Cut From Cowboys, Aikman Wants To Play

I R V I N G, Texas, March 8 -- When Troy Aikman signed an $85.5 millioncontract two years ago, he figured it meant he would be with theDallas Cowboys the rest of his career.

Turns out, that same piece of paper is a big reason why the teamwaived him Wednesday.

Aikman's deal called for a $7 million bonus and an extensionthrough 2007 to kick in if he was on the roster today. Once theCowboys realized that delaying the dollars would've only madethings worse on future salary caps, owner Jerry Jones had littlechoice but to make a tough decision.

"To do what needed to be done to give us a chance to besuccessful would've definitely created some problems down theroad," Aikman said. "The long-term, crippling effect of the capwould not be worth that."

Next Stop: San Diego?

Aikman said if the Cowboys thought having him around anotheryear or two would bring another Super Bowl title, the risk might'vebeen worth it. Coming off a 5-11 season in which Aikman made itthrough only eight games, that wasn't likely.

"It wasn't in the best interest of the ballclub to try doingthat," Aikman said.

So after 12 seasons, six division titles and three Super Bowlchampionships, Aikman will no longer be wearing a star on the sideof his helmet.

But, if he has his way, the 34-year-old Aikman will still beplaying in the NFL — despite the 10 career concussions and ongoingback pain that many thought might drive him into retirement beforethe Cowboys had to push him out.

"I'm still capable of going out and playing at a high level andbeing healthy and doing the things necessary to be productive,"Aikman said.

The most likely landing spot is San Diego, where close friendNorv Turner is the offensive coordinator.

The Chargers, who released incumbent starter Ryan Leaf lastweek, also could use Aikman to groom Michael Vick should they makehim the first pick in the upcoming draft.

"I would certainly entertain that thought," Aikman said.

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