LAS VEGAS – The Oakland Raiders and the board overseeing the proposed NFL stadium in Las Vegas have high hopes for the project despite losing an instrumental supporter, but their plan is still missing hundreds of millions of dollars in financing.
Team leaders and the stadium authority board met publicly Thursday for the first time since casino magnate Sheldon Adelson withdrew a $650 million pledge for the project. Both sides plan to continue to work on a lease agreement, but the team didn't give a definitive answer for the major financial gap.
"The organization remains fully committed to this project," Raiders president Marc Badain told the stadium authority board members. "We are not deterred. Financing will not be an issue."
Badain told the board the team is in discussions with "multiple financial institutions," but declined to elaborate beyond that when asked by The Associated Press. The cost of the 65,000-seat domed stadium is pegged at $1.9 billion (see full story).
Colts: 10-year veteran LB Jackson cut to save cap room
INDIANAPOLIS – Linebacker D'Qwell Jackson became the first cost-cutting loss of the Indianapolis Colts' offseason.
He probably won't be the last.
Philadelphia Eagles
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New general manager Chris Ballard made his first significant move Thursday, releasing the 33-year-old defensive signal-caller as the Colts attempt to rebuild their struggling defense.
"D'Qwell is a consummate professional," coach Chuck Pagano said in a release issued by team officials. "The way he approaches the game is second to none. His leadership and mentorship provided a valuable example for the younger players on this team. We are grateful for all of his contributions to the organization and wish him the best" (see full story).
Falcons: New OC Sarkisian still battles with alcoholism
ATLANTA – Since an embarrassing downfall at Southern Cal, Steve Sarkisian has certainly caught plenty of breaks in his professional life.
He called plays for Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide in the national championship game.
Now, he's got an opportunity to run the Atlanta Falcons' offense, inheriting a high-scoring team that just made it to the Super Bowl behind MVP quarterback Matt Ryan.
But Sarkisian's personal demons are something he must keep a handle on every day (see full story).
Cardinals: Palmer returning for 15th season
TEMPE, Ariz. – Carson Palmer is coming back for a 15th NFL season.
The 37-year-old quarterback made the commitment in a statement released Thursday.
"My intent was to take some time after the (2016) season to get away and see where I was physically and mentally," Palmer said. "On both fronts, I can say I'm ready to get back to work and prepare for the 2017 season."
There had been speculation about Palmer and receiver Larry Fitzgerald for next season. Fitzgerald said last week he was returning (see full story).
