Jim Finks took over as president and general manager of New Orleans seven years ago, fighting for the Saints' football respectability. One year, a 12-3 record and a playoff berth later, Finks won that fight.
On Wednesday, he resigned from the NFL team to spend his energies fighting for his life.Finks was diagnosed with lung cancer in early May, and his roles in the front office were assumed by owner Tom Benson. Benson will continue in those capacities as Finks continues his recovery.
"I have received good reports from my doctors," Finks, 65, said Wednesday in a statement issued by Benson. "There is an opportunity for me to fight this disease, and that's what I intend to do."
Finks, who came within three votes of becoming NFL commissioner in 1989, will continue to serve as a consultant to the Saints and as a member of its board of directors.
"I've got seven-plus years of blood, sweat and tears invested with the Saints," Finks' statement said. "I'm proud to continue to be involved, and very proud of the people now running the organization."
Benson said "the door would be open" if Finks decided later to return to the club in some capacity.
Vice President Jim Miller, who has been handling many of Finks' day-to-day duties during his absence, will concentrate on contract negotiations as the Saints prepare to open preseason training Friday.
Chicago Bears
Stan Thomas, offensive tackle, was arrested on a drunken driving charge just after midnight near a northwest Illinois suburban shopping mall. Thomas was arrested after he drove his Mercedes through a red light and onto the shoulder of the road, police said.
Cleveland Browns
Owner Art Modell said he is stepping down as chairman of the NFL broadcasting committee.
"I have enjoyed the last 30 years working on NFL television matters," Modell told commissioner Paul Tagliabue in a letter. "In that time, we have experienced an extraordinary growth of exposure and revenue. Needless to say, my interest in the league's welfare, and in particular that of the Cleveland Browns remains unabated."
Dallas Cowboys
Alan Veingrad, veteran offensive lineman, has decided to retire. Cowboy coach Jimmy Johnson said Veingrad, an eight-year veteran, called him and said he has decided to go into private business.
The 6-5, 280-pound Veingrad played both guard and tackle in a backup role during the 1992 Super Bowl season.
Miami Dolphins
Philadelphia Eagles running back Keith Byars has signed a two-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, the Dayton Daily News reported today.
Byars, a former star at Ohio State, was a free agent after seven seasons with the Eagles and had until today to either sign with a new team or stay in Philadelphia.