Jags' Taylor out 3-4 weeks

It was an achingly familiar pose for Fred Taylor-standing by hislocker, waiting to limp out of the stadium on crutches.

The Jaguars running back left Friday night's 16-13 victory overthe New York Giants after the second play with a strained ligament inhis left knee. Coach Tom Coughlin said he would miss three to fourweeks.

"I have nothing to say," Taylor said.

Coughlin said it appeared a Giants defender fell on Taylor's kneeafter he had gone down following a six-yard gain, his only run of thenight.

Thus, another disappointment for Taylor, the back with tons ofpotential who just can't seem to stay healthy.

ELLIOTT UNRETIRES: Jumbo Elliott, who retired earlier this yearafter 12 NFL seasons, has changed his mind.

Elliott, 35, retired from the New York Jets in March, thenunderwent back surgery. But he has applied to the NFL to bereinstated as an active player. He remains property of the Jets, whoare talking with Elliott about his returning as a backup tackle.

The 6-7, 305-pound Elliott also is facing a two-game suspension,which he will appeal on Wednesday. After Elliott pleaded guilty toharassment and disorderly conduct charges stemming from a July 1999bar fight, he was fined $250 and ordered to perform 50 hours ofcommunity service. NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue then suspendedElliott for two games.

Elliott played for the Jets the last four seasons at left tackleafter leaving the New York Giants as a free agent.

BRACKENS SIGNS TENDER OFFER: Told to sign or stay home, defensiveend Tony Brackens agreed to a one-year offer with the JacksonvilleJaguars.

But there remains plenty of tough negotiating ahead for a long-term contract.

Brackens accepted the $4.25 million to which he is entitled as adefensive end with the franchise label. However, the Jaguars gave himno guarantees that they would lift the franchise tag and no agreementto waive fines should he leave camp.

Their only concession-if you can call it one-was a promise tonegotiate in good faith.

The parties have 23 days to make a deal before the regular seasonstarts. By signing and reporting to camp, Brackens, who led the teamwith 12 sacks last season, now holds a card of his own.

"If there's no deal, he won't be here for the regular season,"said Brackens' agent, Michael George.