Atlanta Falcons 07/26/2007 12:55 PMNFL.com wire reports QB Michael Vick was due in federal court to start a legal process that jeopardizes not only his career, but also his freedom. The Atlanta Falcons quarterback was expected to appear at a bond hearing and enter a plea on dogfighting conspiracy charges. Vick is accused with three others of conspiracy involving competitive dogfighting, procuring and training pit bulls for fighting, and conducting the enterprise across state lines. Federal prosecutors allege the operation -- known as Bad Newz Kennels -- operated on Vick's property in rural Surry County.Read more
Cincinnati Bengals 07/26/2007 12:52 PMThe Dayton Daily News reports Cincinnati Bengals LB Odell Thurman won't be playing football in the NFL this year. His petition for reinstatement has been denied. The Bengals were notified by the league office on Thursday morning that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell had ruled against Thurman. In a news release issued at 10:51 a.m., the Bengals said Goodell's decision offers Thurman the opportunity to reapply for reinstatement following the 2007 season. Thurman is suspended without pay. He was scheduled to make a base salary of $435,000 if he had played this season.Read more
Carolina Panthers 07/26/2007 10:05 AMThe Charlotte Observer reports the Carolina Panthers could have their two second-round picks under contract today, but first-round choice LB Jon Beason, like many first-rounders around the league, isn't close to a deal. According to league sources, C Ryan Kalil was close to an agreement late Wednesday night and significant progress has been made on a deal for WR Dwayne Jarrett, the Panthers' other second-round pick.Read more
Green Bay Packers 07/26/2007 10:02 AMThe Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports the Green Bay Packers signed RB Brandon Jackson on Wednesday and expect little trouble reaching agreement with their last two unsigned draft choices. Jackson, a second-round pick, signed a four-year deal worth about $2.815 million. The deal contained a signing bonus of $1.15 million plus escalators in the final year that will compensate Jackson if he hits it big.Read more
