UNHAPPY linebacker threatening to retire without more money

<br>(Dallas-AP) -- Last year, it was offensive lineman Erik Williams. This spring, it's linebacker Darren Hambrick who's threatening retirement to back his dissatisfaction with his contract. <br><br>The

Friday, May 4th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Dallas-AP) -- Last year, it was offensive lineman Erik Williams. This spring, it's linebacker Darren Hambrick who's threatening retirement to back his dissatisfaction with his contract.

The restricted free agent, who led the Cowboys in tackles last season with 154, says he's upset with Dallas' one-year tender offer, worth 512-thousand dollars.

Coach Dave Campo, who expressed disappointment with attendance at the workouts, says he'll be patient with Hambrick. But Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones says Hambrick is only hurting himself.

If Hambrick doesn't sign the contract by June 15th, the Cowboys could rescind the offer or lower it to 418-thousand dollars. The team could also release him.

Defensive back Phillippi Sparks also is unhappy with his contract as well. Like Hambrick, Sparks skipped the Cowboys' voluntary four-day quarterback school this week.

The third no-show, receiver Carl Pickens, was signed earlier this month by Dallas as a third-down possession receiver. But he's been battling a hamstring injury and apparently is reconsidering his future.