Howard trade talk

Gary Wichard, the agent for Saints defensive end Darren Howard, said he has not talked to the Cowboys in a couple of days.

Wichard, reached by phone Tuesday night, declined further comment about a prospective trade for Howard.

The former Kansas State star is seeking a deal similar to the six-year, $33 million contract -- including up to $17 million in signing and option bonuses -- that Grant Wistrom got from the Seahawks last year.

The Cowboys also must work out trade arrangements with the Saints, who are seeking at least a second-round pick for Howard.

According to a source, the Cowboys have received a proposal from Wichard, who had 11 sacks in 13 games last year. The source said the Cowboys remain interested in Howard.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and vice president Stephen Jones spent Tuesday in Surprise, Ariz., meeting with Rangers owner Tom Hicks.

-- Clarence E. Hill Jr.