Philadelphia – Pro Bowl running back Brian Westbrook signed a five-year contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Westbrook had been seeking a long-term deal since the end of last season. He held out the first week of training camp and ended talks in September after saying he was “disrespected” by the team’s offer.
The deal reportedly is worth almost $25 million and includes bonuses of $9 million to $10 million.
“I’m glad the Eagles have recognized my talents and dedication to this team,” Westbrook said. “Philadelphia is a great football city and a great place to play, and we have had a winning tradition on this team that I want to continue to be a part of.”
Westbrook, who has complained about not getting enough carries this season, had rushed for 304 yards and one touchdown going into Sunday night’s game at Washington. He also had 39 catches for 423 yards and four touchdowns.
INJURIES
Backup backs get a chance to show off
Running-back depth was tested Sunday, a day when Jacksonville’s Fred Taylor and Chicago’s Thomas Jones were among the players forced to leave games because of injuries.
Taylor left the Jaguars’ victory over Houston after injuring his right ankle for the second time in less than a month. Jones was knocked out of Chicago’s game against New Orleans in the first half with bruised ribs.
Taylor sprained his ankle on a 5-yard run early in the third quarter. He tried to walk off the field but fell to the ground in pain. He eventually left and was replaced by Greg Jones, who scored the go-ahead touchdown.
Already without Jerome Bettis (thigh), the Steelers lost Willie Parker, who had topped 100 yards in three of their first seven games, in the third quarter of their victory at Green Bay with an injured left ankle. But Duce Staley, who had his first carries since the AFC championship game in January, ran for 76 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.
Also, Steelers linebacker James Farrior left in the third quarter after injuring his left knee.
The Vikings needed a big game from Michael Bennett after Mewelde Moore left against the Detroit Lions in the fourth quarter with a sprained right wrist. Moore was hurt in the first quarter but played until taking himself out to avoid a late-game fumble.
Thomas Jones gained 40 yards on 11 carries before leaving at Baton Rouge, La., but Adrian Peterson and Cedric Benson combined for 137 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries.
Bears coach Lovie Smith said Jones did not break anything but could not say how long the running back would be out.
The Lions couldn’t overcome the loss of leading rusher Kevin Jones, held to 15 yards on seven carries before leaving in the second quarter with an injured right shoulder.
Houston’s injury problems were worse. Running back Domanick Davis and kick returner Jerome Mathis were inactive, then starting center Drew Hodgdon and backup Todd Washington were hurt Sunday.
Kansas City’s Priest Holmes, one of the league’s top backs, was out because of a mild concussion, but backup Larry Johnson scored the game-winning touchdown against Oakland. Offensive tackle Willie Roaf (hamstring) and cornerback Patrick Surtain (knee) also were inactive for the Chiefs.
Jets receiver Wayne Chrebet’s career again could be in jeopardy after he suffered at least the ninth concussion of his college and pro careers when his head hit the ground after a late reception in New York’s home loss to San Diego.
The Jets had another injury when tight end Chris Baker broke his left ankle.
Coach Herman Edwards said, “He’s done.”
In Cleveland, Browns guard Cosey Coleman will undergo an MRI today for a sprained right knee.
At Tempe, Ariz., Pro Bowl defensive end and former Bronco Bertrand Berry left the field with an apparent shoulder injury with 9:44 to play.
In Baltimore, Ravens defensive back Dale Carter left with an injured hamstring.
SAINTS
Owner Benson keeps promise, stays home
Saints owner Tom Benson was a no-show for New Orleans’ game against Chicago in Baton Rouge, La., staying true to his earlier promise never to return to the city where last week he swatted at a TV news camera and argued with a heckling fan.
However, Benson’s granddaughter, Rita Benson LeBlanc, did come to the game. LeBlanc, who carries the title owner/executive, is Benson’s heir apparent.
