As expected, Seahawks WR Deion Branch (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. Coach Mora said he could be ready Thursday. They will evaluate him as the week progresses.

Seahawks WR Deion Branch (Hamstring) did not practice Wednesday.

Seahawks WR Deion Branch (hamstring questionable) will be a game time decision.

Seahawks WR Deion Branch missed practice for the third day this week. He is questionable for this week's game, which translates to a 50-50 chance he will play.

If Branch is unable to play, Ben Obomanu would be the Seahawks' No. 4 active receiver.

Seahawks WR Deion Branch (hamstring) missed a second straight practice. He looks questionable for Sunday.

Wide receiver Deion Branch is expected to play on Sunday.

Seahawks wide receiver Deion Branch didn't practice with the team Wednesday after injuring his hamstring in Monday's workout.

Branch's availability for Sunday's season opener against St. Louis is uncertain as teams don't have to indicate whether a player is out, doubtful, questionable or probable until Friday.

Branch played just eight games last year after coming back from knee surgery. He also missed five games in 2007.

On the upside, wide receiver T.j. Houshmandzadeh returned to practice for the first time in a week on Wednesday after sitting out with what coach Jim Mora had termed "general soreness."

Mora indicated prior to Wednesday's practice that neither receiver was seriously injured.

"They are fine," Mora said. "We'll see as they go through practice today. I believe that we are going to limit Deion a little bit today, but T.J.'s fine."

Seahawks WR Deion Branch (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. His status for Sunday against the Rams is uncertain.

The Seahawks used wide receiver Deion Branch as a kick returner during special teams drills on Monday. Branch appeared to suffer an injury at the end of practice, but said he was OK after the workout.

The Seahawks WR competition continues for the last couple slots. The team traditionally kept six receivers while Mike Holmgren was coach, but new OC Greg Knapp has run more two-tight-end sets during the preseason and not as many three- or four-receiver sets, so the Seahawks could get by with keeping just five wideouts.

So far, T.j. Houshmandzadeh, Nate Burleson, Deion Branch and Deon Butler are likely in, with Courtney Taylor, Ben Obomanu and Jordan Kent fighting for the last couple of spots.

Or perhaps Branch could be on his way out.

The veteran will make $5 million this season to be Seattle’s third receive r and the Seahawks have a lot of depth at the position. So they may live with five receivers and let Branch go to keep a player at a different position.