News & Sports

Former NFL player Brendon Ayanbadejo explains why his was let go from the Baltimore Ravens, saying "it's the natural course of the NFL" and wasn't because he was outspoken about LGBT rights. Ayanbadejo also talks about the stigma of homophobia in sports. (msnbc)

President Barack Obama highlights the need to create more middle class jobs during Tuesday's State of the Union address. (NBC News)

The inspirational story of Notre Dame's star linebacker Manti Te'o leading his team to glory despite his girlfriend's death made national headlines. But after Deadspin.com reported that the woman never existed, Te'o is now saying he was the victim of "someone's sick joke." NBC's John Yang reports. (TODAY)

Ariel Winter, 14, who stars in ABC's hit comedy "Modern Family," has been removed from her home and placed under the custody of her sister due to allegations that her mother is physically and emotionally abusive. E!'s Jason Kennedy reports, and legal analyst Lisa Bloom gives her take on the case. (TODAY)

Pro bowler and Atlanta Falcon tight end Tony Gonzalez is making a difference in the lives of sick children  by passing out little dolls called shadow buddies that help them cope with cancer, heart defects and other conditions they're fighting. NBC's Kristen Dahlgren reports. (TODAY)

PFT Live: Redskins rookie RB Alfred Morris joins Mike Florio to talk about his meteoric rise from unheralded sixth-round pick to the NFL's second-leading rusher through seven weeks. (NBC Sports)

"Parks and Recreation" star Nick Offerman is trying to help men grow fuller and more masculine mustaches for "Movember," the upcoming month where some men sport cookie dusters to support men's health. (TODAY)

PFT Live: Mike Florio talks about Seahawks rookie QB Russell Wilson and says that his respect and knowledge of the game will keep him in this league for a long, long time. (NBC Sports)

Known for his role as the lovable dad in TV's "Webster" and for being a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, Alex Karras died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles after being diagnosed with kidney failure and dementia. (TODAY)

Danny Pino of "Law & Order: SVU" spoke of the "gritty and intense" show that will premiere Wednesday. Keep an eye out for TODAY's Jenna Wolfe when she makes her cameo appearance. (TODAY)