Report: Cards extend DC Bowles through 2017

Todd Bowles has even more security now. (Arizona Cardinals)

Even with the loss of linebacker Daryl Washington to a season-long suspension, defensive end Darnell Dockett to a season-ending torn ACL and linebacker John Abraham to concussion issues, the Cardinals defense has been one of the team's biggest surprises this season, ranking fourth in the NFL in points allowed.

One major reason the defense has survived without three of their biggest pillars can be traced back to defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, who's become one of the hot names for possible head-coaching job openings for 2015.

As such, the Cardinals have taken a step to try to prevent him from leaving, extending his contract through 2017, according to Pro Football Talk.

Bowles, whose contract previously expired after the 2015 season, now reportedly is one of the top-five highest-paid assistants in the NFL.

As ESPN's Adam Schefter writes, "The deal was hammered in recent days by president Michael Bidwill and general manager Steve Keim. Now, when teams pursue Bowles for head-coaching opportunities, which is expected this winter, he now will have the chance to be extremely selective about taking a job and leaving Arizona."

Bowles was the interim coach for the Dolphins after they fired Tony Sparano during the 2011 season, and, under Bowles' leadership, Miami performed admirably. Bowles had a chance at the Browns job that ultimately went to Mike Pettine, but he pulled his name out of consideration well in advance.

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Browns TE Jordan Cameron (concussion) still not practicing



Cleveland Browns tight end Jordan Cameron missed practice again Tuesday as he's still trying to get back on the playing field after suffering a concussion in the team's Week 8 game against Oakland. As long as Cameron is out, Jim Dray and Gary Barnidge will continue to get the snaps at tight end for the Browns.Cameron has just 13 catches for 250 yards and one touchdown in six games this season.



Cameron has been one of the biggest busts of the year. If he can't get back to the practice field by Thursday or Friday of this week, he'll likely miss Sunday's game against Houston. It's hard to drop him because of his talent and upside. However, roster spots are valuable. Hang on to him if you can, but if you're in need of a tight end for Week 11, don't be afraid to set him aside. Once WR Josh Gordon returns, which should happen in Week 12, Cameron's value will take a slight hit anyway.