McCrary’s Career Is in Jeopardy

Michael McCrary was put on injured reserve by the Baltimore Ravens on Monday, a move that could usher the two-time Pro Bowl defensive end into retirement.

McCrary has played in only five games this season because of a nagging knee injury. Chronic knee problems limited him to 10 games last year, leading Raven Coach Brian Billick to believe McCrary’s career is over.

“He’s been a great warrior and a great player,” Billick said. “I’m pleased he gets to go out as a Baltimore Raven. I think that’s important to him, and that he can leave with a Super Bowl ring in tow.”

McCrary, 32, has started only two games this season and has not played since Oct. 20. His knees are in such bad shape he could endanger his ability to walk by attempting to extend his career.

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Miami Dolphin quarterback Jay Fiedler will start next Monday night against the Chicago Bears after sitting out six weeks because of a broken right thumb.

Ray Lucas, who started at quarterback Sunday, underwent an MRI exam on his injured shoulder, but results were not be available.

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Chicago Bear Coach Dick Jauron said that running back Anthony Thomas will miss the rest of the season because of a broken left index finger.

With Thomas out, rookie running back Adrian Peterson, a sixth-round draft choice, will get more playing time.

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Kicker Wade Richey was cut by the San Diego Chargers, a day after he was benched midgame for sending a kickoff out of bounds.... Seattle cornerback Willie Williams is expected to sit out two weeks because of a sprained right foot.... The Washington Redskins signed kicker Jose Cortez and punter Craig Jarrett and released kicker James Tuthill.... Cleveland will be without Dennis Northcutt, the team’s leading kick returner and a key third-down receiver, for at least a week because of a sprained right knee.