NFL

The Rams have placed QB Marc Bulger (fractured shinbone) on injured reserve, ending his season. This move was more of a formality as Bulger’s season was over several weeks ago. Bulger, 32, is scheduled to make $8.5 million next season and could be cut in the offseason in favor of a younger replacement. The St. Louis Rams are likely to have a top-three pick in the 2010 NFL draft and are expected to take a long look at a new quarterback. Look for the 49ers and Raiders to take a long look at Bulger if he is healthy.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Washington: Washington Redskins DT Albert Haynesworth denies reports that he told teammates to show up late for a Christmas day practice and sources tell the Washington Post that the $100 million man will start Sunday night. Its clear that Haynesworth doesn’t care for the defensive scheme and was reportedly laughing with teammates when Jim Zorn went with the ridiculous fake field goal play twice last week.

Chicago: Chicago Bears beat writer Brad Biggs thinks that Devin Hester (calf) is unlikely to play against the Vikings Monday. Hester was unable to put in a complete practice all week and the 20 degree weather will likely keep his calf tight.

Chicago: The Bears placed LE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Ogunleye, 32, is expected to fully recover from this small fracture in his fibula, but his career with the Bears may be over. He’ll be a free agent after this season and the Bears traded for Gaines Adams to possibly take his spot. Ogunleye finishes the season with 6 1/2 sacks.

Indianapolis: The Colts signed QB Drew Willy off their practice squad Saturday, a sign that Peyton Manning will likely rest Sunday. If you haven’t been convinced to bench your Indianapolis Colts yet, this should be the final straw. Willy will start the game as the No. 3 QB but will become Curtis Painter’s backup if/when Manning takes a seat.

Carolina: DeAngelo Williams (doubtful, ankle) traveled with the Panthers to New York for Sunday’s game against the Giants. The fact that Williams made the trip is a glimmer of hope that he will play, but we still doubt it.

Minnisota: Vikings WR Percy Harvin was not on the Vikings’ final injury report. Harvin practiced all week and no one seems concerned at all with the rookie’s neck problems. He should resume a full workload as a major part of the game plan Monday night.