PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : AFC : Bills’ Paup Will Sue Before He Pays Fine

Buffalo Bill linebacker Bryce Paup says he will sue the NFL for defamation of character if it does not rescind a $12,000 fine against him.

Paup was fined for a hit on Indianapolis quarterback Paul Justin, and he believes the action by the NFL makes him look like a dirty player.

“What is this, intimidation?” NFL spokesman Greg Aiello asked. “We won’t respond to it.”

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Thurman Thomas says he’s ready for his first start in three games when Buffalo plays Atlanta on Sunday. Coach Marv Levy says he will wait until game time to make a decision. Thomas pulled a hamstring on Oct. 23.

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New York Jet guard Carlton Haselrig, suspended by Pittsburgh last season because of repeated alcohol-related incidents, was arrested early Monday in Bayonne, N.J., and charged with disorderly conduct, the New York Post reported.

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San Diego Charger running back Natrone Means will not play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs because of an injured groin.

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Jeff Hostetler practiced and the Oakland Raider quarterback is expected to play against the New York Giants despite a cracked bone in his left, non-throwing hand. Rookie linebacker Mike Morton will not play because of tendinitis in his right ankle. His ankle was put in a cast Thursday.

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Jacksonville running back Randy Jordan sprained his left ankle in practice and is doubtful for Sunday’s game against Seattle.