NFLPA head: Owners preparing for no season in 2011

NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith said there are new signs that the owners are preparing for a football-free 2011. With support from Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, he's asking fans to take the players' side.

Smith spoke yesterday at a tailgate-style fan luncheon a few blocks from Lambeau Field. He referred to a recent Sports Business Journal report that said the NFL is requiring banks that lend money to its teams to extend grace periods for loan defaults through the end of the 2011 season in the event of a lockout.

Dolphins fire special-teams coach

Monday's prime-time meltdown by the Dolphins' special teams cost an assistant coach his job. John Bonamego was fired 12 hours after special teams cost Miami 21 points in a 41-14 loss. Two blocked kicks led to touchdowns after the Patriots returned a kickoff 103 yards for a score.

Around the league

The Panthers released receiver Dwayne Jarrett after his second DWI arrest in less than three years. He was replaced by receiver David Clowney, claimed off waivers from the Jets . . . The Bills traded running back Marshawn Lynch to the Seahawks, who released Julius Jones. The Bills said they will receive undisclosed draft picks . . . The Colts said safety Melvin Bullitt is out for the season with a right shoulder injury.