NFL Notebook | 49ers QB Smith doubtful after injury

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers added quarterback Alex Smith to their injury report Saturday, listing him as doubtful for today's game against Arizona with another problem in his surgically repaired right shoulder.

Shaun Hill will be the backup against the Cardinals.

Coach Mike Nolan said the injury occurred without contact during practice Friday. Smith, the former No. 1 overall draft pick, was expected to back up J.T. O'Sullivan, who beat out Smith for the starting job in training camp.

"He will be consulting with his surgeon in Birmingham for treatment recommendations," Nolan said. "At this time there are no specifics to the injury or a timetable."

Michael Robinson, a former Penn State quarterback, is likely to be the No. 3 quarterback.

Notes

• The Arizona Cardinals placed center Al Johnson on injured reserve Saturday, sidelining him for the season. Johnson hurt his knee in training camp and had surgery in early August. Johnson missed two games last year with a knee injury. Center Pat Ross replaces Johnson on the active roster. The Cardinals also released safety Oliver Celestin.

• The New Orleans Saints, who practiced recently in Indianapolis to avoid Hurricane Gustav, open Week 1 of the regular season today against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the battered, but not bruised Louisiana Superdome.

Many players view today's game like the team's homecoming following Katrina and look for a vibrant and enthusiastic atmosphere inside the Dome.

• The Dallas Cowboys signed receiver Mike Jefferson off their practice squad Saturday. Former Husky Isaiah Stanback is expected to play despite having to wear a shoulder harness. Offensive lineman James Marten was released.

• The Green Bay Packers likely will head into Monday night's opener against the Minnesota Vikings a little thin at wide receiver. James Jones is doubtful for the game with a knee injury, and Green Bay kept only five receivers on its 53-man roster.

• Buffalo Bills Pro Bowl left tackle Jason Peters ended his holdout and reported to the team Saturday.

• Javon Walker is ready to test his injured left hamstring today against the Denver Broncos. The Raiders' starting wide receiver practiced Saturday for the first time since Wednesday, when he was a limited participant.

• Former Bears running back Cedric Benson, released by the team on June 9 following two alcohol-related offseason arrests, said he has a tryout with the Houston Texans next week.

• Houston tackle Eric Winston has agreed to a five-year, $30 million extension that includes $10 million in guarantees, according to ESPN.com.

• The Denver Broncos reached a deal with linebacker D.J. Williams for a five-year, $32 million deal, according to a report on ESPN.com. The deal includes $13 million in guarantees.