Cowboys move on from OC Linehan

Scott Linehan is out as offensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys, less than a week after coach Jason Garrett sent mixed messages about the future for the oft-criticized assistant.

Garrett, in a statement released by the team late Friday, described the move as a mutual decision after he and Linehan had some open and positive discussions this week. Linehan, who just completed his fifth season in Dallas, had one more season left on his contract.

■ Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and Broncos linebacker Von Miller are among five finalists for the NFL Players Association’s Alan Page Community Award. Bengals defensive tackle Geno Atkins, Jets left tackle Kelvin Beachum and Rams left tackle Andrew Whitworth are also finalists for the award, which recognizes players for exceptional community service in their team cities and hometowns. The winner will be announced Jan. 31 at the NFLPA’s Super Bowl news conference in Atlanta and will get a $100,000 donation.

■ New Browns coach Freddie Kitchens added seven assistants to his staff, including Tosh Lupoi, Alabama’s defensive coordinator last season. Lupoi will coach Cleveland’s defensive line. He spent five seasons with the Crimson Tide.

■ Nate Kaczor was hired by the Redskins as special teams coordinator to replace Ben Kotwica, who joined the Falcons this month after five years in Washington.