STANBACK OUT

Calvin Watkins, of the Dallas Morning News, reports Dallas Cowboys WR Isaiah Stanback (foot) may not participate in practice until training camp after having foot surgery. Stanback wants to be completely healthy before he returns to practice.

WILFORD LISTED AS STARTER

Vito Stellino, of the Florida Times-Union, reports Jacksonville Jaguars WR Ernest Wilford has been practicing with the first-team offense during offseason workouts.

NAVARRE SHOWS PROGRESSION

Indianapolis Colts quarterback John Navarre is continuing the ongoing process of trying to learn the team’s somewhat-complicated offensive system. After beginning his NFL career as a seventh-round draft choice of the Arizona Cardinals in 2004, the 6-foot-6, 240-pound Navarre was signed to a free-agent contract by Indianapolis on March 12. The former University of Michigan signal-caller has moved from one team with a strong crops of young receivers to a veteran group that includes two of the league’s best in Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne.

GARRET TO BE MORE AGGRESSIVE ON O

The Cowboys are expected to be more aggressive in the passing game under Jason Garrett. And with the weapons the Cowboys have, including receivers Terry Glenn and Patrick Crayton to go along with Witten and Terrell Owens, Witten said they have the potential to be very explosive. Add in the trust he has with quarterback and longtime friend Tony Romo, and Witten can't contain his excitement for the upcoming season. But it all starts with him. He's working hard to be a bigger threat, especially in the red zone.

Source: Ben Maller

BIG BEN WANTS MORE SHOTGUN

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger wants to use the no-huddle offense more often. It was a big topic during training camp last year but never really materialized during the season. He believes it will in 2007. "I like the way he wants to run the no-huddle," Roethlisberger said. "Last year, we talked and talked and talked about doing it and never did it. We did it in the preseason against coach [Mike] Tomlin and Minnesota -- we marched down the field and I was done for the rest of the game. It was great. And then we never saw it. "I like that he wants to do that and I truly believe this year that we will do it."

Source: Ben Maller

TRENT GREEN UPDATE

The Dolphins aren't calling the Chiefs. The Chiefs aren't calling the Dolphins. And now, even attempts by quarterback Trent Green's agent to serve as a mediator have failed.

Indeed, this figurative game of chess remains as boring and strategic as the real thing. Maybe agent Jim Steiner's latest comments will help spice up talks once more.

Steiner said Thursday night he believes the Dolphins are willing to slightly increase the worth of their offer, turning the sixth-round pick on the table into a conditional pick.

''I think they'd be willing to conditionalize the sixth-round pick,'' said Steiner, who spoke to the Dolphins as recently as Thursday afternoon. ``They could make it higher based on performance [during the 2007 season].''

LEWIS APOLOGIZES

Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has apologized for comments he made on Dan Patrick's ESPN radio show about Cincinnati police possibly profiling his players.

"Yesterday, I gave a radio interview and made some comments that did not illustrate the high regard I have for the Cincinnati Police Department," Lewis said in a statement released by the team, which has been plagued by run-ins with the law. "I apologize that what I said did not reflect my true feelings."

LYNCH LISTED BEHIND A-TRAIN

The Bills’ high-profile rookies were in backup roles in Tuesday’s practice. Anthony Thomas was starting at running back, and was followed on the field by Shaud Williams. Marshawn Lynch saw snaps with the second unit. Linebacker Paul Posluszny was the second-team middle linebacker, playing between Coy Wire and Mario Haggan. John DiGiorgio was the starting middle linebacker.

Kiwaukee Thomas held down the starting cornerback spot vacated by Nate Clements. Ryan Neufeld joined Robert Royal as the second tight end in the two-tight end set. Brad Cieslak and Kevin Everett were the two tight ends with the second unit.

BACHELOR RETIRES

It appears The Bachelor has found a more attractive suitor.

Quarterback Jesse Palmer — perhaps best known for his rose-dispensing turn on the U.S. reality television series — has retired from the Canadian Football League to pursue a broadcasting career in the U.S.

LEWIS ACCUSES LEAGUE OF PROFILING

Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said on a national radio interview Wednesday that he believes local law enforcement profiles his players.

Lewis, speaking on the Dan Patrick Show on ESPN Radio, used wide receiver Chris Henry's incident with Cincinnati police on March 25 as an example. Henry was stopped at 1100 Vine St. on March 25 for failing to use a turn signal. Henry was subsequently issued citations for driving without a license and failing to wear a seatbelt.

All of the citations were later dropped.

"I think there's profiling, no question," Lewis said. "We're (Cincinnati) a small place - our guys stand out, and they know that, and you've got to do things the right way. But when you are arrested for, or you are pulled over for, not putting on your turn signal, there's something wrong there.

"Many people make right turns without putting on their turn signals and it's unfortunate that we've had a guy that's pulled over for not putting on his turn signal."

ADAMS VISITS RAMS

Nick Wagoner, of StLouisRams.com, reports the St. Louis Rams met with unrestricted free-agent DT Sam Adams (Bengals) Thursday, May 24.

BREASTON STRUGGLES

Darren Urban, of the East Valley Tribune, reports Arizona Cardinals WR Steve Breaston has been struggling as a receiver during the team's practices.

JENKINS STILL ON THE MARKET

Charles Chandler, of the Charlotte Observer, reports agent Drew Rosenhaus said he believes Carolina Panthers DT Kris Jenkins is still on the trading block and can be had for the right price. General manager Marty Hurney said there have been no discussions about Jenkins.

LACK OF EVIDENCE AGAINST VICK

The Associated Press reports the prosecutor in charge of investigating whether property owned by Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Vick was part of a dog fighting operation said he still does not have solid evidence to link Vick to dog fighting. Surry County Commonwealth's Attorney Gerald Poindexter said, "I know everybody is saying, 'When are those fools in Surry County going to get up off their butts and do something?' But what are we going to do?" Poindexter said there are no eyewitnesses who say they saw dog fighting at the home. Poindexter said he is proceeding carefully with this case. He had another dog fighting case a few years back, but he lost the case because of an illegal search.

DRAFT PICKS SIGN

Chicago signed the 5th member of its 2007 draft class inking OT Aaron Brandt, a 7th round pick this year. Meanwhile, San Francisco signed DE Jay Moore, a 4th round pick, while Miami signed LB Kelvin Smith, another 7th round pick.

Source: GBN Report

SB UPDATE

The upcoming Super Bowl schedule now looks like this: Super Bowl XLII, Feb. 3, 2008 at University of Phoenix Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals (to air on Fox); Super Bowl XLIII on Feb. 1, 2009 at Tampa’s James Raymond Stadium (NBC); Super Bowl XLIV on Feb. 7, 2010 at Dolphin Stadium in South Florida (CBS); Super Bowl XLV in North Texas, Feb. 6, 2011 (Fox).

LORENZO BOOKER NEWS

The Dolphins must hope third-round pick Lorenzo Booker's production matches his confidence. Booker has called himself the ''most versatile back'' in April's draft and identified likely future Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk as a player with similar skills that he hopes to become: ``I create mismatches. That's important to line me up on a linebacker to make defenses pull their hair out.'' The question is whether Booker can carry a heavy load if Ronnie Brown is injured. ''He's natural finding a hole,'' draftnik and ex-Browns scout Russ Lande said. But ``size [5-10, 191 pounds] and durability are always going to be a huge question mark.''

Source: Ben Maller

TJ DUCKETT NEWS

Practicing in the Lions' offseason training program is a marathon and a sprint for T.J. Duckett. Training camp is more than two months away, and Duckett is getting in shape in short bursts. Every time Duckett takes a handoff and breaks through the line, he sprints through the open field. He might run 30, 40 or 50 yards each carry -- sometimes all the way to the end zone. "It's just to get in shape and prepare for every situation," Duckett said after Tuesday's practice, which does not include tackling. "In practice, you can't get that open-field running as it comes in a game. You try to simulate that now. "You run. You visualize if someone's coming from behind, if someone has an angle. You just visualize any possible situation.

Source: Ben Maller

BROWN REPORT BOGUS

Peter Schaeffer, who represents Chad Brown, continues to deny a report from last week stating the free agent linebacker had come to terms with the Pats. “(There’s) no deal,” Schaeffer said via e-mail. “I don’t know where the report came from.” Schaeffer, however, did not respond when asked if there had at least been discussions or contact between the Pats and his client.

Source: Ben Maller

RIGGS JR. RELEASED

The NFL Network reports the Chicago Bears have released RB Gerald Riggs Jr.

MEACHEM DROPS WEIGHT

Larry Holder, of the Biloxi Sun-Herald, reports New Orleans Saints WR Robert Meachem has dropped to 218 pounds and would like to lose another 10 pounds. "I've been having to ride the bike for... 30 minutes a day (also exercising in the pool). I've dropped a lot of weight. I dropped almost 11 pounds the first day," Meachem said.

MOULDS TO TITANS?

Adam Schefter of NFL Network reports that receiver Keyshawn Johnson wanted a two-year deal worth $12 million from the Tennessee Titans.

When he didn't get it, he opted for retirement.

Schefter says that the wideout-challenged Titans will now take a look-see at veteran Eric Moulds to help give quarterback Vince Young some alternatives to dumping it off to a back or a tight end -- or pulling it down and running.

Q & A WITH HERM

Q: Trent Green met with the media yesterday and he said he felt you were not being honest with him when you're saying it's going to be a fair competition.

EDWARDS: "Well, I met with Trent and I'm not going to comment on what Trent told you guys."

Q: Do you think if he does stay with this team and goes to training camp is it equal competition between Brodie (Croyle), Trent and Damon (Huard)?

EDWARDS: "It's equal competition at that position, at the wide receiver position, at the defensive line position – a lot of different positions we have to make some decisions on who are going to be our starters, who's going to be the backup guys.

"You know this team has been together for six years. We can't lose sight of that. It's won 53 games; it's been to two playoff appearances, one at home that it lost to Indianapolis and one on the road that it lost that's on my watch against Indianapolis. With that being said, there are some things that I have to do that are a little bit different now that I didn't do last year. That's my job as the head coach: to make this a competitive environment where guys understand that you have to compete at the professional level and there are certain positions that you have to create competition. That's just one of them. We're making a big deal out of this position, but there are a lot of other positions that guys are competing for to see if they're going to be the starter, the back-up guy.

"I've always been fair when I've been put in this situation. I came in the league and learned from a guy named Dick Vermeil how to be fair with players. That's what I'm going to do. I've always been that way and every player I've coached will tell you that."

Q: Is this becoming disruptive? Trent says it's awkward for him, awkward for his teammates?

EDWARDS: "It's kind of funny because this is New York for me every day. So, no. If players can't handle distractions you know what? It's going to be tough for them to be very good in this league. Most veteran guys bring that to the table. They can deal with distractions.

"We're talking about the off-season. Are you kidding me? This is the off-season and we've had one practice and all of a sudden we think it's a distraction? This is not a distraction in any stretch of the imagination.

"We will have a starting football team when we go to Houston (September 9). 46 guys will dress and they will be the best 46 guys, in my opinion, who will help us win games."

Source: KCChiefs.com

KEYSHAWN TO BE ALL ACCESS

That's right, Johnson's lucrative, broad-based announcing deal could include stints on ABC programs such as Dancing With Stars, Live With Regis And Kelly (as a fill-in host) and ABC News, as well as ESPN's NBA coverage.

It was an offer he couldn't refuse, which is why Johnson is announcing his retirement Wednesday afternoon at USC's Heritage Hall after 11 NFL seasons. Released by the Carolina Panthers shortly after last month's NFL draft -- an event he covered for ESPN, in what turned out to be the first weekend of the rest of his life.

Johnson considered a two-year, $8 million offer from the Tennessee Titans (the Oakland Raiders were also expected to make a competitive offer in the next few days). Ultimately he decided to set his sights on attaining another of his childhood dreams.

"I wanted to be in the entertainment business," Johnson said Wednesday morning. "This isn't just football stuff;

GALLERY PRACTICES AT GUARD

Jerry McDonald, of ANG Newspapers, reports Oakland Raiders OT Robert Gallery practiced at left guard during the Raiders' organized team activities Wednesday, May 23.

CLARK HARRIS COULD BE THE MAN

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports Green Bay Packers TE Bubba Franks is fighting for a roster spot, let alone the starting tight end position.

DILLON DECESION NOT YET CONFIRMED

Karen Guregian, of the Boston Globe, reports unrestricted free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) has not filed his retirement papers with the league yet. Dillon's agent said he is leaning toward retirement, but would like to wait until summer to make a decision.

WILLIAMSON HAS VISION PROBLEM

Mark Craig, of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, reports Minnesota Vikings WR Troy Williamson said, during his visit to Nike's corporate headquarters, he was told that is right eye was weaker than his left eye. Williamson was prescribed drills that will help strengthen his right eye.

GANNON TO ATTEND VIKINGS OTA'S

Mike Wobschall, of Vikings.com, reports Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress has invited former NFL QB Rich Gannon to attend some of the Vikings' workouts to help the team's quarterbacks.

KEYSHAWN TO SIGN WITH ESPN

Updating a previous item, ESPNews reports free-agent WR Keyshawn Johnson (Panthers) will accept a job with ESPN

BRYANT HAS WORKOUT WITH BUCS

Jim Flynn and Scott Reynolds, of PewterReport.com, report the Tampa Bay Buccaneers worked out unrestricted free-agent WR Antonio Bryant (49ers) Wednesday, May 23.

SHOCKEY RETURNS TO MIAMI

Steve Serby, of the New York Post, reports New York Giants TE Jeremy Shockey said he was working out in Miami because he wanted to practice on natural grass so he could stay healthy. Shockey has worked with QB Eli Manning since he joined the team last week.

MCBRIDE SIGNS

Updating a previous report, Bob LeGere, of the Daily Herald, reports the Chicago Bears have signed seventh-round pick CB Trumaine McBride to a four-year deal worth $1,710,250. The deal also includes a $55,250 signing bonus.

REPORT: HENRY DID NOT FAIL TEST

Mark Curnutte, of the Cincinnati Enquirer, reports a drug test on Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry performed by the Kentucky Division of Probation & Parole came back negative. "In recent days, there have been published and broadcast reports that Chris Henry failed a drug test. This information did not come from the state Division of Probation & Parole. Repeated referrals to our office by the Kenton County Attorney's office were wrong. The Kenton County Attorney's Office has no jurisdiction in our probation supervision of Henry. Our office did, however, receive results of a drug test conducted on Henry today, and those results were negative," the state report said in a released statement Wednesday, May 23.

KEYSHAWN TO RETIRE

ESPN.com reports free-agent WR Keyshawn Johnson (Panthers) is expected to announce his retirement from the National Football League Wednesday, May 23, after 11 seasons. Johnson has declined a contract offer from the Tennessee Titans. He is expected to pursue a career in broadcasting.

LSU QB SUSPENDED

LSU sophomore QB Ryan Perrilloux, once the top-rated recruit in the country, has been suspended indefinitely after he was cited for trying to illegally enter a riverboat casino in Baton Rouge. Perrilloux was issued a misdemeanor summons by police after allegedly trying to use his older brother's driving license to enter the casino.

Source: GBN Report

SCOTT RELEASED

Tampa Bay has released former Georgia Tech CB Kenny Scott, one of the higher rated undrafted free agents in the 2007 draft class.

CJ LEAK SIGNS WITH BUCS

Former college QB C.J. Leak (Wake Forest and Tennessee) agreed to terms with Tampa Bay yesterday after a successful rookie minicamp two weeks ago. Leak, brother of Bears rookie QB Chris Leak and was a member of the Bills practice squad last season, will play TE. The Bucs consequently released rookie CB Kenny Scott.

KEVIN JONES UPDATE

Detroit Lions RB Kevin Jones has had two of the three pins removed from his surgically repaired left foot. "That one stays in," Jones said. "It's not anywhere where it's going to affect me from flexing it at all." Jones said he was still on target to return for training camp. He has been running gassers at half speed, as well as riding a stationary bike and working in the weight room. "The best thing for running and getting in shape is running," Jones said. "I'll be a little bit behind, but it won't take me too long."

KELLEN WINSLOW UPDATE

Cleveland Browns TE Kellen Winslow is still recovering from offseason knee surgery. He came out onto the field during practice today and watched the last 50 minutes of practice after finishing his rehabilitation work. HC Romeo Crennel said Winslow is "doubtful" for the full-squad minicamp, set for June 12-14. "His target date is training camp," Crennel said.

ORLANDO PACE UPDATE

Orlando Pace is taking it slowly during spring workouts, participating in walk-through drills but avoiding contact. He said the doctors have told him that he should be 100 percent by the time training camp begins in late July. "This is kind of uncharted territory for me, and it's difficult," Pace said. "They just told me to be patient, be smart about it."

The No. 1 overall selection in the 1997 draft, Pace never missed a game because of injury at Ohio State and had sat out just seven times since becoming the Rams' full-time starter in '98. The longest he'd been out was three games. Spending the final seven games on the sideline last year hurt almost as much as the painful rehab that Pace has endured the last few months.

"That's probably the first time in my life somebody's telling you you're not well enough to play football," said Pace, who turned 31 two days after he was injured. "It was just hard going to the games and watching ... really rough."

Source: Ben Maller

SHOCKEY SPEAKS

Jeremy Shockey flew in from Miami under the radar like a stealth bomber late last week to participate in the Giants' offseason program, to the delight of quarterback Eli Manning and Tom Coughlin and his coaches.

"My only goal is to win a championship, and I can't do that injured," Shockey told The Post yesterday. "The No. 1 way to stay healthy is for me work on natural grass."

Shockey said he is in the best shape of his life after another winter of spartan workouts on the natural grass at his Miami (Fla.) alma mater.

"I hope the fans can understand my point of view," Shockey said. "I hope my teammates and coaches can understand my point of view. I'm not going to change my workout routine. I'm not going to change my philosophy of working out.

"You'll never see me report to training camp out of shape. If that ever happens, I'll be the first one to relocate my workout routine."

Source: NY Post

FRYE EXPECTS TO START

BEREA, Ohio (AP) -- As far as Charlie Frye is concerned, he's the Cleveland Browns' No. 1 quarterback.

Brady Quinn, grab a seat.

Frye began battling Quinn, Derek Anderson and Ken Dorsey for the starting job Tuesday as the Browns kicked off three weeks of organized-team-activity practices, the first full-team workouts in preparation for the 2007 season.

Frye spent an extra 40 minutes after practice working with the other QBs, then walked off the field and stated without hesitation that he expects to be under center when the Browns open on Sept. 9 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

"I really can't predict the future, but I'm preparing like I'm the starter," Frye said. "I never knew I lost it."

ARIZONA COULD LAND SB IN 2011

The Associated Press reports the Arizona group trying to have the 2011 Super Bowl be played in Arizona will likely try to get the 2012 Super Bowl to come to Arizona, since they failed to be picked for the game in 2011.

TRENT GREEN UPDATE

ESPNews reports Kansas City Chiefs QB Trent Green said it is "incredibly frustrating" a deal has not been done that would send him to the Miami Dolphins. Green said he is still banking on the thought process a deal will be done and he'll join the Dolphins. He noted the Chiefs have said what direction they want to go since February, and they've made it clear they want to become younger at the quarterback position.

T.TAYLOR JOINS THE SILVER & BLACK

Adam Schefter, of NFL.com, reports the Oakland Raiders have signed unrestricted free-agent WR Travis Taylor (Vikings). Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

SEAU CONTRACT FIGURES

Updating previous reports, Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have re-signed unrestricted free-agent LB Junior Seau to a one-year deal worth $1 million in base salary. Seau could also make $100,000 in incentives, but there is no signing bonus.

VINNY-T SIGHTING

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports unrestricted free-agent QB Vinny Testaverde (Patriots) has been seen at the New England Patriots' passing camp this week.

MORENCY POSITIONS HIMSELF AS LEAD MAN

Packers' running back Vernand Morency is coming into camp knowing that he has every opportunity to win the starting job. He helped his cause this offseason by adding 10 pounds of "lean muscle" and is now up to 220.

Those additional 10 pounds could make a world of difference when it comes to shedding would-be tacklers. So long as his speed isn't negatively affected, he could legitimately improve on his 4.5 yards per carry average.

The only real obstacle Morency faces from now to the start of the season is winning the job. Rookie running back Brandon Jackson has gotten rave reviews, while there have also been a few reports that the Packers could use a running back by committee.

TYNES DEALT TO G-MEN

The Kansas City Chiefs have announced they have traded PK Lawrence Tynes to the New York Giants for future considerations.

NORTH TEXAS AWARDED 2011 SB

ESPN.com reports North Texas has been awarded the right to host Super Bowl XLV in 2011. The game will be played in the Dallas Cowboys' new stadium in Arlington, which is due to open in 2009.

HICKS JOINS JETS

The New York Jets announced Tuesday, May 22, that they have signed free-agent DL Eric Hicks (Chiefs). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

HENRY COULD FACE 1-YR SUSPENSION

Mark Curnutte, of the Cincinnati Enquirer, reports Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry could be facing a one-year suspension should he be guilty of a third violation of the league's substance-abuse policy. Kenton County prosecutors are awaiting final results of Henry's drug test, which is being analyzed by a Kentucky state lab.

PACK RB ATTACK

According to the author of this article, six running backs on the Green Bay Packers roster are competing for three roster spots on the team. With RB Vernand Morency and RB Brandon Jackson all but locks to secure two of those spots, that would leave running backs Arliss Beach, DeShawn Wynn, Noah Herron and P.J. Pope battling for the third and final roster spot.

BENGALS ISSUE STATEMENT

In response to the allegations about WR Chris Henry failing a drug test and facing jail time, the Cincinnati Bengals released a statement saying, "For Chris Henry to return playing NFL football, the Bengals understand that he must comply with certain legal and NFL-related procedures. To date, to the Club's knowledge, Chris has been complying with those procedures, and the Club is not aware at this point of any circumstance in which Chris has not complied with his obligations. With respect to the Northern Kentucky proceedings, reports to date may not be based on complete information. More information is expected to be made available shortly, once all the procedural tests are complete, and the club will await any action until that information has been released."

TATE RELEASED

The NFL Network reports the St. Louis Rams have released QB Drew Tate.

TOP QB TRANSFERS TO USC

Just what ‘beleaguered’ USC needs, another top young player. QB Mitch Mustain, one of the top recruits in the country in 2006, has transferred from Arkansas to Southern California. Mustain, who will have three years of eligibility remaining after sitting out next season, is enrolled at USC for summer school and attending classes.

Source: GBN Report

NFL DRAFT NEWS

The draft will be front and center at the NFL owners spring meeting in Nashville later today. On the agenda is a proposal to trim the time teams currently have to make their early round selections. Teams currently are allotted 15 minutes for a first-round selection and 10 during the second, but that has come under scrutiny after the first round of the 2007 draft lastest over six hours, the longest in history. The owners could also discuss the possibility of moving the draft out of New York.

Source: GBN Report

CHRIS HENRY UPDATE

Updating previous reports, The Associated Press reports more tests are required to determine whether or not Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry failed a drug test.

DUNGY WANTS TO KEEP TWO-BACK SYSTEM

Tom James, of the Terre Haute Star-Tribune, reports Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy would like to continue to use the two-back system that they implemented last season. The starter will be RB Joseph Addai, while RB DeDe Dorsey and RB Kenton Keith will compete for the No. 2 running back job.

BILLS INK WEBSTER

WGR 550 AM reports the Buffalo Bills signed free-agent CB Jason Webster (Falcons). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

BENGALS RELEASE NICHOLSON

CINCINNATI (Ticker) -- The Cincinnati Bengals apparently have had their fill with A.J. Nicholson.

Just hours after Nicholson pleaded not guilty to charges of domestic violence, the Bengals released the talented but troubled linebacker on Monday.

Nicholson, 23, was arrested Friday after allegedly striking a woman in the face at his apartment.

According to the Bengals' official web site, the woman recanted her statement Monday, but the Kenton District Court chose not to drop the case.

It was not the first time that Nicholson had a run-in with the law. Two months ago, the 23-year-old pleaded no contest to burglary and grand theft after being charged with breaking into the apartment of a former teammate at Florida State. He had to serve 60 days in a sheriff's work program and was placed on two-year probation.

Nicholson also was involved in an off-field incident as a player at Florida State. He was suspended for the 2006 Orange Bowl for violating team policy by taking a woman to the team's Miami hotel. She accused him of sexual assault, but Nicholson was not charged.

A fifth-round draft pick in 2006, Nicholson played in just two games for Cincinnati last season.

The 240-pound Nicholson likely would have struggled for a roster spot this year with the Bengals, who boast a revamped linebacking corps which includes Edgerton Hartwell, Caleb Miller, Ahmad Brooks, Rashad Jeanty, Landon Johnson and Odell Thurman.

HARRELL SITS

Mike Spofford, of Packers.com, reports Green Bay Packers DT Justin Harrell (bicep) didn't participate in any of the team's 11-on-11 drills during minicamp as a precaution. Harrell is recovering from a torn bicep and hopes to get medical clearance by the start of OTAs in June.

CHRIS HENRY RUMOR

WKRC-TV reports that there's now a chance that Bengals receiver Chris Henry has not tested positive for opiates.

Garry Edmondson, a prosecutor in Kenton County, Kentucky, said earlier on Monday that Henry had tested positive. But now Edmondson is signing a different song.

He now says that one result was negative (which is positive) and the other result is pending.

Edmondson wouldn't say who told him that there was a positive result.

WOODSON LEAVES CAMP

The Green Bay Packers may have seen the last of cornerback Charles Woodson until training camp opens in late July. After practicing Friday and Saturday morning, Woodson was absent from the Saturday afternoon workout inside the Don Hutson Center, and a Packers spokesman said Woodson had been excused for "personal reasons." ... Woodson said Friday he was not going to attend the team's technically voluntary 12 organized team activity practices that begin May 31, choosing instead to work out on his own in Houston as he did last year.

Source: Ben Maller

CHAD GREENWAY UPDATE

One Viking who is optimistic that defensive end Erasmus James, who had knee surgery twice, will return to action this year is linebacker Chad Greenway, who also had knee surgery and has been rehabbing with the No. 1 draft choice from Wisconsin. "After his surgery, we were rehabbing basically the same time every day together," said Greenway. "So, we've been through it, the hard parts together, but he had to go back in and have that little extra surgery which slowed him down a little bit. But I know he's feeling a lot better now, and he's looking forward to getting back for training camp. Absolutely, I think with the will he has and the type of person he is, I have no doubt that he'll be back."

Source: Ben Maller

TONY UGOH UPDATE

Tarik Glenn has been one of the constants for the Colts over the last 10 seasons, starting at left tackle for all but six games, protecting the blind side of quarterback Peyton Manning. Yet in a reflection of the way successful teams operate in today's NFL, the Colts are already planning for his potential departure. Glenn is entering the final year of his contract and is scheduled to make $4.5 million. With that in mind, the Colts traded their 2008 first-round draft choice for a 2007 second-round choice and selected Arkansas's Tony Ugoh. The Colts, who return their top eight linemen this season, will ease Ugoh into the mix this year and use him as leverage if negotiations with Glenn don't head in the direction they want.

Source: Ben Maller

CHRIS BROWN UPDATE

Free agent running back Chris Brown, whose representatives had preliminary discussions with the Patriots last month, is in a holding pattern and might be more inclined to wait until a team suffers an injury at the position before signing. The Bears, Colts, Packers, and Titans have also inquired but Brown, perhaps the top free agent running back available, hasn't made a visit because no team is offering the type of contract that will get him on a plane.

TANK JOHNSON UPDATE

The Bears expect the worst and hope for the best for Tank Johnson. Word is expected from commissioner Roger Goodell's office this week on a possible suspension. "We'll deal with it. We know it's coming and that's enough for us," coach Lovie Smith said at the conclusion of minicamp Sunday. "When it does, we'll deal with it then." The Bears hope their own backing of Johnson through his probation violation and 60 days in jail soften up the commissioner. They're also hoping the two games Johnson missed last season for what essentially was a team-mandated suspension carries some weight. Finally, they believe Johnson's pledge to clean up his act in a meeting with Goodell on Wednesday will make a difference.

Source: Ben Maller

COLTS SEARCH FOR #2 RB

According to Tristar.com, Kenton Keith and DeDe Dorsey are both trying to win that back-up role behind starter Joseph Addai. Dorsey is a second-year player with the Colts, while Keith is a former Canadian Football League standout. Keith (26) spent the last four seasons playing with the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders, where he ran the ball for 3,811 yards and 21 touchdowns in just 54 career games.

BELL JOINS 'FINS

The Dolphins and restricted free agent safety Yeremiah Bell have reached an agreement on a one-year deal, Bell told Channel 7 on Sunday night.

Source: Miami Herald

BRIGGS: "SHOW THEM I'M REPLACEABLE

Before the Bears' three-day mini-camp that concluded Sunday, holdout Lance Briggs basically urged stand-in weak-side linebacker Jamar Williams to take his job. Please.

"I spoke with [Briggs] a couple of weeks ago," Williams said Sunday. "I told him, 'You've got to do what you've got to do.' He said, 'Go and show them I'm replaceable.' "

It's not exactly "Brian's Song," but the exchange among friends reflected the warm feelings Briggs and many Bears maintain for each other no matter how heated his dispute with the team gets.

But at the risk of disproving the theory that the world revolves around Briggs, Williams could have lined up on the wrong side every play and showed more rust than a beater car without having any effect on Briggs' leverage.

KIRCUS UNDER INVESTIGATION

Denver Broncos wide receiver David Kircus is being investigated in connection with an assault early Sunday.
Kircus, No. 87, was allegedly involved in a fight between two men in a residential neighborhood in Centennial, said Arapahoe County Sheriff Grayson Robinson.

Deputies were dispatched the neighborhood around 3:10 a.m., Robinson said.

No arrests have been made, pending a photo lineup that is scheduled to take place some time today.

"There’s an ongoing investigation and that’s all I know at this point," said Harvey Steinberg, Kircus’ lawyer. "I’m representing David and he’ll do what I tell him, that’s where we’re at."

The victim, a 26-year-old man, suffered facial injuries that required some minor surgery, Robinson said.

COLTS SEARCH FOR NEW CORNERS

The Indianapolis Colts have seen both of their starting cornerbacks from last year exit via free agency this offseason. Nick Harper is now in Tennessee and Jason David moved on to New Orleans. Marlin Jackson and Kevin Hayden, a first round and second round selection respectively from the 2005 draft, are expected to take on the starting roles.

GREEN LIKES NEW SCHEME

RB Ahman Green sometimes feels like he has been a Texan a long time since he played under Texans assistant head coach/offensive coordinator Mike Sherman, who was head coach at Green Bay before coming to Houston. Sherman brought his offense with him. "The comfort level is very high for me now," Green said. "The play book, I look at it and I can't believe it. I've been running this for the past seven or eight years. It takes no thought process."

Source: Jim Carley, houstontexans.com

REX GROSMMAN UPDATE

Rex Grossman made some excellent throws in the three practices (not counting the one that Brian Urlacher intercepted on Sunday). But what impressed me most were Grossman's fundamentals. He didn't throw off his back foot and he actually stepped up in the pocket and completed a strike to Mark Bradley on the sideline on one play. New quarterbacks coach Pep Hamilton has been working intensely with Grossman on stepping up in the pocket, which he rarely if ever did last season. Stepping up rather than backpedaling in the pocket will keep Grossman from throwing off his back foot and enable him to make a positive play when the first option isn't open, either with a pass to a secondary receiver or by scrambling.

Source: Larry Mayer, chicagobears.com

HENRY LEARNING SYSTEM

Much has been made of the Denver Broncos offensive line play, blocking system, and subsequent running game in recent memory. The list of 1,000 yard running backs has been well documented. Now it's newly signed free agent running back Travis Henry's turn. While Henry is looking forward to his opportunity with the much-heralded "Broncos' system", he admits it's a work-in-progress. "The No. 1 thing I've noticed is we're running outside zone and inside zone and that's my forte, but what I have to do is trust the linemen," Henry said as he came off the field Thursday. "I know they're going to be there, but this is my second day and you can tell I'm kind of timid on certain runs. The No. 1 key is to get in the flow with the offensive linemen."

Source: Mike Klis, Denver Post

JET ARRESTED

ESPN's Jeremy Schaap reports New York Jets CB Justin Miller was arrested Sunday, May 20, for allegedly punching a woman in a New York nightclub. He was apprehended after a police chase and charged with third-degree misdemeanor assault. Police said Miller was swinging at a man, but hit the woman after the man ducked. The woman has a laceration on her face and swelling and pain in her knee.

PACK MAY GO WITH RB COMMITTEE

Rob Demovsky, of the Green Bay Press Gazette, reports the Green Bay Packers could go with a running back by committee approach using RBs Vernand Morency and rookie Brandon Jackson sharing the bulk of the carries. However, that could change if one of them flashes something special on the field.

SEAU REPORTS FOR PHYSICAL

Free-agent LB Junior Seau showed up in New England today to take a physical and, pending his passing it, is expected to sign on for a second season as a Patriot. Seau's broken arm is said to be healed and it's anticipated that he'll stick around next week for the team's voluntary passing camps.

PATS SIGN LB

The Patriots and 15-year veteran linebacker Chad Brown have agreed to terms, according to a league source. The signing comes in the wake of a report that the Patriots have also come to terms with another vintage linebacker in Junior Seau. Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler and will provide added cover at either the outside or inside-linebacker spots.

PATS LOOKING AT BROWN

The Patriots have made contact with free agent Chris Brown but nothing is imminent in terms of bringing the 6-foot-3, 220-pound running back aboard to shore up the backfield.

"We've had some cursory conversations with the Patriots," said Wynn Silberman, who represents Brown. "They respect what Chris can do. They felt he may prove to be a nice fit in their offensive scheme, a nice complement to (Laurence) Maroney and the very legitimate backs they have, but at this point, we're in a little bit of a holding pattern. We want to make sure it's the right situation for Chris, and if Chris is going to be involved in a dual-back, or supporting role. We want to make sure he's contributing in the best way possible. We've agreed to sit tight, continue talking, and see what happens."

HESTER UPDATE

Larry Mayer, of ChicagoBears.com, reports Chicago Bears WR Devin Hester worked well at wide receiver during the team's minicamp. Hester split out wide, lined up in the slot and in the backfield at times. He caught every pass thrown to him during individual drills and was impressive during seven-on-seven drills and 11-on-11 drills.

MIN SIGNS ROOKIE QB

The Minnesota Vikings signed rookie quarterback Tyler Thigpen on Friday.
Thigpen, a seventh-round pick out of Coastal Carolina, impressed coaches with his arm strength and mobility during a rookie minicamp earlier this month and is the first of Minnesota's eight 2007 draft picks to sign a contract.

"It's a great relief to have the contract done and a weight off my shoulders," Thigpen said in a statement issued by the team. "Playing in the NFL some day is something every kid thinks about when they first pick up a football. It's like a dream come true to actually be in the NFL now and I look forward to getting to work and helping this team."

OLIVER ENTERING SUPPLEMENTAL DRAFT

Georgia CB Paul Oliver, who had been considered a potential first-day pick at the 2008 draft, has left school and will reportedly make himself eligible for this summer’s NFL supplemental draft. Oliver reportedly had been declared academically ineligible for the upcoming season. Oliver is listed at 6-0, 210 and reportedly runs the 40 in the low 4.4s; in 2006, he had 57 tackles and picked off three passes.

QB CHALLENGE TAKES PLACE THIS WEEKEND

Quarterback Jason Campbell will compete in the DirecTV NFL Quarterback Challenge in the Cayman Islands this weekend. It will air on ESPN on Friday, Aug. 3. The event also features Minnesota's Tarvaris Jackson, Detroit's Jon Kitna, Jacksonville's Byron Leftwich and San Francisco's Alex Smith.

GIANTS HIRE NEW SCOUT

The Giants have named Marc Ross as the team’s Director of College Scouting. Ross has been in the NFL for 11 years, including the last three as a national college scout for the Buffalo Bills. Ross technically replaces Jerry Reese, the Giants new G.M. who had retained the responsibilities of director of player personnel. That job has since been eliminated. As college scouting director, Ross will be in charge of the Giants’ college scouting department and the team’s draft.

BELL NAMED STARTER-FOR NOW.

Detroit RB Tatum Bell has taken over the starting job as RB Kevin Jones' status is uncertain while he recovers from an injured left foot. Whoever ends up starting at RB for the Lions could benefit from a more productive WR group after adding Calvin Johnson. "All he does is stretch the field in the passing game, and, I think more importantly, in the running game," QB Jon Kitna said.

ROOKIE GETS FIRST CRACK TO START

With the departure of Eric Moulds, a different WR will play opposite Andre Johnson for a third consecutive season in Houston. For now the front runner is Kevin Walter. HC Gary Kubiak said recently that he wished he had played Walter more during the 2006 season. Walter has been running with the first team during the first two days of OTA's, but a batch of hungry rookies is creating a wide-open competition for that number two position behind Johnson.

JACKSON READY TO LEAD VIKINGS

It appears that the Vikings are set to have QB Tarvaris Jackson lead the team this year. Contrary to published reports, the Vikings never made legitimate attempts to acquire QB Matt Schaub and David Carr. And with the seventh choice in the first round of this year's draft, the Vikings passed on Notre Dame QB Brady Quinn. "We felt strongly about [Jackson] when we drafted him, and we still do," HC Brad Childress said. In his two starts (both losses), Jackson completed 47 of 81 passes for 475 yards, with two TD passes and four INTs.

PETERSON INJURY UPDATE

Although rookie running back Adrian Peterson has been cleared to run by Minnesota Vikings team physicians, it was announced yesterday that there was a bit more to it. After a CT scan confirmed his progress, Vikings team physician Dr. Joel Boyd and trainer Eric Sugarman fully explained to reporters the history of Peterson's injury, including the revelation that he re-broke the clavicle early in the Fiesta Bowl loss to Boise State.

JOHNSON TAKING HIS TIME

Johnson flew into Nashville on Thursday and spent Friday meeting with team officials and reviewing the offense before flying to Los Angeles.

"At the end of the day ... we'll just see where it goes from here and do business," he told WTVF-TV. "I don't have any timetable, to be honest with you. There's no rush on my part. I came to meet the organization, meet the people, see the community and stuff like that."

GONZALEZ ABSENT

Wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez, the Colts' first-round draft pick, will be forced to miss the team's minicamp because the NFL is demanding he participate in the Rookie Premier event in Los Angeles. According to the Indianapolis Star, Gonzalez initially declined the invitation and planned to participate in the team's minicamp, but the NFL intervened and notified all 32 teams that the "invitation" must be honored, and that any player invited who did not participate in the event could not attend his team's minicamp. Gonzalez will also be forced to miss some of the Colts' summer school sessions because of his academic commitments at Ohio State.

BENTLY HEADED BACK TO THE SHOP

LeCharles Bentley is slated to have another surgery on his patella tendon June 4, but the Browns center has not yet decided to go ahead with what would be a season-ending procedure. "There's a chance he may opt not to do it," Browns GM Phil Savage told the Canton Repository. "By June 5, we'll know about '07, and '08 will still be out there as a question mark."

SCHEFFLER BREAKS FOOT

Broncos tight end Tony Scheffler's offseason took a turn for the worse on Friday. The sophomore broke a bone in his foot during minicamp, according to CBS 4 in Denver.

CULPEPPER BEGINS WORKOUTS

Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper practiced on a limited basis Friday and told the Associated Press he's certain he'll be able to take part in the Dolphins' minicamp in June. "It's small steps right now," he said. "I feel good. No real pain, which is a good sign. I just want to ease my way into it."

WHITE STILL HOBBLED

Tennessee RB LenDale White is still hampered by his injured hamstring he suffered last week. His status for next week's set of practices is unknown. "LenDale's injury is not severe; we just don't want to take a chance," HC Jeff Fisher said.

FAVRE SHOWS; JACKSON SKIPS

Green Bay Packers RB Brandon Jackson received an invitation to participate in this weekend's Premiere event in Los Angeles when the top selected skilled players have photo card shoots, endorsements and television exposure. The weekend comes attached with a $12,000 check. The Premiere event is scheduled during the Packers mini-camp. At 4 p.m. Thursday, though, a team official told him he would be banned from the Packers facility for the weekend. The Players Association and the Management Council ruled Jackson had to attend the Premiere event and couldn't practice with his teammates. "I'm being held out against my will," Jackson said.

SMITH REVEALS INJURY

Broncos WR Rod Smith stated Thursday that his ailing left hip is what caused him to lose a step last season. "Last year I couldn't even sleep ... because my leg was throbbing all night," Smith said. "So, basically, I stayed up the whole year last year and that's not good. That's what makes you old, when you're not getting any rest and you've got to go out here and fight with these young dudes." Smith also indicated that the hip, which he had surgically repaired in February, had been bothering him since 2004.

COACH: RICKY DONE WITH MIA

DAVIE, Fla. (AP) -- If Ricky Williams makes a comeback, it most likely will be with a new team.

Miami Dolphins coach Cam Cameron, speaking publicly about Williams' latest drug relapse for the first time, said nothing has changed regarding the suspended running back's status. But several Dolphins said they're ready to play without Williams, and Cameron acknowledged it's difficult to salvage the careers of troubled players.

"The easiest predictor of future behavior is previous behavior," Cameron said Friday. "Could I have made that statement 15 years ago? Absolutely not. I was trying to save every guy in the game.

"Ultimately it comes down to the team. You want to be as fair as you can be, but no individual comes above the team."

When asked what his batting average is trying to "save" troubled players, Cameron said, "Very low."