SENIOR YEAR

Tennessee junior QB Erik Ainge has made it pretty clear that he will not be entering the 2007 draft but rather will be back at UT for his senior season. Like the rest of us though Ainge is being quoted as saying he has no idea whether junior WR Robert Meacham will be back with the Vols next fall or whether he’ll be entering the upcoming draft......

Michigan junior OT Jake Long announced Thursday that he will return to Michigan for his senior season. Long had been considered a potential top 15 prospect for the 2007 draft.....


Cleveland will likely be without emerging rookie inside linebacker D'Qwell Jackson for the remainder of the season as the 2006 second round pick from Maryland will have surgery on his toe. Jackson is suffering from "turf toe," an injury he suffered in last week’s loss against Pittsburgh. Jackson started all 13 games for the Browns and has 93 tackles, fourth among all rookies in the NFL this fall.....

Week Fifteen Practice Reports

Thursday December 14, 2006


Saturday

DALLAS COWBOYS (8-5) AT ATLANTA FALCONS (7-6) 8:05 PM EST

COWBOYS

FB Oliver Hoyte (knee) has been limited in practice this week and probably won't play. Backup FB Lousaka Polite will fill in.

Backup FS Tony Parrish could be active for this week's game and could see some playing time in back of starting FS Keith Davis who didn't play well last week.

FALCONS

Thursday was the last normal practice for the week since the game will be played one day less than normal.

Their league-leading rushing attack could be at less than full strength Saturday night, as both starting RB Warrick Dunn (left calf) and rookie backup RBJerious Norwood (right knee) were nicked up in the win over Tampa Sunday and are listed as questionable. Neither practiced Wednesday but Norwood (550 yards rushing) got in a full practice Thursday while Dunn again rested. Both backs remain as game day decisions on their status.

If one or both back is out, starting FB Justin Griffith figures to play a more pronounced role carrying the ball and there have even been whispers out of Atlanta that starting QB Michael Vick, who has rushed for 934 yards thus far this year, could line up in the backfield with backup Matt Schaub playing at QB. Vick needs only 35 yards to surpass Bobby Douglas' NFL record for most rushing yards in a season for a quarterback.

The Falcons, who will only have a walk-through Friday before flying to Dallas, signed free agent RB Jamal Robertson Tuesday as insurance against the possible absence Saturday of Norwood and Dunn, whose 997 yards rushing ranks fifth in the NFC. Robertson was in San Francisco when offensive coordinator Greg Knapp was with the 49ers.

Former starting CB Jason Webster (torn groin muscle) has been upgraded this week to questionable from doubtful. He re-joined practice for the first time in over a month Wednesday and Thursday after only doing side-field work last week.

Seven starters were listed as probable when they rested Wednesday but only DT Grady Jackson (knee) and CB DeAngelo Hall (knee) sat out Thursday's workout as well. Despite missing both days of practice, both are still expected to start.

The five who sat out Wednesday and returned to practice Thursday are MLB Ed Hartwell (knee), WLB Keith Brooking (knee), WR Ashley Lelie (thigh), ORT Todd Weiner (knee), and C Todd McClure (back).

Jackson has rested on Wednesday the last four weeks but this is the first week he's missed more than one practice. Weiner has also missed parts of practice the last two weeks. Hartwell missed most of the first two months of the season but has played well the last month.

Rookie CB Jimmy Williams (high left ankle sprain) isn't listed on the injury report. He started last week in his first appearance in a month and will likely be in the lineup again Saturday night. CB/KR/PR Allen Rossum played well in the starting lineup after Webster went down and is now back at his usual nickel position.

To make room for Robertson, the Falcons waived rookie S Nick Turnbull, who was claimed by the Bears.


NEW YORK JETS (7-6) AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS (6-7) 1:00 PM EST

JETS

Starting QB Chad Pennington (calf-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Backup RB Kevan Barlow (calf-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to be available for Sunday's game. But he has been inactive the last two games, and admitted this week he's played most of this year "on one leg" due to off-season knee surgery.

Starting FB B.J. Askew (foot-questionable) was limited again Thursday but should be able to play. He was inactive last week backup FB James Hodgins blocked well.

Backup WR Justin McCareins (foot-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to play.

Starting NT Dewayne Robertson (shoulder-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Kimo von Oelhoffen (shoulder-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting OLB Bryan Thomas (shoulder-questionable) was limited again Thursday but should be able to start.

Veteran CB David Barrett (hip-questionable) was limited again Thursday but should be able to play. Journeyman CB Hank Poteat has been starting of late.

VIKINGS

#2 QBBrooks Bollinger (questionable-shoulder) participated in part of Thursday's practice and may be available to back up starting QB Brad Johnson on Sunday.

Starting RB Chester Taylor (bruised ribs-questionable) participated in part of Thursday's practice and should be able to start. Given his sore ribs, he may not get his usual amount of carries especially since backup RB Artose Pinner topped 100 yards in Detroit last Sunday.

Starting WR Marcus Robinson (ankle-probable) participated in part of Thursday's practice and is expected to start.

Starting DT Pat Williams (knee-probable) is having his practice time limited but he's expected to start.

Starting CB Cedric Griffin (neck-probable) is having his practice time limited but he's expected to start.

Starting MLB Napoleon Harris (dislocated wrist-probable) is having his practice time limited but he's expected to start.


CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-9) AT BALTIMORE RAVENS (10-3) 1:00 PM EST

BROWNS

Starting QB Charlie Frye (sprained right wrist-questionable) didn't practice again Thursday and likely won't play with backup QB Derek Anderson starting for him again. Frye tried some limited throwing Thursday but that's it.

Backup WR Dennis Northcutt (shoulder-questionable) returned to practice Thursday and should be able to play. However, his role could be reduced as third-round pick WR Travis Wilson could see some playing time. Northcutt had three bad drops in the Pittsburgh game, which would seem to make this a perfect time for Wilson to get some work. The Browns are wary about deactivating Northcutt because they don’t trust anyone else to catch punts.

Starting TE Kellen Winslow (knee-questionable) hasn't missed any practice time this week and is expected to start. He's knee has limited his effectiveness of late but he had arguably his best game against the Ravens, seven catches for 92 yards earlier this season.

Starting G Joe Andruzzi (knee-doubtful) isn't practicing and isn't expected to play. Backup OL Lennie Friedman is expected to start for him.

Starting DT Ted Washington (knee-questionable) has been limited this week in practice but is still expected to start.

Starting ILB D'Qwell Jackson (turf toe-doubtful) will have season-ending surgery and will be replaced by fellow rookie ILB Leon Williams. He's big and fast but dropped in the draft because his hips are a bit stiff, and because he inexplicably spent part of his senior season as a backup. He views himself as a first-round talent and will get a chance to start backing up that bold statement.

Starting OLB Willie McGinest (pectoral-questionable) has been able to practice this week and is expected to start.

Starting CB Leigh Bodden (knee-questionable) has been able to practice this week and is expected to start.

RAVENS

#2 RBMusa Smith (neck stinger) is out again.

"They just want to be careful with it. I should be fine," he said.

Veteran RB Mike Anderson will handle his third down role again.

Smith expects to play next week.

"The doctors will tell us when they are comfortable and will make that final decision probably next week," head coach Brian Billick said.

Starting RB Jamal Lewis (illness) was added to the injury report as probable after not practicing but is expected to start.

Starting WR Derrick Mason (thigh-questionable) didn't practice Wednesday but did some practicing Thursday and expected to start.

"Derrick’s good," Billick said Thursday. "He’s a little stiff. He was limited, but I’m confident he’ll get through the week."


HOUSTON TEXANS (4-9) AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (9-4) 1:00 PM EST

TEXANS

Starting FB Jameel Cook (knee) is out with backup FB Vonta Leach starting for him.

Rookie RB Wali Lundy may not start this week or any more as the coaches are happy with what they've seen from veteran RB Ron Dayne of late. Rookie CB Chris Taylor could see some carries this week as well.

KR Jerome Mathis (groin) missed practice again Thursday but remains probable to play. Backup CB Dexter Wynn would return kicks if needed.

Starting C Drew Hodgdon (foot-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting DEs Mario Williams (foot-probable) and Anthony Weaver (knee-probable) were rested Thursday but are expected to start.

Starting FS C.C. Brown (foot-doubtful) missed practice again Thursday. Backup S Jason Simmons is expected to start for him.

PATRIOTS

Backup LB Don Davis (knee) and veteran FB Patrick Pass (hamstring) were placed on IR this week.

Starters QB Tom Brady (right shoulder) and DE Richard Seymour (elbow) both practiced again Thursday and are expected to start.

Backups WR Chad Jackson (groin-questionable) and backup RB Laurence Maroney (back-questionable) both did more in practice Thursday then they did at any time last week. They have a decent chance to play on Sunday if they can practice Friday.

Starting TE Dan Graham (ankle-questionable) practiced Thursday and is expected to start. #2 TE Ben Watson (knee-questionable) didn't practice Thursday and likely won't play. Newly signed TE O.J Santiago (foot) is already questionable to play. Rookie TE David Thomas will see extra snaps this week.

Starting ORT Ryan O'Callaghan (neck) practiced Thursday but remains questionable to play. Backup OT Nick Kaczur has started the last two games in his place.

Starting DT Vince Wilfork (ankle-questionable) didn't practice again Thursday and is more to the doubtful side. Starting DE Ty Warren could slide over to fill in or they could use backup DL Mike Wright (shoulder-questionable), who did practice Thursday.

Veteran CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist-questionable) practiced Thursday and is expected to handle the nickel role with veteran CB Chad Scott starting for him again.

Starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder-doubtful) isn’t practicing this week but he’s getting better and could play as early as next week. Backup S James Sanders has been starting for him.


MIAMI DOLPHINS (6-7) AT BUFFALO BILLS (6-7) 1:00 PM EST

DOLPHINS

QB Daunte Culpepper (knee) was placed on IR this week. Free agent QB Shane Matthews was signed to replace him on the active roster.

Starting QB Joey Harrington (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting RB Ronnie Brown (broken left hand) remains out. Backup RB Sammy Morris will start again for him. Brown's injured hand still hasn't healed enough for him to practice. The team is hoping he'll be able to practice next week.

Starting WR Chris Chambers (knee/ankle) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting G Jeno James (knee-questionable) practiced again Thursday. If he can practice Friday, he should be able to start. Backup OL Kendyl Jacox has been starting for him.

Starting C Rex Hadnot (shoulder-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Backup DT Dan Wilkinson (knee) missed practice Thursday and is questionable to play.

BILLS

Starting RB Willis McGahee is not on the injury report and has practiced all week, but is still not 100 percent. He's still hobbled a little by his ankle injury and his ribs are still not fully healed. Still, he'll start.

Starting OLT Jason Peters (questionable-knee) missed practice again Thursday.

"Our medical staff is calling it a bone bruise and it was pretty sore," said head coach Dick Jauron. "It just showed up. Surprisingly, it didn’t bother him after the game and it didn’t bother him the next two days. He came in Wednesday and said he got up and it was sore. We’ll see where that one goes.

Peters still believes he'll be ready to play.

"I'll be alright," he said after Thursday's practice. "I'll be out there on Sunday."

If he can't play, the coaches may have to move starting LG Mike Gandy back out to left tackle where he started the season and put backup G Tutan Reyes in at guard or rookie OL Aaron Merz. The only other alternative would be put rookie OT Brad Butler in for Gandy.

"(Putting Gandy at left tackle) is a consideration," said Jauron. "You know who we have on the active roster. We’re limited by that group, but we can configure it a number of different ways. Hopefully we won’t have to, but we’ll wait and see."

Starting SLB Takeo Spikes (questionable-knee/ankle) did limited work on Thursday but has yet to practice.

"It was an ankle and a knee," said Jauron. "He got rolled up in the pile, but as you saw on Sunday, he came back and played and finished the game. We’ll wait and see, but he did not work (with the team in practice)."

Starting CB Terrence McGee (questionable-ankle) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Backup CB Kiwaukee Thomas would start if needed.

Starting SS Donte Whitner (questionable-hamstring) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Backup S Jim Leonhard would start if needed.


PITTSBURGH STEELERS (6-7) AT CAROLINA PANTHERS (6-7) 1:00 PM EST

STEELERS

Starting WR Hines Ward (knee-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. He tested his leg on Tuesday and felt good so he's been able to practice. Starting WR Cedrick Wilson (high ankle-questionable) missed practice again Thursday and isn't expected to play. Rookie WR Santonio Holmes is expected to start for him.

Starting C Jeff Hartings (knee-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting FS Ryan Clark (groin-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting SS Troy Polamalu (knee-doubtful) missed practice again Thursday and isn't expected to play. Backup S Tyrone Carter is expected to start again for him. Backup S Mike Logan (hamstring-doubtful) missed practice again Thursday and isn't expected to play.

PANTHERS

Starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-questionable) missed practice again Thursday. If he can't practice Friday, look for backup QB Chris Weinke to start again for him. Delhomme still has swelling in his right thumb that has subsided just a little.

Backup RB Nick Goings (shoulder) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Starting TE Kris Mangum (hip) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play. Backup TE Michael Gaines would start if needed.

Starting G Mike Wahle (shoulder) didn't practice Thursday and was added to the injury report as questionable.

Backup LB/special teams ace Brandon Jamison (hamstring) practiced Thursday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to play.

Starting CB Chris Gamble (hamstring) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play. Former starting CB Ken Lucas (hamstring) returned to practice Thursday but remains questionable to play. Backup CB Christian Morton (hamstring), who started for Gamble last week, was placed on IR. The team claimed DB Derrick Strait off of waivers from the Bears this week. If Gamble and Lucas can't play, rookie CB Dion Byrum, who was claimed off of waivers recently, could start.


WASHINGTON REDSKINS (4-9) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (9-4) 1:00 PM EST

REDSKINS

Washington has some concerns along the offensive line heading into Sunday's game with the Saints.

Starting RT Jon Jansen (calf-questionable) sat out practice again on Thursday. The injury has bothered Jansen the last few weeks, but it has not forced him to miss any games.

If Jansen is able to practice Friday, he should be able to start.

If Jansen can't play, backup OL Todd Wade would likely start. Backup OL Jim Molinaro, the team's sixth-round pick in 2004, could also factor into the mix.

Starting C Casey Rabach (hand-questionable) sat out practice again on Thursday, however head coach Joe Gibbs said earlier this week that Rabach could be back on the field Friday.

"He told me 'I think I'll be able to practice on Friday,' so we'll see," Gibbs said. "Basically what you do is protect it so it can't get hit and then he can snap with the other hand."

Earlier this week, he underwent minor surgery to have three pins placed in his broken left hand. He has since had his hand placed in a cast. He snaps the ball to starting QB Jason Campbell with his right hand.

If Rabach can't play, backup OL Mike Pucillo would likely start.

Starting WR Santana Moss was added to the injury report Thursday as probable after missing practice due to an illness. He's expected to start.

SAINTS

Starting WR Joe Horn (groin-questionable) didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday and isn't expected to play.

Horn, who tried playing Dec. 3 but came out early in the game, was inactive Sunday night in Dallas. He also missed the first two games of November with a strained groin but started in the next three contests after that span. Horn denied rumors Wednesday that he would be sidelined for the rest of the season and that he would "absolutely" be back for the playoffs.

The team opened up last week's game with a three-receiver set but #4 WR Terrance Copper is listed as his backup but look for #3 WR Devery Henderson to split playing time with him.

Starting WR Marques Colston (ankle) isn't listed on the injury report this week. He missed two games prior to last week's win in Dallas, when he returned to action and caught five passes for 48 yards. He left last week's game with cramps but hasn't been limited this week.

Starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-questionable), starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-questionable) and backup RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring-questionable) are the remaining players listed on the injury report.

Stecker, who practiced Wednesday and Thursday, missed the game three weeks ago with a sprained ankle but returned to action Dec. 3 when he pulled his hamstring, which forced him inactive last week.

Stoutmire and Campbell both sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday. Backup TEs Billy Miller and John Owens back up Campbell and the team also signed veteran TE Marcellus Rivers for depth. They released backup DE Trevor Johnson, who was added last week, to make room for Rivers.

Veteran S Steve Gleason would start for Stoutmire if needed.


JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (8-5) AT TENNESSEE TITANS (6-7) 1:00 PM EST

JAGUARS

The Jaguars list 17 players on their injury report after placing backup S Nick Sorensen (hamstring) on IR Thursday afternoon. He had been bothered by a sore hamstring for weeks and re-injured it last Sunday.

All but two of the other 15 players are listed as probable and should be in their usual spots Sunday in Tennessee.

The only two players not listed as probable are backup P Chris Hanson (left hamstring-questionable) and backup DT Tony McDaniel (questionable-hip). Hanson missed practice Wednesday and Thursday and McDaniel only missed Thursday's workout when he was added to the injury report.

The only three of the 15 players listed as probable who have missed any practice time this week are starting DT Marcus Stroud (right ankle), who rested for parts of Thursday's workout, starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) and his backup, rookie Maurice Jones-Drew (calf). Taylor rested Wednesday but returned for a full workout Thursday and Jones-Drew didn't practice either day, although he's expected to play Sunday.

Jones-Drew has been listed as probable with a hamstring ailment in recent weeks but hasn't missed any playing time and had a prolific game Sunday with 303 all-purpose yards and two rushing touchdowns. Taylor tweaked his hamstring late in the second quarter Sunday and didn't play in the second half, due as much to the sizable lead the Jaguars had built up as his hamstring. He had nine carries for 131 yards in the first half, including a 76-yard run. He's expected to start.

Among the other 12 players listed as probable are six starters - RG Vince Manuwai (wrist), CB Brian Williams (hamstring), WLB Clint Ingram (shoulder), MLB Daryl Smith (shoulder), TE George Wrighster (shoulder) and FB Derrick Wimbush (ankle).

Williams returned to the starting lineup two weeks ago in Miami after sitting out the previous week and Manuwai rested one day last week but started. The other five were also listed last week but all started.

Backups listed as probable include CB Ahmad Carroll (groin), #4 WR Cortez Hankton (hamstring), LB Jorge Cordova (hamstring), LB Kenneth Pettway (groin), dime back Terry Cousin (groin), and RB Montell Owens (shoulder).

Cousin has played the last two weeks for the first time since early-October.

To replace Sorensen on the roster, the Jaguars signed rookie DE Jeremy Mincey, who spent parts of this season with both New England and San Francisco.

TITANS

DE Antwan Odom (right knee) was placed on IR Wednesday and the Titans promoted TE Cooper Wallace from the practice squad to replace him on the roster. Odom had his knee scoped Nov. 9 and finishes the season having played in four games. This injury, which occurred Oct. 29, isn't related to the one on the same knee that forced him to miss the first three games of the campaign.

Wallace may be needed Sunday vs. Jacksonville since starting TE Bo Scaife (ankle-questionable) has been nursing a sore ankle for the past few weeks and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday.

Among the other seven players listed as questionable are starting TB Travis Henry (ankle), his backup, rookie RB LenDale White (hip), starting RGBenji Olson (back spasms), starting DT Albert Haynesworth (back), and starting WR Drew Bennett (knee).

White was the only of the five to practice both Wednesday and Thursday with Henry, Olson and Bennett sitting out both days, although Olson did participate in individual drills Thursday.

Head coach Jeff Fisher has not addressed who would start at RB - White or former starter Chris Brown - if Henry, whose 937 rushing yards ranks sixth in the AFC, is inactive. With White inactive last week, Brown saw his first action in more than a month and rushed four times for 44 yards.

Olson was inactive last week and was replaced by backup OL Eugene Amano.

Haynesworth was added to the injury report Thursday when he was held out of practice, but he's expected to be at full-strength Sunday and likely will practice Friday.

"(He has) low back soreness, so we just held him out of practice," said Fisher of Haynesworth.

Bennett is also expected to start.

Also listed as questionable are starting WR Brandon Jones (chest) and backup DE Josh Savage (hamstring) but both practiced Wednesday and Thursday. Savage has been inactive the last three games. Jones is expected to start.

Starting DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (illness) was removed from the injury report on Thursday when he practiced fully. He was listed as questionable on Wednesday when he rested.

Starting DE Travis LaBoy, who missed two games recently with a concussion, left practice early Wednesday with a hand injury but he returned Thursday to work fully.


TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (3-10) AT CHICAGO BEARS (10-3) 1:00 PM EST

BUCCANEERS

Every player on their active roster practiced Thursday as the team continued preparations for Sunday's game with the Bears.

The team's injury concerns are all on the defense.

Starting LCB Phillip Buchanon (groin-probable) was back on the field Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. He is expected to start Sunday.

Nickel CB Juran Bolden (quadriceps) practiced again Thursday but remains questionable to play.

Starting DT Ellis Wyms (ankle-questionable) and starting MLB Shelton Quarles (knee/ankle-questionable) both practiced for a second straight day and are expected to start.

"I don't have any changes on the injuries. Everybody did practice so we're encouraged by that," head coach Jon Gruden said.

BEARS

Starting DT Tommie Harris (ruptured left hamstring) was placed on IR Tuesday, a day after undergoing surgery that will sideline him for several months. Veteran DT Alfonso Boone and former starter Ian Scott will take over most of the snaps Harris would have seen the remainder of the season and DT Antonio Garay will now be active.

The Bears had their first practice of the week on Thursday, as head coach Lovie Smith elected to stay with his usual regimen of giving the team two days of physical rest after a win.

Two other defenders - CB Nathan Vasher (right hamstring) and SS Todd Johnson (right ankle) - are among four starters listed as questionable.

Vasher, who sat out practice Thursday, was inactive Monday night while Johnson, who returned for a full practice on Thursday, has missed the last two games. Nickel back Ricky Manning Jr. started for Vasher vs. the Rams, with Dante Wesley and rookie CB/KR/PR Devin Hester seeing snaps at the nickel and dime, and former starting S Chris Harris has filled in for Johnson.

Speaking of Hester, he was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week Wednesday for the second consecutive week and third time of his rookie campaign. Hester now has six returns for touchdown this year, which has already set the NFL single-season mark. Smith squelched the notion Wednesday of possibly playing Hester on offense in certain packages, saying that the rookie is devoted to playing on defense and returning kicks.

Also listed as questionable are starting RB Thomas Jones (left ankle) and starting OLT John Tait (left ankle). Both sat out practice Thursday and have had lingering injuries for the past couple of weeks.

Backup RB Cedric Benson (35 carries for 170 yards and two touchdowns in the last three games) has begun to assert himself in a rotation with Jones (1,053 yards rushing) of late. If Jones can't practice Friday, the chances of him playing would lessen a bit. #3 RB Adrian Peterson would back up Benson and also see time on third downs if Jones can't play.

Tait has had to be re-taped the last two games but hasn't missed any snaps. Jones tweaked his ankle late in the win Monday night and didn't return after his 30-yard touchdown capped the team's first possession of the second half.

Special teams LB Leon Joe (left hamstring-questionable) is the fifth player listed as questionable. He injured the hamstring on the game's opening kickoff in New England Nov. 26 and hasn't practiced since. He also missed two games earlier in the season with a strain in his right hamstring.

Starting C Olin Kruetz (knee), starting LG Ruben Brown (shoulder) and #3 QB Kyle Orton (illness) were all added to the injury report as probable Thursday when they didn't practice. Kruetz and Brown are expected back on the field Friday and will start Sunday. With the team having already clinched the NFC North and a home playoff game, Smith will probably give some veterans a day or two to rest during the final three weeks of the season to preserve them for January.

Off the field, the home of starting DT Tank Johnson was searched by police Thursday morning. Johnson attended morning meetings before leaving Halas Hall prior to practice beginning. He later was charged with not having a gun owner identification card after six firearms were found and taken from the scene. Two adults and two children were present at the home when the search was conducted.

Smith said after practice that Johnson is scheduled to go through the rest of the week as usual.

"Tank's status right now is just like it was before," said Smith, adding that the incident is a distraction. "All I know right now is that there was a search warrant to check his home. It definitely is a concern because Tank has had to deal with some things like this in the past. Yes, it definitely is a concern."


DETROIT LIONS (2-11) AT GREEN BAY PACKERS (5-8) 1:00 PM EST

LIONS

The rushing attack is now a long-term question mark with the news this week that starting RB Kevin Jones will miss the rest of this year and possibly large chunks of 2007 as well, due to a Lisfranc injury to his left foot. Jones was placed on IR Tuesday and underwent surgery Wednesday. It's believed that the fracture he suffered was a grade-three which is the worst of the three grades. This is similar to what former Eagle RB Duce Staley suffered earlier in his career.

Backup RB Arlen Harris will likely get the bulk of the carries in the season's final three outings but the team will need to address Jones' absence in either the draft or free agent market this off-season.

On Wednesday, starting RG Blaine Saipaia (chest) was also placed on IR. He started four games since the middle of the year and re-aggravated a previous injury last Sunday to the extent that surgery will be needed. The other starting guard, Ross Verba (groin-out) was downgraded from doubtful on Thursday and may end up on IR as well.

With Saipaia and Verba both out, rookie Frank Davis and veteran OL Rick DeMulling, who started several games at guard earlier in the season, will step into the starting lineup Sunday, and hopefully the final two games as well.

Starting CB Fernando Bryant (concussion-out) and starting DT Marcus Bell (hand-out) were also both downgraded Thursday from doubtful. Bryant was injured in the first quarter Dec. 3 on a helmet-to-helmet hit with teammate WLBErnie Sims and was inactive Sunday. Backup CB Stanley Wilson started for Bryant last week.

"He's been doing some stuff; he just didn't put the helmet on," said head coachRod Marinelli of Bryant, who he hopes can return next week. "We'll see next week where it's at but they're pretty cautious usually on those heads."

Bell was injured vs. the Vikings and backup DTs Anthony Bryant and Cleveland Pinckney will take the majority of his snaps. Bryant was signed off Tampa's practice squad last week. With starting DT Shaun Rogersalready on IR, DE Cory Redding is the other interior starter.

Backup LB Teddy Lehman (hamstring) and backup TE Marcus Pollard (hamstring) are questionable. Lehman was inactive last week and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, while Pollard was added to the report Thursday when he didn't practice.

Starting OLT Jeff Backus (foot) was removed from the list Thursday after being listed as probable on Wednesday when he rested. As he has been the last two weeks, Backus has sat out a day of practice and started each Sunday, which he has done in every game of his pro career.

Backus is still working on his streak of starting every game as a pro and won't let this ailment keep him from playing Sunday. The lone Lion listed as probable is now WR/KR/PR Eddie Drummond (toe), who rested Wednesday, but returned for a full workout on Thursday.

Backup WR DeVale Ellis (shoulder) isn't listed for the first time in three weeks. He was injured Nov. 19 and missed the subsequent three games.

To replace Jones and Saipaia on the roster, the Lions promoted G Stephen Peterman and rookie RB Anthony Sherrell from their practice squad. The Lions also promoted C Dave Pearson from the practice squad on Thursday. Pearson's promotion was possible since the team didn't replace Rogers on the roster last week, making three roster spots available this week after Jones and Saipaia went on IR.

PACKERS

Starting RB Ahman Green (knee-probable) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting WR Donald Driver (shoulder-questionable) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to start. #3 WR Ruvell Martin (bruised chest-questionable) missed practice again Thursday. If he can't play, backup WRCarlyle Holiday would fill in for him.

Starting ORT Mark Tauscher (groin) returned to practice Thursday and was upgraded to questionable but isn't expected to play with backup OL Tony Mollstarting for him again.

#2 TE David Martin (ribs-questionable) practiced again Thursday. If he can practice Friday, he'll likely play. If not, #3 TE Donald Lee would fill in again.

Starting C Scott Wells (illness-probable) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting CB Charles Woodson (shoulder-probable) rested again Thursday but is still expected to start.

DENVER BRONCOS (7-6) AT ARIZONA CARDINALS (4-9) 4:05 PM EST

BRONCOS

K Jason Elam (left hamstring-probable) practiced Thursday and is expected to start. It was the first practice day that Elam kicked since being injured against Seattle on a fake field goal. Elam kicked Sunday at San Diego. He said Thursday he felt much better when he woke up than on any previous day since being injured.

Starting WR Rod Smith (hip-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Rookie WR Brandon Marshall (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to play.

Starting TE Stephen Alexander (ribs) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play. The team still believes he'll be able to play but look for rookie TE Tony Scheffler to see more playing time as he has done recently.

Starting ORT Adam Meadows (hamstring) has seen limited practice time this week and remains questionable to play. Backup OT George Foster would start again if needed.

Starting OLT Erik Pears (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting MLB Al Wilson (thumb-probable) is recovered form the strained neck he suffered Dec. 3 against Seattle. He was taken off the field on a stretcher. But Wilson started last week at San Diego. Head coach Mike Shanahan said this week Wilson looks much better in practice.

Starting CB Darrent Williams (toe/shoulder) was downgraded form probable to questionable on Thursday. However, Williams did practice more Thursday than he did Wednesday. He has a toe issue that developed this week and his shoulder continues to hamper him. It is a separation that he has been playing with for weeks. Williams is expected to start but backup S Curome Cox and backup CB Karl Paymah would play in his place if his toe worsens.

CARDINALS

Arizona is going for their third win a row this weekend when they play the fading Broncos for their final home game of the season. It been three years since any Cardinal running back has rushed over 100 yards in consecutive weeks. Starter Edgerrin James has posted identical numbers in the last two weeks rushing for 115 yards on 26 carries.

#2 RB Marcel Shipp (rib) returned to practice Thursday and was upgraded to questionable. They'll see how he does Friday in order to determine his status.

Starting ORT Reggie Wells (illness- probable) missed practice again Thursday. He had a temperature of 102 last week but was able to play against the Seahawks. Former starting ORT Oliver Ross would start if needed.

Starting DE Chike Okeafor (calf- probable) missed practice again Thursday and could be downgraded.


PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (7-6) AT NEW YORK GIANTS (7-6) 4:15 PM EST

EAGLES

Starting RB Brian Westbrook is just five yards shy of his first 1,000-yard rushing season. Westbrook, bothered by knee swelling earlier in the year, has practiced and played without incident of late and is not listed on the injury report.

In the past six meetings against the Giants, Westbrook has 721 scrimmage yards (120.2 per game) & eight touchdowns (4 rush, 3 rec., 1 PR). He leads all NFL running backs with a 6.2-yard average per touch and four receiving touchdowns. He ranks second in yards per carry (5.1), and third in receiving yardage (624)and receptions (69).

Starting QB Jeff Garcia has thrown for seven touchdowns and no interceptions in his three starts since replacing injured QB Donovan McNabb.

Starting C Jamaal Jackson (ankle-probable) practiced Thursday and will start Sunday.

On defense, nickel LB Shawn Barber (neck-questionable) has yet to practice this week. However, head coach Andy Reid indicated earlier this week that Barber should be able to play Sunday. Barber missed two games because of a knee sprain but returned last week against the Redskins

"We expect him to be back. We're just letting that thing calm down a little bit," Reid said.

If Barber practices Friday, he should play.

Nickel CB Rod Hood (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Thursday but remains listed as questionable. Hood was inactive for last Sunday's game against the Redskins.

Backup CB William James worked as the nickel corner last week and figures to see significant action against the Giants' taller receivers. The former Giant signed with the Eagles earlier this season.

Former starting WLB Matt McCoy (shoulder-probable) practiced Thursday and was upgraded from questionable. McCoy, who was inactive last week against Washington, lost the starting job to rookie LB Omar Gaither. Gaither, who had an interception last week, will make his third career start.

On special teams, the team released backup LB/special teamer Jason Short earlier this week and promoted backup RB/CB Bruce Perry from the practice squad.

Perry will likely serve as the primary kick returner this weekend although special teams coordinator John Harbaugh was not revealing anything on Thursday.

"It has not been decided (who will be our returners) and if it had we probably wouldn't have announced it yet anyways," Harbaugh said.

As for Perry, Harbaugh said: "If he is active he'd be on all the cover teams. He'd be on kickoff, punt - he'd be on all four phases. He's done a good job. He's been practicing all year. He's been with us a couple of years now so he knows what we do on special teams."

Backup RB/KR/PR Reno Mahe has handled the return duties much of the year. He may still return punts, but we don't rule out the possibility that the Eagles use either Westbrook or starting CB Lito Sheppard.

"Those guys have been in the mix all year. Some games it wasn't part of the plan. Other games it has been part of the plan. It has been more part of the plan recently and I am sure it will continue to be part of the plan," Harbaugh said.

As for the chance that Westbrook be back on punts, Harbaugh said: "I think we would be inclined to use him whenever, strategically, it made the most sense for us to try and help us get a big return and make a play and win the game somewhere along the way."

GIANTS

Starting C Shaun O'Hara (ankle) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play. Backup OL Rich Seubert is working in his place.

Starting OLT Luke Petitgout (fibula-out) is expected to miss their final three games so backup OT Bob Whitfield starts again.

Starting ORT Kareem McKenzie (neck-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Michael Strahan (foot-doubtful) hasn’t practiced during team drills but he did go through individual drills for the second straight day on Thursday.

“I would say the word is ‘encouraged,’” head coach Tom Coughlin said when discussing Strahan. “We are encouraged. He did some work yesterday and did a little more today. It’s always a question of what it’s going to be like the next day. We’re very conservative and reserved in what we say because of that, but it is encouraging that he has had an opportunity to work a couple of days in a row.”

Strahan is not expected to play and rookie DE Mathias Kiwanuka will fill in once again.

Starting CB Corey Webster (toe-questionable) practiced for the second straight day on Thursday and should be active after missing three games. However, it's uncertain whether or not he’ll reclaim his starting spot from veteran CB R.W. McQuarters.

K Jay Feely (right foot) was taken off the injury report.He was listed as probable.


ST. LOUIS RAMS (5-8) AT OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-11) 4:15 PM EST

RAMS

Starting FB Paul Smith (neck) was downgraded to doubtful on Thursday after not practicing again and isn't expected to play. Backup FB Madison Hedgecock will start for him.

Starting WR Torry Holt (knee-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. #3 WR Kevin Curtis (calf-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to play.

Starting G Adam Timmerman (ribs) was added to the injury report as questionable with his rib injury that he's been dealing with for several weeks. Starting C Richie Incognito practiced in his spot at guard with backup CBrett Romberg working at center.

Starting ORT Alex Barron (knee/toe) was added to the injury report as probable but practiced and is expected to start.

Starting DE Leonard Little (neck-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Starting DE Victor Adeyanju (forearm) returned to practice Thursday but remains questionable to play. Backup DE Brandon Green would start again if needed.

Starting WLB Pisa Tinoisamoa (broken hand) was placed on IR. Backup WLBDexter Coakley will start for him.

Starting CB Tye Hill (thigh-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

RAIDERS

Starting RB LaMont Jordan (knee) remains out likely for the rest of the season with backup RB Justin Fargas starting again for him.

Backup WR Jerry Porter (hip) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Sometimes it pays to stink. That was the case with the Raiders who were awarded WR Doug Gabriel off waivers because they had a worse record than the Tennessee Titans, who also put in a claim in for him. Gabriel practiced with the team on Thursday and could be active in the #3 role on Sunday if starting WR Randy Moss (ankle-questionable) can't play. Moss missed practice again Thursday and if he can't practice Friday, look for backup WR Ronald Curry to start for him.

Starting OLT Robert Gallery (elbow) practiced again Thursday but remains questionable to play. Backup OT Chad Slaughter would start again if needed.

Starting G Barry Sims (abdomen-probable) practiced Thursday but rookie G Paul McQuistan is expected to start for him. Backup G Corey Hulsey (knee) missed practice Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Backup DT Tommy Kelly (knee-probable) practiced Thursday and is expected to play.

Backup DE Lance Johnstone (knee/toe) was placed on IR this week.

Starting CB Nnamdi Asomugha (quadriceps-probable) practiced Thursday and is expected to start.


KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (7-6) AT SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (11-2) 8:20 PM EST

CHIEFS

Starting ORT Kyle Turley (shoulder-questionable) missed practice again Thursday. Backup OL John Welbourn will probably start again for him.

Rookie FS Jarrad Page (ribs) was added to the injury report as probable.

CHARGERS

Backup RB/KR Michael Turner (hamstring-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to play.

Starting WR Keenan McCardell (calf-questionable) practiced again Thursday and should start. Backup WR Vincent Jackson started for him last week. Backup WR Malcom Floyd (ankle) was placed on IR Thursday. The club signed veteran WR Az-Zahir Hakim to take his place on the active roster.

Starting C Nick Hardwick (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.

Starting OLB Shawne Merriman (foot) was added to the injury report after Wednesday's practice and was rested on Thursday. He's still expected to start.

Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle-questionable) was limited again Thursday. He played quite a bit last week although backup DE Jacques Cesairestarted for him.

Starting DT Jamal Williams (knee-probable) was rested Thursday but is expected to start.

Starting ILB Randall Godfrey (calf-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Backup ILB Stephen Cooper started for him last week.

Starting FS Marlon McCree (calf/knee-probable) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to start. Backup S Bhawoh Jue (knee-probable) returned to practice Thursday and is expected to play.


Monday

CINCINNATI BENGALS (8-5) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (10-3) 8:20 PM EST

BENGALS

The team held their first practice of the week on Thursday.

#2 WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back) was rested Thursday but is expected o start. #4 WR Kelley Washington (hamstring-out) had a setback last week so he's out again.

Backup TE Tony Stewart (ankle-probable) practiced Thursday and is expected to play.

Starting C Rich Braham (knee) remains out. Backup C Eric Ghiaciuc starts for him.

Starting OLT Levi Jones (knee) missed practice Thursday remains doubtful to play. He went through individual drills only. Rookie OT Andrew Whitworth starts again for him.

Starting ORT Willie Anderson (foot-probable) was rested Thursday but is expected to start.

LB Caleb Miller (probable-ankle) has started the last four games at MLB. With veteran LB Brian Simmons now healthy, that could cut into Miller’s playing time but not much. Miller practiced on Thursday and will likely start again.

COLTS

The team held their first practice of the week on Thursday.

Starting RB Dominic Rhodes (wrist-questionable) practiced Thursday and is expected to start. Rookie RB Joseph Addai (bruised foot-questionable) was able to practice Thursday and is expected to play.

#3 WR Brandon Stokley (torn Achilles) was placed on IR. WR John Standeford was signed off of the practice squad to replace him on the active roster. Veteran WR Ricky Proehl is expected to handle most of the #3 role. Backup WR Aaron Moorehead (back) missed practice Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Starting TE Dallas Clark (knee) remains out at least through the end of the regular season. Backup TE Ben Utecht starts for him.

Starting ORT Ryan Diem (groin) missed practice Thursday and remains questionable to play. Rookie OT Charlie Johnson would start if needed.

Starting G Ryan Lilja (knee) was held out of practice Thursday but is expected to start.

Starting DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder) didn't practice Thursday but is expected to start. Freeney is usually given a midweek practice off in order to rest the shoulder.

Starting CB Nick Harper (ankle-questionable) missed practice Thursday. He missed part of the second half of last week's game at the Jaguars but is expected to start.

Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) didn't practice Thursday. He'll have to practice at least once over the next two days if he's going to start.

Starting SS Antoine Bethea (shoulder) missed practice Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Backup CB/S Marlin Jackson (shoulder) missed practice Thursday and remains questionable to play. If he's able to play and Sanders can't, he'll start for Sanders again.