Tag Archives: practice
How iPads, apps and YouTube can be a band’s best practice tools
It started innocently enough. “Let’s get together and jam” lead to a rehearsal song list, and the possibility of starting a band. I had about a week to organize and prepare for a mostly full band rehearsal. We don’t have a singer yet, so that duty, sadly, has fallen on me until we get someone. As noted on this site before, I’m a guitar player. By nature, I’m a very organized an prepared individual, and I wanted to get everyone prepared for the songs ahead of time. After I sent out links to YouTube clips of the songs to the other members, it was time to get to work.
Here are the apps and devices I used that made my life a lot easier during this process.
Practice, practice, practice
One of the nice things about being the person everyone points to and says, “pick some songs” is, well, the songs I picked I already pretty much knew. However, there’s a huge difference between kinda knowing the song, and knowing it enough for a rehearsal. The first thing I did was create an iTunes playlist with the tunes. When I was driving around, I played nothing but those songs to get them stuck in my head.
When it came to actually putting my fingers to the fretboard, I used AmpliTube on my iPad for 90 percent of my practice — the other 10 percent were with my live rig to get the sounds right. One nice thing with AmpliTube is it will load the songs from my Music.app playlists and let me play along to them, as well as speed up and slow down parts. If there was a part I found particularly tricky to learn, I used Riffstation on OS X to loop that segment while I used the AmpliTube Orange amps to play along. For the first set of rehearsals, I also didn’t worry too much about getting the solos note-for-note, and instead focused on catching the feeling of the solo. I used my Fender Squire USB guitar for most of my practicing since it easily plugs into my iPad and Mac.
For what I was doing, I didn’t really care about my overall guitar sound; I just wanted to balance the volumes so I could hear both the song and my guitar equally. Then, I practiced. A lot.
Charting
I was asked by the bass player to chart the songs for a cheat sheet during rehearsal. While there are plenty of programs that will let you chart songs, I found them to be too advanced for my needs. What I really just needed to do was have the lyrics and then put the chord changes over it.
So, I used Pages ($ 19.99).
I went to a lyric website, cut and pasted the lyrics into Pages, and then added the chords and beat markers over the lyrics. This worked fantastically. In addition to giving the bass player a cheat cheat, I also had something I could reference during rehearsals. If I couldn’t remember how the chorus went, I had my own little cheat sheet. I printed out charts for her and the drummer, and had my iPad ready for my reference.
Running the rehearsal
Generally, I frown upon singers who use cheat sheets live, but in practice, obviously they are fine. Plus, I’m just filling in until we get a real singer (hopefully soon, I really can’t sing). I needed cheat sheets where I could see them while standing up, and I didn’t have a music stand that went that high. Plus, I wanted them right in my face.
For my cheat sheets, I used the iKlip 2 ($ 39.99) from IK Multimedia. It’s a mic stand holder for your iPad 2, 3 or 4 in a fairly secure fashion. Note: it slides into the holder, so I’d be a cautious using it during gigs. Not because it’ll fall out, but it’d be easy for someone to just snag the iPad during breaks. So, if you use it, make sure you take the iPad off when you walk off stage.
I was able to position my iPad with the iKlip so I could read the lyrics while warbling. A minor pet peeve is that I can’t get the iKlip to hold my iPad in the portrait position on the boom portion of the stand. Instead, I had to clip it on the main stand just under the boom.
If a note about how we played something came up, I just edited the Pages document with the note. Usually, this is how long the solos were, or if we wanted to change how a bridge went.
Final thoughts
I’ve written before about how I continue to be amazed at the way technology continues to improve how I approach music. It’s been 20 years since I’ve run a rehearsal. Back then it involved a lot of cassette tapes, CDs and photocopies. While OS X continues to be a starting point for my music, I find now when it comes to rehearsals, everything I need is on my iPad. I also have all my music theory and chord books in the Kindle app, so if I need to learn a chord I’m not familiar with, it’s very, very easy.
Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.
- Forecast: Tablet App Sales To Hit $ 8B by 2015
- The 2013 task management tools market
- The state of cross-platform media measurement
     |
Chargers LB Melvin Ingram tears his ACL during OTA practice
San Diego Chargers outside linebacker Melvin Ingram suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during Tuesday’s OTA practice, the team announced on Tuesday night.
Tuesday was the second day of OTA practices for the Chargers, who began their offseason program on April 1. The Chargers are in “Phase Three” of the program, during which no live contact is permitted.
Ingram, the No. 18 overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft, started two of 16 games as a rookie, totaling 41 tackles, including one sack, with five passes defensed. A good portion of Ingram’s contributions as a rookie came on special teams where he was tied for the team lead with 12 tackles, including a team-high 11 solo stops.
According to official NFL playing-time documents, Ingram logged just 43.61 percent of the Chargers’ defensive snaps. Ingram’s one quarterback sack in 2012 was comprised of two shared sacks. The first half-sack came in a 7-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 28 and the second came in a 27-17 win over the New York Jets on Dec. 23. With the Chargers letting veteran outside linebacker Shaun Phillips walk away in free agency, Ingram was expected to secure a starting job in 2013.
Ingram posted 21.5 sacks during his 50-game college career at South Carolina and his ability to get to opposing quarterbacks was behind his selection with the 18th overall pick in last year’s draft. Ingram’s four-year, $ 8.263 million contract included $ 7.522 million in guaranteed money, including the $ 2.7 million in base salaries Ingram is scheduled to earn over the next three seasons.
With Ingram likely to miss the entire 2013 season, the Chargers may be in the market for a free agent pass-rusher. That could put them in the mix for free agent Dwight Freeney, a former Indianapolis Colt who is best-suited to play defensive end, but had five sacks as an outside linebacker last season in Chuck Pagano’s defense. The Chargers’ defensive coordinator is John Pagano, Chuck’s younger brother. Another connection to Freeney is GM Tom Telesco, who spent 15 seasons in the Colts’ scouting and personnel departments before getting the Chargers’ job in January. In-house options to replace Ingram are Larry English, an underachieving first-round pick from 2009, and 2013 sixth-round pick Tourek Williams, who had 18 sacks in 49 games at Florida International University.
J.J. Watt hits five homers during Astros batting practice, making him the best current Astro
Gotta love this: J.J. Watt stepping into the batter’s box during BP at Minute Maid Park on Friday afternoon. And while he started slow, he ended up belting five into the cheap seats, including three in a row. Watt played a little baseball in high school, but the 6’5″, 295-pound defensive end hadn’t swung a bat much since then. Didn’t matter, though, as he put on a show for the fans.
Started out rusty, found my groove near the end. Thanks to the @astros for having me out at batting practice today.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) March 29, 2013
In an unrelated note, Watt is now officially the best current Astro on the Houston roster.
-Follow Jay Busbee on Facebook and Twitter at @jaybusbee.-
Apple receives petition to ban the NRA’s Practice Range app
The NRA’s Practice Range app has caused more than its fair share of controversy, with critics claiming that it is both inappropriate and insensitive. Originally, the game was rated for ages four and up, something that likewise stoked the embers into a flame of outrage and prompted a change to ages 12 and up. Now Apple has received a petition that seeks to have the game banned.
The game is rather simple: gamers are presented with a virtual shooting range populated with targets of various sizes and shapes, as well as a firearm. Guns include handguns, rifles, assault rifles, and sniper rifles. The weapon is then fired at the virtual target by aiming, then tapping the screen. All things considered, there’s nothing particularly violent or otherwise disagreeable about the game.
Except, of course, that a school shooting just took place, the game was released on the shooting’s one month anniversary, and the nation has been engaged in heated debates over firearms lately. As such, and especially because one of the weapons available in-game is an assault rifle, critics feel the game is, at best, poorly timed, and at worst that it is a deliberate political jab. Because of this, a petition has surfaced over at Sign On requesting that Apple pull the app.
Says the petition, “Apple: The National Rifle Association’s new app “NRA: Practice Range” is an insult to the victims of gun violence, having been launched on the one month anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting. Out of respect for the victims and to signal Apple’s support for common sense measures to help end gun violence, we call on you to rescind your approval of this shameless new product.”
[via CNET]
Apple receives petition to ban the NRA’s Practice Range app is written by Brittany Hillen & originally posted on SlashGear.
© 2005 – 2012, SlashGear. All right reserved.
SlashGear
Rob Gronkowski, Ray Lewis headline Week 17′s initial practice participation reports
Here’s a look at the key injury situations we’ll be monitoring in Week 17:
The New England Patriots listed 21 players as “limited” for Wednesday’s practice. That list includes tight end Rob Gronkowski (forearm/hip), who has yet to receive medical clearance to play.
“When the doctors clear me, when the training staff clears me, when I’m medically ready to play and they let me play, I’m sure that’s when I’ll be out there,” Gronkowski said via Mike Rodak of ESPN Boston. “Basically, the doctors know what they’re talking about. They’ll know when it’s safe and sound and ready to go. I’m going to trust in them, and when they say so, I’m anxious to get out there, so obviously I want to go.”
Also limited for New England: Wide receivers Brandon Lloyd (knee) and Wes Welker (ankle), tight end Aaron Hernandez (ankle), offensive linemen Dan Connolly (back), Logan Mankins (ankle/calf), Sebastian Vollmer (back/knee) and Nate Solder (abdomen), defensive linemen Kyle Love (knee) and Chandler Jones (ankle), linebackers Brandon Spikes (knee/ankle), Dont’a Hightower (hamstring/shoulder) and Jerod Mayo (elbow), cornerbacks Aqib Talib (hip) and Alfonzo Dennard (hamstring/knee) and safety Patrick Chung (shoulder).
The Baltimore Ravens activated inside linebacker Ray Lewis (triceps) from the injury reserve list, but the 17-year veteran will not play in Sunday’s regular season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals. Lewis is expected to make his return in the Wild Card round of the 2012 AFC Playoffs. The Ravens practiced without defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (knee) and right guard Marshal Yanda (shoulder/knee), while wide receiver Anquan Boldin (shoulder) was limited. Four defensive backs for the Bengals were limited in Wednesday’s practice. Safety Reggie Nelson (shoulder) was joined on the practice participation report by cornerbacks Terence Newman, Adam Jones and Jason Allen, who have hamstring injuries. Bengals kicker Mike Nugent (calf) was a full participant, which could lead to a late week roster move with Josh Brown, who has gone eight-for-nine on field goal attempts with 17 touchbacks in the three games Nugent has missed.
Denver Broncos right guard Chris Kuper (ankle/head) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and his availability for the regular season finale will be determined later in the week. Kuper has missed the last three games and the Broncos may decide to rest him for the post-season. Also absent for the Broncos on Wednesday was cornerback Tracy Porter, who suffered a concussion early in last Sunday’s 34-12 win over the Cleveland Browns, and return specialist Trindon Holliday, who is batting an ankle injury. The Broncos’ quest for an 11th straight win could be fairly easy against a Kansas City Chiefs squad that practiced without left tackle Branden Albert (back), running back Jamaal Charles (illness), linebacker Tamba Hali (illness), defensive end Tyson Jackson (foot), center Ryan Lilja (back) and tight end Tony Moeaki (head) on Wednesday.
Over on the NFC side, the Seattle Seahawks practiced without wide receiver Sidney Rice (knee), running back Marshawn Lynch (back), right tackle Breno Giacomini (elbow), defensive end Red Bryant (foot), linebacker Leroy Hill (hamstring) and cornerback Walter Thurmond (hamstring) on Wednesday. The Seahawks can clinch the NFC West with a win over the St. Louis Rams and if the San Francisco 49ers lose to the Arizona Cardinals.
49ers tight end Vernon Davis (concussion) was in a black, “no contact” jersey for Wednesday’s practice. Also limited were outside linebackers Aldon Smith and Ahmad Brooks, who have shoulder injuries, and cornerback Tarell Brown, who injured his knee against the Seahawks. The team also practiced without defensive tackle Justin Smith, who has a left elbow injury that kept him out of last Sunday night’s loss to the Seahawks and is expected to sideline him for this week’s game against the Cardinals.
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (abdomen), defensive end Jared Allen (shoulder/illness) and cornerback Antoine Winfield (knee/hand) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, but should play against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Defensive end Brian Robison, who missed last Sunday’s 23-6 win over the Houston Texans, was limited with a shoulder injury and has a chance to play against the Packers.
The Packers ruled out safety Charles Woodson, who will miss a ninth game due to a broken collarbone, which will cost the veteran $ 562,500 in “per game active” roster bonuses this season. The Packers also practiced without kicker Mason Crosby (illness), guard Josh Sitton (concussion) and running back James Starks (knee). Wide receiver Randall Cobb (ankle/knee) was limited, but Jordy Nelson (hamstring) practiced without limitations and may play on Sunday.
The Chicago Bears are in “must-win” mode and began preparations for Sunday’s game against the Detroit Lions without running back Matt Forte (ankle) and cornerback Charles Tillman (ribs/elbow. Linebacker Brian Urlacher remains out with a hamstring injury and safety Chris Conte (hamstring) was also out. The Lions practiced without wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee/ankle), but is expected to continue his run at a 2,000 receiving yard season on Sunday.
Six Dallas Cowboys did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, including defensive end Jason Hatcher (thigh) and outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware (elbow/shoulder). Both expect to play on Sunday against the Washington Redskins. Also absent were defensive lineman Rob Callaway and linebacker Brady Poppinga, who could face $ 10,000 fines for unexcused absences. Both players had difficulty getting back to the Dallas area due to a winter storm that restricted travel. Three Redskins did not practice in Wednesday’s practice, most notably inside linebacker London Fletcher (ankle) and right tackle Tyler Polumbus (head). Rookie quarterback Robert Griffin (knee) was a full participant and expects to be able to do more on offense this week.
New York Giants tight end Travis Beckum (knee) has been ruled out and running back Ahmad Bradshaw (knee/foot), wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee), guard Chris Snee (hip), defensive tackle Chris Canty (knee) and cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) did not participate. Nicks and Snee are unsure of whether or not they’ll play on Sunday. The Giants listed defensive end Justin Tuck (shoulder) as limited, but the veteran plans on playing against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White (knee) and safety William Moore (hamstring) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. The Falcons have already sewn up the No. 1 seed in the NFC Playoffs and could rest players if they so choose. Falcons head coach Mike Smith does not expect Moore to play in the regular season finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who practiced without starting offensive linemen Donald Penn (not injury related) and Jeremy Zuttah (ankle) and tight end Dallas Clark (illness) on Wednesday.
The Indianapolis Colts have already clinched a playoff spot, but do not plan to rest any starters in the regular season finale against the Houston Texans. The Colts have no shortage of players who could use some rest, listing nine players as “limited” or “did not participate” in Wednesday’s practice. That list includes centers Samson Satele (ankle) and A.Q. Shipley (knee), defensive end Cory Redding (quadriceps), and nose tackle Antonio Johnson (ankle), who did not practice. Right tackle Winston Justice (shoulder), linebacker Kavell Conner (hamstring) and safety Tom Zbikowski (knee) were limited. Nineteen members of the Texans landed on the injury report, though only cornerback Alan Ball (foot) did not participate. Running back Arian Foster was a full participant with an “arrhythmia”, or an irregular heartbeat. Texans outside linebacker Brooks Reed was limited with his groin injury, but both he and Foster should play against the Colts.
Tom Brady, Robert Griffin headline Week 16′s initial practice participation reports
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady did not participate in Wednesday’s practice due to a right shoulder injury. Brady is coming off a game where he set a career-high with 65 pass attempts and his appearance on the injury report could be more of an issue of rest than anything else. Eighteen Patriots were “limited”, with the usual suspects highlighting the list. Wide receivers Brandon Lloyd (knee) and Wes Welker (ankle), tight ends Rob Gronkowski (forearm/hip) and Aaron Hernandez (ankle), starting offensive linemen Logan Mankins (ankle/calf), Dan Connolly (back), Sebastian Vollmer (back/knee) and Nate Solder (abdomen), defensive end Chandler Jones (ankle), linebackers Dont’a Hightower (hamstring/shoulder), Jerod Mayo (elbow) and Brandon Spikes (knee/ankle), cornerbacks Alfonzo Dennard (hamstring/knee) and Aqib Talib (hip) and safety Patrick Chung (shoulder).
Of that group, most, if not all, are expected to be available for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, who had six players absent on Wednesday, including running back Maurice Jones-Drew, who had hoped to return on Sunday, despite missing the last eight weeks of what is a 2-12 season for the Jaguars with a foot injury. The Jaguars were also without running back Rashad Jennings (concussion), center Brad Meester (foot) and middle linebacker Paul Posluszny (groin), while defensive tackle Tyson Alualu (calf) and cornerbacks Derek Cox (hamstring), Rashean Mathis (groin) and Aaron Ross (calf) were “limited”.
Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin (knee) practiced fully on Wednesday and will likely start against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. The Redskins were without linebacker London Fletcher (ankle) and right tackle Tyler Polumbus (head) was limited during Wednesday’s practice. The Eagles announced that running back LeSean McCoy was cleared to play and will start against the Redskins. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (back) was limited.
Guard T.J. Lang (concussion), wide receiver Jordy Nelson (hamstring) and center Jeff Saturday (neck/shoulder) were among nine Green Bay Packers not practicing on Wednesday. Lang could play against the Tennessee Titans, but that will not be determined until later in the week. Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (shoulder) and safety Charles Woodson (collarbone) were limited on Wednesday. Woodson has yet to be cleared to return to full duty. Four Titans were out on Wednesday, including center Kevin Matthews, who has an ankle injury, and first round wide receiver Kendall Wright, who has a rib injury. Neither player is expected to play against the Packers.
Six members of the Seattle Seahawks did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, including wide receiver Sidney Rice (knee), cornerbacks Walter Thurmond (hamstring) and Marcus Trufant (hamstring) and defensive tackles Alan Branch (ankle) and Jason Jones (knee). Running back Marshawn Lynch was limited with a back injury. Seattle’s opponent this week, the San Francisco 49ers, practiced without defensive tackle Justin Smith, who injured his left elbow in Sunday night’s 41-34 win over the New England Patriots. The 49ers led by 21 points before Smith’s injury, a lead they’d cough away in the fourth quarter. 49ers linebacker Clark Haggans (shoulder) did not practice, while linebacker Ahmad Brooks (shoulder), cornerback Tarell Brown (shoulder), linebacker Tavares Gooden (ribs), receiver Mario Manningham (shoulder), running back Bruce Miller (shoulder), linebacker Aldon Smith (shoulder) and defensive tackle Will Tukuafu (concussion) were limited.
The Atlanta Falcons practiced without wide receiver Roddy White (knee) and safety William Moore (hamstring) on Wednesday. Moore has missed the last two games and could miss Saturday night’s game against the Detroit Lions. White has yet to miss a game in his NFL career and will likely do whatever it takes to keep that streak intact. For the Lions, tight end Brandon Pettigrew missed practice with an ankle injury that kept him out of Sunday’s 38-10 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Safety Louis Delmas (knee) also missed practice, while wide receiver Calvin Johnson was limited with a knee injury. Delmas is a “50-50″ shot to play on Saturday night, while Johnson is a safe bet to suit up.
Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (foot) and nose tackle Jay Ratliff (groin) did not practice and wide receiver Dez Bryant (finger) and outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware (elbow) were limited on Wednesday. Murray is expected to return to practice later this week and should play against the New Orleans Saints, who were without right tackle Zach Strief (ankle) and only had cornerback Patrick Robinson (groin) on a limited basis on Wednesday.
Six Baltimore Ravens did not practice on Wednesday, most notably guard Marshal Yanda (ankle), wide receiver Torrey Smith (concussion) and safety Bernard Pollard (chest). Inside linebacker Jameel McClain (neck) also did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and could be headed for the injured reserve list. Surprisingly, safety Ed Reed (shoulder) was a full participant and Terrell Suggs was not listed on the report at all, despite having a torn right biceps. The Ravens will host the New York Giants, who practiced without running back Ahmad Bradshaw (knee), wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee), guard Chris Snee (hip) and defensive end Justin Tuck (shoulder). Bradshaw plans on playing this Sunday, but the statuses of the other three key Giants will be determined later in the week.
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (abdomen/groin) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, but his pursuit of a 2,000 rushing yard season, as well as Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing yardage record, is expected to continue as planned against the Houston Texans on Sunday. The Vikings were also with first round left tackle Matt Kalil, who has an illness, and defensive end Brian Robison, who injured his right shoulder in Sunday’s 36-22 win over the St. Louis Rams. The Texans continue to file a lengthy injury report, though only cornerback Alan Ball (foot) did not practice on Wednesday. Among the limited were cornerback Johnathan Joseph (groin), right tackle Derek Newton (knee), guard Wade Smith (knee/ribs), linebackers Tim Dobbins (shoulder/thumb), Brooks Reed (groin) and Darryl Sharpton (toe) and defensive end Antonio Smith (ankle).
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor continues to be sidelined with an ankle injury, missing Wednesday’s practice session. Safety Troy Polamau and defensive end Cameron Heyward were also absent, but for non-injury reasons. Rookie right tackle Mike Adams was “limited” by an ankle injury that has kept him out of the last three games. Cincinnati Bengals left tackle Andrew Whitworth was limited on Wednesday, but has passed his concussion protocol tests and should suit up for Sunday’ game against the Steelers. Bengals defensive end Carlos Dunlap (illness) did not participate and kicker Mike Nugent was limited by a calf injury that has kept him in street clothes the last two games.
Denver Broncos right guard Chris Kuper missed Wednesday’s practice with an ankle injury that has kept him out of the last two games and could keep him out of Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. For the Browns, first round running back Trent Richardson continues to make appearances on the team’s injury reports, again listed as a “full participant” with chest, rib and finger ailments. The Browns did not have defensive end Frostee Rucker (shoulder/hip) or tight end Jordan Cameron (head) for Wednesday’s practice and right guard Shawn Lauvao (head/foot) and left tackle Joe Thomas (back) were “limited”.
Three Indianapolis Colts have been ruled out for Week 16′s game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Scheduled to miss that game are running back Delone Carter (ankle), linebacker Kavell Conner (hamstring) and center Samson Satele (ankle). In addition to those three, linebackers Dwight Freeney (ankle) and Jerrell Freeman (thumb), plus backup center A.Q. Shipley (knee) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. Right tackle Winston Justice (biceps) was limited, but appears set to return to the starting lineup this week. Chiefs left tackle Branden Albert (back) as able to practice on a limited basis, but center Ryan Lilja (back) did not participate, nor did wide receiver Jonathan Baldwin (illness) and cornerback Javier Arenas (ankle).
Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (hamstring) did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and is unlikely to play in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals. Key Bears who were limited include wide receiver Earl Bennett (concussion), cornerback Tim Jennings (shoulder) and defensive linemen Shea McClellin (knee) and Henry Melton (chest). The Cardinals were without wide receiver Early Doucet (concussion) and had a lengthy list of players listed as “limited participants”, including defensive end Calais Campbell (calf), nose tackle Dan Williams (hamstring) and rookie left tackle Nate Potter, who has an ankle injury.
Buffalo Bills center Eric Wood (knee) was limited, but plans on playing against the Miami Dolphins this Sunday. The Bills practiced on Wednesday without defensive tackle Kyle Williams (ankle) and guard Andy Levitre (knee). For the Dolphins, wide receiver Davone Bess (back) and outside linebacker Koa Misi (ankle) continue to be sidelined and leading receiver Brian Hartline was limited by a back injury.
Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Richard Seymour (knee/hamstring) and safety Tyvon Branch (neck/ankle) did not practice and right tackle Khalif Barnes (triceps) was limited on n Wednesday. Seven Carolina Panthers missed practice, most notably running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle), wide receiver Brandon LaFell (toe) and defensive tackle Dwan Edwards (wrist). Left tackle Jordan Gross and linebacker Thomas Davis were also non-participants, but for non-injury reasons.
The New York Jets placed second round wide receiver Stephen Hill (knee) on injured reserve and practiced without tight end Dustin Keller (ankle), wide receiver Chaz Schilens (calf/knee), guard Brandon Moore (foot/hip) and cornerback Aaron Berry (hamstring) on Wednesday. The Jets close out their home schedule against the San Diego Chargers, who were without nose tackle Aubrayo Franklin (knee) and linebacker Takeo Spikes (hamstring), but may be getting healthier on the offensive line as right tackle Jeromey Clary (knee) and left guard Tyronne Green (hamstring) were full participants.
Six very notable St. Louis Rams did not participate in Wednesday’s practice. Sitting out the session were running back Steven Jackson (illness), center Scott Wells (knee) and on defense, defensive end Robert Quinn (illness), middle linebacker James Laurinaitis (back) and cornerbacks Cortland Finnegan (thigh) and Bradley Fletcher (illness). All six are expected to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who listed defensive ends Michael Bennett (shoulder) and Da’Quan Bowers (hamstring), linebacker Lavonte David (knee) and wide receiver Mike Williams (wrist) as full participants.
Robert Griffin, Jay Cutler headline Week 15′s initial practice participation reports
We begin our look at the key injuries in the NFL with the Thursday Night Football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Philadelphia Eagles. For the Bengals, first round cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick (head/illness) has been ruled out, while kicker Mike Nugent (right calf) and backup running back Cedric Peerman (ankle) are “doubtful”. Nugent missed last Sunday’s game against the Cowboys and was replaced by veteran Josh Brown, who remains on the roster. Defensive end Michael Johnson, who is second on the team with 8.5 sacks, is “questionable” with a toe injury that has him in a walking boot. For the Eagles, quarterback Michael Vick, running back LeSean McCoy and tight end Brent Celek are out due to concussions. The Eagles also placed defensive tackle Mike Patterson on the “Reserve/Non-Football Illness” list, removing him from the active roster.
Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin was limited in Wednesday’s practice due to a “mild” sprain of the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee, but sounds intent on playing against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Left tackle Trent Williams (thigh) was also limited, while inside linebacker London Fletcher (ankle) did not participate. The Browns practiced with nearly a full allotment of players, listing three as “limited participant”, most notably left tackle Joe Thomas, who has a back injury.
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (forearm/hip) did not participate in Wednesday’s walk-through, nor did defensive tackle Kyle Love, whose wife gave birth to their child. As is usually the case, over a dozen Patriots were listed as “limited”, including wide receivers Wes Welker (ankle) and Brandon Lloyd (knee), tight end Aaron Hernandez (ankle), starting offensive linemen Dan Connolly (back), Logan Mankins (ankle/calf) and Sebastian Vollmer (back/knee), defensive end Chandler Jones (ankle), linebackers Dont’a Hightower (hamstring) and Brandon Spikes (knee/ankle), cornerbacks Aqib Talib (hip), Kyle Arrington (knee) and Alfonzo Dennard (hamstring), and safety Patrick Chung (shoulder/hamstring).
Four San Francisco 49ers were limited, including linebacker Aldon Smith and wide receiver Mario Manningham, who have shoulder injuries.
Green Bay Packers safety Charles Woodson will not return from his broken collarbone this week as the club has already ruled him out Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. Woodson will lose another $ 62,500 “per game active” roster bonus, bringing his season-long tally to $ 437,500 in lost income. Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson’s hamstring injury prevented him from practicing on Wednesday, while linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring), guard T.J. Lang (ankle), left tackle Marshall Newhouse (wrist) and receiver Donald Driver (thumb) were limited.
The Packers may healthier than the Bears, who had a lengthy list of players not practicing on Wednesday. Quarterback Jay Cutler (neck/knee), running back Michael Bush (ribs), wide receiver Earl Bennett (concussion), defensive linemen Shea McClellin (knee) and Henry Melton (chest), linebackers Brian Urlacher (hamstring) and Lance Briggs (knee/hip) and cornerback Tim Jennings (shoulder) were out. Urlacher is not expected to play due to his strained hamstring, which could sideline him for the remainder of the regular season.
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (knee/foot), wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee), defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (back), linebacker Michael Boley (back) and cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) did not practice on Wednesday. Nicks is expected to return to practice later this week, but head coach Tom Coughlin was non-committal about the statuses of Bradshaw and Amukamara for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons, who practiced without wide receiver Roddy White (knee), defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (ribs) and safety William Moore (hamstring). Cornerback Asante Samuel (shoulder), left tackle Sam Baker (hand), left guard Justin Blalock (elbow) and No. 3 receiver Harry Douglas (ribs) were limited.
After placing running back Donald Brown (ankle) on injured reserve, the Indianapolis Colts practiced with Delone Carter, who also has an ankle injury. Rookie Vick Ballard is expected to get the bulk of the work in the Colts’ backfield in this Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans. Colts center Samson Satele (ankle), right tackle Winston Justice (biceps) and safety Tom Zbikowski (knee) did not participate on Wednesday. On a short week, the Texans practiced without cornerback Alan Ball (foot), linebackers Brooks Reed (groin) and Daryl Sharpton (toe), and punter Donnie Jones, who has a right knee injury. Seven Texans were limited, most notably cornerback Johnathan Joseph (groin), right tackle Derek Newton (knee), defensive end Antonio Smith (ankle) and running back Ben Tate, who has foot and hamstring injuries.
Eight Pittsburgh Steelers missed Wednesday’s practice, including linebacker James Harrison (illness), wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders (shoulder), cornerbacks Ike Taylor (ankle), Keenan Lewis (hip) and Cortez Allen (groin), second round right tackle Mike Adams (ankle) and safety Troy Polamalu, who has battled a calf injury all season, but had his absence listed as “non-injury related”. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was visiting a specialist regarding his broken left index finger and missed Wednesday’s practice. Surgery remains a possibility, which could end his season. Dallas was also without nose tackle Jay Ratliff (groin), linebacker DeMarcus Ware (elbow), guard Nate Livings (concussion) and first round cornerback Morris Claiborne (concussion).
Three starters for the Seattle Seahawks did not practice on Wednesday. Defensive end Red Bryant was out with a foot injury that has bothered him throughout the season, while safety Kam Chancellor (groin) and wide receiver Sidney Rice (foot) also sat out the session. Running back Marshawn Lynch was limited with a back injury, while cornerback Walter Thurmond, who is coming off his most extensive action of the season, was limited with a hamstring injury. Nickel cornerback Marcus Trufant was out with a hamstring injury that kept him out of Sunday’s 58-0 win over the Cardinals. For the Bills, eight players were absent, a number that is a bit misleading as it includes running back Fred Jackson, who was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury. Other notable names on Buffalo’s “Did Not Participate” list are defensive linemen Marcell Dareus (shoulder), Spencer Johnson (knee) and Kyle Williams (ankle). Starting center Eric Wood was out with a knee injury and is not expected to play against the Seahawks. Defensive end Mark Anderson was limited after missing the last eight games with a knee injury.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Da’Quan Bowers did not practice due to a hamstring injury, as well as a “non-injury” situation that is not believed to be serious. Right guard Jamon Meredith was out due to an ankle injury that has been nagging him for the last few weeks and is not expected to keep him out of Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints, who practiced on Wednesday without offensive tackles Zach Strief (ankle) and Charles Brown (knee), running back Chris Ivory (hamstring), cornerback Corey White (knee) and safety Malcolm Jenkins (hamstring).
The Carolina Panthers opened their week of preparations for Sunday’s game against the San Diego Chargers without running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle), wide receivers Brandon LaFell (toe) and Louis Murphy (hamstring), linebacker Thomas Davis (knee) and defensive tackle Dwan Edwards (wrist). Safety Charles Godfrey, who is moving from strong safety to free safety, was limited with a back injury. The Chargers practiced without inside linebacker Donald Butler, right tackle Jeromey Clary and left guard Tyronne Green, while rookie left tackle Michael Harris was limited.
Denver Broncos right guard Chris Kuper (ankle) and linebacker Wesley Woodyard (ankle) were limited. Neither played in last Thursday night’s 26-13 win over the Oakland Raiders, but could return for Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, who ruled linebacker Jameel McClain out with a neck injury. Inside linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (ankle), safety Bernard Pollard (chest) and right guard Marshal Yanda (ankle) did not practice on Wednesday, while running back Ray Rice (hip) and outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (biceps) were limited.
Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew did not practice and is “very questionable” with a foot injury. At this point, the 2-11 Jaguars should just end MJD’s season and place him on injured reserve. The Miami Dolphins practiced without No. 2 receiver Davone Bess, who has a back injury, and outside linebacker Koa Misi (ankle). Safeties Chris Clemons (ribs) and Jimmy Wilson (hip) were limited.
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dwayne Bowe has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders due to a rib injury. Bowe, who is playing under the one-year franchise tag worth $ 9.515 million in fully guaranteed base salary, is a candidate for injured reserve. Left tackle Branden Albert (back) and center Ryan Lilja (knee) missed Wednesday’s practice, while linebacker Derrick Johnson (hamstring) and cornerback Brandon Flowers (hamstring) were limited. The Raiders practiced without safety Tyvon Branch (neck/ankle) and had right tackle Khalif Barnes (triceps), safety Michael Huff (wrist) and defensive tackle Richard Seymour (hamstring/knee) were limited.
St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson (foot), middle linebacker James Laurinaitis (back) and cornerback Cortland Finnegan (ankle) did not practice on Wednesday. Laurinaitis has not missed a single snap this season, one of a dwindling number of defensive players with perfect playing-time percentages at this stage of the season. Rams wide receiver Danny Amendola was limited with a foot injury, a good sign he’ll play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Several key Vikings were absent or limited on Wednesday, including cornerback Antoine Winfield (did not participate, knee) and offensive linemen Charlie Johnson (ankle) and Phil Loadholt (knee), tight end Kyle Rudolph (shoulder) and running back Adrian Peterson (abdomen), each of whom was limited.
The Detroit Lions practiced without safety Louis Delmas (knee), cornerback Chris Houston (hamstring), defensive tackle Nick Fairley (shoulder) and tight end Brandon Pettigrew (ankle), while wide receiver Calvin Johnson was limited by a knee injury. The Lions travel to the desert to face the Arizona Cardinals, who placed quarterback Kevin Kolb on injured reserve. Notable injuries for the Cardinals are Calais Campbell, who was limited with a calf injury, but is expected to play against the Lions.
Ben Roethlisberger, London Fletcher headline Week 14′s initial practice participation reports
Our initial spin around the Week 14 NFL injury and practice participation reports begins with the final reports for Thursday night’s game between the Oakland Raiders and Denver Broncos.
The Raiders have ruled out defensive tackle Richard Seymour, who will miss a fifth straight game with knee and hamstring injuries. The good news for the Raiders is that running back Darren McFadden is “probable” with an ankle injury that had sidelined him for the last four games. Quarterback Carson Palmer (right thumb), tight end Brandon Myers (shoulder) and safety Tyvon Branch (neck) are also “probable”. For the Broncos, linebacker Wesley Woodyard is “doubtful” with an ankle injury. Stepping into a starting role due to the multiple suspensions of D.J. Williams, Woodyard leads the Broncos with 97 tackles and three interceptions this season. Williams and rookie Danny Travathan are expected to step up if Woodyard is unable to play. Slot receiver Brandon Stokley is “questionable” with a hip injury.
Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields (ankle) and safety Charles Woodson (collarbone) returned to practice on Wednesday, though Shields is the more likely of the two defensive backs to play against the Detroit Lions on Sunday night. Shields declared himself 100 percent following practice. The Packers practiced without linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring), wide receiver Jordy Nelson (hamstring), guard/tackle T.J. Lang (ankle), running back James Starks (knee) and defensive ends Mike Neal (shoulder) and C.J. Wilson (knee). Lions cornerback Chris Houston (ankle), safety Louis Delmas (knee) and right tackle Gosder Cherilus (knees) were sidelined on Wednesday, while left tackle Jeff Backus (hamstring) and defensive tackle Nick Fairley (quadriceps) were limited.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger participated fully in Wednesday’s practice and appears set to start against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.
“I saw him make the necessary throws today,” Mike Tomlin said on Wednesday via Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Roethlisberger has missed the last three games with a sprained sternoclavicular joint in his right shoulder. Nine Steelers missed practice, most notably safeties Troy Polamalu (calf) and Ryan Clark (hip), wide receivers Antonio Brown (ankle), Mike Wallace (knee) and Emmanuel Sanders (shoulder), linebacker LaMarr Woodley (ankle) and cornerback Ike Taylor (ankle). The Steelers will face a Chargers team that has injury issues along the offensive line. Left tackle Mike Harris (ankle), left guard Tyronne Green (hamstring) and right tackle Jeromey Clary (knee) missed practice and could be out for Sunday afternoon’s game. The Chargers also practiced without wide receiver Eddie Royal (hamstring) and linebacker Donald Butler (groin).
Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis returned to practice on Wednesday, which is a good sign for him returning to game action later this month or, more likely, in the playoffs. Lewis was placed on the Ravens’ injured reserve list with a “designated for return” tag and is ineligible to return until Dec. 16.
“I’m making progress and will practice some today,” Lewis said on Wednesday. “But the story shouldn’t be about me right now. We’re playing the Redskins Sunday, and I am not eligible to play. If I can help prepare my team in some way for that game, I will. When I know I will play in a game, or when I play in game, I will say more then.”
Because Lewis is not on the injury report, his participation level was not required for submittal to the league office. The Ravens did not have outside linebacker Terrell Suggs, who suffered a torn right biceps during last Sunday’s 23-20 loss to the Steelers. Suggs is expected to be a game-time decision on Sunday against the Washington Redskins. In good injury news for the Ravens, cornerback Jimmy Smith practiced on a limited basis after missing the last month with an abdominal injury.
Redskins inside linebacker London Fletcher (ankle) and left tackle Trent Williams (thigh) did not practice. Both were “questionable” before playing in Monday night’s win over the New York Giants, so they are likely being eased into the preparations and should play on Sunday. Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall (ankle, knee) also did not practice, though wide receiver Pierre Garcon (foot) and cornerback Josh Wilson (shoulder) were full participants.
The Chicago Bears ruled out middle linebacker Brian Urlacher, who has a “Grade 2″ strain of his right hamstring. Chicago will also likely be without wide receiver Earl Bennett, who suffered a concussion in last Sunday’s overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Running back Michael Bush (ribs), cornerback Tim Jennings (shoulder) and defensive tackle Stephen Paea (foot) missed practice for injury reasons, while Brandon Marshall’s absence was “non-injury related”. Wide receiver/return specialist Devin Hester (concussion) was limited, but could possibly return for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin (ankle) and defensive end Jared Allen (back) missed Wednesday’s practice. Harvin has not played since Nov. 4 and has been placed on injured reserve. Limited participants for the Vikings included cornerback Antoine Winfield (knee), tight end Kyle Rudolph (shoulder) and two starting offensive linemen — center John Sullivan (ribs, knee) and right tackle Phil Loadholt (knee).
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (ribs) was a limited participant, but he will not be playing against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday as John Skelton has been named the starter, replacing ineffective sixth round pick Ryan Lindley. Wide receiver Andre Roberts (ankle) missed Wednesday’s practice, while defensive end Calais Campbell (calf), safety Kerry Rhodes (quadriceps) and running back Beanie Wells (knee) were limited.
Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice (head) was limited as he makes his way through the league’s concussion protocol program. Also limited for the Seahawks were running back Marshawn Lynch (back) and linebacker Leroy Hill (ankle). Defensive end Red Bryant (foot) and cornerback Marcus Trufant (hamstring) did not participate.
Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore (hamstring) and cornerback Asante Samuel (shoulder) were held out of Wednesday’s practice. Samuel had been “questionable” for last Thursday night’s game against the Saints, but played briefly before exiting in the first quarter. Running back Michael Turner was limited by an elbow injury (make your own Golden Corral joke), but should be available against the Carolina Panthers, who practiced without running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle), tight end Greg Olsen (back) and wide receiver Brandon LaFell (toe).
Wide receiver Steve Johnson (hamstring) and defensive tackle Kyle Williams were two of the five Buffalo Bills players to not participate in Wednesday’s practice. That list also includes defensive end Mark Anderson (knee), right tackle Chris Hairston (ankle) and center Eric Wood (knee), who will miss Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Rams. Sam Young is expected to start for Hairston, while David Snow will start at right guard as Kraig Urbik moves to center. Johnson and Williams are expected to play against the Rams, who practiced without wide receiver Danny Amendola (foot), running back Steven Jackson (foot) and center Scott Wells, who has a knee injury and is being held out of Wednesday practices.
Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (foot) did not practice, but expects to on Thursday. After missing a considerable chunk of the season, Murray had 23 carries for 83 yards and a touchdown in Sunday night’s 38-33 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Nose tackle Jay Ratliff also missed practice with a groin injury that has kept him out of the last two games, but he could return against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham was limited by a hamstring injury during Wednesday’s practice. Gresham is second on the team with 51 receptions for 593 yards and five touchdowns while playing in exactly 96 percent of the Bengals’ offensive snaps. Four Bengals missed practice, including first round cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick (head) and kicker Mike Nugent, who has a calf injury.
As has been the case the last few weeks and will likely remain the case for the remainder of the season, New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw did not participate in Wednesday’s practice due to an injured foot. Bradshaw is coming off his first 100-yard rushing game since aggravating his foot injury and leads the team with 836 yards on the season. Right tackle Sean Locklear was ruled out for Sunday afternoon’s game against the New Orleans Saints with a right knee injury that will end the veteran’s season. As for the Saints, backup offensive tackle Charles Brown (knee) and defensive end Martez Wilson (toe) were held out of practice, while safety Roman Harper was limited by a rib injury.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Vincent Jackson was limited with a calf injury, but should play on Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Buccaneers defensive tackle Roy Miller missed practice with a head injury. Concussions once again kept Eagles quarterback Michael Vick and running back LeSean McCoy out of practice, while first round defensive tackle Fletcher Cox was absent due to a tailbone injury. Starting cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie was limited by a knee injury.
Six Indianapolis Colts missed Wednesday’s practice, including running back Donald Brown (ankle) and safety Tom Zbikowski (knee), who will not play against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. Linebacker Dwight Freeney was rested, while left guard Joe Reitz and right tackle Winston Justice are coming off concussions and will have their statuses determined later in the week. No. 1 overall pick Andrew Luck was a full participant with a knee injury, but has not missed a snap this season and will start on Sunday. For the Titans, left tackle Michael Roos did not participate due to a knee injury. After 12 games, Roos is the only starting offensive lineman standing for the Titans, who placed left guard Steve Hutchinson on injured reserve, where he joins center Eugene Amano, right guard Leroy Harris and right tackle David Stewart. On defense, defensive end Kamerion Wimbley (toe) missed practice, while middle linebacker Colin McCarthy was limited in his return from a concussion.
The Cleveland Browns had nearly all hands on deck during Wednesday’s practice, including cornerback Dimitri Patterson, who has missed the last seven games with an ankle injury. Wide receiver/return specialist Josh Cribbs (shoulder/chest) and safeties Usama Young (head) and Ray Ventrone (calf) were limited, while first round running back Trent Richardson was a “full participant”, listed on the report with chest, rib and finger injuries. Several notable Kansas City Chiefs either missed or were limited in Wednesday’s practice, Cornerback Brandon Flowers and inside linebacker Derrick Johnson missed the session with hamstring injuries, while safety Eric Berry (hand) and outside linebacker Tamba Hali (knee) were limited. On offense, center Ryan Lilja was out with a knee as left tackle Branden Albert was limited with a back injury.
New York Jets tight end Dustin Keller did not practice on Wednesday, but may not have a high ankle sprain, after all. Keller’s status for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars will be determined later in the week. The Jets did get Tim Tebow back after the No. 2 quarterback/personal punt protector missed Sunday’s 7-6 win over the Arizona Cardinals with a rib injury. Jets running back Joe McKnight also practiced on Wednesday. Jaguars wide receiver Cecil Shorts (concussion) passed his baseline test, but his status for Sunday’s game with the Jets will not be determined until later in the week. Running back Rashad Jennings and defensive end George Selvie have not yet passed their concussion baseline tests and do not appear likely to play against the Jets. Also out for the Jaguars is guard Mike Brewster, who has a broken hand. Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew did not practice due to a foot injury and is considered “very questionable” to play against the Jets.
Miami Dolphins nickel back Jimmy Wilson (hip) did not participate on Wednesday and his status for Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers is up in the air. Dolphins punter Brandon Fields was limited with injuries to both knees.The big injury question regarding the Dolphins is along the offensive line as perennial Pro Bowl left tackle Jake Long was placed on injured reserve this week with a torn triceps. As expected, 2012 second round pick Jonathan Martin will move from right tackle to replace Long, with Nate Garner stepping in for Martin on the right side. 49ers wide receiver Mario Manningham (shoulder) missed Wednesday’s practice, as did cornerback Tarell Brown (hamstring). Kicker David Akers (pelvis), cornerback Chris Culliver (illness) and outside linebacker Aldon Smith (shoulder) were limited, but should play on Sunday.
Browns QB Brandon Weeden Cleared to Practice and Play Sunday vs Oakland
Browns coach Pat Shurmur gave good news Wednesday, as he said quarterback Brandon Weeden has been cleared to practice from his concussion and will start Sunday versus the Raiders.
“We’re moving ahead with Brandon,” said Shurmur.
He said Colt McCoy may get a few more reps in practice, “but you get the starter ready to go,” said Shurmur.
Weeden suffered the concussion in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s 20-14 victory over the Steelers when he was pulled down by linebacker Jason Worilds and banged his head on left tackle Joe Thomas’ leg.
Click HERE to Read the Rest!
Ben Roethlisberger, DeMarco Murray headline Week 13′s initial practice participation reports
We begin our look at the NFL injury situation with the final injury reports before Thursday night’s New Orleans Saints-Atlanta Falcons game. Five Saints were ruled out, including wide receiver Courtney Roby (ankle), offensive tackle Charles Brown (knee) and defensive linemen Junior Galette (ankle) and Tom Johnson (back). The absence of Brown is compounded by the “questionable” status of right tackle Zach Strief, who has a groin injury that has kept him out of the last three weeks. If Strief cannot play, Will Robinson will start at right tackle. For the Falcons, cornerback Asante Samuel (shoulder) and defensive tackle Peria Jerry (knee) are “questionable” after not practicing at all this week.
Good news for the Pittsburgh Steelers as quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (right shoulder) returned to practice on a limited basis, while wide receiver Antonio Brown (ankle) and safety Troy Polamalu (calf) practiced fully on Wednesday. While Roethlisberger threw during practice, Charlie Batch is likely to make a second consecutive start when the Steelers take on the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. The Ravens ruled out cornerback Jimmy Smith (abdomen) and practiced without wide receiver Jacoby Jones (ankle), linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (ankle/knee) and tight end Ed Dickson (knee), while wide receiver Torrey Smith (thigh) and safeties Ed Reed (shoulder) and Bernard Pollard (chest) were limited.
Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray practiced on a limited basis after missing the last six games with a foot injury. Wide receiver Miles Austin (hip) and offensive tackle Tyron Smith (ankle) were limited, while the Cowboys practiced with running back Felix Jones (knee), nose tackle Jay Ratliff (groin) and cornerback Orlando Scandrick (hand) missed practiced. Scandrick underwent surgery on his left hand will miss six-to-eight weeks. For the Philadelphia Eagles, quarterback Michael Vick and running back LeSean McCoy were absent as they remain in the league’s concussion protocol process. First round defensive tackle Fletcher Cox was also absent due to a tailbone injury, while left tackle King Dunlap was limited with a knee injury.
An extra few days were not enough for six New England Patriots to practice on Wednesday. Tight end Rob Gronkowski (forearm/hip), first round defensive end Chandler Jones (ankle), and 60 percent of the starting offensive line — Pro Bowl guard Logan Mankins (ankle/calf), right tackle Sebastian Vollmer (back/knee) and right guard Dan Connolly (back) — were absent on Wednesday. Twelve Patriots were limited, including wide receivers Wes Welker (ankle) and Brandon Lloyd (knee), tight end Aaron Hernandez (ankle), linebackers Brandon Spikes (knee) and Dont’a Hightower (hamstring). The most notable injury for the Miami Dolphins was fullback Jorvorskie Lane, who missed practice with a knee injury.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb (ribs) was limited on Wednesday, but is not expected to play against the New York Jets this week. Defensive end Calais Campbell (calf) and running back Chris Wells (knee) were also limited, while wide receiver Andre Roberts did not practice due to an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Jets quarterback Tim Tebow (ribs), linebacker Bart Scott (toe), nose tackle Sione Po’uha (back) and wide receivers Jeremy Kerley (heel/hamstring) and Chaz Schilens (concussion/hip) were also limited.
The Kansas City Chiefs were without left tackle Branden Albert (back), linebacker Tamba Hali (knee), center Ryan Lilja (knee) and wide receiver Dexter McCluster (head) as they began preparations for Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers, who conducted a walkthrough on Wednesday, estimating that cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (not injury related) and running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle) would not have participated in a full practice.
Notable injuries for the Cincinnati Bengals were cornerback Terence Newman (shoulder) and defensive tackle Pat Sims (thigh), who were limited. The San Diego Chargers practiced without Donald Butler (groin), wide receiver Eddie Royal (hamstring) and safety Darrell Stuckey (hamstring). Pro Bowl safety Eric Weddle (concussion) was among five Chargers who were limited.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden (head) practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday and appears on track to play against the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.
“We’re moving ahead with Brandon,” head coach Pat Shurmur said via Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
The Raiders practiced without Richard Seymour (knee/hamstring) and linebacker Rolando McClain, whose absence was not injury-related and could mark the end of his tenure with the team. Raiders running backs Darren McFadden, Mike Goodson and Taiwan Jones were limited in practice with ankle injuries.
Six Houston Texans missed practice on Wednesday, including defensive end J.J. Watt (illness), linebacker Brooks Reed (groin) and cornerback Johnathan Joseph (hamstring). Watt is expected to play on Sunday, while Joseph is expected to be a game-time decision for Sunday’s game against the Tennessee Titans. In addition to the six players out of Wednesday’s practice, seven Texans were limited, most notably running back Arian Foster (not injury related), wide receiver Andre Johnson (groin), tight end Owen Daniels (back) and Antonio Smith (ankle) and nose tackle Shaun Cody (ribs/back). The Titans practiced without middle linebacker Colin McCarthy (concussion) and defensive end Derrick Morgan (knee).
McCarthy, who had been bothered by an ankle injury all season, developed concussion symptoms following last Sunday’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
“It’s one of those things where he seems to be getting better and seems to be fine, but I don’t know how that will all work out,” head coach Mike Munchak said of McCarthy’s injury according to John Glennon of The Tennessean.
The Detroit Lions practiced without defensive end Cliff Avril (back), safety Louis Delmas (knee) and Corey Williams (knee), while the offense did not have left tackle Jeff Backus (hamstring) and running back Mikel Leshoure (ankle). Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (thumb), cornerback Chris Houston (ankle) and guard Rob Sims (hamstring) were limited, but could play on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.
Running back Maurice Jones-Drew (foot) was among five Jacksonville Jaguars to miss practice on Wednesday, a group that includes defensive tackle Tyson Alualu (calf) and cornerback Derek Cox (hamstring). Cornerback Rashean Mathis (groin) and fullback Greg Jones (thigh) were limited. The Buffalo Bills practiced without defensive ends Mark Anderson (knee), Chris Kelsay (neck) and defensive tackle Kyle Williams (ankle), while guard Kraig Urbik (knee) and cornerback Aaron Williams (knee) were among seven Bills who were limited on Wednesday.
Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (concussion/shoulder) missed Wednesday’s practice, while linebacker Jasper Brinkley (shoulder), cornerback Antoine Winfield (knee), safety Harrison Smith (concussion) and wide receiver Percy Harvin (ankle) were limited. Rudolph and Smith have been cleared to return and could play against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday. Green Bay ruled out cornerback Sam Shields (ankle) and safety Charles Woodson (collarbone) and practiced without linebacker Clay Matthews (hamstring) and wide receiver Donald Driver (thumb). In good injury news for the Packers, wide receiver Greg Jennings (groin/abdomen) practiced fully and could return on Sunday.
Thirteen San Francisco 49ers were listed on Wednesday’s report, with eight regarded as “full participants”. The only 49ers player to miss practice was tight end Delanie Walker, who has hip and rib injuries. Outside linebacker Aldon Smith, who leads the NFL with 16.5 sacks, was limited by a shoulder injury. Five key St. Louis Rams were non-participants on Wednesday, a group that included wide receiver Danny Amendola (foot), running back Steven Jackson (foot), defensive end Robert Quinn (concussion) and center Scott Wells, who has a knee injury.
Seattle Seahawks defensive end Red Bryant (foot) and linebacker Leroy Hill (ankle) missed practice on Wednesday and their status for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears will be determined later this week. Running back Marshawn Lynch (back) was limited. The Bears were without several starters on Wednesday, including cornerback Charles Tillman, linebacker Lance Briggs and tight end Kellen Davis, who have ankle injuries. Running back Matt Forte was limited, also with an ankle injury.
