NFL: Hernandez out
Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez is out indefinitely after injuring his right ankle in Sunday’s loss to the Cardinals. According to reports, X-rays showed no broken bones.
Redskins two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Brian Orakpo (shoulder) and defensive end Adam Carriker (knee) are out for the season with injuries. … Browns tight end Alex Smith was briefly hospitalized with a concussion following Sunday’s loss in Cincinnati. Rookie defensive tackle Billy Winn also suffered a concussion, and defensive tackle Juqua Parker sprained his foot. … Rams offensive tackle Rodger Saffold will be out at least a month because of a right knee injury. Wayne Hunter, acquired late in the preseason from the Jets, is the likely starter this week at Chicago.
The NFL presented Jonathan Vilma and his attorney with a sworn statement from former Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams saying the linebacker placed a $10,000 bounty on Brett Favre. Vilma met with commissioner Roger Goodell yesterday in New York about his suspension, which has been temporarily lifted. Vilma tweeted last night that Williams was “bullied to sign the affidavit,” saying Williams signed it on Friday.
Racing: Dutrow appeals ban
Kentucky Derby-winning thoroughbred trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. has asked New York’s top court to overturn his 10-year ban by the state Racing and Wagering Board, saying it raises civil rights issues.
In requesting the Court of Appeals to hear Dutrow’s case, attorney Michael Koenig said it should decide whether the appearance of bias by racing board Chairman John Sabini cost the trainer his right to a fair proceeding over drug violations. In court papers, they said Sabini had a conflicting role as an officer of the Association of Racing Commissioners International, which advocated revoking Dutrow’s license.
HOOPS: Ex-Knick takes Heat
The Heat signed Josh Harrellson, the 6-foot-10, 275-pound center who played 37 games as a rookie for the Knicks last season. He averaged 4.4 points and 3.9 rebounds.
N.C. State freshman Rodney Purvis was cleared by the NCAA, six weeks after the standout shooting guard wasn’t allowed to accompany the Wolfpack on an exhibition trip, coach Mark Gottfried said. — Zach Braziller