NFL Notes: Thursday Games, Cowboys, Saints, Vikings

Thursday Games

• Jason Cole of B/R reports that executives from television networks have urged the league to reduce of the ad timeslots during games to hopefully boost ratings.
• Cole mentions that having a full slate of Thursday night games dilutes the product available on premium days such as Sunday and Monday.
• According to Cole, the executives have urged the league to cut the Thursday games down to eight, despite the fact that commissioner Roger Goodell has said publicly that they have no plans to make changes to the current format.

Cowboys

• Todd Archer of ESPN writes that CB Brandon Carr, CB Morris Claiborne, S Barry Church and RB Darren McFadden should all be offseason priorities for the Cowboys.
• Archer can’t see a way for the Cowboys to retain G Ronald Leary, as he’s likely to command around $8 million per year as a free agent. Beyond that, it would be difficult to justify playing four offensive linemen at least $8 million annually.
• Another player who Archer could see departing in free agency is WR Terrance Williams.
• Archer could, however, see Dallas re-signing WR Brice Butler to a short-term contract.

Saints

The New Orleans Saints announced Friday that owner Tom Benson has reached a settlement with his heirs that has been finalized with all other lawsuits now being either final or dismissed.

“This has been a long and difficult time and we are pleased this is behind us,” said Benson. “We have many great projects ahead and look forward to them. In addition, we continue to strive for our number one goal and that is winning championships in football and basketball.”

Vikings

• Vikings President and co-owner Mark Wilf said of RB Adrian Peterson returning to the team: “Tough analysis we’re going to have to go through. Combination of a business decision and football decision.” (Chris Tomasson)
• Adam Schefter of ESPN reported earlier in the day that no one expects the Vikings to pay veteran Peterson the $6 million roster bonus he’s due on March 11. (NFLTR)