Week 11 Players in the News

*** Saturday Update *** QB Kurt Warner (ARI) was excused from Friday’s practice for personal reasons, but he is expected to be available to play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** QB Byron Leftwich (JAX) The Jaguars released a statement Saturday that said Leftwich has opted for surgery. But the team also said he still might return this season.

``We look forward to getting Byron back on the field, and this is the first step in that process,'' coach Jack Del Rio said. ``We will have a better idea of the length of his recovery time after the surgery. I know that Byron will work diligently to get back and rejoin his teammates as soon as possible.''

*** Saturday Update *** QB Luke McCown (TB) is not quite ready to play in a game after being just 5 months removed from surgery to repair a partially torn ACL. As each week brings a new bump in the road for rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski, fans are wondering whether the third-year player's experience might help the offense. Not yet, McCown said. "The knee feels good, but there's some level of protection we have to take because I'm only five months out of surgery," McCown said.

Running Back

*** Saturday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday. There is still a question however as to how much he'll play Sunday.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) practiced Friday for the first time this week. Even though HC Nick Saban refused to give Brown the go-ahead, Brown said he expects to start Sunday against the Vikings. "It's kind of reassuring that I went out there and felt pretty good," Brown said. Saban said reserves Sammy Morris and Travis Minor will get more work regardless of Brown's status.

Wide Receiver

*** Saturday Update *** WR Marcus Robinson (MIN) With the receiving corps struggling since WR Marcus Robinson went down to a back injury on Oct. 22, the Vikings are hopeful he can return this week against Miami. Robinson said he's still a little sore, but has felt progressively better each of the last three days of practice. "I always want to play," Robinson said. "But sometimes in doing that you can put yourself in jeopardy. That's when the coach steps in and sits you down."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Plaxico Burress (NYG) handed out compliments to Jacksonville defense and CB Rashean Mathis. Mathis is one of the best young cornerbacks in the game and he leads the league with six interceptions. Mathis' 16 interceptions since 2004 are matched only by Denver's Champ Bailey. "The guy has good hands, he makes a lot of catches like the receivers," Burress said. "He sits outside and breaks on the football; he doesn't drop a lot of picks, so if he gets his hands on it he usually catches 'em." Mathis plays left cornerback, meaning he will line up across from Burress whenever the Giants have their top receiver on the right side of the field.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Sinorice Moss (NYG) has played in just one game this season because of a strained quad muscle that simply won't go away. He's suffered relapses so often that the Giants are now being extremely cautious with him. After getting through a second straight week of constant, albeit limited, participation during practice, there finally is some light at the end of Moss' long injury tunnel. It doesn't look as if he'll return for Monday night's game in Jacksonville, he remains listed as questionable, but he may be ready to play next week in Tennessee.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Randy Moss (OAK) is "tired" of playing for a team that has won only six of 25 games since he joined the team before last season and is interested in being traded, he said on his weekly radio spot Friday. "It's done sort of set in, man, and I'm tired of it," Moss said on Fox Sports radio. "I might want to look forward to moving somewhere else next year to have another start and really feel good about going out here and playing football." Moss dropped this latest bombshell three hours or so before the Raiders boarded a plane for Kansas City. Moss still has two years left on his contract. He joined the Raiders in a trade that cost the Raiders the rights to the No. 7 pick and a seventh-round selection in the 2005 NFL draft, as well as middle linebacker Napoleon Harris. The Raiders would have to trade Moss after the season or release him at any time for him to play elsewhere. Releasing Moss wouldn't require a significant salary-cap hit.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) is officially listed as doubtful and will be a game time decision but the team isn't expecting him to be able to play. Antwaan Randle El would be the guy that would likely benefit if Moss can't go.

Tight End

*** Saturday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is obviously expected to play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** TE Tony Scheffler (DEN) has struggled this season and isn’t sure what his problem might be. "Obviously, I’m not doing something right," Scheffler said. "I need to figure it out and show them in practice that I belong on the field."

*** Saturday Update *** TE Jeff Dugan (MIN) is expected to start at fullback for the team in Week 11, replacing injured fullback Tony Richardson. "He's done some things back there," head coach Brad Childress said. "It's hard to tell the speed of the game. You can't simulate it, but he's done a good job. He's a smart guy."

*** Saturday Update *** TE Jermaine Wiggins (MIN) failed to get a reception in a game for only the second time in his 2+ seasons with the Vikings. He has only 25 receptions on the season compared to the 47 and 42 he had at this point the previous years. "You could see with this year the ball is getting spread out, so that's just the way it is," said Wiggins. "I still have caught enough balls where I'm in the mix of everything. You can't get frustrated, you can't let it bother you because there are going to be times when it's going to come your way and it's going to come a lot."

*** Saturday Update *** TE Vernon Davis (SF) practiced without restriction for the first time since fracturing his right fibula Sept. 24 but remained questionable. HC Mike Nolan said Davis' status would be a game-time decision.

*** Saturday Update *** TE Erron Kinney (TEN) recently underwent microfracture surgery to repair damage to his right knee. The recovery period for the injury is typically six to ten months. "Hopefully by the time the offseason comes around, it will be behind him," head coach Jeff Fisher said. "Different players have had it and come back, and come back nicely."

Kicker

Offensive Line

Defensive Line

*** Saturday Update *** DL Ebenezer Ekuban (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is obviously expected to play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** DL Albert Haynesworth (TEN) officially rejoined the Tennessee Titans' active roster Saturday, and likely will play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Titans waived rookie linebacker Terna Nande and moved Haynesworth to the roster before flying to Philadelphia. Saturday marked the end of a one-week exemption that allowed Haynesworth to practice without being added to the 53-man roster, following his five-game suspension from the league for stomping on Dallas center Andre Gurode's head. He rejoined the team at practice on Wednesday. Team officials made continuing anger management counseling a condition of his return. Coach Jeff Fisher had said he wanted to see what kind of shape Haynesworth was in after not practicing for six weeks before deciding if he would play. "It will take me a few plays to get back into actually pushing on somebody and running like that, but it should come back to me," Haynesworth said at a news conference Tuesday. "I've been playing it for a while so I should be all right."

Linebacker

*** Saturday Update *** LB Edgerton Hartwell (ATL) might not play against his former team as his recovery from knee surgeries possibly will sideline him Sunday at Baltimore. Hartwell returned to practice as a backup this week. He took the past two weeks off after his injured knees limited his mobility and flexibility in starts against Pittsburgh and Cincinnati. Those were the only games in which Hartwell has played this season after having arthroscopic procedures before the season on both knees to remove debris.

*** Saturday Update *** LB Keith Ellison (BUF) was held out of practice once again yesterday with his knee injury making it very unlikely he will be available for tomorrow's game against Houston. If he is inactive that may allow the Bills to activate Matt Bowen or Ashton Youboty for the first time this season.

*** Saturday Update *** LB Patrick Chukwurah (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is obviously expected to play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** LB Ian Gold (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is obviously expected to play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** LB Rob Morris (IND) contributed 11 tackles to the Colts' 17-16 victory over Buffalo. He was front and center in the team's best defensive showing of the season, and with Brackett unlikely to play again this Sunday, Morris figures to be there when the Colts play Dallas at Texas Stadium.

Defensive Back

*** Saturday Update *** DB Jimmy Williams (ATL) will likely be a game-time decision. Williams was limited this week because of a high left ankle sprain. He suffered the injury before last week's loss to Cleveland and played just one snap. If he can't go, Allen Rossum will start for the second consecutive week.

*** Saturday Update *** DB Troy Polamalu (PIT) has not missed a day of practice since sustaining a concussion six days ago and pronounced himself ready to play against the Browns. Polamalu said there was never a question in his mind he would play in Cleveland. "Not even on Monday," Polamalu said. "I feel good. Actually, I feel worse and worse every time you guys ask the question. You make it a bigger deal than it is."

General Team News

*** Saturday Update *** TM Washington Redskins (WAS) The Redskins have placed tight end Christian Fauria on injured reserve and signed rookie wide receiver Mike Espy from the practice squad, the team announced on Saturday.

All the news

Quarterback

*** Saturday Update *** QB Kurt Warner (ARI) was excused from Friday’s practice for personal reasons, but he is expected to be available to play this weekend.

QB Carson Palmer (CIN) The Bengals have pulled the decision-making reins in on Palmer. "We changed things up a little bit and put things back in OC Bob Bratkowski's hands a little bit more and took it out of the quarterback's hands," said HC Marvin Lewis. Palmer completed 31 of 42 passes for a career-high 440 yards and three touchdowns, while the Bengals gained 545 yards of total offense.

*** Friday Update *** QB Charlie Frye (CLE) was upgraded from questionable to probable on Friday and is expected to start vs. Pittsburgh on Sunday.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Charlie Frye (CLE) wore a soft brace on his left wrist Wednesday. He bruised the wrist in Atlanta, but X-rays were negative. Frye is questionable. He participated fully in Thursday’s practice and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Charlie Frye (CLE) practiced on Wednesday but is questionable for this weekend with his bruised non-throwing wrist.

*** Friday Update *** QB Tony Romo (DAL) is currently suffering from a swollen right middle finger. He and the team are not certain when the injury occurred, though it is not considered to be serious and is not expected to miss any time as a result.

QB Jon Kitna (DET) does not have to worry about job security. "I'll make this statement right off the bat: Jon Kitna is our quarterback," HC Rod Marinelli said at his news conference Monday.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Josh McCown (DET) could play some receiver in the upcoming weeks, but offensive coordinator Mike Martz said the team would be smart about it and not send him on crossing patterns over the middle and will try to keep him out of harm's way if at all possible. That means that McCown, who has been catching passes with the receivers for several weeks, would likely be a fourth receiver and run deep routes in obvious passing situations. McCown has good speed, great leaping ability and good hands. Does anyone still have Mike Williams on their fantasy roster?

*** Friday Update *** QB Brett Favre (GB) has yet another injury in his long list of physical setbacks that have yet to keep him from missing a game. HC Mike McCarthy revealed after practice Friday that Favre suffered a groin injury in practice a day earlier. McCarthy said Favre was limited in practice Friday and took only some of the reps, though the reduced workload is typical for Favre in the final practice of a week. "He's sore today. His groin really bothered him," McCarthy said. Favre was included on the team's extensive injury report earlier this week because of sore ankles, which kept him out of most of practice Wednesday. Favre is considered probable to play Sunday against New England at Lambeau Field. His streak of 250 straight starts, including playoff appearances, doesn't appear to be in jeopardy. McCarthy said there are no concerns about Favre's ability to move in the game. "I talked to him at length today. He doesn't think (the groin injury is) a big deal," McCarthy said. Asked how the 37-year-old Favre was hurt Thursday, McCarthy said, "Just practice. Old age. Whatever."

*** Thursday Update *** QB Brett Favre (GB) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Brett Favre (GB) did not participate in the team portion of Wednesday’s practice but is expected to play this weekend according to HC Mike McCarthy. Favre “practiced and went all the way up until the blitz drill,” said McCarthy. “He has an ankle that's really bothering him, so we put him in the rehab group after the group period (of practice). He actually worked everything that we had in today's plan, except he didn't go through the team drills. I anticipate him going tomorrow.”

QB Brett Favre (GB) HC Mike McCarthy wants Favre to play again next season and plans to persuade him to return, according to Fox Sports reporter Jay Glazer. "Everybody talks about him retiring," Glazer said, referring to Favre. "But Saturday night, his head coach, Mike McCarthy, told me, 'I am going to try to convince Brett to come back one more year.'"

*** Friday Update *** QB David Carr (HOU) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB David Carr (HOU) practiced on Thursday. He was upgraded to probable on the injury report and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB David Carr (HOU) did not practice fully on Wednesday but is still expected to play this weekend.

QB David Carr (HOU) underwent an MRI on his bruised shoulder, and the results were negative. "All indications are that David will be fine and ready to go," HC Gary Kubiak said. "David said he was feeling pretty good when he left here today." If Carr is unable to play in Week 11, quarterback Sage Rosenfels would start in his place.

*** Saturday Update *** QB Byron Leftwich (JAX) The Jaguars released a statement Saturday that said Leftwich has opted for surgery. But the team also said he still might return this season.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Byron Leftwich (JAX) had been advised to rest his ankle seven to ten days before undergoing another evaluation. Dr. James Andrews, who recently provided Leftwich with a second opinion on his ankle, informed Leftwich that he still has debris and bone spurs in the joint. Team doctors have advised Leftwich to not play for the remainder of the 2006 season.

QB Byron Leftwich (JAX) went to Birmingham, Alabama on Monday to receive a second opinion on the status of his injured ankle. No additional information is currently available.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Trent Green (KC) says there will be no fear of that first hit. “I don't anticipate having (fear) on Sunday,” Green said Thursday. “Just because of some of the things I've been through early in my career. No, you can't play the position with fear, and I don't anticipate doing that.”

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Trent Green (KC) been cleared to return to practice, according to HC Herman Edwards. Edwards informed FOX Sports exclusively that he will name Green his starter for Sunday's game versus the Raiders. "We're going to go with Trent as our starter," Edwards said this morning after informing both Green and QB Damon Huard of his intentions. "This has been his football team for a long time. I think his return will give us a shot of adrenaline. But Trent alone won't allow us to win games." For weeks Edwards has quietly told those close to him that the moment Green got clearance to return he would regain his starting slot.

QB Trent Green (KC) Green has been cleared to practice Wednesday. "They gave me full clearance," Green said in his only interview after being cleared late Tuesday. "I haven't spoken to coach yet about it so I don't know what my role will be but I'm ready to do whatever they need."

Green said he was confident he'd had enough time to heal.

"I have no concerns at all, none," he said. "I've felt pretty good the last few weeks. The organization really handled it great. They let me take my time and they covered all the bases. Nobody ever tried to rush me back in. They all made sure I was right before allowing me to do too much."

Asked whether Green would play Sunday against the Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium if doctors give him permission, Edwards said, "We'll see. We'll see where he's at. I can't answer that until I know the extent of what he's going to participate in and how he's feeling in practice. He hasn't done anything live yet, so we'll just kind of see." Green hasn't played in two months and resumed practice only on a limited basis in the last few weeks. Edwards wasn't sure what the Chiefs could expect from Green. "You can't answer it," he said. "You can answer it in practice as to how he looks in practice. But until he actually goes in a game, no one's going to know. You anticipate whenever he has a chance to play again, you anticipate for him to play well. But he's going to be a little rusty. You know that."

*** Friday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) said Thursday the healing of his surgically repaired right knee is not going as smoothly as he had hoped and admitted that he may not play again until 2007. Culpepper said he wants to play again this season but that the risk could outweigh the reward. He also hinted at the possibility of having more surgery if the pain doesn't subside. "I don't know if I have to have more surgery. I doubt that as of right now," Culpepper said. "I think it's more strengthening my quad." Culpepper said being in street clothes Sunday against the Vikings will be difficult.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) says he still feels sharp pain in his reconstructed right knee a year after surgery, and isn't sure whether he'll play again this season. He will sit out Sunday's game against his former team, the Minnesota Vikings. It's the sixth consecutive game he'll miss after struggling through the first four. "This is one I wish I could have been in," Culpepper said Thursday. "Unfortunately my knee isn't as good as my spirit and my soul want to be." Speaking to reporters for the first time in more than a month, Culpepper said his knee is improving. But he said it's possible he'll sit out the rest of the year. "I'd be disappointed, but at the same time I won't be, because I know I've got to keep my eye on the big picture," he said. "It's really not about short-term, it's about long-term." Culpepper has been practicing on a limited basis and said the knee still bothers him. "I'm getting a sharp pain when I'm trying to push off," he said. "If I can get past that point, I think I can be very explosive." Wednesday was the one-year anniversary of his surgery.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) got some practice in on Wednesday. Culpepper, in the 20-minute session open to the media, wore a red jersey and a brace on his right knee and took snaps behind both Joey Harrington and Cleo Lemon. Culpepper threw a nice ball but appeared to still have a slight limp in his right knee -- something HC Nick Saban wanted to see corrected before he would let Culpepper back into the lineup. Obviously, he would love to face his old team, the Minnesota Vikings, on Sunday, but it will not happen. Culpepper is out.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) HC Bill Belichick said signing 43-year-old QB Vinny Testaverde yesterday has nothing to do with the health of starting QB Tom Brady or backup QB Matt Cassel. "Fortunately, both of them are healthy and we're happy with both of them," Belichick said, indicating that Testaverde will be the third, emergency quarterback. "When you have an insurance policy, you can't bring a guy in one week and expect him to learn the terminology that quickly, you have to make the move ahead of time," Belichick said.

*** Friday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend despite his injured calf.

*** Friday Update *** QB Patrick Ramsey (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to be available to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** QB Aaron Brooks (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend. HC Art Shell declined to name a starter in a brief interview after practice, and he expects to wait until Sunday to make an announcement. However, Brooks took the majority of first-team snaps at practice Friday, and all indications point to him starting Sunday's road game against the Kansas City Chiefs. According to a person who was at practice, Brooks clearly took more snaps with the starters than second-year quarterback Andrew Walter, and one teammate said afterward he thinks Brooks will start. "It is unusual," Shell said about holding off on naming a starter until so late in the week. "You've got a guy who's ready to play, showing that he's ready to play, he was the guy at the beginning of the year, and so we've got two guys I can turn to." Earlier this week, Chiefs HC Herm Edwards said his team was preparing as if Brooks was going to start against them.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Aaron Brooks (OAK) has been cleared by doctors to play after injuring a chest muscle in Week 1. He shared first team snaps with Andrew Walter yesterday at practice, but HC Art Shell has not named a starter for Week 10. Shell may wait until Sunday to make the announcement.

QB Aaron Brooks (OAK) Art Shell took issue with quarterback Andrew Walter's criticisms of the struggling offense and appears ready to make a switch back to Aaron Brooks. Walter took shots at coordinator Tom Walsh's offense after Sunday's 17-13 loss to Denver, saying there is not enough "depth" in the playbook, the offense was too predictable, and that the team needed to utilize more quick-developing plays than five- and seven-step drops. That didn't sit well with Shell, who has fiercely defended Walsh all season long from criticisms that he is out of touch after being away from the NFL for more than a decade. "You have to be accountable for what you do," Shell said Monday. "To start making statements about what's in and what's not in, then you need to take a hard look at what's there. Obviously, I don't want to get into a contest with a young man but for him to come out and say those things, (that's) totally off-base as far as I'm concerned." Shell said Walter's comments wouldn't play into the decision about who would start at quarterback Sunday at Kansas City, but he appears ready to give the job back to Brooks. "I'm going to take a hard look at it and see where we are with him (Brooks)," Shell said. "He's been throwing the last couple of weeks. I thought last week he threw the ball a whole lot better. I think he's very close. We'll see how he goes."

For his part, Brooks said that he is "available" to start against the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday. "I expect coach (Art Shell) to make the right decision," Brooks said Monday. "I've informed him where I'm at. It will probably be until the middle of the week until they make that decision." Brooks, who was just 6-for-14 for 68 yards before getting hurt, said the problems on the NFL's worst offense are more about execution than play calling. Brooks has made 84 starts in his career and said he believed he gives the team a better chance to win than the inexperienced Walter does. "I think we have a greater chance," Brooks said. "I possess some skills that with my experience gives us a greater chance."

*** Thursday Update *** QB Andrew Walter (OAK) apologized on Wednesday for criticizing the team's offensive game plan earlier in the week. "I was naive to think that my words wouldn't be heard across the nation," Walter said. "That won't happen again. I will be more wise as far as speaking from emotions and frustration after a tough loss. Everybody obviously is feeling that way, including the coaches. We're all in this together."

*** Friday Update *** QB Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) practiced on Friday but will be a game-time decision. With regards to Hasselbeck and RB Shaun Alexander, HC Mike Holmgren will not say for sure how much playing time, if any at all, the players will get. To keep the 49ers guessing the Seahawks have listed them as game time decisions.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) practiced again Thursday and seemed to gain some momentum as the practice progressed. The plan seems to remain that if all goes well, he would be in uniform Sunday and available as a backup QB but Seneca Wallace would start again.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) worked with the scout team Wednesday morning and will continue to do so until it is clear he is ready to retake the starting role. Hasselbeck was limping on his sprained right knee by the end of the 25 San Francisco plays he ran with the scout team. He was sharp early on in practice. By the end, his deep passes were underthrown. His limp gradually became more prominent when carrying out fakes after handoffs. He also appeared to avoid planting on the leg while throwing. Hasselbeck semi-jokingly attributed the limp to an extremely tight taping of the knee under his black brace. "It's more of a strut than a limp," he said. "I thought today went very well. I feel like I'm on schedule. And I'm extremely encouraged." Hasselbeck said last weekend that doctors originally told him he'd miss four to six weeks, "and the 28th day is Sunday." Hasselbeck added, "The big question would be just getting tackled and getting bent up in the bottom of a pile like a pretzel. I don't know how you plan for that. There's only one way to find out on that for real." HC Mike Holmgren added that because Hasselbeck can drop straight back and hand off, he could be the No. 2 quarterback behind fill-in starter Seneca Wallace on Sunday. "There is a chance he'll be active, because he can do most of the stuff," Holmgren said.

QB Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) has a chance to play in Sunday's game but probably won't practice fully until Friday. That was as close as HC Mike Holmgren could come to offering any certainty in the recovery of his quarterback. Hasselbeck practiced briefly last Friday and was at team headquarters on Monday for a workout. He is recovering from a sprained knee ligament, and Holmgren said that Hasselbeck's mobility will be the key in determining the time line for his return.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Seneca Wallace (SEA) has signed an extension with the team through the 2007 season.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Bruce Gradkowski (TB) suffered an injury to the thumb on his throwing hand during the team's Week 10 game against the Carolina Panthers. "We think he’s OK," head coach Jon Gruden said. "We’ll know more on Wednesday."

*** Friday Update *** QB Jason Campbell (WAS) will make his first NFL start this weekend, but he’ll likely be without two of the team's top offensive playmakers. RB Clinton Portis has been placed on the injured reserve list, and WR Santana Moss has been downgraded to doubtful with a bad hamstring. Moss will still be a game-time decision, but he is not expected to play. "We have other players who can step up and help him," HC Joe Gibbs said. "We've given him a tough situation to be in, but I know he's excited."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Jason Campbell (WAS) will make the first start of his NFL career on Sunday when the Redskins face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Campbell believes that he'll be alright with the help of his veteran teammates. "It's been a long time since I've done that," Campbell said. "But that's all part of it, getting back into a rhythm and getting used to playing a full game again. But I have great veterans around me. I have a veteran receiver group, a veteran offensive line and Ladell has played a long time. I'm surrounded by a great cast."

QB Jason Campbell (WAS) HC Joe Gibbs said during his Monday press conference that he will be making a switch at quarterback. Jason Campbell will start in place of Mark Brunell. "We're going to give Jason his opportunity and see if we can be more productive and see if we can get some more answers," Gibbs said.

Running Back

*** Friday Update *** RB Obafemi Ayanbadejo (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Jerious Norwood (ATL) practiced on Friday and barring a setback is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Jerious Norwood (ATL) practiced on Thursday. He is still listed as questionable for this weekend, but barring a setback is expected play.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Jerious Norwood (ATL) practiced on Wednesday but is questionable for this weekend with his injured knee. According to HC Jim Mora, Norwood “moved around fairly well” is practice. “The key thing is to see how he feels tomorrow but he will be listed as questionable for now,” said Mora.

RB Musa Smith (BAL) will reportedly be okay after suffering what head coach Brian Billick categorized as a "severe body burner" during the team's Week 10 game. Smith had to be carted off the field. However, Billick said that he expects Smith to play for the team in Week 11.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Willis McGahee (BUF) will not play this weekend due to his injured ribs.

*** Friday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) did not practice fully Friday but is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) was added to the injury report as probable with a thigh injury after missing some practice time on Thursday. He is still expected to start.

*** Friday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) did not practice on Friday and will be a game-time decision. Droughns agreed Friday when he was asked if it was fair to say he was going to do 'everything humanly possible' to get onto the field Sunday during the team's game against arch rival Pittsburgh. Droughns suffered the injury last week during the team's win at Atlanta but said it didn't become more severe until the following day. He missed portions of practice all week. "It has gotten a lot better," Droughns said. "Hopefully coach can make that decision whether it's today, tomorrow, or Sunday. We'll find out real soon."

*** Thursday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) It came as a bit of a surprise when HC Romeo Crennel said Wednesday that starting running back Reuben Droughns had sprained a foot during Sunday's win at Atlanta and would be listed as questionable for this week's game vs. Pittsburgh. While Droughns isn't putting up the numbers he did last year, when he rushed for 1,232 yards to become the team's first 1,000-yard rusher since 1985, he's still a crucial part in taking on a staunch defense like the Steelers. And, if Droughns' injury persists, the team will have to try to mount a multidimensional offense with backups Jason Wright and rookie Jerome Harrison in the tailback spot. "I'm always ready because even if Reuben is not on the injury report and we're going into a game 100 percent healthy something can happen in the middle of a game," Wright said. "So I always have to be ready. It's not any different for me. I'm going to go there, know all my special teams assignments and be ready (to run) as well." Droughns might be a game-time decision for this weekend. He was out of his protective boot Thursday and stretched with his teammates before practice, but he wasn't in full uniform. Crennel said he's confident that Droughns could still play and be effective with limited practice time, if it comes to that. Crennel said Droughns "is experienced enough, he knows the reads" to play Sunday even with limited practice time. Droughns will continue to receive treatment and will be evaluated over the next few days -- all the way up to Sunday morning if necessary.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) has a sprained foot and didn't practice on Wednesday. HC Romeo Crennel said Droughns would be in a protective boot Wednesday and will be evaluated as the week goes on.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Mike Bell (DEN) has taken his benching in stride. After running for 136 yards against Indianapolis, Bell gained just 28 yards at Pittsburgh and found himself deactivated Sunday against Oakland when HC Mike Shanahan played Damien Nash instead. "I figured I didn't do anything wrong to get into his doghouse, so he did what was best for the team and at that time he felt Nash deserved a chance," Bell said after practice Wednesday. "I was under the impression I didn't do anything wrong. I try to look at the bright things in every situation." Bell said he was fueled by the move, however. "Definitely. I'm a big-time competitor and I don't like being on the sidelines. I'm going to do whatever it takes to get back into the mix."

*** Saturday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday. There is still a question however as to how much he'll play Sunday.

*** Friday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DEN) practiced fully on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend. Even though he is not fully healed, he may get another start this weekend. How effective he will be is unclear.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DEN) HC Mike Shanahan disagreed with a reporter's description of the Broncos' running-back situation as "volatile" because of the use of four different players at the position in the last two games. "Well I don't think that it is very volatile," Shanahan said. "Right now we are going to get a chance to see how (Tatum Bell) looks this week. I think both toes are bothering him more than he let on last week and we will try to get him well and evaluate him during the week as well as the rest of our backs." Both Cobbs and Tatum Bell were on the injury report Wednesday, although each practiced. "We have a bunch of guys that are nicked up. Damien (Nash) has been nicked up; Cedric has been nicked up; Mike Bell has looked good," Shanahan added. "We will evaluate that throughout the week and try to come up with the best combination on Sunday night." For his part, Bell says he's lost a step because of two sprained big toes. That admission is the first for Bell, who had a bad game last week at Oakland. He did not practice fully on Thursday and remains questionable.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DEN) practiced on Wednesday but is once again listed as questionable for this weekend with two sprained big toes.

RB Tatum Bell (DEN) convinced HC Mike Shanahan he was healthy enough to play against the Raiders, but it was apparent in his performance that Bell was still hurting from two sprained big toes. Shanahan won't be so easy to convince next time. "I'm kind of disappointed in myself that I played Tatum Bell as much as I did," Shanahan offered in a rare public admission of regret. "Even though he says he's healthy, I don't think he's as healthy as he says he is. I saw that in the game."

*** Friday Update *** RB Cedric Cobbs (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to be available to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Kyle Johnson (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) rested some on Wednesday but is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Brandon Miree (GB) has been out the last two games because of a hyperextended left elbow. Miree practiced this week but wore a heavy wrap on the arm that restricted his ability to block. "He struggled a little bit today, so we'll wait and see," HC Mike McCarthy said.

*** Friday Update *** RB Vernand Morency (GB) has been cleared to play Sunday after missing the last two games because of a lower back injury. "'Mo' will go," HC Mike McCarthy said. Morency practiced the last three days without incident and doesn't think he will be limited Sunday. He also will probably handle kickoff returns. "Every day, it's getting better. I'm excited and can't wait to get on the field," Morency said.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Vernand Morency (GB) practiced fully on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Jameel Cook (HOU) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Fred Taylor (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) missed practice Wednesday and Thursday because of a groin injury but returned to participate at the beginning of Friday's practice. Brown remains confident he will play in Sunday's game despite a nagging groin injury. If Brown is limited or isn't at full strength, backup RB Sammy Morris likely will see an increased role against the Vikings. He says he will be ready to go. Morris said he has felt increasingly better as the season has gone on after being forced to completely recondition himself because of his substance-abuse suspension. Nick Saban did say the workloads for Morris and Travis Minor will likely increase.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) After re-aggravating a groin pull in the first quarter of Sunday's game, RB Ronnie Brown said he played most of the game at 70 percent. "It's not 100 percent, but I plan on playing," he said after he missed parts of Wednesday's practice. He did some light work on the side and is listed as questionable on the injury report. Brown said his injury limits his ability to get outside and turn corners. "It was more aggravated when I would kind of stride out a little bit," he said. "But as long as I was between the tackles, I was all right." Brown worked on the sidelines again on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) did not practice with the team on Wednesday. Instead, Brown, who is battling a groin pull, worked on the side and looked to be in decent shape. Brown has said he does expect to play this week versus the Vikings.

RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) suffered a groin injury during the team's Week 10 game. Head coach Nick Saban said that the team would manage the injury throughout the week. However, Brown's availability for Week 11 is currently uncertain.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Tony Richardson (MIN) may be finished for the 2006 season. On Wednesday Vikings HC Brad Childress indicated it was likely that Richardson, who broke his forearm in last Sunday's loss to the Green Bay Packers, was likely to be placed on injured reserve later this week. The Vikings plan to use TEs Jeff Dugan and Jim Kleinsasser could see time at fullback.

RB Tony Richardson (MIN) fractured his right forearm Sunday vs. Green Bay, and his status for Sunday's game in Miami is in question. Richardson's right thumb was broken in San Francisco, but he played through the injury against the Packers. HC Brad Childress said Richardson will not need surgery, but did say that the fullback's status will be determined by his comfort level with the injury.

*** Friday Update *** RB Chester Taylor (MIN) practiced on Friday. He has been upgraded to probable and is expected to play this weekend. He will be without FB Tony Richardson who is out with a broken arm and that hurts.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Chester Taylor (MIN) did not practice fully Thursday but the team is just resting him. He's expected to start.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Chester Taylor (MIN) did not practice fully on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Tiki Barber (NYG) had more comments regarding his sprained thumb. "I'm not worried about it, to tell you the truth," Barber said. "I played most of the game last week against the Bears after the injury. So it's not something that's entered my consciousness."

RB Tiki Barber (NYG) said that his sprained thumb is fine and it won't keep him from playing Week 11. "It's more a pain in the butt is what it is", said Barber.

*** Friday Update *** RB Brandon Jacobs (NYG) is unhappy with the NFL and plans to let them know about it. Jacobs revealed Friday that the league fined him between $5,000 and $10,000 for shoving a football underneath his jersey to celebrate a touchdown run against the Chicago Bears on Sunday night. Jacobs insists that he was not celebrating. He noted that when he puts the ball underneath his jersey to create a bulge around his stomach and then rubs it, he is acknowledging his wife Kimberly, who is pregnant. What confuses Jacobs is that he did the same thing after scoring a touchdown against Tampa Bay on Oct. 29, and the league and the officials did nothing. This time, he was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and later found a letter from the NFL waiting on a stool in front of his locker informing him of the fine. He would not disclose the exact amount of the fine. "I am appealing," said Jacobs, who was surprised that his actions violated the celebration rules. "I think it's unnecessary for them to do that and not give me a warning."

*** Friday Update *** RB Kevan Barlow (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Kevan Barlow (NYJ) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Kevan Barlow (NYJ) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend despite his injured calf.

RB Kevan Barlow (NYJ) emerged as New York's running back in Sunday's upset win over the Patriots. Barlow, who hadn't had a run over eight yards since week one, trudged through the mud for carries of nine, 11 and 12 yards en route to gaining 75 yards and a touchdown. Barlow said his playing time was more a matter of circumstance than anything else. "I think my opportunity to go out there was a little more because it ended up being the type of game where we needed to run the ball," he said.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Cedric Houston (NYJ) remains questionable with his knee injury that's kept him out of action.

*** Friday Update *** RB Zack Crockett (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Justin Fargas (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB LaMont Jordan (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Correll Buckhalter (PHI) sat out Friday's practice due to "flu-like symptoms" and was added to the team's injury report as probable. HC Andy Reid is holding out hope that his reserve running back will be rested and recovered in time for Sunday's game against Tennessee. "We are hoping that Buck' is going to be okay and this thing is going to work its way through and he'll be ready to go," Reid said. "It really hit him Wednesday and then Thursday he practiced, he was feeling okay. But this morning it was right back. "He just wasn't feeling very good this morning, so we backed off on him. We'll see how it goes." Reserve RB Ryan Moats would likely be activated if Buckhalter can not play. "There'd be a chance that if he (Buck) can't (play), Ryan would fill that spot," Reid said.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend despite his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** RB Dan Kreider (PIT) has been upgraded to probable for this weekend and is expected to play.

*** Friday Update *** RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) practiced on Friday but will be a game-time decision. With regards to Alexander and QB Matt Hasselbeck, HC Mike Holmgren will not say for sure how much playing time, if any at all, the players will get. To keep the 49ers guessing the Seahawks have listed them as game time decisions.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) practiced again Thursday and didn't have any setbacks. If all goes well with Friday's practice, he could start Sunday. There is a feeling though that he would see a lighter than normal workload as the team eases him back into the lineup.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) practiced well on Wednesday and appears ready to return to game action. Alexander seemed comfortable running and changing direction. However, his status for this weekend will depend greatly on how he feels tomorrow after this day of work. "Today was very successful," Alexander said. "It's all about what my foot can take. I think that's going to be the greatest test (when I ask for) 50 carries - which is probably what I will ask for when we get to Friday and I still feel good. We're still in a ‘we'll see’, but today was good."

RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) is expected to practice on Wednesday, HC Mike Holmgren said, and his availability for Sunday's game would depend on how things go from there. "For the past three weeks he has experienced very little pain," Holmgren said. "And then they've kind of stressed it a little bit and having him cut and do some of those things to see how that reacts. And it's my understanding that they're going to let him test this in practice because he does not feel any pain."

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Josh Parry (SEA) will not play this weekend due to his injured foot.

*** Friday Update *** RB Frank Gore (SF) practiced on Friday. He has been upgraded to probable and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Frank Gore (SF) was limited in Thursday's practice but that wasn't unexpected. Let's see how he's able to practice Friday as that will be the real indicator.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Frank Gore (SF) did not participate fully in Wednesday’s practice but “is fine” according to HC Mike Nolan. “Typically, we back off Frank anyway on Wednesdays, just because the game was just a couple days (ago),” Nolan added. “Frank will be probable for the ball game and I’m expecting him to play. We’ll see as the next couple days go.”

RB Frank Gore (SF) HC Mike Nolan said he expects Gore to play Sunday, although he could miss some practice time after suffering a concussion. "He said he felt a little lightheaded, but I think he'll be fine," Nolan said Monday.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Cadillac Williams (TB) said this might be the most frustrating season in his career with the exception of his sophomore season at Auburn. Williams accepted his part of the blame, admitting he's been trying too hard to make a big play and it is causing him to lose his concentration. "I'm just trying to do a whole lot, and my style is to take what the defense gives me. But with what's been going on, I'm getting a little bit out of my element," he said. Williams has been averaging just 15 carries a game compared to the 20 he received last season. He is averaging just 55.22 rushing ypg.

RB Ladell Betts (WAS) is ready to carry the load with Clinton Portis out. "When I heard it (Portis' hand injury) was a break, I just told myself mentally to prepare to carry the load for the rest of the season," Betts said. "With a break you never know. You can say it will take this amount of time, but it all depends on how fast you heal."

RB Clinton Portis (WAS) had three screws inserted into his broken right 4th metacarpal bone in his hand during a surgical procedure on Monday. The Redskins apparently will not risk further damage to Portis and plan shut him down for the season according to ESPN and the Washington Post. ESPN is also reporting that Portis will have surgery on his left shoulder. He could be ready in a month but with the Skins being 3-6 and not much hope for the playoffs, they felt the risk would be too great. The rushing duties will now be split between Ladell Betts and T.J. Duckett. Betts will be the team’s starting RB, HC Joe Gibbs said that Duckett will play a prominent role in the offense.

Wide Receiver

*** Friday Update *** WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) practiced fully on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend despite his injured hamstring.

WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) experienced some soreness in his right hamstring after Sunday’s game but is hopeful he'll be fine in a few days. HC Dennis Green said in his Monday press conference that he thinks Fitzgerald will be ready to play in week 11. "He should be able to play. I think he'll get a couple days rest. But when you get down to it, I think he'll be able to play," Green said.

*** Friday Update *** WR Ashley Lelie (ATL) To facilitate a trade from the Denver Broncos to the Falcons, wide receiver Lelie had to write a $220,000 check to satisfy a Broncos demand for repayment of the final year of his rookie signing bonus pro-ration. Lelie wrote the check but filed a grievance to reclaim that money. On Thursday night, according to a management source familiar with the case, Lelie was informed that an arbiter ruled in his favor and he might be able to get his money back.

*** Friday Update *** WR Derrick Mason (BAL) has been upgraded to probable for this weekend and is expected to play.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Derrick Mason (BAL) did not practice fully on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Josh Reed (BUF) did some individual work today and caught some passes and ran some routes, but he was not involved in any contact work. He should be close to returning to action next week.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Josh Reed (BUF) will not play this weekend due to his injured kidney.

*** Friday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) is still listed as questionable for the game this weekend with the Jets. However, he practiced for the third straight day on Friday and barring a setback is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) was injured on the first play from scrimmage in the Miami game two weeks ago. He missed last week's game against the Giants because of the bruised ribs. The Bears originally believed he would miss about a month. But he has healed much faster than even he expected. In fact, Berrian practiced Wednesday and said he didn't feel any pain. But he wasn't hit either, and whether he can withstand a hit, remains to be seen. He's listed as questionable. How much pain he can handle will likely dictate whether he can go Sunday. "I'm not going to play with fear," he said.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) practiced on Wednesday but is questionable for this weekend with his injured ribs.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Rashied Davis (CHI) practiced on Thursday and has been removed from the injury report.

*** Friday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) (concussion) was cleared Friday morning to appear on the field and he looks ready for Sunday's game at New Orleans.

*** Thursday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) did not practice on Thursday but continues to be listed as probable for this weekend’s game. Remember that he will get the neurological test Friday morning. Comments from HC Marvin Lewis: “He's a little sore still, but otherwise he's fine. Because of the concussion thing, that has to come on Friday.”

*** Wednesday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) did not practice on Wednesday but is expected to play this weekend after suffering a concussion last Sunday. Houshmandzadeh will undergo a final neurological test Friday morning to determine his final status for week 11.

WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) took a vicious hit from Chargers CB Marlon McCree in the fourth quarter and was helped off the field. He did not return, but said that he felt he could have finished the game, despite being noticeably woozy following the hit. "I don't remember getting hit but I remember everything else. I felt like I could have gone back in," Houshmandzadeh said.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Kelley Washington (CIN) will not play this weekend due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** WR Terry Glenn (DAL) practiced on Friday and remains probable for this weekend. Barring a setback, he is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Terry Glenn (DAL) practiced again on Thursday and looked good according to HC Bill Parcells.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terry Glenn (DAL) practiced fully on Wednesday and is listed as probable for this weekend. Remember however that he was listed as probable last week as well. His situation will be monitored closely right up until game-time.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Greg Jennings (GB) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Greg Jennings (GB) rested some on Wednesday but is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Jerome Mathis (HOU) practiced for the first time this season on Wednesday. Mathis, a Pro Bowl KR last season, has been on the PUP list since injuring his foot in the preseason. "I'm very confident that I'll be able to come back this year, I've just got to prove that to the coaches," Mathis said.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Aaron Moorehead (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Brandon Stokley (IND) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

WR Cortez Hankton (JAX) could see more time with the poor play of the Jaguar starting WRs. Especially Matt Jones. Unhappy with Jones' play, Del Rio inserted Hankton late in Sunday's game. He's caught three passes this season.

"Obviously Hankton makes a great catch [against the Texans]," coach Jack Del Rio said. "We've got to give him a few more reps and see if he's going to do that for us."

WR Matt Jones (JAX) after playing poorly Sunday, Jones was pulled in favor or Cortez Hankton. "Obviously Hankton makes a great catch [against the Texans]," coach Jack Del Rio said. "We've got to give him a few more reps and see if he's going to do that for us."

*** Thursday Update *** WR Ernest Wilford (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Marcus Robinson (MIN) practiced fully on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend. It looks like he’ll be a game-time decision.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Marcus Robinson (MIN) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Marcus Robinson (MIN) The Vikings have downplayed his importance to the offense, but they are 0-4 without Marcus Robinson on the field. And despite missing four games, Robinson has two more touchdown catches than anyone else on the team. "Any time you lose a guy like Marcus, you're going to feel the effects," Travis Taylor said. HC Brad Childress said Monday that Robinson would practice this week. However, on Wednesday he missed at least the team portion of practice.

WR Doug Gabriel (NE) fumbled after a 22-yard reception in the second quarter and didn’t see the field again. HC Bill Belichick was discreet about Gabriel’s absence. "We played all our receivers today," he said. "We played them all." Was Gabriel injured? "I don’t think he was injured," Belichick said. "No. No."

*** Friday Update *** WR Terrance Copper (NO) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Terrance Copper (NO) practiced again on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terrance Copper (NO) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) has been nursing a groin injury for several weeks. However, he practiced fully on Friday and is probable for the game vs. Cincinnati. It looks like he’ll play.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) practiced fully again on Thursday and has been upgraded to probable for this weekend. Barring a setback, he is expected to play.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) Barring a setback this week, Joe Horn said he plans to play Sunday. "I was ready to play Sunday against Pittsburgh, man," Horn said Monday. "I'm not 100 percent. But I've played at 60 percent before and was effective. I've played at 45 percent and was effective. So I was ready to play but it wasn't in the best interests of the guys who were a 100 percent. Terrance Copper was a 100 percent. Devery Henderson was 100 percent, and I wasn't. "I think it was a good decision that HC Sean Payton made to have me not play." Payton said Horn's status will be determined later this week. Horn practiced Wednesday and both the receiver and Payton anticipate the Saints' all-time leading pass-catcher will be on the Louisiana Superdome turf on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. "In Joe's case, hopefully we pick right up where he left off and get him back in the flow of things," Payton said. "It will be good to have him back, because he is someone who has made plays for us. Joe has good hands in tight traffic and is competitive."

*** Thursday Update *** WR Sinorice Moss (NYG) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend. HC Tom Coughlin had some comments on Moss (who has played only once this season). "He is going to have more extensive work this week," Coughlin said. "He will have more reps and more opportunities - building his confidence as well as the ability to evaluate him the next day to see that he is coming along. So that will be extended."

*** Friday Update *** WR David Tyree (NYG) was added to the injury report as questionable with a groin injury. Tyree did not practice on Friday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend despite his injured calf.

*** Friday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

WR Randy Moss (OAK) has commented on how his season is going and his inability to produce more. "Maybe because I'm unhappy, and I'm not too much excited about what's going on, so my concentration and focus level tends to go down when I'm in a bad mood," Moss said Monday. "So all I can say is, if you put me in a good situation and make me happy, man, you get good results." HC Art Shell said he "hates" to hear comments like that. "You're paid to play a game that you've played for many years and that you love and once you hit the field, you compete," Shell said. "That's the way I see it."

WR Jerry Porter (OAK) was in uniform Sunday but saw the field for just two plays. Nine different Raiders caught passes, but none of them were to Porter. Porter declined comment. "No. I didn't play," he said.

*** Friday Update *** WR Reggie Brown (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Reggie Brown (PHI) was back on the practice field Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout because of a hamstring problem. He is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Reggie Brown (PHI) sat out Wednesday's practice because of a hamstring injury he sustained in Sunday's win over Washington. He left the game for a short time but returned and finished the game. Brown is officially listed as probable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Sean Morey (PIT) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Malcom Floyd (SD) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Eric Parker (SD) practiced fully on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Arnaz Battle (SF) was scheduled to undergo surgery Monday on his broken hand, but he continues to practice and said he doesn't expect to miss any playing time, before or after the operation. Battle said he'll use a padded glove to protect the damaged hand.

WR Arnaz Battle (SF) played a majority of the team's Week 10 game against the Detroit Lions with a broken left hand. X-rays taken after the game revealed the injury. It is unknown if Battle will miss any game time as a result.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) will start for the team after the loss of David Givens according to HC Jeff Fisher (who also talked about his other WRs on Wednesday): “Brandon will step up and start. Bobby (Wade) will come inside. Courtney (Roby) and Roydell (Williams), and Jonathan (Orr) had a good day today. Fortunately we made the decision to keep seven (wide receivers). Jonathan has worked, and at some point hopefully this year we’ll get Jonathan involved as well. Brandon will step up and start opposite Drew (Bennett).”

*** Friday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) sat out practice for the third consecutive day on Friday and was downgraded to doubtful for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. Moss has been slowed by a hamstring injury in recent weeks. HC Joe Gibbs said Moss's availability would likely be a game time decision. "There's some slight hope and we'll hold out and see how he feels on game day, but we'll have to make a decision on that at the last second," Gibbs said. Moss sat out the Redskins' Week 9 game against Dallas but returned last week against Philadelphia. He caught three passes for 17 yards but admitted after the game he wasn't able to play at full speed. "I didn't make (the hamstring injury) worse, but it's just not getting better, so why should I keep doing something to it?" Moss said on Friday. "I have to make sure that I can be myself. Last week I wasn't myself and I don't want to be out there if I can't do that." ESPN reports that Moss (hamstring) has ruled himself out, but the team has yet to officially announce he is out this week. If Moss cannot play on Sunday, then Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randle El would likely start against the Buccaneers, with James Thrash coming in as the third wide receiver.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) is hurting. He has been fighting a strained left hamstring since Oct. 22. Moss missed practice much of last week but on Friday was upgraded to probable and played in Sunday's 27-3 loss to Philadelphia. "I'm sore. I'm sore, frustrated, all of the above. Put it like that," Moss said. "You have A, B and C, and I'm all of that." On Sunday, Moss did not run any of his signature wide receiver screens or slot screens, plays that maximize his ability to quickly change direction. He was severely limited to running crossing routes and finished with three catches for 17 yards.

Tight End

*** Friday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) practiced on Friday and barring a setback is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) practiced on Thursday. He is still listed as questionable for this weekend, but barring a setback is expected play.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) was held out of Wednesday’s practice due to knee soreness, and that is a strategy the team could employ for the remainder of the season according to HC Jim Mora. “Late in the season with Alge, we try to take a little load of him on Wednesdays,” said Mora.

*** Friday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) was limited in Friday’s practice and will be a game-time decision for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) did not practice fully on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Ryan Neufeld (BUF) will not play this weekend due to his injured foot.

*** Friday Update *** TE Robert Royal (BUF) was excused from practice Friday for a family matter. He will meet up with the team in Houston on Saturday.

*** Friday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) said Wednesday that he will have another arthroscopic surgery in the off-season to remove scar tissue from his ailing right knee. He had the surgery in January, but he still has pain and limps after each game. "I have to, man. I'm hurting," he said. Winslow is listed as questionable for Sunday, and he missed portions of practice Wednesday. Winslow participated fully in Thursday’s practice and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) sat out the team portion of Wednesday’s practice and is listed as questionable due to his injured knee. This has almost become routine for Winslow each week, but he continues to play well each Sunday.

*** Saturday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is obviously expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) practiced fully on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend. He will be a game-time decision.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) is listed as questionable for this weekend, but he went through the entire practice and said he felt "good" three days after jamming his thumb at San Diego. Alexander managed to play through that injury Sunday, making all six of his receptions after he injured the digit. "It's more annoying than anything else -- just something I have to deal with," he said. "Luckily it is nothing major -- knock on wood."

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Tory Humphrey (GB) will not play this weekend due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** TE David Martin (GB) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE David Martin (GB) rested some on Wednesday but is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Bryan Fletcher (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) After declaring on Monday that Gonzalez wouldn’t play Sunday against the Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium, HC Herman Edwards backed off slightly, saying there is a slim chance. Gonzalez didn’t practice again Thursday, and Edwards didn’t hold out much hope. “If we do that, we’re going to have to sit somebody else down,” Edwards said. “If he gets nicked, then all of a sudden he’s down and you’ve lost two guys. That’s always hard. You’ve got to make sure he can make it through the game.” However, Gonzalez did not practice on Friday and is still listed as doubtful. It's possible he could play, but the team isn't sounding very optimistic right now.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend due to his injured shoulder.

TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) sprained his left shoulder on one of the final plays of Sunday’s 13-10 loss. Gonzalez won’t play in Sunday’s game against Oakland, and he probably won’t be available for Thanksgiving night against the Broncos. Without Gonzalez, the Chiefs no longer have a receiving threat at tight end. He will be replaced by TE Jason Dunn. After Dunn, the Chiefs don’t have another true tight end. TE/FB Kris Wilson has played the position, but he’s now occupied at fullback. Wilson, WR Dante Hall, RB Michael Bennett or WR Rod Gardner could get more playing time. The Chiefs are sorting through their options.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Richard Owens (MIN) is toning down his celebrations to avoid being fined. He's also trying to stay focused on improving, he says. After his 51-yard touchdown catch at Arizona, Owens lifted his arms out to the side and then put his hands together over his head signaling his initials, T.O. "That's all I can do right now without getting fined," Owens said. "Maybe I can get the crowd involved and they can follow suit. Right now I'm trying to be focused and trying to play better for the team and play better for my team."

*** Friday Update *** TE Daniel Graham (NE) is still listed as questionable with his ankle (as he was last week) but is expected to play this week.

*** Thursday Update *** TE David Thomas (NE) has been added to the injury report as probable with a groin injury.

*** Friday Update *** TE Ernie Conwell (NO) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Ernie Conwell (NO) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Randal Williams (OAK) HC Art Shell said after Sunday's 17-13 loss to the Denver Broncos that he was going to consider making some changes to his team. The first salvo was fired with the announcement that Randal Williams has replaced Courtney Anderson as the starting TE for Oakland.

*** Friday Update *** TE Vernon Davis (SF) practiced fully on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend. He will be a game-time decision.

TE Vernon Davis (SF) has not played since Week 3 because of a broken fibula but could return this week according to HC Mike Nolan. "I think there's a good chance we'll get him back," Nolan said. His status will depend on his ability to practice.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Chris Cooley (WAS) said he has been playing with a separated shoulder since Week 4 this season when he hurt it in a 36-31 loss to Jacksonville. He has missed little practice since and has scored a touchdown in three of the last four weeks. "I think it's fine," Cooley said, who also shrugged off occasional pain and swelling when his shoulder gets hit.

*** Friday Update *** TE Christian Fauria (WAS) has been moved from questionable to out for Sunday's game vs. the Buccaneers. Fauria has missed practice all this week due to an ankle injury.

Kicker

PK Kris Brown (HOU) missed two field goal attempts yesterday and has now missed at least one in three of Houston's last four games.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Mike Nugent (NYJ) HC Eric Mangini said he would think twice about asking PK Mike Nugent to try any long field goals, especially if there are exigent conditions, after watching CB/PR/KR Devin Hester's return. "That would definitely come into consideration when you've got a returner sitting back there," Mangini said. "The risk/reward is pretty high."

*** Friday Update *** PK Rob Bironas (TEN) practiced on Friday but remains questionable for this weekend. However, there are a couple of signs that point to him playing: 1) The team has not signed a replacement PK, and 2) HC Jeff Fisher has barely mentioned Bironas in press conferences this week.

Offensive Line

*** Friday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) C Nick Leckey practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) T Todd Weiner practiced on Friday and barring a setback is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) G Matt Lehr returned to practice on Wednesday after serving a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's steroids policy. He practiced as a back-up to guard P.J. Alexander, who replaced his during his suspension. "Our play at left guard has improved and been a positive for us," offensive line coach Tom Cable said. "We struggled a handful of times last week in protection, but they weren't busts — we didn't have free runners on the quarterback. In the run game, we certainly have upgraded ourselves there, and [Lehr] knows that. He knows he's got to come back and earn it."

OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) Since OG Matt Lehr was suspended four games for violating the league's steroid policy, the Falcons have not had a 100-yard rusher. The Falcons are hoping his return will help their running game. The Falcons have until Saturday to decide whether to use a one-week roster exemption on Lehr, according to HC Jim Mora.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) G Chris Villarrial is out for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans due to a severe right ankle injury. Villarrial could be headed to IR. "He's definitely not playing this week and there's a good chance he probably won't play for the rest of the year," HC Dick Jauron said Wednesday. "We'll see where that goes as we move forward."

*** Thursday Update *** OL Carolina Panthers (CAR) C Justin Hartwig missed practice again Thursday and will miss Sunday's game. Hartwig has missed most of the season with a groin injury and is still considering surgery.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Cincinnati Bengals (CIN) RT Willie Anderson returned to practice after missing yesterday because of a shoulder injury. But the Bengals will field their 10th different starting lineup in the trenches this week with RG Bobby Williams is unable to play. The Bengals had to shuffle their injury-depleted offensive line Thursday after Williams had an appendectomy, which will sideline him for a few weeks. HC Marvin Lewis said Williams became ill on Wednesday, and he had an appendectomy overnight. Third-year lineman Stacy Andrews will make his first NFL start Sunday against New Orleans. Williams is the second Bengals player to have an appendectomy this season. Second-string quarterback Anthony Wright had one on Oct. 13 and was unavailable for the next three games.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Cincinnati Bengals (CIN) C Rich Braham will not play this weekend due to his injured knee.

T Levi Jones dressed for the first time Wednesday since injuring his knee Oct. 15 against Tampa Bay and undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery that week to repair torn cartilage. He participated in some early individual drills but didn't participate in team drills. He is questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL Detroit Lions (DET) C Blaine Saipaia practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) RT Mark Tauscher says his injured right groin is feeling better just three days after being injured at Minnesota. But HC Mike McCarthy listed Tauscher as "out" this week against New England and said team doctors will wait 10-14 days before revisiting the issue. Rookie RT Tony Moll will start for Tauscher until further notice.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) T Mark Tauscher will not play this weekend due to his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** OL Houston Texans (HOU) T Ephraim Salaam practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Houston Texans (HOU) G Fred Weary was back at practice Wednesday, a day after he was shot with a Taser and arrested during a traffic stop. Weary was released from Houston's Central Jail on $1,000 bond and faces a misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest and search, said Houston police officer Johanna Abad.

OL Houston Texans (HOU) G Fred Weary was shot with a Taser before being arrested Tuesday after a traffic stop. Weary was pulled over at 1:00 PM. about six miles from Reliant Stadium and transported to jail. Houston Police officer Gabriel Ortiz said he "possibly faces charges of resisting arrest." The 29-year-old was being held at Houston's Central Jail on Tuesday evening, but had not yet been charged with a crime and no bond had been set, a jail official said. The jail official did not know whether Weary had an attorney. "We're aware of the situation regarding Fred Weary," said Tony Wyllie, Texans' vice president of communications. "At this time, we're gathering all the information and getting all the facts." According to the police report, the incident began when officers noticed a Chevy Impala SS driving in an area near Reliant Stadium where police are on alert due to criminal activity. They noticed the driver "looking very suspicious" as he looked back and forth at the police several times. Weary was pulled over after police followed the car and noticed that it did not have a front license plate. When officers asked for Weary's license he angrily asked why he had been pulled over, police said. Police said they asked him for his license three times before he produced it, during which time he became increasingly agitated. Weary was asked to step out of the vehicle when he began to reach for something. After exiting the car he continued to be verbally combative toward the two officers and refused their commands, police said. It was then that he pushed the officer away and was shot with a Taser after stepping toward the officers. He was arrested without further incident after he was shot with the Taser.

Also, rookie T Eric Winston will replace Zach Wiegert in the team’s starting lineup.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Indianapolis Colts (IND) T Ryan Diem practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

G Ryan Lilja practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

OL Jacksonville Jaguars (JAX) T Khalif Barnes apologized Tuesday for his arrest over the weekend and promised to avoid further legal trouble. Barnes was arrested early Saturday on drunk driving charges and benched for Sunday's 13-10 loss to Houston. It was the third arrest in as many months for the Jaguars (5-4), the second involving speeding. Barnes apologized, "They don't deserve to have their franchise getting dragged through the mud like this," he said.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Kansas City Chiefs (KC) T Kevin Sampson will not play this weekend due to his injured foot.

G Brian Waters will not play this weekend due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Miami Dolphins (MIA) G Jeno James will not play this weekend due to his injured knee.

OL Miami Dolphins (MIA) G Jeno James is expected to miss at least one game after having surgery to remove torn cartilage in his right knee Tuesday. James, in his seventh NFL season, was injured in Sunday's victory over Kansas City. He underwent arthroscopic surgery on the same knee Oct. 24, but returned without missing any games. Kendyl Jacox will replace James, who started each of the first nine games.

*** Friday Update *** OL Minnesota Vikings (MIN) G Steve Hutchinson practiced on Friday. He has been upgraded to probable and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Minnesota Vikings (MIN) G Steve Hutchinson did not practice fully on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update ***