NFL: Gonzalez cashes in
Tony Gonzalez has agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Kansas City Chiefs that keeps him the highest-paid tight end in the NFL.
The eight-time Pro Bowler, just two touchdown catches short of the league record for his position, will receive about $17 million in guaranteed money, a person close to the negotiations told the Associated Press. The person requested anonymity because he was not authorized to disclose the information.
Gonzalez ranks first on Kansas City’s career receiving list, with 721 catches for 8,710 yards.
Raiders interview Ryan
Oakland Raiders defensive coordinator Rob Ryan interviewed for the team’s head coaching vacancy.
Ryan followed former New York Giants coach Jim Fassel and Southern California quarterbacks coach Steve Sarkisian to interview to replace the fired Art Shell.
“Oakland offensive coordinator John Shoop was hired to fill the same position on Butch Davis’ staff at North Carolina.
Gregoire bets on Hawks
Confident the Seahawks have hit their stride, Gov. Chris Gregoire has placed a wager on this Sunday’s playoff game against Chicago.
She bet Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich that the defending NFC champion Seahawks would beat the Bears at Soldier Field in the second round of the NFC playoffs.
At stake is smoked salmon and Washington’s world-renowned apples. Blagojevich countered with an offer of a Du Quoin state fair favorite, 17th Street barbecue, and Cozy Dogs, an Illinois tradition from Route 66.
Gators lose one, keep one
Florida Gators receiver Andre Caldwell said he intends to return for his senior season, following the advice of his brother, New England Patriots receiver Reche Caldwell.
All-America Gators safety Reggie Nelson chose to forgo his final year and enter the NFL draft.
Chargers discuss future
San Diego Chargers team president Dean Spanos sent a letter to Mayor Jim Wood saying the team would like to discuss the possibility of building a stadium in Oceanside, Calif., in northern San Diego County.
The Chargers also are discussing potential stadium sites with Chula Vista and National City, which are both sandwiched between downtown San Diego and the U.S.-Mexico border.
Around the league
Dallas Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens had surgery in Miami to repair a torn tendon in his right ring finger, two newspapers reported. … Detroit Lions receiver Roy Williams has been added to the 2007 NFC Pro Bowl squad, replacing Torry Holt of the St. Louis Rams. … Cleveland Browns offensive lineman Kelly Butler signed a two-year contract extension.