathis scored on a 72-yard interception return.
Youboty was signed the day after the Jaguars placed Mathis on injured reserve.
Rams cornerback Rod Hood, active for just the fourth time since signing in late September, recorded his first interception of the season.
Meanwhile in Jacksonville, cornerback Ashton Youboty, who was signed on November 15, scooped up a fumble by Houston Texans running back Arian Foster and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown. Youboty's touchdown was the first of his career and the first defensive touchdown for the Jaguars since October 5, 2008, when cornerback Rashean Mathis scored on a 72-yard interception return.
Youboty was signed the day after the Jaguars placed Mathis on injured reserve.
Browns RB Montario Hardesty Will Play As Needed
Cleveland Browns running back Montario Hardesty is active for today's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, but will only play "as needed" after his calf injury acted up during pregame warm-ups.
Hardesty, who has 244 rushing yards on the season, has missed much of the last four weeks with his calf injury.
Running back Peyton Hillis, who has also missed the last five weeks with a hamstring injury, is also active and will start against a Bengals defense that ranks third against the run this season.
Hardesty, who has 244 rushing yards on the season, has missed much of the last four weeks with his calf injury.
Running back Peyton Hillis, who has also missed the last five weeks with a hamstring injury, is also active and will start against a Bengals defense that ranks third against the run this season.
Mystery Team 'Very Interested' In Terrell Owens
Drew Rosenhaus, the agent for free agent wide receiver Terrell Owens, tells ESPN's Adam Schefter that there is a team that is "very interested" in signing Owens.
Rosenhaus declined to name the team that was interested in his client. (The Atlantis Snuffleupaguses of the Narnia Football League?)
Owens, who turns 38 a week from next Wednesday, tore his ACL during the lockout and worked out for NFL Network and ESPN cameras last month in Calabasas, California. Owens ranks fifth all-time with 1,078 receptions, and his 15,934 receiving yards and 153 receiving touchdowns rank second.
Last season, Owens caught 72 passes for 983 yards and nine touchdowns in 14 games with the Cincinnati Bengals, his third team in three years. Over his 15-year career with the San Francisco 49ers (1996-2003), Philadelphia Eagles (2004-05), Dallas Cowboys (2006-08), Buffalo Bills (2009), and Bengals (2010), Owens has been named to six Pro Bowls and is a five-time first-team All-Pro selection.
Rosenhaus declined to name the team that was interested in his client. (The Atlantis Snuffleupaguses of the Narnia Football League?)
Owens, who turns 38 a week from next Wednesday, tore his ACL during the lockout and worked out for NFL Network and ESPN cameras last month in Calabasas, California. Owens ranks fifth all-time with 1,078 receptions, and his 15,934 receiving yards and 153 receiving touchdowns rank second.
Last season, Owens caught 72 passes for 983 yards and nine touchdowns in 14 games with the Cincinnati Bengals, his third team in three years. Over his 15-year career with the San Francisco 49ers (1996-2003), Philadelphia Eagles (2004-05), Dallas Cowboys (2006-08), Buffalo Bills (2009), and Bengals (2010), Owens has been named to six Pro Bowls and is a five-time first-team All-Pro selection.
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