NFL | Neurological testing of players considered

The NFL hopes to conduct pre-training-camp neurological tests on players to determine susceptibility to concussions, commissioner Roger Goodell said yesterday.

A forensic pathologist who studied the brain tissue of Andre Waters after his suicide last November at age 44 concluded that the former Eagles safety had brain damage, prompting a debate in NFL circles.

Goodell also said the NFL is looking into the possibility of playing a Super Bowl outside the United States, although not before 2012 at the earliest.

He also said the league could expand its international appeal by cutting the exhibition season to three games and adding a 17th regular-season game - outside the United States.

Saints. Defensive end Charles Grant agreed to a seven-year contract extension with New Orleans, which had designated him a franchise player.

Falcons. Police conducting a drug investigation raided a house owned by Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick in Smithfield, Va., and found dozens of dogs, some injured and emaciated. Police also found items associated with dog fighting.

State Police Sgt. D.S. Carr said Vick's relative, Davon Boddie, 26, lives in the house.

Vick owns the property, but doesn't live there, Carr said.

More than 60 dogs were found in three buildings. Some appeared malnourished, scarred and injured, officials said.

Chargers. A woman who was with San Diego linebacker Steve Foley the night he was shot by an off-duty police officer was found guilty of felony assault with a deadly weapon.

Lisa Maree Gaut was convicted of trying to run down officer Aaron Mansker with Foley's car.

Bills. Buffalo cornerback Terrence McGee owes his former agent an additional $100,000 for negotiating the player's last contract, an arbitrator appointed by the NFL Players Association ruled.

Chiefs. Kansas City officials sharply denied rumors that they are shopping Pro Bowl running back Larry Johnson before this weekend's NFL draft.

The 27-year-old Johnson, a former Penn State star, is entering the final year of his contract.