Archive for 2012

NFL Rumors: Browns, Eagles Targeting Bill O’Brien

By | Published Monday, December 31, 2012


While Oregon’s Chip Kelly and Alabama’s Nick Saban are the two head coaches from the college ranks garnering the most attention, Chris Mortensen of ESPN reports that Penn State coach Bill O’Brien may be on more short lists entering the offseason.

As NFL owners and executives revisit the success of college coaches at the pro level, Penn State’s Bill O'Brien may be on more short lists than Oregon's Chip Kelly and that would include the Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles, according to league sources.

While O’Brien was more than successful in his first season with the Nittany Lions, “that when O'Brien accepted the task of being the late Joe Paterno's successor, he was told by school officials that the Jerry Sandusky scandal was a criminal matter, not an NCAA concern,” according to Mortensen. We now know this wasn’t the case, as Penn State was handed a four-year bowl ban and scholarship reductions as a result.

For this reason and just based on the lore of coaching at the highest level, O’Brien could consider making the jump from college to the NFL after only one year at Penn State. However, according to reports the coach wouldn’t jump at just any opportunity.

Mortensen notes that O’Brien wouldn’t necessarily jump at an opportunity to coach in the NFL, adding that “it would qualify as a surprise” if he left Penn State after being named Big 10 Coach of the Year.


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Jets Rumors: Rex Ryan Not Safe

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While it’s been widely assumed that the New York Jets will retain head coach Rex Ryan beyond this disappointing season that ended with the first meaningless games of his career, he’s yet to receive any assurances that he’ll be back, reports Dan Hanzus of NFL.com.

A 6-10 record means a second consecutive dark postseason for coach Rex Ryan, who is 34-30 in four seasons with the Jets. There will be turnover in Florham Park after this mess, and Ryan was asked after Sunday's game if he has received any assurances from Jets owner Woody Johnson that his job is safe.
"Nope," Ryan replied. "Sure haven't."

The Jets finished the season with an ugly loss at the hands of the lowly Buffalo Bills yesterday, wrapping up their year with a 6-10 record. There has been significant turmoil with the team this season, specifically stemming from their handling of the quarterback position.

Still, it’s expected that general manager Mike Tannenbaum will be the “fall guy” and not Ryan, according to Hanzus. Considering the team’s expectations and the limelight of New York City, Ryan will enter 2013 on the hot seat if he is retained by the club.

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Chargers Coach Norv Turner Expects to be Fired

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Current San Diego Chargers coach Norv Turner expects to be fired by the team after another disappointing season, reports Dan Hanzus of NFL.com.

"Obviously, we're going to meet with the team, and I'm sure they'll start looking for a new coach," Turner said after Sunday’s 24-21 win over the Oakland Raiders, via The Associated Press.

As they have for the past several seasons, the Chargers entered 2012 as one of the favorites in the AFC West. Given the presence of quarterback Phillip Rivers and the lackluster state of the Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs, the Chargers line up as contenders year in and year out.

However, Turner has only managed to lead the club to a 24-24 record since 2010, and it’s been clear that he’s set to be removed from his current position.

At this point, if Turner hopes to continue coaching he is likely to receive interest from teams as an offensive coordinator. However, Hanzus notes that it’s no guarantee that he’ll be seriously viewed as a head coaching candidate this offseason.


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Lions Rumors: Jim Schwartz’s Job is Safe

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While it’s been reported that Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz could be out following the team’s disappointing season, he will be back and there is “no merit” to the notion that the team seriously considered letting him go, reports Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

Per a source with knowledge of the situation, Schwartz will be back in 2013.  The source also said that there’s “no merit” to the notion that firing Schwartz with three years left on his contract has been considered seriously.

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported yesterday that Schwartz’s job could be in jeopardy. While Florio wouldn’t completely dismiss that initial report, he did note that the fact Schwartz is signed through the 2015 season is likely saving his job.

The Lions ended their season at a disappointing mark of 4-12 after another close loss. There was much expected of the team after last season’s positive showing, and even if he’s not let go Schwartz figures to be on the hot seat entering next year.


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Falcons Injury Report: John Abraham, Dunta Robinson Exit with Injuries

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The Atlanta Falcons lost a pair of starters on defense yesterday during their 22-17 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, lineman John Abraham and cornerback Dunta Robinson, reports Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.

The Falcons lost starting cornerback Dunta Robinson to a head injury in the first quarter and defensive end John Abraham to an ankle injury in the fourth quarter. Abraham was carted to the Falcons’ locker room after leaving the game. Falcons coach Mike Smith revealed in postgame remarks that Abraham's injury was minor.

While Abraham’s injury is expected to be minor, it’s not yet clear what Robinson is dealing with. The Falcons haven’t labeled the head injury as a concussion, and the cornerback is expected to undergo further evaluation today.

The injuries once again bring into question the practice of playing your starters in games that are meaningless. The Falcons had already clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC, but the team showed yesterday that it’s not one that can afford to take two weeks off.


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Vikings Injury Report: Antoine Winfield Exits with Broken Hand

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Vikings Cornerback Antoine Winfield’s broken hand forced him to exit yesterday’s victory over the Green Bay Packers prior to the start of the second half and sidelined him for the remainder of the game, reports Mark Craig of Sporting News.

Winfield had injured the hand the previous week at Houston but finished that game. It was announced as a small fracture, but Winfield didn’t practice last week. He tried to play Sunday but couldn’t jam or re-route receivers, nor could he make a tackle without the hand affecting his play. With his hand swelling up, he sat out the second half.

While his hand was “quite swollen” after yesterday’s win over the Packers, Winfield insisted that he will suit up for Saturday’s wild-card playoff matchup against Green Bay. Coach Leslie Frazier has said the cornerback is day-to-day with his hand injury, noting that it will be harder to play given the short week.


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Philadelphia Eagles to Fire Andy Reid

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Following yesterday’s ugly loss to the New York Giants in their season finale, it began to be reported that the Philadelphia Eagles were set to part ways with long-time head coach Andy Reid. Team owner Jeff Lurie told Reid Friday that he would be out as Eagles’ coach, ending his 14-year run with the team, reports Reuben Frank of CSN Philly.

Lurie, according to multiple league sources, has decided that Reid will not return in 2013, ending months of speculation about his future. One source said Lurie met with Reid on Friday and told him he wouldn't be returning as head coach.

An Eagles spokesman has said that a decision has yet to be made, as Reid and Eagles’ brass are set to meet this morning to discuss his future. However, a quick decision is expected to be passed down which will result in the end of the Reid coaching era in Philly.

While there have been rumblings that the Eagles could offer Reid a front office position, he’s said that he’s hoping to continue coach without taking a year off. Considering his track record and the number of firings expected around the league Reid should have plenty of suitors.


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Falcons Injury Report: William Moore, Roddy White, Jonathan Babineaux

By | Published Sunday, December 30, 2012


The Atlanta Falcons have already ruled out safety William Moore for today’s regular season finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while they have wide receiver Roddy White and defensive lineman Jonathan Babineaux listed among those questionable to play.

Moore missed practice all week due to his hamstring injury and will not play today. Cornerback Chris Owens is also out due to a hamstring injury.

Atlanta has four others listed on their injury report as questionable to suit up against the Bucs, but all could be held out of the contest considering the Falcons have already clinched home field advantage through the playoffs.

White is still hampered by a knee injury, but he would likely play if today’s game were meaningful. Beyond White, Babineaux (ribs), and fellow defensive linemen Cliff Matthews (hamstring) and Corey Peters (knee) are questionable to play against Tampa Bay.


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Vikings Injury Report: Antoine Winfield, Brian Robison, Jared Allen

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While Minnesota Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield and defensive lineman Jared Allen are expected to suit up for today’s pivotal matchup against the Green Bay Packers, defensive lineman Brian Robison is less likely to play, according to Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.

Two of the Vikings' best players – cornerback Antoine Winfield (knee) and defensive end Brian Robison (shoulder) -- are questionable to face the Packers. Winfield didn't practice all week, but Vikings coach Leslie Frazier indicated the cornerback should suit up Sunday. Robison is less likely to play against the Packers.

Allen didn’t participate in Wednesday’s session, but he returned to practice fully Thursday and was not included on the team’s report Friday. Winfield didn’t practice all week and is listed as questionable, but the cornerback is expected to suit up.

Beyond Allen, punter Chris Kluwe (left knee), offensive lineman Phil Loadholt (knee), running back Adrian Peterson (abdomen) and cornerback Sherels Marcus (quadriceps) are probable to play against the Packers. Robison and Winfield are both questionable to suit up.


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Cowboys Injury Report: Dez Bryant, DeMarcus Ware, DeMarco Murray

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The Dallas Cowboys are a fairly healthy unit as they prepare for today’s game against the Washington Redskins, as wide receiver Dez Bryant, running back DeMarco Murray and linebacker DeMarcus Ware are all probable to play.

Bryant (finger) and Murray (foot) were both full participants all week at practice. Ware, on the other hand, missed practice all week due to his elbow and shoulder injuries. Still, the linebacker is likely to suit up for today’s pivotal showdown with the Redskins.

Along with Bryant, Murray and Ware, linebackers Alex Albright (knee) and Victor Butler (groin), running back Felix Jones (knee) and defensive lineman Jason Hatcher (thigh) are all probable to play against Washington.

The Cowboys have ruled defensive lineman Jay Ratliff out for today’s game, as the veteran is recovering from a groin injury that kept him from practicing all week. Linebacker Ernie Sims was able to practice fully all week but remains questionable to suit up due to his concussion.


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49ers Injury Report: Justin Smith, Vernon Davis, Carlos Rogers

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While defensive end Justin Smith is doubtful to play today against the Arizona Cardinals, tight end Vernon Davis is questionable after being cleared to return to practice earlier in the week, reports Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.

Niners defensive tackle Justin Smith (triceps) says he’ll be ready to play next week, but he's doubtful for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Arizona Cardinals. Tight end Vernon Davis (concussion) is questionable. He could be cleared to play by doctors Saturday.

Smith has been diagnosed with a partially torn triceps. While it isn’t expected to sideline him for the remainder of the season, the defensive end is unlikely to suit up against the Cardinals. Smith has vowed to return for the playoffs.

Davis was cleared to resume practicing earlier in the week after sustaining a concussion. He could be a game-time decision.

Beyond Smith and Davis, defensive lineman Will Tukuafu (neck) and linebacker Clark Haggans (shoulder) are the only other 49ers on the report that are listed as something other than probable.


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Bears Injury Report: Matt Forte, Brian Urlacher, Charles Tillman

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Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte and cornerback Charles Tillman are probable to play today against the Detroit Lions, but linebacker Brian Urlacher is doubtful to suit up due to a hamstring injury.

Urlacher was able to return to practice Friday and his doubtful status is actually an upgrade. Still, it doesn’t appear the veteran linebacker will be able to suit up for what could be the final game of the season for the Bears.

While Forte exited last weekend’s contest against the Arizona Cardinals due to an ankle injury, the running back is expected to play during Chicago’s must-win game against the Lions, according to Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune.

Forte left last Sunday’s victory over the Cardinals with a sprained right ankle in the third quarter but he practiced for the second consecutive day Friday in the Walter Payton Center and is expected to start against the Lions at Ford Field.

Beyond Forte, Tillman (ribs, elbow), offensive lineman Jonathan Scott (hamstring) and cornerback Tim Jennings (shoulder) are all probable to play. Safety Chris Conte (hamstring) and linebacker Blake Costanzo (calf) have been ruled out, while running back Armando Allen (knee) and defensive lineman Henry Melton (chest) are questionable to suit up.


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Patriots Injury Report: Rob Gronkowski, Wes Welker, Aaron Hernandez

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While New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker and tight end Aaron Hernandez were expected to suit up for today’s contest against the Miami Dolphins, tight end Rob Gronkowski will return from his broken forearm injury in “at least a limited role,” according to Tom E. Curran of CSN New England.

Gronkowski has been out since Nov. 18 when he sustained a broken forearm late in the game against the Indianapolis Colts. He was expected to return for the playoffs, but it wasn’t clear if he’d see action during the end of the regular season.

Beyond Gronkowski, a whopping 19 other Patriots’ players are listed as questionable to suit up against the Dolphins. Welker and Hernandez are listed on the report, but both are expected to play. Others included on the list are linebacker Dont’a Hightower (hamstring, shoulder), offensive linemen Nate Solder (abdomen), Logan Mankins (ankle, calf) and Sebastian Vollmer (back, knee) and wide receiver Brandon Lloyd (knee).

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Browns Rumors: Cleveland to Fire Pat Shurmur, Tom Heckert

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The Cleveland Browns are expected to part ways with coach Pat Shurmur and general manager Tom Heckert Monday following their regular season finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers, reports Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

Coach Pat Shurmur and general manager Tom Heckert are expected to either be fired or part ways with new owner Jimmy Haslam and new CEO Joe Banner by Monday, league sources told The Plain Dealer.

Shurmur and Heckert will either be informed of the Browns’ decision shortly after the game or sometime Monday morning, according to Cabot. Entering Sunday’s matchup with the Steelers, Shurmur has led Cleveland to a 9-22 record during his tenure with the team.

Cabot notes that as the Browns seek a replacement for Shurmur some of the “most coveted” candidates are current NFL offensive coordinators, including Josh McDaniels of the New England Patriots and Bruce Arians of the Indianapolis Colts. There are also the high-profile targets such as college coaches Chip Kelly and Nick Saban and former Super Bowl winners Jon Gruden and Bill Cowher.


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Eagles Rumors: Michael Vick Won’t Restructure Deal

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At this point, it appears the only way quarterback Michael Vick will remain with the Philadelphia Eagles beyond this season is if he agrees to restructure his contract, something the veteran is not willing to do, according to Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Would Vick be willing to renegotiate his contract? He declined to speculate on such a premise earlier this week, but an NFL source familiar with the quarterback’s thinking said that Vick would not restructure his deal.

Vick is currently under contract with the Eagles through 2015. He’s set to receive $15.5 million in base salary next season, but Philadelphia is unlikely to retain him at that price given the presence of Nick Foles and the pending coaching change.

If Vick isn’t willing to restructure his deal, it’s unlikely that he’ll return with the Eagles next season. The 32-year-old has said that he believes he can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL. Given the lack of alternative free agent options set to hit the open market, Vick may well decide to forego a restructuring and test his luck as a free agent.


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Chargers Rumors: Andy Reid Interested in San Diego

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Coach Andy Reid, who’s expected to part ways with the Philadelphia Eagles following the season, wants to coach the San Diego Chargers, reports Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

The Los Angeles native wants to coach the Chargers, according to a league source.  Per the source, Reid is making his intentions known as he lines up a potential coaching staff — part of the “multi-level musical chairs” tournament unfolding throughout the league.

It’s been reported that Reid doesn’t want to take a year off from coaching, as some recent high-profile coaches have done after stepping away from the profession. Reid, a Los Angeles native, has made his intentions known as he lines up a potential coaching staff, according to Florio.

Reid has spent 14 seasons with the Eagles. While he has won more than 60 percent of the games he’s coached in Philly, Reid hasn’t won a Super Bowl and is in the midst of a 4-11 season.


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Giants Injury Report: Hakeem Nicks, Ahmad Bradshaw, Justin Tuck

By | Published Saturday, December 29, 2012


While New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is probable to play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, wide receiver Hakeem Nicks and defensive lineman Justin Tuck are questionable to suit up, according to Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.

The New York Giants listed wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee) as questionable for the final time this season. He should play, but he clearly hasn't been 100 percent. Cornerbacks Price Amukamara (hamstring) and Jayron Hosley (quadriceps) are doubtful to play against the Philadelphia Eagles in the regular-season finale.

Though Nicks is listed as questionable to play because of his knee injury, Rosenthal notes that he’s expected to suit up against the Eagles. Still, the wide receiver hasn’t been close to 100 percent as he continues to be hampered by injuries.

Along with Amukamara and Hosley, defensive lineman Chris Canty (knee) is also doubtful to play. Beyond Nicks, Tuck, who’s recovering from a shoulder injury, and safety Kenny Phillips, who’s hampered by a knee injury, are the others considered questionable for Sunday’s regular season finale.


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Packers Injury Report: Jordy Nelson, Alex Green, Randall Cobb

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Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson and running back Alex Green are probable to suit up for the team’s regular season finale against the Minnesota Vikings, but wide receiver Randall Cobb is questionable to play due to his ankle and knee injuries, reports Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com.

The Green Bay Packers list wide receiver Randall Cobb (ankle/knee) as questionable. Running back Alex Green (concussion; probable) is back in the mix. Safety Charles Woodson (collarbone) remains out, but wide receiver Jordy Nelson (hamstring, probable) is all ready to go to against the Minnesota Vikings.

Rosenthal adds that safety Charles Woodson is set to miss another game while recovering from a broken collarbone. While he hasn’t made it back for the regular season, Woodson is expected to return for the playoffs.

Cobb was limited at practice Wednesday before being sidelined for Thursday’s session. He tested his injured ankle and knee on Friday and the team is considering him as a tossup to play against the Vikings.


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Raiders Name Terrelle Pryor Starting Quarterback

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The Oakland Raiders have elected to go with second-year quarterback Terrelle Pryor, not veteran reserve Matt Leinart, to replace the injured Carson Palmer during Sunday’s finale against the San Diego Chargers, reports Jerry McDonald of the Contra Costa Times.

"I’ve decided to go with Terrelle Pryor as our quarterback,’’ Allen said Friday following practice. “He’ll play in the game and we’ll see how the game goes. He’s the starter, and we’re going to go into it as we would any other game."

Raiders coach Dennis Allen said Pryor provides the team “a unique element of athleticism” at the quarterback position. Oakland had said in previous weeks that they were hoping to give Pryor more of an opportunity to showcase his talents with the regular season winding down.

The Raiders and NFL fans alike are anxious to see Pryor, who showed off his dynamic abilities during his time with at Ohio State. It figures to be a learning experience for the young quarterback, as he’s only played in six snaps over the past two games.


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Sean Payton Signs Multi-Year Contract with Saints

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Despite rumors to the contrary, coach Sean Payton will not be leaving the New Orleans Saints following the 2012 season. The Super Bowl-winning coach reached an agreement with the Saints on a multi-year extension, reports Jay Glazer of FOX Sports.

Payton, the suspended Saints head coach whose future in New Orleans was in doubt because of questions about his contract, has agreed to a new multi-year contract extension, Jay Glazer of FOX Sports reports.

Payton was suspended for the entire 2012 season as a result of the NFL’s investigation into the Saints’ bounty program. As a result, Payton’s former contract was voided by the league, meaning he could sign elsewhere following his suspension.

There were ties to the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, among others, but the speculation has been put to rest with his extension with New Orleans.


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Steelers Rumors: Mike Wallace Done in Pittsburgh?

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Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace, who’s an unrestricted free agent after the season, acknowledged that last weekend’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals could have been his final game with the team, reports Ralph N. Paulk of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

“I definitely don‘t want to go out like that,” Wallace said. “I really want to end on a high note. 
“I‘ve got big plans no matter the situation. I have big plans for myself and my family. Hopefully everything will go in a positive manner.”

Wallace said that he would consider returning to the Steelers if his agent can work out a deal with the team. If not, Pittsburgh could elect to use the franchise tag on Wallace, which would cost them more than $10 million next season.

Wallace has proven to be a dynamic receiver since joining the Steelers. He caught 64 passes for 836 yards and eight touchdowns this season and had 1,193 and 1,257 receiving yards in 2011 and 2010.

If the Steelers elect to let Wallace walk over the offseason they would have Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders slated as their starting receivers next year along with tight end Heath Miller, who led the team in receptions in 2012.


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Eagles Rumors: Chip Kelly to Replace Andy Reid?

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The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to part ways with long-time coach Andy Reid at the end of their disappointing season, and Oregon coach Chip Kelly, who’s reportedly headed for the NFL, could be the team’s top choice as a replacement, according to Albert Breer of NFL.com.

NFL.com's Albert Breer said Friday on NFL Network's "Around The League" that the team most associated with Kelly right now is the Philadelphia Eagles. Andy Reid is expected to be fired after the season, opening the Eagles head-coaching position for the first time since 1999.

Kelly will likely want to control the personnel wherever he goes, and the Eagles had given Reid control over those matters, according to Breer.

Beyond the Eagles, the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns are also expected to pursue Kelly. If Breer adds that if Philadelphia doesn’t land or elects not to pursue him, another target could be University of Washington coach Steve Sarkisian.


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Jaguars Injury Report: Maurice Jones-Drew Finally Has Surgery

By | Published Friday, December 28, 2012

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew had surgery on his left foot Friday. The Jaguars best offensive player has been out since October 21 when he sustained the injury in Oakland. The Jaguars expected that Jones-Drew would be able to return eventually, but the foot didn't heal. Coach Mike Mularkey hopes his starting running back will be able to participate in offseason workouts by May.
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Redskins Injury Report: Robert Griffin III Expects More Freedom Against Cowboys

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Due to quarterback Robert Griffin III’s knee injury, the Washington Redskins developed a game plan that included more pocket passing and almost no running against the Philadelphia Eagles. However, this weekend during the team’s pivotal matchup against the Dallas Cowboys Griffin said he expects to have more freedom to play his game, according to Mike Jones of the Washington Post.

“The knee is fine. Whatever I feel like I can do on that day, I will,” said Griffin, who on Wednesday was voted to his first Pro Bowl. “I’ll be able to do more, to answer your question. I won’t dodge it. I’ll be able to do more against the Cowboys than Philly, but we’ll see how that goes.”

Griffin continues to say that he’s not limited physically by the knee injury. Coach Mike Shanahan acknowledged the more conservative approach against the Eagles. Considering the importance of Sunday’s game we are likely to see the dynamic Griffin we’ve seen over much of the season.


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Jets Injury Report: Greg McElroy Hid Concussion

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New York Jets quarterback Greg McElroy hid a concussion sustained last weekend against the San Diego Chargers, reports Jane McManus of ESPN New York.

The New York Jets' coaching staff didn't know Greg McElroy had been experiencing concussion symptoms this week. 
His teammates did. 
According to several players McElroy confided in, the quarterback had been wrestling for days with the decision to tell the Jets' medical staff of his symptoms.

After discovering McElroy’s condition, coach Rex Ryan immediately named Mark Sanchez as the starter for the team’s season finale against the Buffalo Bills. In going with Sanchez, who was benched for the Chargers’ game, Ryan once again passed over Tim Tebow.

Ryan told reporters that while McElroy should have been honest with the team, he understands the hesitancy to give up a starting opportunity in a league where they don’t come easily.


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Rams Rumors: Stephen Jackson Mulling Retirement?

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Though he’s only 29 years old, St. Louis Rams running back Stephen Jackson discussed retirement with reporters yesterday, reports Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

“I’ve always thought about it from day one,” Jackson said, via comments distributed by the team.  “I’ve always thought about what my exit strategy is going to be. If I had to write my story, I’d rather go out like Barry Sanders — wanting people to want more than to leave too late.”

Still, Jackson said that he wants to continue playing for the Rams, as he’s impressed by what coach Jeff Fisher has brought to the organization. Jackson sees a bright future for the team and said he’d like to be a part of it.

Florio believes there is a good chance Jackson will return to St. Louis next season as long as he and the Rams work out a contract that properly reflects the running back’s value. While 30 isn’t old in the traditional sense, it tends to represent a wall of sorts for running backs.


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Cowboys Injury Report: DeMarcus Ware, Dez Bryant, DeMarco Murray

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While Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant and running back DeMarco Murray were full participants at practice Thursday, defensive lineman DeMarcus Ware was sidelined for the second day in a row due to shoulder and elbow injuries, reports Charean Williams of The Fort Worth Star Telegram.

Linebacker DeMarcus Ware missed practice again Thursday with shoulder and elbow injuries. He played in only 59 of 95 plays in Sunday's game after leaving with a shoulder strain. He left with 30 seconds remaining in the third quarter and returned for one play of overtime.

Despite not practicing yet this week, Ware has vowed to play Sunday during the Cowboys’ pivotal matchup against the Washington Redskins, according to Williams.

Dallas has already ruled defensive lineman Jay Ratliff, who underwent sports hernia surgery two weeks go, as out against Washington. Beyond Bryant (finger) and Murray (foot), running back Felix Jones (knee) and linebacker Ernie Sims (concussion) were also full participants during Thursday’s practice.

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Bears Injury Report: Matt Forte, Charles Tillman, Brian Urlacher

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While Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte and cornerback Charles Tillman returned to practice Thursday after missing Wednesday’s session, linebacker Brian Urlacher was once again sidelined due to injury.

Forte, who’s dealing with an ankle injury, and Tillman, who’s recovering from injuries to his ribs and elbow, both returned at a limited capacity Thursday. Forte exited last weekend’s win over the Arizona Cardinals due to his ankle injury, but he and Tillman are both expected to suit up Sunday.

Urlacher continues to be hampered by a hamstring injury. The veteran linebacker is hoping to recover in time to make an appearance in the postseason, if the Bears should advance, but it looks like he’ll continue to be sidelined this weekend.

Beyond Urlacher, running back Armando Allen (knee), safety Chris Conte (hamstring) and linebacker Blake Costanzo (calf) also didn’t practice Thursday. Defensive lineman Henry Melton participated but was limited by a chest injury.


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49ers Injury Report: Justin Smith Diagnosed with Torn Triceps

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The San Francisco 49ers announced yesterday that defensive lineman Justin Smith has a bone spur attached to a piece of his triceps tendon that became detached in his left elbow, reports Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area.

Defensive tackle Justin Smith had a bone spur attached to a piece of his triceps tendon that became detached in his left elbow, the 49ers clarified Thursday morning.

Maiocco adds that Smith has been diagnosed with a partially torn triceps, with the partial tear being to his tendon and not his muscle. Smith has been sidelined since sustaining the injury during a Dec. 16 game against the New England Patriots.

If Smith would have tore his triceps completely he would require surgery which would keep him out for the remainder of the season. As things stand, Smith will undergo surgery following the season and can rejoin the team once he rebuilds the strength in his arm. The 49ers are hoping that they’ll get the defensive end back this season.


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Jets Rumors: Rex Ryan Wants to be Fired?

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Following his second consecutive disappointing season at the helm of the New York Jets, coach Rex Ryan is reportedly telling anyone that will listen that he’d be better off being fired if the team isn’t willing to “rectify player personnel and coaching issues on offense,” reports Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.

The Daily News has learned that Ryan, the swashbuckling point man who dominated the headlines for the past four seasons, has intimated to “anyone who will listen” that he would be better off getting fired if Johnson isn’t willing to rectify player personnel and coaching issues on offense, according to sources.

Mehta considers it unlikely that owner Woody Johnson would fire Ryan, considering the coach has two years and more than $6 million remaining on his current contract. However, Ryan hasn’t been provided assurances that he’ll be back for next season.

Ryan’s comments would appear to be pointed directly at offensive coordinator Tony Sporano, but he could also be signaling a break from quarterback Mark Sanchez.

The Jets are in the midst of a 6-9 season. While they rank 12th in the NFL in rushing, they’ve totaled the third-lowest amount of passing yards in the league in 2012.


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Steelers Place Heath Miller, Ike Taylor, Baron Batch on IR

By | Published Thursday, December 27, 2012


The Pittsburgh Steelers placed three players on injured reserve this week, including cornerback Ike Taylor, tight end Heath Miller and running back Baron Batch, reports Darin Gantt of Pro Football Talk.

The Steelers did just that, placing cornerback Ike Taylor on injured reserve, along with tight end Heath Miller and running back Baron Batch.

Taylor has missed the last three games due to an ankle injury. There was a shot that the cornerback would have been able to return for the playoffs, but now that the Steelers have been eliminated the team decided to remove him from its roster.

Miller and Batch both suffered injuries in last weekend’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Miller sustained an ACL/MCL/PCL injury, while Batch broke his arm.

To replace Taylor, Miller and Batch on the 53-man roster, the Steelers promoted tight end Jamie McCoy, safety Damon Cromartie-Smith and linebacker Marshall McFadden from the practice squad.


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Raiders Injury Report: Matt Leinart or Terrelle Pryor?

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With Carson Palmer slated to miss the Oakland Raiders’ regular season finale due to his bruised lung, the question becomes which backup, Matt Leinart or Terrelle Pryor, will get the start Sunday against the San Diego Chargers. Steve Corkran of the Contra Costa Times reported yesterday that Pryor and Leinart split first-team reps yesterday, adding even more intrigue to the situation.

However, Pryor told Vic Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle that Leinart, not himself, received a majority of the first-team snaps yesterday.

Leinart came in and replaced Palmer last weekend after he sustained his injury. The former first-round pick completed 16 of his 32 pass attempts for 115 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

While Leinart has more experience than Pryor, the Raiders have said that they’d like to increase the second-year player’s snaps late in the season. This has led some to speculate that Oakland could give Pryor the start in their meaningless season finale.

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Cardinals Injury Report: Brian Hoyer Will Start for Arizona

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The Arizona Cardinals quarterback carousel continues into their final game of the season against the San Francisco 49ers, as the team has announced Brian Hoyer will be under center this Sunday, according to Mike Jurecki of XTRA 910.

The Cardinals have used a mix of John Skelton, Kevin Kolb and Ryan Lindley throughout the 2012 season. Each has either dealt with injuries, ineffectiveness or both. After getting off to a 4-0 start, mostly thanks to the play of the defense, Arizona has proceeded to go 1-10 over the last 11 games.

Hoyer saw action last weekend for the Cardinals, going 11 for 19 with 105 yards and one interception against the Chicago Bears. It was his first action of the season, as he was claimed but did not suit up for the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier in the year.

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Jets Injury Report: Greg McElroy Hurt; Will Tim Tebow Play?

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New York Jets coach Rex Ryan said yesterday that quarterback Greg McElroy is dealing with an abdominal injury, putting into question whether Tim Tebow or Mark Sanchez will see playing time in the team’s season finale against the Buffalo Bills, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

Via multiple reports, Ryan said Wednesday that McElroy has an abdominal issue.  (Given that he was sacked 11 times on Sunday, it’s surprising he still has an abdomen at all.)

At this point McElroy is still expected to start Sunday against the Bills, but his injury throws into question the possibility of Tebow or Sanchez seeing action in the finale.

After the Jets decided to bench Sanchez, McElroy got the nod over Tebow last weekend against the San Diego Chargers. The second-year player completed 14 of his 24 pass attempts for 185 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.


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Packers Injury Report: Randall Cobb to Test Knee Friday

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Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb was limited at practice Wednesday and will once again participate on a limited basis today. However, coach Mike McCarthy said the talented wide out will test his injuries on Friday to see whether or not he’s fit to play this weekend against the Minnesota Vikings, reports Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Cobb will be limited today and tomorrow and then Friday will test to see how he's doing. In addition to ankle injury, his knee is hurt, too.

Beyond the ankle injury Cobb sustained last weekend against the Tennessee Titans, the wide receiver is also dealing with an injured knee, according to Silverstein. For this reason, it may be more likely that Green Bay elects to keep him sidelined for their final game of the regular season.

The second-year wide out is in the midst of a breakout campaign. So far this season Cobb has caught 80 passes for 954 yards and eight touchdowns while playing a key role in the Packers’ return game.


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Ravens Injury Report: Ray Lewis Added to Roster; Won’t Play

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While the Ravens decided to move linebacker Ray Lewis from the short-term injured reserve list to the 53-man roster, the future Hall of Famer still isn’t going to suit up Sunday when Baltimore takes on the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.

The Ravens have moved Lewis from short-term injured reserve to the 53-man roster, but they have already announced that he will not play Sunday.

Lewis had to be activated and added to the team’s 53-man roster this week if he was going to suit up during the playoffs. While he hasn’t managed to retake the field during the regular season, the Ravens still hope Lewis can return for the playoffs.

Lewis has been out since Week 6 when he sustained a triceps tear. The injury was initially thought to be of the season-ending variety, but the veteran linebacker is now poised to return for another round of postseason play.


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Patriots Injury Report: Rob Gronkowski ‘Not Ready Yet’

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While New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski has been back at practice for over a week now, coach Bill Belichick told reporters, including Mike Whitmer of the Boston Globe, that Gronk won’t play in a game until he’s cleared medically, which hasn’t happened yet.

"He did more last week than he did the week before, and we’ll see where he’s at today and tomorrow when we go out there, see what he can do," Belichick said on Wednesday, prior to the team's practice. "We’ll take it day-to-day, based on where he’s at. He’s moving along, not ready yet."

Ideally, Gronkowski will receive a few live game snaps prior to the playoffs, according to Whitmer. The tight end broke his forearm during a Nov. 18 contest against the Indianapolis Colts and has been sidelined since. Prior to his injury he caught 53 passes for 748 yards and 10 touchdowns this season.


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Texans Injury Report: Arian Foster Cleared to Return

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Houston Texans running back Arian Foster exited last Sunday’s contest against the Minnesota Vikings due to an irregular heartbeat. Earlier in the week, Foster was cleared by doctors to return to practice and participated in yesterday’s session, according to Tania Ganguli of the Houston Chronicle.

As expected, Texans running back Arian Foster was cleared and, according to Texans coach Gary Kubiak, participated in all his scheduled repetitions at practice today.

Foster exited last weekend’s game in the third quarter due to the irregular heartbeat. Trainers cleared Foster to return to the contest in the fourth quarter, but coach Gary Kubiak kept the running back sidelined for the remainder as a precautionary measure.

Foster visited with cardiologists earlier in the week who confirmed that he was alright. Considering Houston is still in a battle with the Denver Broncos for the No. 1 seed in the AFC, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Foster suit up this weekend.


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Vikings Injury Report: Adrian Peterson Misses Practice

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Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson missed practice Wednesday due to an abdomen injury, reports Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

While it’s never good to be absent from practice due to injury-related reasons, it’s clear that Peterson will suit up Sunday when the Vikings take on the Green Bay Packers, according to Florio.

Peterson undoubtedly will play; Frazier already shared that information with Peter King on Sunday, after the Vikings knocked off the Texans.

Not only will the Vikings be playing for a shot at the playoffs, but Peterson is chasing history. More specifically, the running back will be attempting to break Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record.

Beyond Peterson, Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (shoulder, illness) missed practice, as did cornerback Antoine Winfield, who’s recovering from a fractured hand and a knee injury.


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