Week 5 Players in the News

*** Saturday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) will be a gametime decision Sunday. We'll have official word for you Sunday morning about an hour before kickoff as to whether it's Culpepper or Joey Harrington starting. Stay tuned to our Sunday online updates. If the Dolphins sit Daunte Culpepper for Sunday's game, it won't be because of the quarterback's performance during Friday's practice. While the session was closed to the media before team drills began, a source said Culpepper "took a lot of snaps in practice and looked good" Still, Dolphins HC Nick Saban refused to publicly name Culpepper or backup Joey Harrington as his starter.

Running Back

*** Saturday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) will be a game time decision. Unfortunately, it's the 4 PM game and there likely won't be any word until about an hour prior to game time. That's too late for most people to turn in line ups. Westbrook seems more likely to play than his teammate Donte' Stallworth but understand that he's a risk. We're very cautious here as Westbrook was expected to play last week and did not.

Here is what Eagles Insider Dave Spadaro writes Saturday night on the Eagles' official website: "Whether Westbrook plays, I don't know. Nobody knows. There is no hidden agenda here, no secret motives or plans. Westbrook has to prove in the pre-game period that he can run and cut and push off that leg and play to the level at which he has been such a strong force in his career.

We wait. It's the calm now, and tomorrow is the fury. I know you are all on pins and needles about his condition and about this game. I wish I had something more definitive for you. I don't. The Eagles don't."

Wide Receiver

*** Saturday Update *** WR Keyshawn Johnson (CAR) took a shot at Randy Moss Friday: "Randy Moss wanted out of Minnesota? Oh well," Johnson said. "Four years ago, he was the best wide receiver in the NFL. Now you can't get a pack of gum for him."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Braylon Edwards (CLE) plans to use Panthers cornerback Chris Gamble Sunday the same way he did when the two were in college. "I destroyed Gamble every time I played him," said Edwards. "If he happens to match up on me, I'll treat him just like I treat anybody else - I'm going to try and destroy him." Edwards’ two-game against Gamble is 17 catches for 237 yards and two TDs plus another 87-yard TD nullified by a holding call.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Donald Driver (GB) will be a game time decision but we're not very optimistic as he seemed to be getting worse as the week went on instead of getting better. We'll have official word for you Sunday morning in the online updates.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Koren Robinson (GB) and the NFL Players Association have filed a grievance against the Minnesota Vikings, seeking a significant portion of the three-year, $12.7 million contract he signed with the team in March. The Vikings released Robinson on August 26. "We believe it's a difficult decision to justify even on skill and conduct, based on comments the club made on Koren's significance to the team," attorney David Cornwell said. "Our view is, they simply were punishing him."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (PHI) will be a game time decision. Unfortunately, it's the 4 PM game and there likely won't be any word until about an hour prior to game time. That's too late for most people to turn in line ups. Anything can happen and Stallworth has been tough to nail down lately but the word on Saturday night is that we're very leery of him being able to go Sunday.

Tight End

Kicker

*** Saturday Update *** PK Martin Gramatica (IND) was released by the team earlier this week which had everyone feeling better about Adam Vinatieri. Saturday, the team re-signed Gramatica raising lots of questions about Vinatieri's status. We'll have official word for you about an hour before the Colts game Sunday morning on our Sunday Morning updates online.

*** Saturday Update *** PK Adam Vinatieri (IND) was thought to likely be able to kick Sunday but the team re-signed kicker Martin Gramatica on Saturday. He was listed as probable Friday but has been moved to questionable. This has us worried about Vinatieri for Sunday. The good news is that the Colts play in the 1 PM game and we'll have the official word on his status about an hour before gametime Sunday on our Sunday Updates online.

Offensive Line

*** Saturday Update *** OL Detroit Lions (DET) Although HC Rod Marinelli was pleased with the play of rookie OL Jonathan Scott the past 2 weeks, he will start RT veteran Barry Stokes at Minnesota. Stokes is still nursing a sore hamstring. "I told him, 'Don't be sprinting down the field on me, now. Just jog down the field,'" Marinelli said.

*** Saturday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) HC Mike McCarthy said on Friday that guard Daryn Colledge and guard Jason Spitz would be starting for the team in Week 5.

*** Saturday Update *** OL Oakland Raiders (OAK) HC Art Shell believes offensive coordinator Tom Walsh's system is sound and the team's offense will improve. The Raiders are currently last in the league in average yards per game and have only scored 27 points in three games. Shell said, "I don't feel I have to defend anything. We're going to do what we think is best. This offense is not so much different from a lot of offenses in this league. But when you lose, you don't win the games, people have a tendency to pick on you, and I understand that. That goes with the territory. But when we start winning, and we will, then the tone will change. And you'll wonder why we'll be doing a lot of the same things we've been doing. This system isn't so much different than a lot of other systems. I don't know where all that comes from."

*** Saturday Update *** OL Tennessee Titans (TEN) G Zach Piller will be out of the lineup for an indefinite period of time with a left ankle injury.

Defensive Line

*** Saturday Update *** DL Albert Haynesworth (TEN) The mood in Nashville is that Haynesworth might be done with the Titans. The team is going after a portion of Haynesworth's signing bonus. Stay tuned to see how this plays out.

Linebacker

*** Saturday Update *** LB Karlos Dansby (ARI) is still not 100 percent since returning from a toe injury that forced him to miss the entire preseason and the season opener. "I think he's playing hard and making good effort, but he is not as fast as he was before," head coach Dennis Green said. "He has not got his body to top speed yet, and hopefully he will be soon."

*** Saturday Update *** LB Teddy Lehman (DET) says he feels he will be ready to return once he is eligible to come off the PUP list after the week six game. The Lions will then have a three-week window to decide Lehman's status (active roster or injured reserve).

Defensive Back

*** Saturday Update *** DB Gary Baxter (CLE) was downgraded Saturday from questionable to out because of a strained left pectoral muscle and won't travel with the team for its game Sunday at Carolina. It will be the third straight game Baxter has missed with the injury. He missed 10 games last season with a torn right pectoral.

*** Saturday Update *** DB Leigh Bodden (CLE) has missed the last two days of practice with an ankle injury and is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game. He did, however, participate on a limited basis in Friday's practice. He has spent much of the week wearing a protective boot. But Bodden said he's been rehabbing, and being on the practice field Friday was a positive sign.

*** Saturday Update *** DB Greg Blue (MIN) already is developing a reputation for big hits. In fact, last week's fourth-quarter hit on WR Roscoe Parrish topped ESPN's "Jacked-Up" segment. "I love watching big hits," Blue said. "That's part of the big excitement of football right there. I love watching other guys trying to take somebody's head off."

*** Saturday Update *** DB Antoine Winfield (MIN) says he is ready to play. His injured left quadriceps passed its first test Friday at practice, and he said it wouldn't keep him from starting this Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions. The Vikings list Winfield as questionable. "I felt it every now and then, (but) I definitely should be able to deal with the consequences," he said. "If I couldn't play, I would definitely let them know. I'll be out there."

*** Saturday Update *** DB Ricardo Colclough (PIT) will miss the rest of the season because of a neck injury. Colclough, a third-year player, was placed on the team's injured reserve list, the Steelers said Saturday. Rookie cornerback Anthony Madison was promoted to the active roster.

*** Saturday Update *** DB Brian Kelly (TB) has come to realize that his turf toe injury isn't going to get much better, so he might as well play. "I've practiced on it for a couple of days, and it looks like it's something I can work with," said Kelly, who has missed the past two games. "So we're going to go out and give it a go. It's not going to get any better (during the season). It's just a matter of performing at the level I need to perform at and doing what I need to do." Officially, Kelly remains questionable.

General Team News

*** Saturday Update *** TM New York Giants (NYG) HC Tom Coughlin said veteran Brandon Short and rookie Gerris Wilkinson will see time at weakside linebacker in place of injured starter Carlos Emmons, who is out with a strained pectoral muscle. Coughlin would not say which of the two would start, but one player said it will be Short. The player requested anonymity because all personnel information is supposed to come from Coughlin.

All the news

Quarterback

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

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Brett Favre (GB) expects to play Sunday against St. Louis despite still feeling the effects of a possible slight concussion and pinched nerve in his neck. The quarterback hasn't thrown a football since he was hit hard in Monday night's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Favre was considering participating in the Packers' practice session on Wednesday even though he feels some pain when he turns his head a certain way. He spent time in the steam room on Tuesday but can't do much else to heal. "It's a pinched nerve and maybe a slight concussion, but there's nothing you can do for it," Favre said Wednesday.

QB Brett Favre (GB) suffered a stinger to his shoulder during the Monday night game, but the injury is not believed to be serious.

QB Trent Green (KC) is feeling better but is out for Week 5.

*** Friday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) is not a lock to start Sunday when the Dolphins face the Patriots. HC Nick Saban said the team has not decided whether to play Culpepper or backup QB Joey Harrington. "This is not an issue relative to results or anything that has happened in games," said Saban. "It's a physical, medical, ability issue. Can the guy do what he needs to do to be successful? If we were 4-0 right now, we'd be having the same conversation."

*** Thursday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIA) did not take part in the team drills on Thursday. He has been added to the injury report as probable with a shoulder injury. Joey Harrington filled in for him. Keep a close eye on how he practices Friday as that will be key. If Culpepper is unable to go, it's possible that Harrington could get the start.

*** Friday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) practiced all week and will start as normal this weekend.

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

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Aaron Brooks (OAK) will not play this weekend and could be out another week after this one. As poorly as Andrew Walter has played, Brooks will likely start once he's healthy.

QB Aaron Brooks (OAK) said on Monday that he will likely not play in Week 5 against the San Francisco 49ers with his injured shoulder. Brooks also did not sound hopeful about playing in Week 6 against the Denver Broncos either.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Donovan McNabb (PHI) had a press conference and it inevitably led to questions about Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell Owens. McNabb did leave a not-so subtle shot headed toward his former receiver. "I think you guys understand we are not competing against one player," McNabb said. "One guy doesn't make a team. Break a team maybe." McNabb added, ""It's a division game. We need it. Anything else, I personally don't care."

QB Bruce Gradkowski (TB) will make his first start in Week 5 replacing the injured Chris Simms.

*** Friday Update *** QB Chris Simms (TB) believes it was a hit suffered during the first quarter of the Week 3 game against the Carolina Panthers that could have led to his spleen condition. "Personally, I know when it started," said Simms, who had the wind knocked out of him and thought he might have cracked a rib. "It was a ball I threw away toward the Carolina sidelines in the first quarter. That was definitely the start of the problem. Now, did my spleen rupture and start bleeding at that point? I don't know about that. I really don't. I was in significant pain from that point on, and ... I took a good number of hits after that. I'm sure that didn't help the situation." Simms absolved the club's medical staff from any wrongdoing while he was in pain during Week 3. Simms believes he might be able to return to the football field this season despite being hospitalized to have his spleen removed after several vicious hits during Week 3. "I feel if I can play, why not play?" said Simms, who will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. "I can't hurt my spleen again. It's one less thing I can hurt. I feel like I'm on the right track, my body is responding well. If I can get back into shape, I'm never going to turn down a chance to play football. I love it too much." A decision on Simms’ season will likely be made in a couple of weeks.

Running Back

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

*** Friday Update *** RB Nick Goings (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Brad Hoover (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) practiced on Thursday and is questionable for this weekend although he's expected to start. Look to see if he can go Friday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

RB Reuben Droughns (CLE) didn't want to say anything about it; but he put on his shirt very gingerly in the locker room, and it was clear his shoulder was still hurting. Miraculously, he managed 100 yards, including some important yards on the final drive to secure the victory.

*** Friday Update *** RB Lawrence Vickers (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

RB Cedric Cobbs (DEN) might miss a couple more games with the sprained ankle he suffered on Sept. 17. Cobbs didn't practice Monday.

*** Friday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) did not practice fully on Friday and remains questionable for this weekend. He'll likely be a game time decision as to whether he plays. Vernand Morency will likely see a good bit of time even if Green does play.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) was not able to practice fully Thursday. His status for this week's game is shaky right now. The team seems to have confidence in Vernand Morency.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) Coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday he expects Green's hamstring to be healed enough to allow him to play this weekend, noting he believes Green's hamstring troubles are a residual effect of coming off the severe quadriceps injury from last season. "Frankly I was surprised he didn't play Monday night," McCarthy said. "I'll be surprised if he doesn't go this week."

RB Ahman Green (GB) missed Monday Night's game when his hamstring flared up. The team will evaluate him this week so watch to see how he practices.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Vernand Morency (GB) only was able to manage 1 yard on four carries at the end of Monday night's game vs. the Eagles, but Packers HC Mike McCarthy was pleased with the overall performance. "He had an opportunity to have a 100-yard-plus game, and he was close," McCarthy said. "For his first time out of the gate handling the load, he touched the ball 30-plus times, I thought he did a nice job." McCarthy said the only negative regarding Morency was his fumble, which was officially charged to QB Brett Favre. "He got a little excited and reached for the football," McCarthy said.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB DeDe Dorsey (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to be available to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Derrick Wimbush (JAX) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Michael Bennett (KC) will not play this weekend. Dee Brown will take his place as the #2 RB behind Larry Johnson.

RB Michael Bennett (KC) was placed on the inactive list for the Week 4 games but hadn't been on the injury reports. This team is all about Larry Johnson right now.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Sammy Morris (MIA) returned to practice on Wednesday after serving a four game suspension. Morris could play Sunday against the New England Patriots. "I told RB coach Bobby Williams that I'll be ready to go and do my part."

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Derrick Ward (NYG) will not play this weekend.

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

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Cedric Houston (NYJ) will not play this weekend.

RB Cedric Houston (NYJ) suffered a hyper-extended left knee in the third quarter of Sunday's 31-28 loss. Houston is expected to be out two to four weeks. Veteran RB Derrick Blaylock, who was deactivated in favor of Houston the past two games, will likely be activated this week.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Curtis Martin (NYJ) shows up every day to Weeb Ewbank Hall, attends his positional meeting, and rehabs his injured knee. But that doesn't mean he's not helping the team. Behind the scenes, he has emerged as a mentor to rookie RB Leon Washington. "I just think Leon's a player with tremendous talent," Martin said. "What stands out most to me is his instincts. That's what you look for in a running back, someone who runs to daylight without thinking about it. That's the type of player he is." Jets HC Eric Mangini has confidence to keep increasing Washington's workload, from no carries in the opener to one to seven to nine vs. the Colts. The work won't decrease for a while, since Cedric Houston should be sidelined a few weeks. Martin's unselfishness is legendary. But don't be mistaken, Martin's No. 1 objective is getting back on the field. He's on the PUP list, but he's eligible to practice in two weeks. Once he begins, the Jets have three weeks to decide whether to activate him or put him on injured reserve. Martin, 33, won't comment on his prognosis, but the odds of him playing this season aren't good.

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

*** Friday Update *** RB Reno Mahe (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

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

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Reno Mahe (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) did not participate in the practice on Thursday, which is something he was doing last week before it was decided he shouldn't play against the Packers. Westbrook continues to nurse a bone bruise in his right knee that has bothered him for three weeks. Westbrook missed practice for the third straight day on Friday, and HC Andy Reid said he was day-to-day. Westbrook continues to have right knee inflammation and is still listed as questionable. Correll Buckhalter and Ryan Moats will carry the load if Westbrook is unable to play.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) did not practice on Thursday and remains questionable for this weekend’s game. According to the team's official website, offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg is preparing as if Westbrook will play Sunday.

"You have to go in and game plan like you're going to have him," Mornhinweg said. "Otherwise, if you have him, all of a sudden you're scrambling late to get some work in with him and get some things in for him. You go in like he is going to play."

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) did not practice on Wednesday but is expected to play this weekend according to HC Andy Reid. Reid reluctantly has acknowledged that Westbrook's injury is a bone bruise, which might involve cartilage damage. Dr. Art Bartolozzi, former team orthopedist for the Eagles and the Flyers, said Tuesday that while he doesn't know the specifics of Westbrook's case, it sounds pretty familiar. When a knee suffers a bone bruise, Bartolozzi said, the covering articular cartilage, the smooth, glistening, sliding surface at the end of a bone, tends to flake or peel off and create inflammation. The first treatment is rest, which the Eagles now have tried. The second is draining fluid that develops because of the irritation, which the Eagles also have tried. The third would be a cortico-steroid injection, to mitigate the irritation and cut down on the fluid being produced. We don't know if the Eagles have tried that. The next step would be an arthroscopic cleanout. Recovery time could be anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, Bartolozzi said, depending on how much work is necessary. Bartolozzi emphasized that he wasn't saying Westbrook needs surgery, that he can't say that without examining him. "I'm concerned about a knee that constantly swells,'' Bartolozzi said. "That indicates subtle damage to the cartilage or joint lining.''

RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) said his right knee hurt enough to keep him off the field Monday night, and there is some serious concern that this could be a lingering problem. A team source said Westbrook had his knee drained a few weeks ago, and it has not been ruled out that he will have that procedure done again. Westbrook said Friday that he was getting better. So it was surprising that he was unable to play Monday. One theory is that the Eagles are saving Westbrook for Sunday's NFC East showdown with the Cowboys, but that does not dismiss the fact that Westbrook has been questionable for three straight weeks. For his part, HC Andy Reid does not believe the injury is worse than the team thought: "When you have the bone bruises there is always the chance that there is something going on with the cartilage and that's why we have been holding him out," Reid said. "But we think he is going to be alright this week. We'll see how the inflammation stays out of there. It is out of there right now and hopefully it stays out of there." Reid also added that he does not expect Westbrook to practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** RB Najeh Davenport (PIT) practiced Friday and should be able to play this week if the team calls on him.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Najeh Davenport (PIT) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

RB Najeh Davenport (PIT) was injured in practice Monday and limped off the field with an ice bag wrapped around his lower right leg. Davenport has dressed but not played in the past two games since he signed with the Steelers on Sept. 8. HC Bill Cowher should update Davenport's injury today. If he cannot go, RB Duce Staley would likely dress for only his second game.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Willie Parker (PIT) has carried the football 29 and 31 times in two of the first three games. His workload could be heavy again Sunday. RB Najeh Davenport has a strained calf and has yet to play. If he is unable to suit up against the Chargers, RB Duce Staley likely would take his spot. Staley has yet to dress for a game this season. HC Bill Cowher said he is not concerned with the high number of carries for Parker as much he is with the punishment he actually absorbs in a game. There is not always a correlation between the two.

*** Friday Update *** RB LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) says he will not be overloaded this season. "I won't have 370 carries," Tomlinson said. "I guarantee that." Tomlinson is on pace for 411 carries. Tomlinson also explained that the plan this season has been to let RB Michael Turner be the one to bang away and power up the middle to drain the clock. "Putting Michael in keeps me from having to carry the whole load. I think it's smart," said Tomlinson.

*** Friday Update *** RB Steven Jackson (STL) is quickly establishing himself as a dangerous all-purpose running back. He has produced 531 yards — 367 rushing and 164 receiving. His closest pursuer, San Francisco's RB Frank Gore, trails by 71 yards. "To be able to get him involved some in the passing game gives us the ability to use him in two ways," HC Scott Linehan said. "He does a lot with the ball once he gets it. So, I think that the sensible thing is to figure out more ways to get it in his hands."

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Paul Smith (STL) will not play this weekend.

RB Paul Smith (STL) was kept overnight in a hospital on Sunday as the result of a concussion suffered in the team's Week 4 game against the Detroit Lions. His roommate in the hospital Sunday evening was Lions offensive lineman Frank Davis, who was injured in the collision with Smith on the field. Rams head coach Scott Linehan said that Smith was also being checked for the possibility of small fractures in the bones around his eyes. "It wasn't bad enough they ended up knocking each other out, they had to spend the night together," Linehan said.

*** Friday Update *** RB Travis Henry (TEN) was stretched out, taped up, and ready to go last weekend before kickoff with the Cowboys. It was then that he was told he was being deactivated in favor of RB Chris Brown and rookie RB LenDale White. The Titans had promised before the season they would rotate their running backs. They apparently didn't handle this situation very well, as the news shocked the veteran. Fisher said Monday that they would go through the week before deciding the starter for Indianapolis (4-0) this Sunday. Someone will be inactive in this game, as well.

RB LenDale White (TEN) HC Jeff Fisher said he has not made a decision on the running back order, but it appears that rookie RB LenDale White could be inching upward after gaining 39 yards on nine carries. “That’ll be determined,” Fisher said of the possibility of White getting a start. “We’re going to evaluate them this week. We’ll name a starter and a backup."

Wide Receiver

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

*** Thursday Update *** WR Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) partially participated in Thursday’s practice but is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Mark Bradley (CHI) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Chris Henry (CIN) The Cincinnati Bengals will be without WR Chris Henry for the next two games after the NFL suspended him without pay for violations of the league’s personal conduct policy and substance abuse policy. He's also been fined $20,000. Henry also can't practice for the next two weeks. He will miss next week's game at Tampa Bay and the Oct. 22 home game against Carolina.

*** Friday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Terrell Owens (DAL) and a college classmate, Courtney Parker, have co-written a children's book titled "Little T Learns to Share." Dallas-based BenBella Books is scheduled to release the book in November, according to the Friday, Oct. 6 edition of the Dallas Morning News. In the book, the title character refuses to share his football until he realizes it's difficult to play by himself. The book is the first in a series called "T.O.'s Timeout Series," which will release new titles next year.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terrell Owens (DAL) is not on the team’s injury report, so barring the unexpected he will start this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Mike Williams (DET) has shown improved practice habits recently, according to HC Rod Marinelli. "He's just going out and handling his business the correct way," said Marinelli, who also noted coaches have been "very encouraged" by Williams' performances in practice. "He's doing a good job right now. He's getting better and better. His practice speed is good. He's really been very precise right now. It's exciting."

WR Mike Williams (DET) Roy Williams made another pitch for Mike Williams to get some playing time as a third or even a fourth receiver. "Why would you have a 6-5 receiver on the sideline?" Roy Williams said. "I think he could help us out a lot. "He's done a great job in practice for the last three weeks."

*** Friday Update *** WR Donald Driver (GB) missed practice Wednesday and returned for practice Thursday. But Friday, he was absent while undergoing further diagnostic tests on the rib injury he suffered Monday night. HC Mike McCarthy said he’d not received the results of the tests before he met with reporters early Friday afternoon, but having Driver miss the last day of practice of the week to undergo tests isn’t a good sign. “It’s uncomfortable, so we’re just being proactive and sent him for some further tests,” McCarthy said.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Donald Driver (GB) practiced Thursday and it's looking like he'll be able to start Sunday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Donald Driver (GB) is questionable with injured ribs for week 5.

*** Friday Update *** WR Robert Ferguson (GB) did not practice on Friday and will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Robert Ferguson (GB) missed practice Thursday and is looking very doubtful for Sunday's game.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Robert Ferguson (GB) suffered an injury that HC Mike McCarthy said was severe enough that it would make him doubtful for the game Sunday. McCarthy said there was no fracture in the foot as Ferguson feared after the game Monday night, but gave no other details.

WR Robert Ferguson (GB) was on crutches in the Packers' locker room late Monday night with a right foot injury that he feared might be broken. "I hope it's not (broken)," Ferguson said. "But from the looks of it, it is." The top of Ferguson's foot was swollen extensively.

*** Friday Update *** WR Koren Robinson (GB) will be elevated to the third wide receiver role for Week 5 since WR Robert Ferguson nursing a foot injury. "This is a real big opportunity for me," Robinson said earlier this week. "I'm looking to do something spectacular."

*** Thursday Update *** WR Koren Robinson (GB) was back practicing with the Packers on Thursday. Robinson will not have to serve his sentence until after the season and will be allowed to serve part of it under a work-release program. With No. 3 receiver Robert Ferguson doubtful with a foot injury, Robinson will likely play a bigger role in the offense this Sunday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Koren Robinson (GB) was sentenced to 90 days in jail for violating probation in a drunken driving case. Judge Robert McSeveney sentenced Robinson to 90 days in jail, and said he could spend half of it on work-release. Robinson must comply with the sentence by next March 1, when another court hearing is scheduled. It's possible the league may also impose a penalty.

*** Friday Update *** WR Brandon Stokley (IND) practiced Thursday, and it was the first time he has gone through a full practice in the last three weeks. He practiced again on Friday and said after practice he plans to play Sunday. He has missed three of the Colts’ four regular-season games this season with a back injury. “I feel good,” Stokley said, “...Really good today – back-to-back (days), and it wasn’t sore.”

*** Thursday Update *** WR Brandon Stokley (IND) practiced Thursday and now says he's "very optimistic" he'll be able to play Sunday.

“It’s feeling better. I know I’m going to have to deal with some pain down there. I’m going to have to fight through some of that stuff.

“Hopefully, it will feel better every day I’m out there working on it.”

“I think he’s going to be OK,” Colts Head Coach Tony Dungy said. “If he comes back in tomorrow and is able to practice, I think he’ll be able to go.”

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

*** Friday Update *** WR Terrence Wilkins (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Matt Jones (JAX) did not practice on Thursday and has been downgraded to out for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Matt Jones (JAX) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

WR Matt Jones (JAX) is nursing a hamstring injury now after he battled a groin injury for much of last week. Watch his availability for practice very closely.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Ernest Wilford (JAX) will move into the starting lineup along with Reggie Williams now that Matt Jones is out.

*** Friday Update *** WR Dante Hall (KC) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

WR Dante Hall (KC) returned a punt 60 yards for his 11th career return touchdown last week. He is third all-time behind Brian Mitchell (13) and Eric Metcalf (12).

*** Friday Update *** WR Chad Jackson (NE) practiced on Friday and says he expects to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Chad Jackson (NE) practiced partially Thursday. Let's see what he does Friday as that will likely determine his status for Sunday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Chad Jackson (NE) was limited in Wednesday’s practice and is questionable for this weekend’s game.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Jonathan Smith (NE) was released by New England.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Devery Henderson (NO) practiced Thursday and is expected to play Sunday.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Devery Henderson (NO) was back in practice Wednesday after missing Sunday's game with a bruised shoulder. Henderson also practiced on Thursday and is listed as questionable, but he should play against Tampa Bay on Sunday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Devery Henderson (NO) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Plaxico Burress (NYG) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Sinorice Moss (NYG) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) partially participated in Friday’s practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) injured his right arm or wrist on the final frenzied play of the Jets' loss to the Colts but is expected to play against the Jaguars. He did limited work in practice yesterday and is listed as questionable with a lingering calf injury. The arm or wrist injury isn't on the injury report. Coles, in his seventh season, hasn't missed a game because of injury since his rookie season. "Do I look okay?" Coles said yesterday before practice. "You see me getting dressed don't you? I'll be out there (on Sunday)."

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) did not practice on Wednesday and remains questionable for this weekend’s game.

WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) looked like he was seriously injured after the Colts game Sunday as he lay on the field writhing in what looked to be pain. But he says he's ok so watch to see how he practices.

*** Friday Update *** WR Tim Dwight (NYJ) partially participated in Friday’s practice and will be a game-time decision for this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Randy Moss (OAK) According to Randy Moss’ agent, the flamboyant WR has not officially requested a trade out of Oakland. But Moss did have this to say recently on a local radio show, "If me moving elsewhere is what my future holds then I'm ready to see it. If they feel trading me and getting me out is the best thing to do, I've been traded once. Two won't hurt." Former teammate and current Miami Dolphins QB Dante Culpepper also made no official comment, but a source close to Culpepper said Wednesday that the quarterback would "love" to play with Moss again if the opportunity presented itself.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Randy Moss (OAK) sounded like he wouldn't mind being traded. ``I don't want to be the downfall, or the negative or the cancer of the team,'' Moss said. ``That's definitely not my goal to do. If they feel trading me and getting me out is the best thing to do, I've been traded once, two won't hurt.''

WR Randy Moss (OAK) continues to vent his frustration towards the organization. Moss said during a radio interview Monday that he is not concerned with the team's struggles this season, as the organization, in Moss' opinion, does not appear committed to winning. "I'm not concerned about football right now," Moss said. "I'm loving life. I don't see anybody else having a concern, so why should I? There are negative things going on now. I'm not the only one unhappy."

*** Thursday Update *** WR Jerry Porter (OAK) HC Art Shell dodged questions on the status of Jerry Porter, answering, "I don't know" when asked if the disgruntled WR had addressed any of the issues Shell said he needed to take care of. Porter has been inactive all season and neither party has shown any signs of wanting to reconcile.

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

*** Thursday Update *** WR Hank Baskett (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Hank Baskett (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

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

*** Thursday Update *** WR Reggie Brown (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend. He was upgraded to probable.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Reggie Brown (PHI) practiced on Wednesday but is listed as questionable for this weekend.

WR Reggie Brown (PHI) suffered a shoulder injury Monday night but is expected to practice this week according to HC Andy Reid.

*** Friday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (PHI) missed practice again Thursday and Friday with a hamstring injury that doesn't seem to be getting better. HC Andy Reid called his status "day-to-day", and OC Marty Mornhinweg indicated that he doesn't expect Stallworth to play Sunday. Asked if the Eagles' game plan for Dallas includes Stallworth, Mornhinweg said there were a few plays in there for Stallworth “just in case” he's able to go. Reid said on Thursday if Stallworth doesn't play, Greg Lewis and Hank Baskett would both work with the first group depending on the situation. Baskett started against the 49ers, and Lewis had two long touchdown catches against the Packers.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (PHI) did not practice on Thursday and the team sounds worried about his availability for this week. According to the team's official website, offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg appeared concerned about Stallworth's chances of getting on the field Sunday.

"We do have a few things there for him just in case," Mornhinweg said.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (PHI) did not practice on Wednesday and is questionable for this weekend.

WR Donte Stallworth (PHI) aggravated his hamstring injury in Monday night's game. Keep a very close eye on how he's able to practice this week. Stallworth is a guy we're already leery of when it comes to hamstrings but we don't like to see anyone re-aggravate a hamstring injury.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Hines Ward (PIT) has been bothered by his hamstring since preseason and, it just won't heal. Ward predicts it will bother him the rest of the season. "My hamstring's not going to be 100 percent this year," he emphatically announced Wednesday. Ward is off to the slowest statistical start in his career, not counting his rookie season when he did not start a game. He refused to blame his hamstring for the slow start and said that while it won't return to full health this season, it's close.

*** Friday Update *** WR Eric Parker (SD) suffered a hamstring tweak and was added to the injury report as questionable. He missed practice Friday.

WR Eric Parker (SD) suffered a knee contusion during Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens. He later returned to the game, and is expected to be okay and practice with the team on Wednesday.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Drew Bennett (TEN) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Drew Bennett (TEN) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR David Givens (TEN) could miss several weeks when it was revealed that he had surgery on the thumb injury he's been battling.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR David Givens (TEN) will not play this weekend. Brandon Jones will likely start for him.

*** Friday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) will start against the Colts on Sunday after David Givens had surgery on his left thumb. Givens had a pin placed in the thumb, and could miss several weeks.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) should get the start with WR David Givens out. Said coach Jeff Fisher, "Brandon (Jones) will step up. He’ll step up and replace David. Beyond that we don’t need to make any adjustments. We’ve been playing the guys, we’ve been rotating them. We’re fortunate that we have depth at the position."

Tight End

*** Friday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) partially practiced on Friday and was added to the injury report as questionable with a thigh injury. The team will likely see how he can work tomorrow.

*** Friday Update *** TE Daniel Wilcox (BAL) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Robert Royal (BUF) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Robert Royal (BUF) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Mike Seidman (CAR) injured his knee in the win over Tampa Bay on Sept. 24, but HC John Fox claimed they didn't know it was a torn ACL until "the last couple of days." Seidman is not yet on injured reserve. "There are different options and we're sorting those out," Fox said Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** TE Desmond Clark (CHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Desmond Clark (CHI) did not practice on Thursday. However he seems to be in at least as healthy as he was last week (when he played), so barring a setback he is expected to play this weekend as well.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Desmond Clark (CHI) did not practice on Wednesday and remains questionable for this weekend’s game.

*** Friday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) practiced partially on Friday and is expected to play this weekend. He'll likely be limited in practice each week.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) was limited in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable for this weekend. Although he's expected to start. Look for him to follow this limited practice schedule for much of this year.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) was limited in Wednesday’s practice and is questionable for this weekend’s game.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Donald Lee (GB) missed practice Thursday with a knee and looks doubtful for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Ben Utecht (IND) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Ben Utecht (IND) missed practice again Thursday and still looks like he won't play Sunday.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Ben Utecht (IND) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Jermaine Wiggins (MIN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Jermaine Wiggins (MIN) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Daniel Graham (NE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Daniel Graham (NE) was limited in Wednesday’s practice and is questionable for this weekend’s game.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Jeremy Shockey (NYG) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

TE Jeremy Shockey (NYG) won't be benched for comments that the New York Giants were outcoached in a recent loss to the Seattle Seahawks. After first refusing to answer the question, HC Tom Coughlin said Tuesday that Shockey would start against the Washington Redskins this weekend if his sprained right ankle was OK. "We'll see about his health and his condition," a miffed Coughlin said Tuesday after practice. "If he can go, he'll start." RB Tiki Barber, who criticized Coughlin after a playoff loss to Carolina last season, was certain Shockey would not be benched, even before the coach spoke. "I don't think there were any tensions between Jeremy and the coach," Barber said. "I think Jeremy said some things that he probably regretted and that were not accurate, and it was done after it was done." On the injury front, Shockey practiced fully and barring a setback is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Ryan Krause (SD) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

TE Jerramy Stevens (SEA) is running and should be back for practice next Monday as he tries to return from his sprained left knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Vernon Davis (SF) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** TE Dave Moore (TB) did not practice on Friday and is at best a game-time decision for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Erron Kinney (TEN) will not play this weekend.

Kicker

*** Friday Update *** PK Adam Vinatieri (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Adam Vinatieri (IND) practiced again Thursday and is looking like he'll be good to go Sunday. For further indication of how the Colts are feeling about Vinatieri, the Colts released backup kicker Martin Gramatica.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Adam Vinatieri (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

PK Adam Vinatieri (IND) is expected to play in Week 5 after missing the past two weeks with a groin injury. “Adam maybe could have kicked (in Week 4),” HC Tony Dungy said. “We were probably wise in not kicking him. It was more my feelings. It took everything we had to keep him out. We should have good conditions to kick this week,” Dungy said.

*** Friday Update *** PK Ryan Longwell (MIN) returned to practice on Thursday and Friday after missing Wednesday with strep throat. Longwell said he came down with the infection Tuesday and had a high temperature of 102.1 degrees, but he said he was feeling much better and will be fine for game day.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Ryan Longwell (MIN) missed Wednesday’s practice with strep throat but is expected to play this weekend.

Offensive Line

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) The offensive line of the Arizona Cardinals has come under fire recently and OT Leonard Davis accepts his part of the blame. "It's on us," Davis said Tuesday. "As a group, it's always been we make or break the team and right now, we are breaking the team." Refusing to comment on statements made by HC Dennis Green or on his teammates, Davis instead focused on himself. "I watch myself on film and I don't see the same person I have seen in the past. I've got to figure out what I have to do to get better and help all the other guys also because as a leader, if I'm not playing the way I am supposed to play, they can't count on me."

OL Baltimore Ravens (BAL) LG Edwin Mulitalo will miss the rest of the 2006 season with an arm injury, HC Brian Billick said today. The eight-year starter tore his triceps in yesterday's win over the San Diego Chargers. He will have surgery today. Jason Brown will replace Mulitalo for the rest of the season. A fourth-round pick in 2005, Brown has played in nine career games including one start.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) G Chris Villarrial did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) G Chris Villarrial did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) RG Chris Villarrial is expected to miss approximately three weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain during the team's Week 4 game against the Minnesota Vikings. Offensive lineman Duke Preston is expected to replace Villarrial in the line-up.

*** Friday Update *** OL Carolina Panthers (CAR) C Justin Hartwig practiced on Friday but will be a game-time decision for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Carolina Panthers (CAR) C Justin Hartwig practiced on Wednesday but is listed as questionable for this weekend.

OL Cleveland Browns (CLE) The Cleveland Browns announced on Monday that they have waived offensive lineman Alonzo Ephraim.

*** Friday Update *** OL Dallas Cowboys (DAL) C Andre Gurode practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Dallas Cowboys (DAL) C Andre Gurode will sport a tinted visor to protect himself of any further injury to the seven cuts he received when Titans DT Albert Haynesworth kicked Gurode in the head without his helmet on. There is still a chance Gurode will suite up and play this weekend at Philadelphia, although he did not practice Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** OL Detroit Lions (DET) G Rex Tucker did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

G Ross Verba did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Detroit Lions (DET) G Frank Davis will not play this weekend.

*** Saturday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) HC Mike McCarthy said on Friday that guard Daryn Colledge and guard Jason Spitz would be starting for the team in Week 5.

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

G Charlie Johnson practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

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

C Jeff Saturday practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

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

G Dylan Gandy practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

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

G Jake Scott practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL Jacksonville Jaguars (JAX) G Chris Naeole practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Kansas City Chiefs (KC) T Will Svitek did not practice on Thursday and will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Kansas City Chiefs (KC) LT Kyle Turley is receiving treatment on his back, injuries to which forced him out of football the last two years. HC Herman Edwards said in his weekly press conference that he didn't know if Turley would play Sunday vs. the Arizona Cardinals.

*** Friday Update *** OL Miami Dolphins (MIA) G Jeno James practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Miami Dolphins (MIA) The Miami Dolphins are already on their third starting right guard, and now may have issues with their other guard. LG Jeno James missed practice on Wednesday morning with an undisclosed right leg injury. James rode the stationary bike during practice.

*** Friday Update *** OL New England Patriots (NE) T Ryan O’Callaghan practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL New York Jets (NYJ) T Anthony Clement practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

G Adrian Jones practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

G Pete Kendall partially participated in Friday’s practice and remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL Oakland Raiders (OAK) T Robert Gallery practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL San Diego Chargers (SD) T Leander Jordan did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL San Francisco 49ers (SF) G Larry Allen did not practice on Friday and will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL San Francisco 49ers (SF) G Larry Allen practiced on Wednesday but is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL St. Louis Rams (STL) OT Orlando Pace stepped up his activity in practice Thursday and Friday by participating in team drills. He remains questionable on the injury report. "I think I'm progressing," Pace said. "Just comparing this week with this time last week, it's 100 times better. No headache. No pain. I feel good this week."

*** Thursday Update *** OL St. Louis Rams (STL) OT Orlando Pace might be in for Sunday's game. Pace practiced Wednesday for the first time in over a week, although he was held out of some drills. "I got some work in and now I just want to see how I react," Pace said. "But everything looked fine." "I feel a hundred times better this week," said Pace, who is listed as questionable. Pace practiced again on Thursday and appears to be on track to play.

*** Friday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) OT Jeremy Trueblood started the final 20 games of his career at Boston College at left tackle. On Sunday, the rookie will make his NFL debut--at right tackle. "It's difficult in the sense that your whole body is just like muscle memory," Trueblood said of flip-flopping tackle spots. "...I never really learned how to pass-block out of a right-hand stance. That was my only major adjustment, which is fine now." Trueblood, the team's second-round pick, started three preseason games while Kenyatta Walker rested a sore right knee.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) RG Davin Joseph returned to practice on Wednesday after missing substantial time with a knee injury.

Also, the team signed OT Donald Penn off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) The Tampa Bay Buccaneers placed offensive right tackle Kenyatta Walker on injured reserve because he has a right knee injury. Walker's been battling this injury for much of the last three seasons, even undergoing a pair of arthroscopic surgeries. Another ‘scope’ during the bye week revealed that the damage to the knee was greater than previously thought and thus Walker underwent season-ending surgery to correct it.

*** Saturday Update *** OL Tennessee Titans (TEN) G Zach Piller will be out of the lineup for an indefinite period of time with a left ankle injury.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Tennessee Titans (TEN) G Zach Piller will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** OL Washington Redskins (WAS) G Randy Thomas practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Washington Redskins (WAS) G Randy Thomas partially participated in Thursday’s practice but is expected to play this weekend.

Defensive Line

*** Friday Update *** DL Kendrick Clancy (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Kendrick Clancy (ARI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL John Abraham (ATL) practiced for the first since suffering a groin injury in the Falcons' week 1 win over the Carolina Panthers. Abraham indicated he hoped to play against the New York Giants on October 15. "I think I practiced well. I'm still a little stiff. I'm still a little behind, but I think I'll be OK if I just stay here and work out and get back into the old John Abraham shape."

*** Friday Update *** DL Terrell Suggs (BAL) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Adewale Ogunleye (CHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Nicholas Eason (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Nicholas Eason (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Orpheus Roye (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Orpheus Roye (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Courtney Brown (DEN) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Courtney Brown (DEN) is making progress toward getting back on the playing field, but he is still not expected to play this weekend.

DL Courtney Brown (DEN) participated in a full practice Monday. It was the first time since early in training camp. That doesn't necessarily mean Brown will play Monday night against the Ravens, but it marked an important step in his recovery from a lingering knee injury. "He looked good out there," Denver HC Mike Shanahan said. "If there aren't any setbacks, he may be able to play. We'll just have to see. But he looked good."

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Antwan Peek (HOU) has missed the last two games with a groin injury, but says he will play against Dallas in two weeks. "I feel good, and I could play this week if we had a game," Peek said after practice Tuesday. "I'm tired of not being able to contribute."

*** Friday Update *** DL Raheem Brock (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Dwight Freeney (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Dan Klecko (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Dan Klecko (IND) did not practice on Wednesday and is questionable for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Ryan LaCasse (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Montae Reagor (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Darrell Reid (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Corey Simon (IND) has been diagnosed as likely having polyarthritis, a condition that has now shelved him for the 2006 season and will enable the team to not pay his $2.5 million base salary. Simon was placed on the non-football injury-illness list on Thursday by the Colts, who cited federal privacy laws for not disclosing the specific nature of the illness. Simon was told he likely has polyarthritis after undergoing tests by specialists from the Mayo Clinic who cannot attribute the condition to a football-related injury, such as the arthroscopic knee surgery he had in August, the sources contend. Polyarthritis is any type of arthritis which involves five or more joints. Polyarthritis is most often caused by an auto-immune disorder such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, and Lupus erythematosus but can also be caused by infections. It is recommended that individuals with this affliction sleep on a firm mattress and a flat pillow. Polyarthritis may be experienced at any age and is not gender specific.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Corey Simon (IND) will not play this season due to a mysterious illness. The club placed Simon on the non-football injury list, officially ending his season. Expected to be major part of the Colts' run defense, the 300-pound Simon has not played or practiced since banging his knee in early August. Simon underwent arthroscopic surgery later in summer. However, Colts president Bill Polian said Thursday that Simon's knee injury and illness are not connected. "Fortunately, we are told it is not life-threatening, but it has severely limited Corey's ability to condition, practice or play and has been debilitating for him," Polian said. "We reached this decision reluctantly and only after extensive tests were run by our medical staff and many outside medical specialists. Corey has shown some improvement in recent days, but none of the medical personnel we consulted believe he can safely return to football in the near future."

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Corey Simon (IND) did not practice Wednesday and will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Josh Thomas (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Josh Thomas (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Marcus Stroud (JAX) did not practice on Thursday and will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Marcus Stroud (JAX) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Marcellus Wiley (JAX) did not practice on Thursday and will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Marcellus Wiley (JAX) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Dave Ball (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Bobby Hamilton (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Kimo von Oelhoffen (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Kevin Huntley (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Lance Johnstone (OAK) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Albert Haynesworth (TEN) The NFL Players Association will not appeal Albert Haynesworth's five-game suspension for stomping on the head of Dallas center Andre Gurode. Haynesworth announced through his agent on Tuesday that he would not appeal the suspension. NFL Players Association executive director Gene Upshaw discussed the suspension with Haynesworth and others, including NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. "We represent both players here, and it is best for all concerned that we let the suspension stand," Upshaw said Wednesday. "While Roger has expressed a willingness to meet with Haynesworth and I expect that meeting to take place, there will be no formal hearing where the suspension will be challenged." That leaves the next move to Gurode, who still has the option of filing criminal charges or a civil lawsuit. His agent Kennard McGuire said Monday that Gurode would talk with his family before deciding what to do. But Gurode was not in the Cowboys' locker room when reporters were allowed in, and McGuire did not return a message left by The Associated Press on Wednesday. Gurode did not practice Wednesday. Dallas coach Bill Parcells said he expects his center can practice Thursday. The coach did not think Gurode was having vision problems and could wear a helmet despite the cuts on his forehead.

DL Albert Haynesworth (TEN) was suspended five games for kicking Dallas Cowboys C Andre Gurode in the face during Sunday's game. The NFL said Monday that Haynesworth was suspended for flagrant unnecessary roughness. The suspension, which is without pay, is effective immediately. Haynesworth will be eligible to return to the field Nov. 19 for the Titans' game at Philadelphia.

*** Friday Update *** DL Jesse Mahelona (TEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Andre Carter (WAS) went the first three games without a sack and did not have much of an impact in those games. By Week 4, last Sunday against Jacksonville, Carter finally produced his best game of the season, sacking quarterback Byron Leftwich in the first quarter and pressuring him twice more later in the game. Carter finished with four tackles and, overall, the Redskins sacked Leftwich four times in the game.

*** Friday Update *** DL Cornelius Griffin (WAS) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Cornelius Griffin (WAS) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** DL Joe Salave'a (WAS) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Joe Salave'a (WAS) partially participated in Thursday’s practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

Linebacker

*** Friday Update *** LB James Darling (ARI) did not practice on Friday and will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Adalius Thomas (BAL) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Takeo Spikes (BUF) practiced fully on Friday. HC Dick Jauron admitted that seeing him practice today was a good sign, though he wouldn't say how good Spikes' chances of playing are for Sunday. Jauron said Spikes will remain questionable and again be a game time decision.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Takeo Spikes (BUF) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Dan Morgan (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday and will not play this weekend.

LB Dan Morgan (CAR) is not considering retirement because of a history of concussions, including one that has kept him of the Panthers' past three games, HC John Fox said Monday at his weekly press conference. Morgan has continued to attend team meetings and was on the sideline for Sunday's win against New Orleans, but he has not spoken to reporters since he was injured, leaving Fox as the only source of information about his condition.

*** Friday Update *** LB Leon Joe (CHI) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** LB David Pollack (CIN) will know in a couple of months whether the cracked bone in his neck is healing properly or whether he'll need career-ending surgery to fix it. In his first interview since the injury, Pollack said Thursday that he has to wear a halo brace for two more months. If the cracked vertebra has healed by then, he can start rehabilitation and eventually resume his career. "If it heals by itself, then I'm fine," he told writers in a conference call from his Cincinnati-area home. "It's just a matter of how it heals. If it doesn't heal properly, then I'll have to have surgery." Surgery would involve fusing vertebrae in the neck, a career-ending procedure. "One doctor said it: Not very many people walk away from a broken neck twice," Pollack said. "And that's something that kind of hits home, you know. "When you fuse two vertebrae together, the likelihood for injury is greatly increased."

*** Friday Update *** LB Willie McGinest (CLE) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Willie McGinest (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable for this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Willie McGinest (CLE) was limited in Wednesday’s practice and is questionable for this weekend’s game.

*** Friday Update *** LB Bobby Carpenter (DAL) will play against the Eagles on Sunday. HC Bill Parcells once again urged patience with Carpenter. "I see a young player that needs to get a foothold on what's going on," Parcells said. "Right now, we're trying to get him involved." Carpenter has been inactive in previous games.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Alex Lewis (DET) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Abdul Hodge (GB) did not practice on Friday and will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Abdul Hodge (GB) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Ben Taylor (GB) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Gary Brackett (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Freddie Keiaho (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Nick Greisen (JAX) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Rich Scanlon (KC) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Ben Leber (MIN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Carlos Emmons (NYG) will not play this weekend.

LB Carlos Emmons (NYG) will miss Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins with a chest injury. Emmons, who was hurt in the loss to Seattle on Sept. 24, created a stir in the locker room on Tuesday, saying he might play this weekend. The original diagnosis called for him to be sidelined about three weeks with a slightly torn pectoral muscle. After saying he would not question Emmons, HC Tom Coughlin said the 11-year veteran would miss the game. Either Rookie Gerris Wilkinson or veteran Brandon Short will replace him. It will likely be Wilkinson because Short, who had knee surgery in the offseason, has been inactive for the first three games. "Gerris has made good progress," Coughlin said. "He really has. He's been steady and when given an opportunity to play, he's played OK. He's done a good job, so we'll see."

*** Friday Update *** LB Brandon Short (NYG) It now appears that Short will start in place of the injured Carlos Emmons rather than the rookie Gerris Wilkinson (as was reported earlier this week). However, a formal announcement has not been made.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Gerris Wilkinson (NYG) will be making his first NFL start on Sunday. With LB Carlos Emmons sidelined for at least a few games due to a strained pectoral muscle and veteran backup LB Brandon Short still seemingly limited recovering from knee surgery, Wilkinson gets the chance to start.

*** Friday Update *** LB Matt Chatham (NYJ) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (OAK) did not practice on Friday and will be a game-time decision for this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** LB Matthew McCoy (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Matthew McCoy (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Matthew McCoy (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update ***