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Bears LB Briggs to 49ers?

For the 49ers the rumored interest in Bears Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs persists. Reports out of Chicago said the 49ers tried to trade for Briggs before the trade deadline, which 49ers coach Mike Nolan would neither confirm nor deny. -- SF Chronicle

Titans Haynesworth insists on long-term deal
Albert Haynesworth doesn't know when the Titans can designate him a franchise player. But he does know if they do so and then show no intention of wanting him beyond 2008, he'll be upset. "I'd be disappointed because that would mean they don't really want me here long term," Haynesworth said Thursday. "If they franchise me, I feel like they don't really want me here long term, then I'll prepare myself to play like that." The All-Pro defensive tackle didn't sound like he was delivering a threat. He was saying, rather, that in such a scenario he'd prepare for 2008 expecting it to be his last season in Tennessee. If the Titans tag Haynesworth and assure him they intend to continue work toward a new contract, it's a different matter. "That would be great, that's what happened to (Colts defensive end) Dwight Freeney last year and he got a deal worked out," he said. "I hope that happens, if that's the case, if they want to do it that way. "But if they franchise me just to keep me here one more year, I'd be disappointed with that. I'd just have to prepare myself to be able to hit the market next year." Without a new contract Haynesworth would become a free agent on Feb. 29, But with the franchise player tag the Titans can assure themselves of one more year from him. -- Tennessean

Broncos working on trade for DT Rogers?

The Broncos should pay attention to reports that Detroit will either trade or release defensive tackle Shaun Rogers. The Broncos have been enamored of Rogers. A potential stumbling block is Denver wanting to hold onto its high draft picks. Denver has dealt well with his agents, so it wouldn't be a surprise if they try to work a deal for Rogers. -- Denver Post

Raiders interested in Bears WR Berrian

The Raiders staff, which is coaching the North team at the Senior Bowl, definitely has a strong interest in Bernard Berrian. But the Raiders figure the Bears will slap the franchise tag on the receiver. -- Chicago Tribune

Eagles likely to dump DE Kearse?

There is no question that Trent Cole will be the starting right defensive end again, but there is a question as to who will line up on the opposite side for the Eagles. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said the team needed more consistency at left defensive end, where Jevon Kearse and Juqua Thomas played last season. Kearse is likely to be released. Thomas, who had one sack in the final eight games after taking over for Kearse, could return to a reserve role. Cole said it would be good for the defense if the Eagles signed a top-of-the-line free agent, but he also endorsed Thomas as a starter. "You've got Juqua Thomas, and he's been producing every year," Cole said. "I think if you give him a fresh start and don't have him on special teams, I think he'll do a great, great job." -- Philadelphia Inquirer

Lions WR Williams to 49ers

Other news includes the rumor that Lions wide receiver Roy Williams is on the trading block, and one report said Detroit would look for a second-round pick in return. Williams played for two seasons under former Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz, who's now with the 49ers, so would the 49ers look to make a deal for Williams? It's unlikely, particularly at that price. Williams caught 63 passes for 836 yards and five touchdowns this year. But at 6-5, 212 pounds, he's not your typical speedy Martz receiver, and he also has been known to speak his mind. -- SF Chronicle

LB Al Wilson cleared for return to NFL

The Al Wilson watch should heat up after the Super Bowl. After the Broncos' former middle linebacker and defensive captain was cleared to return to the NFL last month, his Denver-based agent Peter Schaffer received several calls about Wilson's availability. Wilson is working out and is expected to try to decide on his future in February before the free-agency period begins Feb. 29. Because Wilson was cut by Denver last April, he is free to sign with any team. -- Denver Post

Cowboys Julius Jones won't be back!

One Cowboys player who definitely won't be back is running back Julius Jones. Jones is an unrestricted free agent and intends to test the market. It's clear the Cowboys intend to make Marion Barber the starter next season. They'll look for someone to complement him in either free agency or the draft. Jones rushed for a career-low 588 yards this season and averaged only 3.6 yards per carry as Barber became the Cowboys' go-to running back. -- Philadelphia Daily News

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