Giants' Smith injures shoulder, Lorenzen sprains ankle
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- New York Giants rookie receiver Steve Smith was knocked out of Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers with a shoulder injury.
Smith caught a 10-yard pass late in the first quarter and later left the field for X-rays, which disclosed an injury to his shoulder blade.
Smith was the Giants' second-round draft pick out of Southern California.
Backup quarterback Jared Lorenzen sprained an ankle on the Giants' final drive and was forced to leave the game around the two-minute warning. He was taken for X-rays, but the team had no immediate word on the extent of his injury.
Anthony Wright, the Giants No. 3 quarterback, replaced him.
Sunday Observations
Stiff Brees
Looking for a scapegoat for the Saints' lousy start? How about Devery Henderson, who dropped at least three passes on Sunday, including a catchable pass in the end zone. Then there's Drew Brees, who has looked tentative and uncharacteristically inaccurate. Let's also heap some blame on the coaching staff for failing to figure out how to puncture the Cover-2 defense. Enfeebled by that scheme in consecutive weeks, the Saints have provided a blueprint for future competitors. Still, I'm not ready to give up on the Saints. Their schedule is tremendously easy, and I have too much faith in Sean Payton's ability to dream up creative offenses.
Barren Barron
The Rams played much of last year without Orlando Pace, but that doesn't mean that the transition was smooth on Sunday. Scott Linehan made the decision to shuffle his line, with right tackle Alex Barron switching to the left side to protect Marc Bulger's blind side. The Niners consistently pressured Bulger, battering him often, and forcing many early throws. Bulger wasn't completely ineffective, but his offense was definitely less dynamic than it can be. Steven Jackson had just 60 rushing yards, hasn't scored this year, and hasn't topped 100 total yards in a game. I wouldn't give up on Jackson yet. The Rams offensive line will improve with more reps, and their schedule is very favorable.
Stop and Go Traffic
With two touchdowns on Sunday, Cadillac Williams got his first touchdown since week three of last year. The frustrating part is that many of his owners benched him after he was a game time decision with a rib injury. His track record of playing through injury left most of us skeptical that he'd start the game, let alone finish it.
Don't Debate Nate
The pick up of the week might be Nate Burleson, who scored on Sunday. D.J. Hackett ceded the starting job to Burleson by virtue of an ineffective preseason, and a high ankle sprain suffered in week one. And Deion Branch has yet to validate his expensive contract or the first-round pick Seattle paid to get him. Branch put up 100 yards on Sunday, but Burleson got the touchdown.
Cross Bowe
Sadly, scoring opportunities for Tony Gonzalez are few and far between. The Kansas City offense is as limited as Dane Cook's singing ability, and as his miserable offensive line forces him to spend a preponderance of his time blocking. So, when Dwayne Bowe stepped in front of Gonzo in the end zone and stole a touchdown pass that was headed into Gonzo's chest, his fantasy owners grimaced.
Candy Striper
Some fantasy owners have been harboring concern about whether Frank Gore would get work at the stripe. Last year, Gore lost the job after some costly fumbles early in the season. Eventually, Gore was able to restore confidence in his ball handling, and earned the job back. Considering his preseason hand injury, speculation surfaced that Gore might lose goal line looks out of concern that the hand injury would cause more fumbles. But to his credit, Gore has run well in all situations, and scored twice on Sunday. If you spent a draft pick on Michael Robinson hoping for some goal line work, it's time to cut him free.
Wounded Knee
Andre Johnson suffered a serious-looking knee injury in the fourth quarter of Sunday's blowout win. Johnson looked sensational through two games, and was thriving with new quarterback Matt Schaub. Johnson's injury will likely accelerate the development timetable for rookie Jacoby Jones, who has primarily been used in special teams so far. Jones had an impressive preseason, and will likely be given the opportunity to start opposite Kevin Walter during any games that Johnson misses. Your efforts to obtain Jones in the free agent pool should be directly proportional to the seriousness of Johnson's injury.
The Invisible Man
Thinking back to the last half of last season, many people spent a high draft pick on Lee Evans. But, those people probably failed to look at his schedule, which opened with Denver, Pittsburgh, and New England. As a result, he's totaled 5 and 17 yards in two games. In most scoring systems, that's a couple of zeroes on the scale of Seth and McLovin'. And now you're skittish to start him next week, too. So, after limping through the first three weeks, then what? I'd like to say that it's clear sailing, but there remain a number of tough matchups including games against Baltimore, Miami (twice), New England (again), and Jacksonville. There are still a lot of people who believe in Evans and should be able to find a trading partner/fleecee.
Speculation of the Week
Tarvaris Jackson ran for a score in a short yardage situation on Sunday. It fueled the following line of thinking in the Fanball offices: Chester Taylor was inactive (hip). Perhaps he is secretly the team's designated goal line back—maybe because they don't want Adrian Peterson to pick up the wear and tear of those tough yards. Rather than abandon the plan and use Peterson at the stripe, they ran Jackson. Ergo, when Taylor returns to health, he'll be the goal line guy. It's just speculation, but I'm running with it.
Dayne Knight
Ahman Green notched his first touchdown of the season, but you may have noticed that Ron Dayne got more carries. Don't panic. Nearly all of Dayne's carries were in mop-up time. Green remains safely ensconced as the starter. And, Green's touchdown came from inside the 10, suggesting that Green is also the designated goal line carrier.
MoLo
It seems hard to believe that Maurice Jones-Drew scored 15 times last year. Through two games he's failed to score, and he's only managed 31 and 32 rushing yards, and even less through the air. So, do you sell low on MoJo while he's still got some value? Do you buy while his value is down? Clearly, he's better than he's looked so far. But, in watching the Jaguars, I don't trust the rest of the components around him. David Garrard has looked fair, which I mean as a compliment. The Jaguars' offensive line has been lousy, opening few holes for MoJo or Fred Taylor. Following their Week Three trip to Denver the Jaguars have been blessed with a bye week to figure out ways in which to improve their blocking. The bye will also make MoJo's owners that much more itchy for a trade. It seems unlikely that Jacksonville will continue to struggle this much throughout the year. If you can buy low, do it.
A Wynner and a Loser
The Packers unveiled a new weapon, DeShaun Wynn, who looked promising in his first game with significant action. He's a rookie from Florida, drafted five rounds after Brandon Jackson. Wynn has a thick frame, making him a viable short-yardage option. He also galloped for a 38-yard touchdown, proving that he has the speed to get some separation. With Jackson squandering back-to-back opportunities to cement the starters job, I'd rather have Wynn.
Not That There's Anything Wrong With It
Those of you who have read this column in the past know I feel about Matt Schaub. Some people would accuse me of lying in bed and imaging scenarios where Schaub happens to have a flat tire outside my house. Hot and sweaty, he rings my doorbell looking for someone to help him work his jack. Hmmmm. The truth isn't too far from that. I'm happy to report that Schaub looks fantastic so far, with two-game totals of 450 yards and three touchdowns. In the preseason, I chose Schaub as my "sleeper of the year," and I'm sticking to my guns. Unless Andre Johnson misses a lot of time, Schaub will continue to develop into one of the better fantasy quarterbacks.
White and Brown, Black and White
LenDale White scored his first NFL touchdown on Sunday after getting back-to-back carries inside the five-yard-line. The frustrating part is that Chris Brown looked fantastic in week one, so everyone benched White. And, naturally, Brown did nothing, averaging less than three yards per carry. That leaves us with a muddy backfield situation, one that is likely to frustrate fantasy owners all season long.
Welcome, please, Enormous Genitals!
Many teams have a designated goal line back. The Lions have a designated goal line receiver, Calvin Johnson, who has scored in consecutive weeks. His absurd height and leaping ability make him very difficult to defend on jump balls, like the one we saw in the third quarter of his game on Sunday. Because the Lions are four deep at receiver, Johnson isn't going to have many games with six or more catches, or even many big yardage games. But he'll be reliable scorer, and that's the most important stat category to fantasy owners.
fanballnews.com
NFL Today, Week 2
ASSOCIATED PRESS
SCOREBOARD
Monday night, Sept. 17
Washington (1-0) at Philadelphia (0-1).
An early-season NFC East showdown with both teams missing key players sidelined by injuries.
STARS
Passing
-Brett Favre, Packers, won for the 149th time in his career, moving past Hall of Famer John Elway and leading the Green Bay Packers to a 35-13 win over the New York Giants.
-Derek Anderson, Browns, threw for five TDs, completing 20 of 33 passes for 328 yards in Cleveland's 51-45 win over Cincinnati. Carson Palmer, Bengals, threw for six TDs and 401 yards.
-Peyton Manning, Colts, threw for 312 yards and a touchdown to lead Indianapolis to a 22-20 win over Tennessee.
-Marc Bulger, Rams, was 24-for-41 for 368 yards and one touchdown in St. Louis' 17-16 loss to San Francisco.
Rushing
-Jamal Lewis, Browns, rushed for 215 yards to help Cleveland outlast Cincinnati 51-45.
-Edgerrin James, Cardinals, ran for 128 yards in Arizona's 23-20 win over Seattle.
-LaMont Jordan, Raiders, gained a career-best 159 yards on 25 carries in Oakland's 23-20 overtime loss to Denver.
-Travis Henry, Broncos, rushed for 128 yards to help Denver beat Oakland 23-20 in overtime.
-Frank Gore, 49ers, scored two touchdowns and gained 81 yards on 20 carries in San Francisco's 17-16 win over St. Louis a few days after his mother passed away.
-Willie Parker, Steelers, rushed for 126 yards and a TD in Pittsburgh's 26-3 win over Buffalo.
Receiving
-Braylon Edwards, Browns, had eight catches for 146 yards and two TDs in Cleveland's 51-45 win over Cincinnati.
-Joey Galloway, Buccaneers, caught four passes for 135 yards and two TDs in Tampa Bay's 31-14 win over New Orleans.
-Chad Johnson, Bengals, had 11 catches for 209 yards and two TDs in Cincinnati's 51-45 loss to Cleveland.
-Steve Smith, Panthers, had three TDs and 153 yards receiving in Carolina's 34-21 loss to Houston.
-Isaac Bruce, Rams, caught eight passes for 145 yards in St. Louis' 17-16 loss to San Francisco.
Special Teams
-Devin Hester, Bears, scored on a 73-yard punt and set up a field goal with another long return in Chicago's 20-10 win over Kansas City.
-Neil Rackers, Cardinals, kicked a 41-yard field goal with 1 second to go after his 52-yarder tied it at 20 with 4:44 to play, giving Arizona a 23-20 victory over Seattle.
-Jeff Reed, Steelers, kicked four field goals in Pittsburgh's 26-3 win over Buffalo.
-Joe Nedney, 49ers, made a 40-yard field goal with 3:28 to play and San Francisco hung on to beat St. Louis 17-16.
Defense
-Anthony Henry, Cowboys, had two interceptions in Dallas' 37-20 win over Miami.
-Leigh Bodden, Browns, intercepted Cincinnati's Carson Palmer with 21 seconds left to preserve Cleveland's 51-45 win over Cincinnati.
-Mike Peterson, Jaguars, had two of Jacksonville's seven sacks on Joey Harrington in a 13-7 win over Atlanta.
-Dre' Bly, Broncos, intercepted Oakland's Josh McCown in the final minute of regulation before Denver won 23-20 in overtime.
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MILESTONES
Brett Favre got the 149th win of his 17-year career in Green Bay's 35-13 win over the New York Giants, giving him one more than Hall of Famer John Elway. He completed his first 14 passes of the second half and threw three touchdown passes, finishing 29-of-38 for 286 yards. ... Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin won his home opener, 26-3 over Buffalo, just as Bill Cowher (1992) and Chuck Noll (1969) did before him. Tomlin also matched Cowher by winning his first two games.
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STREAKS
Oakland has lost 11 games in a row after falling to Denver 23-20 in overtime. The Broncos' win was their eighth straight win in a home opener. ... Pittsburgh's Willie Parker has three consecutive 100-yard games dating to last season after he went for 126 and a TD in the Steelers' 26-3 win over Buffalo. ... Carolina lost to Houston 34-21, giving the Panthers' their fourth consecutive loss in a home opener. ... Bears P Brad Maynard missed a game for the first time in his career, ending a streak of 161 consecutive games, when he sat out Sunday's 20-10 win over Kansas City because of a groin injury. ... New Orleans had allowed 62 straight points to Tampa Bay and Indianapolis until Mike Karney scored the Saints' first offensive touchdown of the season on a 1-yard run late in the third quarter of a 31-14 loss at Tampa Bay.
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STATS
Houston beat Carolina 34-21 for the Texans' first 2-0 start in franchise history. In their first five seasons, the Texans went 24-56, but released the very first draft pick, David Carr, and traded for Atlanta backup QB Matt Schaub. Carr signed with the Panthers as a backup and watched as Schaub threw for 227 yards and two TDs. ... Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for six TDs and the Browns' Derek Anderson had five in Cleveland's 51-45 win over Cincinnati, making it just the third time in NFL history that two QBs threw five TD passes apiece in the same game. Oakland's Tom Flores (6) and Houston's George Blanda (5) did it on Dec. 22, 1963, and Billy Kilmer of New Orleans (6) and Charley Johnson of St. Louis (6) did it on Nov, 5, 1969. ... Buffalo lost at Pittsburgh 26-3 and hasn't won a regular-season game there since 1975, though the Bills knocked Cowher's first team out of the playoffs in 1992. ... ... Cleveland scored its most points since returning to the league in 1999, beating Cincinnati 51-45. ... Chris Carr recovered Oakland's first successful onside kick since 1996 in Oakland's 23-20 overtime loss at Denver.
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SWINGS
After blowing a 17-0 lead in what looked like another classic Arizona collapse, Darnell Dockett recovered a fumble by Seattle's Matt Hasselbeck. Then Neil Rackers kicked a 41-yard field goal with 1 second to go Sunday, giving the Cardinals a 23-20 victory over the Seahawks. ... The Giants' 35-13 loss to Green Bay was the second straight for the undisciplined and error-prone Giants, something that hasn't happened at the start of a season since 1996. ... San Francisco beat St. Louis 17-16 despite struggling offensively most of the game. St. Louis had 392 total yards to 186 for San Francisco and Alex Smith was 11-for-17 for 126 yards. ... Houston cornerback DeMarcus Faggins, beaten on two TDs by Carolina's Steve Smith, redeemed himself by stripping kick returner Nick Goings. The ball squirted into the end zone, where Kevin Walter pounced on it for a touchdown. ... Through two Steelers victories, including a 26-3 win over Buffalo, QB Ben Roethlisberger has five TD passes and an interception. A year ago, following a motorcycle crash and an appendectomy, he had five interceptions and no TD passes while losing his two starts. ... Jeff Garcia completed 10 of 16 passes for 243 yards and no interceptions for Tampa Bay after not getting his team into the end zone during a season-opening loss to Seattle. He was not sacked, and Tampa Bay had no turnovers.
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SLOPPY
The Cowboys intercepted Trent Green four times and the Dolphins' QB fumbled attempting a spike late in the first half, possibly costing Miami points in a 37-20 loss to Dallas. ... Detroit and Minnesota combined for nine turnovers in regulation and two missed field goal attempts in the final 35 seconds of a game Detroit eventually won 20-17 in overtime. The 10th turnover, Brooks Bollinger's fumbled snap, gave Detroit the ball at the 50 to set up the Lions' winning kick. ... The Rams' Dante Hall muffed a punt late in the fourth quarter, allowing Marcus Hudson to recover for San Francisco and set up Joe Nedney's 40-yard field goal with 3:28 to play in the 49ers' 17-16 win over St. Louis. ... The Colts' Adam Vinatieri had an extra point blocked and a field goal partially blocked that bounced off the crossbar before going over. He also missed a 36-yarder to the left, but made field goals of 22, 39 and 20 yards to help Indianapolis win 22-20 at Tennessee. ... Giants Pro Bowl TE Jeremy Shockey was called for a delay penalty when he spiked the ball after a first-down catch at the Packers 16 late in the first half with the score tied at 7. He dropped a potential first-down pass at the Green Bay 3 just seconds later, forcing a 48-yard field goal in New York's 35-13 loss to Green Bay. Veteran Amani Toomer also was called for taunting at the Green Bay 8 a couple of plays before New York settled for a field goal.
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SACKS
Texans rookie defensive tackle Amobi Okoye had two of Houston's three sacks in a 34-21 win over Carolina. ... Led by linebacker Mike Peterson, Jacksonville had seven sacks of Atlanta's Joey Harrington to help the Jaguars rebound from a humbling season opener with a 13-7 victory over the Falcons. ... Tommie Harris sacked Kansas City's Damon Huard twice, and Brian Urlacher also got his first sack since 2005 in Chicago's 20-10 win. ... Gerard Warren, traded from Denver to Oakland in the preseason when he didn't grasp Jim Bates' new defensive scheme fast enough, sacked Broncos' QB Jay Cutler in the end zone for a safety in Denver's 23-20 overtime win.
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SIDELINED
Eli Manning started at quarterback for the New York Giants in their 35-13 loss to the Packers after bruising his shoulder a week ago. He led New York to scores on three consecutive series bridging the second and third quarters. ... Detroit's Jon Kitna, who missed about two quarters after being shaken up, ran the ball twice to pick up a key first down before the Lions kicked a field goal to beat Minnesota 20-17 in overtime. Kitna finished 22-of-33 for 245 yards with one touchdown and an interception. ... Bills players wore Everett No. 85 T-shirts under their jerseys to salute injured tight end Kevin Everett in Buffalo's 26-3 loss to Pittsburgh. ... Jacksonville defensive tackle John Henderson left in the first half because of a ''blow to the head,'' the team said. He returned in the second, but then had to be helped off the field with heat-related issues.
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STUFFED
Larry Johnson ran for just 55 yards on 16 attempts in Kansas City's 20-10 loss to Chicago. ... Tampa Bay did a good job of containing Reggie Bush, limiting the Saints' multi-purpose threat to 27 yards on 10 rushes and 43 yards on six receptions in the Buccaneers' 31-14 win. ... Detroit limited Minnesota rookie Adrian Peterson to 66 yards on 20 carries in the Lions' 20-17 overtime win.
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SLICK
Denver called a timeout just before the ball was snapped on Sebastian Janikowski's 52-yard field goal in overtime. The Raiders rushed the field in celebration and the Broncos hung their heads in defeat, but officials ruled Denver called a timeout. On the retry, Janikowski's kick hit the left upright, giving the Broncos new life and the ball at their 42. They drove to the Oakland 6 and Elam nailed it on first down to give Denver a 23-20 win.
SPEAKING
''It was all in good fun. I hope they don't give me a hefty fine like they gave Belichick.'' - Dallas' Terrell Owens, who celebrated a touchdown catch by leaning against the goal post and holding the ball to his face as if videotaping with it - his way of poking fun at the spying scandal involving Patriots coach Bill Belichick
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''Before we would go down by 14 points early, the games were over. Now we go down by 14 points, everyone comes on the sideline and says, 'Hey we're fine.''' - Texans receiver Andre Johnson after Houston started a season 2-0 for the first time, beating Carolina 34-21.
Ravens' Pryce to miss 3-4 weeks with wrist injury; McNair hopeful
September 17, 2007
OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) -The Baltimore Ravens expect to have injured quarterback Steve McNair back for this Sunday's game against Arizona, but defensive end Trevor Pryce will miss at least three weeks after undergoing surgery on his broken left wrist.
Pryce was hurt in the third quarter of the Ravens' 20-13 win over the New York Jets on Sunday. The four-time Pro Bowl lineman set career highs last year with 73 tackles and 13 sacks, and also led Baltimore with 73 quarterback hits.
Now there's a chance the Ravens will play the next five games without him.
``It could be anywhere from three to four weeks, depending upon the rehab, how he feels when it's casted up, playing with the club (on his arm),'' coach Brian Billick said Monday.
If all goes well, Pryce will miss three games before returning on Oct. 14. But the 11-year veteran could also be lost until after the bye on Oct. 28, Billick said.
McNair, meanwhile, sat out the Jets game with a strained groin but will practice Wednesday when the Ravens begin on-field preparations for a home matchup against the Cardinals (1-1).
``Steve felt pretty good on Sunday. He felt like if he really had to go, he could have,'' Billick said. ``It's encouraging. He should be able to go on Wednesday.''
Asked if he expected McNair to play against the Cardinals, Billick replied, ``That would be my expectation now, based on he felt Sunday. Now it's the same old story: Let's see how he feels Thursday after going on Wednesday. But he felt pretty good Sunday, so that bodes well for us.''
McNair was replaced against the Jets by Kyle Boller, who went 23-for-35 for 185 yards and two touchdowns. Best of all, Boller and the Ravens did not commit a turnover, a vast improvement over the six giveaways Baltimore had in a season-opening 27-20 loss to Cincinnati.
The Ravens also played Sunday without left offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden, who has toe and foot injuries. Billick said there's a chance Ogden could be back against the Cardinals, but the final decision won't come until later in the week.
``When Jonathan feels like he can go, he'll go,'' Billick said.
With Pryce out, the Ravens will have to depend on fourth-year player Dwan Edwards and rookie Antwan Barnes. After Pryce left Sunday, Edwards played on first and second downs and Barnes entered as part of the nickel package.
``We'll have to tag team it, do it in tandem,'' Billick said.
Edwards, Baltimore's second-round draft pick in 2004, played in only 24 games over his first three seasons and started only once. But he had an excellent training camp and appears ready to make a solid contribution.
``I know the defensive coaches are excited about the way Dwan is playing now,'' Billick said. ``It's a great opportunity for Dwan. We're very pleased where he is right now and what he'll do for us.''
Jets say Pennington is still starting QB - as long as he's healthy
September 17, 2007
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP) -There's no quarterback controversy with the New York Jets.
Despite an impressive fourth-quarter performance by backup Kellen Clemens at Baltimore, Chad Pennington will remain the starter - as long as he's healthy.
``Chad's the starter and I'm the backup. That's been clearly communicated,'' Clemens said Monday. ``Whoever's healthy and ready to go will go on Sunday and we trust the coaches to put us in the best position to hopefully get that first victory.''
Whether that means Pennington, who didn't play in the 20-13 loss to the Ravens because of an ankle injury, will be healthy enough to start against the Miami Dolphins remains to be seen.
``If he can, he will,'' coach Eric Mangini said. ``We'll just assess it throughout the week, but if he's able to, he will.''
Pennington injured his right ankle when he was sacked in the third quarter of the Jets' season-opening 38-14 loss to the New England Patriots. He missed one play, but came back on New York's next series and led the Jets to a touchdown before pulling himself out of the game late in the fourth quarter.
He walked with a severe limp after the game and spent last week rehabbing the injury. He improved to the point that he was listed as the No. 2 quarterback, even telling reporters after the game that he was ready to play.
``He did a really great job with his rehab,'' Mangini said. ``He worked incredibly hard at it. It was one of those things where, just like we're talking about this week, you assess it throughout the course of the week. The progress he made was outstanding. I was really pleased with that and that's why he was at the 2-spot.''
Pennington was not in the locker room Monday, and usually only speaks to the media on Wednesdays and after games.
``Chad is one of our leaders, one of our main leaders, especially on offense,'' receiver Jerricho Cotchery said. ``To have our guys healthy and ready to go for next week would be a big plus.''
Clemens said he wasn't ever told he was going to start against the Ravens - even when the game started.
``As soon as our defense forced that first punt, I just kind of jogged out on the field and nobody told me not to,'' said Clemens, wearing an Oregon-themed T-shirt with the words ``Getting The Job Done'' printed on it.
The second-year quarterback certainly made a case for himself to see more action with an impressive second half against the Ravens. He was bottled up in the first half, going 4-of-9 for 43 yards and an interception, but looked like a season veteran in the final 15 minutes.
Clemens cut a 20-3 deficit to seven points in the fourth quarter and took the Jets to the Baltimore 7 before Ray Lewis intercepted a deflected pass in the end zone with 1:04 left to preserve the win.
``He gave us a chance to win, and that is all you can ask for,'' linebacker Jonathan Vilma said.
Clemens had three passes on the final drive that could've been caught for tying touchdowns, but were dropped. Receivers Justin McCareins and Laveranues Coles took the blame after the game, as did Clemens, for not coming through at the end.
``There were some big throws that we had some opportunities to do something with and I missed,'' said Clemens, who finished 19-of-37 for 260 yards a touchdown and two interceptions. ``We'll work on that.''
When asked if he's confident he can be an NFL starter even if he might have taken his last snaps in a game this season, Clemens grimaced.
``That's highly possible,'' Clemens said. ``Gosh, on that one I can only speak on what I proved to myself, and that was in the fourth quarter, it was a nice boost of confidence against a very good defense. In a pretty hostile environment, we were able to move the ball in a game that wasn't going too smoothly. We battled back and made a pretty dang good game out of it. That helps confidence for me, considering the limited action that I've had.''
Clemens took some hard hits from the Ravens, especially in the first half. He was sacked four times and was forced to hurry a number of throws.
``There's some soreness, there is, but it's a good soreness,'' Clemens said. ``It's a lot better to be sore because you were playing than because you were standing around on the sideline the whole time. A little bit of soreness, but that just comes with playing, and it feels good to be a part of it.''
Falcons again turn to Morten Andersen
September 17, 2007
Associated Press
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) -- The Atlanta Falcons again are turning to Morten Andersen to solve their kicking woes.
One day after Matt Prater missed two field goals in the Falcons' 13-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Falcons cut him and signed the 47-year-old Andersen on Monday.
Andersen, an eight-time Pro Bowl selection and the NFL's career scoring leader with 2,445 points, and also the Falcons' leader with 707. He was Atlanta's kicker from 1995-2000 before coming back for a second stint with the team last year.
Andersen was 20-for-23 in field-goal attempts in 14 games with the Falcons last season, including 7-for-8 from 40 to 49 yards.
Despite his continued accuracy on field goals, Andersen no longer has the leg strength for kickoffs, forcing the team to use punter Michael Koenen in that capacity. Koenen also has been used on kickoffs this season.
Prater is 1-of-4 this season, including two costly misses on Sunday. He was wide right from 43 yards in the second quarter and wide right from 26 yards in the third.
"This was really tough," Prater said after the game. "I put it all on my shoulders. I feel like I let the team down. I didn't do my part or my job. So I feel pretty bad about it."
Andersen has made 540 of 681 field goals in his career. He set an Atlanta record with a 59-yard field goal in 1995, when he also set the team record for most 50-yard field goals in a season with eight.
Training Room Report
Fantasy owners and NFL head coaches had to rejoice once week two action was completed. After a long rash of injuries in week one, week two did not see as many injuries and this week’s training room report highlights the injuries from Sunday’s games, as well as a look at some of the injured players who didn’t play and their status for week three. One of the players to watch throughout the week is Detroit Lions running back Kevin Jones. Jones has missed the first two games of the season, but the team believes he is getting close to a return. According to reports, Jones will be listed as probable for week three and the running back could play around 20 snaps. Obviously, Jones’ return to the field will hurt Tatum Bell’s fantasy value, but it will take him some time to get into game form and return to 100 percent for the rest of the 2007 season.
Arizona vs. Baltimore
Ravens
Mark Clayton (WR)—Clayton played briefly against the Jets in week two, making one catch. Coach Billick has indicated he will play Sunday against Arizona.
Jonathan Ogden (OT)—Ogden did not play Sunday against the Jets. Coach Billick is hopeful he can resume practice by Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Sunday.
Steve McNair (QB)—McNair did not play in the Ravens’ win over New York in week two, and is currently listed as questionable. The expectation is that he will resume his starting role this coming Sunday.
Trevor Pryce (DE)—Pryce broke his left wrist in the Jets game. He has had surgery to repair it and is expected to miss the next three to five games.
Ray Lewis (LB)—Lewis played well against New York and is listed as probable for the Cardinals game.
Demetrius Williams (WR)—Williams suffered a bruised arm Sunday and will play this week.
Cardinals
Bryant Johnson (WR)—Johnson, who has been hampered with an injured hamstring, made two catches for twenty-three yards this past Sunday. He is listed as probable and expected to face the Ravens.
St. Louis vs. Tampa Bay
Rams
Marc Bulger (QB) – According to STLToday.com, Bulger was battling rib and knee soreness after the week two loss to San Francisco. Don’t expect this to keep Bulger out of week three.
Buccaneers
Cadillac Williams (RB) – Despite a rib injury, Williams was able to start and play effectively against the Saints. Expect the Cadillac to be rolling out of the garage for week three’s matchup against the Rams.
Brian Kelly (CB) – Kelly was inactive for Sunday’s game against New Orleans and he will likely be questionable for this week’s game.
Chris Simms (QB) – Simms was inactive for week two action and the Bucs show no signs of activating him anytime soon.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh
49ers
Frank Gore (RB) – During week two action, Gore was spotted on the sidelines getting examined for a knee injury by the trainer. However, the 49ers do not believe it is serious and fantasy owners should feel comfortable with him in the lineup this week.
Steelers
James Harrison (LB) – In a scary moment at the end of the first half against the Bills, Harrison was carted off the field, but eventually returned to the sidelines. Seeing Harrison walk onto the field was great news for the Steelers, but it is unknown if he can play this Sunday.
Detroit vs. Philadelphia
Eagles
L. J. Smith (TE)—Smith was activated for Monday’s game against Washington and should be able to play in week three, despite his groin injury.
Greg Lewis (WR)—Despite a hip injury, Lewis is listed as active for the Redskins game and should be available for week three.
Jevon Kearse (DE)—Kearse is listed as active for the Redskins showdown, even with his shoulder injury. He will be available for week three.
Lions
Jon Kitna (QB)—Kitna is believed to have suffered a mild concussion in Sunday’s victory. He didn’t show any residue symptoms Monday, nor experience any headaches. He is expected to play this weekend against the Eagles.
Kevin Jones (RB)—Jones did not play in weeks one or two with a foot injury. He is, however, listed as probable to take on the Eagles this weekend. It’ll be interesting to see how effective he can be.
Dan Campbell (TE)—Campbell was scheduled to undergo an MRI on his injured elbow Monday. He is currently listed as probable for week three.
T.J. Duckett (RB)—Duckett did not play Sunday and is currently listed as questionable for further action in week three.
Miami vs. N.Y. Jets
Dolphins
No injuries reported from Sunday’s game against the Cowboys.
Jets
Chad Pennington (QB) – Pennington was active, but did not start in week two’s contest against the Ravens. Pennington should be able to start, but we’ll call him questionable at this point.
Jerricho Cotchery (WR) – Reports indicate Cotchery suffered a shoulder injury against the Ravens, but nothing has been released on how severe it is. Since we haven’t heard anything else, we expect this receiver to start on Sunday.
Buffalo vs. New England
Patriots
Jarvis Green (DL)—Hasn’t played this season with shoulder problems, although he is involved in limited practice. Patriots have obviously not missed him.
Richard Seymour (DL)—Seymour is currently on the physically unable to perform list with knee injuries. It is questionable if he will play this season at all. The Patriots miss him a little more than Green.
Bills
Doesn’t really matter. They have no shot against the Patriots. For those who still care:
Terrence McGee (CB)—McGee bruised his ribs Sunday against the Steelers and is listed as probable for the Patriots game. He probably wishes he had been hurt a little more so he wouldn’t have to get embarrassed by Moss.
Josh Reed (WR)—Reed missed Sunday’s game with a hip contusion. He is listed as questionable at best for this week’s division match-up. It won’t help Losman to lose a semi-viable target in this game.
Coy Wire (S)—Wire blew out his MCL Sunday and is out indefinitely.
Ashton Youboty (CB) – Youboty left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury and his status for next week’s game is in doubt.
Minnesota vs. Kansas City
Vikings
Tarvaris Jackson (QB) – Jackson left Sunday’s overtime game against the Lions with a groin injury and his status for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs is up in the air. Kelly Holcomb is expected to start if Jackson cannot go.
Chester Taylor (RB) – Taylor (hip) did not play in last week’s game against the Lions. We’ll update his status for week three later this week.
Robert Ferguson(WR)—Ferguson, continuing his streak of injuries with ankle problems, did play in week two against Detroit. He made three catches for twenty-nine yards. He is probable for week three.
Chiefs
Eddie Kennison (WR)—Kennison will miss the Vikings game Sunday due to a hamstring injury. Coach Herm Edwards anticipates Kennison returning for week four.
Patrick Surtain (CB)—Surtain registered four tackles in Sunday’s loss to the Bears. He is listed as probable for the upcoming week.
Jon McGraw (S)—McGraw has missed the first two games of the season with hamstring injuries. He has returned to limited practice, but is listed as questionable at this point.
Keyaron Fox (LB)—Fox played Sunday against the Bears, despite back problems, registering two tackles. He is listed as probable for Sunday.
Indianapolis vs. Houston
Colts
Rob Morris (LB) – Morris was forced to miss Sunday’s game against the Titans due to an abdominal strain. Morris will likely be questionable for this week’s game against the Texans.
Freddy Keiaho (LB) – Keiaho was inactive for the victory against the Titans due to a dislocated elbow. The Colts are uncertain about his status for week three.
Texans
Andre Johnson (WR) – In what might be the biggest injury from week two action, the Texans could be without their star receiver for a couple of weeks. Johnson suffered a sprained knee against the Panthers and although a MRI apparently showed nothing serious, he will likely be out at least Sunday and possibly a couple of other games.
Travis Johnson (DT) – Johnson was inactive for the week two contest against Carolina and his status for this week’s game has not been updated.
San Diego vs. Green Bay
Chargers
Jamal Williams (DT) – Williams suffered an elbow injury against New England and tried to continue with a brace, but was unable to finish the game.
Shane Olivea (OT) – Olivea left Sunday night’s game against the Patriots with an leg injury and had to be carted off the field.
Matt Wilhelm (LB) – Wilhelm dealt with a calf injury against the Patriots and his status for next week is uncertain.
Eric Parker (WR) – Parker is out for the first couple of weeks of the 2007 season, as he is battling a toe injury. Parker could miss around five to six games and while he is out, you can upgrade rookie Craig Davis.
Packers
Tony Palmer (G) – The Packers expect Palmer to miss the rest of the year with a fractured bone in his neck.
Vernand Morency (RB) – Morency was inactive for the second straight week against the Giants, but the Packers think he will be able to practice on Wednesday. However, Morency is losing ground to rookies Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn.
Greg Jennings (WR) – Jennings was also inactive for the second straight week and rookie James Jones continues to impress. Jennings’ status for week three is uncertain and he could be another gametime decision.
Cincinnati vs. Seattle
Bengals
Shayne Graham (K)—Graham was perfect in Cincinnati’s ridiculous loss to Cleveland Sunday. He made one field goal attempt and was six for six on extra-point tries. He will play Sunday against Seattle.
Levi Jones (OT)—Jones hasn’t played the first two games this season, although he has continually been listed as probable. No one knows what’s going on with Jones, which is par for the course in Cincinnati.
T. J. Houshmandzadeh (WR)—T. J. made eight catches, two for touchdowns, for sixty-nine yards Sunday. His knee may not be one hundred percent, but he is close and will play in week three.
Antonio Chatman (WR)—Chatman injured his hamstring in the Sunday debacle in Cleveland, but is listed as probable this week.
Ahmad Brooks (LB)—Brooks left the Browns game with an injured groin. He is listed as questionable at this time for the Seahawk contest. That is bad news for the Bengals, as they are very thin at linebacker and not very strong with Brooks, much less without him.
Johnathan Joseph (CB) – Joseph will undergo a MRI on his injured wrist on Monday. The Bengals struggled to stop the Browns – imagine how bad their defense could be without Joseph.
Seahawks
Maurice Morris (RB)—Morris did not play Sunday with a sore hip. He is still listed as questionable and may not play this week against the Bengals.
Shaun Alexander (RB)—Alexander, wearing a cast-like device on his left thumb and wrist, had seventy yards on eighteen carries this past week. He is listed as probable against the Bengals, but is far from the Alexander of 2004 and 2005. He will sit on many fantasy benches for a while.
Cleveland vs. Oakland
Browns
Willie McGinest (LB) – McGinest missed week one with a back injury and is likely out for week three.
Brodney Pool (S) – Pool suffered a slight concussion against the Bengals and his status will be monitored throughout the week.
Raiders
Josh McCown (QB) – Despite injuries to his hand and ankle, McCown played and nearly led the Raiders to victory over the Broncos in week two. Although his performance wasn’t overwhelming, the Raiders will stick with him as their starter for week three action.
Derrick Burgess (DE) – Burgess reportedly suffered a calf injury in Sunday’s game against the Broncos. The Raiders will likely update his injury status on Wednesday.
Jacksonville vs. Denver
Jaguars
Khalif Barnes (OT) and Maurice Drew-Jones (RB)—Both received X-rays after the victory over the Falcons Sunday for ‘unspecified injuries’. They are both listed as probable at this point, although the ‘unspecified injuries’ may cause a slight doubt as to the availability of either.
Gerald Sensabaugh (S)—Sensabaugh left Sunday’s game after aggravating a shoulder injury. He is listed as questionable at best for the Broncos game and is not likely to play.
Broncos
Domonique Foxworth (CB)—Foxworth did not play Sunday against the Raiders due to his ankle and has not practiced much the last few weeks. He is questionable for the Jaguars game and is not likely to play.
Travis Henry (RB)—Henry injured his ankle in the victory over Oakland, but is listed as probable for the week three match-up with the Jaguars.
Carolina vs. Atlanta
Panthers
Dante Wesley (S) – Wesley left Sunday’s contest against the Texans with a collarbone injury and he could be done for the rest of the year.
Falcons
Wayne Gandy (OT) – Several reports indicated Gandy left Sunday’s game early due to a hamstring injury and he could be questionable for the Falcons week three matchup against Carolina.
Laurent Robinson (WR) – The Falcons declared Robinson as one of their inactives for week two, as he is battling a hamstring injury. Although the Falcon offense has been pretty poor, Robinson is a promising player. His status for week three will be updated later in the week.
N.Y. Giants vs. Washington
Giants
Eli Manning (QB) – Even though Manning was expected to miss a couple of weeks with a shoulder injury, the quarterback was able to go on Sunday and didn’t suffer any setbacks. Manning will be in the Giants lineup against the Redskins.
Plaxico Burress (WR) – The New York Daily News reports Burress is expected to play against the Redskins next Sunday, even though he suffered an ankle injury against the Packers. Watch Burress’ status closely throughout the week.
Steve Smith (WR) – Smith suffered a fractured shoulder blade against the Packers and will be out a couple of weeks.
Ahmad Bradshaw (RB) – The New York Daily News is reporting Bradshaw was in a sling due to an injured elbow after Sunday’s game against the Packers. Bradshaw’s status for the Redskins will be updated later this week.
Redskins
Randy Thomas (G) – The Redskins offensive line didn’t get any better on Monday night, as Thomas suffered a torn triceps in his arm. Thomas may end up missing the rest of the year – which would mean two starters from the offensive line would be out for the remainder of this season.
Dallas vs. Chicago
Bears
Muhsin Muhammad (WR)—The star Bears receiver had only one catch for seven yards against the Chiefs, but is listed as probable to play this week against the Cowboys as he recoups from an ankle injury.
Brian Urlacher (LB)—Urlacher has experience soreness in his back. He still registered nine total tackles last week against the Chiefs and is listed as probable for the Cowboys contest.
Dusty Dvoracek (DT)—Dvorcek has been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Mike Brown (S)—Brown has likewise been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Cowboys
Terry Glenn (WR)—Glenn is out with knee injuries and underwent surgery to remove cartilage, but hopes to be able to return in four to six weeks.
Patrick Crayton (WR)—Crayton, who didn’t register any catches in limited time against the Dolphins, suffered a dislocated pinky finger early in that game. He is listed as probable at this time.
Terence Newman (CB)—Newman did not play in week two and is listed as questionable for this week’s match-up due to plantar fascitis.
Jason Ferguson (DT)—Ferguson is out for the season with a torn biceps.
Greg Ellis (LB)—Ellis is still listed as out with the foot injury that threatens his career.
Tennessee vs. New Orleans
Saints
Deuce McAllister (RB)—McAllister suffered a swollen left eye in Sunday’s loss to Tampa Bay. He is expected to be ok and able to play in week three’s match-up with the Titans.
Titans
Casey Cramer (TE)—Cramer has missed the first two games of the season with knee problems. He has resumed practicing on a limited basis and is questionable at best for week three against the Saints.
Andre Johnson doubtful for Week 3
Andre Johnson (knee sprain) is being called doubtful for Week 3.
"We'll know more in the next couple of days," coach Gary Kubiak said. "There was no swelling, but there's definitely a sprain there. It's a concern right now." An MRI revealed an MCL sprain, meaning Johnson could miss anywhere from one week to several weeks. Jacoby Jones appears likely to start against the Colts Sunday.
Ravens receiver Clayton to resume starting
Mark Clayton will resume starting for Baltimore in Week 3.
Clayton has been limited to third downs so far while coming back from a foot injury. If the Ravens had another capable third receiver option, he may have sat out. Baltimore is confident that Clayton is healthy and can resume being an every-down player.
McCown will keep starting job for Raiders
Raiders coach Lane Kiffin confirmed Monday that Josh McCown will keep his starting job in Week 3.
McCown wore a protective boot on his foot Monday, but should be healthy enough to face the Browns. Kiffin did indicate that McCown, who has thrown three touchdowns to five interceptions through two weeks, could be on a short leash: "Josh has got to get better, that's no secret, or he won't be our starting quarterback for long, especially at this pace.
Redskins lose RG Thomas with torn triceps
Redskins RG Randy Thomas left Monday night's game with a torn triceps.
Thomas could miss the rest of the season. This is a huge blow for the Redskins' offense, which has now lost the entire right side of its line after losing RT Jon Jansen for the season in Week 1. Thomas was possibly Washington's best run blocker
Jets CB/KR Miller to miss remainder of season
According to the New York Daily News, Justin Miller will miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury.
A Pro Bowl return man last season, Miller hurt his right knee in Sunday's loss to the Ravens and underwent an MRI, with an anonymous source telling the newspaper that "it doesn't look good." Leon Washington figures to replace Miller on kickoffs.
rotoworld.com
Suspended defensive tackle Tank Johnson signs contract with Dallas Cowboys
September 18, 2007
IRVING, Texas (AP) -Suspended defensive tackle Tank Johnson has signed a two-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys.
Johnson, who played the last three seasons for the Chicago Bears, can't play for the Cowboys until he completes his eight-game NFL suspension for violating probation on a gun charge. He has served the first two games of that suspension.
Johnson signed Tuesday after visiting with the Cowboys and taking a physical.
``For a lot of reasons, he really just felt the Cowboys were the right fit,'' said Johnson's agent, Jerrold Colton. ``He's so thankful to them for giving him this opportunity. He is very determined to prove they made a wise decision in believing in him.''
Steelers' Harrison has stiff neck, cleared to play
ASSOCIATED PRESS
PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison has been cleared to play against San Francisco this week despite being carried off the field on a stretcher during Sunday's game against Buffalo.
Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday the news on Harrison was ''very good'' and that Harrison was diagnosed with a stiff neck.
Harrison may be held back during practice Wednesday, but can play Sunday, Tomlin said.
Harrison, an undrafted free agent who has replaced Joey Porter at right outside linebacker, was hurt on Marshawn Lynch's 8-yard carry that ended the second quarter.
Harrison, caught in a pileup, rammed his head into teammate Casey Hampton's back as Lynch was tackled by Brett Keisel and Clark Haggans. He lay motionless briefly as the Steelers delayed a halftime tribute to some of their former stars until Harrison was taken off the field.
After being examined by doctors for a few minutes, Harrison returned to the sideline midway through the third quarter, but did not play again as the Steelers won 26-3.
Through two games, Harrison has two sacks and is second on the team with 10 tackles.
Falcons sign former Jaguars' starter Leftwich
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Atlanta Falcons signed former Jacksonville quarterback Byron Leftwich on Tuesday, giving the team immediate depth and a potential contender for the starting job.
Leftwich's agent, Tom Condon, said the former first-round draft pick passed a physical, worked out for the team and signed a two-year, $7 million deal.
''He's very pleased to be in Atlanta, for whatever role they have in mind,'' Condon said. ''At this time of year, at the time Byron was released, it makes it difficult for teams, because clearly he is a starting caliber quarterback. Nevertheless, it's going to take a period of time before he learns the offense.
''Byron is an extremely bright guy. I think it will happen relatively quickly.''
Condon said the 27-year-old Leftwich already was studying film and would join the team for Wednesday's practice.
Oddsmakers have listed the Falcons as 4-point underdogs for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. The total for this contest is set at 36.
The Falcons needed help. Harrington, who took over as the starter when Michael Vick was suspended by the NFL, has lost his first two starts with Atlanta and the offense has scored only 10 points.
Harrington's current backups are Chris Redman, who has not played in an NFL game since 2003, and Casey Bramlet, whose only professional experience came in Europe.
The Falcons did not immediately confirm the signing of Leftwich or announce a roster move to clear a spot for the new quarterback.
Vick was suspended indefinitely last month following his guilty plea on a dogfighting charge. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 10.
Leftwich was cut by Jacksonville in a surprise preseason move when the Jaguars chose David Garrard as their starter. Ankle and knee problems have prevented Leftwich, who was taken seventh overall in 2003, from completing a full season recently. He missed 15 games the past two years.
Harrington has been sacked 13 times, and coach Bobby Petrino said Monday the quarterback is holding the ball too long and showing a lack of confidence in his play.
''I think right now Joey is playing a little bit conservative, a little bit not to throw the interception,'' Petrino said. ''Therefore it is causing him to hold the ball. He just needs to open it up more with confidence and play to go win the game.''
Harrington was 12-for-20 passing for 200 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions in a 13-7 loss to Jacksonville on Sunday.
Jets place Pro Bowl KR Justin Miller on injured reserve
ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW YORK -- The New York Jets placed Pro Bowl kick returner-cornerback Justin Miller on injured reserve Tuesday because of a knee injury.
The speedy Miller, who led the NFL last season in yards per kickoff return, injured his right knee during a 22-yard return early in the second quarter of New York's 20-13 loss at Baltimore on Sunday. He stayed on the turf for several minutes before being helped off the field and taken to the locker room.
The nature and severity of the injury was not immediately known. The Jets were off Tuesday, and coach Eric Mangini is extremely tightlipped when it comes to injuries. Calls and e-mails to the office of Miller's agent, Eugene Parker, seeking comment weren't immediately returned.
It's a disappointing end to the season for Miller, who was making strides at cornerback in training camp before injuring a hamstring in the team's scrimmage at Fordham University on Aug. 5. He didn't play in any preseason games while recovering, but played in the first two regular-season games and had two tackles and two returns for 48 yards.
Miller struggled with pass coverage in his first two NFL seasons, but was selected for the Pro Bowl last season after leading the league with 28.3 yards per kickoff return. He had two returns for touchdowns last season: a team-record 103-yarder against Indianapolis and a 99-yarder at Cleveland.
The Jets' second-round pick in 2005 out of Clemson, Miller holds the team record with three kickoff returns for touchdowns and is already third on the career list for kickoff return yardage with 2,929 yards.
The last several months have been rough for Miller, who was also arrested May 20 and charged with third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, after an early morning fight at a New York City nightclub.
In Miller's absence, the Jets are expected to use Leon Washington, Brad Smith and Wallace Wright as kick returners. Rookie Darrelle Revis has stepped in as the team's primary right cornerback, the spot Miller started at in four games last season.
Also Tuesday, the Jets released offensive lineman Jason Capizzi from the practice squad.
Steelers' Harrison has stiff neck, cleared to play
ASSOCIATED PRESS
PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison has been cleared to play against San Francisco this week despite being carried off the field on a stretcher during Sunday's game against Buffalo.
Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday the news on Harrison was ''very good'' and that Harrison was diagnosed with a stiff neck.
Harrison may be held back during practice Wednesday, but can play Sunday, Tomlin said.
Harrison, an undrafted free agent who has replaced Joey Porter at right outside linebacker, was hurt on Marshawn Lynch's 8-yard carry that ended the second quarter.
Harrison, caught in a pileup, rammed his head into teammate Casey Hampton's back as Lynch was tackled by Brett Keisel and Clark Haggans. He lay motionless briefly as the Steelers delayed a halftime tribute to some of their former stars until Harrison was taken off the field.
After being examined by doctors for a few minutes, Harrison returned to the sideline midway through the third quarter, but did not play again as the Steelers won 26-3.
Through two games, Harrison has two sacks and is second on the team with 10 tackles.
Bengals sign LB Dhani Jones
September 19, 2007
CINCINNATI (AP) -The Bengals signed free agent linebacker Dhani Jones to a one-year contract Wednesday, a day after waiving linebacker Andre Frazier.
Jones played four seasons with the New York Giants and three with Philadelphia, starting 13 games last season.
The Eagles released him April 30 and he signed with New Orleans, which released him Aug. 31.
Andre Johnson doubtful for Week 3
Andre Johnson (knee sprain) is being called doubtful for Week 3.
"We'll know more in the next couple of days," coach Gary Kubiak said. "There was no swelling, but there's definitely a sprain there. It's a concern right now." An MRI revealed an MCL sprain, meaning Johnson could miss anywhere from one week to several weeks. Jacoby Jones appears likely to start against the Colts Sunday.
Johnson says he'll miss Sunday's game
Associated Press
HOUSTON (AP) - Houston Texans receiver Andre Johnson said he won't play this weekend against Indianapolis as he recovers from a sprained knee.
Johnson injured his knee during the fourth quarter of the Texans 34-21 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. He was hurt after falling awkwardly following a 10-yard reception and remained on the turf for several minutes.
He was able to walk off the field on his own, but could be seen limping on the sideline.
Johnson had seven catches for 120 yards and two touchdowns Sunday and his 262 yards receiving in the first two games rank fourth in the NFL.