Week 5 Players in the News

*** Saturday Update *** QB Michael Vick (ATL) is now being called a game-time decision by HC Jim Mora. Members of the medical and coaching staffs will put Vick through drills Sunday morning to test his readiness. If Vick feels able, he most likely would start, Mora said. He's been downgraded to questionable which is a bad sign for players this late in the week. We'll have the official word for you Sunday morning but it's looking right now like it'll be Matt Schaub starting.

*** Saturday Update *** QB Tim Rattay (SF) has been the subject of trade rumors, but HC Mike Nolan tried to squash that talk on Friday by saying, “As far as any of that talk, it's just talk. There's absolutely nothing to it.”

Running Back

*** Saturday Update *** RB Najeh Davenport (GB) has been named the team’s starting RB in week five. He will fill in for the injured Ahman Green.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) will not start in week five, but the team hopes he will be healed and ready to play in week seven (the team has a bye in week six).

*** Saturday Update *** RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) is expected to be the team’s #2 RB in week five behind start Willie Parker.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Duce Staley (PIT) might be inactive in week five. The backup RB job will likely go to Jerome Bettis, and Verron Haynes is able to play special teams. That leaves Staley without a defined role.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Cadillac Williams (TB) remains a game-time decision, but the Buccaneers are saying it is a little more likely that he may play in week five. “He's getting better,” HC Jon Gruden said. “He did things with the trainer much better today than he did the previous two days, so I'm encouraged by his progress.” “Last week, I didn't feel my chances of playing were too good, but I wound up playing anyway,” Williams said. “It will all come down to what [trainer] Todd [Toriscelli] and coach Gruden decide, but I definitely want to play. I mean, I'm feeling pretty good today. It's not too painful. It feels the best it's felt, so that's a plus.” We'll have official word for you well before game time tomorrow morning on our Sunday Updates.

Wide Receiver

*** Saturday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) is still questionable with a swollen hand but it improved a little Saturday. He'll still be a game time decision. He's known to be a tough guy but since it's a late game, we won't have official word on whether he'll start until it's too late for your lineup to be submitted so we'd advise caution.

*** Saturday Update *** WR Hines Ward (PIT) expects to start but will be a game time decision. He'll test out the hamstring Monday evening prior to the game to make sure he can go. So understand there's a little risk there. Ward is a tough guy and we believe him when he says he'll play.

Tight End

*** Saturday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) is still a game-time decision, but it looks like he probably will not play in week five.

Kicker

*** Saturday Update *** PK Doug Brien (CHI) is still a game-time decision. The Bears have signed rookie PK Robbie Gould, and both he and Brien are in Cleveland. If Brien can’t play, Gould will kick for the team.

Offensive Line

Defensive Line

Linebacker

Defensive Back

All the news

Quarterback

*** Thursday Update *** QB Josh McCown (ARI) might not automatically return to the bench when Kurt Warner is healthy again. HC Dennis Green says it is fine with him if there’s a QB controversy between the two signal callers. It seems that Green has no problem sticking with the hot hand.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Kurt Warner (ARI) will not play in week five due to his injured groin.

QB Kurt Warner (ARI) is expected to miss another week as he recovers from his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** QB Michael Vick (ATL) partially participated in Friday’s practice but is expected to play in week five. ``Yeah, it's getting better, and the only way I can tell that is when I go out there and try to do some things on it,'' he said.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Michael Vick (ATL) was still limited in Thursday’s practice, but he is still expected to start in week five despite his injured knee. "I am feeling a lot better," he said. "I am still a little sore, but it felt good to get out there today and run around, bounce around a little bit. I'm getting my flexibility back in my leg, and getting my range of motion."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Michael Vick (ATL) did not practice on Wednesday, but he is expected to start in week 5. It's possible he may wear a knee brace on his right knee. Obviously, a huge part of his game is his mobility so keep an eye on how he looks Thursday and Friday.

QB Michael Vick (ATL) is expected to start in week five after his MRI results showed that he merely has a mild right MCL sprain. "That ought to put that to rest," head coach Jim Mora told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Said Mora, "I'd expect there's a good chance he'll be ready to roll (for Sunday's game against the Patriots)." Don't be alarmed if Vick is limited in practice this week as Mora said he's undecided whether Vick will practice.

QB Kyle Boller (BAL) is out of his cast but will miss about two more weeks with his injured toe.

*** Friday Update *** QB Kelly Holcomb (BUF) has been the best backup QB in the league according to his former coach (and current NFL Network analyst) Butch Davis. He'll be a starter this week.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Kelly Holcomb (BUF) will in fact start for the team in week five. He replaces the ineffective J.P. Losman.

*** Thursday Update *** QB J.P. Losman (BUF) has in fact been benched in favor of Kelly Holcomb. Receivers Lee Evans and Eric Moulds confirmed this today. Said Moulds, "I think J.P. knows he's the future here and he knows the situation was the coach's decision," he said. "I talked to him yesterday about it. He's not happy about it, but feels that right now it's the coach's decision and he has to live with it." "I don't think it's a slap in the face," Evans added. "For right now, maybe they felt he needed to sit and learn a little more and pick it up when he gets the opportunity."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB J.P. Losman (BUF) just might not have a lock on the starting QB job. After endorsing Losman on Monday, HC Mike Mularkey declined to discuss the matter on Wednesday. This could mean Mularkey had a change of heart, or it could mean he feels like he answered the question earlier in the week. All things considered though, if you are relying upon Losman or Kelly Holcomb to salvage your season, we wish you the best of luck in your hockey league.

QB J.P. Losman (BUF) is still the starter according to coach Mike Mularkey: "J.P. is the starter, and I'm going with J.P. I think everybody understands that," Mularkey said. "Again, I was trying to get a change of pace."

*** Friday Update *** QB Jeff Garcia (DET) is healing but is still not ready to return from his broken leg. “Every day it gets better,” said Garcia. “Hopefully it'll get to the point where I feel I can push it out on the field and do some things, and hopefully that happens within the next couple weeks.” Garcia has done some throwing in practice this week but added that he was still "pretty sore. I'm testing my leg and just getting some throws in, making sure when I am ready to go that I'm not as rusty throwing the football as if I weren't doing anything for six, seven, eight weeks, whatever it takes."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Jeff Garcia (DET) is still out with his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** QB Daunte Culpepper (MIN) received a cortisone shot in his knee and is improving. Said coach Mike Tice, "He's feeling a lot better. [The doctors] looked at his knee. He's feeling really good today. His body language is excellent. We'll let [the injury] quiet down."

QB Daunte Culpepper (MIN) has been playing most of the 2005 season with sprained right MCL and bursitis in that same knee. “There's swelling, and it's painful, but I'm a warrior,” Culpepper said. “I'm going to push through this.”

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Tom Brady (NE) is on the injury report (as usual) with a right shoulder. He practiced (as usual) on Wednesday, and he will play (as usual) this Sunday.

*** Friday Update *** QB Chad Pennington (NYJ) will not return this season as he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his throwing shoulder. The team is optimistic that he will be physically ready for the 2006 season.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Vinny Testaverde (NYJ) says he is becoming more comfortable in the Jets offense. After Thursday’s practice, he remarked, “It was a good day. I’m not thinking as much, just going out and reacting.”

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Vinny Testaverde (NYJ) has been named the team’s starting QB. ``Vinny is probably better than half the starting quarterbacks in the NFL right now,'' center Kevin Mawae said. ``A lot of people want to look at his age and the fact that he hasn't been doing anything. But if you know Vinny, he hasn't been sitting on his La-Z-Boy this whole nine months. He's been working out, getting himself ready for a situation like this.''

QB Vinny Testaverde (NYJ) on Wednesday will most likely be named the team’s starting QB in week five.

*** Friday Update *** QB Donovan McNabb (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** QB Donovan McNabb (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Donovan McNabb (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to start as normal in week five despite his myriad of injuries.

*** Friday Update *** QB Tommy Maddox (PIT) injured his calf in Friday’s practice and is not expected to be available to play in week five. This means Ben Roethlisberger’s backup against the Chargers will be Charlie Batch.

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) might be without his top two WRs. Both Darrell Jackson and Bobby Engram are listed as doubtful for week five.

QB Tim Rattay (SF) has been benched as Alex Smith has been named the starting QB for week 5. "I feel that Alex gives us the best chance to win, and I believe he's ready," San Francisco coach Mike Nolan said. "Tim has handled everything very well, but at this time in the process, I believe it's time to get Alex in the game. … At 1-3, we didn't draft Alex to just sit him on the bench. At 1-3, I believe we need to begin to utilize him."

*** Wednesday Update *** QB Alex Smith (SF) has been named the team’s starting QB.

QB Alex Smith (SF) has been named the starting QB for week 5. "I feel that Alex gives us the best chance to win, and I believe he's ready," San Francisco coach Mike Nolan said. "Tim has handled everything very well, but at this time in the process, I believe it's time to get Alex in the game. … At 1-3, we didn't draft Alex to just sit him on the bench. At 1-3, I believe we need to begin to utilize him."

Running Back

*** Thursday Update *** RB James Jackson (ARI) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Harold Morrow (ARI) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday but is still expected to be available to play in week five despite his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** RB Alan Ricard (BAL) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Alan Ricard (BAL) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured leg.

*** Friday Update *** RB Stephen Davis (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Stephen Davis (CAR) missed practiced on Thursday but is expected to play fully in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Stephen Davis (CAR) rested his knee in Wednesday but is expected to start as normal in week five.

*** Friday Update *** RB Rod Smart (CAR) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Rod Smart (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** RB Thomas Jones (CHI) will remain as the team’s starting RB and is slated to receive the majority of carries. "We don't plan on splitting carries," said HC Lovie Smith. "Thomas Jones is our starter and he'll get the bulk of the plays. We would just like to give him a little bit of relief and get Cedric [Benson] in there some.”

*** Friday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to start in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Rudi Johnson (CIN) missed Wednesday's practice with a sore knee but is listed as probable for this week's game.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Cory Schlesinger (DET) got a bit of work in on Wednesday and Thursday, but he is still at least a week away from returning from his broken leg.

RB Cory Schlesinger (DET) is closer to returning from his broken leg, but he is still questionable for week five.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Najeh Davenport (GB) has been named the team’s starting RB in week five. He will fill in for the injured Ahman Green.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) will not start in week five, but the team hopes he will be healed and ready to play in week seven (the team has a bye in week six).

*** Friday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) did not practice on Friday but did some rehab work in the pool. It is looking like Green might sit against the Saints, but he will be a game-time decision.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and looks like a game time decision at best for week five with his strained knee and quadriceps. Najeh Davenport will start if Green can not play.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Ahman Green (GB) missed practice Wednesday and is listed as questionable. If he can't go, expect Najeh Davenport to see lots of work.

RB Ahman Green (GB) has what the team is calling a sprained right knee. He'll be evaluated further this week.

*** Thursday Update *** RB James Mungro (IND) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** RB Dominic Rhodes (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Dominic Rhodes (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Dominic Rhodes (IND) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Derrick Wimbush (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

RB Priest Holmes (KC) might be losing fewer carries to Larry Johnson. Said offensive coordinator Al Saunders, "When you're caught up in the week-to-week preparation, sometimes you do things a little bit differently than you'd do if you're able to sit back and look at everything in depth. We're able to do that this week. We've got four regular-season games against very good defensive teams to evaluate where we are right now and what direction we're going to go. It could very well be a game-by-game decision."

RB Larry Johnson (KC) could be losing more carries to Priest Holmes. Offensive coordinator Al Saunders said that they might look at how the carries are distributed differently. Holmes has outplayed Johnson of late.

*** Friday Update *** RB Aaron Stecker (NO) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** RB Curtis Martin (NYJ) practiced on Friday for the first time this week and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Curtis Martin (NYJ) again rested his injured knee and did not practice on Thursday. However, he fully expects to start as normal in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Curtis Martin (NYJ) rested his injured knee on Wednesday, but he is expected to start as normal in week five.

*** Saturday Update *** RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) is expected to be the team’s #2 RB in week five behind start Willie Parker.

*** Friday Update *** RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) practiced all week and says he is ready to play. “I'm healthy, I'm fine, my body feels like it did before training camp,” Bettis said. “I feel really good and ready to go.” That said the team has still not determined how many touches he will have in week five but expect for him to see the short yardage and goal line work.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play in week five.

RB Jerome Bettis (PIT) says he is “ready to go” in week five, but the team hasn’t said what his role will be. The expectation is that Bettis will be the team’s short yardage and goal line back.

RB Willie Parker (PIT) will start for the team in week five (as expected) despite the return to health of Duce Staley and Jerome Bettis.

*** Friday Update *** RB Duce Staley (PIT) practiced all week and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Duce Staley (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Duce Staley (PIT) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Darren Sproles (SD) is still limited by his injured ankle and remains iffy to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** RB Cadillac Williams (TB) did not practice again on Friday. He says he is feeling better, but it looks like Williams will be a game-time decision in week five. He's wearing a walking boot and has acknowledged it's a "long season" and he'll have to pace himself. Michael Pittman would start if Williams can't go.

*** Thursday Update *** RB Cadillac Williams (TB) did not practice on Thursday due to his injured foot and hamstring. He is still questionable to play but admitted on Thursday that it might be a “good idea” for him to sit in week five. Coach Jon Gruden had this to say: “If the guy’s able to play, he’ll play,” said Gruden. “We’ve got to win games. I’ve got a lot of concern with this game. But, Jiminy Christmas, there aren’t a lot of guys in our locker room who feel good right now. That’s just the way it is. The guy has a strained arch and with that has come maybe some slight tightness in his hamstring. Every player in football has got to deal with it – young, old, we’ve got a number of guys who are in similar straits as this guy." Gruden said the decision would come down to what the medical folks say said, “We’re not going to fool around with it. If he’s okay to play, if he’s cleared by our doctors and trainers, he’ll play. If he isn’t, he won’t. This isn’t the preseason. These are regular season games and we have got to win, we have to find ways to win and we need our best players to win games.”

*** Wednesday Update *** RB Cadillac Williams (TB) did not practice on Wednesday. “The thing is he hasn't really been able to test his hamstring because of the foot and he hasn't been able to test out the foot because of the hamstring, if you know what I mean,” HC Jon Gruden. “It's not a serious injury. We are just concerned with the foot strain. He was in a boot the last two days. If you ask him he's great, but we have him listed as questionable.” Guess that clears everything up.

RB Cadillac Williams (TB) is questionable for the week five game against the Jets due to a bad hamstring and a nagging (but improving) sore arch. Since Michael Pittman filled in so well in week four, the team does not need to rush Williams back before he is healthy. Williams says he expects to be ready for Sunday: "I'm not worried, but they're definitely kind of snowballing on me," he said. "I know I'm going to get healthy, and I'll be ready to go Sunday." Coach Jon Gruden was a little more cautious:"We're going to do what we deem to be best for him and for this season," Gruden said. The team believes Williams' hamstring injury might be related to him favoring his injured arch.

RB Travis Henry (TEN) will miss three more weeks due to suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

*** Friday Update *** RB Ladell Betts (WAS) suffered a groin injury and did not practice on Friday. Unless the injury worsens, he is expected to play in week five.

Wide Receiver

*** Friday Update *** WR Reggie Swinton (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Reggie Swinton (ARI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured hamstring.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Dez White (ATL) missed last week with his hamstring injury but looks to be good to go now. He's not listed on the injury report.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Roscoe Parrish (BUF) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured wrist.

WR Mark Bradley (CHI) has been moved into the starting lineup replacing Justin Gage.

*** Friday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) did not practice on Friday and looks like a game-time decision for week five. Houshmandzadeh is optimistic he can play with his swollen right hand, but it's tough to miss an entire week of practice. The team is waiting for the swelling to go down in his hand.

*** Thursday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hand.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) did not practice on Wednesday and is iffy to play in week five due to an injured hand.

WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (CIN) is questionable for week 5 with a bruised hand according to head coach Marvin Lewis. Houshmandzadeh says he'll play so watch how practice goes this week.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Josh Cribbs (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** WR Charlie Adams (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Charlie Adams (DEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Nate Jackson (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Nate Jackson (DEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

WR Charles Rogers (DET) will be suspended for four weeks after violating the league’s substance abuse policy according to ESPN. It's possible an appeal might delay the suspension so wait to see how this plays out. We think Mike Williams will be the primary guy to benefit although Kevin Johnson may see more work as well.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Terrence Murphy (GB) will miss the remainder of the season after being placed on the injured reserve list.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terrence Murphy (GB) will not play in week five due to his injured neck.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Cortez Hankton (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

WR Nate Burleson (MIN) is expected to be back in week 6 according to coach Mike Tice.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Bethel Johnson (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** WR Az-zahir Hakim (NO) practiced on Friday but looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Az-zahir Hakim (NO) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Az-zahir Hakim (NO) did not practice on Wednesday and is iffy to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) was limited in Friday’s practice and will be a game-time decision again for week five. He was only 60% last Sunday when he worked out before the game. He's done a little more this week than he did last week but not a lot more. It'll be another game time decision.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) was limited in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable to play in week five with his injured hamstring. It looks like he’ll be a game time decision again this weekend.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Joe Horn (NO) practiced on Wednesday but is still questionable for week five. However, he is improving as he did not practice last Wednesday.

WR Joe Horn (NO) will be questionable on the injury report for week 5 with his hamstring. He tried to warm up in the pregame last Sunday but was reportedly only about 60%.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured back.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Justin McCareins (NYJ) did not practice on Wednesday but is expected to play in week five despite his injured back.

*** Friday Update *** WR Terrell Owens (PHI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Terrell Owens (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Terrell Owens (PHI) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured groin and shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Sean Morey (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Hines Ward (PIT) practiced on Friday but not fully. He's shown the coaches enough and reiterated that he expects to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Hines Ward (PIT) did not practice on Thursday due to his injured hamstring, but he fully expects to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Hines Ward (PIT) did not practice on Wednesday in order to rest his hamstring. He is listed as questionable for week five, but he will almost certainly play.

*** Friday Update *** WR Bobby Engram (SEA) did not practice on Friday. He did not even make the trip to St. Louis and will not play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Bobby Engram (SEA) did not practice again on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured ribs.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Bobby Engram (SEA) did not practice on Wednesday and is listed as doubtful for week five with two cracked ribs.

WR Bobby Engram (SEA) is very questionable to play in week five with two broken ribs. Jerheme Urban has been re-signed by the team which is a sign that the Seahawks do not expect Engram to be ready.

*** Friday Update *** WR Darrell Jackson (SEA) will not play in week five. In worse news, according to the News Tribune, Jackson has been advised to undergo knee surgery after Dr. John Uribe detected a torn lateral meniscus in addition to the previously diagnosed bone bruise. If surgery is performed, Jackson could miss a month of action.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Darrell Jackson (SEA) did not practice again on Thursday and according to HC Mike Holmgren “is not going to play” in week five due to his injured knee. The fear is that the injury will linger all season unless Jackson gets to rest right now.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Darrell Jackson (SEA) did not practice on Wednesday and is listed as doubtful for week five with a bone bruise in his right knee.

WR Darrell Jackson (SEA) is still battling a sore knee that became worse as the game wore on Sunday. With Bobby Engram playing with broken ribs and Jackson's knee getting worse, the Seattle Times reports coach Mike Holmgren kept having to ask wide-receivers coach Nolan Cromwell who could play at that given time in the game. Jackson expects to play but watch practice this week.

WR Jerheme Urban (SEA) was re-signed by the Seahawks. He'd been released September 13.

WR Jerheme Urban (SEA) was resigned by the Seahawks. He'd been released September 13.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Peter Warrick (SEA) practiced on Wednesday and with Darrell Jackson and Bobby Engram doubtful is expected to start in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Arnaz Battle (SF) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Arnaz Battle (SF) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Arnaz Battle (SF) did not practice on Wednesday and is iffy to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) missed practice again and according to ESPN's John Clayton, is out for this weekend's game.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) missed practice again on Thursday and is expected to sit again in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Isaac Bruce (STL) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play in week five due to his turf toe.

WR Isaac Bruce (STL) is still suffering from turf toe and is questionable to play in week five. Kevin Curtis and Shaun McDonald have shown they are capable fill-ins for Bruce, so he will not be rushed back until he is healthy. His toe was so bad Sunday that he did not even attempt to test it out in the pregame. Even though Bruce is calling his status "day to day", the St. Louis Post Dispatch says Bruce will miss "at least a couple of more games". Coach Mike Martz said Bruce and injured TE Brandon Manumaluena won't play until they're totally healthy: “Brandon (Manumaleuna) is very close. I don’t know that he’ll play this week or not. If there is any risk at all, he won’t play. Same with Isaac (Bruce). We’ll move on and wait until they are completely ready to go.”

*** Thursday Update *** WR Kevin Curtis (STL) revealed that he was suffering from blurred vision in Sunday's game resulting from a migraine headache. He says he's good to go for this week.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Torry Holt (STL) saw a little extra coverage in week four with Isaac Bruce on the sidelines. “I would line up and I'd have a guy over top of me, a guy behind me, a guy on the inside,” Holt said. “One time I lined up and there were three guys. They kind of had me triangled in. It threw me off guard. It kind of made me laugh. I said, ‘Wow, they must kind of respect me out here a little bit.’” All of that attention on Holt made things a bit easier for Shaun McDonald and Kevin Curtis.

*** Friday Update *** WR Michael Clayton (TB) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Michael Clayton (TB) is listed as probable with a second-degree dislocation of his left shoulder. Clayton says the injury occurred during training camp and was aggravated two weeks ago against the Packers and again last week versus the Lions. He is expected to play through the injury via treatment during the week and the use of pain killers before the game. Said coach Jon Gruden: “He’s been limited before. It’s not like he wasn’t limited the whole offseason and limited at times during camp while he was working himself back in. We’ve got plenty of alternatives that we’re working on, and Ike Hilliard will be a part of it, certainly. Edell Shepherd’s a young guy who will get a chance, and we’ll see what happens. But we expect Clayton to play and if he doesn’t then we’ll have guys ready who are.”

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Michael Clayton (TB) practiced on Wednesday and is expected to play as normal in week five.

*** Friday Update *** WR Drew Bennett (TEN) partially participated in practice on Friday. For what it's worth, coach Jeff Fisher said, "He is ok, we just kind of shut him down this week to let him recover." If you've played this game long enough, you know to take coach Fisher with a large grain of salt. Bennett is battling a sore knee, heel and hip and looks to be clearly less than 100% to us.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Drew Bennett (TEN) missed practice Thursday but coach Jeff Fisher indicated he trusted Bennett to be able to play well without a full week of practice.

*** Wednesday Update *** WR Drew Bennett (TEN) did not practice on Wednesday and is listed as questionable for week five with injuries to his foot and knee.

*** Friday Update *** WR Courtney Roby (TEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** WR Courtney Roby (TEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured toe.

Tight End

*** Friday Update *** TE Teyo Johnson (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Teyo Johnson (ARI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Todd Heap (BAL) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** TE Tim Euhus (BUF) practiced on Friday but is at best a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Tim Euhus (BUF) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Desmond Clark (CHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Stephen Alexander (DEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Saturday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) is still a game-time decision, but it looks like he probably will not play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) partially practiced on Friday but will be a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Bubba Franks (GB) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and looks like a game time decision for week five.

*** Friday Update *** TE Matt Murphy (HOU) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Matt Murphy (HOU) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Ben Utecht (IND) did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured chest.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Ben Utecht (IND) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) should be more of a receiver and less of a blocker in week six. The team expects T Willie Roaf to return to action, and that will ease the blocking burden on Gonzalez.

TE Tony Gonzalez (KC) will hopefully be more involved in the passing game when tackle Willie Roaf returns after the bye week. ``Last week we did a lot of maximum protection,'' coach Dick Vermeil said Tuesday. ``Tony was in pass protection a lot." Gonzalez said, ``I didn't go downfield at all.'' Vermeil seems intent on getting Gonzalez the ball: ``Regardless of what excuse we want to make, we have to do a better job of getting the ball to Tony Gonzalez's hands,'' Vermeil said Tuesday. ``He set an all-time record in the history of the National Football League with 102 catches last year and I'm certainly not going to panic because he's not at that pace right now.''

*** Friday Update *** TE Shad Meier (NO) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Ryan Krause (SD) practiced on Thursday but remains iffy to play in week five due to his injured foot.

TE Cameron Cleeland (STL) is being brought back by the Rams in the wake of Roland Williams' knee injury. Coach Mike Martz sounded glad to have him back: “Cam’s a very good player. Wasn’t sure he wanted to keep playing or not. There was a terrific reaction by Cam. I’d love to have him back on this team. I know what he can do. He can make a lot of plays for us.”

*** Friday Update *** TE Brandon Manumaleuna (STL) was limited in Friday’s practice and is questionable to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Brandon Manumaleuna (STL) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Brandon Manumaleuna (STL) did not practice on Wednesday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured knee.

TE Brandon Manumaleuna (STL) will try to practice Wednesday. Sunday he said, "The knee's still giving out a little bit." Coach Mike Martz said he won't play until he's fully healthy: “Brandon (Manumaleuna) is very close. I don’t know that he’ll play this week or not. If there is any risk at all, he won’t play. Same with Isaac (Bruce). We’ll move on and wait until they are completely ready to go.”

TE Roland Williams (STL) will miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury. Cam Cleeland is expected to return to the team and take Williams’ roster spot.

*** Friday Update *** TE Erron Kinney (TEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Erron Kinney (TEN) did not practice on Wednesday and is iffy for week five with an injured chest.

*** Friday Update *** TE Ben Troupe (TEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** TE Ben Troupe (TEN) practiced on Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured elbow.

*** Wednesday Update *** TE Ben Troupe (TEN) practiced on Wednesday despite an injured elbow. Barring a setback, he is expected to play in week five.

Kicker

*** Friday Update *** PK Doug Brien (CHI) was downgraded to questionable which is always a bad sign to be moving down this late in the week. He did not practice on Friday and will be a game-time decision for week five. Rookies Robbie Gould and Tyler Jones may be signed to the 53 man roster on Saturday. The Bears will also work out additional kickers and weigh their options.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Doug Brien (CHI) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday due to his injured back. He is listed as probable but could be a game time decision in week five.

*** Friday Update *** PK Jason Hanson (DET) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Jason Hanson (DET) kicked some FGs during Thursday’s practice and is expected to play in week five despite his injured hamstring.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK Jason Hanson (DET) was limited in Wednesday’s practice, but the team expects him to be ready to kick in week five.

PK David Akers (PHI) will miss at least three more weeks with his injured hamstring. It’s starting to look like that time frame is optimistic at best as according to team sources, the injury is “more significant than originally thought”.

PK Todd France (PHI) will continue as the team’s kicker for at least four more weeks with David Akers still ailing with the bad hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** PK John Hall (WAS) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** PK John Hall (WAS) did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured quadriceps.

*** Wednesday Update *** PK John Hall (WAS) missed practice again Wednesday and it's looking like it'll be Nick Novack again this week. Novak kicked the game winner last Sunday so the team has plenty of confidence in him.

*** Thursday Update *** PK Nick Novak (WAS) is expected to kick for the team in week five in place of the injured John Hall.

Offensive Line

*** Friday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) T Ian Allen did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

G Adam Haayer practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) G Ian Allen did not practice on Thursday but is still expected to play in week five despite back spasms.

T Adam Haayer did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Arizona Cardinals (ARI) T Oliver Ross will not play in week five due to his injured hand.

*** Friday Update *** OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) T Mike Williams partially participated in Friday’s practice and will be a game-time decision in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Buffalo Bills (BUF) T Mike Williams did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** OL Cincinnati Bengals (CIN) T Willie Anderson practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

C Rich Braham did not practice on Friday but is still expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Cincinnati Bengals (CIN) T Willie Anderson practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

C Rich Braham did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Detroit Lions (DET) C Don Muhlbach will not play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) T Chad Clifton practiced on Friday and might be able to play in week five.

T Chris White practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) T Chad Clifton did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and looks like a game time decision for week five with his injured ankle.

C Mike Flanagan underwent abdominal surgery and will miss at least three weeks.

T Mark Tauscher practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Green Bay Packers (GB) C Mike Flanagan will not play in week five due to a hernia.

*** Friday Update *** OL Jacksonville Jaguars (JAX) G Chris Naeole practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

T Ephraim Salaam practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

T Maurice Williams practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Jacksonville Jaguars (JAX) G Chris Naeole practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

T Ephraim Salaam practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

T Maurice Williams practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** OL Kansas City Chiefs (KC) T Kevin Sampson suffered a seizure on Thursday. He was hospitalized but is improving. “He's better, he's coherent,” HC Vermeil said. “They're not allowing him to speak to anybody. We have no other information, but that seems to be good news.” Sampson’ agent Joe Linta says he expects Sampson to be released in the next day or two. “I’m not a doctor,” said Linta, “but at this point, I see no reason he won’t be back in Kansas City on Monday, October 10th and practicing again next week.”

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Kansas City Chiefs (KC) T Willie Roaf expects to be ready to return to the starting lineup after the team’s bye. Roaf’s return in week six should help out the entire Chiefs offense.

*** Thursday Update *** OL New England Patriots (NE) T Brandon Gorin did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured thigh.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL New England Patriots (NE) T Matt Light will not play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** OL New Orleans Saints (NO) G Kendyl Jacox practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

G Jermane Mayberry practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL New Orleans Saints (NO) G Kendyl Jacox did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

G Jermane Mayberry practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** OL New York Jets (NYJ) T Jason Fabini practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Philadelphia Eagles (PHI) C Trey Darilek practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

G Artis Hicks practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL San Diego Chargers (SD) G Toniu Fonoti will not play in week five due to his injured hand.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Seattle Seahawks (SEA) T Wayne Hunter will not play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** OL San Francisco 49ers (SF) C Jeremy Newberry did not practice on Friday but is still expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL San Francisco 49ers (SF) T Jonas Jennings did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and will not play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

C Jeremy Newberry did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday, but he is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** OL St. Louis Rams (STL) T Rex Tucker was limited in Friday’s practice and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL St. Louis Rams (STL) T Rex Tucker did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured calf.

*** Friday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) T Anthony Davis practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) T Anthony Davis practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured shoulder.

*** Wednesday Update *** OL Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) G Matt Stinchcomb will miss the remainder of the season after being placed on the injured reserve list.

*** Thursday Update *** OL Washington Redskins (WAS) T Jon Jansen practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

Defensive Line

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Anthony Weaver (BAL) will not play in week five due to his injured toe.

*** Friday Update *** DL Ron Edwards (BUF) will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing shoulder surgery.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Ron Edwards (BUF) will not play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Friday Update *** DL Kindal Moorehead (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Kindal Moorehead (CAR) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** DL Kemp Rasmussen (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Kemp Rasmussen (CAR) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** DL Al Wallace (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Al Wallace (CAR) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured back.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Orpheus Roye (CLE) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** DL James Hall (DET) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL James Hall (DET) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** DL Aaron Kampman (GB) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Aaron Kampman (GB) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** DL Gary Walker (HOU) will not play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Vincent Burns (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DL Josh Thomas (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Josh Thomas (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** DL John Henderson (JAX) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL John Henderson (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DL Marcus Stroud (JAX) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Marcus Stroud (JAX) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Marquise Hill (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DL Richard Seymour (NE) partially participated in Friday’s practice but will be a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Richard Seymour (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured knee. He injured his knee while playing fullback in front of Corey Dillon Sunday.

DL Paul Grasmanis (PHI) will miss the remainder of the season with an injured Achilles. What is the deal with all of these injured Eagles kickers?

*** Thursday Update *** DL Mike Patterson (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Hollis Thomas (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Darwin Walker (PHI) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured thigh.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Jacques Cesaire (SD) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured shoulder.

*** Friday Update *** DL Marcus Tubbs (SEA) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DL Albert Haynesworth (TEN) did not practice on Friday and will be a game-time decision for week five.

*** Friday Update *** DL Travis Laboy (TEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DL Travis Laboy (TEN) practiced on Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured groin.

Linebacker

*** Thursday Update *** LB Gerald Hayes (ARI) will miss the remainder of the season after being placed on the injured reserve list with an injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Gerald Hayes (ARI) will not play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** LB Adam Seward (CAR) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Adam Seward (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured foot.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Joe Odom (CHI) will not play in week five and will miss two to three more week with an injured ankle.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Matt Stewart (CLE) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** LB Dat Nguyen (DAL) practiced on Friday but remains questionable for week five. The tests on his neck revealed no structural damage. His status really depends upon how his neck responds to Friday’s work, so barring a setback he will likely play against the Eagles.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Dat Nguyen (DAL) added to the injury report as questionable with a neck stinger. He did not practice on Thursday. His status for week five is yet to be determined.

*** Friday Update *** LB Patrick Chukwurah (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Patrick Chukwurah (DEN) practiced on Thursday but remains iffy with his injured thigh.

*** Friday Update *** LB Louis Green (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Louis Green (DEN) practiced on Thursday but remains iffy with his injured hamstring.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Alex Lewis (DET) practiced some on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** LB Nail Diggs (GB) will miss six to eight weeks due to his injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Nail Diggs (GB) will not play in week five and will miss four to six week with an injured knee.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Jason Babin (HOU) will not play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Friday Update *** LB Gilbert Gardner (IND) partially participated in Friday’s practice and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Gilbert Gardner (IND) practiced some on Thursday and was upgraded from out to questionable with his injured ankle.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Gilbert Gardner (IND) will not play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** LB David Thornton (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB David Thornton (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** LB Jamie Winborn (JAX) has been traded from the 49ers to the Jaguars in exchange for an undisclosed 2006 draft pick. "It's exciting," Winborn said. "It's a new start for me."

LB Jamie Winborn (JAX) is still in limbo. The team is trying to trade him. A few teams have expressed interest, but the 49ers have obviously found no takers.

*** Friday Update *** LB Junior Seau (MIA) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Junior Seau (MIA) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured calf.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Tully Banta-Cain (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured knee.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Matt Chatham (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** LB James Allen (NO) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB James Allen (NO) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** LB T.J. Slaughter (NO) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB T.J. Slaughter (NO) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured groin.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Eric Barton (NYJ) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Jeremiah Trotter (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** LB James Farrior (PIT) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB James Farrior (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Wednesday Update *** LB Clark Haggans (PIT) will not play in week five due to his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** LB Joey Porter (PIT) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Joey Porter (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Steve Foley (SD) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured abdomen.

*** Friday Update *** LB Julian Peterson (SF) partially participated in Friday’s practice and is at best a game-time decision for week five. According to HC Mike Nolan, Peterson “might be doubtful”. That’s not promising.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Julian Peterson (SF) did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** LB Dexter Coakley (STL) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Dexter Coakley (STL) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

LB Lavar Arrington (WAS) is nothing more than a part time player for the Redskins and has now become the subject of trade rumors.

*** Thursday Update *** LB Chris Clemons (WAS) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

Defensive Back

*** Friday Update *** DB Eric Johnson (ARI) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Eric Johnson (ARI) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** DB David Macklin (ARI) did not practice on Friday and will be a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB David Macklin (ARI) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** DB Adrian Mayes (ARI) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

DB Antrel Rolle (ARI) will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on hiss left knee.

*** Friday Update *** DB Raymond Walls (ARI) did not practice on Friday and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Raymond Walls (ARI) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured groin.

*** Friday Update *** DB Coy Wire (BUF) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Coy Wire (BUF) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured thigh.

*** Friday Update *** DB Chris Gamble (CAR) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five. Ricky Manning, Jr. is expected to get the start.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Chris Gamble (CAR) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Mike Minter (CAR) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Mike Minter (CAR) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Madieu Williams (CIN) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Madieu Williams (CIN) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Friday Update *** DB Roc Alexander (DEN) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Champ Bailey (DEN) practiced but was limited on Friday. The team is more optimistic about him than they have been all week. He will be a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Champ Bailey (DEN) practiced again on Thursday but is still limited by his injured hamstring. He looks like a possible game time decision for week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Nick Ferguson (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Nick Ferguson (DEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five

*** Friday Update *** DB Darrent Williams (DEN) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Darrent Williams (DEN) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Vernon Fox (DET) practiced a bit on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured elbow.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Andre' Goodman (DET) practiced on Thursday but remains questionable to play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Keith Smith (DET) was limited in Thursday’s practice and remains iffy to play in week five due to his injured shoulder.

*** Friday Update *** DB Al Harris (GB) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Al Harris (GB) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Earl Little (GB) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Earl Little (GB) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and looks like a game time decision for week five with his injured hamstring.

*** Friday Update *** DB Phillip Buchanon (HOU) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Phillip Buchanon (HOU) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Nick Harper (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Nick Harper (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Joseph Jefferson (IND) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured toe.

*** Friday Update *** DB Gerome Sapp (IND) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Gerome Sapp (IND) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Randall Gay (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Tyrone Poole (NE) partially participated in Friday’s practice and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Tyrone Poole (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB James Sanders (NE) partially participated in Friday’s practice and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB James Sanders (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Chad Scott (NE) partially participated in Friday’s practice and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Chad Scott (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured shoulder and hand.

*** Friday Update *** DB Duane Starks (NE) partially participated in Friday’s practice and looks like a game-time decision for week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Duane Starks (NE) did not fully participate in Thursday’s practice and remains questionable with his injured thigh.

*** Friday Update *** DB Fakhir Brown (NO) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Fakhir Brown (NO) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured knee.

*** Friday Update *** DB Mel Mitchell (NO) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Mel Mitchell (NO) did not practice on Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured hamstring.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Sean Considine (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Brian Dawkins (PHI) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and looks like a game time decision for week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Roderick Hood (PHI) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Ricardo Colclough (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Ike Taylor (PIT) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Ike Taylor (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Deshea Townsend (PIT) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Bhawoh Jue (SD) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured shoulder.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Hanik Milligan (SD) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Derrick Johnson (SF) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Derrick Johnson (SF) did not practice on Thursday and will not play in week five due to his injured thigh.

*** Friday Update *** DB Willie Middlebrooks (SF) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Willie Middlebrooks (SF) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured groin.

*** Wednesday Update *** DB Ahmed Plummer (SF) will not play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Chris Johnson (STL) practiced on Friday and will play in week five.

*** Friday Update *** DB Dexter Jackson (TB) practiced on Friday and is expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Dexter Jackson (TB) practiced on Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to play in week five despite his injured hamstring.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Jermaine Phillips (TB) did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and is not expected to play in week five due to his injured thumb.

*** Wednesday Update *** DB Vincent Fuller (TEN) will not play in week five due to his injured ankle.

*** Friday Update *** DB Walt Harris (WAS) did not practice on Friday and is not expected to play in week five.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Walt Harris (WAS) did not practice on Thursday and is iffy to play in week five due to his injured calf.

*** Thursday Update *** DB Pierson Prioleau (WAS) practiced on Thursday and is expected to play in week five.