NEW YORK - Pat Summerall is trying to talk the NFL into a new method of measuring first downs.
Summerall, a former receiver and kicker and a broadcaster for more than 20 years, is proposing a laser-based system that projects a green stripe onto the field to mark the exact spot of a first down. It's similar to the yellow line used by networks but would be visible to players and fans in the stadium, as well as TV viewers.
Summerall's presentation at the owners meetings last week received a lukewarm reception. League officials view it as a long-term project at best.
Alan Amron, the inventor, thinks the laser could be tested in preseason games this summer, but top league officials are skeptical.
"I don't think it's anything we'd do any time soon," said Bucs general manager Rich McKay, chairman of the competition committee.
BENGALS: The team acquired fullback Mike Green on waivers from the Titans. Green, 26, was a seventh-round pick in the 2000 draft. He rushed 21 times for 71 yards last season with Tennessee and had seven catches for 57 and one touchdown.
EAGLES: Free-agent placekicker Carlos Martinez signed a two-year contract.
49ERS: Receiver J.J. Stokes received permission to seek a trade.
Stokes, who lost his job as San Francisco's No.2 receiver to Tai Streets last season, probably will be released after June 1 if his agents can't arrange a deal.
Stokes had 32 receptions for 332 yards and a touchdown last season, starting eight games. He began the season as the top receiving option behind All-Pro Terrell Owens, but Stokes was slowed by injuries that allowed Streets to take his job.
Also, defensive tackle Travis Kirschke agreed to a one-year contract. He spent the past six seasons with the Lions, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 1997. He has started 10 games and made 114 tackles.
TEXANS: The team has reached an agreement with free-agent running back Stacey Mack, his agent, Tim McGee said.
The agreement is for one year, said McGee. Team officials said their policy doesn't allow them to comment on agreements.
McGee said Mack, who played the past four seasons for the Jaguars, chose to sign with Houston because he wanted the opportunity to be a starter.
2003 schedules
DOLPHINS: The team will open with the Texans and face five teams from last season's playoffs.
Miami also will play on Thanksgiving Day for the fifth time when it meets the Cowboys at Texas Stadium on Nov.27. The Dolphins are 3-1 on Thanksgiving.
Miami plays the AFC East champion Jets twice, along with playoff teams the Giants, Colts, Titans and Eagles.
JAGUARS: The team will start on the road for the first time in three seasons. It will be at Carolina, the former team of new coach Jack Del Rio.
Jacksonville will face five teams and play seven against those that made the playoffs, including two each against AFC South rivals Tennessee and Indianapolis.
[Last modified April 4, 2003, 02:33:12]
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