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Published Oct. 5, 2010 4:20 p.m. ET

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October 2 News and Notes

Redskins promote WR; cut RB — 6:33 p.m.

The Washington Redskins have signed WR Brandon Banks off the practice squad. To make room for Banks on their 53-man roster, the Redskins waived undrafted free-agent rookie RB Keiland Williams.
Banks (5-7, 155) originally signed with the Redskins as a college free agent and was inactive for the first two regular season games. He was waived on Sept. 25 and signed to the practice squad on Sept. 27.

The move to let go Williams is a small surprise since some personnel evaluators believed he would become the team’s third down back this season.

— Adam Caplan

Chargers make moves — 6:31 p.m.

The San Diego Chargers signed rookie FB/LB Kion Wilson from their practice squad. To make room for Wilson on the 53-man roster, the Chargers waived CB Dante Hughes.

Wilson (6-0, 240) joined the team as an undrafted rookie free agent in May.

The Chargers really don’t need Wilson to play fullback because they already have one, but they have a few injuries at linebacker to deal with, so he could see some action on the defensive side of the ball on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.

— Adam Caplan

Patriots to be without RB — 6:26 p.m.

New England Patriots RB Fred Taylor (toe) didn’t practice all week and has been ruled out of Monday night’s game at the Miami Dolphins.

With Taylor out, look for RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis to get the start. Green-Ellis, who was signed as an undrafted free-agent in 2008, has worked his way up the depth chart in recent weeks.

Green-Ellis is known as a hard-nosed inside runner who plays with good pad level.

— Adam Caplan

Steelers QB Dixon to miss rest of the season — 4:17 p.m.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed quarterback Dennis Dixon on the injured reserve list with a meniscus tear in his left knee, ending his season.

Dixon started the Steelers' first two games in place of the suspended Ben Roethlisberger. He was injured on a run during the first quarter of a 19-11 victory at Tennessee on Sept. 19. Charlie Batch took over and Dixon had surgery later in the week.

The move Saturday allows the Steelers to activate defensive lineman Steve McLendon for Sunday's game against Baltimore.

With Dixon unable to play until next season, the Steelers apparently will keep Batch and Byron Leftwich as backups when Roethlisberger's suspension ends Monday.

— The Associated Press

Miami DE Odrick out of Monday night's game — 4:12 p.m.

Miami Dolphins defensive end Jared Odrick and guard John Jerry have been ruled out of Monday night's game against the New England Patriots.

Linebacker Channing Crowder is listed as doubtful. He was limited in practice Saturday and has yet to play this season because of a groin injury.

Odrick (Ah'-drick) has been sidelined since the season opener because of a hairline fracture in his right leg. Jerry will miss his second consecutive game because of an illness. Neither practiced this week, but both rode exercise bikes on the side.

Tackle Jake Long (knee) and reserve cornerback Nolan Carroll (hand) are listed as probable. Both took part in the full practice Saturday.

— The Associated Press

Saints sign RB— 12:45 p.m.

The New Orleans Saints have signed RB DeShawn Wynn off their practice squad, a source confirmed.

New Orleans already had four running backs on their 53-man roster, but two of them, Pierre Thomas (ankle) and Reggie Bush (leg), are dealing with injuries. Bush has already been ruled out and Thomas’ status is considered a game-time decision.

If Thomas can’t play on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, the coaches will turn to undrafted free-agent RB Chris Ivory and veteran RB Ladell Betts to handle the rushing load. Betts is likely to see a role on third downs because he’s better in pass protection than Ivory.

Wynn, who was selected in the seventh-round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers, was released by the Saints on Sept. 22, but re-signed earlier this week

— Adam Caplan

Giants hurting on the DL — 12:17 p.m.

New York Giants DE/OLB Mathias Kiwanuka started feeling stiffness in his neck late this week. Because of that, he has been listed as out on the team’s injury report for Sunday night’s game against the Chicago Bears. In fact, tests taken on his neck revealed that he has a bulging cervical disc, the team said.

The fifth-year pro will have to avoid contact with his head and neck, but the timetable for recovery isn’t known. It’s not even certain whether he will be able to return this season based on the injury. Kiwanuka was still able to practice without limitations all week, but he had an MRI Thursday night. After Friday’s practice, he had a CAT scan taken. The results showed that bulging disc.

Starting DE Osi Umenyiora (knee-questionable) is expected to be in the lineup against Chicago, but he had knee swelling late this week.

The Giants may have to use rookie DE Jason Pierre-Paul and veteran DE Dave Tollefson more in this game because depth could be an issue.

— Adam Caplan

October 1 News and Notes

49ers safety wants release — 9:11 p.m.

According to the Sacramento Bee, San Francisco 49ers veteran SS Michael Lewis has asked to be released. Lewis did not practice Friday and will not travel with the team to Atlanta this weekend for Sunday’s game against the Falcons.

Lewis became upset when reports surfaced this week that his role would be reduced in favor of rookie S Taylor Mays.

Lewis was signed through 2012, but the final two years of his contract were taken off, and his base salary of $4.105 million was cut to $1.7 million before training camp started.

— Adam Caplan

Rice likely to play on Sunday — 9:07 p.m.

Baltimore Ravens starting RB Ray Rice (bruised knee-questionable) saw limited practice time for the second straight day on Friday. Rice looked good in the last two days of practice, so barring a setback, he should be in the lineup Sunday at the divisional rival Pittsburgh Steelers.

The team will be without starting ORT Jared Gaither (back) for the straight game. A source familiar with his injury believes Gaither is a long shot to play this season. Fourth-year OT Marshal Yanda will start again for Gaither.

For the Steelers, starting RG Trai Essex (ankle) will miss his second straight game. As noted in this space last week, a source familiar with his injury said Essex could miss three to four weeks of work. Third-year OL Doug Legursky will start again for Essex. Essex has not practiced since he was injured over two weeks ago.

— Adam Caplan

Browns sign DT — 9:00 p.m.

The Cleveland Browns signed DT Boo Robinson to the practice squad.

Originally signed by Philadelphia as an undrafted free-agent on May 18, Robinson spent training camp with the Eagles before being waived on Sept. 3.

A four-year letterman at Wake Forest University (2006-09), Robinson saw action in 52 games, totaling 145 tackles, 12.5 sacks and two interceptions.

Robinson will take up the final spot on Cleveland’s eight-man practice squad.

— Adam Caplan

Seahawks place LB Hill on injured reserve — 5:21 p.m.

The Seattle Seahawks placed linebacker Leroy Hill on injured reserve Friday, ending his season.

Hill played in one game for the Seahawks this season, only appearing on special teams in a Week 2 loss to the Denver Broncos.

Hill injured his right Achilles' tendon early in the game and did not return. Pete Carroll said Friday that Hill will require surgery.

After a tumultuous offseason, Hill agreed to a restructured contract that took the final four years off the deal he signed before the 2009 season and made him a free agent after this season. Hill was suspended for the team's season opener for a violation of the league's personal conduct policy following his arrest in Georgia on a marijuana possession charge.

— The Associated Press

NFL fines Ravens' Oher and Zbikowksi $5K each — 5:19 p.m.

Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Michael Oher and safety Tom Zbikowski have each been fined $5,000 by the NFL for their actions in Sunday's game against Cleveland.

The NFL announced the fines Friday.

Oher's fine stems from punching Browns defensive end Robaire Smith. Oher hit Smith after Smith shoved Baltimore tight end Todd Heap following a whistle that had stopped play for a false start.

Oher says he was defending his teammate and will not appeal the fine.

Zbikowski tackled Browns running back Peyton Hillis out of bounds at the end of a 48-yard run. The play drew a penalty for unnecessary roughness.

— The Associated Press

Texans TE Daniels a game-time decision — 5:10 p.m.

Texans coach Gary Kubiak said Friday that tight end Owen Daniels’ status for Sunday is in doubt. Daniels is a game-time decision due to an issue with his left hamstring. Daniels missed most of the 2009 season with a severe injury to the right knee.

Daniels, however, said there’s a good chance he will play Sunday in Oakland against the Raiders.

“My knee’s fine. It’s just a little tweak,” Daniels said Friday after practice. “I should be fine. It’s (the hamstring) been better the last couple of days. I don’t see myself not playing.”

Read the entire story

— FOX Sports Houston

Giants' Kiwanuka to miss game against Chicago — 5:01 p.m.

New York Giants defensive lineman Mathias Kiwanuka will not play in Sunday night's game against the Chicago Bears because of a bulging disc.

The Giants announced Friday that Kiwanuka has a bulging cervical disc, but had no immediate report on how long the injury might sideline him. Kiwanuka has been the team's best defensive player this season and leads the Giants with three sacks.

In other Giants injury news, the team said Pro Bowl center Shaun O'Hara will miss his second straight game with ankle and Achilles' tendon issues. And linebacker Keith Bulluck has been listed as doubtful with a turf toe.

— The Associated Press

Rams RB Jackson, S Atogwe game-day decision — 4: 14 p.m.

The availability of St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson and safety Oshiomogho Atogwe against Seattle will be a game-day decision.

Both saw limited work Friday in practice. Jackson is nursing a groin injury and Atogwe bruised his thigh in last week's win over Washington. Both did not practice either Wednesday or Thursday.

Coach Steve Spagnuolo says the team is going day by day with each player.

Safety Craig Dahl is back from a concussion he got against Oakland two weeks ago. He is clear to play against the Seahawks. Defensive tackle Clifton Ryan will miss his third game because of migraine headaches.

— The Associated Press

Titans starting CB out for Sunday's game — 3:45 p.m.

Tennessee Titans starting right cornerback Jason McCourty will not play in Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos.

McCourty, listed as out on Friday, underwent surgery Tuesday morning after he broke his forearm in last Sunday's 29-10 victory over the New York Giants.

Rookie fourth-round pick Alterraun Verner will start in McCourty's place.

— The Associated Press

Bears rule out two starters — 3:41 p.m.

The Chicago Bears have ruled out left tackle Chris Williams and safety Major Wright for the second straight game because of hamstring injuries.

The Bears visit the New York Giants on Sunday. Both players were hurt in Chicago's win against Dallas two weeks ago.

— The Associated Press

Broncos RB Moreno inactive for Sunday — 3:29 p.m.

Chaos has become the new normal for the Denver Broncos' running game.

Knowshon Moreno is out again after pulling his left hamstring during practice Thursday and Correll Buckhalter is expected to start in his place when the Broncos (1-1) face the Colts on Sunday.

''You've just got to keep on moving on,'' quarterback Kyle Orton said about the latest injury news. ''There's nothing you can do or say about it. We've been dealing with this stuff all year. And whoever's in the huddle, we expect them to perform.''

Read the entire story

— The Associated Press

Bills sign guard — 2:46 p.m.

The Buffalo Bills have signed free-agent G Mansfield Wrotto to their practice squad. To make room for Wrotto on the practice squad, the Bills released TE Rob Myers.

Wrotto joins the Bills after being waived by Seattle on Sept. 29. The offensive lineman was originally selected in the fourth-round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Seahawks. Wrotto played in college for Bills head coach Chan Gailey.

Wrotto has played in 16 games, making five starts with Seattle.

— Adam Caplan

Bills without top CB — 2:21 p.m.

Buffalo Bills starting CB Terrence McGee (knee) was added to the injury after not practicing Thursday. He missed practice again Friday and has been listed as out for Sunday’s home game against the New York Jets.

The Bills will also be without defensive starters such as NT Marcus Stroud (ankle) and ILB Andra Davis (shoulder). The Bills, however, will get back starting ILB Paul Posluszny (knee-probable) after a two-game absence.

The Jets will be without starting CB Darrelle Revis (hamstring).

— Adam Caplan

Eagles starting RG iffy — 2:10 p.m.

Philadelphia Eagles starting RG Nick Cole (knee-questionable) missed his second practice in a row on Friday. Cole could not finish last week’s game at the Jacksonville Jaguars and was replaced by backup G Reggie Wells, who was recently acquired from the Arizona Cardinals.

However, if Cole can’t play on Sunday at home against the Washington Redskins, fifth-year G Max Jean-Gilles would start.

— Adam Caplan

Bills reach injury settlement with LB Mitchell — 12:37 p.m.

The Buffalo Bills released Kawika Mitchell on Friday after coming to an injury settlement with the veteran linebacker.

Mitchell was placed on injured reserve prior to the Bills' season opener against Miami after he hurt his foot in practice.

The seven-year pro was coming back from a right knee injury that forced him to miss the final 11 games last season after he went on injured reserve.

— The Associated Press

Browns' Delhomme status unknown for Sunday — 12:34 p.m.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Jake Delhomme is practicing for the second straight day, but it's still not certain if he'll play Sunday against Cincinnati.

Delhomme has been sidelined since spraining his right ankle during Cleveland's season opener on Sept. 12 at Tampa Bay. He was inactive the past two weeks and practiced for the first time on Thursday.

He was again favoring his ankle on Friday during the 30 minutes of practice open to reporters. He struggled on a few rollouts and was tentative while planting his right foot on some throws.

Browns coach Eric Mangini said he will wait to see how Delhomme's ankle responds following a second practice before making a decision on who will start against the Bengals. Backup Seneca Wallace has started Cleveland's past two games.

— The Associated Press

Glazer: A pair of $10K fines handed out — 11:42 a.m.

The NFL has fined Chiefs DL Shaun Smith $10,000 for grabbing 49ers tackle Anthony Davis in the groin during their game Sunday.

The league also fined Bills WR Steve Johnson $10,000 for his "shotgun" celebration after scoring a TD against the Patriots.

— Jay Glazer

Texans announce new tailgating policy — 11:35 a.m.

The Houston Texans announced a new policy related to game day access in the Reliant Park parking lots. Beginning with the team’s next home game against the New York Giants on October 10, the Texans and Reliant Park will require all fans who wish to enter the Reliant Park grounds to possess a game ticket or other valid team issued credential.

— FOX Sports Houston

To read the rest of the story, click here.

Ravens work out punter — 10:44 a.m.

In a growing trend, the Baltimore Ravens worked out a left-footed punter this week.

Glenn Pakulak, who has worked out for over a dozen teams over the past two seasons, worked out for Baltimore on Thursday.

The likely reason why Baltimore worked out Pakulak is because they will face a left-footed punter on Sunday when they face the Pittsburgh Steelers, Daniel Sepulveda.

In almost every instance, Pakulak’s workouts have come when the team that he worked out for was going to face a left-footed punter that week.

— Adam Caplan

Giants sign CB to practice squad — 10:44 a.m.

The New York Giants have signed free-agent CB Michael Coe to their practice squad.

Coe, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, is back with the Giants for the second time. He spent time with New York’s practice squad last season.

The defensive back also spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad in 2009. Jackson was waived by Jacksonville earlier this week.

— Adam Caplan

Buccaneers work out three players — 10:44 a.m.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers worked out three defensive players during their bye this week.

Prior to signing with Tampa Bay’s practice squad, second-year LB J.D. Folsom worked out for the team earlier this week.

Second-year LB Mortty Ivy and undrafted free agent CB Donovan Warren also worked out for Tampa Bay.

— Adam Caplan

Lions sign veteran CB — 8:55 a.m.

The Detroit Lions have signed CB Dante Wesley. To make room for the veteran defensive back, the Lions waived rookie S Randy Phillips.

Because the Lions now have six cornerbacks on their 53-man roster, it’s likely Wesley will only see time on special teams.

Wesley, 31, was selected in the fourth-round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. He has also played for the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots in his eight seasons.

— Adam Caplan

Chiefs work out veteram LBs — 8:55 a.m.

The Kansas City Chiefs, perhaps looking for depth on defense, worked out three free-agent linebackers during their bye this week.

Two veterans, ILBs Larry Izzo and Mark Simoneau, worked out late this week for the Chiefs. Izzo is essentially a special teams player. Simoneau would fit in as a fourth linebacker.

Rookie Chris McCoy, who was selected in the seventh-round of the NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, also worked out for Kansas City late this week. McCoy has excellent size (6-3, 260) for an inside linebacker.

— Adam Caplan

September 30 News and Notes

Mathews ready to roll — 10:47 p.m.

San Diego Chargers rookie running back Ryan Mathews practiced for the second consecutive day on Thursday and was removed from the injury report. Mathews started running Monday and hasn’t missed a beat since. He’s expected to be in the lineup when the Chargers host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

The Chargers will also get starting inside linebacker Stephen Cooper (knee) back from a two-game absence. He was removed from the injury report after practicing for the second straight day on Thursday.

— Adam Caplan

Garcon still not practicing — 10:44 p.m.

Indianapolis Colts starting wide receiver Pierre Garcon (hamstring) has missed four straight practices. If Garcon doesn’t practice Friday, look for Austin Collie to get his second straight start for Garcon.

The Colts only dressed three receivers during last week’s win at the Denver Broncos. If Garcon is out again, undrafted rookie Blair White would handle the No. 3 role.

— Adam Caplan

Seahawks part ways with veteran guard — 6:22 p.m.

In a small surprise, the Seattle Seahawks released veteran G Chester Pitts. The interior lineman was coming off of serious knee surgery, but Seattle was hopeful of getting him into the lineup soon.

Pitts, 31, signed a one-year deal with Seattle on Jul. 29. Pitts was one of the most durable offensive lineman over a seven-year period (2002-2008) with the Houston Texans and started 112 straight games. However, he suffered a major knee injury during his second game in 2009 and missed the rest of the season.

In addition, the Seahawks re-signed G Mike Gibson to the practice squad. To make room for him, the team released RB Chris Henry.

— Adam Caplan

Brees likely to wear knee brace Sunday — 5:45 p.m.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees will “more than likely” wear a brace on his sore left knee Sunday against the Carolina Panthers in the Superdome.

Brees is not on the injury report filed by the Saints this week to the NFL since he did not leave last week’s 27-24 overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons and took all the reps in practice both Wednesday and Thursday.

Brees has not worn a knee brace in a game in 14 years, since he was a senior at Westlake High School in Austin, Texas.

“I’m very confident that by game day it will be fine,” Brees said Wednesday. “It’s just a little sore now.” Full story ...

— FOXSports Southwest

Parcells says he's not ready to retire — 5:02 p.m.

Even though Bill Parcells has given up control of the Miami Dolphins, he says retirement can wait.

That could be a signal to NFL teams he's in the market for a new job. Or not.

Parcells said Thursday he isn't sure what he wants to do after leaving the Dolphins, but he expects to find something to keep him busy.

''I'm not a `sit-around-the-fireplace' guy,'' Parcells said during a conference call. ''I don't know. I'm not certain about it. We'll see what happens when the time comes, but I know I want to do something, even if it's not day-to-day or something like that.

''I know I want to do something. I don't like sitting around. I like to get up and get out and go do something. So we'll figure it out when the time comes.''

The public comments were the first by Parcells since he turned the Dolphins' football operation over to general manager Jeff Ireland three weeks ago. Parcells remains as a consultant.

— Associated Press

Packers rookie nailed with fine for hit on Bears' Cutler — 4:41 p.m.

Green Bay Packers linebacker Frank Zombo says he was fined $7,500 by the NFL for his hit on Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler on Monday night.

Zombo was penalized for roughing the passer after making contact with Cutler's helmet on the hit in the fourth quarter of a loss to the Bears. The penalty wiped out an interception by linebacker Nick Barnett and helped the Bears drive for a game-tying field goal.

Zombo said Thursday that he didn't disagree with the penalty, which he said was the result of aggressive play. Zombo is expected to start Sunday's game against Detroit.

As for the fine, he says, ''It's going to hurt.'' Zombo is an undrafted free agent making $320,000 this season.

— Associated Press

Rice optimistic about playing Sunday — 4:28 p.m.

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice said Thursday that his bruised right knee shouldn't keep him from playing Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Rice hurt his knee in the fourth quarter of last Sunday's 24-17 win over the Cleveland Browns. An MRI on Monday revealed no ligament or cartilage damage.

"Once you hear the good news of nothing being torn and it's just a bruise, I felt great," he said Thursday. "It's just getting better each day. I'm just going out there working because I know it's just a bruise. I got a second opinion, got everything I needed to do. Once you find out it's just a bruise, you've got new life again."

Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain will get the brunt of the carries if Rice can't play. Though Rice has no intention of sitting out Baltimore's showdown against the unbeaten Steelers, who lead the AFC North.

"We have a great corps of backs, but I'm sure I'll be ready to play," Rice said.

— Associated Press

Revis out for Sunday — 4:22 p.m.

Darrelle Revis will miss the New York Jets' game at Buffalo on Sunday, sitting out a second straight game while he recovers from a strained left hamstring. Full story

Source: Jets get pass-rushing specialist — 1:54 p.m.

The Baltimore Ravens released veteran defensive end Trevor Pryce on Wednesday. Less than 24 hours later, the veteran has found a new home. Pryce agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Jets, a source confirmed. Full story

Dolphins add two players — 1:38 p.m.

The Miami Dolphins have signed guard Ray Feinga. Feinga — who's 6-foot-4, 337 pounds — finished the 2009 season as a member of Miami’s practice squad and was re-signed on Jan. 5. He was waived by the Dolphins on July 30, re-signed on Aug. 12 and was waived again on Sept. 4 before joining the team’s practice squad.

Feinga played a lot in college, starting 35 games at BYU . Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the St. Louis Rams in 2009, he has also spent time in 2009 with the San Diego Chargers during training camp.

In addition, the Dolphins signed free-agent wide receiver Brooks Foster to their practice squad, who worked out for the team earlier this week.

Foster was selected in the fifth-round of the 2009 draft by the Rams.

— Adam Caplan

Eagles sign CB — 1:23 p.m.

The Philadelphia Eagles have signed rookie cornerback Jamar Wall to the practice squad and released safety Jamar Adams from the practice squad.

The 5-foot-10, 202 pound Wall was originally a sixth-round draft choice of the Dallas Cowboys, but was waived prior to the start of the season. He was claimed by the Houston Texans on Sept. 5 and played in the season opener, makins one special teams tackle. He was waived by Houston on Sept. 29.

The 22-year-old Wall played collegiately at Texas Tech, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors following the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

A source said Wall has good football instincts and toughness. He also has better than average speed for a defensive back of his size. What also interested Philadelphia is that he can play safety or cornerback. Wall is the only defensive back on Philadelphia’s practice squad.

— Adam Caplan

Patriots add RB to roster — 1:21 p.m.

With veteran Fred Taylor dealing with a toe injury, the New England Patriots decided to sign running back Thomas Clayton off their practice squad on Thursday. To make from for Clayton, the Patriots released offensive lineman Quinn Ojinnaka.

Clayton was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth-round of the 2007 draft out of Kansas State. He spent 2007 and most of 2008 on the practice squad before being signed to the active roster for the final two games of 2008. He spent the next season on injured reserve after suffering a torn ACL during the preseason. Clayton — who's 5-foot-11 222 pounds — is known in scouting circles for his speed.

Ojinnaka was acquired by New England in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons for undisclosed draft considerations on Aug. 23. He originally joined Atlanta as a fifth-round draft pick out of Syracuse in 2006.

— Adam Caplan

Browns' Delhomme cleared to practice — 11:37 a.m.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Jake Delhomme has been cleared to practice Thursday after missing the past two games with a sprained right ankle.

Coach Eric Mangini said as long as there are no setbacks, the 35-year-old will start on Sunday at home against the Cincinnati Bengals. Delhomme has been inactive the past two weeks after injuring his ankle in Cleveland's season opener at Tampa Bay. It was his debut with the Browns.

''He's our starter,'' Mangini said. ''If he's ready to start, he'll start.''

Mangini said Delhomme will be limited in practice on Thursday.

Backup Seneca Wallace filled in for Delhomme in losses to Kansas City and Baltimore. Mangini likes what Wallace brings to the Browns, but he feels Delhomme, who signed as a free agent with Cleveland in March, gives his team the best chance to win.

Delhomme worked out in the club's indoor facility on Wednesday with trainers.

— Associated Press

Easy come, easy go in Jacksonville — 10:37 a.m.

Just a few days after signing him, the Jacksonville Jaguars have released QB Keith Null from their practice squad.

Bowen opened the season on the club’s practice squad before he was promoted to the active roster on Sept. 18. He played in the last two games, mainly on special teams.

The Jaguars added QB Trent Edwards off waivers this week, but do not have a quarterback now on their practice squad.

The feeling around the NFL is that if starting QB David Garrard continues to struggle, the coaches will eventually turn to Edwards to help revive the offense.

— Adam Caplan

Bengals kicker earns award — 10:16 a.m.

Bengals K Mike Nugent was named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Month by the NFL today.
Nugent went 8-for-8 on field-goal attempts during the Bengals’ three September games, including FGs of 54 and 50 yards. Among NFL kickers who are yet to miss a FG try, Nugent has the most total FGs by three.

On Sept. 19 vs. Baltimore, Nugent made five FGs to score all of Cincinnati’s points in a 15-10 win. It is the most FGs in a game this season. That performance, along with three touchbacks on kickoffs, earned Nugent an AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award.

Nugent is also perfect (5-for-5) on PATs for the season and has reached the end zone on nine of his 16 kickoffs, with five going for touchbacks.

The last Bengal to win a Player of the Month award was DE Antwan Odom, in September of last year. The last Bengal to win an AFC Special Teams Player of the Month award was KOR Brandon Bennett in November 2002.

Nugent was selected in the 2005 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. After struggling with his accuracy over his three years with the Jets, Nugent moved on and saw time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Arizona Cardinals. He signed a two-year, $1.27 million deal with the Bengals in April. The contract does not include a signing bonus.

— Adam Caplan

Jenkins nearing a return — 9:02 a.m.

The Atlanta Falcons have been without starting WR Michael Jenkins since he suffered a shoulder injury during a training camp practice on Aug. 6.

The seventh-year pro started limited practicing over the last week, so it’s possible that he’ll be able to play in Sunday’s home game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Third-year WR Harry Douglas has been filling for Jenkins. Douglas is really a slot receiver, so getting back an outside receiver such as Jenkins should really help solidify their passing game.

— Adam Caplan

September 29 News and Notes

Colts bring back LB — 8:32 p.m.

The Indianapolis Colts signed linebacker Tyjuan Hagler.

Hagler, who was selected in the fifth-round of the 2005 draft by the Colts, was released by the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 4. He recently worked out for the Tennessee Titans.

Hagler is capable of playing both outside linebacker positions and started 17 games in his four-plus seasons with the team.

Starting weakside linebacker Clint Session (hamstring) missed two games and rookie Kavell Connor (broken foot) could miss several games, so Hagler likely will play Sunday at the Jacksonville Jaguars.

In addition, the team waived backup tight end Gijon Robinson, and signed fullback Matt Clapp and wide receiver Chris Brooks to the practice squad.

— Adam Caplan

Texans sign CB — 8:25 p.m.

As noted previously, the Houston Texans waived rookie cornerbackJamar Wall. To replace him, the Texans signed veteran cornerback Karl Paymah.

Paymah was one of six defensive backs to work out for the Texans earlier this week.

The Texans now have six cornerbacks on their roster.

Paymah, who was selected in the third-round of the 2005 draft by the Denver Broncos, was released by the San Francisco 49ers on Sept. 4.

— Adam Caplan

Cards' Breaston has knee surgery — 6:09 p.m.

Arizona Cardinals receiver Steve Breaston will miss at least one game after having arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.

The fourth-year player originally hurt his knee against Atlanta last week and tried to play through the injury in Sunday's 24-23 win over Oakland. Test results showed torn cartilage, which Breaston had repaired on Tuesday.

Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt said Wednesday that he's hopeful Breaston will be ready for Arizona's Oct. 10 game against New Orleans, though he might not be ready until after the bye week against Seattle on Oct. 24.

With Early Doucet already out with a groin injury, that leaves Larry Fitzgerald as the only receiver who's seen significant playing time.

— Associated Press

Darrelle Revis very questionable for Sunday — 5:33 p.m.

It might be another week before Darrelle Revis plays again for the New York Jets.

The All-Pro cornerback did not practice Wednesday, spending part of the session on a stationary bike and also working with a trainer on the side. Revis is recovering from a strained left hamstring, and his availability for the team's game at Buffalo on Sunday remains uncertain.

''He's still questionable there,'' coach Rex Ryan said. ''But, I don't want to rule him out yet ... because I'd hate to be fined by the league if he did play.''

Ryan has said the team wants Revis to be completely healed before he takes the field again. Revis was injured in the first half of New York's win over New England in Week 1.

If Revis does not play, Ryan said there's a chance Drew Coleman could get the start over a struggling rookie Kyle Wilson opposite Antonio Cromartie.

Meanwhile, linebacker Calvin Pace was on the practice field Wednesday for the first time since breaking his right foot in the preseason, but didn't participate in team drills. By the time the half-hour window the media are allowed to watch was over, Pace was working with a trainer with his jersey off.

— Associated Press

Rams' Steven Jackson day to day — 5:30 p.m.

Rams running back Steven Jackson reported on his Twitter feed that his groin strain was feeling better after acupuncture treatment, but he's not yet ready to practice.

The two-time Pro Bowler was relegated to off-field exercises Wednesday. Coach Steve Spagnuolo said Jackson would be day to day and that the team would not try to push it.

Chauncey Washington, signed off the Jets' practice squad Tuesday night, could be pressed into duty this week against the Seattle Seahawks. But Spagnuolo said it was more likely that Washington would help first on special teams where the Rams (1-2) have been hit hard by injuries.

If Jackson can't go, unsung Kenneth Darby would likely get his first NFL start. Darby has been an infrequent contributor since signing with the Rams in 2008.

— Associated Press

Ray Rice misses practice yet again — 4:18 p.m.

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice missed practice because of a bruised right knee.

His absence Wednesday left open the possibility that Willis McGahee will start this week's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

McGahee says he's "up for the challenge," expects Rice to play.

Rice walked in the locker room Wednesday without a noticeable limp, but the Ravens would not let him talk to the media.

Although McGahee hasn't started a game since last October, he's put up some impressive numbers as Rice's backup, scoring 14 touchdowns last year and averaged five yards a carry.

Regardless of who starts, the Ravens (2-1) should have their hands full against the unbeaten Steelers (3-0) in this AFC North showdown.

— Associated Press

Packers re-sign OT — 3:44 p.m.

The Green Bay Packers have re-signed undrafted rookie OT Chris Campbell to the practice squad.

Campbell — who's 6-foot-5, 328 pounds, was on Green Bay’s practice squad for the first two games this season. He played in all four preseason contests before being waived in the final roster cutdown Sept. 4.

Campbell drew interest from at least a half dozen teams prior to the draft, so he has the upside to be a solid backup left tackle.

— Adam Caplan

Saints make Carney signing official — 2:45 p.m.

As first reported by FOXSports.com, the New Orleans Saints signed 46-year-old free agent kicker John Carney. On Wednesday, the team announced the move. The team waived WR Adrian Arrington to make room for Carney on the 53-man roster.

In addition, the Saints made two practice squad changes; OT Jermey Parnell was signed and OL Jacob Bender was released.

Elsewhere, RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. The team wants to see what his availability is for this week’s game at home against the Carolina Panthers before making a decision to add another running back to the active roster. RB Reggie Bush (leg) will not be able to play.

— Adam Caplan

Bills' Kelsay signs $24M extension — 2:24 p.m.

Buffalo Bills veteran linebacker Chris Kelsay has signed a four-year contract extension worth about $24 million that locks him up through the 2014 season.

Kelsay revealed on Wednesday that he signed the extension a day earlier, after the team approached him about three weeks ago. Buffalo's 2003 second-round draft pick, Kelsay is a defensive captain. He is second, behind punter Brian Moorman, as the current team's longest-serving player.

Kelsay, who was entering the final year of the original contract, is a six-year starter at defensive end. However, he moved to outside linebacker as Buffalo made the switch to a 3-4 defensive system this offseason. Through three games, he ranks second on the team with 19 tackles.

— Associated Press

Jets shuffle the deck on practice squad — 1:23 p.m.

With two openings left on their practice squad, the New York Jets have made a few additions.

The team signed running back Xavier Omon and guard Chad Rinehart. Both players worked out for the team along with running backs Ian Johnson and Pat Paschall, and cornerback Richard Taylor.

Omon, 25, was originally selected in the sixth-round of the 2008 draft by the Buffalo Bills, also spent time with the Seattle Seahawks practice squad last season. Omon, who has good size, is known in scouting circles for his inside running.

Rinehart, 25, was originally selected in the third-round of the 2008 draft by the Washington Redskins. He started four games last season with Washington.

— Adam Caplan

Report: Jags WR pistol-whipped in attack — 1:47 p.m.

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Kassim Osgood was pistol-whipped in an attack when the ex-boyfriend of a 19-year-old woman he was visiting confronted them, according to a report on the Florida Times-Union’s website. Full story

Redskins work out receivers and punters — 1:21 p.m.

The Washington Redskins have issues at wide receiver — that’s not a secret. With that being the case, they worked out several receivers this week.

Veterans Reggie Brown and Demetrius Williams, along with Keenan Burton worked out for Washington on Tuesday.

Brown has extensive experience in the West Coast offense, but with his former team playing the Redskins this week, it’s possible Washington wanted to talk to Brown about the Philadelphia Eagles offense.

In addition, the Redskins worked out punters Jeremy Kapinos, Sam Paulescu and Hunter Smith, along with safety Aston Cobb.

Punter Josh Bidwell, who suffered a hip injury in pregame warm-ups prior to last week’s game at the St. Louis Rams, is questionable for Sunday's game. A source said the Redskins were supposed to make a decision on signing a punter or going with Bidwell by Thursday.

— Adam Caplan

Patriots add to depth on offensive line — 1:04 p.m.

The New England Patriots signed G Rich Ohrnberger off their practice squad Thursday.

Ohrnberger (6-2, 300) was drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Penn State University. As a rookie last season, he played in three games and was inactive for 13 games and the postseason game vs. Baltimore (1/10). He was waived by the Patriots on Sept. 4 and signed to the practice squad on Sept. 6.

In addition, the Patriots signed OL Thomas Austin and OT Steve Maneri to the practice squad.

Austin (6-4, 300) was originally signed by the Minnesota Vikings this year as an undrafted free-agent as a rookie free agent. He was waived by Minnesota on Sept. 4. Austin fits in mostly at guard.

Maneri (6-6, 290) spent the first three weeks of the 2010 season on the 53-man roster of New England after being claimed off waivers from Houston on Sept. 5. He was waived by the Patriots on Sept. 27. Maneri originally signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free-agent out of Temple University. Maneri was inactive for the first three games of the season for the Patriots.

— Adam Caplan

Lions still looking at wideouts — 1:01 p.m.

The Detroit Lions, perhaps still evaluating their receiver position, worked out five receivers so far this week.

As first reported by FOXSports.com, former Tampa Bay Buccaneers second-round pick Dexter Jackson worked out for Detroit on Tuesday. Jackson, who worked out for the Cincinnati Bengals last week, ran a 40-yard dash time in the 4.3’s for the Bengals.

Former Minnesota Vikings first-round pick Troy Williamson is part of the group of four other receivers to work out for the Lions which includes Damond Berry, Eron Riley, and Todd Watkins.

— Adam Caplan

Jahvid Best misses Lions' practice — 12:46 p.m.

The Lions began the practice week for Sunday’s game at Green Bay with five starters and a key backup missing from practice because of injuries.

The Lions are 0-3 and trying to break a 19-game road losing streak to the Packers that began in 1992. The Packers are 1-2.

Included in those who did not participate in Wednesday’s drills were quarterback Matthew Stafford and safety Louis Delmas. Neither was expected to practice.

Also out of practice in the period the media were allowed to watch were running back Jahvid Best (toe), wide receiver Nate Burleson (ankle), middle linebacker DeAndre Levy (groin) and backup running back Aaron Brown (hand). Full story ...

— FOXSports Detroit

Panthers sign offensive lineman — 11:00 a.m.

The Carolina Panthers have signed free-agent OL Chris Morris, who worked out for the team last week.

Morris, who was selected in the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, was released by the Raiders on Sept. 4.

Morris, who is capable of playing guard and center, will likely take over the No. 2 center job with the Panthers. He started 11 of the 47 games he appeared in during his four seasons with the Raiders.

In addition, the Panthers worked out free agent LBs Abdul Hodge and Stanford Keglar this week.

Hodge would fit in at MLB. Keglar fits in at SLB or MLB.

— Adam Caplan

Ravens cut veteran DE, re-sign safety — 10:46 a.m.

The Baltimore Ravens released veteran DE Trevor Pryce on Wednesday morning. To take his place on the 53-man roster, the Ravens re-signed S Ken Hamlin.

Pryce, 35, signed a five-year, $24.5 million deal with the Ravens in March 2006. That deal was set to expire at the end of this season, but the team renegotiated in April, a source confirmed. His base salary of $4.5 million was cut to $2 million for 2010.

The Ravens have decent depth at defensive end, so it’s not a surprise that they have moved on from Pryce, who was going to be a backup for the rest of the season had he stayed on the roster. However, it’s not out of the question that he re-signs at a lower base salary. He totaled 26 sacks in 56 games with the Ravens.

Hamlin (6-2, 208) was released by Baltimore on Sept. 22. He signed with the Ravens on June 17.

Hamlin has seen action in 100 games, including two for the Ravens this season, totaling 565 tackles, 14 interceptions and five sacks during his eight-year career.

— Adam Caplan

Colts take a look at veteran RBs — 10:40 a.m.

The Indianapolis Colts, perhaps getting an emergency list together of available running backs, took a look at two veterans earlier this week, a source confirmed.

Justin Fargas, who was released by the Denver Broncos on Aug. 30, worked out for the Colts. Fargas also worked out for the Houston Texans a few weeks ago.

Ryan Moats, who was released by the Minnesota Vikings on Aug. 24, worked out for the Colts.

In addition, the Colts released undrafted free-agent S Donye’ McClesky from injured reserve.

— Adam Caplan

Vikings make practice squad change — 10:40 a.m.

The Minnesota Vikings are on a bye this week, but they’ve made a change on their practice squad.

The team added former Miami Dolphins TE John Nalbone. To make room for him, the Vikings released undrafted free-agent CB Marcus Sherels.

Nalbone, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft by Miami, was waived by Miami on Sept. 21. For the first week of the regular season, Nalbone held the No. 2 tight end role.

He’s known in scouting circles as an athletic tight end, but needs to get stronger physically.

In addition, the team worked out kickers Hunter Lawrence and Swayze Waters, guard Donald Thomas and offensive lineman Scott Kooistra this week.

Thomas has worked out for more teams than any other player so far this season. In addition to Minnesota, the list includes the Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks.

— Adam Caplan

Texans waive cornerback — 9:05 a.m.

The Houston Texans have waived CB Jamar Wall, a source confirmed. The move has not been announced by the team but was turned into the NFL personnel office on Tuesday.

Wall was claimed off waivers from the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 5. The rookie was a sixth-round pick for the Cowboys.

Even with Wall jettisoned, the Texans still have five cornerbacks on their 53-man roster.

The Texans apparently are still evaluating the depth in the secondary. So far this week, they
have worked out six defensive backs including safeties Antonio Baker, Quintin Demps, Al Afalava, and Victor “Macho” Harris. Houston also worked out CBs Scott Starks, Karl Paymah, and Chevis Jackson.

— Adam Caplan

Rams re-sign cornerback — 9:05 a.m.

The St. Louis Rams released veteran CB Kevin Dockery last week but have decided to bring him back.

Dockery has re-signed with the team.

Dockery originally signed a one-year, $630,000 deal with the Rams back in March.

With Dockery back, the Rams now have five cornerbacks on their 53-man roster.

— Adam Caplan

September 28 News and Notes

NFL Week 3 player of the week nominations —9:45 p.m.

The third week of the NFL was one to remember. Some big-time playmakers stepped up in crucial moments and now the NFL has released its player of the week nominations.

--Peyton Manning followed up his brilliant Week 2 performance against the New York Giants with an even better outing. Manning completed 27 of 43 passes for 325 yards and three touchdowns passes against the Broncos on the road.

--They’re calling Mark Sanchez “the Manchise” in New York after his performance against Miami on Sunday night. The Jets QB threw for three touchdowns for the second straight week, leading the Jets over the Dolphins 31-23.

--Maybe you haven’t heard yet, but Michael Vick is back. Philly’s QB carved up the Jaguars defense, throwing three touchdowns and running for one. Vick has made Eagles head coach Andy Reid look like he made the right decision, starting him over “future-franchise QB” Kevin Kolb.

Let’s take a look at the players who make their living with the ground game.

--Chris Johnson is a man on a mission, saying earlier in the year he will run for 2,500 yards in 2010. Although the Titans’ RB isn’t on pace, he led his team to a 29-10 win over the Giants. Johnson ran for 125 yards and two touchdowns.

--The Steelers are known for their stifling defense and their physical running game. Pittsburgh’s running back Rashard Mendenhall absolutely went off against the Bucs on Sunday. The second-year back out of Illinois had 19 carries for 143 yards and a touchdown.

--Adrian Peterson had a monster day running for 160 yards and two touchdowns. AP had an 80-yard touchdown run that broke open a Vikings 24-10 win over the Lions.

— Ross Jones

Several key Cowboys dealing with injuries — 9:15 p.m.

During last week’s win at the Houston Texans, three key players from the offensive side of the ball for the Dallas Cowboys dealt with injuries.

Starting TE Jason Witten played through a sprained knee, the team’s official website reports. Witten, who had an MRI on Monday to determine the extent of the injury, may be limited in practice during the team’s Week 4 bye week.

Starting LG Kyle Kosier suffered a sprained MCL against Houston and couldn’t finish the game. Kosier was coming back from a knee injury which he suffered in the preseason. If he can’t start after the bye, backup G Montrae Holland would start.

Rookie WR Dez Bryant suffered a rib injury two weeks ago. He was listed on the injury report with the injury leading up to last week’s game. The injury has been diagnosed as a stress fracture in his rib area. That type of injury can be very painful, but a player can deal with it by wearing extra padding or protection. Bryant played well against the Texans and didn’t look to be limited by the injury.

— Adam Caplan

Chargers LB English out at least four weeks — 8:49 p.m.

San Diego Chargers second-year OLB Larry English had underwent surgery on his foot and is expected to miss the next 4-6 weeks, the team announced.

English, who was selected in the first-round in the 2009 NFL Draft, started the Chargers’ first two games, recording six tackles, half a sack and two quarterback pressures.

With starting OLB Shawne Merriman (calf) left last week’s game at the Seattle Seahawks early, so backup OLBs Jyles Tucker and Antwan Applewhite may have to see more snaps than usual against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

— Adam Caplan

Colts cut QB; Sanders and Gonzalez out again — 8:46 p.m.

The Indianapolis Colts released QB Tom Brandstater off their practice squad.

Brandstater, who was selected in the sixth-round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos, was claimed off waivers by the Colts on June 7. He was waived on Sept. 4, but signed to the practice squad the next day.

In addition, the Colts announced that starting SS Bob Sanders (biceps) and backup WR Anthony Gonzalez (ankle) will not play at Jacksonville on Sunday.

Backup S Melvin Bullitt will start again for Sanders. The team is hopeful that Sanders will be able to return before the end of the regular season.

— Adam Caplan

Seahawks make several moves — 8:44 p.m.

The Seattle Seahawks, perhaps looking to improve their depth at few positions, made several roster moves on Tuesday.

They signed veteran WR Brandon Stokley, G/OT Allen Barbre, and OT Breno Giacomini. To make room for all three players on the 53-man roster, the team waived OL Mansfield Wrotto, FB Quinton Ganther, and G Mike Gibson.

Barbre and Giacomini last played for the Green Bay Packers. Barbre was Green Bay's fourth-round selection (119th overall) in the 2007 NFL Draft from Missouri Southern. He played in 25 career games with his seven career starts coming at right tackle last season.
Giacomini was the Packers fifth-round selection (150th overall) in the 2008 NFL Draft out of Louisville. He has played in one career game, being active for three and inactive for the remaining 29 contests.

— Adam Caplan

Read the rest of this story

Ochocinco posts his cell number — 7:31 p.m.

We're betting that Chad Ochocinco will be getting a new phone number by the end of the season. The Bengals star posted the digits to his cell Tuesday on his official Twitter account. In a tweet that appears to have been modified, he wrote: "Oh yeah that really is my number, ask the blogs, don't call just text, see im normal just like you, I'm accessible."

— FOXSports.com

Saints bring back veteran Kicker — 7:05 p.m.

The New Orleans Saints have signed veteran K John Carney, a source told FOXSports.com.

Carney, who worked out for the Saints on Tuesday, appeared in 11 games for the team last season. After being released by the team in late December, the Saints brought him back for the rest of the season as a team consultant.

It’s believed struggling K Garrett Hartley, who has missed three field goals this season including one that would have won the game for the Saints in overtime against the Atlanta Falcons, will remain on the roster. Carney is expected to work with and mentor Hartley as he did last season.

The team also worked out free agent K Kris Brown, who was released by the Houston Texans with an injury settlement on Sept. 4.

— Adam Caplan

Former Lions DB, coach Doll dies at 84 — 6:43 p.m.

Don Doll, a standout defensive back who was part of Detroit's 1952 NFL championship team before later coaching the Lions, has died. He was 84.

The Lions said Tuesday that Doll died last Wednesday in San Juan Capistrano, Calif. The team did not announce a cause of death.

The team said Doll had at least 10 interceptions in three different seasons, the only NFL player to accomplish that feat.

Doll played safety for the Lions from 1949-52, and he intercepted four passes in one game against the Chicago Cardinals as a rookie in 1949. He also played one season each with the Washington Redskins and Los Angeles Rams.

Doll returned to the Lions as a coach from 1963-64 and again from 1978-88.

— The Associated Press

Panthers release DT Leonard, ending one-year stint — 6:39 p.m.

The Panthers have released defensive tackle Louis Leonard, ending an injury-filled year in Carolina.

The 26-year-old Leonard entered training camp as a favorite to win a starting job on the Panthers' revamped defensive line, but didn't live up to expectations. He failed to crack the rotation and had three tackles in two games. The Panthers didn't immediately replace him Tuesday on the 53-man roster.

Leonard was acquired from Cleveland before the start of last season for a sixth-round draft pick, but played in only two games before breaking his left ankle.

The Panthers gave Leonard a one-year, $1.6 million tender in the offseason. But he was slowed in training camp with a sore knee and missed the Sept. 19 loss to Tampa Bay with an elbow injury.

— The Associated Press

Chargers make several roster moves — 5:41 p.m.

The San Diego Chargers made a slew of roster moves on Tuesday.

They signed LS Ethan Albright, SS Quinton Teal, and CB Dante Hughes on Tuesday.

To make room for the three players on the 53-man roster, the team waived RB Curtis Brinkley and placed LB James Holt (shoulder) and LS Ryan Neill (knee) on injured reserve.

Albright is in his 16th NFL season and had snapped in all 16 games every year since 1996 until this season. He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with Green Bay in 1994 and spent the season on the practice squad. He played 10 games for Miami in ’95 and played in all 16 games every year from ’96 to ’09 for Buffalo and Washington, making the Pro Bowl with the Redskins in 2007.

Albright is the Chargers’ fourth long snapper in the last two weeks. The team has placed David Binn (hamstring), James Dearth (foot) and Neill on Reserve-Injured. Neill snapped for the Chargers in Weeks 2 and 3 but suffered an injury against Seattle, necessitating Albright’s signing.

Teal, who participated in training camp with the Chargers, played in 44 games with Carolina from 2007-09 and made 45 tackles on defense and 26 on special teams. The 6-foot, 205-pound safety gives San Diego another defensive back and special teams contributor, as does the 5-foot-10, 190-pound Hughes.

Hughes, in his fourth NFL season, played in one game for the Chargers last year against Washington. Hughes was on San Diego’s active roster for the first two weeks of the season, but was inactive in the first two games. Hughes was waived last weekend by San Diego.

— Adam Caplan

Stafford to begin throwing — 5:11 p.m.

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz confirmed reports during his weekly radio appearance Tuesday on WXYT-FM in Detroit that starting QB Matthew Stafford (right shoulder) will begin some light throwing this week.

“That’s just part of his rehab and where he is. I think we’re happy with where he is based on the injury that he had, and like I said as soon as he’s able to do things like that we’ll sort of cut him loose to do it but not before,” Schwartz said. “We’ve said this for a long time, the one thing we want to measure or weigh is ability to get back on the field versus when it’s smart to put him back on the field. And we’re going to make the right decision. It’s his throwing shoulder. We’re going to put him back when he’s healthy, when he’s able to make a play.”

Stafford is likely at least two weeks away from being able to play, but he’s finally on his way back from the shoulder injury he suffered during the season opener at the Chicago Bears.

— Adam Caplan

Packers S gets into confrontation with fan — 4:58 p.m.

The NFL is investigating a confrontation between Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins and a fan after Monday night's loss to the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

Spokesman Greg Aiello told The Associated Press the league is ''in the process of reviewing all the facts'' and Bears spokesman Scott Hagel said the team is doing the same thing.

''Right now, we're monitoring it,'' Hagel said.

Milwaukee's WITI-TV aired video in which Collins is seen yelling at a fan as he left the field. Collins then appears to throw his mouthpiece into the stands. According to the station's report, Collins said the fan spit on him and used a racial slur.

WITI said Collins apologized for ''losing his cool.''

Collins, a veteran safety who has been selected to two straight Pro Bowls, may have been frustrated after being caught in the middle of two penalties that helped turn the game in the Bears' favor.

With the score tied at 17 and the Bears driving in the final minutes of the game, Collins intercepted a pass from Chicago quarterback Jay Cutler. But the play was wiped out by a pass interference penalty on rookie safety Morgan Burnett, putting the Bears in position to kick the game-winning field goal.

''I saw that yellow flag (come) down, and you're like, 'Aw, come on, man,''' Collins said after the game. ''It happens. It's just part of the game.''

Earlier in the quarter, Collins was called for unnecessary roughness on Bears running back Matt Forte after a 15-yard reception, allowing the Bears to continue a drive for a game-tying field goal.

— The Associated Press

Arizona WR Breaston has surgery — 4:52 p.m.

According to XTRA Sports Radio in Phoenix, Arizona Cardinals starting WR Steve Breaston had knee surgery on Tuesday. The surgery to repair a torn meniscus is expected to keep the fourth-year pro out at least the next few games.

Undrafted rookie free-agent WR Stephen Williams is expected to replace Breaston. Williams, who had a terrific preseason and training camp, has really good size (6-5, 210).

No. 3 WR Early Doucet (sports hernia surgery) is expected to miss at least a few more weeks. Arizona currently has just four healthy receivers on their 53-man roster. Three out of the four are rookies.

— Adam Caplan

Jaguars claim Trent Edwards off waivers — 4:41 p.m.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have claimed QB Trent Edwards off waivers, his agent, Ryan Toller confirmed. Today’s waiver claims are now based on this season’s current standings.

Edwards, who was waived by the Buffalo Bills on Monday, will handle the No. 3 quarterback role for the Jaguars.

The Jaguars will inherit the final year of Edwards’ rookie contract at a base salary of $1.65 million.

Because Jacksonville runs a similar offensive scheme to Buffalo’s, Edwards should be able to get up to speed on it rather quickly.

— Adam Caplan

Schobel works out for Texans — 4:00 p.m.

Free-agent DE Aaron Schobel worked out for the Houston Texans on Monday, a source confirmed.

Schobel, who is expected to stay retired, was released by the Buffalo Bills on Aug. 4.

Schobel, 33, received interest from at least a half dozen teams after being released by Buffalo.

— Adam Caplan

Giants place Safety on IR — 3:58 p.m.

The New York Giants have placed backup S Michael Johnson (back) on injured reserve. To replace him on the 53-man roster, the team signed undrafted rookie CB Brian Jackson off the practice squad.

Jackson (6-0, 199) was signed to the practice squad on Sept. 9. He joined the NFL as a rookie free agent with the New York Jets on April 30. Jackson played in all four preseason games for the Jets and had four tackles, four passes defensed and a forced fumble, with three of the pass breakups and the forced fumble in the preseason finale at the Philadelphia Eagles. Jackson was waived by the Jets on Sept. 7.

The Giants currently have just four safeties on their roster, but now have six cornerbacks.

— Adam Caplan

Bills re-sign QB — 2:18 p.m.

As expected, the Buffalo Bills re-signed QB Levi Brown. The rookie was signed to Buffalo’s 53-man roster. He’ll replace QB Trent Edwards, who was waived on Monday.

Brown originally joined the Bills as the team’s first of two seventh-round (209th overall) draft picks in the 2010 NFL Draft and was released prior to the start of the regular season.

Brown (6-4, 225) set Troy University and Sun Belt Conference single-season records in 2009, completing 321-of-504 passes for 4,254 yards with 23 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Brown earned SBC Player of the Year and All-SBC first-team honors in 2009.

Before re-signing with the Bills, Brown worked out for the New York Giants, New England Patriots, and Pittsburgh Steelers in recent weeks.

— Adam Caplan

Steelers stick with Batch — 2:01 p.m.

Mike Tomlin probably wishes his quarterback decision had been this easy all season.

Charlie Batch, buried so deep on the Steelers' depth chart that he barely practiced during training camp, will start Sunday's AFC North game against Baltimore. Batch hasn't started successive games since midway through the 2005 season, when Ben Roethlisberger had a right knee injury.

Batch started Sunday at Tampa Bay only because Dennis Dixon had left knee surgery last week and Byron Leftwich was recovering from a left knee injury, yet he completed 12 of 17 passes for 186 yards and three touchdowns - his first scoring passes since 2007.

Leftwich, expected to start throughout Roethlisberger's four-game suspension, is healthy, but Tomlin said Batch earned the right to play.

— The Associated Press

Jags sign veteran LB — 1:17 p.m.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have signed veteran LB Eric Alexander.

Alexander (6-2, 240) has spent the past six seasons with the New England Patriots where he played in 45 games. Alexander has 40 career special teams tackles including 14 in two different seasons. He has played in six postseason games and made his only career start at linebacker in the AFC Championship game against Indianapolis on Jan. 21, 2007 and led the team with 10 tackles including one sack.

A native of Tyler, Texas, Alexander played in 14 games for the Patriots in 2009 and ranked third on the team with 14 special teams tackles. He spent the 2010 preseason with the club before he was waived on final cuts. He was originally signed as an undrafted rookie by the Patriots in 2004 and spent the majority of his rookie season on the club’s practice squad.

In addition, the Jaguars signed QB Keith Null to their practice squad. Null replaces Brett Ratliff, who was released off the practice squad on Monday.

Null (6-4, 220) was a sixth-round draft pick of the St. Louis Rams in 2009 and played in five games for the Rams as a rookie including four starts. He completed 61.3 percent of his passes (73 of 119) for 566 yards with three touchdowns and nine interceptions. He spent the 2010 preseason with the Rams before he was waived during final cuts. A native of Lampasas, Texas, Null played collegiately at West Texas A & M University where he threw for more than 9,000 yards in two seasons.

— Adam Caplan

Rams sign RB — 12:39 p.m.

The St. Louis Rams have signed RB Chauncey Washington off the New York Jets practice squad. He’ll replace rookie WR Dominique Curry (knee) on the 53-man roster, who was placed on injured reserve on Monday.

Washington, who was selected in the seventh-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, will vie for a backup job against RBs Ken Darby and Keith Toston. St. Louis now has four backs on their roster, but starter Steven Jackson’s (groin) status for Sunday’s home again against the Seattle Seahawks is uncertain.

Washington, who also spent time with the Dallas Cowboys last season, is known in scouting circles as a power runner.

— Adam Caplan

Portis OK with RB-by-committee if it means winning — 12:22 p.m.

Two days after getting benched on first and second downs in favor of the unproven Ryan Torain in the second half of a surprising 30-16 loss at St. Louis, Clinton Portis didn't lash out at coach Mike Shanahan. Far from it.

In fact, the Redskins' No. 1 running back for the last seven seasons was positively at peace when asked during his weekly radio appearance if he expects to start in Sunday's NFC East matchup at Philadelphia.

Full story

— Sports XChange

Lions expected to look at speedy wideout — 11:20 a.m.

The Detroit Lions are expected to work out free agent WR Dexter Jackson on Tuesday, a source confirmed.

Jackson, who also worked out for the Cincinnati Bengals recently, was selected in the second-round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jackson spent time with the Carolina Panthers last season. He was waived by Carolina on Aug. 31.

Jackson, who is also capable of returning punts, posted a 40-yard dash time in the low to mid 4.3’s for the Bengals.

— Adam Caplan

Buccaneers sign TE off practice squad — 10:40 a.m.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who moved seventh-round pick Erik Lorig from defensive end to tight end recently, signed him off their practice squad, a source confirmed.

The rookie was waived by Tampa Bay on Sept. 14, but was signed to the practice squad on Sept. 16. Lorig is now the fourth tight end on Tampa Bay’s 53-man roster.

To replace Lorig on the practice squad, the team signed free-agent LB J.D. Folsom.

Folsom, who was selected in the seventh-round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins, released off the Chicago Bears practice squad last week.

— Adam Caplan

Dolphins lose DT for one game — 10:12 a.m.

Miami Dolphins backup DT Tony McDaniel has been suspended one game by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. The suspension will start immediately, so McDaniel will miss Monday night’s game at home against the New England Patriots.

The suspension is tied to McDaniel’s arrest stemming from a domestic violence charge in February.

McDaniel was acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars in March for a seventh-round pick.

— Adam Caplan

Rams make roster adjustments — 10:12 a.m.

The St. Louis Rams, who lost rookie Dominque Curry for the season due to a torn ACL, placed the receiver on injured reserve.

Even with Curry gone, the Rams still have five receivers on their 53-man roster.

In addition, the Rams waived seventh-round pick CB Marquis Johnson. With Johnson off the roster, the Rams are down to just four cornerbacks.

— Adam Caplan

Patriots work out two QBs — 10:01 a.m.

The New England Patriots worked out three players on Monday, a source confirmed.

The team worked out rookie QBs Levi Brown and Tim Hiller, along with WR Aaron Boyce. Hiller and Boyce are undrafted free-agents. The Patriots currently have one spot open on their practice squad.

The Buffalo Bills are expected to sign Brown on Tuesday, a source confirmed. Brown is expected to take the place on the 53-man roster of QB Trent Edwards, who was waived on Monday.

Brown, who was selected in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Bills, was waived on Sept. 4. He's also had workouts for the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers in recent weeks.

In addition, the Patriots waived undrafted free-agent OT Steve Maneri, who was claimed off waivers from the Houston Texans on Sept. 5. He originally signed with Houston as a rookie free agent on May 7. Maneri was inactive for the first three games of the season for the Patriots.

— Adam Caplan

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