Citing “multiple league and media sources,” Profootballtalk.com reports that Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford may refuse to sign a pre-draft contract with the St. Louis Rams. JaMarcus Russell is the only No. 1 pick to not sign before the draft in the last four years. By refusing to sign, Bradford would gain leverage in contract talks.

The move could also spur St. Louis to shop the pick, fearing Bradford might hold out like Russell, or even draft another player. Signing early and reporting on time would give Bradford his best chance to start on day one. Being drafted No. 1 would also give him his best shot at the biggest contract.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Minnesota: The Vikings hosted CB Tye Hill for a free agent visit on Monday. Hill is reportedly deciding between Minnesota Vikings and Tennessee, the latter of whom he met with last week. Both teams are in need of corner help, but Hill’s track record says he would do more to exacerbate the problem than cure it.

Minnesota: Vikings signed DL Michael Montgomery to a one-year contract. A misfit in Green Bay’s 3-4 last year, Montgomery returns to the friendly confines of a 4-3 alignment in Minnesota. He says he hopes to play left end for the Vikes, but at 6’5/285 is more likely to earn playing time on the interior. If Montgomery does see action outside, he’ll back up LE Ray Edwards.

San Diego: Unsigned restricted free agent Darren Sproles is participating in the San Diego Chargers‘ voluntary offseason program. He signed an injury waiver to protect himself. Sproles’ participation could mean that the sides are in long-term contract talks, or at least that Sproles isn’t upset with playing the 2010 season on another one-year tender.

Chicago: Greg Olsen reported to the Bears’ voluntary offseason program on time Monday. Olsen has been concerned that his role would diminish in new offensive coordinator Mike Martz’s tight end-unfriendly scheme, so if the Bears wanted to keep Olsen this year, it’s a good sign that he’s participating already. Still, we’d be surprised if the Bears didn’t field trade offers for Olsen on draft weekend after signing Brandon Manumaleuna to a $15 million deal.

2010 NFL Draft: Northwestern DE Corey Wootton ran in the 4.93-4.95 range in the forty-yard dash at the Wildcats’ Monday Pro Day. Wootton’s ten-yard splits of 1.66 and 1.71 seconds were more impressive. He also had a 32″ vertical and 9-foot long jump. At 6’6/272, Wootton’s best fit is probably at end in an up-tempo 3-4 defense like the Jets’ or Cowboys’.

The Chicago Bears have released LT Orlando Pace. Pace isn’t yet 35 and was due a reasonable $3.75M salary in 2010, but his performance as both a pass and run blocker last year was indicative of a player that’s fallen “off the cliff.” No longer mobile enough to ward off edge rushers and long short on power, Pace will struggle to find a new home. Chicago will move forward with Chris Williams on Jay Cutler’s blind side.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

San Diego: Citing a league source, Lions beat writer Tom Kowalski reports that a trade sending Antonio Cromartie to Detroit is now “highly unlikely.” It appears Detroit balked when San Diego Chargers asked for Maurice Morris. The Lions have reportedly “opted to move in a different direction.” Though Morris is a replacement-level back, he is versed in OC Scott Linehan’s scheme and showed the ability to perform at a high level in spot duty with 126 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries against the Cardinals in Week 15 last year. Morris would also be the Lions’ every-down back if the season started today.

New Orleans: The Saints have extended a first- and third-round tender to restricted free agent RG Jahri Evans. The sides are working on a long-term deal, but New Orleans Saints had to make this move before the March 4 deadline to ensure Evans wouldn’t become an unrestricted free agent. Evans, 26, was a 2009 first-team All-Pro selection.

San Francisco: The 49ers will not tender DB Marcus Hudson, making him an unrestricted free agent. Hudson would’ve made just over $1 million with the lowest possible tender, but the San Francisco 49ers didn’t deem him worthy as mostly a non-factor on defense. Hudson offers special teams value, though, and should get some interest.

San Francisco: The 49ers have extended a low tender to restricted free agent LG David Baas. San Francisco clearly doesn’t think too highly of Baas, who was originally a second-round pick. Per new CBA rules, he’d only cost another team a third-round pick to sign away. Baas started all 16 games for the Niners last year.

New York: The Jets will release CB Lito Sheppard on Friday, the New York Daily News has confirmed. The OCNN (Ochocinco’s News Network) had the news first. Sheppard, 29, remained injury prone in his one-year Jets stint and was often burned when on the field. He wasn’t going to last with a $10 million roster bonus pending.

2010 NFL Draft: Scout.com’s Adam Caplan calls Fordham QB John Skelton “clearly” the strongest-armed quarterback at the Combine. “Skelton can make any throw, and he can make it look easy,” Caplan wrote after observing Skelton in Indianapolis and at a pre-draft all-star event. Skelton’s downfalls are his sense of timing — typical for D-IAA QBs — and accuracy. Skelton is a project, but with upside to someday start in the NFL

Chargers beat writer Kevin Acee reports that he’s heard Combine buzz that Antonio Cromartie could be shipped to the Lions “soon.” San Diego Chargers had been looking for a running back in return, but the Lions don’t have a good one to offer. Thus, he’s likely to command a mid-round draft pick as compensation. The fit in Detroit is good because DC Gunther Cunningham uses lots of press coverage, an area in which Cromartie can excel. He doesn’t tackle well enough to succeed in heavy zone systems.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Green Bay: Packers coach Mike McCarthy revealed Sunday that Jermichael Finley will move into the starting lineup in 2010. Donald Lee will block and play special teams. “Yes, (Finley) is (the starter),” McCarthy confirmed. “What’s exciting about him, he gets better every week.” As an every-down tight end, Finley’s snap count will increase dramatically. He finished 2009 with a bang, catching 38 passes for 416 yards and four touchdowns in Green Bay Packer’s final seven regular season games.

New York: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Thomas Jones will not restructure his contract, and he’s expected to be released within a week. The reports of a Jones-Jets divorce have been rolling in once a day, with Schefter’s as the most definitive. The New York Jets don’t want to pay a total of $6 million for a running back on the decline, yet Jones has earned his bonus. Due to hit free agency on March 5, Jones will draw more interest than fellow aging backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Brian Westbrook.

2010 NFL Draft: Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen (toe surgery) refuted NFL Network’s Charley Casserly’s report that he won’t be ready for a full workout before April’s draft.

Casserly said the potential first-rounder won’t be ready until the summer, but Clausen expects to be fully ready for his pro day on April 9 in South Bend. “That is what I am shooting for (to do everything at his pro day) and that is what the doctor told me,” said Clausen, who was very poised at Saturday’s interview session. He remains a likely top-15 pick.

2010 NFL Draft: Three sources familiar with the situation tell Yahoo’s Jason Cole that Dez Bryant’s behavior in college was “consistently irresponsible.” “I wouldn’t draft that kid unless I had someone to wake him up in the morning to get to meetings, someone to wake him up for practice and someone to wake him up for games,” one source said. Another source stressed that Bryant wasn’t just late to meetings, practice, or warmups. He was often late to actual games. Yet another characterized Bryant as “just goofy.” It’s possible that teams are spreading bad info about Bryant in hopes of spurring a draft-day slide.

The 49ers placed the franchise tag on NT Aubrayo Franklin. Franklin joins Pats NT Vince Wilfork as the only other player under the tag, with Pittsburgh Steelers NT Casey Hampton next up. Despite the tag, beat writer Matt Maiocco is hearing that Franklin is available in trade for a first-round pick (which would give the Niners three first-rounders). Franklin is guaranteed $7.003 million this season and GM Scot McCloughan indicated that the sides will continue to discuss a long-term deal.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Green Bay: NFL Network’s Jason LaCanfora reports the Packers are now planning to place the franchise tag on NT Ryan Pickett. The Green Bay Packers’ use of the tag would further highlight the increasing value of 3-4 nose tackles, giving the position a clean-sweep of franchise players this year. The sides are still working on an extension, but the Packers are prepared to pay the $7M for one year to retain their run-stuffer.

Philadelphia: Eagles coach Andy Reid indicated at Tuesday’s press conference that LeSean McCoy “will take the ball from here” following Brian Westbrook’s release. McCoy will be the Philadelphia Eagles feature back in 2010, with fullback Leonard Weaver chipping in.

San Diego: According to beat writer Kevin Acee, the San Diego Chargers have no intention of using the franchise tag on RB/KR Darren Sproles for a second straight season. The Bolts will talk to Sproles’ agent during the Combine this week. They remain interested in a long-term deal, but Sproles won’t be receiving a one-year offer at close to $7.3M. GM A.J. Smith maintains that Sproles is maxed out as a return ace and backup runner, so expect the free agent to test the market this time around.

Arizona: The Cardinals are not expected to seriously discuss a contract extension with Pro Bowl DE Darnell Dockett before the 2010 season starts. This is starting to mirror Anquan Boldin’s situation from the past couple of years. The Cardinals will want to figure out how much of their budget is left over after filling holes and signing their own players this offseason. We’re not expecting a Dockett extension until next offseason, if at all.

Oakland: Beat writer Rich Cimini believes the Jets could realistically be interested in a trade for Nnamdi Asomugha, who is reportedly being dangled by the Raiders. ESPN AFC East blogger Tim Graham also considers it a possibility. Asomugha made news at the Pro Bowl when he said he was interested in joining Darrelle Revis as a dynamic shutdown duo. As a final eight team, the Jets can’t sign free agents, but they’re free to improve their team through trades. Asomugha would have to be open to restructuring his deal to play for a contender.

The San Diego Chargers have released the face of the franchise, RB LaDainian Tomlinson. The Bolts are off the hook for his $2 million bonus and $3M in salary and will dramatically overhaul their backfield this spring. Darren Sproles is a restricted free agent who will command nearly $7M to retain and 32-year-old No. 3 back Michael Bennett is due a $1.25M salary.

While LT’s release may seem like a sad ending to a Hall of Fame Chargers career, he didn’t make it smooth by ripping the franchise and refusing to take a pay cut despite obviously declining skills. Tomlinson averaged 3.3 YPC last year and turns 31 in June.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

New Orleans: ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Len Pasquarelli report that the New Orleans Saints will not use the franchise tag on free agent Darren Sharper. “He’ll be a free agent,” Schefter said Monday, after NFL.com’s Steve Wyche reported last week that Sharper would be tagged.

The franchise deadline is Thursday. New Orleans’ decision may hinge on its ability to sign Sharper to a cheaper deal and/or confidence in Usama Young and 2009 first-round pick Malcolm Jenkins, who are both candidates to take over at free safety.

Green Bay: Packers beat writer Greg Bedard expects restricted free agent FS Nick Collins to hold out “for real” this offseason. This is assuming the Green Bay Packers don’t sign Collins long term, and instead extend him a restricted free agent tender. Aside from his play, obviously elite with 13 INTs over the last two years, Collins has no leverage other than his ability to hold out. Collins is only 26 and has earned a top contract for a safety, so it would be nice to see GM Ted Thompson step up in this case.

Carolina: An NFL executive told SI’s Peter King that he will be “surprised” if Julius Peppers gets $10 million a year in free agency. For comparison, Jared Allen makes over $12M annually. If the exec is right, Peppers may have to settle for a below-market deal despite the forthcoming uncapped year. The development would be a major disappointment for Peppers, who Carolina previously offered to make the NFL’s richest defender.

Buffalo: Newsday’s Bob Glauber reports that the Bengals will not sign free agent Terrell Owens this offseason. Glauber interestingly adds that Cincinnati Bengals “regrets” signing Laveranues Coles last offseason, and won’t repeat the mistake of going after a wide receiver in career decline. Owens has not been linked to any other teams to this point.

2010 NFL Draft: NFL Network’s Mike Mayock has Carlos Dunlap of Florida rated No. 4 among defensive ends for the 2010 NFL Draft. Mayock has USF’s Jason Pierre-Paul first, Georgia Tech’s Derrick Morgan second, Michigan’s Brandon Graham third, and USC’s Everson Griffen fifth. Dunlap was hailed as a top-ten pick immediately after he declared early for the draft, but his stock has slipped since pleading no contest to a DUI charge on December 1. Dunlap’s play-to-play effort is also in question.

The Bucs and Rams have reportedly explored a deal that would send the No. 3 overall pick, a third-round pick, and QB Josh Johnson to St. Louis Rams for the first overall selection. The Bucs would then draft Ndamukong Suh with the No. 1 pick.

According to Scout.com, the Rams compare Johnson to Michael Vick athletically, and they believe he has even more upside as a passer. While Johnson is an intriguing developmental QB, he’s not close to being ready to start at the NFL level. The proposed deal makes sense for the Bucs, but it wouldn’t solve the Rams’ quarterback dilemma for 2010.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Arizona: The Arizona Cardinals are expected to release FS Antrel Rolle this week. The sides have been negotiating a contract extension, but cutting Rolle will allow the Cards to avoid paying his impending $4 million roster bonus. It may also very well cost them their starting free safety. Rolle will become an unrestricted free agent and generate interest because of his play-making ability. The 27-year-old has 10 interceptions over the past three years.

Arizona: The Cardinals are expected to make Steve Breaston a first-round tender offer in the coming days.
The tender will position Breaston to receive $2.946M in 2010, when he may ascend to a starting job for the first time in his career. The Cards couldn’t get away with tendering him at a lower level without risking a team swooping in to offer him a long-term deal.

New England: Randy Moss doesn’t expect the Patriots to re-sign him after his contract is up next offseason.
Moss also confirmed that he played through a painful shoulder separation sustained in Week 5. He indicated that he has “a lot of respect” for the Pats, but he understands they aren’t an organization that likes to pay high-dollar contracts. In the final year of a three-year, $27M deal, Moss expects to play for a new team in 2011. Local beat writers have speculated that the Pats aim to get back to a more conservative offense with a dominant ground attack.

San Diego: The Chargers are making plans for Antoine Cason to be one of their starting corners in 2010, according to beat writer Kevin Acee. The San Diego Chargers are high enough on Cason to be shopping Antonio Cromartie. Cason, a 2008 first-round pick, struggled a little bit as the nickel back in 2009 and was replaced at one point by Steve Gregory. However, San Diego is confident Cason will be better at his natural corner spot opposite Quentin Jammer.

Carolina: Multiple league sources tell the Boston Globe that free agent Julius Peppers is too big a risk for any team to invest in long term. “I wouldn’t touch him,” said an ex-Panthers personnel man. “On the field, he’s a freak athletically, but it’s whether he shows up or not. He’ll go two and three games and do nothing but take up space.

Then he’ll have two sacks, a forced fumble, a pick, and change the game.” According to an AFC scout, Peppers “could end up costing some personnel guy his job…If you pay this guy, I don’t think you’ll see a double-digit sack [season] again the rest of his career.”

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.

Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson said Thursday that he’s come to terms with the fact that he won’t be back in San Diego in 2010. “I’m not coming back,” Tomlinson said. “I’ve accepted it.” The future Hall of Famer said of his time with the San Diego Chargers that the “the football part is fun, but the business part sucks.” LT doesn’t know when he’ll be released, but his agent will likely call the team to “expediate the process.” If Tomlinson is released, he will likely be splitting carries with another back next season.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Denver: Broncoes WR Brandon Marshall said Thursday that he’s open to playing for the Denver Broncos next season. “Last year I handled things totally wrong,” admitted Marshall. “I just looked at the business side of things and took things too personally.” Marshall is attempting to repair his image, but the Broncos would clearly prefer to trade him this offseason. Perhaps Marshall’s agent has finally made it clear that his best way to get a contract extension is to be a good team player. Marshall will likely still be dealt this offseason to the highest bidder.

Buffalo: Profootballtalk.com’s Mike Florio reports the Bills will hire University of Florida defensive coordinator George Edwards for the same position in Buffalo. The Buffalo Bills have confirmed the report. Edwards left the Dolphins for the Gators job just three weeks ago. Since 1998, he has served as a successful linebackers coach with the Cowboys, Redskins, Browns, and Dolphins.

It was in Dallas that he worked with head coach Chan Gailey. In his first experience as a coordinator, Edwards indicated that he will start out with a “3-4″ scheme with an ability to flex to a “4-3″ at times. It’s still a big change for a defense that has run “4-3″ for nine years. Look for the Bills to aquire a linebacker in the draft or free agency in the offseason.

New Orleans: Beat writer Mike Triplett calls the report of a new contract for Drew Brees “a bit premature.” Triplett does expect Brees to get a new deal “at some point over the next two years,” but he points out that the sides have held no serious discussions on a contract. The Saints are expected to open talks this offseason, but “nothing is imminent.” Brees has two years remaining on his original six-year, $60M deal.

Miami: Free agent Chad Pennington (shoulder surgery) “has decided to make it his priority to stay with the Dolphins,” according to the Miami Herald’s Jeff Darlington. Pennington is willing to back up Chad Henne, and the Miami Dolphins will “entertain the possibility” only after they see him throw — specifically a 15-yard out route. His shoulder was discovered to have only damage to the labrum and the shoulder capsule, leading to expectations of a full recovery. If Miami opts against re-signing him (Pat White and Tyler Thigpen are under contract), the Cardinals are believed to have interest in Pennington as veteran insurance behind Matt Leinart.

Donte' Stallworth and Brady Quinn

The Browns have “no intention” of bringing Donte’ Stallworth back for the 2010 season, according to beat writer Tony Grossi. Stallworth is eligible to be reinstated from his suspension after the Super Bowl. He’s due a $1M bonus in March in addition to a $2.775M salary.

There’s no chance he sees that money. Still, Stallworth will end up receiving $9.6M in total for 17 receptions and 170 yards over two years with the Denver Broncos. The injury-prone 29-year-old will carry a ton of baggage the free agent market and will find it tough trying to land with an NFL team.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Oakland: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Tom Cable will stay on as Oakland Raiders head coach in 2010. Cable did get his team to play hard down the stretch for a second straight season.

Owner Al Davis appears to be going with Cable’s ability to motivate over JaMarcus Russell, who Cable benched in-season despite Davis’ belief that the 2007 No. 1 overall pick is a “great player.”

Cable’s play calling duties are likely to be stripped, however, in favor of offensive coordinator target Hue Jackson. In the last year of his contract, Cable enters 2010 as a lame duck and could be fired during the regular season.

Look for rumors to persist that the Raiders are “gauging interest” from other coaches regarding Oakland’s head coaching job. If the Raiders can find a better replacement, Cable could be dumped at any time.

San Diego: Chargers assistant head coach/TEs Rob Chudzinski has dropped out of the running for the Bears’ offensive coordinator vacancy. Chudzinski’s contract is expiring, but San Diego Chargers is expected to pursue re-signing him.

Another blow is dealt to Chicago’s fruitless OC search, with GM Jerry Angelo already having missed out on Jeremy Bates (originally his No. 1 candidate) and Charlie Weis.

Buffalo: Mike Jurecki of XTRA Sports 910 in Phoenix reports Cardinals running backs coach Curtis Modkins will be named offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills. The Bills requested permission to interview Modkins earlier in the week, and the sides reached an agreement by Friday night.

Modkins has a history with Gailey, as the two worked together at Georgia Tech and in Kansas City with the Chiefs for a combined seven years. Gailey will maintain play-calling duties in Buffalo.

Minnesota: Percy Harvin (migraines) participated in Saturday’s practice and team meetings after staying home Thursday and Friday. Harvin is traveling with the team to New Orleans.

His migraines had reportedly lessened by Saturday, but “the problem still lingers.” Barring a setback, Harvin appears likely to suit up Sunday evening, though his exact role remains up in the air.

Miles Austin

Cowboy’s owner Jerry Jones indicated Thursday that he’s eager to sign restricted free agent Miles Austin to a long-term deal. Jerry’s son, executive VP Stephen Jones, wasn’t ready to talk about a long-term extension for Austin after his NFL record 421 yards in his first two starts.

Austin’s dominant performance in the second half of the season erased all doubts. His agent can start with Roy Williams’ ludicrous five-year, $45 million deal and go from there. Austin is clearly the best receiver on the Dallas Cowboys and an emerging superstar in the NFL.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Minnesota: Minnesota Vikings coach Brad Childress confirmed that Percy Harvin missed Thursday’s practice with a migraine headache. There’s no telling how long he’ll be sidelined, though Childress believes he’ll be “OK.”

While Harvin was able to play through the migraines early in the season, he missed one game and parts of another down the stretch due to a migraine. The Vikes passing attack suffered its biggest slump during those two weeks. Harvin could be a game time decision this weekend.

Dallas: Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips’ extension runs through 2011, not 2012 as previously reported. Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Phillips was to receive a 2012 option year as well, but it was scratched at the last minute. Essentially, owner Jerry Jones picked up the 2010 option and added one more year.

“I’m encouraged by the progress that we made this year, but in no way are we satisfied,” Jones explained. “This contract represents that. Two years in the NFL is an eternity, but it has to be urgent.” If the Cowboys don’t make it to the NFC title game next season, Philips is likely to be fired.

San Diego: According to beat writer Kevin Acee, it’s a “foregone conclusion” that LaDainian Tomlinson won’t be back with the San Diego Chargers in 2010. Acee points out that there won’t be a renegotiation on the $5 million LT is due because “they did that last year to avoid one this year.”

Tomlinson’s standoff with GM A.J. Smith was ugly at times last year, so we’re hoping the final parting goes more smoothly. Don’t expect teams around the league to fight over Tomlinson, as he might not even find a starting job next season. Expect the Chargers to draft a RB in the first or second round of this Aprils draft.

Arizona: Matt Leinart’s inaccuracy has “eroded confidence among the receiving corps,” according to Arizona Cardinals beat writer Kent Somers. Not only does Leinart diminish their playmaking ability, his high throws make them targets for big hits. Per Somers, the offense “will no doubt change” if Leinart takes over, with the running game taking center stage.

Chicago: Bears RB Matt Forte reportedly underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee during the past two weeks. A post-season MRI revealed the need for the procedure. Forte showed toughness in playing through a partially torn hamstring and an early-season MCL sprain, though it’s not known if the scope is related to the latter.

Just when it seemed that Brandon Marshall turned the corner and was establishing himself as one of the top wide receivers in the league, Marshall and Denver Head Coach Josh are at odds over Marshall announcing to the media that he will not play on Sunday.

McDaniels announced Friday he’s benching Marshall, his Pro Bowl wide receiver, for the team’s pivotal season finale against Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. “Our word for the week has been accountability. And we’re looking to put the 45 guys on the field on Sunday that want to play together, want to help us try to win and qualify for the playoffs,” McDaniels said. ” … And anybody that showed any indifference to that, we’ll play without them.” Considering the latest rift happened during week 17, we could have seen the last of Marshall in a Denver uniform.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Denver: Eddie Royal (neck/head) has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs. The Broncos will play without Brandon Marshall, Tony Scheffler and Royal. It’s turning into a terrible situation for Kyle Orton and a Denver Broncos team that is still alive in the playoff chase.

New Orleans: Saints QB Drew Brees will get some rest in the New Orleans Saints’ regular-season finale at Carolina, likely keeping his NFL-record completion percentage intact. Coach Sean Payton has decided to start Mark Brunell in place of the star quarterback for Sunday’s game.

New Orleans:Saints FS Darren Sharper (knee) will not play in Week 17. Sharper is just resting, along with the majority of the other Saints starters. He’ll be ready for the Saints’ playoff opener in two weeks.

San Diego: Billy Volek is expected to get his most extensive playing time in two years when the red-hot San Diego Chargers host the Washington Redskins in a meaningless regular-season finale Sunday.

Tennessee: The Titans are discussing the possibility of a new contract for Chris Johnson, according to ESPN’s Len Pasquarelli. Johnson, who is one of the leagues top backs, is scheduled to make only $550,000 in 2010 per his rookie deal. It would be a good idea to lock up Johnson if the Tennessee Titans had the opportunity and avoid franchising the speedy back when he reaches free agency.

Buffalo: The Bills are expected to interview Brian Billick and Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer about their head coaching vacancy, reports Yahoo’s Jason Cole.

Oakland: Raiders QB Bruce Gradkowski (torn MCLs) is out for Sunday’s season finale. It’s unfortunate that Gradkowski got hurt in Week 14 because the Raiders’ offense was showing signs of life with him under center. He doesn’t have much of an arm, but his mobility and decision making was leading to production.

Titans RB Chris Johnson rushed 21 times for 142 yards with one touchdown and added three catches for 37 yards in Friday night’s loss to the Chargers. Johnson broke 100 rushing yards for the 10th straight game and is now 128 yards away from 2,000 rushing yards on the season. The Titans left him in despite trailing 42-10 and Johnson broke off a 30-yard touchdown run that was lightly contested by the San Diego Chargers. If Johnson is going to reach 2,000 yards rushing this season, the 30-yard run will be a huge factor.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

San Diego: Chargers QB Philip Rivers completed 21-of-27 passes for 264 yards with two touchdowns as the Chargers clinched the No. 2 seed in the AFC Friday night. Rivers has now thrown for more than 4,000 yards in two consecutive seasons and is having an MVP-type year. It could have been even better tonight, but the Chargers sat Rivers down for the entire fourth quarter.

Oakland: Raiders RB Justin Fargas (knee) missed Raiders practice again Friday. Fargas is unlikely to be active against the Browns, which sets up Michael Bush to start after posting 133 yards and a TD off the bench in Week 15. The matchup is favorable and Bush can definitely play, but relying on any Raider in fantasy championships is a gamble especially when Darren McFadden will be involved as well.

Philadelphia: Brian Westbrook could be a decoy, part-time player or third-down specialist. All that matters is he’ll be back on the field. Westbrook completed a full week of practice and is expected to play for the Philadelphia Eagles against Denver on Sunday after missing five weeks with a concussion. “We’ll see how his numbers go and how he feels,” coach Andy Reid said Friday. “I’ll stay in communication with him throughout the game. He’ll have a chance to play. He’s done well this week.”

Washington: Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth has been sent home from practice. Coach Jim Zorn told reporters Friday he sent home Haynesworth for disciplinary reasons. Zorn says Haynesworth will still play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys but might not start.

Carolina: Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams is doubtful for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants after missing his third straight practice with a sprained left ankle.

Buffalo: Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick was limited in practice Friday and his availability for Sunday’s game in Atlanta will be a game-time decision. Fitzpatrick participated in individual workouts but not in practice. Interim coach Perry Fewell said he hopes Fitzpatrick might be available against the Falcons.

Patriots (7-3):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 29 (3rd)
Total Yards/GM: 416.1 (2nd)
Rush Yards/GM: 113.8 (16th)
Pass Yards/GM: 302.3 (2nd)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 16.4 (2nd)
Total Yards/GM: 296.7 (7th)
Rush Yards/GM: 109.4 (14th)
Pass Yards/GM: 187.3 (6tht)

Saints (10-0):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 36.9 (1st)
Total Yards/GM: 420.5 (1st)
Rush Yards/GM: 154.3 (5th)
Pass Yards/GM: 266.2 (6th)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 20.4 (13th)
Total Yards/GM: 330.6 (17th)
Rush Yards/GM: 115.7 (20th)
Pass Yards/GM: 214.9 (15th)

What is at Stake?

Despite gaining confidence and believing that you’re the best team in the NFL, this game actually has major playoff implications. Not in the sense of each teams respective chances of making the playoffs, but seeding. The Patriots are looking to keep pace with the San Diego Chargers and Bengals for the No. 2 overall seed, with an 8-3 record. The Saints are looking to stay one game ahead of the up-start Vikings for home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. Considering that there is a number of tough, dangerous teams in each league, having home-field advantage will be key to reaching the Super Bowl.

Key Matchup:

The Saints three-headed monster at running back versus the Patriots 20th ranked rush defense. Just kidding, the clear matchup is how each team can deal with the gun slingers. Statistically, the saints have the better defense but how wants to face Brady on turf?

The Skinny:

The New England Patriots are simply too good and efficient on offense and will keep the ball away from the dangerous Saints. Don’t be surprised if the Patriots start the game trying to pound the ball and control the clock. Until the Saints prove that they can win the big games and put up these gouty numbers on offense against an elite team, my money is on the Pats

Prediction: New England 28, New Orleans 24.

Chargers (6-3):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 26.3 (6th)
Total Yards/GM: 334.9 (18th)
Rush Yards/GM: 75.1 (31st)
Pass Yards/GM: 259.8 (7th)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 22.4 (20th)
Total Yards/GM: 326/7 (14th)
Rush Yards/GM: 118.9 (23rd)
Pass Yards/GM: 207.8 (11th)

Broncos (6-3):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 18.6 (24th)
Total Yards/GM: 328.8 (22nd)
Rush Yards/GM: 112.1 (16th)
Pass Yards/GM: 216.7 (18th)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 16.8 (4th)
Total Yards/GM: 292.2 (6th)
Rush Yards/GM: 105.6 (11th)
Pass Yards/GM: 186.7 (8th)

What is at Stake?

When these two division rivals collide on Sunday, first place in the sputtering AFC West will be at stake. Over the past few weeks, these two teams have been going in opposite directions. Denver has been exposed against better teams, and even losing at Washington in week 10. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Chargers have climbed out of the seller after winning four consecutive games. However, the game is more important for the San Diego Chargers because the Broncos hold a slip advantage in the divisional record tie-breaker category of 3-1 to 3-2.

Key Matchup:

The Chargers rush defense versus the Broncos running attach. Even if Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton (ankle, questionable) is able to play on Sunday, the Broncos should employ a heavy rushing attack. The Chargers have become a one dimensional offensive team (passing) and the Denver Broncos cannot afford to allow Rivers to put a lot of points on the board.

The Skinny:

Even if Orton is able to play on Sunday, the Broncos have been exposed as an average NFL team. The Chargers are clearly a better team and should win this game going away, and subsequently claiming first place in the AFC West.

Prediction: San Diego 24, Denver 21

Maurice Jones-Drew: In his teams 24-22 victory over the New York Jets, Jones-Drew rushed for 123 yards and a score on 24 carries. Jones-Drew, who became the first player to rush for 100 or more yards against the Jets this season, now has 530 yards rushing and seven TDs in his past four games. The undersized RB continues to prove that he can handle the load over an entire NFL season.

Chris Johnson: Johnson, who seems to be on top of this list nearly every week, continued his stellar play on Sunday. The speed RB rushed for 32 yards and two touchdowns. However, most amazing of all, is that Johnson caught nine passes for 100 more yards as he once again displayed his evolving game.

Reggie Wayne: In a shocking game that I cannot seem to get out of my mind, Wayne finished with 10 catches for 126 yards and two TDs. In addition to his outstanding performance, the consistent WR also delivered the final blow in the Indianapolis Colts stunning 35-34 victory over the Patriots with a 1-yard TD catch with 13 seconds left.

Sidney Rice: Perhaps the individual that is benefiting over the Brett Farve signing the most is Rice. In Minnesota’s 27-10 victory over the Lions, Rice set a career-high with 201 receiving yards on only seven catches. Rice caught three passes of 40-plus yards, which included a 56-yarder early in the fourth quarter that put the team in position to go up by two touchdowns

Donovan McNabb: In the team’s second consecutive bad performance against AFC West foes, McNabb completed 35 of 55 passes for 450 yards and two TDs in a 31-23 loss to the San Diego Chargers. The 450 yard performance was the second best of his career and only the fourth 400-yard passing performance by an Eagle since the 70’s.

Charles Woodson: The Packers defense had a stellar game against a good Dallas Cowboys team. Perhaps most impressive of all was Packers CB Charles Woodson. Woodson, who is a former Heisman Trophy winner, had two forced fumbles, one interception, one sack and nine tackles in Green Bay’s 17-7 victory.

The Bengals’ defense: The Cincinnati Bengals won a very tough road game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In the victory 18-12