GM regrets mocking Tomlinson

Chargers general manager A.J. Smith regrets making comments mocking star running back LaDainian Tomlinson, whose eight-year stay with the team could be over because of salary-cap issues.

Smith called Tomlinson on Monday to try to clear the air.

"It was important to me that L.T. know exactly what happened," Smith said on the team's Web site.

After Tomlinson said on his Web site last week that he wanted to stay in San Diego, Smith mocked the 2006 NFL MVP in comments to the San Diego Union-Tribune, mimicking L.T.'s comments practically word-for-word.

"I just answered a question and unfortunately my response was inappropriate," Smith said. "After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was interpreted the way it was. I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T ... none. I have the utmost respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person."

Extra points: The New England Patriots hired former Tennessee general manager Floyd Reese as their senior football adviser after losing vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli to Kansas City as general manager. "It's as thrilling as it can get," Reese said. "The opportunities most of the time are in areas or with teams that are broken, unable to win, don't have quarterbacks, don't have backing, maybe have issues with stadiums or facilities, fan support, whatever it may be. This opportunity is so at the opposite end of the spectrum from all of that." ... A Philadelphia man shot with a gun owned by Colts receiver Marvin Harrison is headed to trial today, accused of lying to police. Dwight Dixon is due in Philadelphia municipal court on three charges of making false sworn statements, according to court records. ... According to the Indianapolis Star, the Indianapolis Colts cut about 25 jobs this week. ... Former NFL player Mike Sullivan was hired as offensive line coach by the San Diego Chargers. Sullivan played for Tampa Bay for four years and Dallas for one season.