Rivera says Panthers WR Smith didn't break finger in practice

SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith injured his finger during Tuesday's padded practice, but coach Ron Rivera confirmed it's not broken and isn't anything that will keep the player out of any regular-season games.

Smith, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, sustained a cut near the base of his left middle finger that required stitches, but X-rays revealed no broken bones. Smith injured the finger while attempting to catch a pass in Tuesday morning's practice.

"There was no dislocation," Rivera said. "The ball went right in between (his fingers)."

Smith left the morning practice early to have his finger checked out by the medical staff. He didn't participate in the night practice and is expected to miss about a week or so. Smith was spotted in the team's dining room a few hours after the injury with the middle finger on his left hand heavily wrapped.

Smith is the Panthers' all-time leader in touchdowns and figures to play a pivotal role in their offense this season.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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Rodgers downplays sloppy practice showing by Packers

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Asked about a sloppy showing by the Packers' offense the previous night, Aaron Rodgers channeled his inner Allen Iverson.

"Practice?" the quarterback said Tuesday in a deadpanned tribute to the NBA star's oft-imitated rant. "We're talking about practice? Not talking about the game, talking about practice, right?"

Rodgers acknowledged that Green Bay's offense made too many mistakes Monday night, but he didn't see any sense in dwelling on it.

And Rodgers firmly dismissed the notion that the reigning Super Bowl champions made a mistake by not coming together for informal practice sessions during the lockout, offering only a one-word answer: "No."

Rodgers will be talking about a game -- well, sort of -- instead of practice soon enough, as the Packers open preseason play Saturday at Cleveland after visiting the White House on Friday.

"I'm not sure how much we're going to play," Rodgers said. "Usually it's not a whole lot. Just get that timing back, maybe take a couple hits. Maybe one. And just get back into the swing of things."

Packers coach Mike McCarthy had harsh words for his team Monday night, saying they were "not close to where we need to be as a football team" after a practice filled with mental mistakes, penalties and fumbles by running backs James Starks and Ryan Grant.

McCarthy said at the beginning of camp that he didn't have an issue with the fact that his players didn't organize informal offseason workouts. Several teams did -- including the team the Packers will play in their regular-season opener, the New Orleans Saints.

Given the disjointed nature of the offseason, McCarthy said it might be expected that players across the league would make more mistakes in camp. Still, McCarthy said he's holding his players to the same standard he always does and now needs them to "mentally tighten it down."

Rodgers didn't want to overreact to one sloppy practice, but he did show frustration at mental mistakes by the offense -- something he believed might be the result of players not showing up in shape, although he didn't call his teammates out by name.

"To me, this is a self-motivated league," Rodgers said. "In order to be successful, you have to be willing to put the time in on your own. And part of that is coming into camp in shape. I think you saw last night, we got tired last night and there was a lot of mental mistakes. So we've got to pick up the urgency I think."

Rodgers hasn't been perfect himself, throwing an interception to undrafted rookie Brandian Ross in Saturday's rain-shortened Family Night event.

"It surprised me, too, I don't know what he's doing jumping that route," Rodgers joked. "Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good in a situation like that."

Rodgers said the defense generally is one step ahead of the offense at this point in camp, as the offense installs some of its more complex concepts.

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"So I'm not overly concerned about a practice like last night," Rodgers said. "I think the thing that you think about is the tempo and urgency. I feel good about where I'm at, I feel like I'm moving well in the pocket, the ball's coming out well. It'll be nice to get back on the field and start running stuff that we're going to run during the season."

Packers safety Nick Collins said the offense and defense try to make practices as competitive as possible -- both to get each other ready for the regular season and break up some of the monotony of camp.

"We feel, as a team, we give each other the best look for our opponents," Collins said. "We kind of make it interesting, have fun, crack little jokes."

An indication of that competitiveness: When an offensive player makes a shoestring catch in practice, defensive players on the sideline immediately yell and point to the ground, lobbying for an incompletion.

"That's just the characters that we have on this team," Collins said. "That's why I feel like we have another special group, and the sky's the limit for us. We've just got to go out and grab it, and at the same time, have fun doing it."

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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Gore returns to 49ers practice; contract work continues

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Frank Gore practiced Tuesday with the San Francisco 49ers for the first time this offseason, breathing life into an offense that has been working this summer without several top players.

The two-time Pro Bowl running back ended his four-day holdout Monday and was back on the field a day later as the 49ers conducted their second padded practice of camp.

Gore was welcomed back by a new coaching staff and several players who have been anticipating his arrival.

"I almost hugged him and gave him a kiss, but I tried to play it cool," wide receiver Josh Morgan said. "It was really exciting to see him."

Gore, who missed San Francisco's final five games last season with a fractured hip, is in the final year of his contract with the 49ers that will pay him $2.9 million this season with a $2 million roster bonus. He is seeking a contract extension.

Gore said the holdout was a mutual decision between him and agent Drew Rosenhaus. But a few days away from the team was all it took to convince Gore to return.

"I love the game and I missed the game," Gore said. "I'm a football player and I missed being out here with my team. I'm here to get better and try to take this organization where it needs to go."

Gore has led the 49ers in rushing every year since being drafted in 2005, including a team-record four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons from 2006-2009. Gore was on his way to extending that string last season before his injury. He finished the season with 853 yards rushing and 46 receptions for 452 yards.

The 49ers are installing a new offense this summer under new coach Jim Harbaugh, and Gore once again figures to be a key component of San Francisco's attack. Harbaugh wasted no time giving Gore extensive duty with the first-team offense during his first day back.

"There's quite a difference in communication when he's in the huddle," Harbaugh said. "I'm very impressed with the way he hits the hole extremely quick and fast. It raises the competition and gives some of our young backs an example of what a top-notch pro looks like."

The 49ers had second-year player Anthony Dixon and rookie Kendall Hunter taking most of the snaps at halfback with the first unit during previous camp practices.

Gore was a welcome addition to an offensive huddle that also has been missing incumbent starting quarterback Alex Smith and No. 1 wide receiver Michael Crabtree.

Smith and other free agents who recently signed contracts with the team can't practice until Thursday, and Crabtree has a foot injury that could keep him out several weeks.

Gore spent the offseason working out near his home in Miami and did not participate in player-organized 49ers workouts in June that were attended by most of his offensive teammates at San Jose State University.

The entire offensive tempo seemed to pick up with Gore back on the field.

"Frank's a leader on this football team and the energy is up," tackle Joe Staley said. "Any time Frank's back there, he's going to take care of business. Just having him back on the field, his presence, is good for everybody and it raises spirits. The way he prepares and the way he communicates is a standard to live up to."

Harbaugh said "diligent" contract negotiations continue with Gore's representatives and he expects there to be a resolution on a new deal "sooner rather than later."

"Frank's a 49er and we want Frank here," Harbaugh said. "We want Frank happy, too."

Said Gore: "I want to be a 49er forever, and if the contract comes, it comes. I felt like a kid out there today, and I'm just happy to be back. I'm sorry about the little holdup, but I'm back and I'm ready to go to work and get better."

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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McKenzie goes from Bucs' practice squad to offseason leader

A new leader has emerged for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason -- and he wasn't even on the 53-man roster until December.

Such is the rise of linebacker Tyrone McKenzie from practice-squad member to Bucs workout organizer during the NFL lockout, The Tampa Tribune reported Tuesday.

"Tyrone is a different kind of dude," said quarterback Josh Freeman, another driving force behind the Bucs' workouts at the University of South Florida. "From the day we picked him up, he's always had that confidence, the sort of qualities leaders possess. He came in humbled, worked as hard as he could, and this offseason has been a great opportunity for him to step up and show his leadership skills."

McKenzie organized defensive workouts for the Bucs, including scripting drills with help from safety Sean Jones for the team's three-day minicamp last week.

McKenzie's path to such influence is anything but conventional.

He missed the 2009 season because of a knee injury sustained after the New England Patriots selected the former South Florida player in the third round of that April's draft. He spent the first half of the 2010 season on the Patriots' practice squad before asking for, and receiving, his release. The Bucs scooped him up Nov. 9 and placed him on their practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster Dec. 14.

"I reached out to Josh a few months ago when we were (working out) at USF, and I told him I thought it would be a great idea if we contacted the guys that are NFLPA reps -- Maurice Stovall, Davin Joseph -- and get the emails for all the guys on the team and have a little minicamp," McKenzie said. "I saw what Freeman was doing and I thought this would be a great time for me to step up and show my leadership as well."

McKenzie went to great lengths -- literally -- to gain a better grasp of the Bucs' playbook. He reached out to fellow linebacker Barrett Ruud, but Ruud's schedule wouldn't allow him to return to Florida. So McKenzie flew to Nebraska to meet with the veteran.

"I flew up to Nebraska and met with Barrett and he was nice enough to sit down with me," McKenzie said. "We went over the defense. I had a good grasp of it with (linebackers) coach (Joe) Baker during the season. It was good to sit down with somebody and talk about football.

"I flew up to Omaha and he drove from Lincoln to Omaha to see me. Me and him met in the lobby and went over tape. That shows the type of classy guy Barrett is and leadership he has."

McKenzie said he simply saw an opportunity and seized it.

"How I was raised playing Pop Warner, anybody can be a leader," McKenzie said. "I can be a leader, Josh (Freeman), to the last guy on the roster. As a young team, I feel like it's a great opportunity for me to step up and just try to help this team win."

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Kaepernick looks good, ailing Crabtree sits at 49ers' practice

Colin Kaepernick decided to skip a symposium for NFL rookies this week to spend time with his San Francisco 49ers teammates and learn some of the playbook.

He's doing a little more than that.

The second-round draft pick out of Nevada was a full participant on the first day of an informal minicamp Tuesday in San Jose, Calif., showing off his strong arm and moving swiftly for the first time since having surgery on his lower left leg in early May. Kaepernick said he doesn't feel limited at all but is waiting for an upcoming doctor's appointment before he resumes his complete training program.

"Definitely have to get back a little of the timing, get back to the pace of the routes, the timing of certain things," he said. "That's just going to take a little bit of time. For the most part, I felt like I was on time with most of my throws today and felt good out there."

Kaepernick was among about two dozen players at the workout led by quarterback Alex Smith, a free agent expected to re-sign with San Francisco once the NFL lockout is lifted. While Smith is the presumed favorite for the starting spot, Kaepernick figures to put some pressure on the veteran next season.

That competition already might have started.

The hard-throwing Kaepernick even knocked down a couple of receivers in some drills, giving a glimpse of an arm that registered the fastest throw during the NFL Scouting Combine four months ago at 59 mph. Kaepernick also took snaps, dropped back and moved in the pocket -- all things he didn't do during the first minicamp earlier this month -- with relative ease.

"He doesn't have that rookie, deer-in-the-headlights mentality," left tackle Joe Staley said. "I think he's going to be a good quarterback."

Kaepernick called his fellow 49ers rookies once he decided not to attend the NFL Players Association-operated rookie symposium this week in Bradenton, Fla. The only rookies at the previous minicamp who didn't attend were running back Kendall Hunter and guard Daniel Kilgore.

Kaepernick said he came to the decision to skip the conference after seeking advice from his agent, Scott Smith, and other rookies and teammates.

"We thought it would be best if I was here for this camp, especially being able to fully participate now, just being with my teammates," Kaepernick said. "Also, we had heard that a lot of the rookies weren't going. We thought this would be a great reason to miss that. Not to say that that wouldn't be very helpful, but we thought that this would be more important at this time."

The 49ers' workouts this week are still heavily focused on offense.

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The group on hand included most of the key offensive players and almost all the receivers, including Michael Crabtree. He was part of the classroom session but mostly watched on the field at San Jose State's Spartan Stadium while he recovers from sore feet, teammates said. He didn't speak to reporters.

This is similar to the 49ers' first round of workouts earlier this month, when Crabtree sat out all workouts but one because of discomfort in both feet. Teammate Josh Morgan said at the time that Crabtree had developed the sore feet because of new sneakers he had worn in his initial June 6 workout, according to The Sacramento Bee.

The primary difference in this workout was the addition of film from new coach Jim Harbaugh's West Coast offense. That included Harbaugh's offense at Stanford and NFL clips from Steve Young's 49ers and Rich Gannon's Oakland Raiders.

Smith has primarily led the classroom sessions with receivers, and Staley is breaking off into groups with the offensive lineman.

"I think everything is going good so far," Morgan said. "Camp Alex is a success."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Fired for taping practice, Scarnecchia hired by Syracuse

Former Broncos videographer Steve Scarnecchia, the team's video operations director who illegally taped a six-minute portion of the San Francisco 49ers' Oct. 30 practice in London, has been hired by Syracuse University to take over video operations, the school announced Friday. He replaces Erik Kunttu, who left to become the video coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts.

"I am 100 percent certain (Scarnecchia) is the right man for this job," Syracuse head coach Doug Marrone told The Post-Standard. "Steve knows he made a mistake. He acknowledged his mistake and faced the consequences. I am convinced that he has learned his lesson. Steve is a Syracuse University graduate, and I am thrilled to have him back at his alma mater."

Scarnecchia earned his bachelor’s degree in television, radio and film from Syracuse’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, graduating cum laude in 2000.

About a month after the Broncos lost to the 49ers, 24-16 at Wembley Stadium, the Broncos informed the NFL that Scarnecchia filmed part of the 49ers' walk-through the day prior to the game. He presented the video that day to head coach Josh McDaniels, who declined to view it. McDaniels was cleared from the video-taping incident, but he and the Broncos were each fined $50,000 because McDaniels failed to report the incident as required by league policy. McDaniels was fired Dec. 6, less than halfway through his four-year contract.

Scarnecchia and McDaniels previously worked for the New England Patriots, who were found to have videotaped New York Jets coaches sending in signals during a game in 2007.

The league's investigation determined New England had violated rules over several seasons. Scarnecchia, who was a Jets employee when the Patriots were penalized, worked for New England between 2001 and 2005. He was found to have participated in New England's videotaping when he worked for the Patriots in the early 2000s.

The NFL bans such videotaping and issued $750,000 in fines against the Patriots and coach Bill Belichick. The Patriots also were stripped of their 2008 first-round draft pick.

McDaniels, who worked in New England from 2001 to 2009, hired Scarnecchia in Denver shortly after becoming the Broncos' coach.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Brady back for more, heads Patriots' heavily attended practice

BOSTON -- Tom Brady has done plenty of traveling this offseason -- to Brazil for Carnival; to Mexico, where he navigated a water slide; to the Kentucky Derby, where he sported a Panama hat over his long locks.

Patriots QB Tom Brady throws a pass during Thursday's players-only workout at Boston College. (Winslow Townson/Associated Press)

All captured, of course, on camera.

Now the New England Patriots' globe-trotting quarterback is back in Massachusetts with teammates at informal workouts.

"Oh," wide receiver Wes Welker told them with a smile as he left, "you found us."

Just 20 miles north of his home stadium in Foxborough, Brady helped lead the session at Boston College's Alumni Stadium on Thursday.

More than 40 players, including several draft choices, attended. There was no hitting -- since injuries wouldn't be covered by the team -- uniforms or football pads. Most players wore T-shirts and shorts. Still, they were together while the NFL lockout kept them from practicing at Gillette Stadium.

"We're running around, and we're just doing some basic stuff," linebacker Rob Ninkovich said after the two-hour session, "but it feels good because we're together and everyone's out there having fun. So we're just waiting for all this stuff to be over with and then we'll be back, hopefully soon."

The workouts began Wednesday and were expected to continue Friday.

While many players have regularly worked out in the area, Brady has done it elsewhere.

The quarterback returned for the workouts and activities of Best Buddies International, which supports programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He'll participate in a Friday touch football game at Harvard and a Saturday charity bike ride that Patriots coach Bill Belichick is expected to attend.

On Thursday, though, there weren't any coaches -- the lockout forbids them from running team practices. So Brady took charge of the offense, and linebacker Jerod Mayo ran the defense.

"The best thing about it is just that we get to hear some plays again," running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis said. "Everybody got familiar with the sounds and the terms."

There were positional drills, pass routes run at slow speed and sprints from sideline to sideline on a sunny, breezy morning.

Brady walked without a noticeable limp 4½ months after undergoing surgery for a stress fracture on his right foot. At one point, he dropped back, pumped his arm toward the middle, then threw a completion on the right side to another quarterback, Brian Hoyer.

Hardly typical of a disciplined Belichick practice.

"It's just good to be around all these guys," Hoyer said. "That's the main thing."

During the closed workout, several reporters stood behind a locked gate and peered through binoculars at the players.

While Hoyer conducted a 23-second interview as he left, Brady passed by, smiled and said, "Come on, Hoy, no media interviews."

Among those attending were wide receiver Deion Branch, tight end Rob Gronkowski, center Dan Koppen and defensive backs Devin McCourty and Brandon Meriweather. The draft picks included first-rounder Nate Solder, a tackle from Colorado, and third-rounder Ryan Mallett, a quarterback from Arkansas.

Several players who were sidelined for most of last season -- running back Kevin Faulk, defensive end Ty Warren and defensive tackle Mike Wright -- also participated.

Faulk has spent 12 seasons with the Patriots, although he played in just two games in 2010 because of a torn ligament in his right knee, and is unsigned. Danny Woodhead took over his role as the third-down back and also was at the workout.

"I'm fine, just trying to get back into form, that's all," Faulk said. "Right now, you can't say anybody's ready. We're just trying to get back into football."

Ninkovich said he has regularly worked out with Mayo and about 10 other players who remained in the area after the season ended with a 28-21 playoff loss to the New York Jets.

The large turnout this week showed "team camaraderie," Ninkovich said.

"Last year, we didn't end it the way we wanted to, so this year, we've got to start all over again," he said. "I'm just getting ready to play ball, and whenever they tell me to play, I'll be ready. That's all you can do."

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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Packers LB Zombo fully participates in practice; Walden limited

The Green Bay Packers' uncertainties at outside linebacker were on display Wednesday when they took the practice field for the first time since arriving in Dallas for Super Bowl XLV.

Frank Zombo, a rookie starter who has missed six games because of a knee injury, was a full participant in the session at Highland Park High School's indoor facility and hopes to play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Arlington, Texas.

Erik Walden, who replaced Zombo in the starting lineup but sustained an ankle injury in the NFC Championship Game victory over the Chicago Bears, was limited. He primarily worked out with the second-team defense.

"How Erik responds to this practice will be big," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. "He practiced and took reps in every team drill. That was the high end of what we were going to try to give him today. It'll be great if he feels good tomorrow.

"Frank looks good. I wanted to get him as much padded work as possible. It seems like Dec. 12 is the last time he's been in pads. We even got him a bunch of reps on special teams, too."

Zombo, an undrafted rookie who broke into Green Bay's lineup in Week 8 after four linebackers went on injured reserve, returned to practice Friday. He suffered a sprained right knee during a Week 14 loss to the Detroit Lions.

Offensive tackle Chad Clifton (knees) and center Jason Spitz (calf) also were limited Wednesday.

Notes: McCarthy focused on the usual in Wednesday's practice: base packages, third-down situations and specific special-teams scenarios. "The guys are fresh, they're ready," McCarthy said. "I want to keep the risk for injury low leading up to the game, which is why we shortened some things today. But it was good to get back in pads. The guys were flying around; they were banging pretty good. I feel very good about the quality of work, particularly up front. I did not put the pads on them last week because we were coming off a situation where we had played five must-win games in a row, and our linemen were beat up. I wanted to make sure I gave them a chance to get back, and it definitely paid off today." ... Kicker Mason Crosby and punter Tim Masthay worked out at Cowboys Stadium before Wednesday's practice and could do so again.

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Steelers' Pouncey sheds boot, says he must practice by Friday

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie center Maurkice Pouncey didn't wear a walking boot on his sprained left ankle, nor did he use crutches before the team left its Fort Worth hotel Wednesday for practice at Texas Christian University.

But Pouncey didn't practice, and he told NFL Network reporter Albert Breer that if he doesn't go Friday, he won't play in Sunday's Super Bowl against the Green Bay Packers.

"If I'm not on the field Friday, most likely I'm not playing," Pouncey said, adding that it's his thought, not something he has been told by the Steelers' coaching staff. "I'm not going to put the team in a bad position."

Pouncey, who wore regular athletic shoes Wednesday morning and later said he spent the Steelers' practice time rehabilitating in the TCU trainers' room, told Breer the walking boot will go back on in the evening. And Pouncey hasn't resumed running yet.

"I feel positive," said Pouncey, who stood by his Tuesday assertion that his chances of playing were 75 percent. "I'm working to get my range of motion back, but it's going good."

Pouncey, who was selected to the Pro Bowl in his rookie season, sustained a high ankle sprain early in the Steelers' AFC Championship Game victory Jan. 23 over the New York Jets. He didn't practice last week, but he said Tuesday that he hoped to take the field Thursday or Friday.

"He's a center who's got a high ankle sprain," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. "If he played a skill position, we wouldn't be having this conversation. But he's an interior lineman. Whether he practices (by Friday) depends how he responds to treatment."

Backup center Doug Legursky, who could start in Pouncey's place, impressed Wednesday with his quickness to get outside on some running plays, as Tomlin has asked.

"He's an athletic guy," Tomlin said. "And I've challenged him to get out and run and lead that group."

Legursky said he's preparing as if he will start against the Packers.

"I prepare every week as if I'm going to start even if all the guys are healthy," he said.

Aaron Smith, the only other injured Steeler, was limited in practice, and Tomlin acknowledged he is losing faith that the veteran defensive end will be able to play Sunday.

Smith hasn't played since tearing his left triceps Oct. 24 against the Miami Dolphins, and Tomlin said, when asked if he had any realistic hope that his lineman could face the Packers: "I do, but it's fading."

Notes: QB Ben Roethlisberger looked sharp while throwing 10- to 12-yard sideline routes. ... No. 3 QB Charlie Batch, performing with the scout team, was particularly sharp against the first-team defense late in the session, hitting rookie WR Antonio Brown up the seam for a long gain and winning praise from Tomlin. ... Starting CB Ike Taylor dropped a sure interception in the session, leading LB Larry Foote to shout from the sideline: "Save it for the game! Save it for the game!" Others were more critical of Taylor. Said Tomlin: "Our peanut gallery was in perfect form today." ... The FOX television crew, led by play-by-play announcer Joe Buck and analyst Troy Aikman, watched practice.

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Brady back at Pats practice; Branch sits out with knee injury

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady returned to practice on a limited basis Thursday after missing the previous day's practice with the flu.

Brady, listed on the practice report with right shoulder and foot injuries, declined to speak with reporters Thursday, but he worked with teammates in preparation for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills.

Brandon Deaderick returned to practice on a limited basis after being held out Wednesday because of a shoulder injury. Defensive end Ron Brace (concussion) and defensive tackle Myron Pryor (back) also were limited.

Wide receiver Deion Branch missed Thursday's practice with a lingering knee injury, along with tight end Aaron Hernandez (hip), Mike Wright (concussion), linebackers Jermaine Cunningham (calf) and Tully Banta-Cain (groin), and guard Dan Connolly (concussion).

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Stanton, Hill split practice snaps with Lions' starters

Lions quarterback Drew Stanton took initial snaps with the first-team offense Thursday, one day after Shaun Hill opened with the first-stringers, according to the Detroit Free Press.

Lions coach Jim Schwartz has yet to clarify who will start Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, with both quarterbacks receiving practice time with the team's starting wideouts.

Stanton turned heads with his quick return to practice after injuring his left shoulder during last Sunday's 23-20 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With victories over the Bucs and Green Bay Packers, Stanton led the Lions to consecutive wins for the first time since the 2007 season.

Hill broke his right index finger Nov. 25 against the New England Patriots and missed the next three games. He's trying to throw passes while protecting his injury with a taped-on splint.

Regular starter Matthew Stafford will miss a seventh consecutive game since aggravating his separated right shoulder.

The Lions (4-10) already have doubled last season's win total. They close the season at Miami and at home against the Minnesota Vikings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Browns QB McCoy, RB Hillis return to practice field for Browns

BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Colt McCoy was back at practice Thursday after missing one day because of the stomach flu, and running back Peyton Hillis also was back on the field after resting his sore left knee.

For fantasy owners with backfield depth, it might be time to consider benching Browns RB Peyton Hillis. The Ravens' defense is keyed in to stopping him
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McCoy was ill Wednesday and unable to participate in the full outdoor practice. He took part in the early walkthrough period as the Browns (5-9) get ready to play host to the Baltimore Ravens (10-4).

Browns coach Eric Mangini said McCoy looked a lot better and that it shouldn't be difficult for the quarterback to catch up with the game plan.

Hillis, who has rushed for 1,129 yards this season, gained 144 earlier this season against the Ravens.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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McCoy works with Browns trainers, could return to practice

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Colt McCoy still isn't ready to practice because of an ankle injury that likely will keep him out for a third consecutive game.

McCoy hasn't played since sustaining a high left ankle sprain Nov. 21 at Jacksonville, his fifth start.

"We have a shot for him practicing this week," Browns coach Eric Mangini said Wednesday. "I wouldn't say it's a slam dunk, but I think it's a possibility."

Mangini said McCoy was able to work with trainers Tuesday.

"It's different when you're thinking about reading coverages, letting your body react," the coach said. "That's sort of the next step, and it remains to be seen."

Jake Delhomme started the past two games for the Browns (5-7), who will travel to Buffalo (2-10) on Sunday. McCoy said last week that he wants to play again this season.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Niners kicker Nedney doubtful vs. Cards after missing practice

Joe Nedney didn't practice Saturday and was listed as doubtful on the San Francisco 49ers' injury report, meaning Shane Andrus likely will be the team's kicker in Monday night's meeting with the Arizona Cardinals.

Nedney also missed practice Thursday and Friday because of a right knee injury that kept him out of last weekend's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Andrus played in Nedney's place but didn't attempt a field goal or extra point in the 49ers' 21-0 loss.

Cornerback William James, who also missed the game against the Buccaneers, was listed as doubtful, too, because of a concussion. Offensive tackle Joe Staley was ruled out for the second consecutive game while he recovers from a broken leg.

Safety Dashon Goldson (ankle) is questionable for the 49ers. Cornerback Nate Clements (ankle), offensive tackle Anthony Davis (ankle), tight end Vernon Davis (ankle), running back Frank Gore (ankle) and wide receiver Josh Morgan (shoulder) are all probable.

Wide receiver Steve Breaston (knee), defensive end Calais Campbell (ankle), linebacker Clark Haggans (groin), running back LaRod Stephens-Howling (hamstring), cornerback Gregory Toler (foot) and defensive tackle Dan Williams (toe) are all questionable for the Cardinals after being limited in Saturday's practice. Cornerback Michael Adams (ribs), defensive tackle Darnell Dockett (shoulder), wide receiver Early Doucet (head), safety Kerry Rhodes (hand, back) and linebacker Reggie Walker (hamstring) fully practiced and are probable.

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Harvin 'extremely limited' in practice, has words with Childress

Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin is listed as questionable for Sunday's home game against the Arizona Cardinals, leaving Minnesota with just three healthy receivers.

Harvin sprained his left ankle last weekend against the New England Patriots, but he remained in the game and finished with five catches for 65 yards. He missed practice Wednesday and Thursday. Vikings coach Brad Childress said Harvin practiced "on an extremely limited" basis Friday.

Harvin, who also has played after battling migraine headaches, was unavailable for comment Friday.

"You know, he's a tough guy. Let's face it," Childress said. "He injured that foot on his first catch of the game and still was very productive. I would just say that he's tough. Different things respond different ways. Everything goes through your foot and your ankle, so he's got to have his faculties for the game the way he plays it."

Despite that praise, the Star Tribune reported Friday that Harvin and Childress got into a heated argument when the coach questioned the receiver's effort during the practice.

Receiver Sidney Rice came off the physically unable to perform list Wednesday, but Childress said playing next week at Chicago is a "more viable" scenario.

That leaves Brett Favre with just three healthy receivers -- Greg Camarillo, Greg Lewis and Bernard Berrian -- after the Vikings released Randy Moss on Monday. Favre has 10 stitches in his chin and was limited this week with ankle and elbow injuries, but he was listed as probable and is expected to make his 293rd consecutive regular-season start Sunday.

The only other Vikings player listed as questionable is cornerback Frank Walker with a hamstring injury.

The decision to cut Moss, and the way it was handled, has made it another difficult week in Minnesota. Owner Zygi Wilf was in town and spoke to several players, and Childress was short when asked if he still feels he has the support of ownership.

"My sense doesn't make any difference," Childress said. "You'd have to speak to him on that. We've always communicated very well, and I haven't seen any change on that."

Wilf has declined repeated interview requests. The Vikings (2-5) are off to a surprisingly poor start in a year in which they expected to contend for a Super Bowl, and the struggles have not helped Wilf in his pursuit of public funding for a new stadium.

Many fans are upset with Childress. If the team gets off to a slow start against the Cardinals (3-4), he could hear them voice their displeasure.

"I'm not crazy enough to think there won't be catcalls," Childress said. "That's part of the deal. That's every time I walk on and off a field. It's always interesting to hear what the people have to say. That's part of the audience participation thing."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Williams misses practice again, further hurting Panthers' offense

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- A year ago, Carolina Panthers running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart had a catchy nickname and a new website, and they became the first teammates in NFL history each to rush for more than 1,100 yards.

This year, there's little to celebrate. The Panthers are 1-5, both backs are struggling, and now Williams is hurt, too.

Double Trouble has become troubled.

Williams, who missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday because of a sore foot, has managed just 361 yards on 87 carries with one touchdown. Stewart has fared even worse with just 148 yards on 50 carries and one score.

Last season, they each averaged more than 5 yards per carry, combining for 2,250 yards and 17 touchdowns for the league's third-best rushing attack.

This year, there has been little talk of website subscriptions and Double Trouble T-shirts.

"Instead of building up frustration, you've got to believe in the guys in front of us, that eventually things will start opening up the way they are supposed to," Stewart said.

There are plenty of reasons why neither player has looked explosive.

The Panthers' running game has been bogged down by eight-man fronts, a struggling and banged-up offensive line, a new fullback learning on the job and a passing game that has featured horrible quarterback play and failed to earn the respect of opponents.

Now the Panthers face the prospect of not having Williams, a 2009 Pro Bowl selection, for Sunday's game at St. Louis. Williams hasn't talked to reporters this week.

That would leave Stewart and Mike Goodson in the backfield against the Rams.

"Eventually, if you keep pounding, keep pounding, it will open," Stewart insisted. "Keep knocking on the door and eventually it will open up."

Even in the Panthers' first victory of the season last Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers, the running game played a minimal role. Williams had 44 yards on 19 carries and lost a fumble before hobbling off in the final minute. Stewart had 29 yards on 14 carries.

It has left the Panthers with the NFL's 23rd-ranked rushing offense, and neither Williams nor Stewart has a 100-yard game.

"This game is a lot easier when the opponent is one dimensional," coach John Fox said.

That had been the Panthers' plight in the first five games. Quarterbacks Matt Moore and Jimmy Clausen combined for nine interceptions and four lost fumbles, and no receiver stepped into the No. 2 role behind Steve Smith. It allowed teams to stack the line of scrimmage with eight or nine defenders to stop the run.

"We've seen eight-man boxes before, and we've been able to run against them," center Ryan Kalil said.

Not this year. A revamped offensive line has struggled to open holes after right guard Keydrick Vincent wasn't re-signed, and right tackle Jeff Otah has been sidelined all season because of a knee injury.

The Panthers benched right guard Mackenzy Bernadeau last week, moving Geoff Schwartz there and putting Garry Williams in Schwartz's old spot at right tackle. They will keep that lineup against the Rams.

Carolina also lost stalwart fullback Brad Hoover, who was released during the offseason youth movement. Second-year pro Tony Fiammetta has taken over, but he's still learning to be a lead blocker in the NFL.

There have been key mistakes by the backs, too.

Williams' longest run was a 39-yard touchdown on a cutback against New Orleans. He tried the same thing again as the Panthers were driving late against the Saints, but he was brought down for a 4-yard loss, helping to knock Carolina out of field-goal range in a 16-14 loss.

Stewart, who barely practiced the past two years because of an Achilles' tendon problem, hasn't taken advantage of being healthy after offseason surgery.

Stewart, who said he feels well physically, is "hopeful" last Sunday's success in the passing game will unclog the line of scrimmage. Moore threw for a career-high 308 yards in his return as a starter, and rookie David Gettis caught eight passes for 125 yards and his first two NFL touchdowns.

"Everyone knows we have two great running backs, really three including Mike Goodson," Gettis said. "Everybody is going to focus on the run. It's our jobs as receivers and quarterbacks and linemen blocking to make plays downfield and kind of loosen up the box.

"Give them a chance to make plays, because that is our strength in the offense."

Notes: LB Thomas Davis, who remains on the physically unable to perform list, is still hoping to return this season after his second major knee surgery in a year. "I'm still trying to make the Tampa game (Nov. 14)," Davis said. "That's my goal." ... DE Tyler Brayton returned to practice Thursday, one day after his wife gave birth to a baby girl. ... WR Devin Thomas (groin) was limited in practice.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Bills DT Williams skips practice with ankle injury

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Buffalo Bills starting defensive tackle Kyle Williams missed Thursday's practice because of an ankle injury sustained in practice Wednesday.

Williams' status for Sunday's game at Pittsburgh is unclear, but Bills coach Chan Gailey said the lineman has "a legitimate chance" to play.

The Bills have been gashed by opposing rushing attacks, ranking last in the NFL against the run. They converted to a 3-4 scheme this offseason but appear to be moving back to a four-man front that Williams helps anchor.

Williams has been one of Buffalo's most dependable and versatile lineman since being drafted in 2006 in the fifth round, starting all but five of the 67 games in which he played.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Titans QB Young still day to day; Collins able to practice

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Quarterback Vince Young paid close attention as backup Kerry Collins led the Tennessee Titans through practice Thursday in preparation for their game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

A decision on whether or not Young will watch Sunday's game from the sideline likely won't be made until just before kickoff.

Young didn't practice as the Titans (4-2) went through their first real workout since Monday night's 30-3 victory at Jacksonville. That's where Young had his left leg twisted underneath him after he recovered a fumbled snap.

Young said Thursday that his knee and ankle feel about the same. His leg is feeling better every day, thanks to constant treatment, but Young doesn't know yet if he will make his 17th consecutive start.

"It's basically day to day still and making that decision on Sunday," Young said. "So right now, I mean just continue to keep treating it and pretty much do some things tomorrow to see how it feels."

Titans coach Jeff Fisher said he will see how Young is Friday before deciding if he will practice then or not.

"Again, it's been a day-to-day thing," Fisher said. "We want him to play, he wants to play, but he is unable to practice right now because of his injuries. So we'll see how he is tomorrow. Tomorrow is Friday."

Young said he is thankful his injuries weren't as bad as they looked.

"To walk away from it with nothing torn, that's a real good thing. All respect to God on that," he said.

Collins banged the middle finger of his throwing hand, but he is able to practice.

Young is 30-15 overall as a starter and 12-2 against NFC teams as a starter, and he has three touchdown passes with a 100.8 rating in two games against NFC opponents this season. He has been accurate this season, completing 61.4 percent of his passes for seven TDs with two interceptions and a career-best 98.8 rating.

There's no need to fret about missing any games. You can watch every contest again with Game Rewind. Get more information here.

Young said he's paying close attention to what Collins sees in practice and the game plan. But Young said he still needs the physical practice as well. How much he can run will be a key Sunday when he tells Fisher how his leg feels, and the Titans decide whether he will start or Collins will go against the Eagles (4-2), who have a sack in 25 consecutive games.

"I've been delivering the ball in the pocket pretty good," Young said. "... Knowing the type of aggressiveness the Eagles have, sometimes you're going to have to take the ball and make some moves downfield in order to keep the chains moving."

Notes: Young was one of four Titans who didn't practice Thursday as they work to recover in a short week. DT Tony Brown (right knee) and Jason Jones (shoulder) and TE Bo Scaife (groin) also watched. Fisher said Brown, Jones and Scaife should be able to practice Friday.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Vick full participant at Eagles practice, could back up Kolb

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick was a full participant in practice Thursday for the first time since he fractured rib cartilage in Week 4.

Vick participated in all team activities Thursday, one day after Eagles coach Andy Reid announced that Kevin Kolb would start in the Week 7 game against the Tennessee Titans.

Vick practiced on a limited basis Wednesday.

Vick's participation Thursday increased the likelihood that he will be Kolb's backup. Vick was listed as the team's emergency quarterback behind Kolb and Mike Kafka against the Atlanta Falcons last Sunday, but was given permission not to be on the sidelines.

Kolb was the NFC Offensive Player of the Week following the victory over Atlanta, completing 23 of 29 passes for 326 yards and three touchdowns. He set career highs for completion percentage (79.3), passer rating (133.6) and TD passes, one a career-long 83-yarder to Jeremy Maclin.

Eagles running back LeSean McCoy also was a full participant in Thursday's practice. McCoy had been given the day off Wednesday as he continues to nurse a cracked rub.

Wide receiver DeSean Jackson (concussion), offensive tackle Jason Peters (knee) and defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley (elbow) didn't practice for the second consecutive day. They aren't expected to play Sunday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Vikings WR Harvin limited in practice with hamstring injury

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin has a hamstring injury.

Harvin was added to the injury report Thursday and listed as a limited participant in practice. Harvin returned a kickoff for a touchdown in last weekend's victory over the Dallas Cowboys, and afterward he called himself as healthy as he's felt all season.

Tight end Jim Kleinsasser took part in some of Thursday's practice, and Vikings coach Brad Childress said he doesn't believes "there's any doubt he'll play" this Sunday at Green Bay. Kleinsasser has a groin injury.

Starting safety Husain Abdullah sat out again, recovering from a concussion. Cornerback Chris Cook was limited in practice, but Childress said the rookie moved around better than the previous day. Cook is recovering from a torn meniscus in his left knee.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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