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Week 6 Players in the News

by Clayton Gray, Exclusive to Footballguys.com

The Latest News

Quarterback

*** Saturday Update *** QB Steve McNair (BAL) is a game-time decision for this weekend so definitely check our Sunday Morning Updates online before starting him. We'll have official word well before game time. "It's just tightened up," HC Brian Billick said of McNair's back. "I'm not sure the groin didn't lead to some tightness in the back. We'll have to see how he feels at the end of the day today, Saturday and Sunday -- game-time decision." McNair spoke briefly in the locker room on his way to treatment. Asked if he would be available to start, McNair said, regarding his back: "It's OK. We'll see. If I can't go, then we've got a good backup in Kyle." Billick emphasized that there was no quarterback controversy. "Steve McNair is now and will be my starting quarterback for as long as he can go," Billick said.

*** Saturday Update *** QB David Carr (CAR) was downgraded to questionable for Sunday's game. The team had a cross country flight and Carr's back tightened up on the trip. It's always a bad sign when players move down the injury report this late in the week. He'll now likely be a game time decision. If he can't go, the team would likely turn to newly signed veteran Vinny Testaverde.

Running Back

*** Saturday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) will likely be a game time decision Sunday at Kansas City even though he's listed as probable. It's not a definite that he'll play, but after practicing for the first time since injuring a hamstring at Seattle on Sept. 23 Johnson could get the clearance to return to the lineup against the Chiefs. HC Marvin Lewis said Friday that Johnson was healthy but that whether or not he plays or how much he plays won't be decided until Sunday. Mark Curnutte of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports that if Johnson plays, he'll likely share time with Kenny Watson who ran well in Johnson's absence last week.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Jamal Lewis (CLE) has been ruled out for this weekend's game. Jason Wright will start for the team.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Travis Henry (DEN) looks to have at least three more weeks before his possible one-year suspension is resolved. League sources confirmed Friday that Henry officially has been informed, in writing, by the league's Management Council that he is in a violation of the league's drug policy. Any player who has a positive test is sent what other players have called a "violation letter." By league rules, Henry has five days after receiving the letter to then inform the league if he intends to appeal the decision. A league spokesman said Friday the league would have no comment on Henry's case because of confidentiality rules in the drug-testing program.

From the league's perspective, Henry's "B" urine sample - players give two samples when tested - would not have to be tested in order for its disciplinary procedures to begin. The testing of the "B" sample is a usual option for the player, but not required in the policy. Henry filed a lawsuit in Suffolk (N.Y.) County court last month to keep the league from testing his "B" sample. The league got that case moved to federal court in Brooklyn, N.Y., and is trying to get the lawsuit thrown out. Henry's lawyers are trying to keep the case in state court. But the league's testing policy shows the player may ask for the "B" sample to be tested - within two days of notification of a positive test from the "A" sample - but that the disciplinary policy, the sources said, is set in motion by the "A" sample.

That is independent of Henry's court case in New York, where Henry is challenging parts of the league's drug policy, including how his "B" sample would be tested. Henry's lawyers and the league's lawyers were informed this week by a federal judge they have two weeks to prepare motions and another week to prepare responses to those motions. Henry also would be given time to prepare for an appeal hearing with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, or someone Goodell designates to oversee the hearing, so the court case and his appeal hearing with the league could conclude about the same time, near the end of this month or early November.

Henry will be able to practice and play for the Broncos during the court case and appeal process. If he wins his court case, he is expected to keep playing; the league would likely then appeal that ruling. In his court case, Henry is claiming that the NFL violated its own substance abuse policy by not allowing his experts to be on hand when the urine sample was tested. The NFL, according to the sources, is contending the rules are clear that players can have their own expert present for testing, as stated in the league's CBA, but that the expert cannot be affiliated with a lab or testing service and that the expert Henry wished to use was affiliated with a lab. Henry is believed to be disputing other aspects of the testing procedures as well. He is expected to argue that the test result showed too low a threshold for Henry to have used illegal drugs himself rather than a positive test that resulted from secondhand inhalation. Henry, sources said, was told he tested positive for marijuana.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Ahman Green (HOU) pronounced himself 100 percent ready to start against Jacksonville after Friday's practice, then added, "I'd better be." Green realizes the Jaguars' rush defense is playing very well. "I had to knock all the rust off in practice," said Green, who last played in the early moments of the second quarter against Indianapolis. "If I (didn't), Jacksonville would. I've played them before. I know what type of defense they have. They're hard hitting." HC Gary Kubiak agrees that Green will play. "To have Ahman back in the backfield is big," Kubiak said. "We'll play him normal, but naturally you're not going to go give him the ball 40 times. We'll monitor what he's doing."

*** Saturday Update *** RB Fred Taylor (JAX) is listed as questionable on the team's latest injury report, and he might not play Sunday against the Houston Texans. Taylor strained his groin muscle sometime between Sunday's victory at Kansas City and Wednesday's practice. Taylor said he initially didn't feel the injury when it occurred. Taylor practiced on a limited basis Thursday and Friday. "I know I could go if I wanted," Taylor said. "But we don't have any more off weeks. So we've talked about needing to let it heal up as opposed to taking a chance. I'll get out there, stretch and see how it feels. At practice today, I was able to explode on it. I think they're gonna leave it up to me, but we'll see."

*** Saturday Update *** RB Laurence Maroney (NE) has been called a game-time decision this week but the Boston Herald is reporting Saturday night late that they have sources saying he will miss Sunday's game.

Karen Guregian of the Herald writes: "Even though Patriots [team stats] coach Bill Belichick listed him as a "game-time decision," and many elements pointed toward a return to the field, running back Laurence Maroney [stats] will not play today in the showdown of unbeatens, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.

"While Maroney made the trip with the team yesterday, he will miss his third straight game with a groin injury, the source indicated."

This isn't official but the Herald is obviously a solid source. Look for more Sammy Morris again.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Najeh Davenport (PIT) was charged with domestic violence, child endangering and unlawful restraint in a custody-related confrontation with the mother of his 5-year-old son. Chief Michael McGrath said Thursday night that Davenport would be given a chance to surrender for a court appearance on the misdemeanors. If convicted, he could face a sentence of 14 months.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) HC Mike Holmgren hears the frustrations and complaints from Seahawks fans that star RB Shaun Alexander isn't running hard enough. He hears the criticism as well that Alexander has been too tentative, tiptoeing into the line while gaining just 93 yards rushing with an average of less than three yards per carry over the last two games. Seattle's coach has been telling Alexander the same thing -- for eight years. "Would I like him to hit the holes a little quicker, get it up in there? I've said that from Day One," Holmgren said Friday. "He's known that for, how many years has he been here? But at the same time, his style has produced some wonderful things."

*** Saturday Update *** RB Earnest Graham (TB) could be looking at 20-30 carries this weekend. HC Jon Gruden says Graham should be ready for a busy day. "When Earnest comes out of the game, who's going in?" asked Gruden on Friday after the team's morning practice. "We've got some inexperience surrounding him right now. He's in tremendous physical shape and as much as he can take he'll get. He's excited about it. We're confident he can do a good job. We're taking the training wheels off. He's ready to roll, man."

Wide Receiver

*** Saturday Update *** WR Mark Clayton (BAL) is not looking to make excuses, only to find solutions. The Ravens receiver has had a disappointing start to the season which is is looking to turn around. Slowed by injuries since the preseason and hampered by a pass offense that doesn't take advantage of any deep-threat potential, Clayton acknowledges that his personal struggle is overshadowed by the team's goal. "That's your base, that's your foundation," Clayton said of the leg and foot injuries. "Any position on the field, you can't do too much with your feet not being right. It's frustrating and tough. I just thank God that I'm making progress and feeling better and just taking steps. I'm about 85% healthy right now."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Andre Johnson (HOU) may be kept out of the lineup until after the Texans bye in week ten. "When it happened, I thought not needing surgery meant that after just a little rehab I'd be ready to get back out there," Johnson said. "But it's not like that. It's a learning experience for me, the first time I've been through something like this." Early projections had him returning for Tennessee next week, but that seems unlikely. A safer bet might be Nov. 18 against New Orleans according to the Houston Chronicle.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Jacoby Jones (HOU) will resume returning punts and serve as the fourth receiver. "Everybody's ready to go," Kubiak said. "Jacoby looked really good today, (as did) Ahman. So we're getting a couple faces back. That's nice. Looks like we're OK." He will be behind Kevin Walters, Andr� Davis and David Anderson, all of whom, Kubiak said, deserve to keep their spots in the rotation based on the way they've stepped up during the Texans' recent injury epidemic.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Sidney Rice (MIN) WR coach George Stewart doesn't like comparisons, but asked to take any receiver he's coached in the past and compare him, based on age and experience level, to Vikings rookie Sidney Rice, Minnesota's wide receivers coach came up with a pretty weighty association. "He is very close to Terrell Owens at this particular stage in his career because Terrell was a gangly guy when he first came to us in San Francisco," Stewart said. "Sidney obviously is gangly, tall. In terms of work ethic, wanting to understand, wanting to apply things that he's learned on the field, Sidney's very similar to T.O."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Torry Holt (STL) said Friday that he has 'come to grips' with the prospect that his knee problems are likely to persist as long he plays football for a living. "So I just take it day-to-day and year-to-year and hopefully put myself in a position where I can start a season and finish a season," Holt said. Holt has had surgery on his right knee twice, most recently this past January. He still has pain and swelling if he overdoes it, so he's taken several Wednesday practices off this season. "I'm just managing the knee. Everything is on schedule and I'll be able to play on Sunday."

*** Saturday Update *** WR Antwaan Randle El (WAS) insisted on Saturday morning that he will be able to play this weekend against the Packers. HC Joe Gibbs said a final decision will be made tomorrow morning after the wide receiver warms up with his teammates. Randle El has shined as a starter this season, averaging 18.8 yards per catch, and had seven receptions for 100 yards before halftime against the Detroit Lions on Sunday before the hamstring injury forced him out of the game. "It's up to me of course, and if I've got any pain then I'm not going to push it," Randle El said. "But I don't expect to have any. I'll come out and test it Sunday morning and I expect to be ready to go."

Tight End

*** Saturday Update *** TE Marcus Pollard (SEA) was back at practice after missing time with a sore knee. And the veteran tight end thinks he will be ready for Sunday night's game against New Orleans. Pollard said he is at about 75 percent of full health. "And there'll be like another 10 percent I'll get from adrenaline on game day," Pollard said. "I'm planning on playing -- unless they take a look at the film (of practice) and say 'You don't look well enough."

Kicker

*** Saturday Update *** PK Kris Brown (HOU) had a lighter-than-normal Friday but says his sore planting foot is much improved over where it was a week ago. "I couldn't walk on it without a lot of pain," Brown said, "and I'm walking fine now." He didn't foresee the need for another needle full of painkiller Sunday. He had requested one at halftime of the Miami game then later won the game on his career-long 57-yard field goal with one second left.

Offensive Line

*** Saturday Update *** OL Minnesota Vikings (MIN) G Artis Hicks sounds like a guy who simply wants to know where he stands with the team. After sharing time the past two games at right guard with Anthony Herrera, Hicks said Friday he didn't know who would start Sunday at Chicago and admitted the uncertainty is getting to him. "Yeah, I'm frustrated," Hicks said. "I'm human. You're a professional, of course, but hell, I'm a human being, too. You want to get into a groove, and it's kind of hard to do when you're in and out."

*** Saturday Update *** OL Philadelphia Eagles (PHI) LG Todd Herremans had arthroscopic surgery during the bye week to clean out cartilage. Yesterday, he declared himself ready to face the New York Jets tomorrow. "My knee feels a lot smoother - it doesn't catch as much. I feel good. I'm very happy with the training staff and myself, that we were able to put this together, and here we are, ready to go play the Jets, 10 days later, so that's a big credit to them." Herremans acknowledged he was "a little bit surprised" to be ready to play. "I had it in my mind that I wanted to be back for this game. I wasn't sure it was going to be possible, because I've never had any kind of surgery before, but it definitely feels good."

Defensive Line

Linebacker

Defensive Back

*** Saturday Update *** DB Gary Baxter (CLE) has been ruled out for this weekend's game.

General Team News

*** Saturday Update *** TM Atlanta Falcons (ATL) The Falcons waived defensive end Josh Mallard on Saturday and signed linebacker Travis Williams from the practice squad.

*** Saturday Update *** TM Dallas Cowboys (DAL) HC Wade Phillips insisted Friday that he never said that Patriots' championships were tainted (as Peter King reported). Two days before the already much-hyped matchup of 5-0 teams, when the Patriots play in Dallas, Phillips denied making such comments after New England coach Bill Belichick was fined $500,000 and the team lost a draft pick for videotaping an opposing sideline this season. "I think it's ludicrous to demean a team, an organization that has done a great job and won all those games, and deserved every bit of it," Phillips said.

*** Saturday Update *** TM San Francisco 49ers (SF) There appears to be good news for the San Francisco 49ers' coming next week. It appears likely that both QB Alex Smith and TE Vernon Davis will rejoin the team for its next game, Oct. 21 against the New York Giants. Even better news is that they will return to an offense that's more ambitious than the one they left. The question, "Do you look forward to returning to a more aggressive offense?" had barely been asked Thursday when Alex Smith leaped in with the answer. "Very much so," the quarterback said. "I felt like we were making that progression from the Arizona game to the St. Louis game and up to the Pittsburgh game. That progression was coming."

All the news

Quarterback

QB Matt Leinart (ARI) The Cardinals placed Matt Leinart on the injured reserve list with his broken collarbone - a move that ends his season.

QB Joey Harrington (ATL) HC Bobby Petrino said Monday that Joey Harrington would remain as the team's starter for next Monday night's home game against the New York Giants. "It's in our best interest and gives us our best chance to succeed to stay with Joey," Petrino said Monday. "He understands our offense. He knows what we want to do, what we want to execute." Harrington was replaced by Byron Leftwich early in the fourth quarter of Atlanta's loss at Tennessee Sunday. "He took a lot of hits and toward the end of the third quarter, I didn't think he was completing passes that he normally completes," Petrino said. "Making the change might provide a spark for us and get us something going. I think it was the right thing to do."

*** Friday Update *** QB Byron Leftwich (ATL) did not practice on Friday and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Byron Leftwich (ATL) partially participated in Thursday's practice. Leftwich left the field Thursday after twisting his right ankle. "It's OK. It's a minor sprain," Leftwich said, adding the Falcons' medical staff "didn't want me to do anything further to it." "I took the rest of today's practice off and we'll see how it feels in the morning," he added.

*** Friday Update *** QB Kyle Boller (BAL) has taken all of the snaps with the starting offense the past two days, and would make his second start of the season if McNair is sidelined.

*** Friday Update *** QB Steve McNair (BAL) did not practice on Friday and is questionable to play this weekend. Asked whether he would play, McNair said, "Hopefully. I feel all right. If I can't go, then we have a good backup. But we'll see."

*** Thursday Update *** QB Steve McNair (BAL) did not practice on Thursday. McNair missed practice today because of a stiff back, but the team seems confident that he will start Sunday against the Rams. "It's just his back was stiff this morning," HC Brian Billick said today. "I guess he slept on it wrong." Asked if he was concerned about McNair's availability for Sunday, Billick said, "Right now, I'm not." McNair has been bothered by a groin injury for most of the season but had not been listed on the injury report this week.

*** Friday Update *** QB David Carr (CAR) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend. However HC John Fox was not ready to declare Carr the starter. "That will be a game-time decision," he said. If Carr can't go, either Vinny Testaverde or Matt Moore would get the start. Carr missed the last two days of practice with a back injury, but Fox said he looked good during practice Friday. "He was out there throwing and that's a good start. I'm not sure if somebody rams into him that will be such a good thing."

*** Thursday Update *** QB David Carr (CAR) did not practice on Thursday. Carr, who injured his back Sunday in New Orleans but returned to finish up the victory against the Saints, is now the starter as long as his back continues to improve. And he expects to play Sunday in Arizona. "Ah, it'll be all right," Carr said. "It's sore right now and really tight. We're just taking precautions. It just kind of grabs once in a while if I'm at a wrong angle. We're just trying to calm that down. I wanted to show (my teammates) by coming back, I wasn't going to give up on them just because my back hurt a little bit. We talked so much about just being a team the whole week and sticking together, for me to just put a towel on my head and sit on the sideline for the rest of the game, that wasn't my personality." Carr did a little bit on Thursday. "It was better today," Carr said. "I threw some balls and it wasn't as uncomfortable as I thought it would be." Carr acknowledged he didn't try to drop back or run. Instead, he watched practice wearing shorts and a T-shirt. "It was a little tight on the release," Carr said of his brief throwing session. "But it should feel better (Friday). If it does, I'll try to practice some."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB David Carr (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday. When asked about Carr's chances of playing Sunday, HC John Fox offered little, but did say there was "a shot," he'd be ready. The Panthers agreed to terms with soon-to-be 44 year old QB Vinny Testaverde yesterday and will have him with the team in time to begin practicing today. "We decided he was our best option," GM Marty Hurney said. "He brings experience. He throws the ball extremely well. He's a fierce competitor. It seems like he'll be an extremely good fit for us." Testaverde will serve as backup to QB David Carr.

QB Jake Delhomme (CAR) tried to throw again Monday morning, and it didn't go well. The Panthers say he'll have season-ending surgery next week, and go on the injured reserve list.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Vinny Testaverde (CAR) will likely start for the team this weekend if David Carr can't go. Testaverde, signed on Wednesday, and the undrafted rookie Matt Moore, signed just over a month ago, took all the snaps for the second straight day on Thursday. HC John Fox wouldn't say which player he'd use if Carr can't go. But Testaverde, who turns 44 next month and was cut by New England in the preseason, would appear to be the front-runner. Entering his 21st NFL season, Testaverde has impressed his new teammates with his arm strength and how quickly he's picked up the offense. "He's got some familiarity with the system we've run and the coaches we have here," Fox said. "Hopefully he's a quick study. I think he is and he's shown that ability just in the last two days."

Moore, who played at Oregon State, was signed after being one of Dallas' final cuts before the start of the regular season. It's uncertain how much confidence the coaching staff has in him to start, and Moore acknowledged Thursday that practice this week has been difficult. "It's so different than what I've been used to," Moore said of working with the first team. "It's not that I don't know the plays, but I just have to pick it up a little bit. Working with the other guys in the huddle, with the receivers and the offensive line, learning little things that they like. "It's a lot of stuff. It's been a bit overwhelming, but I think I'm handling it OK." Those aren't the words of a starting QB.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Vinny Testaverde (CAR) was signed by the Panthers and could see action this weekend if David Carr's back keeps him out.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Damon Huard (KC) practiced fully on Wednesday. HC Herman Edwards announced after practice that Huard will start Sunday against the Bengals. According to Edwards, Huard took part in all phases of the offense and did not show any evidence of pain from the shoulder injury suffered in last week's loss to Jacksonville. "It felt fine," said Huard, who declined to elaborate until his regularly scheduled Thursday session with reporters.

QB Damon Huard (KC) HC Herman Edwards said Tuesday that injured Damon Huard is "on the mend." Huard is going to try and practice tomorrow. As to who starts under center, Edwards said "We'll go through practice to see what he can do. Now, he feels a lot better and he worked out the last two days and he felt ok today. But he hasn't thrown. We'll have to see where he's at throwing the ball and go through our practice schedule like we always go. Brodie [Croyle] will take a lot of the reps as he's always done. See where Damon's at and if he can go and he feels good then he'll go."

*** Friday Update *** QB Trent Green (MIA) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Trent Green (MIA) did not practice on Thursday. Green said he fully intends to return to the team after what he described test results as "very encouraging" regarding his second severe concussion in the last 13 months. Green will have to wait for medical clearance first before he takes the field again and HC Cam Cameron said it's too early to decide anything regarding Green's future right now. "We have to let this thing play out. We just need to let some time go by here," Cameron said. "They recommended some rest. They just all want to let the thing settle down and make sure we know what all took place."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Trent Green (MIA) did not practice on Wednesday. HC Cam Cameron said Green is "very encouraged" by the results of tests performed in Kansas City Wednesday morning to determine the impact of the concussion he suffered on Sunday. Cameron said he spoke with Green shortly before the 37-year-old headed to a second round of tests in the afternoon. Cameron said however that it's way too early to set a for Green's possible return.

QB Trent Green (MIA) Green's concussion was determined to be a grade-three, the most severe kind. Green has already been ruled out of Miami's week 6 game against the Cleveland Browns and will undergo further tests to determine whether his career is over. "I don't think we really know the full extent, because there are some ongoing tests," HC Cam Cameron said. "Right now I just think there are too many unknowns." Cleo Lemon will start in Green's place on Sunday.

*** Friday Update *** QB Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend. However, HC Brad Childress did not name Jackson his starter for Sunday at Chicago. It looks like that will be a gametime decision.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) partially participated in Thursday's practice. As was the case Wednesday, the Vikings had Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb working with the first-team offense. Jackson is expected to start, but the practice setup is keeping many guessing. It is likely that if Jackson gets solid work in on Friday that he'll get the nod this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) The Vikings are splitting practice repetitions between Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb, and HC Brad Childress said today that he couldn't yet commit to Jackson as his starter. "I want to see him get through [the week]," Childress said. "He came back from Monday's practice with no extra soreness, but I want to see him execute the gameplan and get through that thing, so we'll continue to rep him as well as Kelly."

QB Tarvaris Jackson (MIN) is expected to start against the Chicago Bears in week 6. "I probably don't have all my speed back. It's a little sore. But pretty much when the game comes, the adrenaline will be flowing, so I won't even think about it," Jackson said. HC Brad Childress stopped short of naming Jackson the starter saying, "I would like to. I would like to. Again, I just have to see how he responds."

*** Friday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) partially participated in Friday's practice and is listed as questionable to play this weekend although the feeling is that he'll start.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) partially participated in Thursday's practice. HC Eric Mangini backed his Pennington by saying he was still the starter. "He's done an excellent job in a lot of areas," Mangini said. Pennington also has also thrown several interceptions, five in the last two games, and has led the Jets to just 62 points this season. "I feel really good about how I'm playing the game of football - if you extract about five plays out of all four games," Pennington said. "Ninety-five percent of the plays, I really feel good about."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

QB Daunte Culpepper (OAK) will be the starting QB for the Raiders week 6 game. Andrew Walter will back him up and JaMarcus Russell will serve as the emergency QB.

*** Friday Update *** QB Josh McCown (OAK) will not play this weekend.

QB Alex Smith (SF) is optimistic about returning for the team's October 21 game against the New York Giants. Smith made a few throws before the Baltimore game and said his arm felt good. "I thought I'd make some improvement early, but the last couple of days have been great," Smith said. Backup QB Trent Dilfer is expected to start again in week 6.

*** Friday Update *** QB Marc Bulger (STL) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to be available to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Marc Bulger (STL) partially participated in Thursday's practice. The team has already announced that Bulger will not start this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Marc Bulger (STL) partially participated in Wednesday's practice. The team will start Gus Frerotte again at QB this Sunday against the Ravens. HC Scott Linehan said Bulger needs at least another week for his two broken ribs to heal up completely. "Marc was limited in practice, but he's improving," Linehan said. "He's still not fully recovered, but he did more throwing this week than he did last week."

*** Friday Update *** QB Gus Frerotte (STL) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Gus Frerotte (STL) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Gus Frerotte (STL) practiced fully on Wednesday.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Gus Frerotte (STL) will start again this weekend in place of the injured Marc Bulger.

QB Gus Frerotte (STL) will start week 6 for injured QB Marc Bulger.

Running Back

*** Friday Update *** RB Nick Goings (CAR) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Nick Goings (CAR) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Nick Goings (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) did not practice on Wednesday. Johnson was in street clothes, and he walked off the field with strength coach Chip Morton toward the weight room for what appeared to be a workout. QB Carson Palmer said at his news conference that he expected RB Kenny Watson to play a great deal this weekend.

RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) had almost nothing to say Monday after the Bengals practiced. Johnson watched from the sideline. He missed the New England game after injuring his hamstring at Seattle. "Nothing to interview," Johnson said in the locker room afterward Monday's practice. HC Marvin Lewis added little to reveal where some of his keys players are in terms of their injuries. "We'll see," Lewis said when asked if he anticipated having some starters back.

*** Friday Update *** RB Chris Perry (CIN) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Charles Ali (CLE) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Charles Ali (CLE) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Charles Ali (CLE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Jamal Lewis (CLE) has been ruled out for this weekend's game. Jason Wright will start for the team.

*** Friday Update *** RB Jamal Lewis (CLE) did not practice on Friday and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Jamal Lewis (CLE) did not practice on Thursday. HC Romeo Crennel says the team still hopes Lewis will play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Jamal Lewis (CLE) sat out of Wednesday's practice while sporting a protective boot on his strained right foot, putting his availability this Sunday against Miami in doubt. HC Romeo Crennel said Lewis is day-to-day.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Jason Wright (CLE) will start for the team this weekend if Jamal Lewis can not play. While he is limited in experience, the team has confidence in Wright. "Jason Wright is a very consistent player," TE Kellen Winslow said. "When he gets his number called he does a fine job for us. He's an overall back." "So far this year (Wright has) done a good job every time has been in," starting RG Seth McKinney said. "We feel confident he can do a good job." HC Romeo Crennel said on Thursday that "the offense is the offense", and it will not change if Wright is their starting running back. Wright said he's ready to shoulder the load. "They do a good job here of making sure everybody is prepared physically, especially with our strength and conditioning program," Wright said. "And that's really the only difference -- being able to handle the load from a conditioning standpoint -- and I think (I'm) prepared for that."

RB Travis Henry (DEN) Henry's ankle is "fine" after the loss to San Diego according to HC Mike Shanahan. In other news, an NFL source said Sunday night that Henry is scheduled to take a polygraph test this week regarding whether he recently smoked marijuana. The Broncos have used lie detector tests on players in the past. Henry also is willing to provide hair samples for testing in an attempt to prove his innocence.

*** Friday Update *** RB Tatum Bell (DET) isn't happy. "If you're not going to play me, trade me." was the sentiment from Tatum Bell upon learning that he will used be as a backup following his team's bye week. Bell's agent, Jeffrey Griffin, talked to the Lions late this week and expressed his concerns about his client's future in Detroit. With the trading deadline set for next Tuesday and teams in need of running backs, Griffin suggested a trade, although the team informed him he was a valuable part of the offense. Bell is an unrestricted free agent after this season.

RB Kevin Jones (DET) could get the start versus Tampa Bay, Oct. 21. "That's something we'll have a chance to look at and again see where Kevin is health-wise," HC Rod Marinelli said. "I know he's sore right now, but he's a dynamite runner."

*** Friday Update *** RB Brandon Jackson (GB) isn't on the injury report this week but seems to be the odd man out according to www.packers.com. He'll likely be inactive this week with the rushing load split between DeShawn Wynn, Vernand Morency and Ryan Grant.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Vernand Morency (GB) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Vernand Morency (GB) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** RB Ahman Green (HOU) is not listed on the injury report and is expected to start.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Ahman Green (HOU) continues to improve. Said coach Gary Kubiak, "Yeah, he looked good. He took his normal reps and that was a positive for him, so I feel real good about him."

RB Ahman Green (HOU) has an "excellent chance" to return against Jacksonville on Sunday according to coach Gary Kubiak.

*** Friday Update *** RB Fred Taylor (JAX) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Fred Taylor (JAX) partially participated in Thursday's practice. Taylor says he's happy in his role as a part-time starting running back. "I'm fine with how things are going," Taylor said. "I like the offense. I like the direction we're headed. My job is to keep on playing, help the team win. I'm not going to allow selfishness to creep in. I'm not that type of person." Taylor said he is happier about the team's 3-1 record than number of touches he gets per game.

*** Friday Update *** RB Ronnie Brown (MIA) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to start this weekend. He's listed as probable with a foot issue but it doesn't look like anything that will keep him out.

"While Maroney made the trip with the team yesterday, he will miss his third straight game with a groin injury, the source indicated."

This isn't official but the Herald is obviously a solid source. Look for more Sammy Morris again.

*** Friday Update *** RB Laurence Maroney (NE) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend. HC Bill Belichick held his Friday press conference and was asked about how close Maroney is to returning to action. "He's making progress, he's doing some things on the field, it will probably be a game-time decision," Belichick said. "He's definitely getting closer."

*** Thursday Update *** RB Laurence Maroney (NE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Laurence Maroney (NE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

RB Reggie Bush (NO) was asked how he would rate his play on Sunday. Bush gave himself an 'F.' His HC Sean Payton wasn't near as rough on him. "I thought he handled it pretty well," Payton said. "I thought our guys up front did a pretty good job of blocking them. That was a pretty good defensive front we played. We managed to protect pretty well and opened up some room in the run game."

*** Friday Update *** RB Derrick Ward (NYG) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Derrick Ward (NYG) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Friday Update *** RB Darian Barnes (NYJ) practiced fully on Friday but is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Darian Barnes (NYJ) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Darian Barnes (NYJ) practiced fully on Wednesday.

RB Thomas Jones (NYJ) said he spent most of the second half and the critical fourth quarter Sunday wondering if the Jets were going to be able to pull out a victory. He wound up doing very little to influence the outcome as he had only three carries in the second half. "Most feature backs in this league, they get the ball 20 or 25 times a game," Jones said yesterday." Just by you getting the ball that many times, you get a feel for what the defense is doing and you can get a feel for how the offensive line is blocking. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to do that the last couple of weeks."

*** Friday Update *** RB LaMont Jordan (OAK) partially participated in Friday's practice but is a game time decision and the feeling is somewhat pessimistic that he'll get to play.

*** Thursday Update *** RB LaMont Jordan (OAK) Jordan, who has been plagued by a lower back injury since training camp, was unable to finish practice for a second straight day. He hasn't been ruled out for San Diego.

RB LaMont Jordan (OAK) missed practice Monday with his sore back. His status for this week is still up in the air. It's also important to remember that Dominic Rhodes is back this week after serving his suspension.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Dominic Rhodes (OAK) and Justin Fargas split 1st-team snaps when starting RB LaMont Jordan could not continue with back problems Tuesday. "You don't want to do too much with him (Rhodes) too fast," Kiffin said. "The last thing we want to do is put a bunch on him ... and he's not even right yet with the basic stuff. So we'll take it slow in that way."

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

*** Thursday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) practiced fully on Thursday. He seems to be on track to play this weekend. "He'll do what he can do," HC Andy Reid said of Westbrook before the practice. "I'll just keep checking with him and see how he's feeling. He feels pretty good right now."

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) practiced fully on Wednesday.

RB Brian Westbrook (PHI) The Eagles held a short practice on Monday. "I was out there," Westbrook said with a grin. Judging from the manner of his reply, it is likely the Westbrook barely participated in a quick run-through. Still nursing an abdominal strain, he later emerged from the training room with his midsection wrapped in an ace bandage. Westbrook said he was getting better but wasn't willing to make predictions about his status for Sunday's game at the Jets. "I'm not sure yet," he said. "It depends on how it goes this week in terms of progress with the rehab."

*** Friday Update *** RB Andrew Pinnock (SD) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Shaun Alexander (SEA) is expected to play this weekend.

RB Maurice Morris (SEA) HC Mike Holmgren said backup Maurice Morris will see more opportunities on game day now that he's recovered from his hip injury. "I'm not doing anything different, I'm just doing it the way that we used to do it before Mo got hurt," Holmgren said when asked if he was going to rest starting RB Shaun Alexander.

RB Mack Strong (SEA) is calling it a career after suffering a herniated disc during yesterday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. "It's time to move on to bigger and better things," Strong said Monday afternoon. FB Leonard Weaver will start in Strong's place.

*** Friday Update *** RB Steven Jackson (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Steven Jackson (STL) will not play this weekend.

RB Steven Jackson (STL) will not play in Week 6 as he continues to recover from a partially torn groin muscle.

*** Thursday Update *** RB B.J. Askew (TB) made a case on Wednesday to get a few carries. "I thought for sure last year (when with the Jets) I would get a chance to run," Askew said. "Before we went into the season, Mangini had everybody timed in the 40. I ran a 4.4. And I had to fastest 10-yard time on the team. I still have my speed and everything. I was 235 (pounds) then. I'm 235 now. I'm ready to carry a load. I'm hoping." With Zack Crockett now on board, maybe that'll be possible. Crockett has played a lot of fullback and could serve in that capacity if and when the Bucs use Askew as a tailback.

*** Friday Update *** RB Michael Pittman (TB) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Michael Pittman (TB) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** RB Mike Sellers (WAS) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Mike Sellers (WAS) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Mike Sellers (WAS) did not practice on Wednesday.

Wide Receiver

*** Friday Update *** WR Anquan Boldin (ARI) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Anquan Boldin (ARI) did not practice on Thursday. He has reported progress with the hip muscle and says he is 80% right now. The pain has decreased and his range of motion is better. Boldin doesn't want to return too soon, aggravate it and then miss even more time. "I want to come back for more than just one game," Boldin said. "I don't want to rush it back and re-injure it and be done for the season. I really think that with this team we're going to be making a push for the playoffs, and I want to be in there when we do. For me, it's tough. You want to be in there but you always you want to play it smart and make sure you're not making things worse than what they are." Sounds like a guy that expects to sit this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Anquan Boldin (ARI) did not practice on Wednesday.

WR Anquan Boldin (ARI) was able to complete extensive workouts Monday and hoped to be able to do so again Tuesday in an attempt to recover from a hip injury. Boldin, however, erred on the side of caution about when he might return. "For me it's tough. You want to be in there, but you also want to be smart and make sure it's not making it worse," he said.

*** Friday Update *** WR Bryant Johnson (ARI) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Bryant Johnson (ARI) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Bryant Johnson (ARI) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Derrick Mason (BAL) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Derrick Mason (BAL) practiced fully on Thursday as he recovers from a stomach virus.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Derrick Mason (BAL) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) practiced fully on Friday but is still listed as questionable to play this weekend. The feeling is though that he'll be ready.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Bernard Berrian (CHI) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Ethan Kilmer (CIN) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Ethan Kilmer (CIN) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Tab Perry (CIN) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) partially participated in Friday's practice and is listed as questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Joe Jurevicius (CLE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Terry Glenn (DAL) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terry Glenn (DAL) will not play this weekend.

WR Nate Jackson (DEN) suffered a season-ending torn groin on Sunday.

WR Rod Smith (DEN) According to HC Mike Shanahan Smith, currently on the PUP list, is making strides and jogging as he tries to recover from a hip injury.

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

*** Thursday Update *** WR Greg Jennings (GB) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Greg Jennings (GB) partially participated in Wednesday's practice but the team is becoming more optimistic he'll be ready to start this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR James Jones (GB) had a little extra work in Thursday's practice. Benched after coughing up two fumbles in the Packers loss to the Bears, Jones was the only player to go through the "strip-drill" twice, in which two defenders attempt to strip the ball away. Jones had three defenders hanging on him for his drill. "He has very good hands for a young guy, as good as anyone I've ever worked with (as far as) catching the ball away from his body and bringing it in to his body. He's just got to be quicker with securing the football high and tight," HC Mike McCarthy said of Jones.

*** Friday Update *** WR Andre Johnson (HOU) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Andre Johnson (HOU) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Andre Johnson (HOU) looks like he could be back next week. Said coach Gary Kubiak, "You know, Andre (Johnson) ran today. He was out here right before practice and did a bunch of running. He's made a lot of progress. I think we're very, very encouraged in what we are seeing. I think as far as this week goes, he would still be very, very doubtful, but I think we were right on schedule with what we were thinking. Hopefully, next week we're looking at getting him back."

WR Andre Johnson (HOU) is improving. Said coach Gary Kubiak, "Andre (Johnson), I think we're still day-to-day; I can't say that right now about him, even though he did do some running on Friday. We expect him to do some more tomorrow, and everything is looking very, very good. To say that he may be ready to go this week may still be a little bit of a reach. We'll see, but I think we're getting awful close."

*** Friday Update *** WR Jacoby Jones (HOU) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Jacoby Jones (HOU) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Jacoby Jones (HOU) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

WR Roy Hall (IND) The Colts announced on Sunday that they have placed Roy Hall on season-ending injured reserve as the result of a shoulder injury.

*** Friday Update *** WR Eddie Kennison (KC) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Eddie Kennison (KC) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Eddie Kennison (KC) did not practice on Wednesday.

WR Eddie Kennison (KC) re-injured his hamstring Sunday, and HC Herm Edwards said he is probably not going to be available for the game vs Cincinnati.

*** Friday Update *** WR Derek Hagan (MIA) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Derek Hagan (MIA) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Derek Hagan (MIA) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (NE) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (NE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Donte Stallworth (NE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Kelley Washington (NE) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Kelley Washington (NE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Kelley Washington (NE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

WR Devery Henderson (NO) HC Sean Payton didn't announce any wholesale changes to the roster today with his team 0-4, though he said it will be tweaked. On of those tweaks will be demoting Devery Henderson from full-time #2 WR to a rotation. This rotation will give an opportunity to backups Lance Moore, David Patten and Terrance Copper.

*** Friday Update *** WR Plaxico Burress (NYG) did not practice on Friday and is listed as questionable to play this weekend. But that's become his routine and he's expected to start.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Plaxico Burress (NYG) did not practice on Thursday.

WR Plaxico Burress (NYG) said his injured ankle is not improving and he'll likely just have to deal with it on a week-to-week basis. "It really doesn't seem like it's getting any better," said Burress, who has seven touchdowns in five games.

*** Friday Update *** WR Steve Smith (NYG) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Steve Smith (NYG) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Laveranues Coles (NYJ) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Greg Lewis (PHI) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Greg Lewis (PHI) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Greg Lewis (PHI) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Vincent Jackson (SD) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Eric Parker (SD) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Deion Branch (SEA) will not play this weekend.

WR Deion Branch (SEA) will likely miss the next two weeks as he continues to recover from a mid-foot sprain injury sustained in the team's Week 5 game.

*** Friday Update *** WR D.J. Hackett (SEA) is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) did not practice on Thursday. Bruce is expected to miss his second consecutive game because of a hamstring injury.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) did not practice on Wednesday and it's looking pretty pessimistic for him this weekend but watch to see if he's able to work later this week.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Marques Hagans (STL) finds himself the Rams' #3 wide receiver and primary return man. With Isaac Bruce, Dante Hall, and Dane Looker all expected to sit this weekend, Hagans will be busy in week six. "I'm definitely looking forward to it, making sure I'm on top of my assignments and just trying to make plays when given the opportunity," Hagans said.

*** Friday Update *** WR Dante Hall (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Dante Hall (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Dante Hall (STL) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Torry Holt (STL) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Torry Holt (STL) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Torry Holt (STL) did not practice on Wednesday. Holt sat due to swelling his troublesome right knee. "He still has some swelling he gets each week in that knee, and it's just something we need to manage," Linehan said. "It's not serious enough to keep him from playing."

*** Friday Update *** WR Dane Looker (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Dane Looker (STL) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Joey Galloway (TB) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** WR Ike Hilliard (TB) practiced fully on Friday but is listed as questionable to play this weekend. Although the feeling is that he'll be ready.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Ike Hilliard (TB) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Ike Hilliard (TB) practiced fully on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) did not practice on Friday and is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) did not practice on Thursday. HC Jeff Fisher expects him to practice on Friday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Brandon Jones (TEN) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Santana Moss (WAS) practiced fully on Wednesday.

WR Santana Moss (WAS) said he feels great after working out hard Sunday in pregame warm-ups and then again running routes Monday morning. He said he wanted to play but the smarter route was to sit and be healthy this week. Moss said he plans to practice Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** WR Antwaan Randle El (WAS) did not practice on Friday and is questionable to play this weekend. He'll likely be a game time decision.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Antwaan Randle El (WAS) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Antwaan Randle El (WAS) did not practice on Wednesday.

WR Antwaan Randle El (WAS) said his hamstring is feeling "okay" and he expects to play Sunday. He felt the hamstring flare up on his way to the end zone on the 37-yard slant pass. "That's why I didn't score," Randle El said.

Tight End

*** Friday Update *** TE Dwayne Blakley (ATL) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Dwayne Blakley (ATL) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Dwayne Blakley (ATL) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) did not practice on Wednesday.

TE Alge Crumpler (ATL) was a bit frustrated after week five. "I've never been in a game where we had that many opportunities - and a miracle, with a [botched] punt - and we still couldn't score," Alge Crumpler said. "When we cross the 50, we're the worst offense in the National Football League." Crumpler then spoke of the coaching staff. "We're trying to trust them. They keep telling us, 'Trust us, trust us.' We've been trying to trust them the whole time...It's weird. This is a young guys' game we're playing now. It's been taken out of our hands. ... It's just been taken out of the veterans' hands. When we get into situations, we're not being given opportunities."

*** Friday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** TE Daniel Wilcox (BAL) will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Daniel Wilcox (BAL) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Daniel Wilcox (BAL) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** TE Darnell Dinkins (CLE) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Darnell Dinkins (CLE) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Darnell Dinkins (CLE) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Kellen Winslow Jr (CLE) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** TE George Wrighster (JAX) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE George Wrighster (JAX) partially participated in Thursday's practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE George Wrighster (JAX) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** TE Jason Pociask (NYJ) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Jason Pociask (NYJ) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Jason Pociask (NYJ) practiced fully on Wednesday.

*** Friday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced fully on Friday but is questionable to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced fully on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE L.J. Smith (PHI) practiced fully on Wednesday.

TE L.J. Smith (PHI) did a little work in Monday's short practice. "I didn't do too much, just went out there and did a couple of things," Smith said. "I'm really not allowed to talk [about playing this week]. That's passed down [from the coaching staff]." Smith, who had surgery to alleviate scar tissue on his previously repaired sports hernia, hasn't played since the Redskins game. On Sept. 21, the day of the second procedure, this week's Jets' game was offered as a reasonable target date for his return. "I'm pretty much on schedule, I think from what they told me," Smith said Monday. "They told me it wasn't a long, continuous rehab process, it was fairly quick."

*** Friday Update *** TE Marcus Pollard (SEA) is questionable to play this weekend.

Kicker

*** Friday Update *** PK Kris Brown (HOU) partially participated in Friday's practice but is still expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Kris Brown (HOU) did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Kris Brown (HOU) partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** PK Josh Scobee (JAX) will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Josh Scobee (JAX) will not play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** PK Jay Feely (MIA) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Friday Update *** PK Olindo Mare (NO) practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Olindo Mare (NO) practiced fully on Thursday. Barring a setback on Friday, Mare will handle the kicking chores on Sunday, and the Saints will not sign another kicker to even temporarily replace him. Mare has been battling a groin injury and has converted only three of seven attempts so far in 2007. The Saints held off on signing another kicker because they wanted to see how Mare performed on Thursday at practice, apparently, he kicked well enough to satisfy the coaching staff that he can handle most reasonable field goal tries.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Olindo Mare (NO) did not practice on Wednesday. If Mare doesn't appear to be ready by Thursday, HC Sean Payton said the team might turn to one of the six or seven kickers that tried out on Tuesday. Among that list are veterans Mike Vanderjagt, Martin Gramatica and Billy Cundiff. "We need to have a plan if he's not able to go," Payton said of Mare.

Offensive Line

*** Friday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) T Elton Brown practiced fully on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

T Levi Brown will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) G Elton Brown practiced fully on Thursday.

T Levi Brown did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) T Levi Brown partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

*** Friday Update *** OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) T Todd Weiner will not play this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) T Todd Weiner will not play this weekend. Weiner will miss 2-6 weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. Weiner missed part of Sunday's game against Tennessee, but had to return after Wayne Gandy was lost for the season with a torn ACL. Weiner had an MRI exam on Monday. The loss of Weiner and Gandy will mean the Falcons will start two new tackles against the New York Giants on Monday night.

OL Atlanta Falcons (ATL) T Wayne Gandy will miss the remainder of the 2007 season after an MRI exam revealed that he had torn his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during the team's Week 5 game.

*** Friday Update *** OL Baltimore Ravens (BAL) C Mike Flynn partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

T Jonathan Ogden partially participated in Friday's practice and is questionable to play this weekend.

T Adam Terry will not play this weekend.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Baltimore Ravens (BAL) C Mike Flynn did not practice on Thursday.

T Jonathan Ogden partially participated in Thursday's practice.

T Adam Terry did not practice on Thursday.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Baltimore Ravens (BAL) C Mike Flynn partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

T Jonathan Ogden partially participated in Wednesday's practice.

T Adam Terry did not practice on Wednesday.

OL Baltimore Ravens (BAL) HC Brian Billick spoke Tuesday regarding the injuries to his offensive line. Without disclosing the severity of the injuries to C Mike Flynn (right knee) and LT Adam Terry (left ankle), Billick said that Terry's injury is the most pressing concern and could force him to miss Sunday's game against the Rams. Billick also hinted that veteran LT Jonathan Ogden could return for the first time since spraining his left foot in the season opener. The coach also said the team could make a roster move, which could signal the promotion of OT Mike Kracalik from the practice squad. "We'll fill in where we can," Billick said.