Patriots signed LB Eric Alexander to a one-year contract extension for $700,000 and a $125,000 signing bonus.
It's a reward for the core special teamer's solid play. The extension could push to $1.5 million, but Alexander would have to earn more defensive playing time to earn the incentives.
Raiders placed OLB Ricky Brown (ankle) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Brown may have required surgery. He hadn't played in several weeks, although the extent of his injury was never clear. Jon Alston will finish out 2009 as the Raiders' starting strong-side linebacker. Brown will be only 26 next season and figures to re-sign with Oakland to compete for a starting role.
Colts placed OL Dan Federkeil (concussion) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Federkeil was nothing more than a deep reserve. He'll be a restricted free agent after the season.
Jaguars signed OL Paul McQuistan.
The former Raiders' bust is getting another shot after being waived on Nov. 9. He'll give the Jags some depth at both guard and tackle.
Jaguars released S Brian Russell.
Ruseell, 31, isn't even needed in the secondary with Rashean Mathis (groin) out.
Bills signed DB Cary Harris off their practice squad.
Harris was a sixth-round pick out of USC in April. He's too slow to play corner for most teams, but Buffalo's Tampa 2 scheme suits his skills as a sure tackler. He may also see some action at free safety on the practice field.
Bills placed OLB Keith Ellison (quadriceps) on injured reserve, ending his season.
Ellison presumably tore his quads when he went down early this month. 26 in February, Ellison is eligible for free agency in the offseason. He was averaging an outstanding 8.5 tackles per game before the injury, but would be a backup/nickel linebacker on a good team. Ellison doesn't play the run well.
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