VIKINGS SIGN LB KENDRICKS TO EXTENSION
MINNEAPOLIS» Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks became the latest recipient of a new multiyear deal, when he re-upped with the club Monday.
After being drafted in the second round out of UCLA in 2015, Kendricks has led the Vikings in total tackles in each of his first three seasons.
The only other player in franchise history who’s accomplished that feat was Rip Hawkins, who did so over his first four years from 1961-64.
NFL prohibits use of certain helmets.
The NFL for the first time is prohibiting certain helmets from being worn by players. In notifying the 32 teams Monday, the league has sought to have players stop using 10 helmet varieties. Some, particularly those manufactured by Rawlings, no longer are being made and don’t have support from the company. Others were found to be inferior to many of the 34 helmets the NFL and the players’ union examined.
Bears sign WR Fowler.
» The Chicago LAKE FOREST, ILL. Bears have signed receiver Bennie Fowler to a one-year contract. Fowler caught 56 passes for 698 yards and five touchdowns in three seasons with the Broncos. He had 350 yards and three TDs last year.
Steelers Harrison retires again.
PITTSBURH» James Harrison is taking another shot at retirement, and this time it’s likely to stick for the longtime Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker.
The five-time Pro Bowler, two-time all-pro and 2008 NFL defensive player of the year announced on Instagram early Monday he is stepping away from the game after a 15-year career.
Redskins bolster O-line.
VA.» The Washington ASHBURN, Redskins have shored up their offensive line by re-signing swing tackle Ty Nsekhe and interior lineman Tony Bergstrom and exercising the fifth-year option on starting right guard Brandon Scherff’s contract.
DE Irving returns to Cowboys.
TEXAS» Defensive FRISCO, end David Irving is returning to the Dallas Cowboys after signing a $2.9 million, one-year offer as a restricted free agent.
Jaguars’ Posluszny retires.
JACKSONVILLE, FLA .
Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Paul Posluszny formally retired after 11 NFL seasons. He spent four in Buffalo and the last seven in Jacksonville.