RB Davis to retire a Panther

The Carolina Panthers are going to sign RB Stephen Davis this week, so he can retire with the organization according to thebuzz.com. This is a classy move by the Carolina organization. Davis, who is a three-time Pro Bowler, played 11 seasons for three different teams (Washington, Carolina and St. Louis) compiling 8,052 yards and 65 touchdowns.

Bell expected to test open market

Tatum Bell is expected to test the free agent market when it opens on Feb.29, according to freep.com The Detroit Lions organization has been trying to convince Bell to return to the fold by telling him they are implementing more of a run based offense in 2008. Sounds like their words are hitting deaf ears, as Bell who collected splinters on the bench for the final 11 games last year is going to test the market. He has averaged 4.8 yards per carry during his career, but is known as a player who is at his best with a 15 carry limit. The Tennessee Titans are rumored to be interested in his services as a homerun hitter to compliment LenDale White.

McKinnie punishment undetermined

Minnesota Vikings HC Brad Childress said he hasn't determined whether he will punish LT Bryant McKinnie for his confrontation at a Miami nightclub, according to nj.com. Childress, who was at the scouting combine, is still trying to gather all of the information. "I don't have all the information because I've been in meetings and workouts all weekend, but I have gotten a chance to speak with his family," Childress said. He declined to elaborate on his discussion with McKinnie's family. McKinnie was charged with a felony (aggravated battery) along with lesser charges including disorderly conduct and resisting arrest without violence. So if his lawyer is unable to plea down the charges, McKinnie almost certainly will face the wrath of Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Jets seek third rounder for Vilma

The New York Jets are seeking a third round pick for the rights to LB Jonathan Vilma, according to nj.com. The organization declined to comment on a report in the Boston Globe that they gave the linebacker permission to work a trade with any team except the New England Patriots. The two most likely destinations for Vilma: Jacksonville and New Orleans, both of which have needs at the position, along with the cap dollars to bring him aboard.

Owens will receive roster bonus

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said on Tuesday that he will pay wide receiver Terrell Owens the $3 million roster bonus he is due on June 3. "Yes, we are going to have Terrell back,' Jones tells the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Owens will be entering the final year of a three-year, $25 million deal. This news comes as no surprise. There were rumors at this time last year that the Cowboys might release Owens prior to the 2007 season, but his huge year leaves this next round in little doubt.

Neal ready to go

Chargers fullback Lorenzo Neal practiced fully on Wednesday. He underwent surgery on December 10 to have a plate placed in his fractured right fibula. "I'm ready to play," Neal tells the San Diego Union-Tribune. "I'm excited. We've got a chance to go hunting. There's only four teams left. There's only two games. I don't care if you have to carry me off the field. I want to play football." Even if you despise the Chargers, you have to respect a throwback tough guy like Neal. The dude busted his leg barely more than a month ago.

LT feeling much better

Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson didn't practice on Wednesday, but he is feeling better and will test his hyperextended left knee on Thursday. "I'll be ready to go," he tells the San Diego Union-Tribune. "I'll feel just fine by game time, and so I expect to be close to 100 percent." We anticipate a heavy workload for LT and Michael Turner on Sunday, as the Chargers will likely want to control the clock against the favored Patriots.

Tucker promoted

The Browns promoted defensive backs coach Mel Tucker to defensive coordinator to replace Todd Graham, who was fired January 11. "We're excited to have Mel as our defensive coordinator," head coach Romeo Crennel said in a statement released by the team. "He has a football plan, life plan, coaches the fundamentals and relates well with the players. I believe he'll be successful in this new role." Sources indicate that Grantham had lost the confidence of his players and fellow coaches, many of whom voiced concerns to Crennel following the season. While the Browns still ranked near the bottom of the league statistically, they did show improvement over the second half of the season and sport some talented young players to be developed.

Latsko signed

The Steelers signed fullback Billy Latsko to their future list Monday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Latsko spent last season with the Panthers and would have to contend with Cary Davis for playing time if regular fullback Dan Kreider successfully returns from his knee injury.

Garrett has second meeting

Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett met with Ravens officials Tuesday morning, his second interview with the team. He is considered the leading candidate for the post vacated when Brian Billick was fired following the season. Garrett is also slated for a second interview with the Falcons on Tuesday, but the Ravens may not let him leave town until they have his signature on a contract.