Gay, Hamilton miss practice, but Saints in good shape

Gay, Hamilton miss practice, but Saints in good shape: "The Saints' final practice on the campus of the University of Miami lasted just under two hours and was their shortest workout of the week."

Belichick to play bigger role in New England's defense

Belichick to play bigger role in New England's defense: "New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has decided not to hire a defensive coordinator and plans to take a larger role overseeing the unit."

Rice and Smith are frontrunners for 2010 Hall of Fame

Rice and Smith are frontrunners for 2010 Hall of Fame: "Emmitt Smith and Jerry Rice are virtual shoo-ins for election into the Pro Football Hall of Fame."

Bears promote Marinelli to defensive coordinator

Bears promote Marinelli to defensive coordinator: "Unable to find outside help, the Chicago Bears have promoted
Rod Marinelli to defensive coordinator while rounding out their coaching
staff."

Caldwell says injured DE Freeney is still improving

Caldwell says injured DE Freeney is still improving: "Indianapolis coach Jim Caldwell sounded
optimistic Friday that defensive end Dwight Freeney could play against the New
Orleans Saints in Sunday's Super Bowl."

Nothing out of the norm happening with CBA negotiations

Nothing out of the norm happening with CBA negotiations: "We learned one thing from Thursday's back-and-forth between the NFL and the players union: The sides aren't even close to a deal. But there's still plenty of time to avoid a lockout in 2011."

So long, San Diego: Tomlinson believes Chargers will release him

So long, San Diego: Tomlinson believes Chargers will release him: "LaDainian Tomlinson told <i>The San Diego Union-Tribune</i> on Thursday what most people have speculated for months: He will not be a San Diego Charger next season."