Gruden downplays speculation

Jon Gruden says he wants to continue as coach of the Buccaneers, even as speculation has swirled lately about his possibly taking over at the University of Tennessee.

Gruden told the St. Petersburg Times in yesterday's editions, "I've said it from the beginning, this is the only job I've really ever wanted. As long as the Glazers will have me, I'll be here."

Gruden's contract with Tampa Bay runs through 2011 and he makes more than $4 million annually. The Bucs are 6-3, tied for second in the NFC South.

"I've got a lot of respect for Tennessee," he said. "I grew up down there a little bit. My wife is from there. But this is where I want to be, and I can only make myself that clear."

Parker hopes to play

Steelers running back Willie Parker (sprained knee) will return to practice today, and coach Mike Tomlin is optimistic Parker will play Sunday against the Chargers.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been bothered by an injured throwing shoulder.

Tomlin characterized Roethlisberger's condition as "status quo" but said he was likely to practice this week.

The team signed cornerback Fernando Bryant, who was with the Patriots in training camp.

Niners blame officials

49ers coach Mike Singletary simply wishes the officials had given him more information more quickly in the final seconds of San Francisco's close loss at Arizona Monday night.

Communications lapses among the officiating crew, the 49ers' coaching staff, and the San Francisco players were responsible for the ugly end to a riveting game: Michael Robinson's ineffective attempt to run the ball in from 2 1/2 yards on what turned out to be the final play in San Francisco's heartbreaking 29-24 defeat.

Although Singletary accepted the blame, he also wished the officials had made it clear they were moving the ball back 2 yards after video review on Frank Gore's run on the previous play. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz called a fullback draw that's designed to get only about a yard - which is about how far the 49ers thought they had to go.

"No one came to our sideline to say the ball was going to be moved," Singletary said.

McAlister goes on IR

The Ravens placed cornerback Chris McAlister (knee) and strong safety Dawan Landry (neck) on injured reserve, ending their seasons. McAlister underwent surgery Monday to repair his posterior cruciate ligament and cartilage damage on his right knee . . . Riddled by injury at running back, the Broncos signed free agent Tatum Bell to his second stint in Denver . . . Addled by injury at the position, the Seahawks still released wide receiver Keary Colbert.