Tony Scheffler is retiring from the NFL.
Scheffler told The Associated Press on Wednesday that having three concussions over the past four years had "a lot" to do with his choice.
He had 258 receptions for 3,207 yards and 22 touchdowns in his eight-year career. The Detroit Lions released Scheffler in October. He later had workouts with Chicago and Kansas City and says there was "moderate" interest in him as a free agent this offseason.
Denver drafted him in the second round in 2006 out of Western Michigan and traded him four years later to Detroit (see full story).
Panthers: Newton says focus on ankle, not contract
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Cam Newton said his focus is on getting back on the football field, not a new contract.
The Panthers quarterback said Wednesday he's happy for San Francisco's Colin Kaepernick, who recently signed a six-year, $126 million contract. He even sent a congratulatory text message to Kaepernick, who beat Newton and the Panthers in the NFC divisional playoffs 23-10 in January.
The Panthers have talked about a long-term contract for Newton but no deal has been completed.
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"For me, that's the last thing that's on my mind," Newton said.
Newton didn't practice Wednesday as he continues to rehab his left ankle following surgery in March, but spoke to the media inside the stadium afterward. He said he wants to participate in next week's three-day minicamp, but isn't sure if he'll be ready (see full story).
Vikings: Minneapolis in pursuit of MLS team
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Super Bowl has been secured. Now the Minnesota Vikings have set their sights on soccer.
With construction underway on their new stadium, the Vikings have intensified their pursuit of a Major League Soccer franchise for the NFL facility that team owners designed in hopes of accommodating both sports.
Co-owner Mark Wilf met this week with MLS officials, the latest dialogue between the two parties. The Vikings also announced a partnership with promoter Relevent Sports, a major player in the soccer world that is helping sell an international tournament game between two European teams to be played at the University of Minnesota in August.
"We like to go to new markets," Revelant Sports CEO Charlie Stillitano said Wednesday. "It seems like wherever we go an MLS team follows, and I think it's a good thing" (see full story).