Players in the News

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - QB Brett Favre (GB) says newly acquired WR Antonio Freeman looks better than ever and doesn't see any reason they won't pick up where they left off.

QB Byron Leftwich (Jac) seems to have won the team's #2 QB job over David Garrard.

QB Brian Griese (Mia) is still out with his toe injury.

QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) is still out with his wrist injury.

QB Jamie Martin (NYJ) was re-signed by the team.

QB Rich Gannon (Oak) says he will play this weekend despite hyper-extending his knee last weekend.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - QB Donovan McNabb (Phi) is taking some heat for his conservative play. Whether that prompts him to be a little more aggressive this week remains to be seen.

QB Jeff Garcia (SF) reported no problems with his injured back after last weekend's games.

QB Marc Bulger (StL) has been named the team's starting QB this week as Kurt Warner recovers from a concussion suffered last weekend. Note that Warner threw with the scout team on Wednesday. Also, head coach Mike Martz has not said that a healthy Warner will automatically return as the starting QB.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - QB Kurt Warner (StL) practiced without setback on Wednesday but will not start this week. Further, his status in future weeks is not fully known. Much depends on Marc Bulger's performance this weekend. If Bulger excels, he could keep Warner on the bench.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - QB Kurt Warner (StL) will be the team's #2 QB this weekend with Marc Bulger getting the start.

QB Steve McNair (Ten) will be limited in practice this week with a small amount of swelling in his knee. He will play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - QB Steve McNair (Ten) was able to practice without a knee brace on Friday. He will start this weekend. (once again, pay zero attention to the Titan's "official" injury report as they list everyone as questionable.)

QB Patrick Ramsey (Was) says he will play this weekend despite his sore and swollen knee.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - QB Patrick Ramsey (Was) practiced Friday and is good to go.

Running Backs

RB Musa Smith (Bal) is still out but is currently listed as day to day.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - RB Jamal Lewis (Bal) has raised the ire of Browns players by saying he plans to set the single game rushing record against them Sunday.

FB Brad Hoover (Car) hyper-extended his elbow last weekend but expects to play this Sunday.

RB Rudi Johnson (Cin) is expected to miss his 2nd straight game this weekend.

RB Quentin Griffin (Den) is practicing with the team but is not yet in game shape.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - RB Quentin Griffin (Den) is 'starting to look like he's back to normal' according to head coach Mike Shanahan and could be on the active roster this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Quentin Griffin (Den) was able to practice again on Friday.

RB Clinton Portis (Den) is fine after having his foot stepped on in last week's game.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - Detroit isn't naming a starting RB yet but "starter" is not really a big deal as Olandis Gary, Shawn Bryson and Avon Cobourne will all see action but we see Gary getting the most work by a good margin.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Kenny Watson has scheduled a workout with the Packers for sometime next week.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - FB Greg Comella (Hou) hasn't been in town long, but he will likely be on the active roster this Sunday.

RB Jonathan Wells (Hou) appears to be on the verge of returning from his turf toe injury and will likely be on the active roster this weekend.

RB Brian Allen (Ind) was waived and then re-signed to the practice squad.

RB Edgerrin James (Ind) wants far more than the 15 carries he received last week. He says he's 'getting stronger and stronger'.

RB James Mungro & Dominic Rhodes (Ind) are each nearing a recovery, but neither expects to see significant action this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB James Mungro (Ind) practiced well on Thursday and should be available for the Colts on Sunday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Dominic Rhodes (Ind) is still not fully participating in practices and likely will sit again this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala (Jac) was able to practice on Thursday and will likely play this weekend although he's still behind LaBrandon Toefield.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - FB Tony Richardson (KC) is out of the soft cast and should see an expanded role in the offense (which likely means more receptions).

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Ricky Williams (Mia) practiced Friday (probable -
ankle) and is good to go.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - RB Ricky Williams (Mia) may see the Jets move another defender up to the line following the success Houston had in defending Williams.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Michael Bennett (Min) has been told he can begin running in three weeks. Doctor's told Bennett that his foot is healing faster than expected, and he could return as early as the November 2nd game with the Packers.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - RB Doug Chapman (Min) suffered a setback in his recovery from his ankle sprain and did not practice on Thursday. This gave more reps to Onterrio Smith.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE -RB Doug Chapman (Min) was able to practice on Friday. However, he was downgraded to questionable and likely will not play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Onterrio Smith (Min) has admitted that he did not have a good week of practice before the week one game against Green Bay. He says 'it's on me to come in this week and get better.' He is slated to get that chance this weekend.

FB Charles Stackhouse (Min) signed with the Vikings.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Moe Williams (Min) will start the game this Sunday, but Onterrio Smith will get a chance to perform. If he does well, he'll stay in. If he does poorly, Williams will go back in.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - RB Ki-Jana Carter (NO) has re-signed with the team after being cut just before the season began.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - RB Deuce McAllister (NO) will see more action in the passing game. Coach Jim Haslett says, ""Our emphasis is to give Deuce the ball more in some areas in pass receiving. I would like to see him catch 60 balls or more."

RB Dorsey Levens & Ron Dayne (NYG) were both inactive last week, but Levens could be on the active roster this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - FB Jim Finn (NYG) did not practice on Thursday and could miss this weekend's game.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - FB Chris Hetherington (Oak) will not play this weekend due to his hamstring injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Brian Westbrook (Phi) has taken over the punt return duties from CB Lito Sheppard as the team feels Sheppard should concentrate fully on the starting CB job.

RB Jerome Bettis (Pit) may miss this week's game with a groin injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - RB Jerome Bettis (Pit) is looking a little better and may be available for the game this week.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Jerome Bettis (Pit) practiced Friday and it's looking to be a game time decision. But remember, we're talking about the # 2 RB for a pass oriented team now.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - RB Jerome Bettis (Pit) says he felt pretty good following practice: "I let it hang out... It felt pretty good," Bettis said. "I don't make that decision [to play]. "Ultimately, all I can do is let the coaches know I'm ready. They have to take it from there. From the way I practiced, I think they saw I felt pretty good."

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - RB Kevan Barlow (SF) was added to the injury report with a hamstring tweak, but he should be fine for this Sunday's game.

RB Mike Alstott (TB) will definitely carry the load at the end of the ballgame if the Buccaneers have the lead.

RB Michael Pittman (TB) will play this weekend after straining his shoulder last Monday night.

RB Chris Brown (Ten) is still out and listed as day to day with his hamstring injury.

RB Trung Canidate (Was) will likely start again this week but will split carries with Ladell Betts.

Wide Receivers

WR Anquan Boldin (Ari) has worked his way into the starting lineup with a huge week 1 performance. Even the Arizona coaches can't overlook someone catching 10 passes for 217 yards and 2 TDs. They did wait a few days before announcing it though so they could have been swayed by talk radio.

WR Larry Foster (Ari) sprained his ankle in last week's game and will likely miss this weekend's game.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Larry Foster (Ari) did not practice Friday and will not play this Sunday.

WR Bryan Gilmore (Ari) sprained his right knee in last week's game and may miss this weekend's game.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Bryan Gilmore (Ari) missed Friday's practice and will sit this weekend as well.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Bryant Johnson (Ari) is one of the few healthy WRs in Arizona and will start for the team this weekend.

WR Kevin Kasper (Ari) suffered a back strain in last week's game and will likely miss this weekend's game.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Kevin Kasper (Ari) did not practice on Wednesday and is looking even less likely to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Kevin Kasper (Ari) has been ruled out for the weekend's game.

WR Quentin McCord (Atl) is expected to start for the team with Brian Finneran out for 4-6 weeks with a broken hand.

WR Frank Sanders (Bal) is expected to practice this week and could play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Frank Sanders (Bal) practiced again on Friday and should be able to play this weekend. He might even be in the starting lineup.

WR David Terrell (Chi) will be given a larger role in the offense at the expense of Dez White.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR David Terrell (Chi) will see more action but has not moved into the starting lineup.

WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Cin) is expected to miss his 2nd straight game this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Chad Johnson (Cin) missed practice on Thursday with his injured ankle, but he did practice fully on Friday. He'll be able to go this weekend.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - WR Chad Johnson (Cin) should be good to go according to coach Marvin Lewis. "Everybody's fine," Lewis said.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Quincy Morgan (Cle) will likely play this weekend despite his hip injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Quincy Morgan (Cle) went full speed in Friday's practice and will be ready to play this weekend.

WR Az-Zahir Hakim (Det) did not play last week. His status for this weekend is unknown.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Az-Zahir Hakim (Det) practiced on Thursday for the first time in a month. The team is not sure if and when he will be able to play, but don't expect much (if anything) this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR David Kircus (Det) has been excused from practice for an undetermined amount of time. It seems that his Kircus' brother was charged with murdering his own wife.

WR Karsten Bailey (GB) could miss this week with his hamstring injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Karsten Bailey (GB) will definitely miss this week as he was cut to make room for Antonio Freeman and Chris Jackson who were both recently signed by the Packers.

WR Donald Driver (GB) is out this week with his head and neck injuries.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Donald Driver (GB) could conceivably return to action against Arizona on September 21st, but it is more likely that he'll return September 29th against the Bears.

WR Robert Ferguson (GB) is hobbled with knee and ankle injuries and is not expected to play this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Robert Ferguson (GB) did not practice on Wednesday, but the team still hopes he can go this weekend. They expect him to try to practice on Friday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Robert Ferguson (GB) is making nice progress. He partially participated in Friday's practice and looks like a game time decision.

WR Antonio Freeman (GB) signed with the team today and appears ready to start this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - Freeman reported to Green Bay in excellent shape. QB Brett Favre says he looks better than ever and doesn't see any reason they won't pick up where they left off.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - WR Antonio Freeman (GB) is trying to catchup quickly but it doesn't sound like it'll be as easy as Favre said. According to Packers.com he says, "It's like you broke up with your girlfriend, but you get back together a year-and-a-half later. You don't know where she's been, she doesn't know where you've been." If Robert Ferguson is held out, Freeman would start. Packers.com also said there is the issue of conditioning as Freeman didn't attend any mini-camps or training camp and hasn't taken a game rep since January. "Anybody can get up and run," Freeman said. "You can run 3 miles, you can run 20 hills, you can do all those types of training things. But until you get out there with the stop-and-go and have a defensive back bearing down on you, it's not the same."

WR Chris Jackson (GB) will be the team's #3 WR this weekend.

WR Javon Walker (GB) has moved into the starting line-up with all of the injuries at the WR position.

WR Jabar Gaffney (Hou) will start over Corey Bradford this weekend, but both will see significant action.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Brandon Stokley (Ind) did not practice Friday and will likely miss his 2nd straight game as a Colt as he has not recovered from his hamstring injury. Troy Walters will be the team's #3 WR.

WR Matt Hatchette (Jac) injured his shoulder last Sunday but still hopes to play this weekend.

WR Joe Horn (NO) suffered a bone contusion in his left knee during warm-ups before last Sunday's game. He played the game with the injury but may miss this week's contest.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Joe Horn (NO is still experiencing pain but still plans to play this weekend. He says he is a 'warrior' and will play through the pain.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Joe Horn (NO) missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday. However, he did practice on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR Ron Curry (Oak) will be the team's #3 WR for this weekend's game.

WR Jerry Porter (Oak) re-aggravated his abdominal strain in last weekend's game and pulled himself from the action. His status for this weekend is not fully known.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Jerry Porter (Oak) has now been diagnosed with a hernia and will undergo surgery for it tomorrow. Porter says the injury occurred against the Chiefs last December 28th. After an off-season of rest, it was reaggravated during training camp. Early reports have him out for 3 weeks or longer. Of course this makes Tim Brown a very viable starting WR in most leagues.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR James Thrash (Phi) was able to practice Friday with his back injury and should be fine to play this weekend.

WR Plaxico Burress (Pit) will play despite his quadriceps injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR Antwan Randle El (Pit) lost 10 yards..on Wednesday after the Elias Sports Bureau changed his sack to a running play. Don't ever think the Ravens aren't tough against the rush.

WR David Boston (SD) missed Wednesday's practice with a soft tissue injury in his heel (that means it was bruised).

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR David Boston (SD) will probably miss this week's game in order to let his heel heal. Say that real fast.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - WR David Boston (SD) missed Friday's practice so it looks even more likely that he'll miss this Sunday's game.

WR Dane Looker (StL) will be the team's 3rd WR this weekend with Kevin Curtis and Shaun McDonald both out.

WR Keyshawn Johnson (TB) suffered cramps in last week's game. There's no word on whether they affected his ability to mouth off.

WR Taylor Jacobs (Was) will sit another week so expect Darnerian McCants to again fill the #3 WR role.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - WR MarTay Jenkins (FA) failed his physical with the Cardinals and will not re-join the team.

Tight Ends

TE Mike Seidman (Car) may soon receive more playing time at the expense of starting TE Kris Mangum.

TE Dan Campbell (Dal) should play as usual on Monday despite his groin injury.

TE Billy Miller (Hou) has signed a new four-year deal with the team.

TE Wesley Walls (GB) is still not at 100% with his injured hamstring. However he did practice Wednesday and looks to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Wesley Walls (GB) practiced on Thursday and Friday and should be able to suit as the Packers' backup TE.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - TE Wesley Walls (GB) says he should be able to contribute Sunday.

TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) missed practice on Wednesday and has been declared 'questionable to probable' for this weekend's game. Take that to mean he will likely see action.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) according to coach Dick Vermeil "was gimpy today. He started out that way, so we just backed him off. We were working inside on the harder turf so we were very cautious with him." Vermeil did say that he is still expected to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) practiced on Friday and will play this weekend although like last week, he's probably not at full strength.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - TE Jeremy Shockey (NYG) may spend more time blocking than receiving this weekend as the Giants offensive line is struggling (especially RT Ian Allen).

TE Jay Riemersma (Pit) will play this weekend despite his ankle injury.

TE Stephen Alexander (SD) missed last week's game with his groin injury but should see action this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - TE Stephen Alexander (SD) 'is back and should be ready to go this week' according to head coach Marty Schottenheimer.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Stephen Alexander (SD) practiced on Friday, and the team believes he will be able to start this Sunday.

TE Eric Johnson (SF) is on target to return from his broken clavicle in seven weeks.

Warren Sapp (TB) could be used more often at the TE position. If so, it will be in goal line situations. We think he is still sulking he did not get one of those cool LCD TVs from Brad Johnson last season because he did not play offense.

TE Erron Kinney (Ten) seems to be iffy this weekend with a knee injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Erron Kinney (Ten) practiced Friday and will start for the team this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Shad Meier (Ten) should see a good deal of snaps this weekend with Frank Wycheck on the sidelines.

TE Frank Wycheck (Ten) suffered yet another concussion in last week's game. The team says he will be out for 'a while'.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - TE Frank Wycheck (Ten) did not practice on Friday and will not play this weekend.

TE Zeron Flemister (Was) expects to play this weekend despite his strained Achilles. However, the coaching staff is not so optimistic. Look for him to sit while Robert Royal starts.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - TE Zeron Flemister (Was) has been ruled out of this weekend's game.

TE Roland Williams (FA) is drawing some attention from the Buccaneers and other team even though he has not fully recovered from his knee injury.

Place Kickers & Special Teamers

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - P Dave Zastudill (Bal) is expected to play this weekend despite his thigh injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - P Todd Sauerbrun (Car) has become the league's highest paid punter with his new four-year $6 million extension.

PR R.W. McQuarters (Chi) will return punts for the team this weekend. Of course if the defense doesn't improve, McQuarters won't see much action.

KR Michael Bates (NYJ) signed with the Jets today.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - KR/PR Michael Bates (NYJ) has barely unpacked his bags in New York but will return and cover all kicks and punts this weekend.

PK Jeff Chandler (SF) scored a ton of points last weekend, but his job is still not safe. His lack of distance on his kickoffs is the main reason the team continues to audition possible replacements.

PK Gary Anderson has been signed by the Titans as the replacement for Joe Nedney (who is out with a torn ACL).

Offensive Linemen

G Leonard Davis (Ari) sprained his ankle in last week's game.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Leonard Davis (Ari) went through individual drills on Wednesday and should play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - G Leonard Davis (Ari) was able to practice again on Friday and should play this weekend.

G Travis Claridge (Atl) experienced a small separation in his left shoulder in last week's game but is expected to play this weekend.

T Todd Weiner (Atl) sprained his neck in last week's game. His status is not fully known.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - C Casey Rabach (Bal) will likely play this weekend despite his knee injury.

G Terrence Metcalf (Chi) may be available for the team this weekend as he recovers from his finger injury.

G Chris Villarrial (Chi) suffered an MCL injury in his left knee last weekend. He will miss 4 to 6 weeks. Corbin Lacina will replace Villarrial in the starting lineup.

T Willie Anderson (Cin) twice left the field last Sunday with a hamstring injury but is expected to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - T Willie Anderson (Cin) practiced on Thursday and should play this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - There are some changes in the Bengals offensive line. Rich Braham has been promoted to starting center. Former starting center Mike Goff has been moved to starting RG. Former starting RG Matt O'Dwyer has been showed the pine and will miss starting for the first time in his 55 game Bengal career.

G Larry Allen (Dal) missed a good portion of the 2nd quarter with an injured hamstring but should be ready to play this Monday night.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Larry Allen (Dal) worked with the first team on Thursday and should be able to play this Monday although he could be limited.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - G Dan Neil (Den) practiced on Thursday and Friday after missing Wednesday's session with the flu.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Eric Beverly (Det) missed Wednesday's practice.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - G Eric Beverly (Det) was able to practice fully on Thursday, but his status for this weekend is still undecided.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - C Steve McKinney (Hou) will most likely be able to play this weekend despite his knee injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - C Jeff Saturday (Ind) missed Thursday's practice with his back injury, but the team believes he'll be able to play on Sunday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - C Tim Ruddy (Mia) missed Thursday's practice but (according to head coach Dave Wannstedt) will still start this Sunday. In Ruddy's absence, Seth McKinney worked with the 1st team offense and is starting to push for the starting job.

T Luke Petitgout (NYG) should play this Monday despite the back spasms he suffered in last Sunday's game.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - T Luke Petitgout (NYG) did not practice on Wednesday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - T Luke Petitgout (NYJG did not practice on Thursday and has been downgraded to questionable. However, the team still hopes he will be able to play on Monday night.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Mo Collins (Oak) did not practice on Thursday. His status for this weekend's game is not fully known.

T Lincoln Kennedy (Oak) suffered a leg injury last weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Frank Middleton (Oak) did not practice on Thursday. His status for Sunday's game is not fully known.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Solomon Page (SD) is expected to play this weekend.

T Derrick Deese (SF) sprained his ankle, but the team believes he'll be able to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - T Derrick Deese (SF) did not practice on Thursday, but the team still believes he'll be able to play this weekend.

G Scott Gragg (SF) also sprained his ankle, but the team is not sure if he'll be able to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - G Scott Gragg (SF) was able to practice on Thursday, but he is still labeled a game-time decision.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - G Eric Heitmann (SF) sprained his left ankle in Thursday's practice and will not play this weekend.

G David Loverne (StL) will miss 3 to 4 weeks after having loose bodies and bone spurs removed from his elbow.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Benji Olson (Ten) missed practice Wednesday because his wife was giving birth. That's a fair excuse.

G Zach Pillar (Ten) has the perfect name for an offensive lineman. He also could have some cartilage separation in his ribcage and might not play this week.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - G Zach Pillar (Ten) is still very sore and looks to be a game-time decision this Sunday.

Defensive Linemen

DT Marcus Bell (Ari) sprained his right knee in last week's game.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DT Marcus Bell (Ari) is still ailing with his knee. He was limited in practice and will likely be at less than 100% this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DT Marcus Bell (Ari) did practice on Friday but will likely miss this weekend's game.

DE Fred Wakefield (Ari) suffered a light concussion in last week's game but expects to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DE Courtney Brown (Cle) practiced both on Wednesday and Thursday.

DT Gerard Warren (Cle) did not play in the last two series of last weekend's game due to cramps but should be good to go this Sunday.

DT Willie Blade (Dal) is expected to practice and play this week despite his MCL sprain.

DT Daryl Gardener (Den) will not play this week with his wrist injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DT Daryl Gardener (Den) was able to practice some Friday, but he is still definitely out this weekend.

DE Gary Walker (Hou) will likely miss another week with his shoulder sprain.

DE Dwight Freeney (Ind) will play this weekend despite his shin bruise.

DE Brad Scioli (Ind) will likely play all season with soreness in his right shoulder.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DE Paul Spicer (Jac) has practiced all week and will be ready to play this weekend despite his ankle injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DT Henry Ford (NO) practiced on Wednesday for the first time in over a month but will not be active this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DT Henry Ford (NO) practiced again on Thursday but still is very unlikely to see action this weekend.

DE Charles Grant (NO) will play this weekend despite his calf injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DE Charles Grant (NO) did not practice on Wednesday but still expects to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DE Charles Grant (NO) got in some work on Thursday but did not practice fully. He is still expected to play this weekend.

DE Darren Howard (NO) will miss up to three months with a dislocation in his right wrist.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DE Willie Whitehead (NO) will start for the injured Darren Howard.

DT Johnathan Sullivan (NO) will play this weekend despite his wrist strain.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DT Hollis Thomas (Phi) will start this Sunday at DT for Darwin Walker (who is starting at DE for the injured Brandon Whiting).

DE Jerome McDougle (Phi) is still out.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - DT Corey Simon (Phi) was able to practice on Friday with his arm injury and should be able to play this weekend.

DE Brandon Whiting (Phi) suffered a hamstring injury in last Monday's game. His status is not fully known, but it looks like Darwin Walker will be starting in Whiting's spot this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DT Jimmy Kennedy (StL) is missing practice with an infected turf burn. That can't be good.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DT Ryan Pickett (StL) got some work in on Wednesday and should try to go this weekend despite his ankle injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DE Greg Spires (TB) practiced on Wednesday and expects to play this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - DE Ellis Wyms (TB) practiced on Wednesday and expects to play this weekend.

Linebackers

LB LeVar Fisher (Ari) suffered a light concussion in last week's game but expects to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB LeVar Fisher (Ari) was able to practice on Friday and should play this Sunday.

LB Will Overstreet (Atl) will likely miss this week's game with a shoulder injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Will Overstreet (Atl) has recovered nicely and should be able to go this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - LB Sam Rogers (Atl) was able to practice on Wednesday and could play this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - LB Dan Morgan (Car) may miss this weekend's game after suffering a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Dan Morgan (Car) missed Friday's practice and looks like he'll miss this weekend's game.

LB Brian Simmons (Cin) missed the 2nd half of last Sunday's game but should be able to play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Rob Morris (Ind) has been added to the injury report as probable, but he should be able to play this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - LB Zach Thomas (Mia) was downgraded to questionable today with bruised ribs. Thomas says he only feels pain when he breathes, laughs or coughs but 'won't have a problem' playing this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Zach Thomas (Mia) practiced on Thursday and Friday. Barring an unforeseen setback, he will start this weekend.

LB Ted Johnson (NE) will be out for 8 to 10 weeks with a broken foot.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - LB Bill Romanowski (Oak) suffered a concussion in last week's game against the Titans. He's listed as questionable for this weekend, but we believe he will play. When was the last time he played with a full deck anyway?

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Bill Romanowski looks good to go for Sunday.

LB Joey Porter (Pit) is nearing a recovery from the gunshot he suffered in preseason. What's remarkable is that he's not officially 'out' on this week's injury report. However, he does not expect to play just yet. He did have enough spunk to be close to fighting Ray Lewis in the parking lot of last week's game though. How's that for intensity?

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - LB Joey Porter (Pit) was running on his own during practice Wednesday, but don't look for him to play this weekend as the team does not want to rush him back too quickly.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - LB Chad Brown (Sea) was limited in practice on Friday with his foot injury, but the team expects him to be able to play this weekend.

LB Shelton Quarles (TB) is expected to miss another 6 to 8 weeks.

LB Rocky Calmus (Ten) is still out with his hamstring injury but could soon return to practice.

Defensive Backs

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Justin Lucas (Ari) missed Friday's practice and will likely not play this weekend.

CB Ray Buchanan (Atl) sprained his right thumb in last week's game. His status is not fully known.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Keion Carpenter (Atl) will miss this weekend's game with his hamstring injury.

S Cory Hall (Atl) has a chance to play this weekend against the Redskins.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Cory Hall (Atl) missed practice on Thursday and will not see action this weekend due to his knee injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Kevin McCadam (Atl) is the likely starter at free safety for the Falcons this weekend.

CB Tod McBride (Atl) had pins removed from his broken thumb on Monday and could play this weekend.

CB Corey Fuller (Bal) strained his quadriceps last Sunday but expects to play this weekend. He is listed as day to day.

CB Tom Knight (Bal) is expected to see his first action of the season this weekend.

CB Derek Ross (Dal) is hopeful of returning to practice this week but will not play this weekend.

CB Alex Molden (Det) signed with the team this week.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Darren Sharper (GB) did not practice Wednesday and was limited both in Thursday's and Friday's sessions. He hopes this limited work will let him play longer on Sunday despite his groin injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Idrees Bashir (Ind) bruised his hip during Thursday's practice. He missed Friday's session, but the team believes he will play on Sunday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Walt Harris (Ind) did not practice on Thursday with flu symptoms, but the team believes he will play this weekend.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB James Trapp (Jac) has been downgraded to questionable due to his bad ankle. He missed Thursday's practice and will likely sit this weekend.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - CB William Bartee (KC) will likely sit out this weekend with his ankle injury.

CB Sam Madison (Mia) did not practice on Wednesday, but the team hopes he will be able to go this weekend as the MRI on his ankle showed no significant damage.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Sam Madison (Mia) was not able to practice on Thursday due to his ankle injury. He was able to take part in Friday's session and it's looking like he should be able to play Sunday barring any setbacks.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - CB Sam Madison (Mia) will start this week according to coach Dave Wannstedt despite not being 100%.

S Shawn Wooden (Mia) is uncertain of his playing status for this weekend due to his hamstring injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Shawn Wooden (Mia) practiced on Friday but will be a game time decision this weekend.

S Corey Chavous (Min) will likely miss this week's game with a sprained MCL in his right knee.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Corey Chavous (Min) has been upgraded to questionable and could see action this weekend.

*** SATURDAY UPDATE - S Corey Chavous (Min) says he hopes to be able to play Sunday.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Ken Irvin (Min) is healing well from his toe injury and will play this weekend. It is also likely that he will return to the starting lineup the following game.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - S Blaine Bishop and S Devin Bush have been mentioned as possible signees for the Patriots as the team attempts to strengthen their secondary after the release of Lawyer Milloy.

S Rod Woodson (Oak) underwent surgery on Tuesday to repair a meniscus tear in his left knee. The team is not sure how long Woodson will be out.

S Brian Dawkins (Phi) was rumored to be lost for the season with a Lis Franc fracture. There has been no official word of the actual injury, but the team says he will be out 2 to 6 weeks.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Brian Dawkins (Phi) appears to have mildly sprained his Lis Franc joint. This is far milder than the rumored tear that would have kept him out for the season. The team is standing behind their prior timetable of a 2 to 6 week return.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Clinton Hart (Phi) will start this week for the injured Brian Dawkins.

CB Bobby Taylor (Phi) could play this week but will likely be out at least two weeks with a Plantar Fascia injury in his foot.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Bobby Taylor (Phi) looks to be out this week.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - CB Lito Sheppard (Phi) will start this week for the injured Bobby Taylor.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Lito Sheppard (Phi) will not return punts as the team feels he should concentrate fully on the starting CB position. RB Brian Westbrook will take those duties.

CB Tay Cody (SD) should be able to play this weekend despite his hamstring injury.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Tay Cody (SD) missed practice on Thursday and Friday and will likely miss this weekend's game.

*** FRIDAY UPDATE - CB Rashad Holman (SF) was thought to be out for a few weeks with his groin injury, but he may be able to suit up this weekend.

CB Mike Rumph (SF) is expected to play this weekend despite his shoulder injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - CB Mike Rumph (SF) will start for the team this weekend.

CB Shawn Springs (Sea) is still out with his shoulder injury.

S Jason Sehorn (StL) is still out with his foot injury.

*** THURSDAY UPDATE - S Anthony Dorsett (Oak) is still hobbled by his leg and ankle injuries (which occurred against the Titans). He believes he will play this weekend but isn't sure to what level of effectiveness.

Coaches and Other

HC Dave Wannstedt (Mia) was given '1,000 percent' support from Dolphins owner Wayne Huizenga. Footballguys.com translation: He has about a 50/50 chance of getting let go after this season and he had better start winning soon.