Patriots’ Bruschi might sit out 2005 season after having stroke

Wednesday, March 23, 2005 | 10:49 a.m.

SUN WIRE SERVICES

For the first time since his rookie season, Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi has retained the services of an agent to represent him, and they are discussing the possibility of Bruschi sitting out the 2005 season for health reasons, similar to the way Carolina linebacker Mark Fields sat out 2003 after being diagnosed with cancer.

As of Tuesday morning, Boston-based agent Brad Blank was listed as Bruschi's representative on the NFL Players Association website. A source with knowledge of the union's operation said the NFLPA received a signed form from Bruschi Monday designating Blank as his agent.

For the past five years, Bruschi served as his own agent in contract negotiations.

With three years remaining on his current contract, the defensive captain would seem to have little need for representation unless he was contemplating retirement, but Blank said no decision had been made.

Jaguars release linebacker Hendricks

Linebacker Tommy Hendricks was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars today, a week after he was charged with violating a restraining order taken out by his former wife.

Hendricks played 15 games last season after signing as an unrestricted free agent from Miami. The sixth-year player had 23 tackles and tied for the team lead with 16 special team tackles.

The Jaguars also said they have re-signed restricted free agent safety Deke Cooper.

Hendricks had been arrested on a misdemeanor charge. He was accused of calling his ex-wife twice in violation of the restraining order issued the previous day. He was released on $1,500 bond.

Romanowski ordered to pay $340,000

Marcus Williams won his case against former Oakland Raiders teammate Bill Romanowski. He just won't be receiving the millions he was seeking after his faced was smashed by a punch two years ago.

A jury ordered Romanowski to pay Williams $340,000 in damages for injuring the tight end during a practice drill in 2003. Williams was awarded $40,000 in medical expenses and $300,000 for lost wages -- about one season's salary.