Parcells Update

Paul Tagliabue, the commissioner of the National Football League, has called the Patriots and the Jets to nudge them into talking about a deal to solve the vexing problem regarding Bill Parcells. If both teams cannot agree today to an arrangement that brings Parcells to the Jets as coach this season, then Tagliabue will conduct a formal hearing with the clubs on Monday to resolve at least the issue over whether the coach can act as their “consultant” this year.

Free-agent quarterback Jeff George is reportedly close to reaching an agreement to join the Oakland Raiders. George is said to be seeking a deal worth $4.5 million a year and has narrowed his choices to Kansas City and Oakland.

Meanwhile, Raiders coach Joe Bugel has nearly filled out his staff after hiring Ray Perkins away from the New England Patriots to be the Raiders’ offensive coordinator. Also joining Bugel’s staff are Keith Rowen, as assistant head coach-offense, and Dave Adolph, as linebackers coach.