Cowboys Await Word on Irvin, Carver

The wait goes on for Michael Irvin and the Dallas Cowboys, in limbo pending word from Commissioner Paul Tagliabue.

The team and owner Jerry Jones hope to learn by Wednesday whether the NFL will punish Irvin for his recent drug scandal. The Cowboys had hoped to hear something Monday, but the league said no announcement was coming.

Irvin, who has not reported to camp while awaiting word on his fate, pleaded no contest to drug possession earlier this month.

The Cowboys also are awaiting word on the fate of defensive end Shante Carver, who could be suspended a year for alcohol abuse. An NFL source said the personal reasons cited by Jones in explaining Carver’s absence include a pending suspension. The source said the team has been notified of the charge against Carver, and the appeals process was under way.

Also, Dallas safety Roger Harper broke his right arm in a scrimmage and was expected to sit out at least two months.

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Errict Rhett, holding out after contract negotiations stalled, was the only player absent when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers began two-a-day workouts.

The Buccaneers offered Rhett, who has rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of his first two seasons, a six-year deal believed to be worth more than $14 million. Rhett is reportedly seeking $3 million a year, plus a $5 million signing bonus.

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Cornerback Tim McKyer, 32, who played for the Atlanta Falcons in 1991-92, signed a three-year contract with the team. McKyer played for the Carolina Panthers last season and had 66 tackles. The Falcons released rookie defensive lineman Trent Zenkewicz to keep the roster at 82 signed players. . . . Cornerback Alex Molden, the No. 1 draft pick of the New Orleans Saints, signed a seven-year contract for a reported $10.1 million, including a $3.8 million signing bonus. . . . Philadelphia Eagle owner Jeffrey Lurie said he may look outside the city for a replacement for aging Veterans Stadium but would not leave the area for Los Angeles or any other city.