December 2008 4for4 Player News Articles

Green Bay Press Gazette: Though Packers halfback Ryan Grant's
average per carry took a huge drop from 5.1 yards a carry in 2007
to 3.9 yards this season, Thompson said Grant will be the Packers'
primary back next season. "Yeah, I'm sure he is," Thompson said.

New York Newsday's Tom Rock reports: Seven Giants sit at practice
Wednesday. And Gerris Wilkinson was not among them. The linebacker
was back on the field for practice. A cynic might suggest that
Bryan Kehl's nine tackles gave Wilkinson's health a boost. Those
who were held out: Hixon, Matthews, DeOssie, McKenzie, Tuck, RB
Brandon Jacobs and Johnson. They also signed WR Paul Raymond from
Brown to the practice squad. Finally, someone for DeOssie to talk
to. And Spagnuolo was on the field.

North County Times: Chargers WR Malcom Floyd, who suffered a
collapsed lung in the Chargers' Dec. 14 win over the Kansas City
Chiefs and hasn't played since, said he's eager to get involved in
an offense that is averaging just more than 37 points in its last
four games. "Once they took the tube out, I didn't feel any pain
or anything of that nature," said Floyd, who expects to wear extra
padding to protect his lung if he gets the green light to play.
"I'm really anxious just to be a part of this winning streak that
we're on." Floyd had emerged as one of Rivers' favorite targets
before being injured. Floyd had five-catch games against the
Atlanta Falcons and the Chiefs. He has four touchdown catches this
season. "I just hope I don't get out there and ruin the mojo," he
said with a laugh.

Atlanta Journal Constitution: With Falcons LT Sam Baker healthy
and TE Ben Hartsock on injured reserve, the Falcons have turned to
tackle Todd Weiner to line up as a blocking tight end. "It's
beneficial," Weiner said. "I play some tackle, then I go out and
play some tight end a little bit. I think it helps the overall
flow of the game. We are both playing. It's not like we are
sitting out for a long time. It's worked." Officials announce when
Weiner goes to tight end because he's an eligible receiver. But
don't expect Weiner to run any routes. "I've got some good hands,
but I can't run," Weiner said.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Steelers QB Roethlisberger also is likely to
start the next game when the Steelers open the playoffs at home.
Sources yesterday described his concussion as "mild" or "low
grade," and HC Tomlin would not rule out him practicing this week.
Roethlisberger watched Steelers practice yesterday, then left
quickly afterward without speaking to the news media. Tomlin said
his QB will continue to undergo tests but sounded optimistic
Roethlisberger will play Jan. 11. "He's doing better," Tomlin
said. "He's starting the process of taking the battery of tests
that come after one sustains a concussion. I don't know where we
are in regards to those tests. We have less urgency this time
around because we don't play on Sunday, quite honestly. "We will
proceed slowly with him because we have that luxury. But we feel
comfortable with where he is relative to Sunday and where he's
capable of being next week in preparation for our game." It was at
least Roethlisberger's 3rd concussion in 2 1/2 years. He suffered
one in his infamous motorcycle accident in June 2006 and another
in Atlanta that October. It's possible he could have had more,
because not every concussion is revealed publicly by the Steelers.

Times Picayune: Saints TE Jermey Shockey missed two regular-season
games and the playoffs of the 2007 season with a broken leg. This
season, he missed 4 games with a groin problem, which resulted in
sports hernia surgery, and an ankle sprain and had 50 catches for
483 yards and no TDs, both career lows. Payton said he thought
Shockey could get back to the production he had during his rookie
season, in 2002, when Payton was the Giants' OC, when Shockey had
74 catches for 894 yards and 2 TDs. And he said Monday that he
will participate in the Saints' offseason workout program. "I'm
going to do a lot of work with Drew (Brees)," Shockey said. "I'm
going to be here working with these guys. I haven't done that in
five or six years, and I'm not saying that I didn't make the right
decision in the past. Just here, I think it would benefit myself
and the team a lot more than it would if I was playing, doing the
one up in New York. "So I'm going to still work out in Miami,
that's the normal plan, but really show my face and come around
here a lot more than I've ever done in my whole career."

New York Post: Talks between the Jets and Cowher never advanced
past the preliminary stage. The Jets hoped to interview him for
the job sometime later this week, but late last night the team
released a statement that Cowher had rebuffed their overtures.
"After reaching out to Coach Cowher's representatives, we were
informed tonight that he is not a candidate for the position," Jet
spokesman Bruce Speight said in an e-mail. While the Jets hoped
to woo Cowher with a boatload of money, the marriage appeared to
be unlikely from the outset. Sources close to Cowher said he did
not want to have Favre as his quarterback, and that he also wanted
to bring in people he was familiar with to handle personnel. A
source familiar with Cowher's thinking said before last night's
decision came down that the former Steeler boss would have to
receive assurances from the Jets that the 39-year-old Favre no
longer was in the picture before agreeing to take control.
"There's no way he's taking Brett Favre as his quarterback," said
one person close to Cowher.

Carroll County Times: Ravens HC Harbaugh was noncommittal on the
status of rookie running back Ray Rice, who has missed the past
three games with a shin contusion on his left leg. Rice has
resumed practicing and said the swelling in his leg has subsided.
"He's doing better, but again I was hoping Ray would be back last
week," Harbaugh said. "I was hoping he'd be back the week before.
So, we continue to hope that he'll be back this week. I'm very
hopeful."

ESPN: Matt Ryan is more than the face of the sensational
turnaround by the Atlanta Falcons. He also is the best member of a
superb rookie crop, earning The Associated Press 2008 NFL
Offensive Rookie of the Year award Tuesday.

Contra Costa Times: Raiders HC Cable said none of the injuries
which caused players to leave the game Justin Fargas with an MCL
sprain, Darren Mcfadden with an ankle sprain, Marquis Cooper with
a hamstring strain and Tommy Kelly with turf toe were serious.

ESPN: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger did not stay in a
hospital overnight after receiving a concussion Sunday against
Cleveland, but it was uncertain if he will practice this week.
Roethlisberger lay on the ground for nearly 15 minutes after being
leveled by two Browns defenders and was strapped to a stretcher as
he was carried off the field. He was taken by ambulance to a local
hospital but left after tests were concluded. With a week off
before they begin practicing for their Jan. 11 divisional playoff
game, the Steelers will work out Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,
then take the weekend off. The Steelers expect Roethlisberger to
be ready for that game but probably won't rush him back to
practice with so much time off before they play again.
Roethlisberger has had at least three concussions in the last
three years. He also received one during a June 2006 motorcycle
accident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time.

TSN: Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger was at the team's practice
on Tuesday, but did not participate in any drills. Roethlisberger
left last Sunday's 31-0 win over Cleveland on a stretcher after
suffering a concussion in the 2nd quarter. Since Pittsburgh has
the week off thanks to the No. 2 seed in the AFC, HC Tomlin might
keep him out of practice on Wednesday and Thursday, also. "He's
doing better," said Tomlin. "He's starting the process of taking
the battery of tests that come after one sustains a concussion. I
don't know where we are in terms of the results of those tests. We
have less urgency this time around, because we don't have a game
this week, quite honestly. We held him out today, like we did with
James Farrior and a lot of veteran players. We're going to proceed
slowly with him because we have that luxury, but we're comfortable
with where he is relative to being ready for our next game."

Dallascowboys.com: Tony Romo suffered rib cartilage damage in the
second half of Sunday's blowout at the hands of the Eagles, just
adding to what was already a bad day for the quarterback. This was
the third straight December Romo has lost ugly to Philadelphia.
Romo was sacked three times and hit hard several more, throwing an
interception and losing two fumbles in the process. He has played
through pain for much of the season, first missing three games
with a fractured pinkie finger suffered in October, then injuring
his back against NY 2 weeks ago. The pain Sunday caused Romo to
topple over in the shower after the game. He winced while sipping
cola during his postgame press conference, and needed to be helped
off a short stage following the interview session. Team officials
had to carry his bags for him as the team boarded the buses to
leave the stadium. "I'm not sure exactly what you call it - like a
separated cartilage," coach Wade Phillips said Monday. "It pops in
and out. It did twice during the game, I guess, and then in the
shower, which causes pain."

Philadelphiaeagles.com: Eagles INJURY NOTES: Both linebacker
Stewart Bradley (ribs) and tackle Jon Runyan (knee) made it
through Sunday's game without hitch ... There will be more
question marks for Sunday in the persons of L.J. Smith (shoulder),
Victor Abiamiri (Lis Franc sprain) and Shawn Andrews (back). Reid
said Smith "is not there yet" and Abiamiri and Andrews would
"struggle" to play on Sunday.

New York Newsday: As Brett Favre leaves for his postseason hiatus
and ponders whether he wants to play one more season for the Jets,
the future Hall of Fame quarterback ought to think long and hard
about what Jets safety Kerry Rhodes said. With Favre pondering
retirement yet again, Rhodes suggested yesterday that Favre needs
to make a much quicker decision this time around. Rhodes, perhaps
the most outspoken leader on the defense and clearly one of the
most important voices in the locker room, hinted strongly that an
extended hiatus is not in Favre's interests if he does come back
in 2009. "If you want to be the leader on the team, then you come
in program and do your thing," Rhodes told me. "If he wants to
have the whole locker room, then he's got to let everyone know
that he's committed to doing this again." Favre had a cushy deal
with the Packers in his later years, rarely showing up for
offseason conditioning programs and doing the bare minimum in
preparation for the season.

ESPN: Brett Favre has been told by doctors that pain in his right
shoulder is from a torn biceps tendon and some calcification in
the area, but the Jets QB would need nothing more than
arthroscopic surgery to repair the injury, sources said. The
sources Tuesday also said the 39-year-old Favre might be able to
avoid an arthroscopic procedure altogether if he decides to play a
19th NFL season. While playing with what is described as a partial
tear of the biceps tendon, Favre contributed to the late-season
Jets collapse with 9 interceptions and only 2 TD passes in the
final 5 games. Favre has been encouraged to take as much time as
he needs before determining whether to return to the Jets.
According to a source, Favre is expected to deliberate for several
weeks, perhaps to allow New York time to hire former coach Eric
Mangini's successor. Mangini was fired Monday after 3 seasons.
Favre had complained about pain and seemed to suffer diminished
arm strength late in the season.

Indianapolis Star: Colts WR Anthony Gonzalez (hip), guard Mike
Pollak (ankle), Philip Wheeler (thigh) and wide receiver Pierre Garcon (knee) sustained injuries. Dungy said Gonzalez's injury was
probably the most serious, but Gonzalez "probably could have gone
back in if we needed him."

Denver Post: Broncos receiver Brandon Marshall today revealed he
played the entire season without much feeling in his right hand,
which he injured in March while wrestling with family members at a
Florida resort. Marshall underwent preseason surgery to repair
forearm lacerations to an artery, vein, nerve, two tendons and
three muscles, the result of falling into a home entertainment
center. "The back of my hand is still numb," Marshall said while
cleaning out his locker room at team headquarters. "I'm not going
to say I'm making excuses for myself, but maybe I didn't recover
as great as I wanted to from my hand injury ... I'm disappointed
in myself."

New York Daily News: Giants HC Coughlin sounded very optimistic
that RB Brandon Jacobs, TE Kevin Boss, DT Barry Cofield and CB
Aaron Ross will all be back on the field in time for the Giants'
playoff opener in 2 weeks. All 4 of those starters were forced to
sit out the Giants' regular-season finale in Minnesota yesterday.
Jacobs and Cofield are battling knee injuries and Boss and Ross
are battling concussions. Ross, who had a severe concussion and
didn't even make the trip to Minnesota, seemed "very good" today,
Coughlin said, and he would've been able to practice if the Giants
didn't have the day off. Boss was doing "better" too, Coughlin
said. And Cofield said after yesterday's game that he was healthy
enough to play. Jacobs is the biggest wild-card, though. Asked if
he'll be ready, Coughlin said "I hope so. That's what we're
leaning towards. We're counting on that taking place, certainly."
That was a very optimistic answer, but it was something less than
an enthusiastic "Yes!" "He's making progress and this rest will do
him good," Coughlin said. "I'd like to see him with solid practice
time as well. I'm not sure if we're going to be able to do that.
That would be the goal."

ESPN: On the same day they were knocked out of the playoff
picture, the Bears already began making player personnel decisions
for next season when quarterback Kyle Orton was proclaimed the
incumbent starter heading into training camp. ''All players will
have competition,'' Bears coach Lovie Smith said, according to
Chicago media outlets. ''Everybody's in the same group. But Kyle
is our quarterback. He has done a lot of good things for us this
year, but we all start from scratch and go from there.'' Offensive
coordinator Ron Turner felt the same and hinted Orton, because of
injury, has more productive years ahead of him. "He played really
well [in 2008]," Turner said. "It took him a while to get back in
the groove because of his ankle [injury]. I still don't think he's
100%."

St. Petersburg Times: Bucs back up QB Luke Mccown also will be a
free agent. Asked whether McCown would have a chance to compete
for the starting spot should he return to the Bucs, Gruden said,
"Yes."

ESPN: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger sustained
a concussion while being driven into the ground by two Cleveland
Browns defenders late in the second quarter of an essentially
meaningless game Sunday, but is expected to be ready for the
playoffs.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger was released
from the hospital Sunday evening with the same diagnosis doctors
gave him at Heinz Field, he sustained a concussion. Roethlisberger
did not spend the night as originally planned and was up walking
the halls at UPMC-Presbyterian shortly after he was brought there
by ambulance, according to team sources. He was injured when his
head bounced off the grass at Heinz Field hen he was tackled by
Cleveland LBrs Willie McGinest and D'Qwell Jackson with 1:49 left
in the first half of the Steelers' 31-0 victory Sunday.
Roethlisberger is expected to play when the Steelers open the
playoffs Jan. 11 at Heinz Field, although it remains in question
whether he will practice this week.

North County Times: Chargers TE Antonio Gates sprained an ankle,
but it isn't considered serious.

Dallas Morning News: Tony Romo's 3 turnovers were momentarily
meaningless Sunday night when players started yelling in the
shower after he collapsed because of the pain from a rib injury.
Athletic trainer Jim Maurer and his staff rushed into the shower
as the locker room came to a near standstill. A stretcher was
wheeled in, but Romo was eventually helped to his feet and taken
into the training room. When asked later what happened, Romo said,
"Um, you know, I was just a little banged up, I guess." Romo
waived off questions about his health just like he dismissed
another December swoon. His turnovers were a key reason why the
Cowboys had their backs to the wall. Another interception and 2
fumbles fueled the blowout loss to the Eagles. Romo fell to 5-8 as
a starter in December, and his reputation for coming up short in
big games is only getting worse. "Well, I've got to play better,"
he said. "The team's got to play better. We didn't play good this
December. That's obviously the story." As for how he'll deal with
the losses, Romo said, "I wake up tomorrow and keep living. You
just keep playing the game… I've had a lot worse happen to me than
a loss in a sporting event, that's for sure."

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals QB Carson Palmer said he threw
Thursday and Friday at practice at "pretty much 100%. He has an
inflamed throwing elbow and is trying to avoid surgery. "I've had
another MRI; I'll get the results of that back hopefully this next
week," he said. "I'll be ready to roll in the offseason and keep
throwing and keep training, hopefully, with no flaws and no
surgery, and be ready to roll into (spring on-field work)."

Times Picayune: Meeting with the media for the final time this
season, Saints HC Payton refused to definitively answer questions
about the futures of running back Deuce Mcallister and DC Gary
Gibbs. Payton told a reporter that he didn't have to answer a
question about whether McAllister would be with the team next
season, and he said that a question about Gibbs' future was
unfair. Payton also said that running back Reggie Bush recently
had arthroscopic surgery on his knee and was on crutches at the
Saints' facility in Metairie for a team meeting Monday. Defensive
end Jeff Charleston will have surgery soon on a broken hand, and
guard Jahri Evans and receiver Marques Colston might undergo
arthroscopic surgery, according to Payton.

St. Petersburg Times: Bucs free-agent quarterback Jeff Garcia will
"have an opportunity" to return next season, but the Bucs also
will look at other available quarterbacks, Jon Gruden said during
a news conference Monday at One Buc Place. "I"ve got a lot of
respect for Jeff, and, again, we'll address all these things
later," Gruden said. "Jeff will have an opportunity to come back,
I'm sure. He'll be a free agent, and we'll see who's available. We
want to get better at every position we can."

St. Petersburg Times: Bucs HC Gruden also said he would like to
see wide receivers Michael Clayton ("We like Mike Clayton," he
said) and Joey Galloway return -- under the right circumstances.
"He's got to be healthy, he's got to be an active participant,"
Gruden said of Galloway, the first Buc to record three consecutive
1,000-yard receiving seasons. "If he is, we absolutely want him
back."

Newark Star Ledger: Interestingly, both Jets owner Woody Johnson
and GM Mike Tannenbaum said emphatically that they want QB Brett Favre back. Favre is scheduled to have an MRI today on his right
shoulder. "I hope so," said Johnson when asked if he wanted Favre
back. "I just think he adds a lot to the team that is positive."

Houston Chronicle: Tight end Mark Bruener lingered on the field
with his family and played football with his kids a little longer
than he typically does. They posed for pictures near the end zone
after what was Bruener's final game as a Texan. Bruener, who only
played in two games this season, was activated for the season
finale and was named the team's honorary captain. He has spent the
last five years of his 14-year NFL career with the Texans. "I
have been enjoying every day as much as I can," said Bruener,
whose sons attended practice with him Friday.

Vikings inactives: John david Booty (third quarterback), TE
Garrett Mills, LB Dontarrious Thomas, T Marcus Johnson, DE Otis
Grigsby, WR Darius Reynaud, NT Pat Williams and DT Letroy Guion.

St. Louis inactives include: QB Brock Berlin (third quarterback),
CB Fakhir Brown, S David Roach, G Richie Incognito, T Anthony Davis, DE Eric Moore, G Jacob Bell and DT Antwon Burton.

Tampa Bay inactives: WR Dexter Jackson, QB Josh Johnson, LB Rod
Wilson, T James Lee, WR Brian Clark, DE Patrick Chukwurah, DT Greg
Peterson and Brian Griese (#3 QB).

After listing him as questionable, Lions rookie RB Kevin Smith
starts once again. The fact the Lions ruled out Rudi Johnson is
also a good sign for Smith.

Panthers inactives: Matt Moore (third quarterback), DB Quinton
Teal, LB Adam Seward, G Mackenzy Bernadeau, WR Dwayne Jarrett, WR
Kenny Moore, DT Damione Lewis and DT Maake Kemoeatu.

The Saints list RB Pierre Thomas as inactive today.

With Bills starting RB M. Lynch out, RB Fred Jackson starts for
Buffalo and he should see plenty of carries in a game that will
feature 25+ mph winds.

Packers inactives: QB Brian Brohm (3rd QB), RB Brandon Jackson, CB
Joe Porter, LB Danny Lansanah, G Nevin McCaskill, T Breno
Giacomini and DTs Anthony Toribio and Justin Harrell.

The fact WR Dwayne Jarrett is out today is decent news for
Carolina's Muhsin Muhammad. Jarrett was gettting more looks over
the middle.

NFL Network TV reports: Early word Sunday is Marshawn Lynch will
not play against the Patriots today.

Note: Titans Brandon Jones starts at WR in place of Justin Gage
(inactive).

Bills inactives: Roscoe Parrish, Marshawn Lynch, Jabari Greer,
Teddy Lehman, Jason Peters, Demetrius Bell, Jonathan Scott, J.p. Losman - 3rd QB

Giants inactives: K Lawrence Tynes, RB Brandon Jacobs, CB Aaron
Ross, LB Gerns Wilkinson, DT Leger Douzable, WR Derek Hagan, TE
Kevin Boss and NT Barry Cofield.

Bears inactives are: QB Caleb Hanie (third QB), WR Devin Aromashodu, CB Marcus Hamilton, RB Kevin Jones, G Terrence
Metcalf, DT Matt Toeaina, LB Hunter Hillenmeyer, DE Ervin Baldwin

Titans inactives: WR Justin Gage, CB Nick Harper, RB Chris Johnson, LB David Thornton, Kevin Mawae, DT Albert Haynesworth, DE
Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE Dave Ball

The Raiders will be without CB Nnamdi Asomugha. That's good news
for Jeff Garcia and the Bucs passing game. Raiders will also be
without WR Ronald Curry. At WR, Oakland starts Chaz Schilens and
Johnnie lee Higgins.

Browns inactives: DB Travis Daniels, SS Hamza Abdullah, TE Kellen Winslow, TE John Madsen, TE Darnell Dinkins, WR Paul Hubbard, LB
Leon Williams and DT Santonio Thomas

Saints inactives: Joey Harrington (third quarterback), RB Pierre Thomas, CB Michael Lehan, G Jamar Nesbit, NT Kendrick Clancy, DE
Rob Ninkovich, WR David Patten and TE Jeremy Shockey.

Colts inactives: S Bob Sanders, DB Melvin Bullitt, RB Dominic Rhodes, LB Freddy Keiaho, LB Gary Brackett, DT Eric Foster, DE
Dwight Freeney, DE Robert Mathis

Lions inactives: QB Drew Henson (3rd QB), QB Daunte Culpepper, WR
Chris Hannon, WR Travis Taylor, RB Rudi Johnson, G Junius Coston,
T Damion Cook and DE Corey Smith.

Bengals inactives: Carson Palmer is 3rd QB, Chris Perry, Kenny Watson, Levi Jones, Stacy Andrews, T.j. Houshmandzadeh, Chad Ocho
Cinco, Jason Shirley

The Bengals will be without BOTH WRs T.j. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson today.

With Pierre Thomas out, bump Deuce Mcallister and Mike Bell up a
few spots.

ESPN: Ravens wide receiver Derrick Mason, who is suffering from a
shoulder injury, will play on Sunday against Jacksonville, Ravens
coach John Harbaugh told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio on Saturday. "The
shoulder is getting better, but he's dealing with some related
spasms in his neck. We'll work those out before game time with
some deep tissue massage and he'll go," Harbaugh said. In last
week's win at Dallas, Mason caught six passes for 66 yards,
including a 13-yard touchdown, despite having to leave the game
twice after aggravating the injury. He was listed as questionable
in the team's injury report. The Ravens will qualify for the AFC
playoffs if they win or tie on Sunday.

Carroll County Times: Ravens CB Fabian Washington (toe), offensive
tackle Willie Anderson (sprained left ankle), running back Ray Rice (calf contusion), free safety Ed Reed (hamstring), cornerback
Samari Rolle (sprained ankle), linebacker Jarret Johnson (calf)
and offensive tackle Adam Terry (knee) were listed as questionable
as well as Mason. Washington didn't practice all week. "I think
they're all going to do everything they can to get out there,"
Harbaugh said. "We think they're going to be out there, but we're
not going to know until Sunday for certain guys. We'll see how it
goes. They do all want to play, there's no question about that."
Harbaugh described Rice and Anderson as game-time decisions
although Anderson has already predicted he'll play and Rice's leg
injury has improved markedly.

AP reports: The Cowboys put QB/WR Isaiah Stanback on injured
reserve because of a shoulder problem. TE Rodney Hannah moved up
from the practice squad to take his place.

Press Democrat: 49ers RB Frank Gore went through a limited
practice and is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the
Redskins. Gore looked good today while running and making cuts.
The club will likely make a game-time decision whether Gore will
play Sunday. HC Singletary said the fact he is just 22 yards shy
of 1,000 yards will have no bearing on the decision whether Gore
plays in the game. Singletary said he does not want Gore to play
unless his left ankle is completely healthy. He said his fear
would be that Gore over-compensates for his ankle injury and runs
the risk of another injury. All six 49ers players on the team's
injury report are listed as probable for Sunday's game: Gore, C
Eric Heitmann (abdomen), S Michael Lewis (abdomen), OT Adam
Snyder, S Mark Roman (knee) and LB Ahmad Brooks (back). Roman did
not practice, but he's expected to be ready to play. Brooks, Gore
and Snyder were limited. Sims will likely start at right tackle.
Brooks will not suit up for the game, Singletary said.

AP reports: Cowboys HC Phillips said running back Marion Barber
will remain a game-time decision because of a dislocated toe
that's limited him to two yards on 10 carries over the last two
games. He also missed the game before that. He was listed on the
injury report as doubtful after being limited in practice.

AP reports: Cowboys QB Tony Romo seems to be over the midweek
illness that caused him to miss a day of practice. "I think he's
feeling all right now," HC Phillips said Friday. "He was maybe a
little weak yesterday, but he's doing a lot better today. I think
he'll be ready to go." Romo was sent home with medicine to treat
flulike symptoms Wednesday. He returned to practice Thursday, and
worked out again Friday as Dallas finished preparing for a pivotal
game Sunday in Philadelphia. The Cowboys (9-6) are guaranteed a
playoff spot with a victory, certain to miss the playoffs with a
loss.

AP reports: Cowboys Tight end Jason Witten was limited, too,
because of a sprained left ankle, but is among several players
listed as probable. "I think he'll play, but to what extent we'll
have to see," Phillips said.

ESPN: In a perfect world, playoff-bound Arizona would rest its
starters in the meaningless regular-season finale against Seattle
on Sunday. Cardinals starters like Kurt Warner, seen here in
November, won't be getting Sunday off as the team tries to reclaim
momentum for the playoffs. In the Cardinals' world, the starters
will play as the NFC West champions try to pull out of a late-
season tailspin. Arizona is groping for answers after dropping
four of its last 5 games, including blowouts against Minnesota and
New England in the two weeks after it clinched its first division
title in 33 seasons. The lowly Seahawks (4-11) may be just what
the Cardinals need to find themselves. "I think the most important
thing that we have to do is play well," HC Whisenhunt said after a
chilly morning practice on Friday. "So that's what we're looking
to do." Whisenhunt is the first Arizona coach to ponder a choice
between resting his players for the playoffs or trying to keep
them sharp and risk injury. The only other time Cardinals made the
playoffs, in 1998, they slipped in as a wild-card entry on the
season's final Sunday.

Carroll County Times: Ravens Wide receiver Derrick Mason, who has
a painful dislocated left shoulder, was rested in practice again
Friday for precau-tionary reasons after not practicing all week.
He's expected to play, though, despite experiencing cramping with
his trapezius after aggravating the injury against the Cowboys.
"We pretty much had planned not to work him this week," Ravens
coach John Harbaugh said. "We were going to try to keep the
cramping out of it as much as we can. So, it's working the mental
part of [preparations]."

4for4 reports: Panthers TE Jeff King took reps Friday and will
play despite a slightly sore knee.

4for4 reports: The Browns expect to have RB/FB Lawrence Vickers
(back) available this Sunday.

Clevelandbrowns.com: The good injury news for the Browns is that
wide receiver/returner Joshua Cribbs (ankle) is listed as probable
(75-percent chance of playing) after being limited on Wednesday
(the Browns did not practice on Thursday). Because of the Browns'
depleted situation at quarterback and the fact he knows the
offense, Cribbs could get a good number of snaps under center on
Sunday as OC Rob Chudzinski tries to keep the Steelers guessing.

4for4 reports: Browns WR Joshua Cribbs took full reps Friday and
is probable with an ankle.

4for4 reports: Ravens RB Ray Rice (calf questionable) was limited
at practice Friday and remains a game time call.

4for4 reports: Broncos WR Eddie Royal (thumb) should be able to
play as normal this Sunday against SD. He took full reps for the
third consecutive day Friday.

4for4 reports: Falcons WR Harry Douglas is questionable with a toe
and shoulder situation.

Philly.com: Desean Jackson dropped four passes, including one in
the end zone during the Eagles' loss at Washington, and offensive
coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said the issue was discussed with the
rookie wide receiver. "He went through an experience there, and I
expect him to catch every football," Mornhinweg said. "He has to
let it go. Bounce back and let's get every one this week."
Mornhinweg indicated that Jackson was dealing with a second injury
besides bruised ribs that kept him out briefly during the second
half. "He was banged up… with two different types of injuries,"
Mornhinweg said. "He was on the field, and he was playing, and he
was playing fast. Now, he's got to finish. We've got to play at a
certain level when we're injured and on the field and playing. It
was a tough experience, and I expect him to do a little bit better
the next time he's banged up." Mornhinweg wouldn't say what was
bothering Jackson besides the rib injury.

Washington Post: Continuing his week-long insistence that the
Redskins will not use Sunday's game as a Petri dish for young
players, Jim Zorn said Thursday that rookie wide receiver Malcolm Kelly will almost certainly be inactive against the 49ers. All 53
of Zorn's players practiced in some capacity on Christmas Day, and
with spots on the active roster at a premium, there doesn't figure
to be room for Kelly. "I'm not gonna put him up, unless there's a
real spot for him," Zorn said. "I'm gonna have enough trouble with
the guys that are ready to do battle, trying to get the mix
right."

4for4 reports: Lions RB Kevin Smith is listed as questionable with
an ankle, but he was able to do some things again on Friday and is
expected to start.

4for4 reports: Raiders RB Darren Mcfadden (ankle) is listed as
questionable but he took all his reps this week and word is they
expect him to play.

Times Picayune: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is questionable for
Sunday's game, after missing practice for the third straight time
Friday. Thomas has been the Saints' primary running threat in
recent weeks, picking up more than 100 combined yards in five of
his last six games and at least one touchdown in each of the
Saints' last six games. But he suffered wrist and back injuries in
a win at the Lions, and missing every practice this week could be
a sign that his season is over. If Thomas cannot play, running
backs Mike Bell and Deuce Mcallister both are likely to get
carries, and Payton said he would bring running back Lynell
Hamilton up from the practice squad to the active roster. Payton
also said that cornerback Usama Young (ankle) and tackle Jammal
Brown (ankle) are probable for Sunday's game after full
participation in Friday's practice.

4for4 reports: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (wrist, back) did not
practice at all this week and is a questionable game time call. If
Thomas sits, Deuce Mcallister, Mike Bell and
Lynell Hamilton will be forced to fill in. In any case, the Saints
have made no secret about it, they're gunning to have Drew Brees
break Dan Marino's record for passing yards in a season.

Packers.com: Like a lot of young players, RB Deshawn Wynn has had
some ups and downs during his first 2 seasons, starting four games
as a rookie in '07 before being released in training camp and
landing on the practice squad this year. After not getting many
opportunities this season since being signed back to the active
roster, Wynn made his most significant contribution last Monday at
Chicago and looks to build on that on Sunday vs. Detroit. With
Brandon Jackson sidelined against the Bears because of a wrist
injury, Wynn moved into Jackson's 3rd-down role and is expected to
do so again vs. Detroit with Jackson listed as doubtful for
Sunday. "Deshawn Wynn, he hasn't had a lot of opportunities this
year, but when he has, I really like the way he's stepped up,
particularly on special teams," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said.
"He's doing some things he hasn't done a lot of in the past. He
works extremely hard. "Also with the opponent squad, a lot of that
stuff sometimes goes unnoticed. But I think Deshawn Wynn is
clearly an ascending player in our program. He had the one
opportunity in Chicago, and I think he showed what he's capable of
doing."

4for4 reports: As expected, Panthers TE Dante Rosario (illness)
got back to full reps Friday. He's probable for week 17.

Newark Star Ledger Giants Thursday's update... Ross and Wilkinson
are out, per Tom Coughlin. Boss is doubtful on the official injury
report. Cofield, RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) and RT Kareem McKenzie
(back) are questionable. Jacobs is listed as having not practiced
today, which could mean he was held out of the team portion of
practice. CB Aaron Ross (concussion), TE Kevin Boss
(ankle/concussion) and LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee) are not
practicing today. Don't expect to see any of those guys playing on
Sunday. Also, DT Barry Cofield (knee) participated in individual
drills but didn't do the team walk-through. Sounds like he might
not play, either.

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Yamon Figurs (head) should be available
Sunday.

4for4 reports: The Packers listed backup RB Brandon Jackson
(wrist) as doubtful Friday despite Jackson doing some work
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Buffalobills.com: Bills questionable for Sunday's game are
Marshawn Lynch and Kawika Mitchell. Mitchell has practiced each of
the last two days and is likely to play. Lynch did not practice on
Wednesday, but did so on Thursday before resting again on Friday
with his bruised shoulder. When asked how he felt about Lynch's
chances of playing this week as opposed to last week, Jauron said,
"about the same." Doubtful for Sunday are LB Teddy Lehman and CB
Jabari Greer is out.

4for4 reports: Bills RB Marshawn Lynch (shoulder questionable) was
limited at practice Thursday and Friday. Word is he should be able
to play. To cover yourself, treat him as a game time call.

Packers.com: For Detroit, cornerback Travis Fisher (concussion),
linebacker Ernie Sims (knee), defensive end Corey Smith
(hamstring), running back Kevin Smith (ankle) and defensive end
Dewayne White (calf) are questionable. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) and defensive tackle Chuck Darby (calf) are
probable.

4for4 reports: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is probable and will
start as normal. He looked fine at practice on Friday.

4for4 reports: Broncos WR Brandon Marshall (hip) is probable and
will start as normal Sunday night against SD. Recall if Denver
wins, they make the playoffs and clinch the AFC West Division. If
they lose they will not make the playoffs and the Chargers get in.
The Broncos should be very motivated to beat SD and the game will
be nationally televised with an 8:15 PM ET kickoff.

Milwaukee Journal: Packers WR Greg Jennings (concussion) returned
and practiced in full.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Hank Baskett (knee) is questionable for
week 17.

4for4 reports: Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee probable) took
reps Friday and is expected to start Sunday.

4for4 reports: As expected, the Colts ruled RB Dominic Rhodes
(chest) out for week 17. Joseph Addai could get the start Sunday
but he's not expected to see many game snaps. If Chad Simpson
(ankle questionable) is a go, he'll split game time with Najeh Davenport. Otherwise, Davenport could carry the load after Indy
pulls Addai. For his part, Simpson did not practice Friday.

4for4 reports: The Titans don't know if RB Lendale White (illness)
will play Sunday, but they have little reason to push him. He did
not practice Friday. Recall, Tennessee won the AFC South Division,
a first-round bye and homefield advantage in the AFC playoffs.
With nothing on the line, the Titans could very well pull all
their starters this week.

Clevelandbrowns.com: Bruce Gradkowski, who was signed Dec. 2, will
start at quarterback for the Browns after Ken Dorsey was placed
onto the Injured Reserve List with lingering effects of a
concussion suffered against the Bengals. His backup will be
Richard Bartel, who was promoted from the practice squad, where he
had been since Nov. 26.

Buffalobills.com: Heading into the season finale it does not
appear as though Bills left tackle Jason Peters or receiver/punt
returner Roscoe Parrish will play. Both are dealing with knee
injuries. Peters was unable to play last week, with head coach
Dick Jauron saying after the Denver game that he was not able to
push off his left leg in pre-game warmups. Parrish was able to
play last Sunday, but has not practiced all week.

4for4 reports: Word is the Bills will be without backup WRs James Hardy (knee) and Roscoe Parrish (knee) this Sunday.

4for4 reports: Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) is questionable but
he's not expected to do much Sunday. Jacobs did not practice today
and the Giants have already clinched the NFC East and homefield
advantage in the NFC. As a team, they have nothing to play for but
momentum and pride. Bottom line, don't count on much from Eli Manning, Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward or Kevin Boss (ankle,
concussion doubtful).

4for4 reports: 49ers RB Frank Gore (ankle) was limited at practice
Wednesday and Thursday but got back to a full workout Friday. He's
listed as probable and should start in week 17.

4for4 reports: Cardinals RB J.J. Arrington (knee questionable) was
limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday but took full practice
Friday. He's got a decent chance of playing, but they won't push
him Sunday.

4for4 reports: Cowboys RB Marion Barber (toe) is being called
questionable after taking some limited work Wednesday, Thursday
and Friday. We've been told Barber has a decent chance to dress
out against Philly, however Tashard Choice remains the Dallas RB
likely to get the most touches Sunday.

4for4 reports: Bengals starting RB Cedric Benson (ankle probable)
was limited at practice Wednesday but did full reps Friday. He has
an excellent chance of playing. Chris Perry (ankle) should also be
available to backup Benson. Ditto for backup RB Kenny Watson
(hamstring).

San Diego Tribune: Malcom Floyd could have lost more than a couple
of games Dec. 14 when he suffered a collapsed lung in KC. "If I
had gotten on the plane to fly home, the doctors told me it could
have been a life-threatening situation," the wide receiver said
Thursday after running through a "limited" practice with the
Chargers. "It had to do with the pressure change that goes with
flying in combination with the collapsed lung," Floyd continued.
"If I hadn't said anything, I'd have flown with the team and I
would not be here." Floyd said he hopes to be able to play Sunday.
"I feel great. Let's see what the doctors say," Floyd said. But
the Chargers seem more inclined to have him miss this week and be
100% for the possibility of a playoff game. "Malcom is a very
physical player," Chargers HC Turner said. "Unless he is 100%, I'm
not in position to use him. There's a good chance he'll be
watching this week." The chronology of Floyd's injury in KC could
be used as evidence of his toughness. Floyd believes he suffered
the collapsed lung during the game's first series.

Tampa Tribune: Bucs RB Earnest Graham received an early holiday
gift this week. Graham, who sustained a season-ending ankle injury
against Minnesota, was medically cleared to walk without crutches
on Tuesday. He will soon begin rehabbing his ankle in preparation
for the 2009 season. "I got to wait for it to heal," Graham said.
"Got to wait for it to heal."

Clevelandbrowns.com: It appears Browns tight end Kellen Winslow's
season is officially over. He's listed as doubtful (25-percent
chance of playing) with an ankle injury. Another tight end,
Darnell Dinkins (ribs), is questionable after not practicing
Friday for a second straight time, which may mean that rookie
Martin Rucker will play a lot on Sunday.

4for4 reports: Browns TE Kellen Winslow (ankle doubtful) isn't
expected to play in the season finale. He was unable to practice
this week.

4for4 reports: Jets WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder) is listed as
probable. The Jets starters will play as normal as they can clinch
the AFC East Division with a win and a NE loss. The Patriots
kickoff at 1PM ET and the Jets at 4PM ET. Even if NE wins, the
Jets can still clinch a playoff spot with a win and a Ravens loss.
Since the Ravens also kickoff at 4PM, Favre and company need to
get this game.

Minneapolis Star Tribune: Vikings WR Bernard Berrian had limited
participation in practice today after sitting out Wednesday's
practice because of a left ankle injury. Berrian said he initially
thought the injury was serious when he rolled it in the third
quarter last week. But it's a good sign for the Vikings that
Berrian was able to do some work in practice today.

4for4 reports: Vikings WR Bernard Berrian (ankle) is being called
questionable after resting some both Thursday and Friday. Treat
him as a game time call but he's got a better than 50-50 chance to
play.

4for4 reports: Falcons WR Michael Jenkins (shoulder questionable)
is expected to start as normal after resting Wednesday. He did
some things at practice Thursday and Friday.

Florida Times Union: Although such players as Jaguars Mike
Peterson, LT Khalif Barnes and WR Reggie Williams appear to be
almost certain to depart, there are several other players who
don't know if they'll be back. "If we sit down and have a
discussion about my future, I think it's going to be on good
terms, and we'll go from there," defensive end Reggie Hayward
said. Hayward jokingly said, "The NFL is on a shortage of having
pretty players. I have to do my part to keep the NFL pretty."

ESPN: Cowboys WRs Owens and fellow WRs Patrick Crayton and Roy E.
Williams, frustrated by a perceived lack of involvement in the
offense met separately with OC Garrett to express their concerns
about the team's offense. Since then, Crayton and Owens have said
they've seen some positive results in the way the offense is
running. Williams, however, has been frustrated as the Cowboys
have struggled, and admitted as much as Dallas readied for its
win-or-go-home game Sunday against the Eagles. Williams, who has
been dealing with a foot injury, has 17 receptions for 194 yards
and one TD since the Cowboys dealt their 1st, 3rd and 6th-round
picks to the Lions to acquire him. Cowboys HC Phillips said a
number of factors have played a role in Williams' lack of
production with the Cowboys. He came to the team at midseason and
didn't play with Romo, who was out with a finger injury, for 3
weeks, Phillips explained. And Williams' foot injury has also
affected him, Phillips said. "I think we do need to get
comfortable with him," Phillips said. "I don't think we've come to
that point. We haven't had that feel yet. But I think we will as
we go along or certainly next year." Williams said he has not been
hindered by the injury - and that he is getting open on the field.

4for4 reports: Cowboys WR Roy Williams (foot) is probable and will
play.

4for4 reports: The Bears don't expect to have backup RB Kevin Jones (hamstring) in week 17. He did not practice Friday.

4for4 reports: The Rams expect RB Steven Jackson (hamstring) to
start. He practiced fully Friday.

Pittsburgh Tribune: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger practiced for
the second consecutive day, despite a sprained ankle. He is
expected to start Sunday's 1 p.m. game against the visiting
Browns.

4for4 reports: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) is probable.
He took reps Wednesday-Friday.
Pittsburgh has a first-round bye and will be the #2 seed in the
AFC. With nothing on the line, look for the Steelers to give Byron Leftwich his share of game snaps Sunday.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Greg Lewis (knee probable) hasn't missed
practice all week.

The Browns placed quarterback Ken Dorsey on injured reserve;
signed quarterback Richard Bartel from the practice squad.

4for4 reports: Raiders WR Ronald Curry did not practice all week
due to his toe. Word is he'll sit.

4for4 reports: Cowboys QB Tony Romo (illness) did not practice
Wednesday but took full reps Thursday and Friday. He'll start
Sunday against Philadelphia.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Kevin Curtis (calf probable) hasn't
missed practice all week.

4for4 reports: Eagles TE L.J. Smith (shoulder) is doubtful after
not taking practice all week.

4for4 reports: Cowboys TE Jason Witten (ankle) did not practice
Wednesday but did more both Thursday and Friday. He should start
as normal.

4for4 reports: Raiders RB Justin Fargas (neck) is probable. He
took all his reps this week.

Bengals.com: Carson Palmer planned to throw at Friday's practice
after throwing indoors Wednesday and said there won't be a final
decision this week on his elbow injury. But he did say it
continues to feel fine, which means there still isn't a surgery
planned. During Friday's open media session, Palmer, without
wearing a helmet, threw the ball hard from 10 to 25 yards on short
drops and rollouts. On Tuesday, he participated in seven-on-seven
complete with some 40-yard throws, a period that takes place in
closed session.

4for4 reports: As fully expected, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (right
elbow) did not practice Friday and was ruled out for the week.

4for4 reports: Browns TE Darnell Dinkins (ribs) did not practice
Friday and is questionable to play.

Times Picayune: Saints TE Jeremy Shockey's season is definitely
over, after Saints Coach Sean Payton said Friday that he would
miss Sunday's finale against the Carolina Panthers. Shockey
missed practice all week with a sprained right ankle, and he will
finish the season with 50 catches for 483 yards and no touchdowns
in 12 games. Also questionable Sunday will be defensive tackle
Kendrick Clancy, who missed the game against Detroit with a pulled
hamstring and missed practice Friday.

4for4 reports: The Saints TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle) will miss week
17, ending his disappointing season.

Clevelandbrowns.com: Browns also listed as probable are Pro Bowl
nose tackle Shaun Rogers (ankle), left guard Eric Steinbach
(back), fullback Lawrence Vickers (back) and wide receiver Donte Stallworth (neck). On the injury report as well is inside
linebacker Leon Williams (knee), who is questionable.

4for4 reports: Browns WR Donte Stallworth (neck) is probable for
Sunday. He took full reps on Friday.

4for4 reports: Bengals WR T.j. Houshmandzadeh (back) took reps
Wednesday and did some partial practice Friday. He's expected to
start as normal.

Bengals.com: Bengals WR Chad Ocho Cinco (hamstring) didn't dress
and did some work on the side, but it looks doubtful he'll go.
Left tackle Levi Jones (back) wasn't on the field and looks out.
Defensive tackle Pat Sims (upper arm) and running backs Cedric Benson (ankle) and Kenny Watson (hamstring) were on the field.
Reacting to a report that the Bengals have decided not to give him
the franchise tag after the season, wide receiver T.j. Houshmandzadeh said he hopes it's true. But he also said the
Bengals haven't told his agent that and he said he'll see it when
he believes it, pointing to players franchised the past two
seasons.

4for4 reports: Bengals WR Chad Johnson (hamstring) did not
practice this week. He's not someone to count on. At best, he's
considered a very iffy game time call.

4for4 reports: Seahawks WR Koren Robinson (knee) is listed as
questionable but they expect him to be able to play. He did some
things at practice every day this week.

Boston Globe: Patriots RB Lamont Jordan seemed to be having
trouble getting his legs loose, as he spent extra time with the
trainers getting stretched out, while the team worked on kick
return drills.

4for4 reports: Jets WR Laveranues Coles (thigh questionable) is
expected to start as normal in week 17 after getting his normal
reps in at practice Friday.

4for4 reports: Bucs QB Jeff Garcia (calf) is probable and will
start after practicing fully this week, including again on Friday.
Tampa Bay can clinch a playoff spot with a win and a Dallas loss.
Since Tampa plays before the Cowboys, the Bucs should be motivated
come kickoff.

4for4 reports: Falcons WR Brian Finneran (calf) is listed as
questionable but he's really closer to probable after doing some
things all week including Friday.

4for4 reports: Broncos WR Brandon Stokley (foot probable) took
reps Thursday and Friday. The coaching staff is optimistic about
Stokley's chances to play.

4for4 reports: Panthers WR Muhsin Muhammad (foot probable) did not
practice Wednesday but he's doing fine and will start as normal.

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Derrick Mason (shoulder questionable) did
not practice Friday but is still likely to start. While Mason is
as gritty as they come, treat him as a game time call to be safe.

Indianapolis Star: Colts QB Peyton Manning will start at
quarterback for the Colts in Sunday's regular-season finale with
the Titans. But just how much time Manning gets in the game,
however, remains to be seen. He said earlier this week that he'd
like to get in as much work as possible. HC Dungy, though,
reserves the right to make the final call on playing for
everybody, Manning included.

Seattle Post Intelligencer: Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck (bulging
disk) will be the emergency third quarterback, so Seneca Wallace
will make his eighth start of the season, and fourth in a row. ...
The Cardinals are listed as six-point favorites Sunday. Arizona
won the first meeting 26-20.

4for4 reports: Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck (back questionable) did
not practice all week. Seneca Wallace gets another start in place
of Hasselbeck.

Milwaukee Journal: Packers WR Donald Driver (knee) both returned
and practiced in full.

Packers.com: Packers WR Donald Driver (knee), cornerback Al Harris
(illness), Jennings (concussion), defensive tackle Johnny Jolly
(ankle) and safety Aaron Rouse (ankle) were all taken off the
injury report on Friday and will play on Sunday. Tackle Breno
Giacomini (ankle) and defensive tackle Justin Harrell (hip) are
out for Sunday, and Jackson (wrist) is doubtful. Fullback Korey Hall (knee) is questionable for Sunday. Tackle Chad Clifton
(knees),linebacker Spencer Havner (ankle) cornerback Joe Porter
(concussion), guard Jason Spitz (knee) and cornerback Charles
Woodson (toe) are probable.

4for4 reports: The Packers fully expect to have starting WRs
Donald Driver (knee) and Greg Jennings (concussion) on Sunday.

AP reports: The reinforcements have arrived in the Broncos'
battered backfield: Cory Boyd and Alex Haynes, both of whom were
recently cut by the team. The Broncos needed them back after
losing Selvin Young (back) and P.j. Pope (hamstring) to season-
ending injuries Sunday against Buffalo. They are the 6th and 7th
TBs the Broncos have had to place on IR this season. Boyd, a 7th-
round draft selection by TB who was waived by the Bucs last
summer, was promoted to the Broncos' active roster from their
practice squad on Dec. 9, but was deactivated at Carolina and then
cut and re-signed to the practice squad. He has yet to carry the
ball in the NFL. Haynes is a 2nd-year player who was with the
Broncos from Nov. 4-22 after entering the league as an undrafted
free agent with Baltimore from Central Florida in '05.

Green Bay Press Gazette: Packers RB Brandon Jackson, who missed
Monday's game due to a sprained wrist, might not be available this
week, either. FB Korey Hall (knee) and DT Justin Harrell (hip,
back) both have improved and could return this week.

Green Bay Press Gazette: Packers starting WR Greg Jennings likely
will begin the week on the injury report. Jennings had what
McCarthy called "a slight concussion," but it was unclear when it
happened. He's unlikely to practice today, but McCarthy expects
him to be available against the Lions.

Indianapolis Star: It appears Colts WR Marvin Harrison (hamstring)
and running back Joseph Addai (shoulder) will be available against
the Titans. Addai was in uniform and could have played at
Jacksonville. Harrison, who was inactive against the Jaguars,
provided Dungy with an update Monday, which was a day off for the
players. "He said he felt good and was ready to play,'' Dungy
said. "I'm assuming he'll be ready to go.''

Pittsburgh Gazette: Bruce Gradkowski has started 11 games in the
NFL. Sunday, the Pittsburgh native will start his second in Heinz
Field. He won't want to remember his first. Gradkowski, a Seton-
LaSalle High School graduate, will become Cleveland's fourth
starter at QB when the Browns play the Steelers in the regular-
season finale. Two years ago, he started for Tampa Bay in Heinz
Field as a rookie and threw three interceptions and was sacked
five times. The Steelers won, 20-3. It could be rougher this time
for Gradkowski because the Steelers have a better team than they
did two years ago and the 4-11 Browns have not scored an offensive
TD in five games.

New York Daily News: Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) was healthy
enough to practice Tuesday, but the Giants had only a jog-through.
They will have a full practice today before taking Christmas Day
off.

Dallas Morning News: Cowboys RB Marion Barber (toe) missed
practice Tuesday. Barber is battling a dislocated little toe, and
he's having trouble cutting on it and dealing with the pain.
Barber had only two carries in Saturday's loss to Baltimore and
missed the second half. "A dislocation can get well," coach Wade
Phillips said. "Maybe we shouldn't have played him at all. Maybe
he would be well by now." Tashard Choice has carried 49 times for
269 yards and two TDs in the three games since Barber's injury.
But everything hasn't been positive for Choice. He botched a pitch
on an option play on a key third down in the loss to the Ravens.
"If I had caught the ball clean, I would have gotten the first
down," Choice said. "We've been working on that in practice,
because we knew how they were going to play it. We got the look we
wanted. I just didn't catch the ball cleanly. I tried to run
first."

New York Daily News: Giants RB Derrick Ward was named the NFC
offensive player of the week for his 215-yard performance Sunday
night.

Indianapolis Star: Jimmy Sorgi is in for the time of his young
life. A month shy of his third birthday, he'll attend his 1st
professional football game Sunday in Lucas Oil Stadium. Dad hopes
to make it a memorable occasion. "It'll be nice to have him at the
game,'' said Jim Sorgi, the Colts backup QB who is expected to see
extensive action in relief of Peyton Manning in a regular-season
finale against the Titans that carries zero playoff ramifications
for either team. With nothing of consequence on the line and a
first-round playoff game looming next weekend, HC Dungy will rest
players dealing with injury and limit the playing time of several
front-line players. That includes Manning. In a similar situation
last December, Manning's workload against the Titans consisted of
2 drives and 21 offensive plays. Sorgi took over and finished. He
completed 11-of-24 passes for 68 yards with one TD in a 16-10 loss
to Tennessee.

Dallas Morning News: Cowboys and Jason Witten (ankle) missed
practice Tuesday. Witten probably will play Sunday

SF Chronicle: Pro Bowl 49ers cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha had
additional tests on his sore neck, which Cable likened to a
stinger. X-rays were negative and Asomugha is expected to play
Sunday. ... Cable issued game balls to Russell and running back
Justin Fargas on offense, end Derrick Burgess, cornerback Chris Johnson and free safety Hiram Eugene on defense and kick returner
Johnnie lee Higgins and core players Isaiah Ekejiuba and Marquis
Cooper on special teams.

Indianapolis Star: Colts running back Dominic Rhodes said after
Thursday's win at Jacksonville he suffered a rib injury. "That's
one we'll look at,'' Dungy said. "If he's not feeling 100 percent,
we're going to keep him out.''

New York Newsday: Authorities searched the New Jersey home of
Plaxico Burress last night and found two guns and the clothes the
Giants wide receiver was wearing when he accidentally shot himself
in the leg last month, according to multiple reports Sources cited
in those reports said detectives from the NYPD, officers from the
Totowa, N.J., Police Department and investigators from the
Manhattan district attorney's office discovered at least two
weapons - a 9-mm gun and a loaded rifle - along with ammunition
and the clothes from the Nov. 29 incident at the Latin Quarter
nightclub in Manhattan. Sources also said that no permits for the
weapons were found. According to one report, Burress was not at
home at the time of the search. Burress faces two felony charges
of weapons possession from the shooting incident. The star WR, who
caught the game-winning TD pass with 35 seconds left in Super Bowl
XLII, was suspended by the Giants for 4 games and placed on the
season-ending non-football injury list.

Indianapolis Star: Colts HC Dungy was unable to provide an update
on which players, other than Brackett, will be kept out of
Sunday's game because of injury.

Green Bay Press Gazette: Packers starting WR Donald Driver will
likely begin the week on the injury report. Driver sustained a
knee contusion in the first half against the Bears but returned to
the game. McCarthy said Driver was questionable for practice
today.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals Safeties Matt Ware (strained calf) and
Aaron Francisco (ribs), along with tight end Stephen Spach
(ankle), were injured on Sunday and will be re-evaluated Tuesday.

Rocky Mountain News: Broncos RB P.j. Pope, who suffered a torn
left hamstring in the first quarter, will also miss whatever
remains of the season. Pope is looking at a recovery time of at
least six to eight weeks.

Charlotte Observer: Carolina coach John Fox's Monday press
conference, edited for brevity and clarity: ON INJURIES: "Really,
from the game, (DT) Damione Lewis, shoulder, and there's really
nothing else to report right now." WHAT ABOUT KEN LUCAS? "I think
he just got dinged a little bit." AND Jonathan Stewart? "Same
thing."

Charlotte Observer: Carolina coach John Fox's Monday press
conference, edited for brevity and clarity: ON WHY WAS RB Jonathan Stewart USED AHEAD OF Deangelo Williams IN OVERTIME? "We try to
spread the wealth a little bit there, at the running back
position. It hasn't been problematic thus far and we didn't think
it was problematic last night. At the end of the day it was a heck
of a game, and hard-fought, and we just came up a little short."

Rocky Mountain News: Broncos RB Selvin Young (ruptured disk) will
miss whatever remains of the season. HC Shanahan said the team
will have to wait about a month to see if Young will need surgery
to correct the problem. Young had missed seven games this season
in a nine-game stretch because of a groin injury. Sunday's game
was only his second back in the lineup since returning from the
injury. "Hopefully, the disk will go back into position where he
won't have to have an operation, but it'll take a month or so to
figure out where he's at," Shanahan said. "(He) hurt it in the
first quarter - shows a lot about his toughness."

Indianapolis Star: Colts DE Dwight Freeney said it might be
beneficial to take a few repetitions against Tennessee, "but we
went about nine, 10 straight weeks of not getting any rest. It's
important that we get some.'' Rhodes agreed. He has handled the
ball 44 times the past two games -- 34 rushes, 10 receptions --
while Joseph Addai has been out with a shoulder injury. "I kind of
banged up my rib a little bit,'' Rhodes said. "I need some rest
now.''

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals WR Chris Henry, re-signed in August
by the Bengals over Lewis' objection, has caught touchdown passes
in the past two games. Henry seems now to be playing with positive
energy. Coaches had spoken to him after a poor few weeks of play.
"That his existence as a player on this team was vital for him to
do it the right way all the time," Lewis said of the tone and
content of those conversations. "And I think he's made those
corrections, which has been good. "To see the lack, the hustle
plays that he had, the effort plays that he had two weeks ago and
not hurrying the route the other day and he got frustrated against
Baltimore where he didn't get a fade throw made to him."

Arizona Republic: Cardinals HC Whisenhunt said RB/KR J.J.
Arrington (knee), who was held out at New England, should be
available for the Seattle game and that he likely will play.

AP reports: Not as barbaric as Marion Barber, not the breakaway
threat of Felix Jones, Tashard Choice was merely the "other"
running back for the Dallas Cowboys this season. Then Jones went
on injured reserve and Barber messed up his foot. So the other guy
got a chance. Three dazzling games later, Choice is no longer
defined by what he isn't. The new description of Tashard Choice: a
nice blend of Barber's smashmouth style and Jones' elusiveness.
Heck, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has even compared him to Emmitt Smith. "It's pretty amazing what he has done in a short time,"
coach Wade Phillips said.

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals TB Cedric Benson, who ran the ball 38
times for 171 yards Sunday against the Browns "is a little sore,"
Lewis said.

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals TB Cedric Benson signed with the
Bengals in late September and emerged as the starter. He was out
of the league after two alcohol related charges that were brought
against him while he was still with the Bears. He was later
exonerated on both charges. With the Bengals, Benson, who can be
an unrestricted free agent after the season, has been a model
citizen. "He's been very, very consistent," Lewis said. "He's been
extremely professional. At times he's been frustrated - and as we
all know, people get - he's been very apologetic immediately
afterwards and caught himself in mid-stride that way, which has
been great to see. "Most importantly, the things you guys don't
get a chance to see and I do, is how hard he works every day and
the extra time he's spent to prepare and try to be an important
part of the offense as quick as he could."

AP reports: Browns RB Jason Wright was placed on injured reserve
by the injury-riddled Cleveland Browns on Tuesday.

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals TE Ben Utecht (foot) is ready to play
Sunday, Lewis said. And the team will watch Ocho Cinco, left
tackle Levi Jones (hamstring) and tailback Kenny Watson
(hamstring) closely this week. Jones, Lewis said, is doubtful.

AP reports: With Browns tight ends Kellen Winslow (ankle) and
Steve Heiden (knee surgery) sidelined and Darnell Dinkins slowed
by an ankle injury, the Browns signed tight end Brad Cieslak to
the active roster. Cieslak was with the Browns in training camp
before he was waived Aug. 30.

AP reports: Bears safety Mike Brown left Monday's game against the
Green Bay Packers with a calf injury, leaving Chicago's defense
without one of its leaders. It was not clear when Brown was
injured. The Bears had possession to start the third quarter and
the offense was still on the field when the announcement was made.
Chicago also lost RB Kevin Jones to a hamstring injury.

Chicago Tribune: Bears LB Hunter Hillenmeyer limped off the field
after the Packers' fake punt in the second quarter. Hillenmeyer
sprained his right ankle when teammate Craig Steltz slid into him.
Hillenmeyer didn't return. Safety Mike Brown limped off with calf
injury on the Packers' final scoring drive of the first half and
was replaced by Steltz, the rookie from LSU. Steltz was
immediately bowled over by Ryan Grant on Grant's 17-yard touchdown
reception. Brown did not return. Cornerback Charles Tillman hurt
his ankle on the Grant touchdown but returned in the second half.
RB Kevin Jones injured his hamstring playing special teams and did
not return.

Chicago Tribune: Rashied Davis didn't hide his frustration leading
into Monday night's game as criticism of his play mounted. Imagine
how the Bears' WR feels now after being benched. Davis, who
entered the game with a team-high seven drops, was replaced in the
starting lineup by Brandon Lloyd. Davis had started the previous 5
games and 12 of the team's 14. Rookie Earl Bennett entered
Monday's game as the 3rd WR on the Bears' first series. Marty Booker was the 4th WR to see the field after missing the last game
with a rib injury. Davis stood on the sideline the 1st half,
removing his parka just for special teams assignments. The shakeup
was easy to understand: Bears WRs entered the game 29th in the
league in receptions with 111 and 27th in receiving yards with
1,503."We shook it up a little bit," OC Ron Turner said. "Marty
was still banged up a little bit with his ribs. The biggest thing
was getting Earl in there... Rashied is a great competitor, and
he's not happy with the way he's played, but he'll work his way
out of it. He's a team guy."

Philly.com: Eagles HC Reid said the two receivers who sat out the
Washington game with injuries - Kevin Curtis (strained calf) and
Hank Baskett (sprained knee ligament) - should return. "Kevin Curtis tried to go and warm up before the game but wasn't able to
do it," Reid said.

Dallas Morning News: The Cowboys don't have to release an injury
report until Wednesday, so Wade Phillips declined to discuss how
much Jason Witten participated in today's practice. Witten didn't
go through passing lines during the portion of practice the media
is allowed to watch. It's a safe bet that the Pro Bowl tight end,
whose ankle is the primary concern on the list of injuries he's
nursing, didn't do much the rest of practice. But there's no doubt
that Witten, who limped off the field several times before he
caught a touchdown pass against the Ravens, will play Sunday in
Philadelphia. The question is how effective he will be on a bad
wheel that seems to get worse every week.

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will not play Sunday
at home in the season finale against the Chiefs. Palmer will miss
his 12th game of the season and his 11th in a row with the
inflamed throwing elbow. "Carson will participate in practice in
limited fashion, where he would not be contacted by anybody,"
Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. Whether Palmer will have surgery
remains his decision.

Cincinnati Enquirer: It is also not likely WR Chad Johnson "Ocho
Cinco" will play Sunday at home in the season finale against the
Chiefs. Ocho Cinco missed the game Sunday at Cleveland because of
a low hamstring injury sustained Thursday in practice, and he said
Monday that he didn't want to push it late in the season.

St. Petersburg Times: Bucs HC Gruden expressed no concern with the
health of QB Jeff Garcia, who received several stitches for a deep
cut on his nose and played with a strained right calf muscle.

Indianapolis Star: The Colts are locked in as the #5 seed in the
AFC playoffs. HC Dungy said Friday afternoon the only certainty
regarding the Titans game is that he'll "protect the guys who are
a little bit nicked up, so the guys who are iffy probably won't
play. "I don't think we'll scale back too much.'' The Titans have
clinched the AFC South title and a first-round bye, and can earn
the #1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the conference
playoffs by beating Pittsburgh on Sunday in Nashville. If the
Steelers win, Tennessee would need to beat the Colts and have the
Steelers lose to earn the top seed. Dungy insisted the Titans'
approach won't influence how he parcels out playing time to his
front-line players. The players and coaching staff are off until
practice resumes Tuesday.

Indianapolis Star: Colts Colts RB Joseph Addai and WR Marvin Harrison might be held out of the finale. Harrison has experienced
"some discomfort behind his knee,'' according to Dungy, and a
magnetic resonance imaging test revealed Harrison suffered an
injury to the "lower hamstring area'' Sunday against Detroit. "If
he's not 100 percent,'' Dungy said, "we won't play him.''

The Broncos placed running back P.j. Pope on the reserve/injured
list.

AP reports: Panthers HB Jonathan Stewart sustained a head injury
in the first half but returned. Kasay's miss was only his second
in 26 attempts this season.

The Broncos placed running back Selvin Young on the
reserve/injured list.

Belleville News Democrat: Rams RB Antonio Pittman was inactive for
the Rams' game against the San Francisco 49ers after skipping
practice on Saturday. Pittman also was fined $25,000 for the
unexcused absence.

Detroit Free Press: Lions Wide receiver Calvin Johnson also came
out early in the fourth quarter. He had a bruised knee, but he
said he was all right and would play Sunday at Green Bay.

Press Democrat: No new 49ers injury updates. Running back Frank Gore tried to work out before the game and could not go. He
expects to do some work in practice this week and should be able
to play enough to get 22 yards to do over 1,000 for the third
straight season.

Detroit Free Press: Lions QB Dan Orlovsky will start at
quarterback Sunday at Green Bay, as the Lions try to avoid the
NFL's first 0-16 season.

Belleville News Democrat: Rams RB Steven Jackson's hamstring
injury doesn't appear to be serious. "He looked like he was OK
today,'' Haslett said. Jackson continued playing with the injury,
racking up 32 carries against the 49ers.

NFL reports: It's no surprise given his performance the last
several weeks, but Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson will start the
regular sesaon finale against the Giants. Vikings coach Brad
Childress confirmed the non-move during his Monday press
conference. The Vikings can clinch the NFC North on Monday night
with a win by the Packers over the Bears, but Childress said the
results won't dictate his strategy in terms of resting players
against the Giants. He expects Giants coach Tom Coughlin to do the
same. "That's how Tom's (Coughlin) wired," said Childress. "You
saw them play all those guys last year against New England. He has
a couple weeks off. He's not going to give them three weeks off.
You want to go into the playoffs, not unlike us, you want to go
up, be an ascending group. You want to win, (and) you want to play
your best so that when you do take that little time off you leave
with a good taste in your mouth."

Detroit Free Press: Lions QB Dan Orlovsky will start at
quarterback Sunday at Green Bay, as the Lions try to avoid the
NFL's first 0-16 season. Orlovsky and tight end Casey Fitzsimmons
had flu-like symptoms Detroit Free Press: Sunday. Fitzsimmons, who
had missed practice time because of it, tried to play but left
early. Marinelli said Orlovsky's performance was unaffected. The
Lions pulled Orlovsky early in the fourth quarter.

Times Picayune: Saints injury report: TE Jeremey Shockey said he
hopes to come back and play in the season finale next week against
Carolina. Left tackle Jammal Brown said the same thing after he
left Sunday's game in the first half. He aggravated the sprained
left ankle that kept him out of last week's game at Chicago.
Cornerback Usama Young left briefly with an ankle injury Sunday,
but he returned to the game.

Times Picayune: Saints HC Payton said left tackle Jammal Brown and
tight end Jeremy Shockey both sustained "classic ankle" sprains
against Detroit and their status will be updated Wednesday.

AP reports: New Orleans HC Payton has a conflict of interest, in a
sense. A former QB himself, Payton routinely expresses his
admiration for Drew Brees and the pride he takes in Brees' league-
leading production in the passing game. Payton wants to see Brees
break Dan Marino's 1984 record of 5,084 yards passing in a single
season, but the coach questions whether it would be responsible to
tailor his play-calling toward that goal when the Saints host the
Panthers next Sunday. "Certainly, a milestone like the record
we're talking about is significant, but nonetheless what's most
important to our team, to Drew Brees, to the organization, is
winning this football game and finishing 9-7," Payton said Monday
after reviewing film of NO' 42-7 trouncing of the winless Lions a
day earlier. "That said, something like that is significant. But I
think it's only rewarding if something like that happens when you
play well and you win rather than just if you hang around and
throw it around just for the sake of the record.

Florida Sun Sentinel A Miami woman has filed a civil lawsuit
against suspended Super Bowl hero Plaxico Burress, alleging he is
responsible for a May car crash that left her with neck and back
injuries. Alise Smith, 27, says the New York Giants wide receiver
rear-ended her on Florida's Turnpike in Tamarac. Smith's lawsuit
filed in Broward Circuit Court seeks more than $15,000 for medical
bills, lost wages and damage to her car. "Ms. Smith, who was
wearing a seatbelt, was rear-ended by Mr. Burress, who failed to
maintain a safe braking distance, maintain a proper lookout or to
exercise reasonable care," said Gregory Dell, Smith's attorney.
"All of this was the cause of this accident and Ms. Smith's
resulting injuries." Dell said Burress had also let his car
insurance policy lapse three days before the May 16 accident.

Seattle Times: Seahawks Coach Mike Holmgren said that linebacker
Leroy Hill and QB Matt Hasselbeck have a chance to play in
Sunday's finale in Arizona, but coneceded later that Hasselbeck
probably won't be physically cleared to play. "I don't think it's
realistic," Holmgren said. The coach followed that up by saying
not to take that as a declaration Hasselbeck is out as there
remained a possibility. Holmgren said the Seahawks came out of the
game relatively healthy and there were no additional setbacks to
report.

Detroit Free Press:Lions Coach Rod Marinelli said Daunte Culpepper
will not be ready, though he declined to provide details.
Culpepper has missed the past two games with an injured shoulder.
"He won't be healthy next week," Marinelli said. "I'm not going to
go into all that."

4for4 reports: Titans inactives: QB Chris Simms (3rd), DT
Albert Haynesworth, DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, WR Paul Williams,
WR Chris Davis, DB Tyrone Poole, RB Chris Henry and OT
Michael Otto.

4for4 reports: As expected, the Lions list RB Kevin Smith
as their starting RB today against the Saints.

FoxSports on Steve Breaston reports: If Boldin doesn't
play, Steve Breaston will start and Jerheme Urban will move
into the No. 3 role.

4for4 reports: Rams Inactives: QB Brock Berlin (3rd QB), RB
Antonio Pittman, CB Quincy Butler, S David Roach, C Cory
Withrow, G Roy Schuening, T Anthony Davis and DT Antwon
Burton.

ESPN reports: RB Brandon Jacobs is expected to start
tonight.

4for4 reports: Reminder: while not official yet, ESPN
reports today what we have told you all week, the Giants
expect to have RB Brandon Jacobs start tonight against
Carolina.

NFL Network reports: RB Frank Gore will not play today
against the Rams.

4for4 reports: 49ers Inactives: QB Jamie Martin (3rd QB),
RB Frank Gore, CB Marcus Hudson, CB Reggie Smith, RB Thomas Clayton, LB Ahmad Brooks, C Cody Wallace and T Jacob
Bender.

4for4 reports: Cardinals inactives: QB Brian St. Pierre
(3rd), RB Jj Arrington, WR Anquan Boldin, DE Travis LaBoy,
T Brandon Keith, DT Alan Branch, TE Jerame Tuman and T
Elliot Vallejo.

4for4 reports: Chargers inactives: QB Charlie Whitehurst
(3rd), DB Paul Oliver, RB Michael Bennett, RB Billy Latsko,
LB Anthony Waters, G Kynan Forney, T Corey Clark and WR
Malcom Floyd.

4for4 reports: Browns inactives: RB Allen Patrick, TE
Kellen Winslow, TE John Madsen, WR Paul Hubbard, DB Travis
Daniels, SS Hamza Abdullah, DE Shaun Smith and LB Leon
Williams.

AP reports: Rams running back Steven Jackson injured his
left hamstring near the end of the first half of Sunday's
game against the San Francisco 49ers but returned to start
the second half. The team had said he was questionable to
return. Jackson had 71 yards on 16 carries in the half. He
missed most of five games earlier in the season with a
thigh injury. Trainers were working on Jackson's left
hamstring on a table behind the bench before the start of
the second half.

AP reports: With Raiders WR Ronald Curry doubtful this week with a
turf toe injury, the Raiders (3-11) could have no active wide
receiver with more than 20 career catches for Sunday's game
against Houston. Second-year receiver Johnnie lee Higgins (19
career catches) is expected to start alongside rookie Chaz Schilens (nine catches). Todd Watkins and Jonathan Holland,
neither having a career reception, would be the backups. Strong is
an undrafted free agent out of Pittsburgh who has spent the whole
season on the practice squad.

FoxSports reports: The Rams have won only two home games
over the last two seasons and there's a good chance that
San Francisco RB Frank Gore (ankle) won't be active. That
means Deshaun Foster could be the main running back.

4for4 reports: With RB Frank Gore out, look for Deshaun Foster to get the start.

AP reports: Redskins running back Clinton Portis left
Sunday's game against the Eagles for part of one drive with
a bruised hand. Portis went to the sideline in the second
quarter during a Redskins possession that resulted in a
field goal. Before going out, he had nine carries for 32
yards. He returned on Washington's next possession, late in
the first half, and gained 14 yards on his next carry.
Portis entered this weekend as the NFL's third-leading
rusher.

AP reports: Raiders receiver Ashley Lelie will miss the final two
games of the season because of a calf injury. The team activated
tight end Darrell Strong from the practice squad Saturday. Lelie
is the fourth Oakland receiver placed on the season-ending injured
reserve list this year, joining Javon Walker (ankle), Drew Carter
(knee) and rookie Arman Shields (knee). Lelie was signed just
before the start of the season after Carter injured a knee in an
exhibition game. He had 11 catches for 197 yards and two
touchdowns before injuring his calf last week against New England.

AP reports: Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey hurt his right
ankle in the first half against the Detroit Lions and did
not return. Shockey caught five passes for 37 yards Sunday
before walking off the field just before halftime. He ranks
second on team with 50 receptions, has 483 yards receiving
and isn't one of 11 Saints who has caught a touchdown pass
this season from Drew Brees. The Super Bowl champion New
York Giants traded Shockey to New Orleans in July for
second- and fifth-round draft picks. The oft-injured, four-
time Pro Bowl tight end complained about his role with the
Giants, who won a title with him out with a broken leg.

4for4 reports: Reminder: WR Chad Johnson (hamstring) is
out. Chris Henry should see more snaps as a result, however
the weather is brutal in Ohio today so plan accordingly.

4for4 reports: Bengals inactives: QB Carson Palmer (3rd),
WR Chad Johnson, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Ben Utecht, T Levi
Jones, RB Kenny Watson, G Evan Mathis and CB Simeon
Castille.

4for4 reports: Note: the winter weather advisory in Seattle
is good news for the Jets RBs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington.

ESPN reports: Jeff Garcia should be able to go today.

FoxSports reports: The Bucs are 6-0 at home and they will
have QB Jeff Garcia starting unless something happens to
his calf this morning.

4for4 reports: Reminder: it's official, QB Jeff Garcia is
set to start for the Bucs as they host SD.

4for4 reports: Saints inactives: Michael Lehan CB, Kendrick
Clancy DT, Tearrius George DE, Rob Ninkovich DE, Jamar
Nesbit G, David Patten WR, Joey Harrington QB and T Jermon
Bushrod.

AP reports: QB Matt Hasselbeck was inactive for the eighth
game this season when his battered Seahawks hosted the
Jets. Hasselbeck was in uniform on Sunday as the emergency
third quarterback, but was essentially out again with a
bulging disk in his back. Seneca Wallace made his seventh
start of the season. Wallace was behind an offensive line
that started five fill-ins because of more injuries,
including Sean Locklear, who went on injured reserve
Saturday. Wallace had made just four starts in his first
five NFL seasons before this one. Seattle was also down to
its third-string outside linebacker. Starter Leroy Hill was
out again with a pinched nerve in his neck, and backup D.D.
Lewis was inactive with a shin injury. Will Herring made
his first career start there.

4for4 reports: Buccaneers inactives: QB Brian Griese (3rd),
WR Dexter Jackson, QB Josh Johnson, LB Matt McCoy, LB Rod
Wilson, T James Lee, LB Patrick Chukwurah and DT Greg
Peterson.

4for4 reports: Lions inactives: QB Drew Henson (3rd), QB
Daunte Culpepper, WR Travis Taylor, CB Chris Roberson, DB
Darnell Bing, G Manny Ramirez, G Edwin Mulitalo and DT
Andre Fluellen.

Denver Post: With five running backs on injured reserve and five
different running backs having also started games for the Broncos
this season, it appears P.j. Pope is next in line. Pope, who
started the season on the Broncos' practice squad and was signed
to the active roster Nov. 4, has been among the backs taking
carries with the starters this week. He finished with 51 yards on
seven carries in Sunday's loss to the Panthers - 24 came on a
fourth-quarter run on the Broncos' last possession - and he also
caught two passes for 24 yards. Pope's 11 carries this season
constitute his career total as well. He spent the 2007 season on
the Bears' practice squad and about half the 2006 season on the
Packers' active roster, appearing in only one game.

NFL Network TV reports: no surprise here, Ravens RB Ray Rice is out for tonight. Leron Mcclain and Willis Mcgahee
will get the RB touches for Baltimore.

Houston Chronicle: Texans rookie running back Steve Slaton
currently leads the NFL in fourth-quarter rushing yards this
season. He has run for 374 of his 1,124 yards in fourth quarters.
"That would surprise me a little bit - just with his size and how
many times he's touched the ball," coach Gary Kubiak said. "But
what doesn't surprise me is we really put an emphasis this year on
being able to finish games running the football. We've been
committed to that so that's something that we've gotten better at.
We've finished a couple games on the field making big first downs
and hitting a knee and calling it a day. That's eventually what
you want to get good at."

San Diego Tribune: This is a big week for second-year wide
receiver Legedu Naanee. First, with Malcom Floyd out because of a
collapsed lung, Naanee will be the Chargers' third receiver Sunday
at Tampa Bay. Then he'll be at Qualcomm Stadium Tuesday night to
see his Boise State alma mater face TCU in the Poinsettia Bowl.
"This is a great opportunity," said Naanee. "I've been anxious to
get more time in the offense."

Denver Post: Broncos HC Shanahan said he expects the Bills to play
Trent Edwards, who missed the last two games with a groin injury,
at quarterback Sunday. Buffalo coach Dick Jauron said earlier this
week he might also give the team's No. 3 quarterback, Gibran
Hamdan, a look during the team's final two games.

Buffalo News: Friday Practice update... Bills QB Trent Edwards
(groin), running back Marshawn Lynch (shoulder) and left tackle
Jason Peters (hip) also are questionable as all three practiced on
a limited basis on Friday. If Edwards can't go, Gibran Hamdan will
get his first start. That wouldn't bother me at all because the
Bills need to see if this guy is good enough to be Edwards' backup
next year. The early guess on Lynch and Peters is both will play.
But for now, put them in the game-time decision category.

Indianapolis Star: Colts Running back Joseph Addai (shoulder) was
active for the Jacksonville game but did not see any playing time.
Dominic Rhodes and Chad Simpson shared the duty against
Jacksonville. Addai, though, could get some work against Tennessee
next week. He has not played for the past two weeks. "Joseph was
good, was cleared to [play], wanted to go [against the Jaguars].
[RBs coach] Gene Huey kind of decided once we got going to stick
with Dom. I think Joseph is going to be good for us down the
stretch," Dungy said.

Buffalo News: Friday Practice update... As we mentioned in the
previous post, wide receiver Roscoe Parrish left the practice
field early to get medical attention. It turns out he suffered a
bruised knee near the end of individual drills. He was treated by
training staff and retired to the trainer's room. He was added to
the injury report as questionable, though he expects to play on
Sunday.

NFL Network TV reports: Dallas RB Marion Barber (toe) will
dress out tonight. However, they point out Barber might not
start and his role is unclear. This follows what 4for4 has
been reporting all week -- Barber is a very risky start.

The Steelers signed linebacker Donovan Woods from the practice
squad; released running back Najeh Davenport.

San Diego Tribune: Bucs QB Jeff Garcia and linebacker and
defensive captain Derrick Brooks practiced for the Bucs Friday and
are listed as probable starters against the Chargers. Of Garcia,
Bucs coach Jon Gruden said: "I believe he'll be the starter. Now,
what his playing strength and stamina is, I can't be a true judge
of that today. I know he'll give everything he has." Gruden said
Luke Mccown would be the backup to Garcia. Last week, Gruden made
a late decision to go with Brian Griese at quarterback. The Bucs
listed defensive ends Gaines Adams (ankle) and Greg White
(shoulder) as "probable" to face the Chargers.

Denver Post: In addition to Broncos Ryan Clady and guard Chris
Kuper, receiver Brandon Stokley (heel) and safety Vernon Fox
(concussion) participated in Friday's practice on a limited basis.
Stokley is expected to be available for the game. Cornerback Champ
Bailey, who has missed seven games with a groin injury, said he
continues to make progress toward returning to the lineup. "I'm
pushing through everything, I'm confident I can do everything,
it's just hard to simulate a game in practice," Bailey said. "I
want to play, but if I go out there, I want to play like I know I
can."

Indianapolis Star: Colts Wide receiver Marvin Harrison (hamstring)
was hurt against Detroit last week and did not make the trip to
Jacksonville. His availability for the Tennessee game remains up
in the air. "Marvin has just some discomfort behind his knee. And
we found out on the MRI it's on the lower hamstring area. So we'll
see how that heals up. If there's any question at all, if he's not
100 percent, we won't play him [against the Titans]. But we'll see
how he is once Tuesday comes," the Colts coach said.

4for4 reports: 49ers WR Josh Morgan (head) is probable to play
this weekend against the Rams.

AP reports: Giants WRs Domenik Hixon (ankle/foot) and Sinorice Moss (calf), and defensive tackle Fred Robbins (shoulder) also
were listed as questionable for Sunday night's game.

4for4 reports: Giants WR Domenik Hixon (ankle, foot questionable)
did some more things again on Friday. They expect him to play
against Carolina.

4for4 reports: Browns WR Joshua Cribbs (back) is listed as
questionable but he should be able to play. He was full-go at
practice today.

4for4 reports: As of now, Ravens RB Ray Rice (calf questionable)
is a true game time call. He only took part in some limited drills
on Friday.

4for4 reports: Reminder, the Bills WR James Hardy (knee) is a
scratch for week 16.

4for4 reports: Cardinals WR Early Doucet (hamstring questionable)
did some things both Thursday and Friday. The rookie has a better
than 50-50 chance of playing, as does backup WR Sean Morey
(shoulder questionable).

4for4 reports: Texans RB Steve Slaton did not practice Friday but
it was not injury related. Talking about injuries today, Coach
Gary Kubiak said, "No, we're good. Like I said, those two players
(LS Harris and LB Xavier) were limited.... they'll be game-time
decisions. But everyone else is ready to go."

4for4 reports: Bears RB Matt Forte (toe questionable) got back to
the practice field today, however he didn't take part in all his
normal reps. Word is he'll play Monday. Recall, as we told you
yesterday, Forte said he'd be "100 percent" for Monday's game. The
good news here is Forte hurt his toe early in game action last
week and still managed to grind out 10 carries after hurting his
toe. If you're concerned about the rookie RB not playing and you
can change lineups on Monday before the game, make sure you roster
his main backup, Adrian Peterson (Bears).

4for4 reports: Lions RB Kevin Smith (ankle questionable) practiced
some on Friday and is expected to start. But, to be extra safe,
check in with us Sunday before the 1PM kickoff.

4for4 reports: Broncos RB Selvin Young (groin) will be available,
as needed, this weekend.

AP reports: Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw (neck), safety Kenny Phillips
(concussion), defensive end Justin Tuck (lower leg), running back
Derrick Ward (ankle), guard Rich Seubert (illness) and Kareem
McKenzie (back) are all probable. Linebacker Gerris Wilkinson
(knee) is out.

4for4 reports: Giants backup RB Ahmad Bradshaw (neck) remains
probable and should play against Carolina after having another
good practice on Friday.

4for4 reports: Bills QB Trent Edwards (groin questionable) got
enough snaps in this week to suggest he's going to start. He did
some limited practice Friday.

Pioneer Press: Vikings RB Adrian Peterson and DE Brian Robison are
probable, and Pat Williams is out.

4for4 reports: Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is probable with an
ankle. He did some more things Friday and as we told you
yesterday, no worries according to Peterson. He said its just
normal wear and tear -- "It's really not anything big." Also
recall, the Vikings are playing to clinch the NFC North this
weekend.

4for4 reports: Packers backup RB Brandon Jackson (wrist) got some
hard reps in today so while he's listed as questionable, that
tells us, barring a setback, he's really closer to probable.

4for4 reports: Raiders TE Zach Miller (shoulder probable) got back
to a full practice today. They expect him to start as normal and
with Curry and Lelie out, Miller could see plenty of throws coming
his way.

4for4 reports: Bills RB Marshawn Lynch is listed as questionable
with a shoulder. However, he did more work Friday and so while
he's a game time call, he should be a go.

4for4 reports: Broncos WR Brandon Marshall (hip, thigh) is
probable and will start this weekend.

Minneapolis Star Tribune: Brad Childress decided not to
keep his starting QB a secret until Sunday after all. The
Vikings coach is sticking with Tarvaris Jackson, even
though veteran Gus Fre- rotte is healthy enough to play.
Jackson will make his second consecutive start Sunday
against the Falcons in place of Frerotte, who suffered a
broken bone in his lower back against Detroit. The No. 3
quarterback last week against the Cardinals, Frerotte will
serve as Jackson's backup Sunday. Childress said he
considered a number of factors before ultimately deciding
that Jackson "gives our team the best chance right now."
"That takes nothing away from Gus," he said. "It's more a
product of what Tarvaris has done with the ball in his
hand." Childress, however, declined to say whether Jackson
will remain the starter beyond Sunday's game.

4for4 reports: Jets WR Brad Smith (head questionable) was limited
at practice again today. He's not someone to count on; his status
is a game time call.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Hank Baskett (knee) is a scratch for week
16.

4for4 reports: Browns backup RB Jerome Harrison (ribs) was limited
at practice again Friday and is questionable for week 16. Ditto
Lawrence Vickers (ankle questionable). Of the two, Harrison is
more likely to dress.

Florida Times Union: Despite the solid performance, RB
Maurice Jones-Drew 's night ended on a sour note after he
went down with a sprained knee in the final minute after
catching two passes for 27 yards during the Jaguars' last
drive of the game. Team officials didn't immediately have
an update on Drew's condition, but he didn't return after
the injury. However, Drew said he's fine. "I'm all right.
I'll definitely play next week," he said. "It's not a big
deal, just a bruise. It's football. You get tackled and you
get back up." Of the six running backs taken in the first
two rounds of the 2006 draft (a class that includes Reggie Bush, Laurence Maroney, Deangelo Williams, Joseph Addai and
Lendale White), Drew entered Thursday's game leading the
class in touchdowns (40), yards from scrimmage (3,691) and
all-purpose yards (5,653). A good portion of those
statistics came in games against the Colts.

4for4 reports: Given Hank Baskett and Kevin Curtis will be non-
factors this weekend, Philly will need big games from veteran
Reggie Brown and rookie star DeShaun Jackson.

4for4 reports: Bills WR Roscoe Parrish (knee questionable) banged
his knee during Friday's practice but unless the bruise gets
worse, we're told he's got a good chance to play.

AP reports: Giants HB Brandon Jacobs practiced Friday for the
third straight day and was listed as questionable for the New York
Giants' NFC showdown with the Carolina Panthers."I feel good,"
Jacobs said after the workout at Giants Stadium. Jacobs missed the
game against Dallas last weekend after aggravating an injury to
his left knee in a game against Philadelphia the previous Sunday.
He leads the Giants with 1,002 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns.

4for4 reports: Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee questionable) was
limited at practice Wednesday, Thursday and again on Friday. While
they called him "questionable" today, even Coach Tom Coughlin
admitted that Jacobs would start barring a setback. Also recall
what we told you yesterday, "NY would like to clinch the homefield
advantage throughout the NFC playoffs this weekend. If they do or
not, plan on Jacobs resting some in week 17. As for this weekend,
he's much closer to probable than 50-50."

SF Chronicle: For the second week in a row, the 49ers will
make running back Frank Gore's availability a game-time
decision - this week before Sunday's contest in St. Louis.
The 49ers' leading rusher sprained his ankle against the
Jets and did not play in Miami. He did not practice
Thursday and continued to receive treatment. "It's coming
along," Gore said. "It feels a whole lot better." Gore said
doctors told him he would not be risking further injury by
playing. He put his chances of playing in St. Louis at 50-
50. "Same thing - it'll be game time," coach Mike
Singletary said. "Hopefully, he can go."

4for4 reports: Once again, 49ers RB Frank Gore (ankle) did not
practice Friday and he remains very questionable. The fact SF is
playing on turf Sunday doesn't help matters for Gore. Treat him as
a game time call, but don't expect much. Be sure to plan
accordingly and keep in mind Deshaun Foster ran for 76-yards last
week when filling in for Gore.

Azcardinals.com: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (shoulder) skipped
practice again Friday and running back J.J. Arrington (knee) was
very limited in practice. They are questionable for Sunday's game
against New England, and Whisenhunt said both will be game-time
decisions. Whisenhunt already said Thursday that the Cards would
hold both players out if they weren't ready because having them
ready for the playoffs is more important.

4for4 reports: Cardinals RB J.J. Arrington (knee questionable)
only managed some very limited work today and he's going to be a
game time call.

ESPN: Cowboys RB Marion Barber didn't practice Thursday and
is again considered a game-time decision, like he was a
week ago when he had only 2 yards on eight carries. Barber
has been hampered by a broken pinkie toe that forced him to
miss a game. "We just have to see again game day on him as
far as being able to play," Phillips said.

Cowboys RBMarion Barber (questionable/ calf, toe) did not practice
again Friday.

4for4 reports: Cowboys RB Marion Barber (toe) did not practice all
week. He's a questionable game time call, but don't expect much.
Recall, even if he dresses out, he could see limited game snaps.
With your championship riding on this week's results, don't bank
on Barber against the Ravens.

Chicago Tribune: Ron Jaworski kept his assistant busy
Thursday breaking down every pass Kyle Orton has had batted
down this season. The final tally will make Jaworski more
informed when the ESPN analyst calls the Bears-Packers
"Monday Night Football" game at Soldier Field. But
Jaworski, whose eyes are to quarterback play what an X-ray
machine is to bones, didn't need statistics to conclude
whether he thinks the Bears should commit long-term to
Orton. "No," Jaworski told the Tribune Thursday in a phone
interview. "[But] they might."

4for4 reports: Coming as no surprise, the Chargers ruled WR Malcom Floyd (lung) out for week 16. While we've been impressed with
Floyd as of late, the Chargers still have Ladainian Tomlinson,
Antonio Gates, Chris Chambers, and Vincent Jackson (concussion
probable) ready to go.

4for4 reports: Giants backup RB Derrick Ward (ankle) was back to a
full practice Friday after taking some reps off Thursday. Ward
remains probable for week 16.

4for4 reports: Steelers core players RB Willie Parker and WR Hines Ward took full reps Thursday and Friday. They are in good health.

4for4 reports: Bengals TE Ben Utecht (foot probable) got back to a
full practice Friday after only doing some limited things
Thursday.

4for4 reports: Jets WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder) is probable
and took all his reps Wednesday-Friday. Look for him to start as
normal this week.

4for4 reports: Cowboys WR Roy Williams (foot) was limited at
practice Wednesday but word is he will play. For his part Williams
took full reps both Thursday and Friday.

4for4 reports: As we told you earlier in the week, Bengals backup
RB Chris Perry (groin) appears ready to dress out this weekend.
Today, the Bengals listed him as probable and he took practice.
The other CIN backup RB, Kenny Watson is questionable.

4for4 reports: Lions TE Casey Fitzsimmons (illness) is probable
and should be able to get back on his feet before game time.

4for4 reports: As we told you yesterday, "Raiders WR Ronald Curry
(toe) probably won't start Sunday against Houston." Today, Oakland
listed him as doubtful and Curry was unable to take reps with the
team. Likewise, WR Ashley Lelie (calf) is also doubtful and will
be a scratch for Houston.

ESPN: Considering that Tony Romo finished the last game
with his sore back, the Cowboys quarterback doesn't
anticipate any problem being ready for the next game. Even
in a shortened week. "If I've been able to do it once
already, I can't imagine it ever being worse than that,"
Romo said Thursday. "I did it last week so if that's the
worst that it gets, I should be able to play either way."
Romo said he will be ready Saturday night when Dallas plays
its Texas Stadium finale against the Ravens. "Tony Romo
practiced [Thursday] and felt a lot better," coach Wade
Phillips said. "It looks good for him for Saturday."

Cowboys QB Tony Romo (probable/back) practiced fully Friday and
said his back is feeling " better and better."

4for4 reports: Cowboys QB Tony Romo (back) took full reps again on
Friday. Though he will be listed as probable, he will start.

4for4 reports: Rams K Josh Brown (right groin) is listed as
probable and is expected to kick Sunday. He did all his drills
Friday.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Kevin Curtis (calf) was unable to run
today with the team and is now doubtful. They had hoped he would
get some reps in today so this is bad news.

4for4 reports: Cowboys TE Jason Witten finished the week in fine
order and took full reps all week. His ankle situation isn't going
to keep him out this weekend.

Washington Post: Redskins RB Clinton Portis sat out practice today
because of back spasms and his status for Sunday's game against
the Philadelphia Eagles was unclear. Portis experienced
discomfort when he awoke today. He briefly joined his teammates on
the field at Redskins Park before heading to the training room for
treatment. In the locker room after practice, Portis moved slowly
and struggled to bend. He has not missed a game despite the pain
of knee, hip and neck injuries, but back problems are different,
Portis said. "My back just spasmed up," he said. "I was
[sleeping], but I don't now how I slept. I woke up and just didn't
feel like moving this morning. It feels better when they
[trainers] rubbing on it, but that don't last long. As soon as
they stop, it starts back hurting." Portis was scheduled to
undergo massage therapy and consult a chiropractor today.
"Everything they can come up with, we'll just try," he said. As
for Sunday's game, "it's two days from now, we're looking forward
to it," Portis said. "If it's bad, it's bad. Hopefully, it'll be
all right."

4for4 reports: Redskins RB Clinton Portis (back questionable) took
reps Wednesday and Thursday but sat out practice Friday due to a
sore back situation. Portis should get enough treatment on his
back to work things out and the coaching staff indicated they
think he should be able to play. In any case, treat him as a game
time call and remember back spasms can come and go, especially
when subject to NFL-level hits.

4for4 reports: Bengals WR T.j. Houshmandzadeh (hand probable)
practiced Friday and is expected to start.

4for4 reports: Eagles backup RB Correll Buckhalter (knee) is
probable for week 16. He took reps again on Friday.

4for4 reports: Bengals WR Chad Johnson (hamstring probable) rested
up today but the coaching staff said he'll play.

4for4 reports: Redskins WR Santana Moss (concussion) is listed as
probable but he's fully expected to start after taking reps all
week.

4for4 reports: Seahawks WR Koren Robinson (knee) was limited at
practice Thursday (resting) but took full reps Friday. He's really
closer to probable than questionable, however Seattle labeled him
50-50.

4for4 reports: Saints backup RB Deuce Mcallister (knee) is
probable. He was resting yesterday due to some swelling.
McAllister called it "wear and tear" and the coaching staff
sounded optimistic as well. That said, keep your eye on Pierre Thomas. Thomas has been a tremendous fantasy player down the
stretch and he might have his best game yet on Sunday. The Lions
allow the most rushing yards per game in the NFL, and with Reggie Bush on IR, Thomas should top the century mark in total yards.
He's scored touchdowns in five straight games, and has an
excellent shot at making it six in a row.

4for4 reports: The Jets are calling WR Laveranues Coles
(questionable) but nobody believes he's really 50-50. Coles took
his normal limited snaps all week and should start in a must win
game. Recall, the Jets are playing to try and make the playoffs.

4for4 reports: Bucs QB Jeff Garcia (calf questionable) did some
work all week including Friday. Coach Gruden suggested Garcia
should be able to start. Treat him as a game time call, but he's
really closer to probable than 50-50. Also keep in mind, the Bucs
are playing to try and clinch a playoff spot this weekend.

4for4 reports: Falcons WR Brian Finneran (calf questionable) got
some work in again on Friday. He should be able to play.

4for4 reports: Ravens K Matt Stover (right ankle) was resting this
week and only did limited kicking. Still, he's expected to play.

Denver Post: Broncos slot receiver Brandon Stokley (bruised
heel) and safety Vernon Fox (concussion) were held out of
practice again Thursday. Left cornerback Champ Bailey
(groin) and fullback Spencer Larsen (groin) were limited in
practice.

Denver Post: Broncos HC Shanahan said cornerback Champ Bailey
(groin) and wide receiver Brandon Stokley (foot) will be
reevaluated after pregame drills Sunday. "(Bailey is) looking a
little bit better (and) hopefully there is no setback, but we
won't know until game time," Shanahan said. "I wouldn't say (I can
do) everything,'' Bailey said. "Most things. I'm not pushing
through everything. I'm pretty confident I can do everything but
it's hard to simulate a game in practice.'" Stokely is in the
same position, but "I expect him to go," Shanahan said.

4for4 reports: Broncos WR Brandon Stokley (foot) is a little iffy
so treat him as a game time call, but he should be able to dress
out.

4for4 reports: Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck (back questionable)
missed practice all week. Look for Seneca Wallace to get another
start.

Pioneer Press: Vikings QB Gus Frerotte is also questionable, and
will be the No. 2 quarterback, and WR Darius Reynaud is doubtful.

4for4 reports: Bears WR Marty Booker (ribs questionable) only
managed some limited work this week. He's not someone to count on.

ESPN: Giants running back Derrick Ward (ankle), defensive tackle
Fred Robbins (shoulder), receivers Sinorice Moss (calf) and
Domenik Hixon (ankle-foot) and linebacker Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
did not practice on Wednesday.

Newark Star Ledger: The Giants' injury situation got a whole lot
better today. Back at practice today were: DT Fred Robbins
(shoulder), RB Derrick Ward (ankle), WR Domenik Hixon
(foot/ankle), WR Sinorice Moss (calf). Ward might be limited today
and perhaps Robbins as well. We'll find out later. Still, they
were all doing at least a little bit during individual drills
after sitting out yesterday. The only guy that's still out is LB
Gerris Wilkinson (knee), who's going to be out for a while.

4for4 reports: Giants WR Domenik Hixon (ankle, foot) did not
practice Wednesday but did some work Thursday. He's got a decent
chance to play against Carolina as does backup WR Sinorice Moss
(calf).

4for4 reports: Browns WR Joshua Cribbs (back) did not practice
Wednesday but did some work Thursday.

4for4 reports: Ravens RB Ray Rice (calf) was limited at practice
Wednesday and Thursday. He remains iffy for week 16.

St. Louis Dispatch: Like many NFL neophytes, Rams wide receiver
Donnie Avery hit the rookie wall. But he's over it now. "I've
climbed over the wall," Avery said. "I can't say I went through
it. I had to spend more time climbing over it." The climb was
painful. That's because a recent MRI exam revealed that the
fractured hip Avery suffered July 28 at training camp in Mequon,
Wis., never fully healed."I've still got a cracked hip," Avery
said. "It's not healed."

Chicago Sun Times: Bears RB Matt Forte held out with toe injury at
practice today.

4for4 reports: Bears RB Matt Forte (toe) did not practice Thursday
but remains probable. Forte said he'd be "100 percent" for
Monday's game.

4for4 reports: Lions RB Kevin Smith (ankle) was limited at
practice Wednesday and Thursday. He should start as normal.

4for4 reports: Broncos RB Selvin Young (groin) took reps Wednesday
and Thursday.