Culpepper restructures deal with Vikings, gets more money

Daunte Culpepper and the Minnesota Vikings reached an agreement on Sunday to restructure the quarterback’s contract, giving the three-time Pro Bowl selection an unspecified raise.

Rob Brzezinski, the team’s vice president for football operations, said the deal – given the blessing of new owner Zygi Wilf – has been in the works since January.

Brzezinski didn’t divulge financial terms, other than to confirm that Culpepper was getting an increase from the framework of the 10-year, $102 million extension he signed in May 2003. Culpepper’s agent, Mason Ashe, also declined to specify.

Owens returns to practice

Wide receiver Terrell Owens returned to practice with Philadelphia after missing the last two days with inflammation in his left groin.

Owens participated in both the morning and afternoon sessions. After wearing full pads for the morning practice, players wore shells and shorts during a brief afternoon workout.

Panthers tight end Jones retires

Tight end Freddie Jones retired, ending his eight-year career just four months after signing a free agent contract with Carolina.

Jones had 404 receptions over five seasons in San Diego and three in Arizona.