NFL may sell package of Thursday night games to other networks

The NFL is talking to television networks about selling a package of Thursday night games.

League spokesman Brian McCarthy said Sunday that NFL Network would retain some games, “but we are in discussions to air a part of the package with existing and potentially new broadcast and cable partners.”

NFL Network began airing an eight-game package in 2006, which increased to 13 in 2012. The league could sell some of those games to an outside network, starting as soon as next season.

As NFL games keep drawing monster TV ratings, any additional games are hugely appealing to networks. The competition for a potential package is even greater with the recent addition of cable channel Fox Sports 1 and NBC’s attempts to grow NBCSN. Turner Sports also could be among the potential suitors.

Bears keep Tucker, let others go

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Mel Tucker will have two new coaches on his staff for next season.

Tucker is keeping his job after Chicago’s porous defense played a key role in its 8-8 season, but the Bears announced Sunday that defensive line coach Mike Phair and linebackers coach Tim Tibesar had been dismissed. Hit hard by injuries, Tucker’s unit allowed 29.9 points and 394.6 yards per game in his first year in the position.

The rest of the coaching staff is expected to return for next season.

Dolphins interview Dawson

Tennessee Titans vice president of player personnel Lake Dawson has become the fifth candidate to interview for the Miami Dolphins’ job of general manager.

Dawson, who interviewed Sunday, joined the Titans in 2007 as director of pro scouting, became vice president of football operations in 2011 and became vice president of player personnel in 2012. A graduate of Federal Way High School, the former NFL receiver has been mentioned as a general manager candidate around the NFL for the past two years.