NFL Round-up; July 17, 2008

The National Football League is reportedly hiring experts to determine whether players are displaying gang-related hand signals during on-the-field celebrations. While not a wide-spread problem, league officials say some players have used suspicious hand gestures in the past.

According to a Foxsports.com report, the Green Bay Packers have filed tampering charges against the Minnesota Vikings for reportedly communicating with retired quarterback Brett Favre. The allegations stem from conversations Favre, who is still under contract with the Packers, allegedly had with Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell. Espn.com reporter John Clayton reports that sources also indicate Favre may have had conversations with Coach Brad Childress.

The Baltimore Ravens reached an agreement with 1^st round pick Joe Flacco that would pay him $30 million over five years. Flacco, who was selected 18^th overall, will compete with Kyle Boller and Troy Smith for the starting quarterback job.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Josh McCown injured his throwing hand with a chainsaw. The cut required six stitches but his agent believes he will be fully recovered by the start of training camp. McCown was signed to a 2-year, $6.25 million contract in February and will be competing for Miami's starting quarterback job.

The Denver Broncos signed fullback Peyton Hills. The rookie out of Arkansas was a 7^th round pick.

The Houston Texans signed linebacker Xavier Adibi. The Texans drafted Adibi in the 4^th round of April's draft.

The Kansas City Chiefs reached three-year agreements with receiver Kevin Robinson and defensive end Brian Johnston. Robinson was drafted in the sixth round and Johnston was drafted in the 7^th round.

The New York Jets signed cornerback Dwight Lowery. The fourth round pick can play both cornerback and safety as well as return punts.

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed linebacker Mike Humpal to a three-year deal. He was selected in the 6^th round.

The San Francisco 49ers signed guard Chilo Rachal. The 49ers drafted him in the second round after he left USC following his junior year.