Broncos release star linebacker
The Denver Broncos released five-time Pro Bowl linebacker Al Wilson Friday because of a combination of injury and salary cap concerns. Wilson, who injured his neck against Seattle on Dec. 3, was scheduled to make $5.2 million in base salary this season.
Wilson has been the defensive captain for the last six seasons. He led the team in tackles last season with 113.
He was plagued by injuries in the second half of 2006. Wilson hurt his neck running into teammate Gerard Warren on a tackle against the Seahawks and had to be carted off the field as the crowd gave him an ovation and chanted his name.
“If I can get medically cleared, hey, I’m going to go out and play,” Wilson said. “I feel like I still can play. It’s not about the money. I’ll only get out there and play if I’m healthy.”
Peter Schaffer, Wilson’s agent, wouldn’t discuss the exact nature of Wilson’s neck injury.
Pacman will appeal
Tennessee Titans cornerback Adam “Pacman” Jones said he will appeal his season-long suspension and thinks NFL commissioner Roger Goodell made him the league’s “poster boy” for disciplining players.
Jones was in Tunica, Miss., and he talked to an ESPN reporter while at “Friday Night Fights” about being suspended – without pay – for the 2007 season. His case will be reviewed after the Titans’ 10th game, leaving the chance for a return.
“I think it was a little bit harsh,” Jones said. “I expected the suspension, but for a whole year for a guy that hadn’t been charged with nothing? I really didn’t agree with it. But for the most part, I’m taking it like a man. I’m going to appeal it. We’ll see what the future brings.”
Raiders sign OL Carlisle
Oakland agreed to a contract with former Broncos offensive lineman Cooper Carlisle. Carlisle started every game the past two seasons for the Broncos and has played 95 games since joining Denver as a fourth-round pick out of Florida in 2000.
Giants sign Bell, Stone
The New York Giants signed defensive tackle Marcus Bell and defensive back Michael Stone.
A fourth-round draft choice by Arizona, Bell spent three years with the Cardinals and the last three with Detroit.
Stone spent his first four seasons with the Cardinals and then played a year with New England and last season with Houston.
Arizona signs four
The Arizona Cardinals signed three free agents and re-signed center Nick Leckey.
Cornerback Ralph Brown and defensive ends Rodney Bailey and Joe Tafoya signed one-year contracts. Leckey, a restricted free agent, signed his one-year qualifying offer.
Brown played in all 16 games, four as a starter, for the Cleveland Browns last season. Bailey appeared in 12 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers last season. Tafoya played in 13 games for Seattle last season.