Minnesota Vikings 09/09/2006 11:03 AMThe Pioneer Press reports about 5½ months after making OG Steve Hutchinson the NFL's highest-paid guard, the Vikings made OT Bryant McKinnie essentially the league's highest-paid offensive lineman. According to a person close to the situation, McKinnie has agreed to terms on a seven-year extension worth up to $54.4 million. Included in that contract is his $900,000 base salary for the 2006 season, as well as another $17.25 million in guarantees. McKinnie, who did not return messages left on his cell phone, is expected to sign the contract today. Vikings public relations director Bob Hagan declined comment.Read more
Detroit Lions 09/09/2006 10:55 AMThe Detroit Free Press reports the Lions released RB Arlen Harris, and Ellis took his roster spot. No explanation was given. The Lions announced the move after Marinelli spoke to the media for the final time before Sunday's game. Harris played for Martz in St. Louis, knows the offense and was expected to play a role. The depth chart lists him as RB Kevin Jones' backup. The Lions cut RB Artose Pinner last Saturday, and Minnesota claimed Pinner off waivers. The Lions might intend to re-sign Harris in the near future, but if so, they risk another team picking him up in the interim.Read more
Washington Redskins 09/09/2006 10:39 AMThe Washington Post reports RB Clinton Portis practiced for a time in pads during yesterday's shortened practice but, as he did Thursday, he essentially ruled himself out for Monday's game. "The way things look, bro, we'll aim to probably see 2-6 against Dallas," Portis said, referring to his number and to the Redskins' second game of the season, Sept. 17 in Dallas. "Who knows? Hopefully, I can come back against Dallas, but if not, I should be ready for [Week 3 against] Houston. I'm trying to work my way back. They want me 100 percent, fully competent. They want to see me go and bench 285 and I told him I've never benched 285 in my life."Read more
Jacksonville Jaguars 09/09/2006 10:31 AMThe Florida Times-Union reports Jaguars CB Brian Williams apologized for his DUI arrest, and will play in the Jaguars' season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. The team won't fine or suspend Williams, who signed a $32 million free agent contract in the offseason, because "dealing with the incident will be plenty punishment," HC Jack Del Rio said on Friday.Read more
