NFL notes: Clinton is run out of D.C.

The Associated Press

First published 10 minutes ago
Updated 1 minute ago
“Southeast Jerome” is officially gone for good. As well as “Dolla Bill” and “Sheriff Gonna Getcha.”

Clinton Portis was released by the Washington Redskins on Monday, ending a charismatic and sometimes contentious seven-year stay that, for a while at least, made him the face of the franchise.

Injuries and money led to coach Mike Shanahan’s decision. Portis had played in only 13 games over the past two seasons because of a severe concussion in 2009 and a torn groin muscle in 2010.

Portis was scheduled to make $8.3 million next season, and Shanahan made it clear Friday that the franchise wouldn’t keep the 29-year-old running back at that price.

“We’re going to let him test the market,” Shanahan said, “and see what’s out there.”

Portis told 106.7 The Fan that he was given a chance to restructure his contract, but he said it would be “hard to accept not being the go-guy.”

“It was kind of a mutual decision,” Portis said. “They could have sat and held on and played around. They gave me an opportunity to further my career and go somewhere where I can help.”

Portis is 77 yards of 10,000 career rushing yards and leaves Washington 648 shy of one of his oft-stated goals — Hall of Famer John Riggins’ franchise record.

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Bears • Chicago released veteran defensive tackle Tommie Harris on Monday, cutting loose a three-time Pro Bowl pick who had struggled in recent years with injuries. The Bears also released linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer and offensive tackle Kevin Shaffer.

Jaguars • Jacksonville has signed quarterback Luke McCown to a one-year contract, giving the team an experienced backup to David Garrard. McCown has played in 16 games, with seven starts, in seven seasons.