Rice Set To Return

Jerry Rice received medical clearance to resume practice without restrictions and, barring a setback to his surgically repaired knee, likely will play for San Francisco against Denver on Monday night.

Rice, sidelined since tearing two ligaments and damaging cartilage in his left knee during the season opener at Tampa Bay on Aug. 31, began practicing on a limited basis last week.

Tameeka Messier of Maynard, Mass., who was injured last month at a nightclub where two New England Patriots jumped off the stage into the crowd, has filed suit in Boston against the football players, the nightclub and members of the band that was playing.

Named in the suit were quarterback Drew Bledsoe, offensive guard Max Lane, the Paradise nightclub and three members of the band Everclear - Art Alexakis, Craig Montoya and Greg Eklund.

The NFL wants to make sure game officials don’t have to confront angry club executives on the field.

Acting on a complaint from the Washington Redskins, NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue has told front-office personnel to leave the arguing to players and coaches.

NFL officials said Tagliabue’s memo was prompted by the sideline shouting of Dallas owner Jerry Jones during the Cowboys’ 17-14 victory over Washington on Nov. 16.

The ex-girlfriend of Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Dan “Big Daddy” Wilkinson accused him in court of using marijuana on game days, but later backed off of the statement.

Shawnda LaMarr made the accusation during a court hearing in Columbus, where she and Wilkinson are fighting over visitation rights for their 21-month-old son, Daniel II.

Under cross-examination from Wilkinson’s attorney, Laurence Sturtz, LaMarr acknowledged she did not have first-hand knowledge of any drug use on game days.

Third-year pro Craig Whelihan remains the San Diego Chargers’ starting quarterback - at least until his next turnover.

After two days of deliberations, coach Kevin Gilbride decided to stay with Whelihan, who has thrown nine interceptions in five winless starts. Up next is Kansas City (11-3), which is gunning for AFC home-field playoff advantage.

Brent Jones, a four-time Pro Bowl tight end in 12 years with the San Francisco 49ers, plans to retire at the end of this season.