Steelers' Williams sidelined 4-6 weeksSteelers backup running back DeAngelo Williams underwent knee surgery Wednesday and could miss 4-6 weeks.Williams, 33, has been dealing with knee inflammation the past couple of weeks and missed the game against the Patriots last month.After the open week, Williams returned to play against the Ravens last week, albeit in a limited capacity. He had one carry for one yard. On Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin said Williams had his knee re-evaluated.

Sherman fined for hitting kickerRENTON, Wash. — Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman confirmed Thursday he’s been fined by the NFL for his hit on Buffalo kicker Dan Carpenter in last Monday’s game against the Bills.Sherman said that the explanation from the league makes it nearly impossible for him to appeal the $9,115 fine. Sherman said the league’s justification in its letter to him was that his hit on Carpenter as he attempted to block a field goal attempt at the end of the first half came after the whistle was blown.

Braves, Dickey sign 1-year dealATLANTA — R.A. Dickey was won over by an Atlanta Braves sales team that included two Hall of Famers, including a fellow knuckleballer.Dickey said he knew the Braves would be a good fit after meeting in Nashville, Tenn., with a group that included manager Brian Snitker, general manager John Coppolella and two Hall of Famers — former manager Bobby Cox and knuckleballer Phil Niekro.“I had a great feeling then there was great hope I would be able to join the organization,” Dickey said Thursday after agreeing to a one-year contract with an $8 million guarantee.He gets a $7.5 million salary next year, and the Braves have an $8 million option for 2018 with a $500,000 buyout.

Holliday officially leaves CardinalsSCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Outfielder Matt Holliday became the final free agent, formally leaving the St. Louis Cardinals when he and the team agreed to waive a provision in his contract.He hit .246 with 20 homers and 62 RBIs in 110 games, missing substantial time with a thumb injury.