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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

NFL notes: Patriots sign DE Shaun Ellis

Defensive end Shaun Ellis is switching sides in one of the NFL’s most intense rivalries.

The two-time Pro Bowl selection signed with the New England Patriots on Monday after 11 seasons with the New York Jets. Ellis, 34, had become the longest-tenured player on the Jets since he was taken 12th overall with a pick that New York obtained as compensation for letting coach Bill Belichick sign with the Patriots.

Jackson back in camp

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson has ended his holdout and reported to training camp.

Jackson joined his teammates at Lehigh University, though he didn’t practice in the morning. A two-time Pro Bowl pick, Jackson wants a new contract. He is slated to earn $565,000 this season, the final one of his four-year rookie deal.

Finnegan apologizes

Titans cornerback Cortland Finnegan has apologized to his bosses, teammates, fans and even the media for bolting training camp. He also says he left because he was upset over talks for an extension, not the personal issue he mentioned defending himself on Twitter.

Finnegan said after practice he understands he was a distraction to his team that wasn’t needed. He says he let emotions get the best of him when he wanted to meet with his wife and discuss contract talks that he hopes will allow him to retire with Tennessee.

Williams joins Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens have signed veteran running back Ricky Williams to replace Willis McGahee, who they let go days before training camp.

Williams agreed to a two-year deal, the team announced.

The former Heisman Trophy winner played last season with the Miami Dolphins and if everything goes well with his physical today, Williams will work in tandem with Ray Rice.

A former Pro Bowler, Williams rushed for 1,853 yards to lead the league in 2002.

Death settlement reached

A settlement has been reached in the final lawsuit stemming from the heat stroke death of Minnesota Vikings lineman Korey Stringer 10 years ago, his family announced Monday.

Terms of the settlement between Stringer’s widow, Kelci Stringer, and Chicago-based helmet and shoulder pads-maker Riddell Inc. were not disclosed, said James Gould, who was Korey Stringer’s agent and serves as a family spokesman.

Around the league

Pittsburgh receiver Hines Ward was taken off the physically unable to perform list after being cleared by doctors to join his teammates following offseason thumb surgery. … Arizona Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson has a torn right biceps tendon and will try to rehabilitate the injury to avoid surgery that would sideline him for a longer period. … New York Giants top draft pick Prince Amukamara broke his left foot in practice. He’s expected to have surgery and may be sidelined for up to two months. … Jacksonville head coach Jack Del Rio ended the hazing ritual this season, saying players need to have more respect for each other.