Newsmakers

Charged Miami Dolphins defensive end Phillip Merling has been formally charged with felony battery against his pregnant girlfriend. The Broward (Fla.) State Attorney’s Office filed the charge Friday. If convicted, the 25-year-old could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The NFL also could punish Merling for violating the league’s personal-conduct policy.

Retiring Wide receiver Eddie Kennison has signed a contract with Kansas City so he can retire as a member of the Chiefs. Kennison played in 91 games for Kansas City, from 2001 through 2007. He ranks seventh in team history with 5,230 yards receiving and eighth with 321 receptions.

Suspended Pittsburgh defensive end Jabaal Sheard has been suspended indefinitely after being accused of throwing another man through the glass door of an art gallery. Police say Sheard was in a fight early Sunday and had to be pepper sprayed after he threw the man through the door of La Fond Galleries. Pitt spokesman E.J. Borghetti says Sheard has been suspended from team activities while the athletic department investigates.

Banned British shot putters Jamie Stevenson and Kieren Kelly have been banned for two years for violating anti-doping rules by refusing to take an out-of-competition test. The pair pleaded guilty to the charge of refusing to commit to sample collection and are banned until Feb. 7, 2012, under the World Anti-Doping Code.

Welcomed NASCAR driver Juan Pablo Montoya and his wife Connie have welcomed their third child. Montoya announced the arrival of daughter Manuela through Twitter. The Colombian said both mother and baby are doing great.

Skipping Figure skating champion Kim Yu-na will skip the upcoming Grand Prix series to focus on next year’s world championships. The 19-year-old South Korean won Olympic gold in Vancouver, but then failed to defend her title at the world championships soon after.