Sports briefs
Raiders sign Culpepper: Free-agent quarterback Daunte Culpepper signed a one-year contract with Oakland on Tuesday, giving the Raiders a backup plan for top draft pick JaMarcus Russell, who has yet to sign with the Raiders.
Culpepper, 30, worked out in the afternoon before a gathering of Raiders scouts and coaches. The workout was private, and Culpepper left without speaking to reporters, but Raiders coach Lane Kiffin announced the signing shortly after the Raiders completed practice.
Culpepper, a former Pro Bowl star for the Minnesota Vikings, began 2006 as Miami's starter but had trouble with his mobility and was sacked 21 times in the first four games. The Dolphins eventually placed him on injured reserve. When they acquired Trent Green in a trade with Kansas City in the off-season, Culpepper became expendable.
Rawlings latest to drop Vick: Michael Vick lost another sponsor -- Rawlings.
The sporting goods company said Tuesday it was ending its relationship with the Atlanta Falcons quarterback because of federal dogfighting conspiracy charges.
"Rawlings recognizes that Mr. Vick has not been convicted of the charges stemming from his recent indictment," the St. Louis company said. "However, we have determined that ending our relationship with Mr. Vick at this time is necessary."
Rawlings used Vick's image in promotional displays in stores, and its decision is the latest commercial setback for the NFL star. Other sponsors distancing themselves from Vick include Nike and Upper Deck.
Mets' Beltran goes on DL: The New York Mets placed all-star center fielder Carlos Beltran on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday night before their game against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Beltran, 30, missed six games before going on the DL, retroactive to July 25. He is batting .263 with 19 homers and 62 RBI.
Etc. -- Chicago Shamrox forward Jon Harasym has been selected by Boston in the National Lacrosse League expansion draft. Boston, which begins its indoor lacrosse season this winter, took one player from each team. Harasym, a four-year NLL veteran, had 8 goals and 26 assists in 11 games last season for the Shamrox.
-- Tony Stewart was fined $25,000 and docked 25 points by NASCAR for cursing during his television interview after his win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
-- Freddy Adu, the 18-year-old American phenom who was among the highest-profile stars of Major League Soccer, has agreed to play for Benfica of Lisbon,working outwith the team a day after arriving in the Portuguese capital Monday to negotiate terms.