Atlanta Falcons 12/08/2006 9:23 AMThe Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the Falcons and representatives for DE Patrick Kerney have begun contract extension talks, Kerney confirmed Thursday. No deal will be consummated until January â at the earliest â because of the team's tapped-out salary cap. The Falcons have said for months that they planned to extend the pending free agent and former Pro Bowler. They did not back off after he was placed on injured reserve Nov. 20 with a torn right pectoral muscle, which is expected to completely heal in time for him to participate in most offseason activities.Read more
Miami Dolphins 12/08/2006 8:52 AMThe Palm Beach Post reports Dolphins DE Jason Taylor was named AFC defensive player of the month for November. Taylor posted nine tackles, two sacks, two interceptions (both for touchdowns), forced three fumbles and broke up six passes. "The guy had a fantastic month," HC Nick Saban said. "He played as well and made as many plays probably over the last month as any player that I've ever been associated with or been around." This is the third time Taylor won the award, and the first since earning the honor in both October and November of 2002.Read more
Pittsburgh Steelers 12/08/2006 8:49 AMThe Post-Gazette reports RB Willie Parker became the first back in the Steelers' history not only to rush for more than 200 yards twice in one season but also to do it twice in his career. Parker's 26-yard run in the second quarter did not lead to points, but it produced his second consecutive 1,000-yard season. Parker had 106 yards rushing on 15 carries with 51/2 minutes to go in the first half. He topped 200 yards with 1:55 left in the third quarter. It was his fifth 100-yard game this season, all in Heinz Field, and his second 200-yard game this season. Parker became the third Steelers running back to top 1,000 yards in consecutive years. The others were Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis.Read more
Cincinnati Bengals 12/08/2006 8:42 AMThe Dayton Daily News reports WR Chad Johnson has 20 career games with at least 100 receiving yards. He needs one more to pass Isaac Curtis (20) for the most in Bengals' history.Read more
