December 2009 4for4 Player News Articles

Browns RB Jerome Harrison (hip) was limited at practice on Thurs after taking a full practice on Wed.

Bills TE Shawn Nelson (illness) did not practice on Thurs after taking practice on Wed.

Bills WR Steve Johnson (ankle) did not practice on Thurs after taking practice on Wed.

Bengals WR Andre Caldwell (illness) did not practice on Thurs after taking practice on Wed.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams (shoulder) was limited at practice on Thurs after taking a full practice on Wed.

Panthers QB Matt Moore (rib) took practice reps on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle) took practice on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Jets RB Thomas Jones (not injury related) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Colts RB Donald Brown (illness) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Eagles QB Michael Vick (quadricep) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan (toe) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Colts WR Austin Collie (not injury related) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Bucs RB Derrick Ward (knee, thigh) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Jets RB Tony Richardson (not injury related) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Steelers RB Willie Parker (shoulder) took practice on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Giants WR Mario Manningham (shoulder) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Texans WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder) took practice reps on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (achilles) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Bears WR Devin Hester (calf) took practice reps on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Texans TE Joel Dreessen (shoulder) took practice on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad (ankle) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Redskins WR Santana Moss (knee) took practice reps on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Patriots WR Randy Moss (not injury related) took practice reps on Thurs after not practicing Wed.

Bucs TE Kellen Winslow (knee) took practice reps on Thurs after being limited on Wed.

Bills TE Jonathan Stupar (knee) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Falcons K Matt Bryant (right hamstring) took some limited practice on Thurs after not practicing on Wed.

Atiyyah Ellison (knee), John Henderson (shoulder), Torry Holt (hand), Marcedes Lewis (head) and Rashean Mathis (groin) did not practice for the Jaguars.

Tight end Tony Gonzalez hopes he can play this week and get the four catches he needs to reach 1,000 for his career.

"Yeah, that's part of the motivation," said Gonzalez, who's battling back from calf injury. "It's a milestone. It's a great milestone. I would love to be able to get it done this year."

Gonzalez, running back Michael Turner (ankle), linebacker Curtis Lofton (shoulder/hamstring), defensive tackle Thomas Johnson (knee), wide receiver Eric Weems (head) and Peprah (hamstring) did not practice.

Falcons kicker Matt Bryant returned to practice Thursday after attending his father's funeral in Bridge City, Texas, on Tuesday.

Hines Ward did not practice again today and it's possible he could miss his first game in two seasons. He has two hamstring injuries. Defensive end Brett Keisel (stinger) also did not practice. Troy Polamalu went through another limited practice and appears he will not play Sunday, missing his seventh straight game with a sprained PCL.

The Saints held seven players out of practice Thursday -- tailback Pierre Thomas (ribs), receiver Lance Moore (ankle), tight end David Thomas (calf), linebacker Jonathan Vilma (knee), safety Darren Sharper (knee), safety Usama Young (sports hernia) and defensive end Bobby McCray (back).
Ten others were limited -- cornerback Jabari Greer (sports hernia), cornerback Randall Gay (concussion), linebacker Scott Shanle (concussion), defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis (knee), tight end Jeremy Shockey (toe), tight end Darnell Dinkins (foot), guard Jahri Evans (toe), offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod (wrist), tailback Lynell Hamilton (shoulder) and long snapper Jason Kyle (back).

Payton did not give any indication of which players will play or how long they'll stay in the game. But he did suggest that he would like to get Greer some live snaps at Carolina. Greer has missed the last seven weeks with a groin/sports hernia injury and said Wednesday that he wants to get back on the field this week rather than have an extra week of rest.

Payton was also asked specifically about Vilma's injury, which he said is just a case of lingering soreness, but not a new injury or setback.

Vikings HC Brad Childress on hope of resting players Sunday: "Perfectly speaking, we’d like to. But, we’re not even considering that...."

Panthers QB Matt Moore returned to full practice Thursday.

The Ravens are ending the year on a good note as no player was missing from the portion of practice open to the media Thursday.

Free safety Ed Reed (strained groin), linebacker Terrell Suggs (sprained ligament in right knee/thigh), wide receiver Derrick Mason (knee) and defensive end Trevor Pryce (illness) took part in practice after all four missed Wednesday's session.

Linebacker Tavares Gooden (groin) and offensive tackle Oniel Cousins (knee) were also present despite being limited Wednesday. But Cousins wore a brace on his left knee and stood on a sideline while the rest of the offensive line completed its individual drills.

Linebacker Jarret Johnson (left shoulder/back/knee), offensive tackle Jared Gaither (lower back stiffness/foot) and rookie safety K.J. Gerard (thigh) -- all of whom practiced fully on Wednesday -- were active Thursday.

Coach Caldwell says the Colts will carry two kickers on the roster for Sunday's game at Buffalo (Matt Stover and Adam Vinatieri)

Rams have no decision again on the QB this week. Keith Null and Kyle Boller splitting reps yet again.

Eddie Royal + Daniel Graham returned to practice today for the Broncos.

Michael Vick was a limited participant at practice today, his first practice since San Fran game.

Adam Kilgore, Patriots beat writer for the Boston Globe, joined Nick Scurfield of Houston Texans.com to preview the Texans- Patriots Week 17 matchup at Reliant Stadium. Here's an excerpt of the interview.

Nick Scurfield: The big question on everyone's mind this week is what the Patriots are going to do with their starters – are they going to pull guys early, are they going to play guys like Tom Brady at all? Bill Belichick has been very coy about his plans. What do you think is going to happen?

Adam Kilgore: Yeah, he has been coy, and if I knew, then I'd be a pretty popular guy around here, too. But no one really knows for sure. I think the prudent thing and the smart thing would probably be to hold off Brady, especially after the season he's had. He's been beat up. He's still fighting through a rib injury and he's had a finger injury that seems to be better now, but for quite a few games, I think three or four games, he's had that right ring finger kind of wrapped. And that's something that going into the playoffs, there's really no reason to risk Brady. A pretty good reason for that or evidence of that would be in a Texans defensive backfield where Bernard Pollard plays know, which is kind of an interesting symmetry that Brady will face him the last week this season. Obviously, Pollard is the guy who knocked Brady out in the first week last year.

But getting back to your question, I guess because my gut tells me that just because it's smart, maybe Brady plays a quarter to keep sharp. The school of thought in the other way would be that the Patriots, even when they beat the Panthers and the Bills before they just crushed the Jaguars, they really hadn't been playing well. They played probably their best game of the season against Jacksonville. So I guess you could say that the argument for playing the guys would be to keep it rolling and kind of keep that momentum going for the playoffs, but I'm not so sure of the trade off of risking Brady and (Wes) Welker, who's caught 122 passes and taken a lot of hits this year returning punts as well, is worth that sort of momentum gathering.

The short answer: My guess is that you don't see a whole lot of the Patriots' starters, but whatever Bill Belichick thinks is right, he's going to do. Just because it's sort of the run-of-the-mill decision doesn't mean he's going to make it."

Tom Brady provided the most revealing answer yet as to how the Patriots will approach Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, saying he assumes he will play the entire game in Houston. Brady wants to play, both out of his natural competitive spirit and a desire to gather momentum after last week's performance against Jacksonville.

Brady said he shared his opinion with Coach Bill Belichick this week. "He said, 'You’ll play. Don’t worry about that. You’ll be playing,' " Brady said.

The Patriots have locked up their playoff status, vying only for the third or fourth seed. But Brady believes he will be on the field, despite having played through injruies to his right finger and ribs for several weeks.

“I expect, close game, blowout, we get behind, I’m expecting to play the whole game," Brady said. "I wouldn’t see why we wouldn’t.

“It’s our job to prepare to play, and I certainly am. I want to play, and I want to do great against a team that’s fighting for their playoff life and has a lot of great players and really challenges you in some different ways. It’s a meaningful game for us. It’s a meaningful game for them, too. It would be great for us to win on the road against a damn good team.”

49ers O.C. Jimmy Raye said WR Isaac Bruce isn't prepared to play Sunday vs. Rams. He doesn't want to "disrespect" him w/ token appearance.

There wasn’t any change on the injury front Thursday, with safety Antrel Rolle (thigh) still sitting out and kicker Neil Rackers (groin) doing a bit more but still limited. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said, assuming Rackers continues to progress, that Rackers should play Sunday against the Packers. We’ll see on Rolle. But that may depend on a game in the Metrodome three hours earlier than the Cards’ game.
“It’s going to depend on what happens in the game before us, no doubt,” Whisenhunt said. “We’ll obviously make some decisions based on how the Minnesota- Giants game goes, not only with the health of our players but certain other players. That will factor into it. You have to be smart in this game and make sure you err to the side of having a healthy team heading into the playoffs.”

The Buccaneers were without center Jeff Faine in practice on Thursday. Faine had an elbow injury last week before the Bucs game against the Saints, but the veteran center still started and played at New Orleans. Faine did not participate in Thursday's practice due to a back injury.

"Faine is sore, it is 16 weeks of injuries," Morris said.

Running back Derrick Ward (knee), guard Jeremy Zuttah (toe), and defensive tackle Roy Miller (hamstring) had limited participation in practice. Tight end Kellen Winslow (knee) had full participation. Defensive tackle Chris Hovan was out with an illness.

Miami Dolphins' tailback Ricky Williams is practicing despite injuring his right shoulder in last Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Texans.

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said Williams isn't being limited, and his status likely depends on how much contact work he's able to do.

Lex Hilliard is getting an equal amount of reps during practice, and don't be surprised if Hilliard, who scored two touchdowns against the Texans, gets an expanded role.

Hilliard had a coming out party against the Texans, catching nine passes for 74 yards, carrying three times for 12 yards, and scoring two touchdowns. But the team's 2008 sixth-round pick admitted he couldn't feel good about the performance.

Panthers still low on RBs: No Deangelo Williams, Jonathan Tyrell Stewart or Sutton Thursday. WR Muhsin Muhammad and RT Schwartz returned to practice.

Bears WR Devin Hester (calf) to have full participation in practice today.

Hamstring injury will keep Brandon Marshall out of practice today, McDaniels said. To early to know about his status for Sunday.

Falcons head coach Mike Smith said quarterback Matt Ryan returned to practice Thursday. Tony Gonzalez (calf) did not.

Rams RB Steven Jackson missed practice again Thursday. Jackson will be a game-time decision this week.

Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis has declared himself out of Sunday's game. Says it will take 1-2 weeks for his face to heal

Jets Wide receiver Braylon Edwards wasn’t lying poolside with his favorite beverage in his hand like Joe Namath all those years ago, but he all but guaranteed that the Jets would defeat the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday night at the Meadowlands and earn a playoff berth.

‘‘We won’t lose this game,’’ said Edwards Wednesday before a throng of reporters standing in front of his locker. ‘‘We want it too bad. You can just talk to the guys and get a feel. You can listen to (coach Rex Ryan’s) conviction when he talks to us.

‘‘Guys are serious about winning this game. Guys aren’t talking about New Year’s Eve. Guys aren’t talking about family. All guys are talking about is the playoffs ... beating Cincinnati. I’m convinced this team is 100 percent in. I don’t think we can lose this game from the mind-set we have right now, the attitude we have. I just don’t see it.’’

Cardinals kicker Neil Rackers has resumed practicing after missing the past two games with a right groin injury and Whisenhunt expects the Pro Bowl alternate to handle all the kicking duties against Green Bay.

When Kurt Warner isn't surveying the defense in front of him Sunday when the Cardinals play the visiting Packers at 2:15 p.m., he admitted he might be glancing up at the out-of-town scoreboard.

That will be a given, he said, if the New York Giants happened to beat the Minnesota Vikings earlier in the day.

That's because a Minnesota loss, coupled with an Arizona victory and a Dallas win over visiting Philadelphia in a game that also kicks off at 2:15, would give the Cardinals the No. 2 seed and a first-round bye in the NFC playoffs.

"It'll be hard not to look up there and see what's going on in that other game," Warner said after practice on Wednesday. "It's human nature."

If the Vikings win, however, it's pretty much a moot point. Of the eight possible playoff scenarios involving the NFC West champion Cardinals, six include them having to turn around and face the Packers again at home in the NFC wild-card round.

Should that be the case, the Cardinals probably would save some of their best game-planning for a rematch, and they might even consider resting some regulars, including Warner.

Bears Wide receiver Johnny Knox is wearing a walking boot to protect his sprained left ankle.

Cowboys receiver Miles Austin has a swollen left thumb, but he practiced Wednesday with a wrap on his hand.

Detroit Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper doesn't want to focus at his long-term future because, for all intents and purposes, his short-term success or failure in Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears could have a significant impact on his long-range goals.

While there's no official announcement yet on who will start for the Lions at Ford Field, all indications -- including Culpepper's own words -- are that the veteran quarterback will get the call.

"I'm not going to announce it," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Wednesday. "It may be later in the week and it may be Sunday."

Rookie running back Arian Foster, who rushed for 97 yards in the Texans' 27-20 victory at Miami, could start against New England on Sunday.

Coach Gary Kubiak said Foster and Ryan Moats would get more playing time than Chris Brown, who had been starting in place of the injured Steve Slaton.

“He's got a good chance,” Kubiak said about Foster starting. “I'll probably play them all.”

Brown HC Mangini: WR Brian Robiskie's status "not looking good" for Sunday. That could mean a chance for "improving" newcomer Jake Allen.

WR Antonio Bryant reiterated his desire to stay in Tampa Bay for the 2010 season, but he made no apologies for saying the Bucs failed to make him a central part of the offensive game plans this season.

"It’s not (about) me," Bryant said. "I know there's things I’m capable of doing on the field that can get other people open. We just have to find ways for other people to get me open. There’s a lot of double coverage. It’s to the point where teams don’t respond to other things happening on the field. They just keep rolling that safety over.

"We’ve been able to use that where I just go out and run a deep route and take that safety and then you have (Kellen) Winslow come underneath or (Maurice Stovall) come. So, it works to our benefit to some degree.

"But on a personal level, did I like that? No, because I couldn’t get the ball."

Giants have announced RB Brandon Jacobs and CB Aaron Ross have been placed on IR. QB Rhett Bomar + S Sha'reff Rashad signed to roster.

San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Singletary said last week there was no chance wide receiver Isaac Bruce would play in what likely will be the final game of his career, this Sunday in St. Louis against the Rams.

But those plans changed Monday when Singletary had a surprise visitor to his office: Second-year receiver Josh Morgan. It was Morgan who replaced Bruce as a starter midway through the season, first when Bruce suffered an ankle injury and then when it was decided Morgan deserved the playing time. Since that point, Bruce has been inactive for six of the last seven games and has not even practiced for the last month.

Morgan’s message to Singletary was simple and direct concerning Bruce: "He can start in front of me. I just want to see him play one last time."

So it was Wednesday, that when Singletary was asked about the potential for Bruce to play Sunday, he first said, “Strong possibility.”

When asked whether Bruce requested to play, Singletary said, “Actually, his teammates, which I think is much better. I had asked him earlier what his thoughts were on possibly playing in the game, if he thought about it or whatever. And he said, ‘Possibly not.’ Then, when I told him about his teammates asking me and inquiring about it, I think it was shocking to him. I’m excited about him finishing the way he should finish. So, I’m excited about that.”

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall is expected to play Sunday against the Chiefs, NFL Network’s Michael Lombardi reports, citing a team source.

NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora reported earlier Wednesday that Marshall hurt his hamstring during practice and would be evaluated.

The Broncos listed Marshall on their injury report as being limited in practice.

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) did not practice Wednesday as is his usual routine. With Brandon Jacobs out, Bradshaw figures to start and get a bigger workload, but the matchup is bad against the Vikings.

Saints RB Pierre Thomas (rib) missed practice Wednesday. With nothing to play for this week, we would be surprised if the Saints rushed Thomas back into action.

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall (hamstring) was limited Wednesday after suffering a pulled hamstring early in practice. Marshall came up limping after pulling the hamstring running a route. The Denver Post reports that the injury looked bad. Denver needs a win this weekend to have a realistic shot at a playoff spot. If Marshall can't go, their chances of victory take a big hit. We will monitor the situation throughout the week.

Cardinals RB Beanie Wells (groin) was limited in practice Wednesday. We will know more later in the week, but the Cardinals could have nothing to play for Sunday if the Vikings win their 1PM game against the Giants. Approach Cardinals starters with caution.

Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez (calf) did not practice Wednesday. We will know more about his status later in the week.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan (toe) did not practice Wednesday. We will know more later in the week, but tentatively expect Ryan to start again this weekend against the Bucs.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib) did not practice Wednesday. We expect Brady to return to practice later in the week and start Sunday, but the Patriots are barely motivated this week. A win would move them up to the #3 seed. Patriots coach Bill Belichick has been vague about playing starters, so approach this situation with caution. Brady did have a great game last week.

Colts RB Donald Brown (illness) missed practice Wednesday. We expect Joseph Addai to be heavily rested this week, but don't know if the resting will extend to Brown, or if the Colts will look to get Brown extra snaps against the Bills.

Cardinals K Neil Rackers (right groin) took limited reps Wednesday and could go this weekend. The Cardinals will likely keep K Mike Nugent on the roster to be safe.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) has been ruled out for week 17. Ahmad Bradshaw should get the start with Gartrell Johnson spelling Bradshaw who is not healthy enough for a full workload.

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald (elbow) took reps Wednesday. Fitzgerald has a bruised elbow and under normal circumstances would be fine to play. If the Vikings win at 1PM the Cardinals will have little to play for and Fitzgerald could see little work. If the Vikings lose, the Cardinals would be alive for the #2 seed and a first round BYE.

Raiders RB Justin Fargas (knee) missed practice Wednesday. Fargas missed last week and had his knee drained on Monday. Michael Bush and Darren Mcfadden will split carries if Fargas misses again.

Seahawks RB Julius Jones (ribs, ankle) was held out of practice Wednesday. We will wait to see if Jones can practice later in the week. Justin Forsett will likely have a larger role this weekend, much larger if Jones can't go.

Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad (ankle) missed practice Wednesday. With Steve l Smith out, Muhammad is the Panthers #1 WR for week 17. We expect him to get back to practice later in the week.

Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle) returned to limited practice Wednesday and reportedly looked good. Fitzpatrick could be in line to return to starting duties this week against an unmotivated Colts team.

Steelers RB Willie Parker (shoulder) was limited in practice Wednesday. It is being reported that Parker will not play in week 17. Rashard Mendenhall would carry a full load with Mewelde Moore acting as a change of pace back.

Ravens WR Derrick Mason (knee) missed practice Wednesday. The injury isn't believed to be serious. We will look for Mason to return later in the week.

Steelers WR Hines Ward (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. We will know more about Ward's status later in the week.

Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (achilles) did not practice Wednesday. This is standard for Stewart. Expect him to return to practice Thursday. Stewart will likely be called upon to handle a large load again this week with Deangelo Williams still hurting. Stewart has a monster day last week as the Panthers primary ball carrier.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (back) did not practice Wednesday. Jackson hurt owners with a 4pm inactive after saying he was going to gut it out for the rest of the season. Jackson warmed up but felt he would hurt the team if he tried to play. The Rams play at 1pm in week 17, but make sure you check the inactives and have a back up plan if relying on Jackson.

Falcons RB Michael Turner (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. We don't expect Turner to return for a meaningless week 17 game. Even if he does, he should not be counted on for any sort of fantasy production. Last time he returned for only 1 carry before reinjuring the ankle.

Colts WR Pierre Garcon (hand) was limited in practice Wednesday. Don't expect much out of Garcon this week even if he can return to game action. Expect even more rest out of the Colts starters this week.

Giants QB Eli Manning (foot) was limited in practice Wednesday. Manning expects to start this weekend against the Vikings.

Panthers RB Deangelo Williams (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. While not ruled out for Sunday, it seems unlikely the Panthers would rush Williams back for a meaningless week 17 game.

Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-bey (foot) returned to limited practice Wednesday. You shouldn't be relying on any Raiders receivers anyways, but if DHB returns to the field the situation will become even worse for everyone involved.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams (shoulder) took reps Wednesday. Williams hurt the shoulder in last weeks game, but it sounds like he should be okay for this weekend. We will know more later in the week.

Bucs TE Kellen Winslow (knee) was limited in practice Wednesday. Winslow is often limited early in the week. Look for him to be full speed by Friday.

Saints RB Lynell Hamilton (shoulder) took limited reps Wednesday. If Pierre Thomas is held out this week, Hamilton would likely see increased work behind Mike Bell.

Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh) did not practice Wednesday. Shiancoe has been nagged by injuries for several weeks now, but is expected to be fine for a big game with the Giants Sunday.

Bucs RB Derrick Ward (knee) did not practice Wednesday. Ward took himself out of the game in week 16 leading to a big day for Cadillac Williams. With Earnest Graham now out of the picture, Williams would see the bulk of the work if Ward can't go.

Saints TE Jeremy Shockey (toe) returned to limited practice Wednesday. Shockey has missed the last two games with turf toe and hasn't been a good option even when healthy this season. The Saints have nothing to play for this week, so we wouldn't expect Shockey to get a ton of snaps even if he plays.

Giants WR Mario Manningham (shoulder) missed practice Wednesday. We will look to see if Manningham can return to practice tomorrow.

Redskins WR Santana Moss (knee) was limited in practice Wednesday. Expect Moss to get more work in later in the week.

Jets QB Mark Sanchez (knee) took reps Wednesday. Sanchez is expected to start in a must win game for the Jets.

Saints WR Lance Moore (ankle) missed practice again Wednesday. Don't look for any production out of Moore this week.

Saints TE David Thomas (calf) missed practice Wednesday. Thomas has been filling in for Jeremy Shockey. Neither is a good play this weekend in a game that means nothing to the Saints.

Redskins WR Devin Thomas (ankle) missed practice again Wednesday. We don't expect Thomas to be available this weekend. Antwaan Randle el and Kelly Malcolm will see extra looks with Thomas sidelined.

Jets RB Thomas Jones (not injury related) did not practice Wednesday. Jones should return to practice later in the week.

Jets RB Shonn Greene (shoulder) took reps Wednesday. Greene has seen a workload increase with Thomas Jones already over 300 carries on the season.

Raiders QB Bruce Gradkowski (knees) did not practice Wednesday. Charlie Frye will get the start again this week.

Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin (foot) took reps Wednesday. Maclin played well in his return last week.

Patriots WR Julian Edelman (forearm) took reps Wednesday. Edalman could get some extra looks if the Patriots begin resting starters without much on the line.

Colts K Adam Vinatieri (right knee) took reps Wednesday. Vinatieri returned to kicking duties last week and figures to kick again this week.

Patriots WR Wes Welker (not injury related) was limited at practice Wednesday. Welker could be rested this week. The Patriots have been vague on how much their starters will play.

Patriots WR Randy Moss (not injury related) did not practice Wednesday. Moss could be rested this week. The Patriots have been vague on how much their starters will play.

Colts WR Austin Collie (not injury related) did not practice Wednesday.

Colts RB Chad Simpson (concussion) did not practice Wednesday. Simpson could get some extra touches with the Colts resting their regulars.

Colts RB Mike Hart (ankle) took reps Wednesday. Hart should see extra touches with the Colts resting their regulars.

Jaguars WR Torry Holt (hand) did not practice Wednesday. Holts status for this weekend is uncertain.

Cowboys WR Miles Austin (thumb) took reps Wednesday. Austin should be fine for week 17.

Colts RB Joseph Addai (shoulder) took reps Wednesday. Don't count on Addai for any type of production with the Colts already resting player in week 16.

Colts WR Reggie Wayne (foot) took reps Wednesday. Don't count on production from Wayne this weekend. He will likely be getting a lot of rest.

Cardinals RB Dan Kreider (neck) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Panthers QB Matt Moore (rib) was limited at practice Wednesday. Moore is expected to start the final game of the season, but is without top playmaker Steve l Smith.

Bears WR Devin Hester (calf) was limited at practice Wednesday. We will know more on Hester's status later in the week. Devin Aromashodu has filled in admirably in Hester's absence.

Lions QB Drew Stanton (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday. Daunte Culpepper is taking reps with the first team and appears to be in line to start.

Falcons K Matt Bryant (right hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. The Falcons signed K Steven Hauschka in case Bryant can't kick Sunday.

Falcons WR Eric Weems (head) did not practice Wednesday.

Cardinals TE Ben Patrick (head) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Cardinals WR Sean Morey (head) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Bears WR Johnny Knox (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Knox is not expected to play this week.

Panthers RB Tyrell Sutton (calf) did not practice Wednesday.

Bills TE Jonathan Stupar (knee) did not practice Wednesday.

Bills WR Josh Reed (ankle) did not practice Wednesday.

Browns WR Brian Robiskie (ankle) did not practice Wednesday.

Browns RB Lawrence Vickers (groin) did not practice Wednesday.

Browns RB Chris Jennings (shoulder) took reps Wednesday. Jerome Harrison appears to be the feature back after receiving 39 carries last week.

Bengals TE J.P. Foschi (neck) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Texans TE Joel Dreessen (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Texans WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Packers RB Korey Hall (elbow) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Saints TE Darnell Dinkins (foot) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Patriots TE Benjamin Watson (knee) took reps Wednesday.

Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis (cheek, head) did not practice Wednesday.

Colts TE Gijon Robinson (knee) did not practice Wednesday.

Eagles QB Michael Vick (quadricep) did not practice Wednesday.

Jets RB Tony Richardson (not injury related) did not practice Wednesday.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Saints TE David Thomas (calf) did not practice Wednesday.

Seahawks WR Nate Burleson (ankle) did not practice Wednesday and was ruled out for the week.

Steelers WR Hines Ward (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday.

Eagles WR Reggie Brown (shoulder) took reps Wednesday.

Rams WR Donnie Avery (thigh) was limited at practice Wednesday.

Panthers Running backs Deangelo Williams (ankle), Jonathan Stewart (Achilles) and Tyrerll Sutton (ankle) were among the players who didn't participate in practice. It's customary for Stewart to rest on Wednesdays.

Also sitting out: right tackle Geoff Schwartz (groiin(, cornerback Richard Marshall (ankle), ajd wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad (ankle).

Quarterback Matt Moore (rib) practiced on a limited basis.

Panthers coach John Fox didn't have much to say about his future after Wednesday's practice.

Following an Observer report earlier this week quoting sources saying the team wouldn't fire Fox, he was asked to comment.

"I've got a year on my contract. I don't get into that right now," Fox said. "My focus is to get through the season. I have an agent (who) deals with that."

Asked if it would be difficult to coach a season when he's in the final year of his contract, Fox said: "I think I just answered that."

Seahawks WR Mike Hass has been placed on injured reserve.

Patriots Tom Brady and Randy Moss not present for start of practice.

Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo did not tip hand on QB decision for Sunday vs. # 49ers. It'll either be rookie Keith Null or vet Kyle Boller.

Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick participated fully in individual position drills at practice Wednesday.

Fitzpatrick appeared to be driving off of his plant foot well after finishing his drop so it appears his ankle is feeling significantly better. We’ll get an update from interim head coach Perry Fewell after practice as to whether Fitzpatrick got most of the first team reps and whether he believes he’ll be able to start on Sunday.

Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe and DT Jimmy Kennedy weren't practicing in the portion the media was allowed to watch.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams, who is nursing a shoulder injury, practiced today & Sparano said his status depends on how he looks this week.

Saints injury report: D.Thomas (calf); P.Thomas (ribs); B.McCray (back); D.Sharper (knee), did not practice.

Seahawks RB Julius Jones, CB Josh Wilson (hip) won't practice Wednesday and are questionable.

Although nothing is official yet, Detroit Lions quarterback Daunte Culpepper took snaps with the starting offense today in the portion of practice the media is allowed to see.
Coach Jim Schwartz said on Monday that he might make a decision by today but also kept open the possibility that Culpepper and Drew Stanton would share snaps in practice and a decision on a starter would be made later in the week.
Linebacker Larry Foote (foot) and cornerback Louis Delmas (ankle) did not practice today. Foote's status is questionable at this point while Delmas will likely play Sunday against the Bears.

Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad: "This will not be my last game. It might be my last game as a Panther, ... but it will not be my last game."

Panthers RBs Williams, Stewart, Sutton, WR Muhammad and RT Schwartz held out of practice Wednesday, also CB Marshall. QB Moore limited

Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo says decision on RB Steven Jackson (back) will be made just prior to game Sunday vs. 49ers.

The way Bengals HC Marvin Lewis sounded Monday and what he went through in 2005, it is not really a question of if, but how long will he rest the starters if New England wins. A quarter? A half? The entire game?

At the very least, you figure the banged-up guys (Domata Peko, Chris Crocker, maybe Tank Johnson) don’t play at all and guys like Carson Palmer, Cedric Benson, Dhani Jones and the two corners hardly play. If they play at all.

If the Pats win, to even dress Palmer would be a risk. How do they play him at all with the seed already set? Like we said here Monday, Lewis is 0-1 in the playoffs with a backup quarterback, and after going through that I think it would be hard to play him in a game when you’ve already got a home playoff game in your pocket.

Steelers RB Willie Parker (shoulder) has been ruled out for the 1 p.m. game against the Dolphins. Tomlin said he is hopeful left guard Chris Kemoeatu (wrist) will be able to play. Kemoeatu, as well as defensive end Brett Keisel (neck) and linebacker Rocky Boiman (calf), will be limited this week in practice.

Strong safety Troy Polamalu and wide receiver Hines Ward are working toward playing Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. Whether either is healthy enough to play in the regular-season finale remains to be seen, though coach Mike Tomlin sounded more optimistic about Ward, who is nursing hamstring injuries in both legs.

Polamalu has missed six consecutive games with a strained posterior collateral ligament. He has done some straight-line running the past two days with an eye toward playing against the Dolphins.

"He's just progressing, trying to get ready, hopefully to play," Tomlin said of Polamalu at his weekly news conference. "The door's not closed on him participating."

Ward got treatment yesterday, and Tomlin checked on the 12-year veteran as he was icing both hamstrings.

"He's going to give us everything he has," Tomlin said.

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankles) not healthy enough for a full load either, Coughlin said. Get ready to see a lot of Gartrell Johnson.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs will not play this wk. He'll undergo a scope.

Bears WR Devin Aromashodu was scheduled to open the season as the third receiver until the injury pushed Johnny Knox into that role. Knox, a fifth-round pick, was named a Pro Bowl alternate on Tuesday for his work as a return man. If someone had told you before the season that a player who came to the team in the Denver deal was going to be under Pro Bowl consideration, you'd have figured it would be Cutler, not the guy taken with a pick that came in that deal.

Knox was carted off the field on Monday night and will miss the season finale in Detroit. The hope is that Hester will be back in the lineup, but clearly the rapport Cutler has with Aromashodu trumps any understanding he has with any other receiver.

Coach Lovie Smith admitted Aromashodu's performance was enough to warrant consideration as a starter in the future.

''You have to say yes to that by his play,'' Smith said. ''He's been outstanding with what he's done. But we have a number of guys that have shown us throughout the [year] that they can be the starter and be the guy that can take over a game. He definitely did that [Monday] night.''

Aromashodu understands how the process works. He has been given an opportunity. Now he has to strive for steady competen

Last season, Falcons RB Michael Turner made his fist trip to the Pro Bowl. Turner's bid to repeat was plagued by the high right ankle sprain he suffered against Carolina on Nov. 15. Turner tried to comeback early from the injury twice, but was knocked out of the first Tampa Bay game Nov. 29 and didn't last two plays against the New York Jets on Dec. 20.

Turner is 129 yards short of 1,000, but it is unclear if he will return to practice Wednesday and try to play in the regular-season finale Sunday against Tampa Bay.

Falcons Kicker Matt Bryant suffered a hamstring injury against the Bills on Sunday and experienced a death in his family. He remains on the active roster.

Kicker Steve Hauschka, who was released earlier this season by Baltimore, was signed by the Falcons on Tuesday.

Steelers HC Tomlin said RB Willie Parker (shoulder) will not practice to start the week.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told reporters Tuesday Polamalu has been doing straight-line running in his rehabilitation from a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, and could “maybe” return to practice this week. For now, he’ll be considered day to day. How Polamalu responds to the most recent workouts will determine his availability for Sunday’s crucial game against the Dolphins.

“The door isn’t closed on him participating,” Tomlin said.

Polamalu has missed the last six games — and 10 total this season — because of his troublesome left knee. He sprained the PCL in the knee on Nov. 15, after missing four games earlier this season with a torn medial collateral ligament in the same knee.

Raiders QB Charlie Frye will start at quarterback against the Ravens in the season finale this Sunday, and both he and coach Tom Cable are hoping he plays a little more like Charlie Frye this time.

Raiders RB Justin Fargas had his knee drained Monday, and Cable hopes to know more about his availability Wednesday. Langston Walker, who started at LG in Cleveland, is questionable with “a pretty good ankle sprain.” QB Bruce Gradkowski, who sprained MCLs in both knees, looks doubtful. DT Gerard Warren has sore shoulders. DE Greg Ellis is still battling a sore knee, but held up well vs. the Browns. LB Slade Norris strained his hamstring.

We checked out Patriots coach Bill Belichick’s opinion yesterday, and you had your say. On the topic of potentially resting his starters, Belichick said a day ago that he hadn’t thought about it.

What about a day later?

“That’s not really something we’ve done, and in all honesty I wouldn’t even anticipate doing it… having that discussion right now,” Belichick said. replied. “What’s going to happen now is we’re going to go through the game plan, players come in tomorrow, and everybody is going to get ready to play. That’s how we’re going to approach it.”

So, everybody is going to get ready to play. But will everybody play?

“Whoever plays, plays,” Belichick continued. “Whoever doesn’t play, doesn’t play. It’s like that every week. We could go out there the first play of the game, something could happen. Someone else could be in there. Everybody needs to be ready to go all the time.”

Not definitive. But that line about “whoever plays, plays” makes me think some starters will not. Or I could be reading too much into it…

The Falcons signed PK Steven Hauschka

Last night was a huge win for the Bears and Eagles. Now, all Philadelphia Eagles needs to clinch a first-round bye is a win Sunday over Dallas Cowboys.

Coach Gary Kubiak said Arian Foster and Ryan Moats will get most of the playing time at running back against the Patriots. Foster carried 19 times for 72 yards and a touchdown against Miami.

“I think they're going to play more than Chris (Brown), just from a standpoint of the job they're doing,” he said. “Arian took a big step in the right direction.”

– Falcons kicker Matt Bryant, who suffered a hamstring injury on Sunday, went home to Texas after the game because of the death of his father.

kicking situation, but are expecting punter Michael Koenen, who suffered a concussion, will be cleared to play this week.

"Our kicker had a death in his family over the weekend, so he is not here today," Falcons coach Mike Smith said. "His father passed over the weekend. I don't have an update on where Matt is (health-wise).

"Michael, we think he's going to be fine. It's just a matter of seeing how he feels over the next couple of days."

Cable began his news conference with a requisite reliving of Sunday's 23-9 loss in Cleveland, then said he expected Charlie Frye to start at quarterback again when Baltimore visits the Coliseum in the season finale Sunday.

If Jamarcus Russell has something to prove, he probably won't get a chance until next season. Cable and the Raiders can't sacrifice the meager dignity of finishing at 6-10, which would be the team's best record since 2002, to the lost cause of cultivating a No. 1 draft pick who did little but regress when he held the starting job.

"I think this is a big game for this team," Cable said, "and as I said when I made this switch (away from Russell) initially, (it gives) us the best chance to win."

Asked whether the Raiders would be playoff-bound if they had received an average or better performance from their quarterback, Cable quietly and succinctly made the strongest statement of the afternoon: "Without even asking that question, you know that we would have."

The Indianapolis Colts held several starters and front-line players out of a loss to the New York Jets Sunday.

Bill Polian said the number could be higher Sunday.

Polian, in his 12th season as the Colts' president, said on his weekly radio show Monday that in addition to players such as CB Jerraud Powers and LB Clint Session – two of several key players missing Sunday's game – OT Ryan Diem and TE Gijon Robinson likely will miss the regular-season finale against Buffalo Sunday.

Polian listed players he expects to miss Sunday: Diem, Robinson, DE Keyunta Dawson, Powers, Session, WR Pierre Garcon and likely DE Robert Mathis and LT Charlie Johnson.

Marion Barber is a prototypical power back except for one detail – he's struggling in short-yardage situations.

In the last three games, Barber is 2-for-7 on third and fourth downs with 1 or 2 yards to go. He was 10 of 11 in those situations in the previous 12 games. In Sunday's win over Washington, Barber failed to convert four of those short-yardage situations. He was stopped at the 1 three straight times against San Diego.

Phillips said the coaches are looking at the short-yardage package to correct what has gone wrong, but he doesn't think doubt will creep in.

Barber appeared to hesitate after two of those handoffs. Phillips said Washington's Albert Haynesworth had much to do with the stops. He disagreed with a notion that the Cowboys ran finesse plays.

"We've been successful," Phillips said. "We were one of the most successful and Marion was one of the most successful guys and has been through his career, so I think we can get back to that. ... We're addressing that to make sure it doesn't happen again, or the chance of it happening will be less. We need to make those kinds of plays."

- It's not a question of if the Bengals will rest their starters in Sunday's regular-season finale against the Jets, it's how much.

For the Bengals, a lot of that could depend on the result of the New England-Houston game. If the Patriots win, then the Bengals (10-5) are locked into the fourth seed no matter what happens. But if the Texans win, the Bengals could get the third seed if they beat the Jets.

If both the Bengals and Patriots lose there is a very small chance that the Bengals could get the third seed. New England has the edge based on strength of victory.

At least early in the week, it's business as usual around Paul Brown Stadium.

"It will be another Sunday for us," coach Marvin Lewis said. "I'll make those adjustments and so forth later in the week and as we go. We're going to approach it as a game we need to win."

However, Lewis has acknowledged that he could adjust the situation after Sunday's early games.

Bills Wide receiver James Hardy saw his first game action this season and caught one pass for 9 yards.

"He did show us some things," Fewell said of Hardy. "We expect James to play this week."

Fewell said that linebacker/safety Brian Scott (concussion) is out of this week's game.

Carolina receiver Steve Smith had successful surgery Monday to re-set his broken left forearm, coach John Fox said. The coach said Smith probably would be put on injured reserve, which would open a spot on the active roster for Sunday's regular-season finale at home against New Orleans.

One possible addition could be former Appalachian State receiver Dexter Jackson, who is on the practice squad. Smith suffered the injury after he caught the ball on a 27-yard touchdown pass from Matt Moore in the third quarter. He crossed the goal line despite the fracture.

"He's a pretty tough individual," Fox said. "His finish on the touchdown was pretty unbelievable."

The Buffalo Bills won't decide on their starting quarterback for Sunday's season finale at Ralph Wilson Stadium against the Indianapolis Colts until they see how Ryan Fitzpatrick is able to practice on Wednesday.

"Fitzpatrick is still day to day," said interim head coach Perry Fewell on Monday. "We expect him to practice on Wednesday, but we'll just have to see him."

Fitzpatrick worked out before Sunday's 31-3 loss to the Falcons in Atlanta, but the Bills decided against using him in the game.

"Fitz was close Sunday, but just couldn't protect himself with turns and things like that," said Fewell. "He has until Wednesday and we think he'll be better on Wednesday. We just have to see him practice."

Brian Brohm made his first NFL start in Sunday's loss and probably would start again if Fitzpatrick is not ready.

Since the Vikings lost last night, Cardinals HC Whisenhunt will try his best to win this week. A Dallas victory over the Eagles and a Cardinals victory would give the Cardinals a No. 2 seed and a bye. The history of teams with byes in the first round hasn't been good lately ( Giants, Carolina lost last year, Dallas the year before

More likely, however, the Vikings will beat the Bears, and the Cardinals can do no better than the No. 3 seed. Then, Whisenhunt faces a difficult decision. Does he rest starters such as quarterback Kurt Warner? How about guys who could use an extra week of rest, such as cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (toe) or defensive end Darnell Dockett, who is nursing a variety of bruises and strains?

The Cardinals haven't had a week off since the bye in week four. There are a lot of players who need rest. But Whisenhunt acknowledged Monday that resting starters carries some risk. He think this offense is close to finding a good rhythm and he doesn't want to put that in jeopardy.

Bears cornerback Charles Tillman, who was taken to the hospital during Monday night's 36-30 win over the Vikings, apparently fractured his ribs, according to a league source.

Tillman's status will be updated Tuesday afternoon when Lovie Smith addresses the media, but the injury could end Tillman's season. He absorbed a helmet blow to his right side from teammate Craig Steltz. The veteran was carried off the field on a stretcher.

Bears rookie receiver Johnny Knox, who was carted off the field, might have a serious left ankle injury, although the initial word is a severe sprain.

It been reported, Bears WR Johnny Knox suffered an ankle injury on Monday night

WR Devin Hester
WR Juaquin Iglesias
SS Al Afalava
FS Kevin Payne
G Lance Louis
OT James Marten
DT Matt Toeaina
P Richmond McGee

DT Pat Williams
QB Sage Rosenfels
WR Jaymar Johnson
CB Karl Paymah
TE Garrett Mills
LB Jeremy Leman
C Jon Cooper
DE Jayme Mitchell

Vikings WR Bernard Berrian is active tonight against the Bears.

Vikings WR Percy Harvin is active tonight.

Young Lions players such as tight end Brandon Pettigrew and running back Kevin Smith likely will both start next season on the Physically Unable to Perform list. At the very least, they won't be around to practice with Stafford during the all-important offseason workouts.

Bucs head coach Raheem Morris held his Monday morning press conference at One Buc Place following Tampa Bay's 20-17 overtime win in New Orleans.

Morris announced that Bucs defensive end Jimmy Wilkerson (torn ACL) and running back Earnest Graham (torn ligament in toe) would be placed on injured reserve with their respective injuries, meaning they will miss Tampa Bay's 2009 regular season finale vs. the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.

Bucs rookie tight end Ryan Purvis will be promoted from the practice squad to the active roster, filling one of two available roster spots on Tampa Bay's 53-man roster.

Panthers coach John Fox said in his weekly news conference that wide receiver Steve Smith underwent surgery today to repair a broken left forearm and that the procedure was successful.

Fox also said he has reason to believe there's a chance leading rusher Deangelo Williams might be able to play in next Sunday's season finale against New Orleans. Williams has missed the past seven quarters of action due to an ankle injury.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs has a sore, swollen knee. "I hope its something he can overcome in a week."

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw said his foot/ankles haven't gotten worse or better. Still waiting to schedule offseason surgery

As if the loss itself to the Eagles was not bad enough for the Broncos, the team has just announced that offensive guard Russ Hochstein and wide receiver/returner Kenny Mckinley will be placed on the injured reserve list today, ending their season prematurely. Both players left during the game against the Eagles with knee injuries.

Bills starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will test his sore ankle this week to determine whether he can play in Buffalo's season finale against Indianapolis.

Saying "we think he'll be better," interim head coach Perry Fewell was optimistic that Fitzpatrick can play on Sunday after missing one game, a 31-3 loss to Atlanta this past weekend.

With Fitzpatrick and backup Trent Edwards both nursing ankle injuries, the Bills (5-10) started Brian Brohm, a second-year player, who made his NFL debut against the Falcons.

Ravens QB Troy Smith, Ohio State alum, native + Heisman winner wants playing time. He has notified the Ravens and will seek trade after play offs, SB run.

Cardinals HC Whisenhunt didn't have an update on injuries today. Receiver Larry Fitzgerald and cornerback Greg Toler have elbow contusions. Tight end Ben Patrick and Sean Morey are trying to return from concussions.

Dolphins running back Ricky Williams played one snap after leaving the game with a right shoulder injury. Williams was hurt on a carry in the third quarter. He returned to make a catch for 3 yards with three minutes left in the game, then went to the sideline. “I'm sure I'll be fine,” he said.

In his first action with the Seahawks, receiver Mike Hass suffered a dislocated shoulder early in the game. However, the trainers did strap him up and he went out and played. Mora said he does not know what the Oregon State product’s status will be for next week, and that he could need surgery at the end of the season.

Seattle coach Jim Mora said running back Julius Jones aggravated his rib injury late in the game and injured his ankle as well.

For the first time, Rams RB Steven Jackson confirmed that he does indeed have a herniated disk, a condition first reported by the Post-Dispatch two weeks ago.

"It's been a herniated disk for some time," Jackson said. "There's no surgery needed. Me playing on it doesn't make things worse. You've just got to give it time to heal."

Obviously, there's no time to let it heal in the middle of a season.

"All you can do is rest it," he said. "You can't shoot it up. You have to stabilize the muscles around it and my core — all things that I'll work on in the offseason. But like I said, no surgery is needed."

Jackson said he plans to play against the 49ers.

Carolina Panther general manager Marty Hurney, head coach John Fox and Fox's entire coaching staff will be offered the opportunity to return next season, the Charlotte Observer has learned.

Fox, whose contract will expire after the 2010 season, will not be offered an extension, however. Sources say he is scheduled to make about $6 million next season.

The return of the general manager and coaches could be a reward for upset victories the last two Sundays of Minnesota and the New York Giants.

Saints HC Payton said he was optimistic that tight end Jeremy Shockey (toe), linebacker Scott Shanle (concussion) and cornerback Randall Gay (concussion) might all be able to return to action this week.

He said Shockey's injury isn't as severe as a typical turf toe, and he was almost activated on Sunday after working out before the game. But Payton said he didn't want to risk a setback.

Payton also said that the decision to keep Shanle and Gay on the sideline was made by outside doctors. Gay said he consulted with a neurologist, but Shanle said he didn't meet with a neurologist because he never came close to practicing or playing all week.

"My symptoms got a lot better as the week went on, but just the fact that I was still having any issues at all, we didn't want to push it," said Shanle, who said the plan is to increase his activity this week, then see how he responds.

Payton didn't offer any updates on cornerback Jabari Greer (sports hernia) or receiver Lance Moore (ankle).

Saints tailback Pierre Thomas will likely be limited throughout the week with bruised ribs, and his status will likely be questionable for Sunday's game at Carolina. But fortunately for the Saints, X-rays came out negative for anything more serious.

Thomas returned briefly to Sunday's game against Tampa Bay after suffering the injury in the second quarter. But he didn't return to action after halftime.

"I told them I'll go back in at halftime, but they didn't want to take any chances," said Thomas, who said it will be up to the coaches how much he participates in practice this week.

Ralph Wilson Stadium - He was just fired at Notre Dame, after five years. Now, sources tell News 4 Sports that Charlie Weis has been contacted by the Buffalo Bills, to see if he's interested in becoming head coach.

Sources tell us the Bills made a back-channel approach to Weis in recent weeks to see if he's interested in the job. And the sources say Weis is interested. So far, it's not believed that the two sides have had a formal discussion about the Bills coaching job.

Weis was fired at Notre Dame after five years and a disappointing 35-27 record. His Fighting Irish finished 6-6 in 2009 , ending a three-year run that saw them win 16-games and lose 21.

The Falcons could be further depleted for the all important season finale in Tampa Bay.

Tight end Tony Gonzalez (calf), kicker Matt Bryant (hamstring), punter Michael Koenen (concussion) and left tackle Sam Baker (hamstring) suffered bad injuries against the Bills.

Gonzalez, Koenen and Baker did not return to action.

Bryant did come back to kick an extra point, but clearly couldn’t fully swing his leg. The Falcons likely will have to find a new kicker to close out the season.

Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis was hit and suffered a concussion on the play near the end of the first half.

Besides Lewis’ concussion, defensive lineman Atiyyah Ellison suffered a knee injury and left the locker room on crutches, and wide receiver Torry Holt suffered a right finger injury and had his hand wrapped in splint. Cornerback Rashean Mathis sat out the second half when the groin injury that has been bothering him tightened up.

The Broncos lost WR Kenny Mckinley (knee) and G Russ Hochstein (knee) to injuries.

Seahawks coach Jim Mora said RB Julius Jones aggravated a rib injury and also injured his ankle against the Packers.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams injured his right shoulder during the third quarter against the Texans and wasn’t able to return. Dolphins LB Channing Crowder injured his right foot during the first quarter and didn’t return, while OG Justin Smiley left during the fourth quarter with a knee injury.

Panthers receiver Steve Smith broke his left arm after catching a 27-yard touchdown pass from Matt Moore early in the third quarter quarter of Carolina's 41-9 victory against the New York Giants.

Smith said he broke the radius (in his forearm) after being hit by Giants safety Michael Johnson and that he definitely won't play next Sunday in the season-finale against the Saints. He said it's too early to tell if he'll be available for offseason workouts that begin next spring.

Smith had five catches for 60 yards and a touchdown Sunday. He finishes the season with 65 catches for 982 yards and seven touchdowns.

Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez strained his right calf late in the first half against the Buffalo Bills and will not return.

Gonzalez had two catches before suffering the injury, leaving him four away from 1,000 for his career. He limped off the field, obviously favoring his right leg.

Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck’s decision-making has to be a concern for Mora and his coaching staff, with Hasselbeck consistently forcing the ball into tight coverage to try to spark his team’s struggling offense the past few games.

With 16 interceptions this season, Hasselbeck has thrown as many interceptions as touchdown passes.

Mora even admitted he considered pulling Hasselbeck out against Green Bay.

“I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say it crossed my mind,” Mora said, when asked if he considered replacing Hasselbeck with Seneca Wallace at quarterback. “But once again, I think it’s really important at this point in our development and where we (are) as we’re in trying to fix this thing, is we always put the guys out there that give us the best chance to win, and have a successful down. And Matt’s our quarterback, and we’re going to keep him in there.”

Wide receiver Hines Ward's status for the Steelers' regular-season finale in Miami next Sunday is in question.

Ward re-aggravated the hamstring injury that has nagged him since the beginning of December, and the veteran had to take himself out of the Steelers' 23-20 win against the Ravens in the fourth quarter.

"I think when you go out there and you're not full speed or full tilt, you can cause problems out on the field," Ward said.

The good news for the Steelers regarding Ward: He said he planned to go back into yesterday's game at the end of it if the Steelers needed him.

The bad news: Ward can't say for sure that he'll be able to play against the Dolphins.

"He's just beat up," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. "We'll do the best we can to get him to the party. You know if he's got a chance, he's going to show up for this team."

RB Brandon Jacobs left yesterday’s game with what the team announced as a knee injury. Jacobs said he stiffened up because he wasn’t playing in shotgun formations during the Giants’ comeback attempt.

“I just think I need a bunch of rest and I haven’t had that opportunity to get that done,” said Jacobs, who is one game away from playing all 16 regular-season games for the first time as a starter. “I practice every day at a hard and fast pace, and it wears on you when you can’t get any rest.”

Cowboys running back Tashard Choice hurt his hand on a second-half catch but did not think it would be a problem. ..

Tight end Martellus Bennett, a pronounced free spirit, said he "matured" while being forced to sit out the last two games because of concussion-like symptoms. Bennett's personal growth remains to be seen, but he did return to a role in the offense.

Bennett reclaimed his spot in two-tight end formations. He did not catch either of the two passes thrown to him but blocked well. Bennett may have been motivated by a pregame one-on-one sermon from tight ends coach John Garrett. He took Bennett aside before warm-ups for what appeared to be, from a distance, an animated discussion.

Miles Austin left FedEx Field with his left thumb wrapped but he said it was more precautionary than anything else.

Austin said he suffered the injury on the last play of the first half. He finished with nine catches for 92 yards and has 74 catches for 1,230 yards on the season. He will find out Tuesday if he has earned his first Pro Bowl appearance.

"It's one of those things where if you get it, you get it," Austin said. "If you don't, you've still got to win games. The Super Bowl is our goal and my goal personally."

The Lions benched QB Drew Stanton in the 4th quarter and sent in Daunte Culpepper.

It has been reported RB Shonn Greene injured his right arm/ shoulder during the 4th quarter of the game against the Colts.

Colts QB Curtis Painter replaced starter QB Peyton Manning during the 3rd quarter of the game against the Jets.

Broncos WR Kenny Mckinley injured his left knee/leg during the first quarter of the game against the Eagle.

It looks like WR Brandon Stokley was ejected from the game today against the Eagles for making contact with an official.

Jaguars QB David Garrard suffered a bruised knee in today’s game.

Panthers WR Steve Smith broke his left arm during the game today.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams injured his right shoulder during the 3rd quarter of the game against the Texans.

Ravens WR Derrick Mason was shaken up during the 4th quarter of the game against the Steelers.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs left the game against Carolina in the 4th quarter with a knee injury.

Saints RB Pierre Thomas suffered bruised ribs.

Dolphins RB Ricky Williams hurt his shoulder in today’s game.

Jaguars WR Torry Holt will go in for x-rays on an injured finger.

Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez limped off the field today. This reduces his chance to reach 1,000 receptions today.

Browns FB Lawrence Vickers suffered a hip bruise during the second quarter of the Week 16 game against the Raiders.

QB Kevin O'connell
RB Chauncey Washington
LB Kenwin Cummings
G Matt Slauson
DT Ropati Pitoitua
LB Marques Murrell
DT Howard Green
QB Erik Ainge

K Matt Stover
CB Jerraud Powers
LB Clint Session
T Charlie Johnson
WR Pierre Garcon
DE Keyunta Dawson
DE Robert Mathis
QB Drew Willy

Adam Vinatieri returns as the starting kicker.

K Neil Rackers K
DB Hamza Abdullah
RB Dan Kreider
LB Will Davis
G Herman Johnson
WR Sean Morey
TE Ben Patrick
QB Brian St. Pierre

QB Mike Reilly
RB Steven Jackson
DE James Hall
DE Leonard Little
CB Quincy Butler
OT Jason Smith
T Eric Young

With Steven Jackson out, Samkon Gado and Kenneth Darby will share the load at RB. Neither is a good fantasy option.

QB Nate Davis
RB Glen Coffee
G Tony Wragge
T Chris Patrick
WR Isaac Bruce
K Joe Nedney
DB Keith Smith
CB Nate Clements

OT Corey Hilliard
OG Roy Schuening
WR Eric Fowler
CB Phillip Buchanon
LB Larry Foote
DT Joe Cohen
C Dan Gerberry

DB Reshard Langford
CB Geoffrey Pope
S Quintin Demps
G Mike McGlynn
WR Kevin Curtis
TE Martin Rucker
DT Trevor Laws
QB Michael Vick

Jeremy Maclin and Brian Westbrook are active, but should not be counted on for fantasy production.

QB Tom Brandstater
WR Eddie Royal
DB Ty Law
RB Lamont Jordan
DB Vernon Fox
RB Spencer Larsen
G Seth Olsen
DE Chris Baker

Reporting live from Pittsburgh today, ESPN confirms what we told you Friday... RB Rashard Mendenhall (hip) and backup RB Willie Parker (knee) will play today.

Panthers RB Deangelo Williams will not play today, according to league source. He was listed as doubtful.

Denver at Philadelphia: There is a chance rookie WR Jeremy Maclin will play, but backup QB Michael Vick (quad) looks to be inactive.

Buffalo at Atlanta: The Falcons plan to have QB Matt Ryan (turf toe) but probably not RB Michael Turner (ankle).

Baltimore at Pittsburgh: The winner today has a very good shot at being an AFC wild-card team. The Ravens barely beat the Steelers at home when Dennis Dixon had to start for Ben Roethlisberger (concussion), and now Big Ben is coming off that 503-yard passing performance and miracle rally against the Packers. This game will be missing the NFL's two best safeties in Troy Polamalu and Ed Reed.

TB vs. NO: The Bucs plan to rotate RBs Cadillac Williams and Derrick Ward and hope to sustain a running game in order to take some heat off rookie QB Josh Freeman, who should have a full complement of receivers for this game. Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton will both play. Look for the Saints to return to a more balanced offensive attack because the Bucs are 30th in the league against the run.

Reminder from AP: Wide receiver Eddie Royal will not play for the Denver Broncos in Sunday's game with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Backup Tyrell Sutton didn't travel and so he won't play. Jonathan Stewart is officially questionable due to his Achilles, but he's really more probable. Deangelo Williams' ankle makes him very doubtful. Backup Mike Goodson is good to go today and should dress out.

" Colts could rest Peyton Manning some: Indianapolis signed QB Drew Willy off its practice squad today."

Devin Hester is questionable for Monday's game with the Minnesota Vikings but it looks like the wide receiver will miss his third consecutive game with a left calf muscle strain.

The Bears (5-9) don't have a pressing need to get Hester on the field. He hasn't been cleared for a complete return to practice, and the forecast is for the game-time temperature to be near 20.

That means Devin Aromashodu will likely get another chance to start. He has been a popular outlet for Jay Cutler the last two weeks, being targeted for 22 passes. Aromashodu delivered vs. Green Bay but caught just two passes for 10 yards at Baltimore and three passes directed to him were intercepted.

If Hester is out, there is a chance the team could make rookie third-round draft pick Juaquin Iglesias active for the first time.

Bills banking on Brian Brohm at QB today. It's "more than likely" Brohm starts according to a team source.

Bears other starting safety, Al Afalava (knee), is questionable. WR Devin Hester (calf) also is questionable for Chicago.

The Lions officially place quarterback Matthew Stafford on the injured reserve. They have signed quarterback Patrick Ramsey to take his place on the 53-man roster. Ramsey will wear No. 14.

Ramsey has played for three teams, most notably the Redskins, where he started 24 games in four seasons. He also played with the Jets (2006) and Broncos (2007-08). Ramsey was in the Titans' preseason camp in August before he was released. He has 5,930 career passing yards, 35 touchdowns and 30 interceptions.

Stafford is scheduled for right knee surgery on Tuesday in Birmingham, Ala.

Bills WR Josh Reed (ankle) did not travel with the team to Atlanta. He is now listed as OUT for Sunday's game.

Panthers RB Tyrell Sutton (calf) stayed home, but RB Deangelo Williams traveled to NY. Still doubtful, but going means there's a chance

Rams QB Marc Bulger placed on injured reserve. WR/CB Cord Parks called up to active roster.

Curtis Painter hasn't played a down on game day, but the Indianapolis Colts quarterback has prepared with the same diligence every week of his rookie NFL season. This week was no exception.

"I don't think you really can change it," he said. "I think this week more than ever, there's the possibility."

Coach Jim Caldwell said Friday that "all healthy players" will play against the New York Jets on Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium.

But exactly whom that will include with six starters questionable or doubtful, in addition to two out, is unclear.
"I'm still not going to assign any time period," Caldwell added, leaving open the possibility that a player like quarterback Peyton Manning might play two series or two quarters or go all the way. If Painter knows, he's denying it. The Colts have approached similar situations in different fashions in recent years.

With the AFC's No. 2 playoff seed clinched and No. 1 out of reach in 2007, they played their healthy starters all the way while beating Houston 38-15 in their 15th game of the season.

Two years earlier, with the No. 1 seed locked up, Manning and select starters played only briefly the same week during a 28-13 loss at Seattle.

With the No. 1 seed in hand, at some point Sunday the Colts' 14-0 season could be in Painter's hands.

"The overall goal is to win the game no matter who's in or however long the starters play," said Painter, a sixth-round draft choice from Purdue. "Whatever, the goal is to win."

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald (knee probable) took full reps Friday. Fitzgerald said, "I want to play, and I'm going to play hard until Coach tells me otherwise. Everybody feels the same way here." Coach Ken Whisenhunt said he is not planning on resting his starters. The Cardinals are playing the Rams, but Anquan Boldin is a bit safer play. If you have both Fitz and Boldin on your team for Championship Week, congrats.

Ravens WR Mark Clayton (knee questionable) was limited in practice Friday, but expects to return this weekend. Kelley Washington (ankle probable) practiced fully Friday and also should return. Neither are good fantasy options.

Falcons RB Michael Turner (ankle questionable) continued to miss practice Friday. Turner got no work all week. Despite the questionable tag, we think it is a long-shot for Turner to get back on the field this week. Jason Snelling becomes a nice play this week with Turner out against the Bills league worst run defense. Jerious Norwood should also get some work but appears to be the second option behind Snelling.

Panthers RB Deangelo Williams (ankle doubtful) missed practice again Friday and looks like an extreme long shot to play this weekend. Jonathan Stewart (achilles questionable) practiced fully Friday and despite the questionable tag looks ready to carry the load for the Panthers. Stewart excelled in the role last week after Williams exited and is a near must start in the Panthers run-heavy attack. The Giants have been hit and miss against the run all season. Rookie Mike Goodson will likely get work as a change of pace back behind Stewart.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan (toe questionable) was limited in practice Friday. Ryan is questionable for Sunday, but after going last weekend we would expect him to get the start again. Ryan is not a good play against Buffalo's tough pass defense. Make sure to check the inactives if you do plan on using Ryan.

Raiders RB Justin Fargas (knee doubtful) did not practice this week and is extremely doubtful to play this week. It is always dangerous picking which Raiders RB will have the good day, but with only Michael Bush and Darren Mcfadden likely in the mix this week against a bad Browns run defense, either could be in line for a nice day. Michael Bush figures to get the most carries, but that is subject to change during the course of the game.

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (concussion probable) practiced fully all week and looks ready to return against the Broncos this week. It's unclear how many touches Westbrook will get, but we certainly don't expect a full workload. Stay away from the Eagles backfield if possible. Lesean Mccoy takes the biggest hit, but he hasn't been getting it done for owners anyways.

Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee probable) took full reps Friday. Johnson's value is at an all time low with Drew Stanton starting (likely for the rest of the season).

Browns RB Chris Jennings (shoulder probable) took reps Friday. It remains anybody's guess who will get more touches this week, but we have to assume it will be Jerome Harrison after huge day last week.

Broncos RB Correll Buckhalter (ankle probable) is expected to return to his normal role this week. Neither Buckhalter or Knowshon Moreno are good plays against the Eagles.

Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin (foot probable) practiced fully Friday and looks likely to return to action this week. We suggest staying away from any Eagles receivers not named Desean Jackson because after the #1 spot it will likely be a big rotation, including Jason Avant, Reggie Brown (shoulder probable) and Kevin Curtis (knee probable).

Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle questionable) took limited reps on Friday and is officially a game-time decision. It seems more likely that Brian Brohm will get the start. Avoid the Bills passing attack.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring probable) was limited in practice all week but it sounds as if he will be fine to play. Nicks faces a tough Panthers pass defense, but Eli Manning has been playing very well as of late.

Colts WR Pierre Garcon (hand out) and Anthony Gonzalez (knee out) are out for this week. Austin Collie and Hank Baskett should see extra work, but neither are a good start against the Jets top pass defense. If Reggie Wayne (foot probable) and Desmond Clark were to be rested later in the game, Collie would likely face Derrelle Revis, the best cover corner in the league. This matchup is really just one to avoid if possible.

Broncos WR Eddie Royal (neck, head out) will not play this week. There is not much fantasy value in the Broncos passing game this week outside of Brandon Marshall.

Colts RB Joseph Addai (knee probable) did not practice Friday or Thursday, but surprisingly is probable for this weeks contest. Addai could have a decent day against the Jets, but we have serious concern that Addai is a candidate for rest, especially with RB Donald Brown (chest probable) practicing all week and looking likely to return. Mike Hart (ankle probable) and Chad Simpson (chest probable) are also practicing fully and in the mix. Start Addai at your own risk.

Bucs WR Antonio Bryant (groin questionable) returned to full practice Friday, but is questionable to play.

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle, foot probable) did not practice all week, but is probable to play Sunday. Bradshaw has looked good lately but doesn't get enough touches to be more than a flex start. His value is highly touchdown dependent.

Steelers WR Mike Wallace (knee probable) took full reps Friday but will again be the #3 with Hines Ward (hamstring probable) also practicing fully and looking ready to go.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (back questionable) missed practice all week again, but wants to finish out the season. Jackson has been good this year, but the 4pm start means owners are taking a risk with Jackson.

Redskins WR Devin Thomas (ankle doubtful) did not practice Friday and will likely not play this weekend.

Jets QB Mark Sanchez (knee probable) took full reps Friday and is expected to start.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib probable) took reps Friday and is expected to start in a good matchup with the Jaguars.

Colts K Adam Vinatieri (right knee questionable) practiced fully all week and sounds positive about a return, but you shouldn't be relying on any kickers who are game day decisions. Matt Stover's time in Indy is coming to an end.

Colts QB Peyton Manning (glute probable) took reps Friday. It is unclear how much the Colts starters will play this week in an already tough matchup against the Jets top passing defense.

Raiders TE Zach Miller (concussion questionable) is questionable to return from his concussion this week.

Saints RB Reggie Bush (hamstring probable) was limited at practice Friday but sounds likely to return to action this week after leaving last week's game with severe cramping. The Saints could have a big day on the ground against the Bucs but the backfield is crowded with a healthy Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell.

Eagles QB Michael Vick (quadricep questionable) did not practice all week and is a long-shot to play this weekend. You shouldn't be starting Vick, but Donovan Mcnabb owners can breathe a sigh of relief if Vick is inactive.

Seahawks RB Julius Jones (rib questionable) took full reps Friday, but is questionable against the Packers. After practicing fully, we would expect him to start, but you will need to check the gameday inactives. Justin Forsett would get a bump if Jones can't go, but neither is a good option against a tough Packers defense.

Cardinals K Neil Rackers (right groin out) did not practice Friday and has been ruled out. Mike Nugent will kick again for the Cardinals.

Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall (hip probable) took full reps Friday and will start this weekend with RB Willie Parker (knee probable) playing his normal backup role.

Bucs RB Derrick Ward (knee questionable) took limited reps on Friday and will be a game-time decision. Ward is never someone to count on.

Saints WR Lance Moore (ankle out) will not play this week. Moore's return consisted of one seven yard TD catch.

Bills WR Josh Reed (ankle questionable) was limited at practice Friday after taking full reps earlier in the week. Reed is not a fantasy option.

Ravens TE Todd Heap (chest probable) took reps Friday. Heap should start for the Ravens.

Saints TE Jeremy Shockey (toe questionable) was limited at practice Friday. With David Thomas in the mix, Shockey is no longer a great play even if he gets the start.

Raiders QB Charlie Frye (concussion probable) is expected to get the start this week, but you shouldn't be considering him for fantasy purposes.

Jets WR Braylon Edwards (knee probable) took full reps Friday and is expected to start against the Colts this weekend. The Jets need to win, and the Colts could begin to rest some players this week. Braylon is not a great option, but has been making enough plays lately to at least warrant fantasy consideration.

Lions WR Dennis Northcutt (groin questionable) was limited at practice Friday.

Browns K Phil Dawson (left hamstring probable) took reps Friday.

Panthers RB Tyrell Sutton (calf doubtful) did not practice Friday.

Panthers QB Matt Moore (shoulder questionable) took full reps Friday after being limited earlier in the week. Moore is expected to start, but the questionable tag means there's a chance A.j. Feeley could get the call. Neither is a fantasy option.

Patriots RB Fred Taylor (ankle questionable) was limited at practice Friday. Taylor may return this week but his role will likely be very limited.

Jaguars WR Torry Holt (not injury related) took reps Friday.

Texans TE Joel Dreessen (shoulder probable) took reps Friday.

Texans WR Andre Davis (finger questionable) was limited at practice Friday.

Giants QB Eli Manning (foot probable) took reps Friday.

Patriots TE Ben Watson (knee probable) took reps Friday.

Patriots WR Julian Edelman (forearm probable) took reps Friday.

Patriots WR Sam Aiken (shoulder probable) took reps Friday.

Seahawks WR Nate Burleson (ankle doubtful) did not practice Friday.

Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-bey (foot out) will not play this weekend.

Giants K Lawrence Tynes (right hamstring probable) was limited at practice Friday.

Giants TE Darcy Johnson (shoulder) did not practice Friday and was ruled out for the week.

49ers RB Michael Robinson (shoulder probable) took reps Friday.

49ers RB Glen Coffee (hamstring doubtful) took reps Friday.

Seahawks WR Ben Obomanu (hamstring questionable) was limited at practice Friday.

Bucs TE Kellen Winslow (knee probable) took reps Friday.

Bucs WR Michael Clayton (knee questionable) took reps Friday.

49ers K Joe Nedney (left hamstring out) will not kick this week. Ricky Schmitt will get his first NFL start.

49ers WR Isaac Bruce (ankle doubtful) took reps Friday.

Redskins TE Todd Yoder (toe probable) took reps Friday.

Bruce Gradkowski is still holding out hope that the MCL's in each of his knees will be healed enough that the journeyman quarterback-turned-Raider Nation folk hero can play in the finale on Jan. 3 at the Coliseum against Baltimore.

"I'm feeling better," Gradkowski said. "It's crazy how much better you can feel in a week. I feel a lot better. Not as good as I want right now. The doctors are kind of surprised how fast I'm moving along. I'm not where I need to be to play just yet, but I'm getting there. Just got to take it day by day."

Josh Cribbs, who now owns the most kickoff returns for touchdowns in NFL history with eight — thanks to two returns in Sunday's win at Kansas City — started the season with visions of lining up at wide receiver.

His role on offense eventually evolved into him being inserted at running back or quarterback in the team's Wildcat package, which has been used to varying degrees, depending upon the opponent.

Now, there's recent talk about the possibility of Cribbs trying out on the other side of the ball at safety, where his speed and anticipation on defense also could make an impact.

''I would think about it,'' Browns coach Eric Mangini said. ''I've always taken this mindset with players: often times in high school they play everything; in college there's some guys who carry over and when you get to pro football, it is so specialized that very rarely do you see other guys play other spots . . . But if they have those skill sets, why not use that? It takes a special guy to do that.''

Asked if Cribbs has a good defensive mindset, Mangini was quick to answer.

''Oh yeah, yeah,'' the coach said. ''He's a physical tackler, he's very aggressive, and has good ball skills and he'd be great with interceptions to return a pick. I don't think it's going to happen short term, but it could be something that evolves.''

Other Ravens who were questionable are: defensive tackle Justin Bannan (illness), wide receiver Mark Clayton (knee), defensive tackle Kelly Talavou (knee), tight end Edgar Jones (back).

The Ravens who are probable: wide receiver Demetrius Williams (knee), linebacker Jarret Johnson (knee), center Matt Birk (neck), wide receiver Justin Harper (foot), tight end Todd Heap (chest), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata ( ankle), tight end L.j. Smith (ankle) and wide receiver Kelley Washington (ankle).

The only Ravens who didn't practice were Reed, Gaither and Gooden.

The Ravens have three starters - safety Ed Reed (groin), offensive tackle Jared Gaither (foot) and linebacker Tavares Gooden (groin) - who are listed as doubtful for Sunday's game at Pittsburgh.

Reed, who didn't practice all week, ran off to the side with his helmet on before practice. Asked about Reed's recent visit to a specialist, coach John Harbaugh said it was good news because it confirmed the team's treatment.

"We have a very good handle on what it is," Harbaugh said Friday. "It's going to be a matter of him being able to go as soon as he can, which could be as early as Sunday. It's really one of those wait-and-see injuries."

Harbaugh said placing Reed on injured reserve is "not in the equation."

Tom Zbikowski is expected to replace Reed for the fourth straight week.

Though speculation about Jake Delhomme's future with the Carolina Panthers ratcheted up after he was placed on injured reserve Thursday, the team's position on him remains the same, according to general manager Marty Hurney.

"This move doesn't change anything about his future," said Hurney. "We feel the same about Jake as we did yesterday before we put him on I.R. We've made it clear we have confidence in Jake."

Delhomme became the 11th Panthers player on injured reserve, one day after testing the broken finger on his right (throwing) hand in practice and realizing he wasn't healed enough to practice or play.

So his season was brought to a close with two games remaining - but that doesn't mean he won't return next year.

Panthers QB Matt Moore is listed as questionable on the injury report with a shoulder injury, but is expected to start. Still, he was limited in practice on Thursday which means there is at least some level of discomfort there. He’s coming off his best game, throwing for 299 yards and three touchdowns against the Vikings but will be playing in chilly conditions which won’t help matters. And, he’ll face a defense that ranks 10th in the league against the pass but is 26th in the league in points allowed.

Panthers leading rusher Deangelo Williams didn't practice for the third straight day and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.

Williams suffered a left ankle injury near the end of the first quarter of last week's win over Minnesota.

Also doubtful after missing a third straight day of work is running back Tyrell Sutton (calf).

If neither can go Sunday, the Panthers are expected to start Jonathan Stewart and to have rookie Mike Goodson as the backup.

Stewart is listed on the injury report as questionable due to his sore Achilles, but he fully participated in today's practice.

Also questionable with full participation today: quarterback Matt Moore (shoulder) and cornerback Richard Marshall (ankle).

Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, who has a turf toe injury, was limited in practice on Friday and was listed as questionable on the injury report for Sunday’s 1 p.m. game against Buffalo at the Georgia Dome.

Running Michael Turner did not practice all week, but is listed as questionable. Cornerback Chris Houston did not practice all week and is listed as doubtful.

Defensive end Jamaal Anderson (chest), defensive tackle Jonthan Babineaux (shoulder), left tackle Sam Baker (elbow, hamstring), guard Harvey Dahl (ankle), linebacker Curtis Lofton (shoulder, hamstring) and safety Charlie Peprah (hamstring) were all listed as questionable.

Also, Anderson and Peprah did not practice on Friday.

DOUBTFUL: WR Nate Burleson (ankle), LB Aaron Curry (stinger).
QUESTIONABLE: WR Ben Obomanu (hamstring), RB Julius Jones (rib).

The Eagles' offense should have both running back Brian Westbrook and receiver Jeremy Maclin on the field for Sunday's game with the Broncos.

Westbrook's reps figure to be monitored closely in his first game action since Nov. 15 at San Diego.

"We're not going to expect him to play every play, the whole game," head coach Andy Reid said. "There's certain things we're going to do with him both in the run game and in the pass game. We'll just see how his numbers go and how he feels.

"I'll stay in communication with him during the game. He's always shot me straight, so I will have trust in him if he continues to do that. He will have a chance to play, we just have to see how he does. I'm just going to check on him and see how he's doing as we go."

Westbrook was full-go all three days this week as the team practiced inside on the turf and Reid said "he's done well."

Meanwhile, Maclin's return means the team could potentially have all five of its receivers healthy and on the active gameday roster.

"We have the option to do that if needed. That's something I'm looking at now," Reid said. "That's a good position to be in, especially with the quality of guys that we have."

Maclin missed last week's game with a nagging foot injury, while veteran Kevin Curtis saw his first action since Week 2. Curtis caught one pass last week against San Francisco.

The Eagles' offense, however, could be without the services of quarterback Michael Vick, who did not practice this week because of a painful quad contusion. Vick is officially listed as questionable for the game.

"We're still working with him to see if he can come around and be able to give us something on Sunday," Reid said. "I don't want to put him out there if he's going to hurt himself."

The Bucs are banged up heading into their contest against their NFC South division rival - the New Orleans Saints. Several Bucs players are questionable for Sunday's contest, including C Jeff Faine, WRs Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton, S Tanard Jackson and RB Derrick Ward.

The Giants were hoping for a healthy bunch of players on Christmas Day, but instead they got the injury-report equivalent to a stocking full of coal.

Right tackle Kareem McKenzie (knee), guard Rich Seubert (knee), cornerback Corey Webster (knee) and corner/safety Aaron Ross (hamstring) did not practice Friday and are listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Panthers. That means the Giants will take to the field against Carolina with William Beatty at tackle for McKenzie and Kevin Boothe at left guard for Seubert.

The following players are listed as probable: QB Eli Manning (foot) RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankles/foot), LBs Michael Boley (triceps), Jonathan Goff (hamstring/rib) and Chase Blackburn (ribs), WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring), S C.C. Brown (hamstring) and K Lawrence Tynes (right hamstring). Nicks was limited Friday and Bradshaw did not practice. Everyone else practiced fully.

Two New Orleans Saints players have been ruled out for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay -- receiver Lance Moore (ankle) and safety Usama Young (sports hernia).

Six players are questionable -- safety Darren Sharper (knee), cornerback Jabari Greer (sports hernia), cornerback Randall Gay (concussion), linebacker Scott Shanle (concussion), defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis (knee) and tight end Jeremy Shockey (toe).

Of that group, only Shanle was held out of practice Friday. He didn't practice all week. Both he and Gay need to be cleared by an independent neurologist, in addition to team decision-makers, before they can play.

Sharper returned to practice on a limited basis Friday, which is a good sign. Gay practiced on a limited basis Thursday and Friday. Greer, Ellis and Shockey practiced on a limited basis all week.

Everyone else on the Saints' injury report is listed as probable -- tailback Reggie Bush (hamstring), offensive tackles Jermon Bushrod (thumb) and Jon Stinchcomb (knee), guard Jahri Evans (toe), center Jonathan Goodwin (ankle), tight end Darnell Dinkins (foot), linebackers Jonathan Vilma (knee) and Scott Fujita (knee) and defensive end Bobby McCray (back).

The Colts issued the game status/injury report for Sunday’s game with the following players listed as probable: RBs-Joseph Addai (personal/knee), Donald Brown (chest), Mike Hart (ankle) and Chad Simpson (chest), DBs-Antoine Bethea (foot), Aaron Francisco (ankle), Tim Jennings (ankle) and Jacob Lacey (biceps), LB-Gary Brackett (foot), OTs-Ryan Diem (foot) and Tony Ugoh (knee), QB-Peyton Manning (glute), OG-Jamey Richard (shoulder) and WR-Reggie Wayne (foot).

Listed as questionable for Sunday’s game are: DB-Melvin Bullitt (shoulder), DEs-Dwight Freeney (abdomen) and Robert Mathis (quad) and K-Adam Vinatieri (right knee), while OT-Charlie Johnson (foot) and LB-Clint Session (knee) are listed as doubtful.

Listed as out are: DE-Keyunta Dawson (knee), WR-Pierre Garcon (hand) and DB-Jerraud Powers (hamstring).

With Broncos receiver Eddie Royal and linebacker Spencer Larsen out and cornerback Ty Law a game-time decision, the Broncos need to get contributions from players who haven't seen much time this season.

Royal has started all season at receiver, albeit with very disappointing numbers. Jabar Gaffney becomes the second receiver, and Brandon Stokley will get more playing time as the third option. Despite barely playing more of the year, Stokley has 284 yards and three touchdowns. Royal has 345 yards and no touchdowns.

Steelers safety Troy Polamalu will not play this weekend, according to a league source.

Polamalu has been out most of the season with a knee injury. He spoke earlier this week about it being doubtful he would return, and has now been ruled out.

Polamalu has been concerned about the knee. Team doctors had him targeted to play last week against Green Bay. But he informed the team last Wednesday that he was not comfortable and ended up sitting out that game as well.

The Steelers host Baltimore Sunday in a game that is crucial for both AFC North rivals as they seek a playoff spot.

WR Dominique Edison
RB Javon Ringer
RB Alvin Pearman
CB Roderick Hood
LB Keith Bulluck
T Troy Kropog
TE Craig Stevens
DE Jevon Kearse

QB Charlie Whitehurst
DB Dante Hughes
RB Michael Bennett
S C.J. Spillman
DE Jacques Cesaire
C Eric Ghiaciuc
WR Craig Davis
LB Kevin Burnett

Luke Lawton of the Oakland Raiders has been suspended without pay for the team's next four games -- the final two games of the 2009 regular season and the first two games of the 2010 regular season -- for violating the NFL policy on performance enhancing substances.

Lawton's suspension begins immediately. He will be eligible to return following the first two games of the 2010 regular season.

Falcons RB Michael Turner (ankle) did not practice Thursday. It would be a long shot for Turner to get on the field this weekend. If Turner is out, Jason Snelling could be a good play against the Bills league worst run defense, with Jerious Norwood also in the mix.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) has been placed on season ending IR. Drew Stanton has been named the starter for week 16 after Daunte Culpepper was poor over his two starts. Stanton shouldn't be relied on for fantasy production.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan (toe) took limited reps Thursday and is on track to play again this weekend.

Panthers RB Deangelo Williams (ankle) missed practice again Thursday. Jonathan Stewart (achilles) practiced fully Thursday and will be a good start against the Giants if Williams is inactive. We will know more on Friday.

Raiders RB Justin Fargas (knee) missed practice again Thursday, leading us to believe he will not be available this weekend. Michael Bush and Darren Mcfadden would split time in a nice matchup with the Browns.

Titans WR Nate Washington (ankle probable) practiced fully Thursday and is probable for Friday night's game. Washington would share targets with Kenny Britt and Justin Gage.

Colts RB Donald Brown (chest) took reps Thursday. Brown could return to action this week. It's unclear how big of a role he will return to.

Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall (hip) practiced fully on Thursday. He should be full speed for Sunday. Fellow RB Willie Parker (knee) also returned to full practice and will play a back up role.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) was limited in practice Thursday. Nicks is considered "fine."

Colts WR Pierre Garcon (hand) did not practice Thursday. It seems unlikely that the Colts would rush Garcon back for a meaningless game. Hank Baskett could see some playing time, but is not a fantasy option.

Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (ankle) missed practice again Thursday. Brian Brohm looks likely to lead the charge Sunday against the Falcons.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, right finger, rib) returned to full practice Thursday after sitting Saturday out. Expect him to be ready to go this weekend against the Jaguars.

Colts RBs Mike Hart (ankle) and Chad Simpson (chest) both took full reps Thursday and could see increased touches if the Colts elect to rest Joseph Addai.

Eagles QB Michael Vick (quadricep) missed practice again Thursday.

Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle, foot) missed practice again Thursday. We will wait and see what he can do on Friday.

Steelers WR Mike Wallace (knee) returned to full practice Thursday. Wallace should be good for Sunday, but will likely be the third WR with Hines Ward (hamstring) practicing fully Thursday as well.

Correll Buckhalter (ankle) took limited reps Thursday and says he expects to play this weekend. Knowshon Moreno will still get a lot of work, but the matchup against the Eagles is a tough one.

Redskins WR Devin Thomas (ankle) missed practice again on Thursday. Don't count on Thomas being available this weekend.

Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin (foot) took reps Thursday and is reportedly good to go for Sunday. It sounded earlier that Maclin was about done for the season. We would not start Maclin this week as anything but a very last resort with so many other receivers in the mix.

Bucs TE Kellen Winslow (knee) practiced fully Thursday. Expect him to suit up as normal this weekend against the Saints.

Saints RB Reggie Bush (hamstring) was limited in practice again Thursday. Bush said that he only suffered severe cramping last week, and all signs point to him suiting up this Sunday barring a setback.

Broncos WR Eddie Royal (neck) missed practice again Thursday. Royal is not a fantasy option.

Saints TE Jeremy Shockey (toe) was again limited in practice Thursday.

Saints WR Lance Moore (ankle) missed practice again Thursday. It may have been one and done on Moore's reunion tour last week.

Giants K Lawrence Tynes (hamstring) practiced fully Thursday and is expected to handle kicking duties this weekend against the Panthers.

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (concussion) took reps Thursday. Westbrook reportedly looked very good and sharp. It's looking like Westbrook will return to action this week, but shouldn't be counted on. Lesean Mccoy and Leonard Weaver also become very risky starts with Westbrook back.

Seahawks RB Julius Jones (rib) took reps Thursday and is expected to be fine for Sunday.

Chargers WR Legedu Naanee (foot probable) took reps Thursday.

Rams RB Steven Jackson (back) did not practice Thursday. He expects to play this weekend, but with the 4pm start there is always risk of inactivity.

Jets WR Braylon Edwards (knee) returned to full practice Thursday. Edwards should be fine to start barring setback.

Jets RB Thomas Jones (not injury related) returned to full practice Thursday after getting a day off Wednesday. Expect Jones to start as normal.

Colts WR Reggie Wayne (foot) took reps Thursday. For as long as Wayne plays Sunday, he will likely be covered by Derrelle Revis.

Panthers QB Matt Moore (right shoulder) was limited at practice Thursday. We are expecting him to start, but will know more about the shoulder on Friday. Don't consider Moore for fantasy purposes.

Browns RB Chris Jennings (shoulder) took reps Thursday. The matchup is good, but it is anybody's guess how the Browns will choose to distribute the carries. Jerome Harrison figures to get the majority after his huge day last week.

Raiders TE Zach Miller (concussion) was limited at practice Thursday. Miller has been cleared to play. We will wait for his status Friday.

Colts RB Joseph Addai (knee) did not practice Thursday after taking reps Wednesday. The mid-week downgrade usually spells trouble - especially on a team likely to begin resting players.

Cardinals K Neil Rackers (right groin) did not practice Thursday. Expect Mike Nugent to continue to kick for the Cardinals.

Cardinals TE Ben Patrick (head) did not practice Thursday.

Cardinals WR Sean Morey (head) did not practice Thursday.

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald (knee) practiced fully Thursday and should start Sunday against the Rams. Fitzgerald will likely move up in the rankings now that he is practicing fully and appears recovered from the knee.

Ravens TE Todd Heap (chest) took reps Thursday.

Ravens WR Kelley Washington (ankle) took full reps Thursday, making him likely to return this week barring setback.