NFL

Cowboys beat writer Todd Archer says there is “zero truth” to the Tashard Choice-for-Antonio Cromartie trade rumors. The rumor began from a post on Chargers OLB Shaun Phillips’ Twitter page, but was later taken down. The deal would only make sense for the San Diego Chargers, who need a lead tailback and are shopping their underachieving corner.

Choice is seemingly “stuck” as a third-stringer, but the Cowboys need him with Marion Barber apparently breaking down. They are also not in immediate need of a defensive back that can’t tackle. The rumors may persist because of Wade Phillips’ San Diego ties to Cromartie, but look for the Dallas Cowboys to shop Barber first, if any of their backs truly go on the trade block.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

San Diego: Chargers beat reporter Kevin Acee predicts that the Chargers will wait until March 4 to release LaDainian Tomlinson. Acee admits the transaction may happen sooner, but GM A.J. Smith has been known to wait as long as possible in this type of situation. The NFL will also be buzzing with transactions and restricted free agent tendering at the time, decreasing the bad publicity San Diego gets for cutting its longtime MVP.

Tennessee: Beat reporter Gary Eastwick doesn’t see Chris Johnson getting as many snaps in 2010 as he did in 2009. Johnson was on the field for virtually every offensive snap in 2009 as LenDale White and Javon Ringer became innocent bystanders. The Tennessee Titans have already hinted that they want to preserve Johnson even though he’s missed just one game in two seasons.

Arizona: Two people in contact with the Dolphins could “envision” the team offering a draft pick for Anquan Boldin, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. The pick would be a third-rounder or later. Jackson is a columnist — not a reporter — but this is the second time in a week we’ve heard substantial rumors about Boldin and the Dolphins. Boldin is big and as tough as they come, fitting VP of football operations Bill Parcells’ profile, and would fill a glaring need as a play-making No. 1 receiver for Chad Henne. Jackson adds that the Dolphins aren’t interested in Brandon Marshall.

Carolina: During a radio interview, Julius Peppers said he doesn’t want a long-term extension from the Carolina Panthers. Panthers beat writer Darin Gantt says “it’s becoming more and more clear that Peppers isn’t going to be here next year.” Peppers is upset that the Panthers are giving him and his agent the “silent treatment.” Gantt suggests that the Panthers should put the franchise tag on Peppers with designs on trading him. The Eagles, Patriots and Falcons are rumored as possible landing spots.