NFLPA to league: Delay testing for HGH
The players' union has told the NFL to hold off collecting blood for HGH testing, and the league isn't happy about it.
"We informed the NFL [Tuesday] that absent a collective agreement on several critical issues, blood collection is not ready to be implemented on Monday," the NFL Players Association said in a statement yesterday.
The NFL was preparing to draw blood samples beginning Monday, although full HGH testing was not scheduled yet. League spokesman Greg Aiello said: "We know of no reason why these initial steps should not begin next week."
The sides agreed to begin blood testing for HGH as part of the collective-bargaining agreement reached in July, but only if the union agreed to the methods. It is asking for more scientific data to prove the test is reliable.
The Eagles-Lions trade Tuesday that exchanged backup running backs Ronnie Brown and Jerome Harrison has been voided. A spokesman said the Lions would have no further comment. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Harrison has "health issues.'' The Lions wanted Brown because they may be without Jahvid Best (concussion) for a while.
Around the league
Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said John Beck will start against the Panthers. He replaces Rex Grossman, who threw four interceptions Sunday in a loss to the Eagles . . . A Mississippi coroner's report says former Bills center Kent Hull died of intestinal bleeding Tuesday . . . . The Panthers put tackle Jeff Otah (back, knee) on injured reserve.
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