With the Big Ten and the Pacific-10 considering expansion, Notre Dame is being forced to explore options for its future that include giving up its indepedence, he said.

The first three days of free agency in an uncapped football season yielded some unexpected results but also some big deals.

The Jets agreed in principle to trade Rhodes to the Cardinals, who needed a safety to fill the hole left by the departure of Antrel Rolle for the Giants.

Chicago, normally one of the more conservative spending franchises, went on a shopping spree Friday, adding Julius Peppers, Chester Taylor and Brandon Manumaleuna.

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions have signed free agent cornerback Jonathan Wade to a one-year contract.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- LaDainian Tomlinson is coming to Minnesota for a visit, and the Vikings believe he could be a good fit.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Kansas City Chiefs have signed free agent defensive tackle Shaun Smith, who played last season for Cincinnati.

NEW YORK (AP) -- Business as usual.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Minnesota Vikings lineman Pat Williams is telling a judge he didn't know an over-the-counter weight-loss supplement contained a banned substance that got him in trouble with the NFL.

ATLANTA (AP) -- Attorneys for the woman who accuses Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger of sexual assault said that she did the right thing by going to police and asked for privacy in a statement Tuesday.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) -- The New England Patriots have kept another free agent from leaving, re-signing cornerback Leigh Bodden to a four-year deal.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Kansas City Chiefs' running game just got a big boost.

METAIRIE, La. (AP) -- New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis says the club has agreed to re-sign reserve defensive back Leigh Torrence to a one-year contract.

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Michael Vick says the Philadelphia Eagles exercised their 2010 option on him, meaning the quarterback will receive a $1.5 million roster bonus sometime this week.

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Inside the banquet hall, a humbled but defiant Michael Vick was honored Tuesday night as one of 32 NFL players to receive the Ed Block Courage Award.

CINCINNATI (AP) -- Terrell Owens headed to Cincinnati on Tuesday to see if the Bengals are interested in adding him to their stalled-out passing game.

Talk about your major losses: Kurt Warner, Anquan Boldin, Karlos Dansby, Antrel Rolle. Sounds bad, right? Pete Prisco says the well-run Cardinals will not only be OK but will continue to rule the NFC West.

Trade rumors. A tangy, three-quarterback soup. Restless fans. The Eagles, who ended a good year with two bad losses in Dallas, have lots of big decisions to make in the draft and beyond.

Who needs pass-rushers, run-stuffers, backfield-crashers? Who doesn't? Frank Cooney begins our position draft previews with a loaded group of D-line crop starting with Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy.

Like one of his errant passes, quarterback Derek Anderson sent a rocket at Browns fans he wishes he could take back.

Free-agent receiver Antonio Bryant agreed to a four-year, $28 million contract with the Bengals, the 'Cincinnati Enquirer' reported Wednesday.

Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Willie Colon was with teammate Ben Roethlisberger on the night the quarterback was accused of sexual assault in a Georgia club, but did not witness anything, Colon's agent says.

Minnesota Vikings lineman Pat Williams is telling a judge he didn't know an over-the-counter weight-loss supplement contained a banned substance that got him in trouble with the NFL.

Vikings defensive lineman Kevin Williams testified Wednesday that his contract barred last-minute tactics to lose weight, including the use of diuretics like the one that got him in trouble with the league.

The Philadelphia Eagles and free agent defensive back Marlin Jackson have agreed to a two-year contract.

Free-agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu has signed a two-year, $6.975 million contract with the Washington Redskins.

Terrence Cody showed NFL teams he had the willpower to shed excess pounds, while Rolando McClain demonstrated his willingness to push through health issues.

Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain has the incurable intestinal disorder Crohn's disease, but Chad Reuter says the condition isn't expected to prevent McClain from remaining a top prospect for the NFL Draft.

Russell Okung got a chance to finish what he started at the NFL combine.

ony Pike and Mardy Gilyard got another chance to impress NFL scouts, this time on their own turf. They think they pulled it off together.

Wednesday's NFL news briefs: Free-agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu has signed a two-year, $6.975 million contract with the Washington Redskins.

With a wild free agent season expected in the NFL this summer, Fantasy owners will be as challenged as ever to keep up with where all of their favorite Fantasy performers land. We'll keep on top of the news so you won't have to!

Were quarterbacks the most valuable position in Fantasy in 2009? What about top-tier receivers versus No. 2 Fantasy running backs? How do the tiers among each position fare against each other? Our Dave Richard explores the data.

The Saints provided Fantasy owners with multiple options both at running back and wide receiver in 2009. Our Jamey Eisenberg puts their receiving corps under the microscope for Draft Day 2010.

Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell and Reggie Bush all have their strengths, but which one is ultimately the best choice in Fantasy for 2010? Our Dave Richard caught up with them to get their thoughts on their roles and future.

While it's difficult to address the specific parameters of each individual keeper league, the concept remains generally the same. Our Jamey Eisenberg runs through his list of top keeper candidates for Draft Day 2010.

How many outlets have you come across that publish how accurate their preseason and in-season projections were after the season has concluded? We lay it all out for you to decide with an interactive visualization.

Now that the Saints have captured Super Bowl XLIV, it's time to start looking ahead. Our staff of Fantasy writers is currently in the midst of the earliest post-Super Bowl mock draft in the industry. CHeck out the results!

There were big expectations for Anthony Gonzalez in 2009, but they all ended in the first game of the season. Our Jamey Eisenberg recently spoke with Gonzalez about his rehab and his outlook on his future in Indy.

Adrian Peterson had a second straight phenomenal season in 2009, but Fantasy owners are a bit nervous about his fumbling issues. Our Dave Richard caught up with Peterson, who will address his ball security this offseason.

Who were among the winningest players in Fantasy this season based on win percentage for owners in CBSSports.com leagues? Our Jamey Eisenberg runs through the list and unveils makes his point with an interactive chart.

There were plenty of disappointments from the 2009 season, namely Matt Forte and Calvin Johnson. Who might be in line for a major rebound in 2010? Our Dave Richard takes an early look at some bounce-back candidates.

Four teams remain heading into Championship Sunday, three of which are loaded with Fantasy weapons. Our Jamey Eisenberg points out what you might want to look for and discusses other playoff trends of note.

How did our Jamey Eisenberg do on some of his predictions for the 2009 season back in August? He saw Michael Turner's disappointing season coming and was high on Tony Romo too, but he also whiffed on Darren McFadden.

Will elite quarterbacks be more valuable in 2010? Would you rather have Vincent Jackson or Randy Moss next season? Our Dave Richard and Jamey Eisenberg debate that and much more in their Faceoffs.

The Wild Card games offered quite a bit for owners looking to get a jump on 2010. What might the Divisional Round provide? Our Jamey Eisenberg highlights his top storylines and shares his Playoff Challenge lineup.

You won't find many pigskin prognosticators that will recap things they got wrong, rather just the predictions they got right. Our Dave Richard shares some of his highlights and lowlights from prior to the season.

Astute Fantasy owners know that the playoffs are a great time to scout players for the coming season. Our Jamey Eisenberg provides you with a few storylines to watch and shares his Playoff Challenge lineup.

Sure, the 2009 season just ended, but it sure is fun to see where this year's studs and duds may wind up in drafts next summer. Follow along with our first mock draft for the 2010 season!

Instead of wasting his time looking back at what happened in the season that just ended, our Dave Richard takes a humorous look toward the future. That, plus ways to improve the end of the season in Fantasy & Reality.

Wes Welker's serious knee injury was the big storyline from Week 17. How does it impact his status for 2010 Fantasy drafts? Our Dave Richard touches on that and the rest of what he saw on Sunday in his First Response.

Our Dave Richard looks at what teams with little-to-nothing to play for in Week 17 might do with their starters.

Ben Roethlisberger should have another strong week at Miami, while Chad Ochocinco will likely be the latest victim for Darrelle Revis. Our Jamey Eisenberg shares his recommendations in his Start 'Em and Sit 'Em.

Hard to figure how some games in Week 17 might play out based on motivation, both for players and coaches heading to the postseason. Dave Richard does his best to break down all the games for owners in his Fantasy Matchups.

Which backup running back should be trusted in Week 17? Is Joe Flacco a safe play at Oakland? Our Dave Richard and Jamey Eisenberg debate that and more in their season-ending edition of Fantasy Faceoffs.

Who were some of the best waiver wire pickups of 2009? Are you still playing for something in Week 17 and need to add to your roster? Jamey Eisenberg discusses both in his season-ending edition of Playing the Waiver Wire.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that the Bengals have signed free agent WR Antonio Bryant to a four-year deal worth $28 million. Bryant had a smashing campaign in 2008 with the Bucs, catching 83 passes for 1,248 yards and seven touchdowns, but was hampered by knee injuries and poor quarterback play in 2009, finishing with 39 catches for 600 yards and four touchdowns.

The Jets have re-signed tight end Ben Hartsock, a major part of the league's top-ranked rushing offense last season. Hartsock, signed as a free agent last August, had one catch - a 2-yard touchdown in Week 3 - but was used mostly as a blocking complement to Dustin Keller. He helped pave the way for an offense that averaged a league-leading 172.2 yards per game behind Thomas Jones, now with Kansas City, Shonn Greene and Leon Washington.

The Detroit Lions have signed free agent cornerback Jonathan Wade to a one-year contract. St. Louis selected Wade in the third round of the 2007 draft. In 47 games through three seasons with the Rams, including six starts, he has 67 tackles and two interceptions.

Free-agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu signed a two-year, $6.975 million contract with the Redskins on Wednesday. The 6-foot-5, 345-pound Kemoeatu spent last season on injured reserve with the Carolina Panthers after tearing his Achilles' tendon in training camp. His agent, Ken Vierra, said in a telephone interview that the tendon is "structurally sound" and Kemoeatu is able to walk and jog but not run yet. The Redskins are expected to shift from a 4-3 alignment to a 3-4 under new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett, and Kemoeatu's presence could allow tackle Albert Haynesworth to move outside.

The Philadelphia Eagles and free agent defensive back Marlin Jackson have agreed to a two-year contract. Jackson is coming off back-to-back season-ending knee injuries: He missed the second half of 2008 with a torn ACL in his right knee and returned in 2009 before tearing the ACL in his left knee in a November practice. Jackson has 306 tackles and four interceptions in 56 career games with the Colts. The 6-foot, 196-pound Jackson can play cornerback and safety, and it is believed he will play free safety for the Eagles.

Terrance Copper re-signed with the Chiefs earlier this offseason. He spent 2009 with the club but had just four catches for 68 yards.

The Kansas City Chiefs have signed free agent defensive tackle Shaun Smith, who played last season for Cincinnati. The 6-foot-2, 325-pound Smith has played in 63 games, including 27 starts, with New Orleans, Cincinnati and Cleveland. He has 196 tackles and two sacks during a career that began with the Saints in 2004.

The Titans have agreed to a three-year contract with Will Witherspoon as they revamp their linebacking corps. The $11 million deal was announced Wednesday. General manager Mike Reinfeldt says Witherspoon likely will play outside linebacker, likely replacing Keith Bulluck.

Saints GM Mickey Loomis says the club has agreed to re-sign reserve defensive back Leigh Torrence to a one-year contract. Torrence has been with the Saints since being claimed off waivers in November 2008. He played in five games for New Orleans in 2009 before injuring his shoulder and finishing the year on injured reserve.

The Patriots have kept another free agent from leaving, re-signing cornerback Leigh Bodden to a four-year deal. Bodden had five interceptions last season - three of them against the New York Jets on Nov. 22, including one he returned 53 yards for a touchdown.

Nose tackle Jason Ferguson has been re-signed by the Miami Dolphins, even though he faces a suspension for the first eight games of this season. The Dolphins announced the signing Tuesday in a news release that made no reference to Ferguson's suspension last week for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances. At 35, Ferguson improves the Dolphins' roster depth, but they remain in the market for a starter at the position. Ferguson was sidelined by a season-ending quadriceps injury in November that required surgery and has contemplated retirement.

Injury-plagued running back Kevin Jones has been released by the Bears after signing running back Chester Taylor away from Minnesota last Friday. Jones missed last season after tearing ligaments in his left ankle in the preseason finale against Cleveland. He appeared in 11 games and ran for 109 yards with Chicago in 2008 while trying to come back from foot and knee injuries that plagued him the previous two years in Detroit, years that saw him work with offensive coordinator Mike Martz, who is now on the staff in Chicago.

The Minnesota Vikings and cornerback Benny Sapp have agreed to terms on a new contract. Sapp started a total of seven games last season while filling in for injured starter Antoine Winfield, totaling 25 tackles, two passes defensed and two forced fumbles during a particularly strong six-game stretch. He finished the regular season with 55 tackles, the most in his NFL seasons.

The Colts have claimed defensive end J.D. Skolnitsky off waivers from the Redskins. Skolnitsky was on the Redskins' practice squad last season after being signed as an undrafted free agent. The 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive end played at James Madison and fits the Colts' model for defensive linemen: undersized and quick.

The Denver Broncos continued beefing up their defensive line, signing unrestricted free agent Jamal Williams. Williams, a 12-year veteran, was the run-stuffing anchor of the San Diego Chargers' defensive line. He injured an arm in last season's opener and missed the rest of the year. The 6-foot-3, 348-pound Williams will turn 34 next month and also has a history of knee injuries.

The Chargers kept one of their backup tight ends but lost another on the first day of free agency. Kris Wilson, the team's third tight end the past two years, has apparently moved up the depth chart. He re-signed with the Chargers, agreeing to a two-year deal. His ascension to No. 2 behind Antonio Gates owes more to Brandon Manumaleuna signing a five-year deal with the Bears.

The Bears signed free agent TE Brandon Manumaleuna on the first day of free agency. Manumaleuna, who was with San Diego in 2009, signed a five-year deal.

Terrell Owens is headed to Cincinnati to see if the Bengals are interested in adding him to their stalled-out passing game. The 36-year-old receiver tweeted on Tuesday that he was on his way to meet with team officials. Receiver Chad Ochocinco has been lobbying for the Bengals to sign Owens. Cincinnati needs at least one proven receiver after releasing Laveranues Coles. It's unclear whether they have much interest in Owens, whose production declined each of the last two seasons with Dallas and Buffalo.

On the same day the Chiefs signed RB Thomas Jones to a two-year deal, head coach Todd Haley lauded 2009 rushing sensation Jamaal Charles. While Haley is concerned about Charles holding up for 16 games and figures to use both backs to the point where both will be happy, he's ultimately confident that his young rusher will still deliver. "I don't believe we've seen the best from Jamaal," Haley told the Kansas City Star. "He's acclimated himself to what we expected from him. He's a real good offseason guy and saw that all pay dividends for him last year. ... I'm not going to set a bar on Jamaal because each time we did that last year he kind of broke through that bar and raised it. We're going to continue to push him hard and coach him and see how good he can be."

The Chiefs signed free agent RB Thomas Jones, who led the Jets to the playoffs last season while posting career-best numbers with 331 carries for 1,402 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. It is believed that he signed a two-year, $5 million contract. Coach Todd Haley told the Kansas City Star he believes Charles will still be a great back for them, but indications are that the team is concerned about him holding up for 16 games. Haley thinks both Charles and Jones will be happy. "That's part of being a good coach,'" Haley said. "I don't think you can have enough good football players who want to win and want to be part of something special. Thomas fits that bill. It's just a chance to add another good football player to the mix in addition to the ones we have, Jamaal being one of those guys for sure."

The Broncos continued beefing up their defensive line with the signing of unrestricted free agent Jarvis Green, who spent his first eight NFL seasons in New England. Green, who packs 285 pounds on his 6-foot-3 frame, is well versed in the 3-4 alignment that coach Josh McDaniels implemented in Denver. Last season, Green had 47 tackles in 13 games, including 12 starts.

With the Cardinals trading WR Anquan Boldin to the Ravens, all signs point to WR Early Doucet landing the slot role and being the third receiver for the team in 2010. Doucet came on for the Cardinals in the playoffs with Anquan Boldin sidelined and figures into the Cardinals' plans for the upcoming season. "One of the main reasons we really explored [a Boldin trade] was because of the ascension of younger players, like Steve Breaston and Early Doucet," Cardinals GM Rod Graves told NFL.com. "We really felt like those young guys stepped up and that there is still a lot more potential there."

With the Cardinals trading WR Anquan Boldin to the Ravens, all signs point to WR Steve Breaston taking over his spot on the field and being the wideout opposite Larry Fitzgerald. Breaston has done well in the past replacing Boldin, so the move should be fairly seamless for him. Breaston is currently a restricted free agent but with first-round compensation due for him if he signs elsewhere, chances are he's staying. "One of the main reasons we really explored [a Boldin trade] was because of the ascension of younger players, like Steve Breaston and Early Doucet," Cardinals GM Rod Graves told NFL.com. "We really felt like those young guys stepped up and that there is still a lot more potential there."

The Minnesota Vikings have signed kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd. He handled kickoffs for the Carolina Panthers the last two seasons, leading the NFL with 30 touchbacks in 2008. He had 21 touchbacks last year, tied for fourth-most in the league. But Ryan Longwell remains the regular kicker for the Vikings.

The Steelers re-signed safety Ryan Clark, keeping their secondary in tact. Clark was rumored to head out of town but signed a four-year deal to stay in Pittsburgh instead. Clark had an up and down season as the Steelers went 9-7 and didn't make the playoffs after winning the Super Bowl during the 2008 season. With star safety Troy Polamalu missing most of the season with two knee injuries, Clark struggled in coverage at times and, displaying a bit of late-season frustration, criticized Steelers fans for being more demanding than those in other cities.

The Steelers re-signed wide receiver Antwaan Randle El, reuniting him with the team he helped win a Super Bowl with in 2005. But after that game he signed a $31 million, seven-year deal with the Redskins, where he essentially floundered for four seasons. He was released despite being Washington's second-leading receiver last season with 50 receptions, although none were for touchdowns.

Aaron Schobel is in no rush to collect his $2 million roster bonus because the Bills defensive end still hasn't decided on whether he'll come back for a 10th NFL season. The two-time Pro Bowl player was due the roster bonus on Tuesday, but there's a provision in his contract that he must first pass a physical. Schobel failed his end of season physical because of an elbow injury, which was surgically repaired this offseason. Schobel told The Associated Press by phone Tuesday that he's "not stressing over the money," or in any hurry to travel to Buffalo to take a mandatory physical because he's not yet made a decision on his future.

After six years backing up Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, Jim Sorgi will get a chance to do the same for Peyton's brother Eli. The Giants announced that they have signed Sorgi to a one-year deal. Sorgi will compete with second-year man Rhett Bomar for the Giants' backup quarterback job.

The Browns announced the release of veteran QB Derek Anderson, ending his tenure with the team. Anderson's release wasn't a surprise considering the exorbitant salary he was going to make in 2010. He's best known for pioneering the Browns to a 10-6 record in 2007, then flopping in stints as the starter in 2008 and 2009. "I want to thank Derek for everything that he gave to the Cleveland Browns organization over the last five years," said Browns head coach Eric Mangini. "He did everything we asked of him and it was a pleasure to coach such a competitive person. I want to wish him all the best in the future."

After two reports suggested that the Vikings are beginning discussions with free agent RB LaDainian Tomlinson about joining the team, SI.com reported that the future Hall of Famer will visit the Vikings on Thursday, setting up a possible deal that would put Tomlinson in a rushing tandem with Adrian Peterson. Tomlinson was released by the Chargers in February, ending a nine-year run in San Diego where he totaled 12,490 rush yards, 3,955 receiving yards and 153 total touchdowns.

Free agent defensive tackle Tank Johnson posted on Twitter that he's staying in Cincinnati after agreeing to a four-year deal. He had written previously that he didn't think he'd be back.

The Seattle Seahawks traded backup quarterback Seneca Wallace to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for a 2011 undisclosed draft pick. Wallace's best season was 2008 when he started eight games in now-Browns President Mike Holmgren's last season and threw for 1,532 yards and 11 touchdowns. Wallace started two games last season while starter Matt Hasselbeck was injured. "This will give Seneca a chance for a fresh start," Seattle GM John Schneider said in a statement. "The Browns front office's familiarity with his abilities will give him an opportunity to compete for playing time. We wish him nothing but the best."

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have acquired wide receiver Reggie Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles for a sixth-round pick in the 2011 draft. The 29-year-old Brown has 177 career receptions and 17 touchdowns but failed to score in 2009, grabbing nine passes for 155 yards.

The Panthers inked receiver Wallace Wright, who was mostly a special teams player the past four seasons with the Jets. Wright grew up in Fayetteville, N.C., and started as a walk-on at North Carolina. He had just eight catches for 108 yards in his career with the Jets, but has 73 special teams tackles in 53 games.

Free agent safety Darren Sharper says he had minor arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, but is feeling good and planning to play somewhere next season. Sharper attended a premier Monday night of an NFL Films championship video being released this week by Warner Home Video. He arrived using crutches, but described the procedure as a minor cleanup and assured that he's feeling "real good."

The Chargers have claimed running back Marcus Mason off waivers from the Washington Redskins, beginning the process of restocking their backfield. Mason spent most of his first two NFL seasons on the practice squads of the Redskins and Baltimore Ravens. He played in nine games last season for the Redskins, gaining 127 yards on 32 carries.

The Oakland Raiders released defensive end Greg Ellis in their latest dumping of veteran players. Ellis signed a two-year contract with Oakland last June after being released by Dallas and provided a strong veteran presence on the line. He was tied for the team lead with seven sacks last season but was hampered the second half by chronic knee problems. He was due $2.5 million next season.

The Browns announced the release of veteran QB Derek Anderson, making Brady Quinn the likely starting quarterback for the 2010 season. But that's if Quinn lasts on the roster -- the team has already traded for QB Seneca Wallace and could add other quarterbacks to challenge for the starting role before training camp.

The Oakland Raiders released wide receiver Javon Walker in their latest dumping of veteran players. Walker was a disappointment right from the start after signing a $55 million contract that included an $11 million signing bonus two years ago. He caught 15 passes for 196 yards and one touchdown in two injury-plagued seasons in Oakland, while being paid $14 million. The Raiders were hoping to have added a No. 1 receiver when they signed Walker. He had 89 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2004 for Green Bay and 69 catches for 1,084 yards and eight scores in 2006 in Denver. He injured his knee in 2007 and never was the same player again. He was criticized almost from the start in 2008 by former Raiders coach Lane Kiffin for being out of shape in offseason workouts and then was seriously injured in June during a robbery in Las Vegas. He contemplated retirement in his first training camp before being talked out of it by Raiders owner Al Davis. Walker played eight games his first season in Oakland before being sidelined by a season-ending ankle injury. He had knee surgery last offseason out of the country without telling the team and barely played in 2009. He appeared in only three games and caught no passes, fumbling on his only punt return chance.

Following knee surgery in early December, Aaron Kampman's goal was to walk without a limp in seven days. He did it. If the rest of his rehab continues at the same pace, the Jacksonville Jaguars could end up with one of the best free agent signings of the offseason. Kampman, a two-time Pro Bowl defensive end who signed a four-year contract worth $26 million with Jacksonville, expects to be on the field when training camp begins in July and give his new team a much-needed boost to its pathetic pass rush. "I anticipate being ready to get after it," Kampman said Monday. "My knee is great. I'm very encouraged by it."

The Panthers added to their purge of veterans on Monday with the release of longtime fullback Brad Hoover, leaving Carolina with only three players on the roster older than 30. Letting 33-year-old Hoover go saves the Panthers close to $1 million in payroll for the 2010 season and ends his 10-year stay in Carolina. "I want to thank the organization for 10 great years and the fans that supported me," Hoover said in a statement released by his agent, Tim Irwin. "I leave with a heavy heart, but I will be trying to play somewhere else." The Panthers will likely turn to second-year pro Tony Fiammetta as his replacement as they rapidly get younger and thriftier.

The Chiefs re-signed WR Chris Chambers to a three-year deal, keeping him with the team after claiming him off waivers last season. Chambers withered with the Chargers before getting released, and when he came to the Chiefs he immediately paid off dividends.

The Detroit Lions have re-signed tight end Will Heller to a three-year deal and signed free agent wide receiver Brian Clark to a one-year deal. They also saved some cap room by releasing veteran DE Dewayne White, who was owed some significant money.

Receiver Kevin Walter has been re-signed by the Houston Texans. Walter started 14 games opposite Andre Johnson last season and had 53 receptions for 611 yards and two touchdowns. He joined the Texans in 2006 and has 195 receptions for 2,470 yards and 15 touchdowns since arriving in Houston. There was some concern that he'd land elsewhere but ultimately re-signed.

The Rams have made their second free-agent signing of the offseason, reaching a deal with veteran defensive tackle Fred Robbins. Robbins is 32 and has played 10 seasons with 116 starts for the Vikings and Giants. He has 28.5 career sacks and was a Pro Bowl alternate in 2008. Most importantly, Robbins was a key member of the 2007 New York team that won the Super Bowl. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo was defensive coordinator for the Giants at the time.

The Steelers have announced the signing of FS Will Allen and WR Arnaz Battle. Allen is expected to battle for the starting safety job opposite of Troy Polamalu while Battle is likely headed to special-teams duty.

The Eagles and wide receiver Jason Avant agreed on a five-year contract. Avant had a career-best 41 receptions for 587 yards and three touchdowns last season as Philadelphia's slot receiver. He has 103 catches and eight TDs in four seasons. "Jason Avant has developed into one of our most dependable and productive players on offense," head coach Andy Reid said. "He's physical, he's tough and he has the respect of all of his teammates. Jason plays the game of football the right way; he competes on a daily basis, whether it's in the game or in practice."

Michael Vick is getting one more big check from the Eagles as a person with knowledge of the contract said the Eagles will pay Vick a $1.5 million roster bonus due Tuesday. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the move hasn't been announced. Paying Vick the bonus doesn't preclude Philadelphia from trading the former Pro Bowl quarterback. Vick is under contract for $5.2 million this year. The Eagles are buying themselves more time - and possibly a draft pick - by giving Vick the bonus. The alternative was to release him and not get anything in return.

The 49ers and David Carr have agreed to a two-year deal according to multiple published reports including the New York Daily News. He is expected to compete for the backup QB job behind fellow former No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith.

The Rams have signed free agent A.J. Feeley as part of what could be a big shakeup at the quarterback position. Media reports said Feeley got a two-year contract. Feeley, who turns 33 in May, was a backup for Carolina in 2009 and has never been a regular starter outside of an ill-fated stint with the Dolphins. He spent his early career in Philadelphia at a time when Andy Reid's staff included Steve Spagnuolo as a defensive assistant and Pat Shurmur as an offensive coach. Spagnuolo is now head coach of the Rams, and Shurmur is offensive coordinator. "A.J. has an understanding of our offensive system and will be a valuable addition for our team," Spagnuolo said.

The future is now for the Raiders' running backs after seven-year veteran Justin Fargas was released following a failed physical. That means Darren McFadden and Michael Bush should team up to power Oakland's strong running game in 2010. Bush had 694 total yards and three touchdowns last season while McFadden contributed 602 total yards and one score.

The Raiders released running back Justin Fargas, saying he failed a physical. Fargas was owed a $1.7 million bonus if he was still on the roster Monday. The veteran has spent all seven seasons of his career with the Raiders and 491 rushing yards and three touchdowns with 113 receiving yards last season.

The New England Patriots agreed to terms on a long-term deal with Pro Bowl nose tackle Vince Wilfork, keeping the big man with the team that he's spent his career with. The Patriots put the franchise tag on Wilfork last month, keeping him from becoming a free agent and giving the sides more time to work out a contract. Wilfork announced the deal on his Twitter feed and Patriots spokesman Stacey James confirmed Saturday that an agreement had been reached. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but ESPN.com, citing an NFL source, said the contract was for five years and $40 million.

QB Chad Pennington agreed to terms on a one-year deal that's expected to be signed by Monday, a person familiar with the discussions said Saturday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the Dolphins hadn't announced an agreement. Pennington is recovering from the third operation of his career on his throwing shoulder. Twice he has returned from injuries to win NFL Comeback Player of the Year, most recently in 2008, when he led the Dolphins to their first playoff berth in seven years. He is expected to return as a backup to Chad Henne.

The Cardinals acquired safety Kerry Rhodes from the New York Jets on Saturday for a fourth-round pick in this year's draft and a seventh-rounder in 2011. Rhodes is expected to move into the starting spot opposite All-Pro Adrian Wilson that was vacated when Antrel Rolle, a Pro Bowl selection last season, signed as a free agent with the New York Giants on Friday - the day after he was released by Arizona.

Special-teams ace Kassim Osgood has always been listed as a wide receiver but sparingly played there. His chance is coming. Osgood signed a new contract with the Jaguars, who will ask him to not only play on special teams but also give him a shot at receiver. Osgood, who is 6-foot-5 and 220 pounds, never got much of a chance with the Chargers because "they drafted some receivers and they wanted to stick with those receivers," he told the Jaguars official team site. "I'm just thrilled to have the opportunity," he added with the site noting that Osgood claims he can run a 4.4 40-yard-dash. "I have some great speed. Whatever the quarterback needs, I'll be there to deliver for him. If he needs to throw deep, I'll go deep."

The Browns signed linebacker Scott Fujita to a multiyear contract Sunday. Fujita is an eight-year veteran who helped lead the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl victory over the Indianapolis Colts last month. He has 19 sacks, five interceptions, nine forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries in eight seasons with Kansas City, Dallas and New Orleans.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Minnesota Vikings lineman Pat Williams echoed teammate Kevin Williams in telling a judge he didn't know an over-the-counter weight-loss supplement contained a substance banned by the NFL.

NEW YORK (AP) -- Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Willie Colon was with teammate Ben Roethlisberger on the night the quarterback was accused of sexual assault in a Georgia club, but did not witness anything, Colon's agent says.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- The Tennessee Titans have agreed to a three-year contract with Will Witherspoon as they revamp their linebacking corps.

Players re-uniting with their former coaches has been a running theme so far in free agency. Ross Tucker examines the trend and explains why it doesn't always work out as expected.

CLEVELAND (AP) -- Former Browns quarterback Derek Anderson has apologized after saying Cleveland fans "don't deserve a winner" following his release.

Running back LaDainian Tomlinson will visit with the Vikings on Thursday, a league source said.

Yes, Antonio Cromartie is a ticking time bomb, but Peter King thinks he is a worthwhile gamble for the Jets and Rex Ryan's aggressive defense. Plus, more thoughts on Big Ben's dilemma.

ATLANTA (AP) -- Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has hired a high-profile Atlanta defense attorney as police investigate a Georgia woman's claim he sexually assaulted her.

LaDainian Tomlinson is coming to Minnesota for a visit, and the Vikings believe he could be a good fit. Tomlinson is scheduled to meet with coach Brad Childress and other members of the organization on Thursday. The 2006 NFL MVP was released by the San Diego Chargers last month after the least-productive season of his prolific nine-year career.

Like one of his errant passes, quarterback Derek Anderson sent a rocket at Browns fans he wishes he could take back. Anderson apologized to Cleveland fans Wednesday after calling them "ruthless" and adding they "don't deserve a winner" following his release by the team. Anderson was let go by the Browns on Tuesday, ending an uneven five-year stint.

Marlin Jackson's surgically repaired knees didn't scare off the Philadelphia Eagles. Still looking to replace Brian Dawkins, the Eagles are taking a chance on Jackson. They signed the free agent defensive back to a two-year contract on Wednesday. A 2005 first-round draft pick by the Indianapolis Colts, Jackson is coming off a pair of season-ending knee injuries.

Will Witherspoon says Tennessee Titans fans need not worry about his age or his production. Witherspoon, who turns 30 in August, said he still has plenty of skills left as he joins his third team in the past year, agreeing to a three-year, $11 million contract with the Titans that was finalized Tuesday night.

Antonio Bryant's agent said the receiver and the Cincinnati Bengals were "very close" to an agreement on Wednesday, a move that would likely preclude the addition of Terrell Owens. For the second year in a row, the Bengals are trying to find a complement for Chad Ochocinco, the only receiver with appreciable experience on the roster.

Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Willie Colon was with teammate Ben Roethlisberger on the night the quarterback was accused of sexual assault in a Georgia club, but did not witness anything, Colon's agent said Wednesday. Colon was at the Capital City nightclub in Milledgeville, Ga., last Friday, for a birthday party for Roethlisberger.

Free-agent nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu signed a two-year, $6.975 million contract with the Washington Redskins on Wednesday. The 6-foot-5, 345-pound Kemoeatu spent last season on injured reserve with the Carolina Panthers after tearing his Achilles' tendon in training camp. His agent, Ken Vierra, said in a telephone interview that the tendon is "structurally sound" and Kemoeatu is able...

Offensive lineman Wade Smith, an unrestricted free agent courted for his versatility, has agreed to terms with the Houston Texans, his Nashville-based agent, Brian Parker, confirmed. Smith's four-year deal includes $6.25 million in guaranteed money in the first year and averages about $3 million a season.

The Kansas City Chiefs have signed free agent defensive tackle Shaun Smith, who played last season for Cincinnati. The Chiefs announced the deal Wednesday but declined to disclose terms. The 6-foot-2, 325-pound Smith has played in 63 games, including 27 starts, with New Orleans, Cincinnati and Cleveland.

One day after the Browns released Derek Anderson, there is mounting evidence around the league that Brady Quinn could be next.

Wide receiver Antonio Bryant has agreed to four-year deal with Cincinnati Bengals, his agent, Patrick Brougham, told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Wednesday.

LaDainian Tomlinson is coming to Minnesota for a visit, and the Vikings believe he'd be a good fit.

Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Willie Colon was with teammate Ben Roethlisberger on the night the quarterback was accused of sexual assault in a Georgia club, but did not witness anything, Colon's agent says.

The Washington Redskins market search for a veteran running back has brought them to Larry Johnson, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Source: Kevin Faulk, Patriots reach 1-year deal

The agent for Greg Ellis said the veteran pass rusher is open to returning to the Dallas Cowboys.

Vikings defensive lineman Kevin Williams testified Wednesday that his contract barred last-minute tactics to lose weight, including the use of diuretics like the one that got him in trouble with the league.

Two-time All-America nose guard Terrence Cody weighed in at 348 pounds at Alabama's pro day on Wednesday, with representatives from all 32 NFL teams present.

Kansas City signed running back Thomas Jones to a two-year deal worth $5 million, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Dozens of protesters lined up outside a banquet hall where Michael Vick received an award on the same day the Eagles exercised their option on him.

The Dolphins re-signed Jason Ferguson even though he faces a suspension.

Vince Young will reportedly receive a $4.25 million roster bonus from the Titans on Wednesday.

Former Patriots defensive lineman Jarvis Green signed a four-year contract with Denver Tuesday, the Broncos confirmed Tuesday.

The Tennessee Titans are finally on the board in free agency, landing former Rams and Eagles linebacker Will Witherspoon with a three-year deal worth $11 million.