Falcons Working on Trading George

The Atlanta Falcons worked to trade exiled quarterback Jeff George, reportedly trying to arrange a straight-up deal for struggling Seattle quarterback Rick Mirer.

The Seahawks were negotiating with George’s agent, Leigh Steinberg, on a new contract, with several media outlets reporting it would be a six-year deal for about $30 million, including a signing bonus of $5 million.

George was suspended by the Falcons after a sideline confrontation with Coach June Jones during a Sept. 22 loss to Philadelphia.

Mirer’s agent, Marvin Demoff of Los Angeles, said he had not been notified of a trade for his client.

“All they’ve told Rick is that they were in negotiations and that was it,” Demoff said.

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The winless New Orleans Saints have new problems off the field to go along with their worries on the field.

Running back Ray Zellars was suspended for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars after a profanity-laced argument with Coach Jim Mora. Defensive end Darren Mickell was suspended for four games for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

Practice was disrupted on Thursday by a shouting match between Mora and Zellars.

With about 15 minutes left in practice, Zellars, who sat out three games because of broken ribs, refused to play fullback in a short-yardage drill.

Mora questioned Zellars’ toughness, Zellars responded with profanity and the coach ordered Zellars off the field.

NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue ordered Mickell suspended immediately. Mickell cannot practice, go to team facilities or be paid during the suspension.

“We are disappointed to lose Darren for the next four games, but we do stand behind the NFL on this,” Mora said.

To cover the missing players, the Saints added linebacker Don Davis to the active roster.

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Green Bay Coach Mike Holmgren wouldn’t confirm it, but rookie receiver Derrick Mayes said that he’ll be activated for the first time when the Packers visit Chicago on Sunday.

Mayes sat out the Packers’ first four games because of a dislocated shoulder.

Holmgren said he still needed to talk to special teams coach Nolan Cromwell about activating Mayes.

“I would like to activate Derrick if I could,” Holmgren said. “Physically, he’s ready to play. Last week he was close, but he wasn’t there.”