Fans will not see Tim Tebow throw at the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine. But they can see the next best thing on NFL Network on Thursday, when the University of Florida quarterback appears at NFL Total Access, starting at 7 p.m. ET.

Traditionally, 6-foot-3 is considered the prototypical height for a standout defensive end/outside linebacker. But the times could be changing. Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert said there is a place for shorter players on the edge.

Another round of labor talks between the NFL and NFLPA took place Thursday amid the start of the combine, but there were no indications that a new collective bargaining agreement will be reached before March 5, thus, a season without a salary cap seems a certainty, although no one is saying that on the record.

Niners GM Scot McCloughan said it’s “50-50 right now” the team will be able to work out a long-term deal with NT Aubrayo Franklin, who was given the non-exclusive franchise tag earlier this week.

Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland said the team’s attempted release of veteran LB Joey Porter had nothing to do with his off-field comments, and more to do with his on-field performance.

Every year, a few players boast about how they will break new ground by running unheard of times in the 40-yard dash. LSU track star and return man Trindon Holliday became the first to do so this year.

During his Thursday news conference at the NFL Scouting Combine, Bills coach Chan Gailey wouldn’t address reports that the Bills might be interested in adding a veteran quarterback.

Lions coach Jim Schwartz just addressed reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine media center and said the team is willing to move its first-round draft pick (No. 2 overall) if the right trade presents itself.

The Steelers have reached an agreement with NT Casey Hampton on a new contract, director of football operations Kevin Colbert announced Thursday at the NFL Scouting Combine.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed DT Casey Hampton to a three-year, $21.3 million deal, and will place a franchise tag on kicker Jeff Reed on Thursday, according to a league source.

The opening scenes of the 2010 Scouting Combine are underway, as the first groups of the 329 invited players arrive and coaches and general managers meet with the media.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making significant progress on a multi-year deal with NT Casey Hampton, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.

The Seahawks designated kicker Olindo Mare their franchise player, it was announced by the team today.

Texas QB Colt McCoy isn’t ready to throw at the combine this week, according to a source with the knowledge of the situation.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft said Wednesday he thinks a deal is close with franchised DT Vince Wilfork, according to a transcript posted on Comcast Sports Net New England’s Web site.