NFL briefs

Cowboys LB Ware says neck improving

Irving, Texas — Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware said his sprained neck felt “100 percent better” on Tuesday but he did not practice and will undergo more tests before the team decides whether he will be available to face unbeaten New Orleans on Saturday night.

Ware is supposed to have X-rays, an MRI and other tests today to see if the swelling is gone and to make sure there are no problems.

“If he’s cleared medically then he could play,” coach Wade Phillips said. “There’s a possibility that could happen.”

Vikings LB Henderson suspended four games

Eden Prairie, Minn. — Minnesota Vikings backup linebacker Erin Henderson has been suspended for four games for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances.

The league announced the punishment Tuesday. The suspension covers Minnesota’s final three regular-season games and first playoff game. The NFL does not specify the substances for which players test positive.

Cardinals’ Fitzgerald has sprained knee

Tempe, Ariz. — All-Pro wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald has a bruised bone and a sprained right knee, leaving his status uncertain for the Arizona Cardinals’ game Sunday at Detroit.

The Cardinals said an MRI on Tuesday determined the extent of the injury but showed no more significant damage.

Fitzgerald was hurt on the third play of the third quarter of Monday night’s game at San Francisco when the 49ers’ Dashon Goldson landed on his leg on a deep pass attempt.