New England Patriots offensive lineman Nick Kaczur is close to returning the field following back surgery.

Buffalo Bills linebacker Kawika Mitchell was released with an injury settlement.

As Mark Sanchez's favorite target, New York Jets tight end Dustin Keller's confidence is at a high level, writes Jenny Vrentas of The Star-Ledger.

Miami Dolphins defensive lineman Randy Starks is back to his defensive end spot.

Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Jared Gaither is visiting with a back specialist.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is dangling a bye week carrot in front of the players.

Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis is drawing some lofty comparisons, writes Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.

The Cincinnati Bengals defense has improved the last two weeks.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning has a good chance of avoiding the struggles that plague older quarterbacks, writes Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star.

If it helps them intimidate an opponent, members of the Tennessee Titans defense don't mind an occasional fine, writes Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.

Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Justin Durant will miss tomorrow's game with a sprained ankle.

Houston Texans left tackle Rashad Butler is relieved to have his first NFL start in his rear-view mirror.

Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Shaun Smith was fined $10,000 for grabbing an opponent's genitals during last Sunday's game.

Denver Broncos running back Laurence Maroney will get the bulk of the carries against the Titans, writes Jeff Legwold of the Denver Post.

In addition to improving their kick and punt coverage units, the San Diego Chargers seek improvement in their own return games, as well.

The Oakland Raiders passing game is improving, writes Steve Corkran of the Oakland Tribune.

San Francisco 49ers safety Michael Lewis has asked for his release.

Seattle Seahawks first-round left tackle Russell Okung is expected to make his NFL debut on Sunday.

Arizona Cardinals third-round wide receiver Andre Roberts is looking for something good to happen this week, writes Kent Somers of The Arizona Republic.

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson and safety O.J. Atogwe will be game-time decisions on Sunday.

Green Bay Packers tight end coach Ben McAdoo has no doubts about Jermichael Finley's blocking ability.

Finley says Detroit Lions safety Louis Delmas will pay for his "cheap shot" from last season.

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Ray Edwards is racking up the fines this season.

The Chicago Bears have received contributions this season from their more unheralded players, writes Neil Hayes of the Chicago Sun-Times.

With Keith Bulluck dealing with a turf toe injury, New York Giants linebacker Clint Sintim could start on Sunday night against the Bears.

If Nick Cole's keeps him out on Sunday, Max Jean-Gilles would start at right guard for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan admitted the team is less than honest when issuing its injury reports.

The Dallas Cowboys' 2010 draft class is having an early impact, writes Gerry Fraley of the Dallas Morning News.

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Lance Moore has re-emerged as a weapon in the offense and return game.

Carolina Panthers defensive ends Tyler Brayton and Greg Hardy returned to practice on Friday.

Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Curtis Lofton will be matched up with 49ers running back Frank Gore on Sunday.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris gave his players the weekend off.

Today's NFL birthdays: Falcons practice squad tight end Robbie Agnone (25), Bears practice squad offensive tackle Levi Horn (24), Packers running back Brandon Jackson (25), Chiefs cornerback Maurice Leggett (24), Chargers wide receiver Buster Davis (25), free agent kicker Shane Andrus (30), safety Courtney Bryan (26), defensive end Corey Smith (31), defensive tackle Cordarrow Thompson (23), former NFL defensive tackle John Thornton (34).