Cardinals sign FB Coleman to 1-year deal

Lions’ Patricia hits back over 1996 allegation

LOS ANGELES, May 10, (Agencies): The Arizona Cardinals announced the signing of former Atlanta Falcons fullback Derrick Coleman to a one-year contract on Thursday.

Financial terms were not disclosed. Arizona released running back Bronson Hill in a corresponding move.

Coleman is likely to take over as Arizona’s starting fullback, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Coleman, 27, is the NFL’s first legally deaf offensive player. He appeared in all 16 games for the Falcons last season, starting seven, though he only had two rushing attempts on the ground and two receptions.

Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia hit back Thursday following the emergence of a 1996 sexual assault case which was later dropped.

Patricia, who took over as Lions head coach in February after five years at the New England Patriots, told reporters he was “innocent then, and innocent now.”

“I’m here to defend my honour and clear my name,” Patricia read from a statement. “Twenty-two years ago I was falsely accused of some serious allegations. There are claims made about me that never happened.

“I find it incredibly unfair, disappointing, and frustrating that this story would resurface now with the only purpose being to damage my character and reputation. I firmly maintain my innocence, as I have always done. “Truth is on my side. I was innocent then and I’m innocent now.”

The Indianapolis Colts agreed to a deal with veteran offensive tackle Austin Howard, the team announced Wednesday.

Howard, 31, is expected to compete for the starting right tackle position.

Howard started all 16 games for the Baltimore Ravens last season after signing a three-year, $15.025 million contract. But the club parted ways with him in March, making him a free agent.

Free agent wide receiver Brandon Marshall is visiting the Seattle Seahawks. Marshall was checking out the Seahawks’ facility in Renton, Wash., this week.