Broncos Sign Kicker Bentley

The Denver Broncos signed kicker Scott Bentley on Saturday to back up ailing Jason Elam, who is recovering from two broken bones in his lower back.

Denver Coach Mike Shanahan said there is still a chance Elam will play today against the Cleveland Browns, but NFL rules required the Broncos to set their roster by 1 p.m. PDT Saturday.

To make room for Bentley on the 53-man roster, the Broncos waived offensive lineman Melvin Tuten.

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Carolina Panther quarterback Steve Beuerlein has the flu and is questionable for today’s game against the New Orleans Saints. Beuerlein woke up Saturday feeling ill and was not able to practice, team spokesman Charlie Dayton said. . . . Offensive tackle Earl Dotson, out since Sept. 10 with a herniated disk, was one of four players the Green Bay Packers put on inactive status for today’s game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field.