January 2009 4for4 Player News Articles

NFL reports: Cardinals DE Antonio Smith (knee) had full
participation in practice after limited duty throughout the week.
He is listed as probable for the Super Bowl. Three Cardinals
players were limited in practice, as they have been all week: RB
J.J. Arrington (knee), P Ben Graham (left groin) and DE Travis
LaBoy (biceps). The trio is listed as questionable for Sunday's
game.

NFL reports: Steelers WR Hines Ward (knee) participated in
practice Friday for the second straight day. He is listed as
probable on the injury report for Super Bowl XLIII, though coach
Mike Tomlin has insisted Ward will play. Ward returned to practice
Thursday for the first time in 11 days after suffering an injury
in the AFC Championship Game against Baltimore. Ward was the only
Pittsburgh player listed on the injury report.

NFL reports: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger practiced effectively, but at times,
be trying to stretch his mid-torso region during the workout at the University o
Tomlin denied a recent report that Roethlisberger had undergone X-rays on his ba
"Not that I heard," said Tomlin, who then asked Steelers spokesman Dave Lockett
any X-rays on Roethlisberger. Lockett said no. Then Tomlin said: "Ben's health i
subject of inaccurate reports. He's fine." Roethlisberger was hit in the rib/bac
AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens. He didn't come out of the ga
backup Byron Leftwich hurriedly warmed up in case he was needed. Roethlisberger
championship game that he was fine, and nothing had surfaced about his mid-torso
Thursday's report. Roethlisberger threw the ball well on short and deep routes T
including a 40-yard bullet to wide receiver Santonio Holmes and several sharp tosses to Ward.

AP reports: WR Anquan Boldin fully participated in the Cardinals'
Super Bowl practice Wednesday and showed no effects of a hamstring
injury that caused him to miss the NFC Divisional Playoff Game
three weeks ago. "He looked good today, and he also looked good
late last week," Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt said of
Boldin, who returned to play in the NFC Championship Game. "We
took a little easier on him early last week just to be safe."

NFL reports: Hines Ward practiced Thursday for the first time since suffering a
knee in the AFC Championship Game two weeks ago, and Pittsburgh Steelers head co
Tomlin said the wide receiver looked "awesome." Tomlin also reiterated what he h
past week: Ward will play Sunday in Super Bowl XLIII against the Arizona Cardina
where I thought he would be today," Tomlin said.

East Valley Tribune: Larry Fitzgerald is willing to rework his four-year, $40 mi
contract to help keep Anquan Boldin and perhaps others in the team's fold, Fitzg
indicated here Wednesday. Boldin has been dissatisfied with his contract, which
more years to run. "To keep my brother 'Q' or anybody else, I'll definitely help
Fitzgerald said. Fitzgerald pointed out the Cardinals "have been in the cellar o
for so long," and now they're in the Super Bowl, so he'd like to keep things rol
such an honor to play in this game. Anything I can do to help out."

TSN: Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward indicated during Media Day Tuesday that t
sprained knee is going well and he is likely to suit up for Super Bowl XLIII Sun
The 32-year-old had his knee bent backwards while being tackled by Frank Walker
through the first quarter of Pittsburgh's AFC Championship victory over rival Ba
games throughout his 11-year career. "Having a whole week off last week, I've tr
into one week," Ward said in front of a vast media contingent at Raymond James S

Arizona Republic: Arizona running back J.J. Arrington sat out practice for the
second day in a row on Friday but said "I'll be fine" when the Cardinals play
the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Super Bowl on Feb. 1. Arrington injured his right
knee late in the first half of Arizona's 32-25 victory over Philadelphia in the
NFC championship game. He was the only player to miss Friday's workout.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald is producing more with less this
season. He played at 228 pounds last year but recently weighed in at 213 pounds.
Fitzgerald made losing weight a goal in the off-season, because he thought it wo
his quickness and speed. The lighter weight is one reason he's improved at runni
the catch this season, he said. "I'm definitely able to sustain my speed a lot l
Fitzgerald said. "My endurance is better. I can run down the field repeatedly an
get winded. I think a lot of that is a tribute to John Lott (strength and condit
coach)."

Arizona Republic: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin participated in his second full
practice in a row. He missed the divisional playoff victory over Carolina with a
strained left hamstring but played against Philadelphia and said he felt no
problem with the leg this week. The Cardinals practice on Saturday then take
Sunday off before flying to Tampa on Monday.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin was asked repeatedly once again on
Monday about his sideline flare-up with offensive coordinator Todd Haley during
NFC Championship Game. Boldin answered politely each time he was asked and said
of the media scrutiny that has followed him since and the judgments of his reput
those who don't know him: "You can't get mad. Everybody has an opinion. But the
is, I'm only concerned about the people in that locker room, the guys I go to ba
Those are the only opinions that really matter to me."

Chargers.com: GM A.J. Smith, under fire for recent comments about the status of
running back Ladainian Tomlinson, decided he owed the future Hall of Famer a pho
call to clear the clouds of misinformation and speculation. So he picked up the
Monday evening and found Tomlinson in Tampa, Florida. "It was important to me th
L.T. know exactly what happened," Smith said referring to comments he made in th
Tribune regarding statements on L.T.'s web site. "I just answered a question an
unfortunately my response was inappropriate," said Smith, who has sat in the GM'
since 2003. "After reading my response to the question, I can see why it was in
the way it was. "I absolutely meant no disrespect toward L.T… none. I have the
respect for him on two fronts, as a player and as a person." Admittedly, Smith w
by some the comments made by the local and national media.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Steelers OT Max Starks (knee) practiced for the first time
this week, albeit wearing a knee brace. LB Lawrence Timmons (illness) also
returned after sitting out for two days, and C Justin Hartwig (knee) was
limited. There was no word on WR Hines Ward (knee), who previously said he
planned to rest this week and return to the practice field next week.

Pittsburgh Gazette on Hines Ward: " His knee feels better, Hines Ward said,
but then he has not tested it either. That will come tomorrow, he hopes, when
the Steelers begin their practices at the University of South Florida. "It feels
better," Ward said several hours after the Steelers' charter landed around noon
yesterday. "I don't have a brace on, I walk around fine. It's not going to be 10
percent, I'm not going to trick anybody, but I think I'm going to be good, to be
able to go out and perform like I want to." The Steelers receiver took a break
yesterday from a stepped-up pace of rehabilitation on his injured knee. "I've
been rehabbing all weekend long. Off today -- I did a little rehab this morning
before we came down here." He will resume this morning, then attend the
Steelers media interviews at Raymond James Stadium and "see where we're at."
"I really can't say because I haven't run or cut or done anything," said Ward,
who did not practice last week after the right MCL was sprained in the first
quarter of the Jan. 18 AFC championship game. "I was just constantly getting
treatment, 24 hours around the clock."

ESPN: Hines Ward isn't cutting or turning yet on an injury that sometimes takes
and weeks to heal. He's not running pass patterns or sprinting with much speed.
playing in the Super Bowl? Ward can't imagine it, and neither can any of his Ste
teammates. The one question hanging over the AFC champion Steelers as their prac
week begins is whether the wide receiver who owns most of the franchise's career
catching records will play with a sprained knee. To Ward, there's no question at
"I don't have a brace on, I'm walking around fine," Ward said Monday, not long a
arriving with his teammates. "I'm not going to be 100%, I'm not going to trick a
But I think I'm going to be able to go out there and perform like I'm used to."
he will likely wear a knee brace in the game.

NFL reports: Adam Schefter was asked will McNabb be back in philly for years to
"That's the question of the off-season, Josh. This has the makings of a Brett Fa
written on it. McNabb will want long-term security, the Eagles will balk at givi
too much of it, and it sets up a potential showdown. Now I remember two years ag
NFC team called the Eagles and asked what it would take to get McNabb. It was to
three first-round picks. Don't think the price would be that high now, but if Ph
ever decided it would be willing to entertain trade offers, the Eagles start by
least two first-round picks."

Dallas Morning News: Cowboys Felix Jones and Marion Barber are
expected to return by the minicamps and the OTAs. Jones is still
in a protective boot to make sure his toe heals properly.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Steelers HB Mewelde Moore, who left the game
with an ankle injury, also attended meetings yesterday and walked
around without any kind of support or protective boot. Safety Ryan
Clark, whose hit late in the game sent Ravens running back Willis Mcgahee to the hospital with a concussion, had no apparent injury.

ESPN: The Cardinals used only one receiver on nine of their final
14 plays in the NFC Championship Game. Anquan Boldin was not that
receiver. Boldin wasn't too happy with being minimized in the 4th
quarter of Arizona's 32-25 victory over the Eagles that clinched
the franchise's first Super Bowl berth. Late in the game, cameras
showed Boldin arguing with OC Todd Haley. "I was not given any
explanation why I was taken out," Boldin said Monday, during an
interview on ESPN's "NFL Live," when asked what led to the
sideline confrontation. "Like any competitor I wanted to know
why." Asked if he had any issues with Haley, Boldin said, "Not a
problem at all. I'm committed to this team ... one goal in mind
... to win the Super Bowl. That's why I came back early from the
facial injury. You don't get this opportunity all the time."

Baltimore Sun: Less than 24 hours after being wheeled from the AFC
championship game at Heinz Field on a stretcher, Ravens RB Willis Mcgahee was back in the team locker room at Owings Mills today
talking about the ferocious hit he had yet to see. "I'm all right.
Everything's OK," McGahee said after the team's final meeting of
the season with HC Harbaugh. "The MRI and CAT scans checked out
good, so everything's good." After catching a pass from QB Joe Flacco in the middle of the field and taking a few steps downfield
late in the 4th quarter of the Steelers' 23-14 win, McGahee was
drilled by Pittsburgh safety Ryan Clark. It appeared that Clark's
shoulder and head hit McGahee's head. McGahee fumbled the ball and
the Ravens RB stayed on the ground motionless for many minutes
while being attended by medical staff. He was eventually strapped
to a stretcher and taken from the field. After an overnight stay
at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, McGahee returned to Baltimore this
morning.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Hines Ward attended meetings at the Steelers'
practice facility yesterday, and at least one teammate predicted
he will play in Super Bowl XLIII. "I don't think there's any
question that 86 will be on the field," tight end Heath Miller
said. "I don't even know the extent of his injury, but I saw him
walking today, so I'm pretty sure that two weeks from now he'll be
playing." Ward has a slight MCL sprain in his right knee, injured
in the first quarter of the Steelers' 23-14 victory against
Baltimore for the AFC championship. He returned to catch one pass
early in the second quarter, then left the game for good after
catching three passes for 55 yards. The Steelers provided no
official update yesterday on the injury. Ward had been scheduled
for a MRI in the morning.

Dallas Morning News: As they gather here for Senior Bowl scouting
assignments this week trying improve their product on the field,
the Cowboys officials also face significant issues off the field.
Multiple sources close to the team paint a picture of turmoil
inside the locker room far greater than originally thought, and
the organization is determined to solve the problems. Sources say
there were many issues this season that call into question team
discipline, commitment and accountability. Owner and general
manager Jerry Jones said Monday night he would not discuss certain
aspects of the team, including the status of wide receiver Terrell Owens, the coaching staff - specifically OC Jason Garrett - and
recently cut cornerback Adam Jones. Jones did say he will talk
about other issues regarding the organization Tuesday. Coach Wade
Phillips wasn't available for comment Monday night. He declined to
talk to reporters earlier in the day.

Mlive.com: Grand Rapids Press columnist Brian VanOchten joined
Bill Simonson inside the "GR Press Box" to talk about the latest
with the Detroit Lions, including an early prediction on who he
thinks will start next year's season opener for Detroit. "If I had
to bet $1 one of the five quarterbacks the Lions used last season
as their starter (for next season), I'd put it on Jon Kitna,"
VanOchten said. "He makes the most sense. He can be their Kerry Collins. (Lions coach Jim Schwartz) may just want a quarterback to
come in and just sort of keep things under control. Jon Kitna is
the most qualified to do that."

Tampa Tribune: Bucs WR Michael Clayton on the firing of Jon Gruden, "How do you
build a championship team with all the inconsistency? You have to do it the
right way. I've always been a person who feels like you reap what you sow. You
have to treat people fairly.'' When asked what he wished Gruden would've done
differently, Clayton said, "It's about showing more confidence in your players.
He was kind of a turncoat. He'd tell you one thing and then do something else.''
Adam Schefter, NFL Network also on Jon Gruden and ''Bruce Allen firing...
''Bruce Allen said, 'December did us in.' So clearly there is a feeling between
Bruce Allen and Jon Gruden that the Buccaneers finish down the stretch when they
lost to the Oakland Raiders and cost the Buccaneers a playoff spot ultimately
cost Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen their jobs.''

San Diego Tribune: The Chargers - meaning President Dean Spanos, GM A.J. Smith,
VP Ed McGuire and HC Norv Turner - will consider four options with regard to
Ladainian Tomlinson's future with the team. Within the next month, they will
either keep him at his current salary level, approach him about a contract
renegotiation, try to trade him or release him. All four options - releasing
him or attempting to work out a new contract, or both, appear to be the most
likely scenarios - will be weighed with several factors in mind. The Chargers
likely would not want to guarantee Tomlinson too much, because of the point he
is at in his career. Plus, in regards to the salary cap, they are already on the
hook for the $2.066 million of signing bonus money from the contract he signed
in 2004. The willingness even to think about parting ways with Tomlinson is not
just because of money. There also is the fact he is going to be 30 in June and
has finished the past two seasons with serious injuries. Additionally, his
unhappiness with the offense has not gone unnoticed in the organization. Should
the team offer Tomlinson a reworked contract - and taking the $8.791 million cap
hit does not seem doable - he could reject the deal. That would essentially
force the Chargers to release or trade him.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals TE Stephen Spach suffered more than just a torn ante
cruciate ligament in his knee last week. He also suffered a torn medial collater
and meniscus. Spach said he will undergo surgery Thursday in Birmingham, Ala., w
Dr. James Andrews performing the operation. The torn MCL can be easily repaired
Spach said, and Andrews also will operate on the meniscus and ACL. Spach is hopi
that rehabilitation will take around six months, which would allow him to be rea
start of training camp.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals injury report: WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring), TE Ben Patrick (knee), DE/OLB Travis LaBoy, P Ben Graham (groin), questionable.

Arizona Republic: Eagles injury report: G Shawn Andrews (back) is out; T Jon Run
(knee), RB Brian Westbrook (knee), WR Jason Avant (knee), S Brian Dawkins (back)
DE Victor Abiamiri (foot), FB Dan Klecko (shoulder), probable.

Arizona Republic: Eagles running back Brian Westbrook said Friday that his knee
good," even better than last week, and that he will play Sunday. He practiced fo
time this week on Friday, but on a limited basis. Eagles coach Andy Reid said he
encouraged by the fact that Westbrook was able to practice Friday. "He's really
well down the stretch here," Reid said. "I think he's feeling pretty good."

Carroll County Times: The Ravens would like to get some snaps for rookie running
rust factor caused by missing four games with a shin contusion. "We haven't seen
hasn't been healthy," Cameron said. "But we think he's an outstanding football p
tough. Little more quickness in some areas than some guys. We're going to need h
no doubt about it. He 's probably the healthiest guy we have."

TSN: Cardinals Punter Ben Graham (groin), defensive end Travis
LaBoy (ankle) and tight end Ben Patrick (knee) are also listed as
questionable for Sunday.

4for4 reports: Ravens RB Leron Mcclain (ankle probable) should be ready Sunday.
Thursday, when asked about his ankle, McClain said, "The ankle is doing good. I
little bit more work today, so I'll see how it feels in the morning." Today, McC
some work in and is being called probable.

Buffalo News: Bills QB Trent Edwards does not need offseason surgery on his shou
league and team sources have told The News. Edwards saw several doctors after th
Bills' season ended to get an evaluation on his shoulder, which caused him some
later in the season. Those evaluations determined that the shoulder is not a ser
problem. The Bills stated they sent Edwards for a routine magnetic resonance ima
test on his shoulder during his yearend physical. He did not miss any playing ti
result of the soreness during the season. Edwards did miss 2z games in December
a strained groin. He returned to play the final two games of the season.

4for4 reports: The Eagles WR Jason Avant (knee probable) had a good week and was
able to practice fully again on Friday after being limited Wednesday.

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Mark Clayton (thigh) is probable and was able to do som
things today at practice.

4for4 reports: Eagles FB Dan Klecko (shoulder probable) took reps all week inclu
Friday.

4for4 reports: Steelers RB Willie Parker was full-go today at practice according
Tomlin. The coach also went on to talk about S Troy Polamalu and told reporters
practiced today. "Yes. As a matter of fact he wasn't limited in any way. He had
good day."

4for4 reports: After practice today, WR Larry Fitzgerald said, "It was a crisp F
practice. It was actually what we tried to do, set out to do. We really didn't h
many mental mistakes out there, so that's the way you want your Fridays to be."

TSN: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin continued to move towards being able to play in
Game against the Philadelphia Eagles as he practiced in a limited role for the s
Boldin, who suffered a hamstring injury against Atlanta two weeks ago in Arizona
practice all last week and missed the Cardinals' divisional playoff bout against
the Cardinals rolled to a 33-13 decision over the top-seeded Panthers to advance
title game. Boldin had already missed the final two regular-season contests beca
had 89 receptions for 1,038 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games, earning his thi
Punter Ben Graham (groin), defensive end Travis LaBoy (ankle) and tight end Ben
limited in Thursday's practice session.

TSN: Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin was limited but
practiced for a third straight day on Friday in preparation for
Sunday's NFC Championship game against the Eagles. Although he is
officially listed as questionable, Boldin stated during the week
that he would suit up come Sunday. Boldin, who suffered a
hamstring injury against Atlanta two weeks ago in Arizona's NFC
wild card contest, did not practice all last week and missed the
Cardinals' divisional playoff bout against Carolina. Despite
Boldin's absence, the Cardinals rolled to a 33-13 decision over
the Panthers to advance to the franchise's first NFC title game.
Boldin had already missed the final two regular-season contests
because of a shoulder injury, but still had 89 receptions for
1,038 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games, earning his third
career Pro Bowl selection.

4for4 reports: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring) is expected to play Sunday
the NFC Championship Game. "I felt good," Boldin said. "I've practiced all week.
nothing else happens at this point I will be out on the field." He went on to s
good with percentages. I'm good enough to play, and that is all that matters." F
Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt talking about Boldin today said, "I think we'll get a
feel as the game goes on. I expect him to be in the game. We'll see how it goes,
gets involved with the flow of the game. Obviously we'll give him as much as he
handle. I think when you get into a game like this and your adrenaline is going,
times you can go right into it and play. But we'll see."

TSN: Eagles RB Brian Westbrook and starting offensive tackle Jon Runyan each sat
their second straight practice on Thursday in preparation for Sunday's NFC
Championship Game against the Cardinals. The duo being held out shouldn't come a
surprise as both missed all of last week's sessions to rest their ailments befor
last Sunday's 23-11 upset of the Giants in Philadelphia's divisional playoff til
Westbrook, dealing with a knee injury, was limited to just 36 rushing yards on 1
while catching only two passes for 10 yards in the win. Runyan is also battling
injury.

TSN: Eagles running back Brian Westbrook was a limited participant
in practice on Friday and is expected to be active for Sunday's
NFC Championship Game against the Arizona Cardinals.

4for4 reports: After resting the past few days, Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (knee
probable) participated in some drills Friday and is expected to start in Sunday'
Championship Game. Today, Westbrook said, "I feel great." Talking about his knee
taking practice, he said, "It feels good." Westbrook's backup Correll Buckhalter
expected to be full-go Sunday. For his part, Coach Reid said, "Westbrook was out
he did three quarters of practice and so did the rest of the guys here."

Carroll County Times: Ravens TE Todd Heap (back), Reed (knee/nerve impingement),
Lewis (shoulder) and fullback Lorenzo Neal (shoulder) were limited.

4for4 reports: Ravens TE Todd Heap (back) is on track to start and is listed as
for Sunday. He did take part in some drills each day this week including Friday.

4for4 reports: Steelers starting WR Hines Ward took full reps again on Friday.

4for4 reports: According to QB Donovan Mcnabb, the Eagles are very loose and tha
the way they have been for the past few weeks. The fact the Eagles have played i
NFC Championship five times in the last eight years might help as well.

Carroll County Times: Ravens outside linebacker Jarret Johnson (calf) and fullba
returned to practice on a limited basis. "The ankle is doing good," McClain said
today, so I'll see how it feels in the morning." Linebacker Terrell Suggs (right
tackle Justin Bannan (foot), wide receiver Mark Clayton (thigh), cornerback Sama
and wide receiver Derrick Mason (knee/dislocated left shoulder) didn't practice
day. There's growing concern that Rolle may miss this game.

4for4 reports: When asked about his knee injury today, Derrick Mason told us: "I
the knee, it's fine. It hurts a little, but after you play 17, 18 straight weeks
going to hurt on your body. I think the good thing about it is that it's taking
from my shoulder. So, now I no longer have to worry about my shoulder. I'm just
worried about my knee. Typically, this has been going on for a bit, once game ti
comes and I get warmed up, I'm usually over it." Officially, the Ravens list Mas
probable despite the veteran not taking part in team drills this week.

Seattle Post Intelligencer: The combination of Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck's inj
(back), age and elevated contract status prompted more than a few reports and ru
the past few months that he could be released or traded this offseason. The look
president Tim Ruskell's face when presented with that scenario screams please. "
our QB," Ruskell said. "I'm very happy that he is." Jim Mora, the former seconda
who has replaced Mike Holmgren as head coach, echoed that sentiment Tuesday.
"Certainly, Matt Hasselbeck is the point man," Mora said. "He's our point guard.
triggerman. He's our quarterback. I'm very excited about that. "Matt is a specia
He's a special man. And he gives us a ton of flexibility. The most important thi
right now is that Matt get -- and stay -- healthy."

Seattle Post Intelligencer: Seahawks Matt Hasselbeck says that dealing with the
which began in August and never was right for the entire season - will help him
moves forward. "Just even the short time I was doing (the rehab), I felt like I
more velocity on my ball and I was throwing it farther," he said. "And that's wh
hurt." The pain of standing and watching far too much of the team's 4-12 season
greater than anything going on in his back. "I was just very disappointed that I
part of it," Hasselbeck said. "I just feel like I didn't have an opportunity to
season, and I didn't help - I really didn't add anything good to the team's chan
into the playoffs and accomplish some of our goals." His goal next season will b
complete the season. It didn't happen in '08 because: He took a hit and twisted
in the preseason opener, which prompted the medical staff to shut him down until
regular-season opener; his right knee was hyperextended in the Week 5 loss to th
Giants, which led to his missing the next 5 games; and then he was smacked by Co
LB DeMarcus Ware in the Thanksgiving Day loss at Dallas, which ended Hasselbeck'
season. "Sure, you have to think about the future, and Matt is not going to play
Ruskell said. "He is still playing at a high level and he is still our QB, and w
good about that. "At some point, you will have to plan for the future, and we ar
cognitive of that."

East Valley Tribune: Cardinals defensive end/linebacker Travis LaBoy (ankle) and
tight end Ben Patrick (knee) had limited practices.

4for4 reports: Cardinals TE Ben Patrick (knee) got some work in both Wednesday
and Thursday. Bottom line at TE? Stephen Spach will not play and Leonard Pope
and Patrick should both be able to dress out.

Carroll County Times: Ravens WR Demetrius Williams, who's on injured reserve
after undergoing surgery to repair his ankle and Achilles' tendon, said he's on
schedule to return by spring minicamps. "I'm feeling fine, I'm back running
now," he said. "I should be back by minicamp. I knocked it out early as far as
having surgery. It definitely hurts not being out there with the guys, but I
have a lot of confidence in them and I think they'll do well."

East Valley Tribune: Eagles who were had limited practices included guard Shawn
Andrews (back), receiver Jason Avant (knee), running back Correll Buckhalter
(knee) and safety Brian Dawkins (back

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Jason Avant (knee) took part in team drills today. He
should be ready Sunday.

Carroll County Times: The other Ravens sidelined were: defensive tackle Justin
Bannan (foot); linebacker Jarret Johnson (calf); running back Le'Ron McClain
(ankle); wide receivers Derrick Mason (knee) and Mark Clayton (thigh). The
Ravens ruled out linebacker Antwan Barnes (chest).

4for4 reports: Baltimore WR Mark Clayton (thigh) did not practice Wednesday or
Thursday. Still, they expect him to do more Friday and start Sunday against the
Steelers.

Carroll County Times: Steelers Wednesday Injury Report: safety Troy Polamalu
(calf) and center Justin Hartwig (knee) didn't practice. Running back Willie Parker, wide receiver Hines Ward, defensive end Aaron Smith and cornerback
Deshea Townsend were given the day off from practice, but aren't injured.

4for4 reports: Steelers RB Willie Parker got back to reps today. Parker is fully
expected to start Sunday against he Ravens. Ditto for WR Hines Ward. A healthy
Parker and Ward is a huge help to Ben Roethlisberger.

East Valley Tribune: Anquan Boldin says he has "no doubt" he'll be able to play
in Sunday's NFC title game. Boldin returned to practice Wednesday in limited
fashion in hopes of making this come true. "I'll be out there," Boldin said.
Boldin said he practiced in "spurts" and that "I tried to keep everything short"
to protect his injured left hamstring. Boldin said the injury is the residue of
a hip injury he suffered last season in a game at Baltimore, an injury he said
irritated a number of muscles in the area. But he said that once the current
injury heals, he believes the problem shouldn't recur. Boldin, noting he didn't
play well in the Cardinals' blowout loss at Philadelphia on Thanksgiving night,
said, "It's great you get a second chance."

4for4 reports: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin (hamstring) looked better today than
Wednesday according to Coach Ken Whisenhunt. Adding to that, we saw Boldin got
plenty of reps today. Still Boldin was officially limited at practice both
Wednesday and Thursday. As of now, word is Boldin should be able to start
Sunday. 4for4 key take: last week Carolina left Larry Fitzgerald
in single coverage and that's very possible this Sunday if Boldin starts.

East Valley Tribune: Eagles star running back Brian Westbrook (knee) and tackle
Jon Runyan (knee) didn't practice.

4for4 reports: Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (knee) did not practice Wednesday or
Thursday. Still, Philadelphia expects Westbrook to get on the practice field
Friday and start as normal against the Cardinals Sunday. Even if Westbrook sits
out Friday, we've been told he will start this weekend. The real question here
is will B-West be able to run against the Cardinals? Keep in mind AZ held the
Falcons Michael Turner to just 42-yards and the Panthers RBs only gained
75 yards last week.

4for4 reports: Eagles RB Correll Buckhalter (knee) did some things at practice
Wednesday and ran fully Thursday. Word from South Philly is he'll dress Sunday.

Carroll County Times: Ravens TE Todd Heap (back), linebacker Ray Lewis
(shoulder), fullback Lorenzo Neal (shoulder) and free safety Ed Reed (knee), who
also has a nerve impingement in his neck, were limited in practice. "Relatively,
this season I've been pretty healthy compared to last year," Heap said. "But the
last few weeks I've played through quite a bit of pain and it's all been worth
it to get to this point, though. It's been progressively getting better, which
is good, and I'll be ready to go again this week."

TSN: Baltimore running back Le'Ron McClain was back at practice on Thursday whil
Suggs and wide receiver Derrick Mason continue to be held out as the Ravens prep
Steelers in Sunday's AFC Championship Playoff game. McClain (ankle) and lineback
Johnson (calf) took limited reps Thursday and were among seven players to miss p
Wednesday along with Suggs (shoulder), Mason (knee), wide receiver Mark Clayton
tackle Justin Bannan (foot), and cornerback Samari Rolle (thigh). Clayton, Banna
for a second straight day on Thursday while tight end Todd Heap (back), lineback
(shoulder), fullback Lorenzo Neal (shoulder), and safety Ed Reed (knee) were lim
Wednesday and Thursday. In two games this postseason, Suggs has tallied nine tac
and has recovered a fumble, Mason has 149 receiving yards and one touchdown and
rushed for 87 yards, including one score.

4for4 reports: Ravens TE Todd Heap (back) did some limited work both Wednesday
and Thursday. We've been told he'll start as normal.

Carroll County Times: Including Rolle (groin) and linebacker Terrell Suggs
(strained right shoulder), seven Raven starters were held out of practice. Suggs
and Rolle, who also has a hamstring injury, are the biggest question marks for
Sunday. Also not practicing: defensive tackle Justin Bannan (foot), linebacker
Jarret Johnson (calf), running back Le'Ron McClain (ankle) and wide receivers
Derrick Mason (knee) and Mark Clayton (thigh). Of course, Mason also has a
dislocated left shoulder. But the Ravens only listed the knee injury he received
treatment for Wednesday.

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Derrick Mason (knee) is resting and did not practice
Thursday. While his shoulder and knee are not 100%, Mason should be ready on
Sunday. We'll have more Friday after the practice.

New York Daily News: Eli Manning's contract is due to expire after next season,
and sometime in the next year - probably the next few months - the Giants will
take the first steps toward making him the next member of the $100 million QB
club. Manning might even end up being the highest-paid member, as several NFL
sources said his next deal could be worth a league-high $15 million per season.
That would be an average of $1 million more than his brother Peyton is making on
the 7-year, $98 million deal he signed with the Colts in 2004. Based on
interviews with several agents and personnel people, Eli Manning appears to be
in line for a7- or 8-year contract worth $110 million-$120 million with $40
million in guarantees. That would make the 28-year-old the eighth quarterback
to top the $100 million barrier, and would put him near the top with Philly's
Donovan Mcnabb (12 years, $115million), Cincinnati's Carson Palmer (9 years,
$118.75 million), and former Atlanta QB Michael Vick (10 years, $130 million).
"We know," said one team source. "But that's money we're going to be happy to
pay."

AP reports: Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin practiced Wednesday, and says he will pla
Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Eagles. Boldin, who with Larry Fitzgerald forms arguably the best receiving tandem in football, said a trip to
chiropractor has greatly improved his strained left hamstring. The injury kept B
of the Cardinals' 33-13 victory at Carolina in Saturday's divisional playoff gam
out there Sunday," he said after practice. Boldin said he was able to participat
phases of practice, but in shorter spurts than normal. He said he expected to be
effective" in what would be the biggest game of his career. "I don't see there b
problems, no hindrances or anything like that," Boldin said. "I'll just be mysel
resume my regular role." Coach Ken Whisenhunt held out final judgment on Boldin'
status until he sees how the receiver does as the week progresses, but the coach
optimistic. "If he continues to progress like we think he is, I have no doubts h
play," Whisenhunt said.

AP reports: Brian Westbrook walks around slowly, often with a limp. He watches
practices from the sideline, needing the extra rest to be ready for game days. I
limited Westbrook's production this season, but the Eagles still rely on their d
running back, even if he's only a decoy at times. "It's frustrating when you're
percent," Westbrook said Wednesday. "I've been battling all year. I continue to
positive, I can do the things I need to do to help this team." Westbrook missed
with an ankle injury and another with broken ribs. He also has sore knees that m
difficult for him to climb four steps to reach the podium for his weekly news co
It's no wonder with the way he hobbles that coach Andy Reid gives Westbrook time
during the week. Westbrook sat out Wednesday's practice, but he'll certainly pla
the Cardinals in Sunday's NFC Championship Game.

ESPN: Cardinals starting tight end Stephen Spach is out for the
playoffs with a torn knee ligament. Spach tore his right anterior
cruciate ligament while blocking in the second half of Saturday
night's 33-13 victory over the Panthers. He was signed as a free
agent on Oct. 28 to shore up the injury-depleted position and
became a starter against the 49ers on Nov. 10. His blocking helped
the team's improved running game, and he had a game-clinching 23-
yard catch on a third-and-16 situation late in Arizona's 30-24
wild-card victory over the Falcons.

Carroll County Times: Ravens rookie running back Ray Rice played
in his first game since suffering a shin contusion of his left leg
against the Washington Redskins last month, making a brief cameo
appearance in Tennessee. "Ray will be ready to go," Harbaugh said.
"He's healthy, he'll practice and we're looking forward to seeing
how much he plays as well."

ESPN: Steelers fans were concerned when Ben Roethlisberger went
down against the Browns in the final regular season game. Turns
out, they had reason to worry. The team said then that their
franchise QB suffered a concussion, but the Pittsburgh Post-
Gazette reported on Monday that the injury was more serious.
Roethlisberger suffered a spinal cord concussion, and he called it
"scary" when he could not feel team doctors sticking a pin into
his arm on the field. The quarterback was tackled by two Browns
defenders and appeared to hit his head on the turf. His face mask
was removed, he was placed on a spinal board and carted off the
field. At Presbyterian Hospital, he quickly regained feeling in his arms and was
later released. The newpaper reported that he never lost feeling in his legs.
Roethlisberger passed all of his follow-up tests for concussions. He returned to
the field for a playoff game on Sunday and passed for 181 yards and a touchdown,
without an interception, in the Steelers' 35-24 win over the Chargers.

ESPN: I was uncertain if Pro Bowl receiver Anquan Boldin, who sat
out against the Panthers with a strained left hamstring, would
play in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Eagles. Boldin
tested the injury just before kickoff at Carolina and decided he
wasn't ready to go. He said afterward that if the injury continued
to improve, he liked his chances of playing in the NFC title game.
"We're a week further along in the process of that hamstring
getting better, so hopefully he'll be able to do something this
week," coach Ken Whisenhunt said, "but we'll see as the work
progresses."

Nashville Tennessean: The Titans also hope to re-sign #3 QB Chris Simms, Fisher said.

Chargers.com: RB Ladainian Tomlinson hopes that a month of rest
will allow his strained groin to heal, but he hasn't ruled out the
possibility of offseason surgery. "We've got a deadline that if
I'm not feeling better by then, then we probably might have to do
something," Tomlinson said. "Hopefully we won't have to because I
think in a month's time I feel like I'll be feeling better."
Sunday was the first time in LT's NFL career in which injury
caused him to be inactive for a game. He said that he's talked to
other players who have dealt with his injury and successfully seen
the strain heal without an operation.

Nashville Tennessean: As the Titans packed up Monday, QB Kerry Collins
reiterated his feelings from a few months back. Yet after a season in which he
guided the Titans to the NFL's best record and the AFC's top seed, his words
carry more weight. He wants to return to Tennessee as the starter. "I made my
case known, that I'd like to be here and feel that I can be a part of several
more good seasons. I have several good years left in me, I know that," Collins
said. "I will pack up and go somewhere else. I don't want to, but that's the
reality of this business… I am a starter in this league and if nothing
materializes that way I will retire." Just 2 days into the offseason, Fisher
wasn't prepared to declare his plans at QB, but he said the Titans would like to
re-sign Collins. The Titans prefer a salary cap-friendly, 2-year deal in the
range of $4 million plus incentives, and there are indications they envision him
remaining the starter. Collins replaced Young late in the Week 1 win over the
Jaguars, and Young spent the rest of the season as a backup. The Titans went on
to finish 13-4. Young was not in the locker room Monday when it was open to the
media. Fisher said Young would be on the roster next season, but estimated the
36-year-old Collins has 2 or 3 years of football left.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals TE Stephen Spach suffered a sprained
right knee Saturday night and was wearing a brace and walking with
crutches after the game. He is expected to undergo an MRI within a
day or two to determine the severity of the injury. If he can't
play, it would have a big impact on the offense. He's emerged as
the No. 1 tight end and his blocking is one reason the Cardinals
run game has improved in recent weeks.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals TE Stephen Spach suffered a sprained
right knee Saturday night and was wearing a brace and walking with
crutches after the game. He is expected to undergo an MRI within a
day or two to determine the severity of the injury. If he can't
play, it would have a big impact on the offense. He's emerged as
the No. 1 tight end and his blocking is one reason the Cardinals
run game has improved in recent weeks.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals backup Leonard Pope has been playing
with a sore knee and the third tight end, Ben Patrick, missed
Saturday's game with a knee sprain.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals backup Leonard Pope has been playing
with a sore knee and the third tight end, Ben Patrick, missed
Saturday's game with a knee sprain.

Arizona Republic: The Cardinals are enjoying good fortune on the
field. Now, they hope to get some from the trainer's room, too.
Two key offensive players - WR Anquan Boldin and tight end Stephen Spach -are coping with significant injuries, and their
availability for the NFC championship game against the Eagles on
Sunday is in question. Boldin missed Saturday's victory over
Carolina after suffering a hamstring strain the previous week
against Atlanta. "I want to get out there for a couple days and
get a couple practices under my belt before I step out on the game
field," Boldin said Saturday night. Boldin said the injury
improved with last week's rest and he's hopeful of playing against
the Eagles in the championship game.

Newark Star Ledger: For weeks, no one wanted to say it. Not even
Tom Coughlin after Sunday's crushing playoff loss to the Eagles
ended the Giants' season in a manner they never expected. But GM
Jerry Reese was blunt after the game when asked if the Giants'
offense missed beleaguered WR Plaxico Burress. "Obviously, it's
hard to replace that," Reese said in a nearly-empty locker room.
"The guy has a presence out there and when you lose that, teams
play you differently. We made some adjustments, but today we had
opportunities. We just didn't make enough plays." The big
question, then, is whether the Giants' struggles without Burress
have nudged the team toward bringing him back, provided he doesn't
get sent to prison for illegal gun possession. Before Burress'
suspension, Eli Manning had completed 62% of his passes and had a
passer rating of 91.3. In the 5 games after Burress' season was
ended by the team's placing him on the non-football injury list,
Manning completed only 54% of his passes and had a dreadful rating
of 63.6. "If everything goes all right, yeah," Reese said when
asked if Burress could return next season. "Absolutely."

Newark Star Ledger: For weeks, no one wanted to say it. Not even
Tom Coughlin after Sunday's crushing playoff loss to the Eagles
ended the Giants' season in a manner they never expected. But GM
Jerry Reese was blunt after the game when asked if the Giants'
offense missed beleaguered WR Plaxico Burress. "Obviously, it's
hard to replace that," Reese said in a nearly-empty locker room.
"The guy has a presence out there and when you lose that, teams
play you differently. We made some adjustments, but today we had
opportunities. We just didn't make enough plays." The big
question, then, is whether the Giants' struggles without Burress
have nudged the team toward bringing him back, provided he doesn't
get sent to prison for illegal gun possession. Before Burress'
suspension, Eli Manning had completed 62% of his passes and had a
passer rating of 91.3. In the 5 games after Burress' season was
ended by the team's placing him on the non-football injury list,
Manning completed only 54% of his passes and had a dreadful rating
of 63.6. "If everything goes all right, yeah," Reese said when
asked if Burress could return next season. "Absolutely."

ESPN: The Philly district attorney who decided last week against
charging Marvin Harrison in connection with an April 29 shooting
that left 3 people wounded did so despite being in possession of a
statement from a second victim who claimed he saw the Colts WR
gripping a gun during the altercation, a law enforcement source
said. The statement by Robert Nixon would apparently corroborate
the statement of Dwight Dixon, another shooting victim, and
contradict Harrison, who admits that he was in a fistfight with
Dixon but insists he was unarmed when gunfire erupted outside his
North Philadelphia car wash, Chuckie's Garage, following the
altercation. Three people were injured during the shooting. Dixon
was shot in the left hand. Nixon was struck in his back by one of
the shots that ricocheted up West Thompson Street. A 3rd victim, a
child sitting in a nearby car, suffered an eye injury from
shattered glass. At a news conference on Tuesday, Philly D.A.
Lynne Abraham said she would not bring charges against Harrison,
citing a lack of credible witnesses.

ESPN: The Philly district attorney who decided last week against
charging Marvin Harrison in connection with an April 29 shooting
that left 3 people wounded did so despite being in possession of a
statement from a second victim who claimed he saw the Colts WR
gripping a gun during the altercation, a law enforcement source
said. The statement by Robert Nixon would apparently corroborate
the statement of Dwight Dixon, another shooting victim, and
contradict Harrison, who admits that he was in a fistfight with
Dixon but insists he was unarmed when gunfire erupted outside his
North Philadelphia car wash, Chuckie's Garage, following the
altercation. Three people were injured during the shooting. Dixon
was shot in the left hand. Nixon was struck in his back by one of
the shots that ricocheted up West Thompson Street. A 3rd victim, a
child sitting in a nearby car, suffered an eye injury from
shattered glass. At a news conference on Tuesday, Philly D.A.
Lynne Abraham said she would not bring charges against Harrison,
citing a lack of credible witnesses.

Eagles inactives: AJ Feeley (third QB), RB Lorenzo Booker, LB Joe
Mays, DE Bryan Smith, G Shawn Andrews, WR Greg Lewis, TE Matt Schobel and CB Dimitri Patterson.

AP reports: Eagles starting fullback Dan Klecko (shoulder) is
listed as doubtful for Sunday, while guard Shawn Andrews, who
hasn't played since September, is officially out after practicing
this week for the first time since undergoing back surgery.

TSN: Lawrence Tynes has spent most of the season after kicking the
game-winning field goal in the NFC title game as a spectator for
the Super Bowl champion New York Giants. Tynes hurt his knee in
training camp, and lost his job because 44-year-old John Carney
joined the Giants and basically didn't miss. Carney, who was named
a second-team All Pro on Friday, hit 35 of 38 field goals attempts
and all 38 of his extra points in helping the Giants (12-4) win
the NFC East and earn the conference's top seed. It was impossible
for coach Tom Coughlin to give Tynes' his job back, although it
was also impossible for the team to cut the 30-year-old kicker.
With wind gusts expected to be in the 15-to-25 mph range in the
NFC semifinal against the Eagles on Sunday, there is a chance that
Coughlin might dress Tynes to handle the kickoffs. "I won't know
until 10:30 (a.m.) on Sunday," Tynes said Friday after handling
the kickoffs in the early part of practice. Coughlin refused to
indicate what he would do.

AP reports: Chargers PK Nate Kaeding is battling a groin injury
and sat out practice the last two days. He is listed as probable,
as is linebacker Brandon Siler, who missed the team's last two
games with a foot issue.

AP reports: Chargers TE Antonio Gates is listed as questionable,
as he is still dealing with a high ankle sprain. He has also sat
out practice for the duration of the week after recording a team-
best eight receptions for 87 yards in last week's victory.

AP reports: Eagles running back Brian Westbrook returned to the
practice field on a limited basis Friday and is listed as probable
for Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff battle with the New York
Giants. Westbrook has battled numerous injuries throughout a
season that saw him miss two games early on. The Eagles' leading
rusher (936 yards) and touchdown scorer (11 total) is currently
nursing a knee injury that caused him to be listed as questionable
for last Sunday's Wild Card bout with Minnesota.

AP reports: Baltimore safety Ed Reed, wide receiver Derrick Mason
and tight end Todd Heap are among eight Ravens listed as
questionable for Saturday's AFC Divisional Playoff contest against
the Titans. Reed didn't practice this week due to both illness and
a knee injury. The Pro Bowl selection and regular-season leader in
interceptions with nine was also listed as questionable for
Baltimore's 27-9 wild card victory against Miami last Sunday in
which he picked off two passes, returning one for a 64-yard score.
Mason was limited on Thursday and sat Wednesday while nursing a
shoulder injury. He led the team with 80 catches for 1,037 yards
and 5 TDs during the regular season. Heap sat out both practice
sessions this week because of a back injury. Other starters listed
as questionable for the Ravens this week include CBs Samari Rolle
(thigh) and Fabian Washington (neck), LB Jarret Johnson (calf), DL
Justin Bannan (foot) and kicker Matt Stover (ankle). Backup LB
Antwan Barnes (chest) has been ruled out for Saturday.

AP reports: Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson is listed as
doubtful for Sunday's playoff game against the Steelers.
Tomlinson, who hasn't practiced all week with a torn groin muscle,
sat out the entire second half of the Chargers' overtime win over
the Colts last week after aggravating the injury. He recorded 25
yards on five rushes with a touchdown against Indianapolis.

4for4 reports: Cardinals TE Ben Patrick (knee questionable)
did not practice this week and is a long shot to play. On
the plus side, they expect to have TE Leonard Pope (knee
probable) available.

4for4 reports: The Titans downgraded TE Bo Scaife (illness)
to probable today, but he did some things at practice
Friday. Barring a real turn for the worse, Scaife should
play against the Ravens.

4for4 reports: On the plus side for SD, WR Malcom Floyd
(lung) is improving and has a chance to play.

4for4 reports: Chargers K Nate Kaeding (right groin) is
probable and should be rested after not taking part in
drills Thursday and Friday.

4for4 reports: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger (concussion)
is going to start. He's listed as probable and finished the
week up Friday in good shape.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Greg Lewis (foot) and TE L.J.
Smith (shoulder) both practiced fully this week and are
probable for the Giants.

4for4 reports: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (ankle, Achilles)
is listed as questionable and did not practice this week,
but he's still expected to dress out and start against the
Steelers.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Kevin Curtis (calf) completed the
week with full reps Friday. He's ready to start.

Philly.com: In other injury news, corner Asante Samuel (hip)
participated in a full practice yesterday after sitting out
Wednesday. Running back Brian Westbrook (knee) and fullback Dan Klecko (shoulder) sat out for the second straight day. Safety
Brian Dawkins (back), defensive lineman Victor Abiamiri (foot),
and linebacker Stewart Bradley (ribs) took part in a full practice
after being limited on Wednesday Asked what the Eagles would do at
fullback if Klecko can't play, Mornhinweg said backup running back
Correll Buckhalter would play the position, as he did at times
during Sunday's 26-14 first-round victory over Minnesota. "You saw
him last game; he will play fullback for us," Mornhinweg said.
"Kyle [Eckel] is getting quite a few reps there. So we'll see on
Dan, if he's available. Then Buck will play that fullback spot."

4for4 reports: Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (knee probable)
rested Thursday but did some limited work Friday, so he
will be ready to start.

4for4 reports: Eagles FB Dan Klecko (shoulder) is doubtful
so Correll Buckhalter could get a few more game snaps at
fullback to go along with his normal backup RB playing
time.

Carroll County Times: Ravens Tight end Todd Heap didn't practice
again due to a lingering back injury and was walking very stiffly
after practice in the locker room. Heap sounded certain that he
would play even though his injury seems to be more severe than
what he's letting on. "I'm feeling all right," he said. "I'll be
ready to go."

4for4 reports: As expected, Ravens TE Todd Heap (back
questionable) was able to get back and do some things on
Friday. While a back injury can be fickle, Heap is expected
to start.

4for4 reports: Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson (groin) is
doubtful to play. He'll be a game time call, but he did
not practice this week. At best, we're expecting a few
carries. Bottom line: We believe Darren Sproles will do the
heavy RB lifting for SD.

Carroll County Times: Ravens DT Justin Bannan (foot), linebacker
Jarret Johnson (calf), cornerback Samari Rolle (hamstring) and
kicker Matt Stover (sprained right ankle) were limited, too.
Stover said his ankle has improved. "The ankle is doing all
right," Stover said. Rolle, who underwent neck surgery earlier
this season, said there's no doubt that he'll play again next
season. He's under contract through the 2010 season at more than
$4 million per season.

4for4 reports: Ravens K Matt Stover (right ankle
questionable) did some more drills Friday and is expected
to kick this weekend.

Carroll County Times: Ravens Wide receiver Derrick Mason
(dislocated left shoulder) returned to practice on a limited
basis.

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Derrick Mason (shoulder
questionable) did some things both Thursday and Friday.
They expect him to start as normal.

Arizona Republic: Cardinals DE/OLB Travis LaBoy (ankle) practiced
on a limited basis all week and should play. I don't expect TE Ben Patrick (knee) to play, but Leonard Pope (knee) practiced all
week, and starter Stephen Spach is healthy. Pope missed last
week's game.

4for4 reports: Cardinals TE Ben Patrick (knee) is very iffy for
Carolina. Most likely, Arizona will look to Leonard Pope (knee)
and Stephen Spach at TE.

4for4 reports: If Boldin can't go, Steve Breaston would fill in.
He's more than capable. Still, the loss of Boldin would limit the
Cardinals attack. To overcome Bolden's absence, the Cards will
need Jerheme Urban to step up big-time.

Cleveland Plain Dealer: New Browns coach Eric Mangini was non-
committal, saying he'd evaluate the quarterbacks on their huddle
presence and other qualities. "When it's right, you just know," he
said.

Pioneer Press: Vikings HC Childress said he will evaluate all
options this offseason at the QB position, meaning quarterback
Tarvaris Jackson is not entrenched as the starter moving forward.
Childress said he's not going to evaluate the QB position
throughout the offseason. "I'm not going to pass judgment right at
this particular point," Childress said. "I think you owe (it) to
everybody here and the organization, just like we always have, to
turnover all the rocks and see what you have there. "I would also
say that there's a point with Tarvaris of continuing to evolve as
a QB. While you'd like that process to happen immediately, it
doesn't always happen immediately. There's not anything we're
going to leave unturned in terms of free agency, the draft, and
that goes on until after the draft. You see who's out there and by
the same token, Tarvaris is going to be here and we're going to
continue to get him better. "Tarvaris did a ton of good this year
and unfortunately you have that bad taste in your mouth from that
last game."

San Diego Tribune: Chargers WR Vincent Jackson was on probation
stemming from a 2006 drunken driving conviction when he was
arrested early Tuesday on suspicion of DUI, according to court
documents. Jackson, 25, was arrested on June 12, 2006, and
pleaded guilty to misdemeanor driving under the influence about
four months later. He was ordered not to drive with a measurable
amount of alcohol or drugs in his system while on probation.

4for4 reports: The Giants played the Eagles two times this year.
The first time, they ran for over 200 yards. The next time, they
only managed 88 yards. While Brandon Jacobs has practiced well
this week and looks ready for a big game, it's certainly not a
lock.

4for4 reports: Chargers K Nate Kaeding (right groin) did some
drills this week and should be able to kick this weekend.

4for4 reports: The loss of Tomlinson is far from trivial. The last
time out against the Steelers, Philip Rivers threw two
interceptions and the Steelers have only allowed 3-TDs in their
past four homes games. Any way you cut it, the Chargers need RB
Darren Sproles to play big this weekend.

4for4 reports: The Steelers fully expect QB Ben Roethlisberger
(concussion) to start as normal this weekend. He took reps
Wednesday and Thursday. Last time out against SD, Big Ben had a
300-yard game, however the Steelers only scored 11 points.

North County Times: In addition to Tomlinson, tight end Antonio Gates and defensive tackle Jamal Williams didn't participate in
Wednesday's workout. Gates is recovering from a high ankle sprain
and Williams took the day to rest. Both are expected to play
against the Steelers. Gates said he feels about the same as he did
last week at this time after getting hurt against Denver. "I was a
little sore coming off the (Indianapolis) game," Gates said.
"Obviously that was my expectations and I kind of had to plan that
if I was going to play I was going to feel a certain way. That's
exactly what happened. I felt really, really sore on Sunday. I
felt really, really sore on Monday and Tuesday and I'm able to
walk around pretty decent (Wednesday), kind of normal to where it
was last week."

4for4 reports: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (ankle) did not practice
Wednesday and was held back again today. His ankle could limit his
impact against the Steelers, but he's still expected to start.

4for4 reports: With Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch
expected back in the lineup, the Ravens Le'Ron McClain and Willis Mcgahee will find the going much harder this weekend.

4for4 reports: Word from South Philly is RB Brian Westbrook (knee,
did not practice Thursday), WR Kevin Curtis (calf, took reps
Thursday), WR Greg Lewis (foot) and TE L.J. Smith (shoulder, took
reps Thursday) should all be ready for the Giants.

Carroll County Times: Ravens Tight end Todd Heap (back, flu)
didn't practice Wednesday, but said he'll be ready for Saturday's
game. "I'm OK," he said. "I'm good to go."

4for4 reports: Baltimore TE Todd Heap (back) has yet to take hard
team reps this week. Still, Heap has said he'll play.

North County Times: Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson spared
reporters the suspense of waiting for Friday injury's report to
reveal his injury status. He said on Wednesday that he' s doubtful
to play in Sunday's AFC divisional round playoff at Pittsburgh,
which, in NFL-speak, means there's a 75 percent chance he won't
play against the Steelers.

4for4 reports: Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson (groin) has yet to
practice this week and he's a very iffy game time call. Even if LT
somehow manages to dress out, he's not someone to count on.

Carroll County Times: Ravens Defensive tackle Justin Bannan
(foot), linebacker Jarret Johnson (calf), Rolle (hamstring), and
kicker Matt Stover (sprained right ankle) were limited in
practice.

4for4 reports: Ravens K Matt Stover (right ankle) only did limited
work Wednesday and Thursday. They still expect him to kick.

Carroll County Times: Ravens WR Derrick Mason (dislocated left
shoulder) and free safety Ed Reed (knee) were held out of
practice. Mason is resigned to the fact that his shoulder will
hurt until the season is over when he might contemplate having
surgery to repair the damage. "This has been an injury that is
going to continue to hinder me in some ways, meaning that it's
always going to hurt until we're done playing in February," he
said. "I'll deal with that then. For this team, you're not
thinking about next year. You're thinking about the next play. I'd
better be able to put the pain aside for five minutes and finish
out the game. "Hopefully, I won't have to have surgery. I think
I'm truly blessed that it hasn't gotten any worse than it has.
It's not the shoulder now, it's more so the muscles. Actually, the
shoulder is fine. I'm not having any trouble with the shoulder."

4for4 reports: Ravens WR Derrick Mason (shoulder) did not practice
Wednesday, but did some things at practice Thursday. He's expected
to once again start despite his dislocated shoulder.

ESPN: Brett Favre has eased comfortably into his offseason routine
in Mississippi and will make no decision about whether to play
another NFL season for several weeks.

4for4 reports: The Ravens and Titans use the same formula - run
the ball, control the clock, avoid turnovers, play strong defense
and score via a short field. Ironically, both defenses have to
much strength around the box to make that game plan a reality. In
turn, one or both of these teams could be forced to pass +60% of
the time. That should favor the Titans, as their QB owns a
significant edge when it comes to big-game experience. Kerry Collins has played in two Super Bowls and he's still capable of
making plays when called on. And that's taking nothing away from
Joe Flacco, a rookie who's had a special year. However, in a
defensive slugfest, Flacco's lack of experience might be the only
thing that separates these two like-minded teams.

Minneapolis Star Tribune: Vikings WR Sidney Rice said the right
knee injury he suffered in Week 2 "crushed" his season. Rice
finished with only 15 catches for 141 yards and four touchdowns in
13 games after catching 31 passes for 396 yards and four TDs as a
rookie. But Rice never became a big part of the offense. "I think
I was able to help the team in some ways," he said. "I caught
maybe half the passes as I caught last year. The same amount of
TDs, but it slowed me down a lot." Rice said he doesn't believe he
will need surgery to clean up his knee this offseason, but he will
have it examined again to make sure. "The main thing for me this
year was my knee," he said. "I have to work on getting it healthy.
I want to come into Mankato [training camp] with no injuries."

Washington Post: Rookie Devin Thomas has not endeared himself to
coaches and teammates with his attitude and work ethic. With a
swagger that was not backed up by his play, he did not do enough
to get himself physically and mentally ready to play, and many in
the organization wonder if he ever will. He could be surly, he
enjoyed the nightlife and he never made any real strides toward
becoming a regular part of the offense. He continually ran poor
routes - often three yards or more too deep or too shallow - which
is a massive difference in an intricate precision system. He
didn't do nearly enough to earn the confidence of the
quarterbacks. He was drafted to be the bigger, deep threat to
complement Moss on the opposite side, replacing Brandon Lloyd, and
ended up being similar to Lloyd in far too many ways. Thomas has
already talked about the need to get away from football for a
while, which, for as little as he played, is alarming. He needs to
work his tail off all offseason to be ready to help this team.

ESPN: The Saints have confirmed that RB Reggie Bush had surgery on
his left knee, and will require months of rehabilitation. However,
Bush is expected to be ready for minicamp in June. Saints GM
Mickey Loomis said Bush had a microfracture procedure performed on
his left knee after he was placed on injured reserve in mid-
December. Saints HC Payton had indicated last week that Bush
underwent an arthroscopic procedure performed by Dr. James Andrews
in Birmingham, Ala. Loomis said the surgery was not a "major"
procedure, according to the report. "I wouldn't want to call it
minor, because he's got a pretty significant period of rehab
time," Loomis told the Times-Picayune. "But at the end of it, he
shouldn't have any issues."

New York Daily News: If Brandon Jacobs was really "limited" at
practice, it wasn't by his choice. The Giants' big RB said a few
minutes ago that he feels as good as he has since way back in Week
3 and that the sprained PCL in his left knee is no longer an
issue. In fact, he felt so good that he's apparently been a ball
of energy all day long - so much so that Tom Coughlin had to do
his best to rein him in. "All day long he's been saying, 'Brandon,
you've got to remember the game is on Sunday,'" Jacobs said. "I'm
wired. You've got to understand, I haven't played the last two
weeks and I feel like my production's been down when I have
played." It looks like Jacobs will be healthy enough to make a
difference when the Giants face the Eagles on Sunday. "I can go
out and run full speed. I can make all the cuts. I feel real
good," Jacobs said. "I can't wait for game day."

San Diego Union Tribune: Chargers RB Darren Sproles, who recently
said he wants to remain in SD, declined to talk about the future.
Chargers GM A.J. Smith said he would love for Sproles, taken in
the 4th round in '05, to remain with the team. Other than to say
he had "not started thinking of the franchise" tag in regards to
Sproles, Smith would not speculate on what will happen with
Sproles. But it is known the Chargers view him remaining in the
role he currently occupies, if expanded some. Much will depend on
what the team decides to do with the 29-year-old Tomlinson, who
has 3 years remaining on his contract but could be traded in the
offseason while he still has a relatively high value. One
influential agent watching the situation develop predicted Sproles
will find at least a handful of suitors willing to make him their
featured back this spring. "I don't think the Chargers can keep
him unless they decide to make him the guy," the agent said. "He's
going to be paid like the guy."

Newark Star Ledger: Eagles HC Reid said that TE L.J. Smith, who
was inactive last week vs. the Vikings with a shoulder injury,
will be worked back in as the No. 2 tight end.

ESPN: Eagles RB Brian Westbrook did not practice Wednesday - and
might be limited for the rest of the week. Westbrook, who is
nursing a badly sprained right ankle and swollen left knee, told
ESPN's Sal Paolantonio on Wednesday that he probably won't
practice much this week. He will instead prepare for the Eagles'
divisional-round playoff game against the reigning Super Bowl
champion Giants with an intensive regimen of weightlifting,
stretching and running in a pool. "The good thing is that I didn't
tweak anything against the Vikings," Westbrook said. "I took a
pounding on the turf but I didn't re-injure anything so I'm not
starting from in a hole this week." Westbrook said he will start
against the Giants on Sunday, but only after taking a round of
anti-inflammatory medication on Saturday night and Sunday morning
to get the pain and swelling to a tolerable level.

Newark Star Ledger: Eagles practice is only open to cameras for
the first 10 minutes today, but head coach Andy Reid said at his
morning press conference that the following players won't practice
today: RB Brian Westbrook (knee swelling), RT Jon Runyan (knee
sprain) and FB Dan Klecko (shoulder contusion). DE Victor
Abiamari, who met with a foot specialist Monday, is practicing,
Reid said.

San Diego Union Tribune: With Chargers RB Tomlinson sidelined by
a strained groin, Sproles will be the guy Sunday. However, noting
that Sproles was exhausted Saturday night, Turner has said Michael Bennett will have a larger role this week than his four carries
against the Colts.

Arizona Republic: It's a good thing the Cardinals coaching staff
threw a few bones to Edgerrin James after he was benched in favor
of rookie Tim Hightower, because the veteran RB revealed hat he
would have quit on the team and walked away. It almost got to that
point, too, as James didn't play in 3 games and in 4 others, had
only 7 total carries. Until responding with 173 yards his past 2
games, including a 73-yard effort to beat the Falcons in last
Saturday's playoff game, James has spent much of the season on the
sideline. James' return to the Cardinals' offense has given the
team new hope, especially this week heading into their NFC
divisional playoff game against the Panthers. "We all feel great
for Edge," QB Kurt Warner said. "He's been a great teammate and a
great leader on this team. I know he went through some frustration
and disappointment earlier in the year, but couldn't be more
excited, not only for what he's doing for us, but for him to get
back out there and have some success himself." Asked whether being
more of a contributor down the stretch could make him think twice
about his future with the Cardinals, James paused to reflect, but
wouldn't bite.

Carroll County Times: The Ravens didn't play rookie running back
Ray Rice against the Dolphins even though he was active after not
being healthy enough to play due to a shin contusion the previous
three weeks. "We just didn't feel as the game was going on that we
wanted to put him in," Harbaugh said. "Not that we couldn't have.
He was ready to play, just the way the game went." Harbaugh said
he expects Rice to play against the Titans, though. "We sure do,"
he said. "Ray is getting healthier, and he looked good toward the
end of last week and we expect him to do well."

AP reports: Bills QB Trent Edwards has scheduled visits with two
doctors this week after complaining about soreness in his right
shoulder. The team said in a statement Tuesday morning that
Edwards has not lost any strength because of the soreness and,
after mentioning the discomfort, had a routine MRI on his throwing
shoulder during his year-end physical. The Bills released the
statement after a local radio station, WGR-AM, reported on its Web
site that Edwards had an injured right shoulder. The station also
reported the injury did not seem serious. An e-mail sent to
Edwards by The AP was not immediately returned. His agent, Ryan
Tollner, also was not immediately available.

ESPN: Chargers WR Vincent Jackson was arrested Tuesday on
suspicion of drunken driving. Jackson failed sobriety tests
shortly after 2 a.m. on state Route 52 in San Diego, said
California Highway Patrol Officer Ray Scheidnes. He said he didn't
know Jackson's blood alcohol level. Jackson was on probation for a
previous DUI arrest, Highway Patrol Officer Brad Baehr said. The
player was taken to the San Diego County jail and released.
Chargers GM A.J. Smith said he was aware of Jackson's "off-the-
field issue." "Obviously we're disappointed," Smith said. "We take
these issues very seriously. Moving forward, we will monitor the
situation and have no further comment."

Pittsburgh Tribune: Ben Roethlisberger returned to practice Monday
and said the concussion that knocked him out of the Steelers'
regular-season finale won't be an issue in Sunday's AFC divisional
playoff game against San Diego. Roethlisberger said passed an
ImPACT test, which the Steelers and other NFL teams use to gauge
where a player is physically and mentally after sustaining a
concussion, and declared himself good to go for Sunday's 4:45 p.m.
game at Heinz Field. "The next test I'm going to face is Sunday
against the Chargers," Roethlisberger said. "I plan on being out
there and being 100 percent and ready to go."

AP reports: A gun owned by Colts star Marvin Harrison was used in
an April shooting, but investigators still can't determine who
pulled the trigger, the city's chief prosecutor said Tuesday. Five
of the 6 bullet casings found at the North Philly shooting scene
came from Harrison's weapon, but investigators have conflicting
witness accounts of who fired it, Philly District Attorney Lynne
Abraham said. No charges have been filed in the April 28 shooting
and the investigation remains open. "It's not enough to say that a
gun fired a bullet," Abraham said. "I'm not prepared to say who
fired the gun." She added that she thinks she knows who the gunman
was, but doesn't have the evidence to prove it. The victim has
sued Harrison and law enforcement will be keeping tabs on that
proceeding to see if any new evidence emerges that could help the
criminal investigation, Abraham said. Harrison's attorney, Jerome
Brown, declined to comment Tuesday. The receiver's agent, Tom
Condon, said he hadn't talked to his client about the matter in
some time, but remained confident Harrison had done nothing wrong.

Minneapolis Star Tribune: Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson's future
will be a hot topic this offseason. He played well initially after
replacing Gus Frerotte late in the season, but his performance the
last two weeks raises more questions about what the team will do
at that position entering next season. Jackson declined to
speculate on his future after the game and Brad Childress was
noncommittal when asked about Jackson.

ESPN: The Patriots have decided to ensure that quarterback Matt Cassel won't be an unrestricted free agent, as scheduled in March.
Sources told ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen that the
Patriots will use a franchise tag on Cassel that will give the
team two options: trade him if all goes well with Tom Brady's
rehabilitation from a knee injury or keep him because all is not
well with Brady.

San Diego Tribune: Chargers RB Michael Bennett, who was active for
the first time Saturday after being acquired on waivers on Nov.
12, carried four times for 24 yards against the Indianapolis Colts
and likely will get more work in Pittsburgh. Darren Sproles looked
as if he had gone 15 rounds as he walked from Qualcomm Stadium on
Saturday after carrying 23 times for 105 yards and two touchdowns.
"We've got (Sproles) packed in ice back in the training room right
now. We'll let him out on Friday," Turner said with a laugh.
"Yeah, there's a concern. He was absolutely exhausted. We'll get
him a lot of rest this week.

San Diego Tribune: Chargers LB Brandon Siler (foot) is expected to
return this week. Kicker Nate Kaeding (groin) also is expected to
be fine.

ESPN: Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who
battled the effects of a concussion last week, returned to
practice on Monday and said he expects to play in Sunday's home
playoff game against the San Diego Chargers.

San Diego Tribune: Chargers LB Antwan Applewhite (lower back),
center Nick Hardwick (shoulder) and tight end Antonio Gates
(ankle) likely will be limited this week but are expected to play.

San Diego Tribune: While they're using phrases like "day to day"
and "we'll see," no one in the Chargers organization truly expects
Ladainian Tomlinson to play Sunday at Pittsburgh. But the Chargers
will not place Tomlinson on injured reserve, in the hope that he
still could play in the postseason. "He might be able to play in
another week if we were able to go on," coach Norv Turner said.
"Or maybe he could play in another week after that." The
likelihood, according to sources, is that Tomlinson's severely
strained groin will keep him out the rest of the postseason and
will require surgery. But Turner reported Sunday that the injury
"is not any worse" after Tomlinson played on it Saturday.

East Valley Tribune: For the Cardinals, linebacker/defensive end
Travis LaBoy, who has struggled with a lingering ankle problem,
was inactive. So were a couple of Cardinals whose stock dropped
this season: tight end Leonard Pope and cornerback Eric Green.
Also sitting out were offensive tackles Elliot Vallejo and Brandon
Keith, defensive tackle Alan Branch, receiver Early Doucet and
emergency quarterback Brian St. Pierre.

North County Times: Chargers K Nate Kaeding (groin), expects to be
fine.

North County Times: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was able to stiff-
arm the pain in his sprained ankle to catch eight passes for 87
yards - both were team highs. Gates was hurt in the final regular-
season game against the Broncos and didn't practice all week.
He'll be day-to-day leading into the divisional playoff game.

North County Times: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (ankle); will be
day-to-day.

North County Times: Ladainian Tomlinson carried the ball just 5
times for 25 yards and scored before leaving the game when
aggravating a groin injury in the 2nd quarter. "In pregame I just
got out there and was seeing how it was going to feel and what I
had to deal with during the game," he said. "The first run, it was
evident the burst - I just didn't have the burst. I really
couldn't put my foot in the ground and get through the holes like
I wanted to. "So I went as long as I could. It was evident after
that TD run that it was at that point I felt like I was making it
worse." So Tomlinson stepped aside, giving way to Darren Sproles
(105 yards, 2 scores) and Michael Bennett (24 yards). "It's a
decision you have to make because your pride gets in the way a lot
of time thinking you can do it," Tomlinson said. Tomlinson didn't
sound confident about playing next week. "I'm enjoying the ride,
but I'm worried about my health," he said. "Long term, I don't
have time to think about that. I'm not too concerned about that.
Short term, I'm very concerned. I don't know whats ahead of me in
the near future. It's going to be something we will have to wait
and see."

North County Times: Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson (groin);
likely questionable for the next weekend.

ESPN: The NFL regular season has been over for less than a week
but the speculation over Jets quarterback Brett Favre's future has
already begun. Favre said when he spoke to Jets general manager
Mike Tannenbaum on Monday, he told him "it may be time to look in
a different direction" at the quarterback, Peter King of SI.com
reported. King spoke to Favre on Friday about his plans. Favre and
the Jets finished the season by losing four of their last five.
The skid cost coach Eric Mangini his job. Favre and the Jets
finished the season by losing four of their last five. The skid
cost coach Eric Mangini his job. King said Tannenbaum asked Favre
to take his time in thinking about the future. "I'm going to do
like Mike [Tannenbaum] says - give it a few weeks and make a
decision,'' Favre told King.

San Diego Tribune: The Chargers' injury report is terse and
troubling. Ladainian Tomlinson's groin pull renders the RB
officially "questionable" for Saturday night's playoff bash with
the Colts, and LT's weekly practice log is a tale of whoa:
"Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: Did Not Participate" Same thing
with TE Antonio Gates and his high ankle sprain: DNP. DNP. DNP.
That's 2 Hall of Fame talents and 2 ominous outlooks, an eerie
reprise of the Chargers' health problems preceding last year's AFC
Championship Game, and a particularly worrisome position for a
team about to do battle with Peyton Manning. It's hard to win a
shootout when your best weapons are low on ammunition and harder
still to imagine the Chargers' 31st-ranked pass defense stopping
the NFL's quintessential QB. For all of the giddy enthusiasm
engendered by the Bolts' improbable run to the playoffs, harsh
reality has returned following a 4-week hiatus. The Chargers are
certainly capable of beating the Colts - and did so, short-handed,
in last season's divisional playoffs in Indy - but this year's
team is not last year's team and can't be so long as Shawne
Merriman is a spectator. When Tomlinson and Gates are both
"questionable," the Chargers, collectively, become "doubtful."

AP reports: The Dallas Cowboys' roster is loaded with expensive,
talented players who don't seem to get along. There are legitimate
questions about whether Tony Romo has the mettle to continue the
lineage of Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman. There are more
questions about whether Terrell Owens is part of the problem or
the solution. And Jones insists he's keeping a coaching staff
that's overseen two of the most stunning underachievements in
recent NFL history. How's that for a sales pitch to potential
buyers of the unsold seats and luxury suites to his new $1.1
billion stadium? In a swooning economy, no less. About the only
benefit of the Dallas Cowboys' offseason already being under way
is that Jones has more time to figure out his escape plan. Or, in
the parlance of his previous career, Jones must find a way to turn
this dry hole into a gusher or brace for yet another disappointing
finish in 2009.

NFL reports: Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson has a
detached tendon in his groin area that is so bad, doctors
recommended that he have surgery this week, a league source said
Saturday. Tomlinson's mood was especially down all week, according
to a team source, and this might help explain why he was so glum.
Tomlinson knows he is not well as these playoffs are getting ready
to kickoff. As much as Tomlinson is going to want to play Saturday
night, the Chargers might have no choice but to shut him down to
prevent him from doing further and more extensive damage to his
groin. Tomlinson could try to play because he wants to, and
because the specter of last season, when he didn't finish the AFC
Championship Game against New England due to a knee injury,
followed him throughout the off-season. But if he plays tonight,
which is looking more and more uncertain, it is expected to be
difficult for Tomlinson to be effective.

ESPN: Chargers running back Ladainian Tomlinson has a detached
tendon that connects one of his adductor (groin) muscles to his
pubic bone, according to team sources. Tomlinson has been listed
as a game-time decision against the Indianapolis Colts in Saturday
night's AFC wild-card playoff game with a groin strain, and
sources say he is going to attempt to play because physical
therapy has given him some relief. His playing status is expected
to be determined after he tests the injury during a pregame
warmup.

4for4 reports: The Indianapolis Colts are in decent shape
according to Coach Dungy. On offense, at the skill spots, even
backups RB Chad Simpson and WR Pierre Garcon (knee questionable)
should be able to dress if needed.

4for4 reports: Ravens backup RB Ray Rice (calf questionable)
should be able to play as needed. He took part in some drill
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Falcons WR Harry Douglas (head) was limited in practice Thursday.

4for4 reports: The Falcons list WR Harry Douglas and FB Ovie Mughelli as questionable but expect them to play. Atlanta only did
some light drills today.

St Louis Dispatch: Rams TEs Anthony Becht (elbow) and Joe Klopfenstein (knee) underwent surgery Tuesday. Becht had bone
chips removed from his elbow; Klopfenstein had some lose material
removed from his knee.

4for4 reports: Word is ARI TE Leonard Pope might need a knee
brace, but he should be able to dress out. Pope was limited at
practice Thursday, but took full reps Friday. Cardinals backup TE
Stephen Spach (ankle) is probable.

4for4 reports: They expect WR Mark Clayton (knee) to start in
Sunday's game against the Dolphins. Clayton did some things at
practice each day this week.

Washington Post: Two days after Redskins HC Zorn said he believed
his team would not undergo sweeping changes as the organization
tries to rebound from an uneven season, Zorn's boss - Vinny
Cerrato, the team's executive VP of football operations - agreed,
saying he did not believe a wholesale overhaul of the roster is
necessary. "We have a good foundation," Cerrato said yesterday
during an interview after his season-ending media availability at
Redskins Park. Cerrato said he thought Campbell, in his 2nd full
year as a starter, "made good strides," and he cited Zorn's work
with Campbell as one of the best aspects of Zorn's rookie season
as a HC. But when asked if he was comfortable with Campbell as the
QB of the future in Washington, he was noncommittal. "I think that
Jason will be back," he said during his press conference. "He's
the starting QB, you know? And I think what you do is you just go
year to year, and you have to evaluate everything." Later, asked
specifically whether the club would pursue a contract extension
with Campbell - who would become a restricted free agent after the
'09 season - Cerrato said, "Everything's got to be evaluated." He
reiterated that it was too early to answer such long-term
questions.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Willie Parker said he doesn't think he will
need surgery to repair the labrum that was torn Nov. 3 in
Washington - an injury that occurred when his shoulder popped out
of joint and caused the two-time Pro Bowl RB to miss one game.
Parker also said he no longer uses the protective shoulder harness
he wore for a few games because it restricts his ability to run,
even though he rushed for 115 yards the first time he wore it in
the Nov. 16 game against the Chargers.

4for4 reports: Minnesota Vikings WR Bernard Berrian (ankle
probable) took full reps Friday. He's on track to start as normal
against Philly.

Ravens WR Mark Clayton (knee) was limited at practices on
Thursday.

NFL reports: Other notable Ravens joining Mason and Stover as
being questionable for Sunday game's in Miami are DT Justin Bannan
(foot), G Chris Chester (back), WR Mark Clayton (knee), TE Todd Heap (back), LB Jarret Johnson (calf), S Ed Reed (thigh), RB Ray Rice (calf) and CB Samari Rolle (ankle, foot). All eight players
practiced Friday, albeit in a limited way. Baltimore's training
staff must be busy.

Pittsburgh Gazette: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, others rest...
Still feeling the effects of a mild concussion, Roethlisberger did
not practice for the 2nd consecutive. He did not talk to the
media, but the coaching staff indicated he would not have
practiced much because Byron Leftwich and Dennis Dixon need
repetitions going into the playoffs. "He'll be fine. If he's not,
we won't change," said OC Bruce Arians. "We're still going to run
what we run and be who we are. He wouldn't have gotten any of the
reps anyway." The bye week is an opportunity for some of the
younger players to get in some work. "Somebody is going to make a
play [and] do something unexpected. I use the example that Nate Washington caught his first pass in the AFC championship game,"
Arians said. "One of these young guys is going to have to do that
for us. They don't know who it is, and I don't know who it is. But
it's been good to get them this work." Hines Ward, James Harrison
and Willie Parker were also in sweats.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates (ankle) missed practice again Thursday.

4for4 reports: Treat Chargers TE Antonio Gates (ankle
questionable) as a game time call. Surprisingly, Gates did little
to show he could play this week at practice. If he can't go, TE
Brandon Manumaleuna will. Bottom line- while we think he's better
than 50-50 to play, its not a lock.

4for4 reports: Eagles WR Kevin Curtis (calf probable) is expected
to start as normal. He took full reps all week. Ditto for backup
WR Hank Baskett (knee probable). Baskett is expected to dress out
with Desean Jackson and Curtis getting the start.

4for4 reports: Eagles TE John L.J. Smith should be fine to play
this weekend. He was limited, but did work each day this week
including Friday. Regardless, he's not someone to count on at this
stage.

4for4 reports: Philadelphia Eagles RB Brian Westbrook (knee,
ankle) is listed as questionable but they expect him to start as
normal. B-West took part in some of the drills each day this week.

NFL reports: In contrast, the Dolphins only listed TE David Martin
(head, neck) and DE Randy Starks (ankle) as questionable. Both
players didn't practice Wednesday, but returned and were limited
Thursday and Friday.

4for4 reports: The Miami Dolphins TE David Martin (head, neck
questionable) did some things at practice both Thursday and
Friday. Word we have from Davie FL is he'll play.

4for4 reports: The Ravens TE Todd Heap (back) was resting today
and is listed as questionable, but they should be able to work out
his sore back by game time and have him start. Still, we never
like it when a starting player is added to the injury report on a
Friday.

4for4 reports: San Diego Chargers RB Ladainian Tomlinson (groin
questionable) was held back all week at practice. Still, they
expect him to start. How much his groin will limit him is unclear
and that's why Darren Sproles is forecasted for 25-30 rushing
yards this weeekend. Bottom line - treat LT as a game time call to
be safe.

St Louis Dispatch: Rams WR Dane Looker apparently will try to rest
and then strengthen his knee to avoid surgery for ligament damage.

4for4 reports: Ravens K Matt Stover (right ankle questionable) was
limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday. Friday he did not
practice. Still, he's expected to be fine for the game.

Ravens WR Derrick Mason (shoulder) was limited at practices on
Thursday.

NFL reports: One day after being limited by a shoulder injury,
Ravens WR Derrick Mason missed practice. Joining him on the
sideline was K Matt Stover, who has a right ankle injury. That's
on his kicking foot, by the way.

4for4 reports: Baltimore Ravens WR Derrick Mason has a cronic
shoulder problem and is listed as questionable. Mason has been
able to play with the dislocated left shoulder in the recent past,
so odds are good he'll be ready. However, it's hard to say how
many hits he'll be able to take. Mason was limited at practice
Thursday and sat out practice Friday.

Kansas City Star: Tony Gonzalez will soon make his annual
postseason trip to Hawaii to play in the Pro Bowl. Upon his
return, he should have a better idea about which direction the
Chiefs are headed. By then, the Chiefs will likely have a new GM
and a decision on whether HC Edwards will be retained. At that
point, Gonzalez will decide whether he will again ask for a trade.
"As far as I know, I'll be a Chief next year," Gonzalez said.
"Depending on what Clark (Hunt) wants to do, if he wants to blow
this whole thing up and bring in a new coaching staff and bring in
a new coordinator with that and bring in a new QB in the draft,
that all weighs into whether or not I want to be a Chief next
year. Gonzalez indicated he would play only one more season, at
least if he stays with the Chiefs. In that case, it might benefit
the Chiefs to at least listen to trade offers for Gonzalez, though
those offers might not be overwhelming given that Gonzalez is
nearing the end of his career

Newark Star Ledger: As the Jets continue to compile a list and
schedule interviews for their vacant HC job, there are some in the
organization who might not mind having to find a new QB as well.
Nobody associated with the Jets is pressing Brett Favre to make a
decision on his future, in part because they don't want to be seen
as the team that ran a future Hall of Fame quarterback out of
town. But there are those, including owner Woody Johnson and GM
Tannenbaum, who privately indicated they might be okay with any
decision Favre makes - despite Johnson's and Tannenbaum's public
pleas for Favre to return next season. "I think they had to say
that in case (Favre) wants to come back," said a person with
knowledge of the team's thinking who requested anonymity because
he's not authorized to speak for the organization. "If Favre says
he's not coming back, I don't know if that would be a great
disappointment… I think Woody and Mike are upset (with Favre's
late-season play) to a point, especially Woody. But I think they
have to handle the situation with care. They're not going to say
publicly they don't want Favre back, but privately I'm not so
sure."

New York Newsday: If Brett Favre wants to play another year with
the Jets, he'll have to work a lot harder to win over his
teammates than he did this season. "There was a lot of resentment
in the room about him," a Jets player told Newsday yesterday. He
requested anonymity because team owner Woody Johnson has stated
publicly that Favre is welcome to return next season if he wants
to. (Favre reportedly will take until the end of February to
decide about returning.) The 39-year-old QB is not as welcome with
his teammates, according to this veteran. After the Jets traded
for Favre Aug. 6, the sure Hall of Famer made no effort to
ingratiate himself with the already assembled team, the veteran
said. He said Favre spent most of his down time at the practice
facility in an office specially designated for him near the
equipment room, not with teammates in the locker room, even after
the media departed. "He never socialized with us, never went to
dinner with anyone," the player said. Asked to describe Favre in a
word, he said: "Distant."