His joy was short-lived, however. Late in the afternoon, the club was notified by league officials that Pittman is forbidden from practicing this week and playing against Denver on Sunday evening at Sun Devil Stadium. Pittman, involved in two domestic violence incidents last summer, received the one-game suspension shortly before training camp opened in July. The former Fresno State star was not allowed to visit the facility or talk to coaches last week leading up to what was supposed to be the team's first game Sunday at Washington.

NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, however, decided not to play those games because of terrorists' attacks on New York and Washington last Tuesday. That placed Pittman's status in limbo. He and Cardinals officials assumed he had served his suspension, and Pittman returned to practice Monday.

He was hopeful that he would not miss any more time. "I honestly don't think it's fair if I don't play this week," Pittman said Monday morning. "I did my time."

Tagliabue obviously didn't agree, reasoning that Pittman was supposed to miss a game.

The suspension cost Pittman his starting job shortly before training camp opened in July. Coaches promoted Thomas Jones to the starting lineup, thinking Pittman would be absent for the opener.

Pittman spent two days in jail last week, completing his five-day sentence. "It was long and boring," he said. "It's nowhere you want to be. It was an eye-opening experience. I'm glad this is all over, and I don't plan on ever going back."

Somers noted earlier in the week that Jake Plummer has shown no residual effects from the shoulder tendinitis that limited his practice time the previous two weeks. Plummer did not throw during the team's bye week. Instead, he received treatment on his sore throwing shoulder, which had bothered him for the past few weeks. He nearly skipped the final preseason game, but decided to play. The condition flared up after that, and he decided to shut down during the bye. However, he participated in every drill last week in practice, and his arm strength does not seem to be affected. ...

News on the injury front isn't all good, however. Veteran receiver Rob Moore, who missed the 2000 season with a torn ACL, is listed as day-to-day after straining his right hamstring during Monday's practice. "Rob is very, very frustrated because he has worked very hard," head coach Dave McGinnis said. "We'll just see how it is. I'm frustrated for him."

Somers pointed out that the Cards spent the last two seasons dreaming about getting their top three receivers -- David Boston, Frank Sanders and Moore -- on the field together. That didn't work out, mostly because of Moore's knee injury, and it might not come to fruition this year, either. McGinnis wants the club to establish the run, so he won't be quick to yank his fullback to go with the team's three-receiver sets. That will happen a handful of times each game but not regularly.

Which means Moore will come off the bench as he returns from reconstructive knee surgery -- if he's healthy enough. … The former Jet looked good in practice the last two weeks, but Monday's injury was definitely a setback.

Tight end Terry Hardy has caught 57 passes over the last two years, but there's a feeling around the organization that he hasn't lived up to his potential. His development is crucial because the new offense installed by coordinator Rich Olson utilizes the tight end in the passing game -- it also demands that the tight end be a decent blocker.

RB: Thomas Jones, Marcel Shipp, Michael Pittman (1-game suspension),

FB: Joel Makovicka, Dennis McKinley

WR: David Boston, Frank Sanders, Rob Moore, MarTay Jenkins, Arnold Jackson

TE: Terry Hardy, Tywan Mitchell

PK: Bill Gramatica

However, those who follow the team closely say coaches and starting QB Chris Chandler are more comfortable with Martin at split end. ...

Charles Odum wrote for The Sporting News this week, that Reeves has not committed to using rookie quarterback Michael Vick on the second series of each half, as was the case in the opener. It is possible Vick could be used in a completely different fashion against Carolina next Sunday.

Reeves does not want to upset the chemistry of the offense with Chandler. It may make sense for Vick to open the second half of a game for one or more possessions, with Chandler's return contingent upon Vick's success.

Reeves will keep Vick's planned role a secret each week. ...

RB: Jamal Anderson, Maurice Smith, Rodney Thomas, Travis Jervey

FB: Bob Christian

WR: Terrance Mathis, Tony Martin, Shawn Jefferson, Brian Finneran, Quentin McCord

TE: Reggie Kelly, Alge Crumpler, Brian Kozlowski

PK: Jay Feely

Dan Pompei of The Sporting News agrees.

According to Pompei, Brookins will eventually get a shot at the starting job and if he can it, it will be his. Otherwise, the Ravens will probably be forced to try another player off the scrap heap. Moe Williams should be ready for action this week, but as Pompei points out, the former Viking is more of a special teams player who isn't likely to factor in as the lead dog at halfback. ...

Preston also noted that it would be interesting to see how much Billick uses the two-tight end package with veteran Shannon Sharpe and rookie Todd Heap. Heap has been surprising, not with his ability to catch, but to gain yards after the reception. He might end up with 30 to 40 catches this season if the Ravens use the formation consistently.

There is little doubt that Sharpe will draw most of the focus, and he should because he has performed at an All-Star level so long. But the one thing the opposition has dreaded about Sharpe over the years -- his ability to go deep -- is also one of Heap's strengths.

Down the road, it will be interesting to see how teams adjust to the formation. Neither Heap nor Sharpe are outstanding blockers. Heap, though, might become one. Sharpe has proven that it's not going to happen nor does he care at this point.

One last note: Randall Cunningham has surpassed Chris Redman as the No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart. Cunningham will be the first to get the call should something happen to Elvis Grbac.

RB: Terry Allen, Jason Brookins, Moe Williams

FB: Sam Gash, Obafemi Ayanbadejo

WR: Qadry Ismail, Brandon Stokely, Travis Taylor, Patrick Johnson, Jermaine Lewis

TE: Shannon Sharpe, Todd Heap, John Jones

PK: Matt Stover

The Bills went into the game intent on establishing the run. However, Moulds felt coaches should have mixed in more passes early. The problem for the Bills was the Saints went into the game determined not to let Moulds beat them.

However, Moulds believes his team's game plan made it easier for the Saints to double-cover him. He felt he should have been put in motion or lined up in the slot, where it would have been easier for him to avoid double teams. ...

It appears Jake Arians will continue to handle kicking duties for the Bills. Arians, who was signed to the practice squad last Wednesday, was added to the active roster on the eve of the season opener when veteran kicker Steve Christie was unable to play because of a strained groin muscle.

Arians made both of his field goal attempts in the game, and has kicked well enough in practice to earn the coaches' confidence for now.

Halfback Travis Henry had a nice debut, showing the impressive running skills that earned him the starting job. Fullback Larry Centers gave a glimpse of his value as a receiver with a team-high four catches in the opener. ... By the way. ... Henry has benefited from the surprise week off after coming out of the opener with a sore right knee and ankle; look for the rookie to be at full speed this Sunday.

RB: Travis Henry, Sammy Morris, Shawn Bryson

FB: Larry Centers, Phillip Crosby

WR: Eric Moulds, Peerless Price, Jeremy McDaniel, Avion Black, Reggie Germany

TE: Jay Riemersma, Sheldon Jackson, Dan O'Leary

PK: Jake Arians

"A disappointment for much of his career, the sixth-year veteran and 1996 first-round pick is working his way into coach George Seifert's doghouse with his propensity for turning the ball over. Biakabutuka had a near-disastrous fumble in last week's upset victory over the Minnesota Vikings and certainly is skating on thin ice.

"Seifert likes Biakabutuka as a person and a player but the Panthers, playing with untested starting quarterback Chris Weinke, are trying to keep things as fundamental as possible. It doesn't help the rookie quarterback to have a key player coughing up the ball in critical game situations. Exacerbating the problem now for Biakabutuka is that the Panthers seem to have some alternatives at tailback.

"Rookie Nick Goings, an undrafted free agent, rushed for 86 yards on 25 carries in his regular-season debut last week. Team officials told ESPN.com this week that, if the Week 2 games had been played, tailback Richard Huntley has sufficiently recovered from a lingering hamstring injury that cost him much of the preseason and would've suited up and likely contributed.

"If Huntley can stay healthy -- and, admittedly, that's a big 'if' given his track record -- he will eventually challenge Biakabutuka for the starting job. And no one should rule out the possibility that Goings will see his playing time increased. Personnel boss Jack Bushofsky likes Goings a lot, considers him a steal and admires his toughness.

"'He can be a player in this league,' Bushofsky said of the former University of Pittsburgh backup. 'We were pretty fortunate to get him as a free agent, believe me.'

"Very fortunate, in fact. Bushofsky had intended early last September to catch two college games on a weekend scouting trip, one at Pittsburgh and the other at West Virginia. Pitt moved its kickoff time and Bushofsky was forced to visit the campus a couple days before the game so he could observe practice. It was a fortuitous twist of fate, since Goings was working with the second unit and didn't play much during the season, with Kevan Barlow assuming the lead-back spot.

"'If we hadn't seen him in a practice situation, we might not have identified Goings as a prospect,' Bushofsky said. 'He didn't get many carries behind (Barlow) and he wasn't a guy who jumped out at you on tape.'

"The Panthers had Goings even on their draft board with Barlow, who was selected by San Francisco in the third round. As the rounds continued to go by and no one chose Goings, the Panthers gambled they could sign him as a free agent. Now he could turn out to be the team's go-to tailback and Biakabutuka could be an afterthought if he doesn't hang on to the football better in coming weeks."

I'll note that after watching him practice Monday, Seifert told reporters that Huntley will be re-evaluated on Thursday, but it might be another week before the former Steeler is able to take a snap in anger.

Wide receiver Patrick Jeffers, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in July, is still limited by some swelling in that knee and hasn't returned to full speed. After watching Jeffers work with the scout team, coaches are apparently leery of playing him on artificial turf in the Georgia Dome.

It's probably worth noting that most observers expect Donald Hayes to remain in the starting lineup for some time while Jeffers works his way back into shape as the team's third receiver.

One last note out of Charlotte this week: No. 1 receiver Muhsin Muhammad and starting tight end Wesley Walls continue to stay after practice to work with rookie quarterback Chris Weinke and both players are reportedly developing good working relationships with the young quarterback.

RB: Tshimanga Biakabutuka, Nick Goings, Richard Huntley

FB: Chris Hetherington, Brad Hoover

WR: Muhsin Muhammad, Donald Hayes, Isaac Byrd, Karl Hankton, Patrick Jeffers, Steve Smith

TE: Wesley Walls, Kris Mangum, Luther Broughton, Casey Crawford

PK: John Kasay

The former NFL Europe standout was on the field for 20 snaps in the team's Sept. 9 regular season opener against Baltimore, but failed to catch a pass.

Although he says he's 90 to 95 percent recovered at this point, Robinson admitted it's not easy -- either physically or mentally speaking - to prepare his body for contact. ... "Definitely you wait on the contact and you want to know how your body is going to respond," Robinson said. "But those are things you've got to overcome and put in the back of your head. Play football and whatever happens, happens. A month [after] surgery every little jam into you can go right down your spine. But you've got to put that behind you and keep moving on."

If you're feeling brave, Robinson merits consideration this weekend with the Bears facing a less-than-stifling Minnesota pass defense.

Dez White goes from being a starter to being the No. 4 receiver behind starters Robinson and Marty Booker as well as No. 3 man David Terrell. ... Those who follow the team closely believe it's only a matter of time before Terrell moves into the starting lineup alongside Robinson, allowing Booker to handle the No. 3 role that best fits his mix of size and strength.

Former Dolphin Autry Denson, who was signed by the Bears prior to the start of the regular season, missed at least two days of practice last week when he was unable to get back to Chicago from Florida due to the grounding of commercial flights in the United States.

RB: James Allen, Anthony Thomas, Autry Denson

FB: Daimon Shelton, Scott Dragos

WR: Marcus Robinson, Marty Booker, David Terrell, Dez White, D'Wayne Bates, Glyn Milburn

TE: Fred Baxter, Dustin Lyman, John Davis

PK: Paul Edinger

Scott opened the week listed as probable on the team's injury report, but Fantasy owners might want to downgrade him to "questionable" with the Bengals playing host to a tough Baltimore defense.

Other items of interest. ... Corey Dillon suffered a minor quadriceps pull during practice on Monday. The injury isn't considered serious, however, and Dillon is expected to be in the starting lineup on Sunday against Baltimore. ... Peter Warrick, who is nursing a tender knee, is expected to return to practice on Wednesday. He will start on Sunday against Baltimore, but Fantasy owners should remember that Cincinnati's offense has only scored one touchdown in its last three games against the Ravens.

According to Chick Ludwig of the Dayton Daily News, tight end Tony McGee's confidence is soaring because he's more involved in the passing game. Relegated to being mostly a run blocker the past three years, McGee has emerged as a viable option for QB Jon Kitna. In addition to blocking well, McGee shows a smooth release off the line of scrimmage and is concentrating harder on passes thrown his way. ... Backup quarterback Scott Mitchell's injury wasn't as severe as originally expected. He was designated the third QB in the opener against New England and is probable for Baltimore.

Cincinnati Enquirer reporter Mark Curnutte wrote on Wednesday, "In more than two dozen e-mails received this week, Bengals fans most want to know if the 23-17 victory against New England was a 'lucky start' and if this could be their first winning season since 1990.

"Lucky start? No. The Bengals won a close game against a team they should beat.

"Competent play from quarterback Jon Kitna in the pass offense made a big difference. The Bengals clearly are better this season -- both in personnel and coaching, particularly in the person of offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski -- and the question that only time will tell is, 'How much better?'"

I couldn't agree more. I've been on Kitna's bandwagon right from the get-go.

However, I believe most of the credit for any turnaround the Bengals pull off this year goes to the team's front office. That's right, even though it was long overdue, the decision to dump Bruce Coslet was essential to the long-term health of the franchise. Coslet's offensive scheme was worse than unimaginative; it was unimaginative, ineffective and ultimately kept the Bengals (and for a brief period the Jets) from getting the most out of their offensive talent.

RB: Corey Dillon, Brandon Bennett, Curtis Keaton, Rudi Johnson

FB: Lorenzo Neal

WR: Peter Warrick, Darnay Scott, Chad Johnson, Ron Dugans, Danny Farmer, T.J. Houshmandzadeh

TE: Tony McGee, Marco Battaglia, Brad St. Louis

PK: Neil Rackers

ESPN insider Len Pasquarelli wrote two weeks ago that Johnson isn't a "Butch Davis guy," and he predicted the former Syracuse star would be gone next spring -- if Davis isn't able to deal him prior to this year's Oct. 16 trade deadline.

It looks like Davis is pushing the issue. ...

According to Tony Grossi of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Davis isn't likely to let the fact that KC head coach Dick Vermeil is balking at Cleveland's asking price -- a third-round draft pick -- deter him.

Johnson was the 32nd overall player taken in the 1999 draft, the top pick of the second round, and the first year coach wants to be compensated fairly for him.

Earlier this month, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reported that the Saints balked at giving up a third-round pick for Johnson. After that story came out, Johnson met with Davis and the coach confirmed his name had been discussed in a trade.

"I told Kevin he's a very positive member of this team," Davis said at the time. "We can't control other people's interests. Right now, we're happy Kevin's on the team and he's a big part of it."

In the off-season, Johnson mused to a New Jersey newspaper about rejoining former Syracuse teammate Donovan McNabb with the Philadelphia Eagles. And by golly, Sports Illustrated reported that McNabb has encouraged Eagles coach Andy Reid to acquire Johnson.

Davis reaffirmed to SI his intention to acquire future draft choices as part of his plan to rebuild the Browns.

"What I noticed in my first draft. ... Was that picks have become like gold on draft day," he told the magazine. "You just can't get 'em. So we're trying to get the extra picks now." Davis has acquired four future picks in the trades of Darrin Chiaverini, Ty Detmer, Travis Prentice and Spergon Wynn.

Receiver is one of the few areas of surplus on the Browns. Davis kept seven on the roster. Only four were active for the Browns' opening game against Seattle.

Also of interest. ...

Steve King of the Medina County Gazette wrote this week, "the Browns offense was supposed to feature an entirely different scheme this year, but thus far, it looks more like the one that struggled this year. In fact, it's hard to figure out just what this offense is trying to do.

"Coordinator Bruce Arians needs to start using the short drops, the quick passes, the play-fakes and the utilization of H-back Mike Sellers -- all things that were supposed to be the staples of this new attack. When Sellers makes a rare drop, the Browns seem reluctant to go back to him in the passing game. That's a mistake. He can do much to make this offense go.

"At the same time, quarterback Tim Couch needs to start playing better and display some of the confidence, accuracy and arm strength he showed in the preseason. So far, there have been too many floating passes and too much indecision. ...

"Jamel White is doing everything he can to prove to the Browns' coaching staff that he should be the feature running back. He is catching the ball exceptionally well and running well to the outside, both of which he has always done.

"What he has added is the ability to run between the tackles. He looks a lot like former Browns running back Greg Pruitt, who used to find a small crease and dart through it, sometimes hiding behind the blockers as he anticipates his next move or cut.

"The other back, rookie James Jackson, has been OK, but he's not running with the confidence or decisiveness of White yet. He has the talent, though, so it may just be that he needs to get acclimated to the pro game. ..."

RB: James Jackson, Jamel White, Ben Gay

FB: Mike Sellers, Aaron Shea

WR: Kevin Johnson, Quincy Morgan, Dennis Northcutt, Jammi German, JaJuan Dawson, Andre King, Tony Simmons

TE: Ricky Dudley, O.J. Santiago

PK: Phil Dawson

Carter suffered the injury midway through the club's two-hour practice, when he followed through on a pass and banged his thumb against running back Troy Hambrick's helmet. Carter immediately visited a hand specialist, who determined there was no fracture or structural damage.

Last year, Carter missed the last three games of his senior season at Georgia after straining ligaments in his right thumb. Carter, selected in the second round, struggled in his debut, completing 9-of-19 passes for 34 yards with two interceptions.

Each of his interceptions occurred on a poorly thrown pass that sailed over the head of his intended receiver. If he can't play, then Anthony Wright would start. The Cowboys won't have to adjust much of their offense to fit Wright's talents. ...

ESPN's Len Pasquarelli wrote last week, "While most Dallas players feel rookie Quincy Carter will develop into a solid starting quarterback in time, some veterans weren't exactly upset when the former Georgia star injured the thumb on his throwing hand this week. Had the NFL played games this week, Carter probably would have been sidelined. That would have thrust Anthony Wright into the starting lineup, and players seem to have more faith in the third-year pro. As noted in this space last week, don't assume Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is finished collecting quarterbacks. He'd still consider signing Ryan Leaf if surgery corrects a wrist problem, has his eye on Seattle's Brock Huard and took note this week when Detroit benched Charlie Batch in favor of Ty Detmer. The salary cap ramifications all but preclude the Lions from trading or releasing Batch right now but, if he became available at some point next spring, Jones would be interested. ..."

Taylor noted that offensive coordinator Jack Reilly said the offense was way too conservative in the Buccaneers game. Against San Diego, Reilly said the Cowboys will use more rollouts, misdirection plays and quarterback draws and options that are designed to keep the defense off-balance.

Reilly said the Cowboys were reluctant to use much of their offense because they wanted to limit Carter's propensity for making mistakes. The conservative offense often left the Cowboys in second- and third-and-long situations, which forced Carter to throw the ball. For a young player who is still learning to read defenses, it was the worst possible situation.

The Cowboys' tight end situation remains unstable. The team has four tight ends on its rosters but James Whalen and J.J. Huggins were inactive. That left Mike Lucky and Jackie Harris as the only tight ends on the active roster. ... Whalen will probably miss this week's game against the Chargers due to a strained Achilles' tendon.

RB: Emmitt Smith, Troy Hambrick, Michael Wiley

FB: Robert Thomas, Troy Hambrick

WR: Joey Galloway, Raghib Ismail, Wane McGarity, Darrin Chiaverini, Reginald Swinton, Ken-Yon Rambo

TE: Jackie Harris, James Whalen, Mike Lucky, Johnny Huggins

PK: Tim Seder

"In fact, the new deal might actually make it a lot easier to trade him.

"Anderson is now under contract through the '06 season at fairly palatable salary cap numbers, at least for the next few years. Any team that trades for him assumes only the base salaries, and not the prorated share of the $1.5 million signing bonus Anderson received last week. In essence, you'd be getting a player whose base salaries for the next six seasons total only about $9 million. The Broncos would have to absorb the impact of the signing bonus in any deal.

"But the Denver staff isn't quite convinced yet that Terrell Davis, who certainly had an uneven performance [against the Giants in the regular season opener], will make it through the season injury-free.

"And a hard-running Anderson, who some Broncos players feel is the best back on the team, is a nice (and fairly inexpensive) insurance policy for the club. And any team seeking to trade for him should remember that Anderson, who served a stint in the Army before entering college, will turn 28 years old next Friday, so there is a slight "buyer beware" element involved.

"The more plausible trade bait is Olandis Gary, who has sunk to No. 3 on the depth chart, but there seems to be little interest in the third-year veteran who rushed for over 1,000 yards in just 12 starts in 1999 after Davis suffered a season-ending knee injury. ..."

This also from Pasquarelli: "In the wake of the season-ending broken leg suffered by Ed McCaffrey on Monday night, the Denver Broncos will elevate veteran Eddie Kennison to the starting lineup. The team also re-signed Keith Poole -- released two weeks ago - but the former Saint still appears to be a week or two from making a contribution due to the same hamstring that earned him an apple and a road map last month.

If Poole can't hit the field quickly, the Broncos might consider yet another veteran free agent, perhaps Derrick Mayes.

In the meantime, a player who might see his playing time dramatically increased eventually is sixth-round draft pick Kevin Kasper. The former Iowa standout isn't as tall as McCaffrey, but he's similarly angular, is fearless going over the middle, and catches everything near him. Were he about three inches taller, he'd be a McCaffrey clone, in fact. Kasper started off strong in training camp, hit the wall after a couple weeks of preseason play, but is coming on again now. It might take him until the midpoint of the season, but Denver coaches tell us that Kasper will be a factor for them before the year is out. ..."

In the meantime, tight end Desmond Clark, who had two catches for 55 yards against the Giants, appears to be more than capable of picking up some of the slack McCaffrey's absence creates in Denver's passing attack.

According to the Rocky Mountain News, veteran quarterback Steve Beuerlein took another step in his comeback from offseason elbow surgery Monday when he threw without pain from a distance of 20 yards. The former Panther hopes to start throwing during warm up drills Wednesday as a better test, but he's still weeks away from pushing Gus Frerotte for the No. 2 spot.

RB: Terrell Davis, Mike Anderson, Olandis Gary

FB: Patrick Hape, Tony Carter, Detron Smith

WR: Rod Smith, Eddie Kennison, Chris Cole, Kevin Kasper, Travis McGriff, Keith Poole

TE: Dwayne Carswell, Desmond Clark, Patrick Hape

PK: Jason Elam

The two biggest reasons for the switch to Ty Detmer, who has seven years of experience in the West Coast offense, was that Batch wasn't spotting open receivers and he wasn't making the big play when it was available. Some of the veterans believe the benching is unfair to Batch, but they're supporting the move.

Batch refused to comment about the benching, saying he wouldn't allow a quarterback controversy to disrupt the club as it prepares for a game. "I won't do that to this team," Batch said. Mornhinweg said it was one of the classiest moves he's ever seen by a player. ...

Kowalski went on to point out, "it's becoming clear that Herman Moore will once again be a considerable factor in the passing game. They didn't get a lot of chances, but both Moore and Johnnie Morton averaged more than 20 yards per catch in the last game. Germane Crowell didn't catch a single pass, but was open on several occasions."

Other items of interest. ...

Although most of the injured players benefited from a weekend off, Moore returned with a tight hamstring and didn't practice Monday. The veteran wide out will have the injury checked before Wednesday's practice. ... Wide receiver Larry Foster, who suffered a sprained knee in the third exhibition game and hadn't practiced since, worked Monday and might be ready to play at Cleveland this Sunday. ... Desmond Howard suffered a stinger in his neck during Sunday's game against Green Bay. His status is unclear for this week's game. ... And just in case you missed it. ... The Lions released Reuben Droughns last week and signed former Packer De'Mond Parker, who will serve as the team's No. 3 running back behind starter James Stewart and backup Lamont Warren.

RB: James Stewart, Lamont Warren, De'Mond Parker

FB: Cory Schlesinger, Brock Olivo, Stephen Trejo

WR: Johnnie Morton, Herman Moore, Germane Crowell, Larry Foster, Scotty Anderson, Desmond Howard

TE: David Sloan, Pete Mitchell, Brad Banta

PK: Jason Hanson

Levens played fullback early in his career and is a good blocker, but to use him that way down after down would be a mistake. Thus, Green and Levens will play together only on passing downs or selected situations. Henderson won't play every down, but he still has a significant role in the offense.

The way Green opened the season he clearly hasn't lost anything from last year. ... The former Cornhusker spent the offseason in the weight room and showed that he will be even more physical this year. ... Levens looked rusty in the opener after missing several weeks with a broken hand.

On a more positive note. ... Levens, who broke the fourth metacarpal bone in his hand during the team's Aug. 9 preseason game against the Browns, may be able to play without a splint on his left hand this Monday against the Redskins. He will have the hand X-rayed later this week, at which time a decision will be made. The veteran would still tape the hand, even if a splint was not needed.

Second-year tight end Bubba Franks has made strides since his rookie season, but still needs to make improvements as he goes through his second season. Franks is a big target with very good hands and has the potential to have an impact in the team's offense because of the importance of the tight end in its scheme. The middle of the field is an area the team likes to strike.

Franks' biggest problem right now is concentration. He will catch two passes and then drop another. The drops have very little to do with his hands and more with his unwillingness to look the ball into them. He sometimes seems to be anxious to take the ball upfield. Franks is showing a better chemistry with Brett Favre, who isn't afraid to throw to him.

Franks' blocking has improved to the point where he is an important part of the running game. He isn't always sure of his assignment, but he isn't afraid to stick his nose in where it counts.

Silverstein also wrote this week, "If the club wants to go with its most athletic receivers in the passing game, they would be Bill Schroeder and Corey Bradford. Both have the ability to get separation or make something happen after the catch. ..." Silverstein believes Favre needs a breakaway threat, especially if teams start to devote an extra man to the running game.

RB: Ahman Green, Dorsey Levens, Rondell Mealey, Herbert Goodman

FB: William Henderson

WR: Antonio Freeman, Bill Schroeder, Corey Bradford, Donald Driver, Charles Lee, Robert Ferguson

TE: Bubba Franks, David Martin, Bobby Collins

PK: Ryan Longwell

"The Colts kept hoping that another '98 selection, E.G. Green would step up and challenge Pathon. But the former Florida State star simply couldn't stay healthy and Indianapolis finally released him two weeks ago.

"Coach Jim Mora termed him 'probably the most improved' player on the team in training camp.

"In [the team's season opening win over the Jets], he caught eight passes for 93 yards as the New York secondary concentrated on stopping Harrison. Pathon isn't a pure burner, but he has good size and enough speed and body control to make plays.

"And if this is his breakout season, a year in which he catches 60-70 balls, it will have come at an opportune time. Pathon is eligible for unrestricted free agency next spring and Indianapolis probably won't be able to afford his asking price."

It's worth noting that quarterback Peyton Manning told reporters he believes in Pathon earlier this week. "I could tell he is more confident out there in his fourth year," Manning explained. "And he should be. Jerome got a lot of repetitions this training camp and he was healthy the entire training camp. Those things make a difference. I just saw a different-looking Jerome. That gave me a lot of confidence going to him. ..."

That said, rookie Reggie Wayne, who missed all four preseason games and the first game of the regular season, is ready to put his speed to use for the Indianapolis Colts. "I'm ready, I'm ready to go," said Wayne, a first-round draft pick by Indianapolis. "I'm ready to explode right now. I can't wait to help the guys. I want to play."

Wayne's NFL debut has been delayed by a high ankle sprain. He might have been able to play last week, but the league postponed all games because of terrorist attacks in New York and Washington. Now, after another week of rest, Wayne is healthy, participating in all the drills and eager to contribute.

The question is, will he make an impact for the Colts when he plays on Sunday against Buffalo?

"He gives you different options," Manning said. "We can use four wide receivers now if we want to. One of Reggie's biggest strengths is route-running and his hands. He can play in the slot, he can play outside, he can free up [Harrison] and [Pathon] more."

Which is precisely what Wayne intends to do against the Bills. He admits he may not know everything in the offense, but he believes he can play at a high level.

"I don't know how much I'll play," he said. "But whatever my role is out there, I'll be ready."

RB: Edgerrin James, Dominic Rhodes

FB: Jim Finn, Wes Ours

WR: Marvin Harrison, Jerome Pathon, Reggie Wayne, Terrence Wilkins, Trevor Insley, Drew Haddad

TE: Ken Dilger, Marcus Pollard, Joe Dean Davenport, Justin Snow

PK: Mike Vanderjagt

Of course, some observers believe that point might be moot. According to Bart Hubbuch of the Florida Times-Union, Soward was also arrested in Orlando in July for disorderly conduct and faces a court date on that charge. The Jaguars aren't likely to cut Soward this year because of the salary cap, but don't be surprised if the club releases him in the offseason. ...

Just for the record: Alcohol was the drug behind Soward's most recent violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy. Soward's father, Rodney Soward, told the San Bernardino County Sun, "I will say this: I know for a fact that R. Jay has not smoked any marijuana, and he has not used any cocaine or any drugs like that. The [most recent] accusation is based on alcohol. I just don't know what the status of the accusations are, whether they're substantial or an error. If you don't see him play after the fourth game, then you'll know about the second suspension."

One last note on Soward: If Jacksonville cuts the former first-round draft pick this year, they would incur an immediate $1.6M cap hit. ...

Hubbuch also wrote this week, "It was feared that tight end Kyle Brady's career might be in jeopardy after he developed a staph infection in his knee in the preseason, but the veteran from Penn State recovered quickly and played the entire game against Pittsburgh.

"Brady is one example of the Jaguars' few intelligent moves in free agency after coming from the New York Jets three seasons ago. In addition to being a skilled blocker, the 6-6, 276-pounder is a huge receiving target for quarterback Mark Brunell.

"Brady showed his pass-catching skills last season posting a career-high 64 receptions and he flashed them again in the opener by hauling in three passes for 39 yards. Brady has the speed and size to get open against most linebackers, and he is especially dangerous against zone defenses in the middle of the field. This is where Brunell looks for him most often.

"Brady also will get more attention from Brunell inside the 20-yard line, although the red zone appears to be more the specialty of backup tight end Damon Jones."

One last note. ... Hubbuch cites a lack of an experienced fullback and cohesiveness along the offensive line as reasons head coach Tom Coughlin won't use Fred Taylor as his first option when the Jags have the ball inside the five-yard line. ... It's worth noting that Brunell tossed a play-action touchdown pass to tight end Jones on first down from the 1-yard line against the Steelers two weeks ago and Hubbuch believes we'll see that approach on a regular basis with Jones being just one of several big receiving targets on the Jaguars' roster. ...

Passing at the goal line makes even more sense because straight-ahead power running isn't Taylor's style, although the Jaguars could go to burly backup Stacey Mack in those situations.

RB: Fred Taylor, Stacey Mack, Frank Moreau, Elvis Joseph

FB: Patrick Washington

WR: Jimmy Smith, Keenan McCardell, Sean Dawkins, Alvis Whitted, Damon Gibson, Randal Williams

TE: Kyle Brady, Damon Jones

PK: Mike Hollis, Jim Tarle

"But in new coach Dick Vermeil's and offensive coordinator Al Saunders' scheme, Alexander is just another small part of the whole. The system, which features a lot of four- and five-route packages, asks Alexander to run shorter routes, work more in the middle of the field and see the ball less frequently. It's difficult to condemn this match after just one game, but zero catches for Alexander in the opener against Oakland was inexcusable."

According to published reports, the Chiefs are interested in acquiring Kevin Johnson from Cleveland. The teams have been in contact, but no deal has been made as of yet. The desire to trade for Johnson seems to lend credence to Pompei's theory. ...

It's worth noting, however, that talks with Cleveland stalled when the Browns asked for a third-round pick in exchange for Johnson and the Chiefs countered by offering a fifth.

"If I was convinced he could come in and make a winning contribution to us right off the bat, then Carl (Peterson) and I would discuss it and come up with the best decision," Vermeil said. "We've all been burned on trading for somebody else's player. Then you find out why they were up for trade after you get 'em.

"I'm not against giving a third-round pick if he plays like a third-round pick. When he was drafted, he had the talent to perform. He was the 32nd player drafted. He had the talent to perform at a higher level than he's playing at now. But he hasn't for one reason or another."

For the record. ... Alexander, who tested new shoes during the session, left Monday's practice early and Vermeil characterized his status for Sunday's game against Seattle as "doubtful" on Tuesday. It wouldn't surprise me to see the Chiefs rest Alexander until he's able to practice and play without pain, which sitting him this weekend.

The loss of Alexander would leave the Chiefs perilously thin at an already weak position. Alexander would be replaced by Chris Thomas, who also isn't 100 percent because of lingering soreness in his calf muscle. Thomas knows the offense well, so he will be where quarterback Trent Green expects him to be. Whether Thomas, a veteran journeyman, can shuck coverage is another matter.

One last note out of Chiefs' headquarters this week: According to the Kansas City Star, Sylvester Morris, who tore his ACL on June 22, is jogging again. The Chiefs are reportedly holding out hope that Morris can return late in the season, but I wouldn't bet the ranch on it. ...

RB: Priest Holmes, Mike Cloud, Derrick Blaylock

FB: Tony Richardson, Jermaine Williams

WR: Derrick Alexander, Marvin Minnis, Chris Thomas, Larry Parker, Dante Hall

TE: Tony Gonzalez, Jason Dunn, Mikhael Ricks

PK: Todd Peterson

Nonetheless, head coach Dave Wannstedt expects McKnight to play Sunday against the Raiders.

"He'll play this week," said Wannstedt, noting that receiver Oronde Gadsden had the same injury last season and didn't miss any playing time. "He wears gloves, anyway, so it shouldn't be a factor."

McKnight's injury gave Dedric Ward added repetitions Monday. Ward, who had 54 catches for 801 yards last season with the New York Jets, missed the preseason and the opener with a stress fracture in his left foot. He is expected to play against the Raiders.

However, Ward will serve as the team's fourth receiver at best, so Fantasy owners should probably lay off the former Jet for now.

One last note out of Miami. ... Cade McNown is day to day with an elbow injury. It is doubtful he will see much playing time this year unless injuries become a factor at QB for the Dolphins.

RB: Lamar Smith, J.J. Johnson, Travis Minor

FB: Rob Konrad, Deon Dyer

WR: Oronde Gadsden, James McKnight, Chris Chambers, Dedric Ward, Jeff Ogden

TE: Hunter Goodwin, Jed Weaver, Ed Perry

PK: Olindo Mare

"Moss normally plays the outside. Yet, during the preseason and on a couple of occasions against Carolina, he slide over to the slot, an inside wide receiver's position, normally played by Cris Carter.

"Vikings offensive coordinator Sherman Lewis said Moss will, for the most part, remain on the outside because of his great size and speed. Still, Lewis likes having options with his top threat."

Williamson went on to report that some NFL observers thought 33-year old Jake Reed had little to left to contribute as a NFL receiver. Reed has been slowed by injuries the past two seasons and hasn't had a 1,000-yard receiving season since 1997.

But head coach Dennis Green believes Reed still has plenty to offer as a No. 3 receiver behind Moss and Carter. That's why Green was thrilled that Reed re-signed with the Vikings after a one-season stint in New Orleans.

In fact, this seems like the perfect place for Reed. He works very well with Carter and Moss. All three players are in sync during their routes. Reed is still a strong possession receiver, finds ways to get open and is capable of taking pressure off the Vikings' two star receivers. In this system, Reed still appears to be an effective player in a reserve role.

Carter, who sustained a contusion to his right thigh against the Panthers, returned to practice on Monday and will be ready to go for the team's game against the Bears this Sunday.

One last note from Williamson: "Rookie running back Michael Bennett has spent much of his film-study time watching former Vikings tailback Robert Smith -- the retired speedster whom Bennett was chosen in the first round to replace.

"Before he took over for Heisman Trophy winner Ron Dayne at Wisconsin last year, Bennett did the same thing by watching tape of the lumbering Dayne. But he admits he has gotten more out of watching Smith.

"That's because Smith is a similar player to Bennett and the two approach the game the same way. Basically, when watching Smith, Bennett saw himself playing with the Vikings offense. Watching Smith play made Bennett realize that picking up blitzes and running precise routes on screen plays was essential to be a tailback in Minnesota's attack."

RB: Michael Bennett, Doug Chapman, Travis Prentice

FB: Jimmy Kleinsasser, Harold Morrow, Matt Snider

WR: Randy Moss, Cris Carter, Jake Reed, Chris Walsh, Troy Walters, Nate Jacquet

TE: Byron Chamberlain, Andrew Jordan, Matt Cercone

PK: Gary Anderson

Glenn, however, will be a risky pickup up at best. After missing training camp and early regular season games, it is questionable how effective he might be this year.

Since most of us weren't paying attention to football last weekend, I'll reprint the following update which was first published in the FlashUpdate last Saturday:

According to Associated Press sports writer Howard Ulman, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick didn't act like a coach who was getting back one of the best receivers in team history.

Drew Bledsoe spoke in a monotone about how he'll play with whichever players are available.

Don't expect a "Welcome Back" banner when Terry Glenn returns to the New England Patriots locker room after serving a four-game NFL suspension for violating its substance-abuse policy.

Glenn's big victory came Wednesday when arbitrator Richard Bloch, who held a 13-hour hearing at Foxboro Stadium the previous Thursday, overturned the team's decision to put him on the reserve-left camp list, which would have made him inactive for the full season.

"I wasn't surprised or disappointed by that decision," said Belichick, who put Glenn on the list Aug. 15, the 12th day after he left camp without permission after learning of the NFL action.

"We had a situation in training camp and I felt that I followed the rules that were in place at the time," Belichick said Thursday. "Now is a different point in time. We'll certainly abide by it and comply with it."

The four-game suspension would prevent Glenn from practicing or playing with the team until Oct. 1, the Monday after the home game against Indianapolis. Belichick didn't know how Thursday's NFL decision not to play Sunday would affect that.

Asked if he would welcome Glenn back, Belichick was reluctant to comment for fear of interfering with other pending issues. Still to be determined is how much of his signing bonus Glenn will receive. And Belichick could be punished for speaking publicly about details of Glenn's case following the NFL suspension.

"It's not a personal thing at all," Belichick said. "There's still other things pending and I really don't want to be on the record."

He said that in previous cases in which players missed a substantial amount of time, the NFL granted roster exemptions. But Belichick said the team hadn't requested one and he didn't know how the roster issue would be resolved.

Bledsoe has thrown 21 touchdown passes to Glenn. Only Ben Coates, with 45, has caught more from him.

But Bledsoe has praised his receiving corps of Troy Brown, Bert Emanuel, David Patten, Charles Johnson and Torrance Small. The addition of Glenn, fourth in career catches in club history, would force Belichick to remove a player -- not necessarily a wide receiver -- from the roster.

"That's something that's down the road," Belichick said. "The rules prohibit Terry from being here and we'll comply with those rules. So until that situation comes a lot closer, really, nothing's changed."

Glenn hasn't been a regular participant in the team's off-season workout program in Foxboro, preferring to do his conditioning work at home in Columbus, Ohio. He's often a quiet, aloof figure in a locker room that has developed a closer atmosphere this season.

"We'll cross that bridge when we come to it," Bledsoe said of Glenn's effect on team chemistry. "But, for now, we're just playing with the guys that are here.

"If and when Terry becomes one of those guys and shows then he can make an impact for us on the field, he'll be one of those guys that I'm playing with."

Maybe. ...

According to ESPN insider Len Pasquarelli, nobody was terribly upset when the club suspended Glenn last month and they appear lukewarm to his return. Said one veteran offensive player: "He basically abandoned us this summer, you know? There are a lot of guys who get (upset) around here at some of the way things are done, but that doesn't mean you just walk out on your teammates, no matter what your personal agenda might be."

There also is the delicate matter of Glenn's signing bonus, a situation that might only be resolved in a court of law. The Patriots stopped making installment payments on the bonus and there is very specific language, team vice president Andy Wasynczuk reminded, that permits the club to withhold signing bonus installments and even seek to recover some of the money already paid. Glenn and agent Jim Gould have made it clear they want the money and the battle could be even more nasty than the one waged over whether the wide out should have been allowed to return after he serves his four-game NFL suspension for a repeat violation of the league's substance abuse policy.

Also of interest. ...

According to Michael Felger of the Boston Herald, second-year running back J.R. Redmond was supposed to the Pats' top back this year, but he was beat out by veteran Antowain Smith in training camp. While Smith and Redmond wound up getting a fairly even number of snaps in the season opener against the Bengals, Smith got 12 carries to Redmond's three.

Coaches reportedly believe Redmond is the team's best back at blitz pick-up and that he offers Bledsoe a viable option in the passing game. However, they currently see Smith as better between-the-tackles runner, even though he was anything but impressive in Cincinnati two weeks ago.

RB: Antowain Smith, J.R. Redmond, Kevin Faulk

FB: Marc Edwards, Patrick Pass

WR: Bert Emanuel, Troy Brown, David Patten, Torrance Small, Charles Johnson

TE: Rod Rutledge, Jermaine Wiggins

PK: Adam Vinatieri

Brian Allee-Walsh of the New Orleans Times-Picayune wrote earlier this week that, "Saints coach Jim Haslett on Saturday said he scrapped plans to practice against the Pittsburgh Steelers next week when a number of his players rebuffed the idea.

"The Saints would have flown Monday to Pittsburgh on a chartered Delta flight and worked against the Steelers on Tuesday through Thursday. Each team has an open date next weekend, meaning a break of 21 days.

"With the blessing of owner Tom Benson and general manager Randy Mueller, Haslett initiated the practice plan with Steelers coach Bill Cowher, who readily agreed. Travel, hotel and logistical arrangements were made. But when Haslett broached the plan during a team meeting Friday, a number of players spoke out against it.

"Haslett closed practices to the media Friday and Saturday and closed the locker room to post-practice interviews. On Friday, when asked what he told his team, Haslett said: "I have an obligation as a coach, and I told them that they have an obligation to each other as teammates.

"'You can understand the players' point of view,' Haslett said Saturday. 'A number of players were concerned about leaving their families at this time.

"'It would have been good to work against another team and get the hitting in, but we'll be able to practice here next week. We'll be all right.'"

Albert Connell, who was not in the starting lineup in Week 1 due to a hamstring injury, is still less than 100 percent. ... But with the extra week off and a bye in Week 3, Connell will have the opportunity to get healthy by the time the Saints play their next game. ... Even though the injury limited Connell to fewer reps that starters Joe Horn and Willie Jackson, Haslett told reporters, "[Connell] probably did better than all the receivers. He blocked guys. He made some great catches. He didn't get as many plays as the other two, just because he really isn't 100 percent yet."

"It was an unbelievable effort," said fullback Greg Comella. "One guy told me he had been working for 20 hours straight and that he lost his brother. It was worse than anything on TV."

The players were ferried from Jersey City to Manhattan in shifts by New York City Police boats starting around 1 p.m.

The players had brought supplies for the rescue workers to a staging area in Jersey City, when they decided to see if they could go to the financial district and lend moral support.

"The guys didn't know if it was the right thing to do," said Pat Hanlon, the team's vice president of communications. "But they saw that what they did carries weight. At the end of the day, they felt like they'd done something."

The players were allowed to go almost right up to the rubble of the twin towers, Hanlon said.

"Everybody all week long who has seen the destruction firsthand has said it's surreal," Hanlon said. "It is. To anybody who has been in the financial district, it's incomprehensible what it looks a like now."

Hanlon said rescue workers seemed to enjoy the visit from the defending NFC champions, who lost 31-20 in their season opener on Monday night in Denver.

The next morning hijackers rammed two jetliners into the World Trade Center, bringing down both towers.

Media who cover the team were not allowed to accompany the players to the site, so Hanlon recounted a lighthearted conversation wide receiver Joe Jurevicius and quarterback Kerry Collins had with a firefighter.

"You cost me money in my fantasy league," the firefighter said. "You catch any one of those passes Collins threw to you Monday night, I win."

"Not his fault," Collins said. "I should have thrown it farther out there."

"You're right!" the firefighter said good-naturedly. "You should have!"

Other notes of interest. ... Rookie place-kicker Owen Pochman looked good on kickoffs in the opener and team officials would like to keep both him and future Hall of Famer Morten Andersen on the roster all season. That could become difficult if injuries elsewhere require personnel adjustments, but Pochman is too talented to let go. ... Andersen, 41, is playing under a one-year contract and Pochman could be the kicker of the near future. He tried a 65-yard field goal into the wind against the Broncos. The hold was bad, and he was far wide to the right, but the attempt had plenty of distance. ...

And finally. ... Wide receiver Ike Hilliard practiced Monday and could return to action this Sunday, but you probably shouldn't bet on it. ... "He's making progress," head coach Jim Fassel said. "It's iffy if he makes it this week." The coach went on to say Hilliard's foot is "going to probably be sore all season," but the hope is that Hilliard can play through the discomfort and contribute at some point - like early in October.

RB: Tiki Barber, Ron Dayne, Damon Washington

FB: Greg Comella, Anthony Green

WR: Amani Toomer, Joe Jurevicius, Ron Dixon, Ike Hilliard, Thabiti Davis, Pat Woodcock

TE: Howard Cross, Dan Campbell, Marcellus Rivers

PK: Morten Andersen, Owen Pochman

"How about some of those famed West Coast crossing routes to the wide outs? In the first game, the wide receivers had only two catches, which is inexcusable. It also would be nice to see the team take some shots downfield, especially because coach Herman Edwards says he wants to incorporate a vertical aspect to the passing attack."

RB: Curtis Martin, Lamont Jordan, Chad Morton

FB: Richie Anderson, Jerald Sowell

WR: Wayne Chrebet, Laveranues Coles, Matthew Hatchette, Windrell Hayes, Kevin Swayne, Santana Moss

TE: Anthony Becht, James Dearth

PK: John Hall

"Wide receivers Tim Brown and Jerry Rice combined for 16 receptions in Oakland's first game. The other three receivers caught only one. Brown and Rice are dependable, productive and sure handed. Breakaway threats they are not. That is a role reserved for James Jett, Jerry Porter or Marcus Knight.

"Look for the Raiders to try to incorporate that trio into the game plan more in coming games as a means of preventing teams from investing too much manpower on Brown and Rice. If not, teams will continue to use single coverage on Brown and Rice, crowd the line of scrimmage and key on stopping the run and forcing quarterback Rich Gannon to make quick decisions."

Corkran also noted that Rice showed he could still get open and catch everything thrown his way in the regular season opener against the Chiefs. ... That gives Gannon two legitimate first-look options on critical downs. Breakaway speed is the one thing Rice no longer possesses. He might get open and catch every ball but he won't gain as many yards after the catch as he did during his prime.

Rice's presence also takes off pressure from go-to guy Brown and prevents defenses from keying on the former Notre Dame in critical situations. Rice also brings strong leadership and blocking skills, something the Raiders lacked from receivers other than Brown in recent years.

One last note here: Porter, who was recovering from a separated shoulder, was close to playing against Kansas City two weeks ago. Keep an eye on this week's Late-Breaking Updates to find out more on his status for this week's game against the Dolphins.

RB: Tyrone Wheatley, Charlie Garner, Randy Jordan, Terry Kirby

FB: Jon Ritchie, Zack Crockett

WR: Tim Brown, Jerry Rice, Jerry Porter, James Jett, David Dunn, Marcus Knight

TE: Roland Williams, Mondriel Fulcher, Jeremy Brigham

PK: Sebastian Janikowski

McNabb did little outside the pocket in the first half of the Rams' 20-17 victory over the Eagles but went back to his freelancing ways in the second half as the Eagles rallied to tie the game. McNabb is a much better player outside the pocket -- at least for now -- so he needs to be able to do his damage from there.

The bottom line says opposing defenses will almost certainly try to keep McNabb inside this season since he obviously isn't as comfortable doing so.

However, as Pasquarelli pointed out, trying to contain McNabb is a far cry from actually accomplishing that mission. ...

Although James Thrash got the bulk of the preseason hype, those who follow the team closely say second-year man Todd Pinkston looked like the team's best receiver all through training camp and in the preseason.

And that still seems to be the case as the regular season gets underway.

Pinkston has good speed and decent hands and has recently shown a more physical side that some questioned during his rookie season. The bottom line here says Pinkston's failure to add significant muscle mass to his slender, 6-3, 170-pound frame over the offseason has been offset by the fact he worked closely with cornerback Troy Vincent on getting off the line of scrimmage better. ...

Mark Eckel of the Trenton Times reported late last week that No. 1 draft pick Freddie Mitchell had a torn hamstring, but head coach Andy Reid wasn't willing to rule the youngster out during a press conference Monday afternoon.

In fact, Reid seemed to go out of his way to note Mitchell's injury wasn't a tear. ... "During one-on-one drills [Mitchell] got thrown in a weird position and it stretched, it didn't tear, there was a stretch in there that took place," the coach explained. "We knew it was a weird position to be in and we looked at it on film and he came back the next play and tried to go on it and couldn't."

Asked whether (No. 5 receiver) Gari Scott will be able to play this week, the coach said: "He does not have to be up. We'll see how Mitchell does during this week, and see how he recovers. Gari is not 100 percent back. He hasn't had any contact on it. We have to get him a few bangs in there where he can test it out before that. We'll try to that that without making it live. We'll try to do it in situations where it's a bit more controlled."

Asked how close Scott, Reid said, "I think he's close. I would like to see it before we activate him."

If neither man is ready to go this Sunday, the Eagles might promote a receiver off their practice squad.

RB: Duce Staley, Correll Buckhalter, Brian Mitchell

FB: Cecil Martin, Jamie Reader

WR: James Thrash, Todd Pinkston, Na Brown, Freddie Mitchell, Gari Scott, Dameane Douglas

TE: Chad Lewis, Jeff Thomason, Tony Stewart, Mike Bartrum

PK: David Akers

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Gerry Dulac wrote this week, "the Steelers were not very healthy at several positions -- most notably wide receiver -- heading into Week 2. But with the postponement, and a bye this week, the team has plenty of time to get healthy for its next game -- Sept. 30 in Buffalo.

"Both starting receivers, Hines Ward (sprained ankle) and Plaxico Burress (shoulder sprain), are ailing, and No. 5 receiver Will Blackwell is finished for the season with a torn ACL. Blackwell was placed on injured reserve, leaving the team with just two healthy receivers -- No. 3 Bobby Shaw and No. 4 Troy Edwards.

"That has made the team to activate wide receiver Tim Baker, a rookie free agent, and consider adding another, possibly second-year wide out Demetrius Brown, from the practice squad. To replace Baker, the team signed Lenzie Jackson, a third-year receiver from Arizona State, to the practice squad.

"Burress thought he could have played against the Browns in Week 2, but his shoulder is such that he will have a difficult time with range of motion. The loss of Burress would be a big concern because, despite his lack of production, teams still pay a lot of attention to him because of his size.

"That creates more room for Ward, the team's top receiver the past two seasons. Ward sprained his ankle when he landed wrong after making a 34-yard catch against the Jaguars and did not practice last week. But he will be fine.

"Burress' injury would have meant more action for Edwards -- another player who has trouble holding on to the ball. It would be a good opportunity for Edwards because his playing time has been reduced as the fourth receiver. ...

"The move to promote Baker was a bit surprising because Brown has good size, (6-3, 219) and the coaches like the way he catches the ball. He probably would have survived the final cut and made the 53-man roster if Blackwell didn't also returns kickoffs. But Baker, who is tall (6-4, 215) and sure handed, was a good special teams player in training camp.

"However, do not be surprised if the team eventually moves Jackson to the regular roster. The Steelers like the way he runs routes and has enough speed to get deep, something the other receivers, with the exception of slot man Bobby Shaw, just don't seem to be able to do."

And because of that, Warner appears ready for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

"It's still not completely healed yet, but I'm hoping that it will be by Sunday," Warner said Monday before the Rams practiced for the first time in four days. "It's still a little sore, but it feels much better than it did last week. I'm sure it will definitely benefit" from the time off.

Warner suffered the sprain at Philadelphia when his thumb got caught and bent back on an Eagles pass rusher. On the play, which occurred just after the two-minute warning in the fourth quarter, Warner threw an incomplete pass to Isaac Bruce.

X-rays taken the next day revealed no fracture, but coach Mike Martz made it sound as if Warner might miss significant practice time leading up to last Sunday's home opener against the Falcons.

That all changed after the terrorist attacks. The Rams practiced Wednesday, and Warner participated. On Thursday, the NFL called off all Week 2 games, which kept the players off the field until now.

Once he did hit the field again Monday afternoon, Warner looked sharp while working out with the first team. The thumb was taped, but that didn't appear to bother him. "He threw the ball fine," Rams head trainer Jim Anderson said.

One other item out of St. Louis this week. ... If Ernie Conwell went undrafted in your league, grab him now! The former University of Washington star pulled in five passes (for 49 yards and a touchdown) against the Eagles. Last year, Rams tight ends combined for only 21 receptions - in Week 1 alone this year, they caught seven passes.

RB: Marshall Faulk, Trung Canidate, Robert Holcombe

FB: James Hodgins, Justin Watson

WR: Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Az-Zahir Hakim, Ricky Proehl, Yo Murphy, Aveion Cason

TE: Ernie Conwell, Brandon Manumaleuna, Jeff Robinson

PK: Jeff Wilkins

Tomlinson has a reputation as a workhorse, but that was a bit over the top and more than one observer has stated he had no business running the ball so late in a rout.

However, Tomlinson came out of the game "a little sore," nothing more. ...

It's easy to tell that Tomlinson is just now getting his football legs after a month-long holdout. There's a total difference in this offense with him in the backfield. He's fully capable of finding something when there's nothing available. Tomlinson appears to be one of those backs that can make an offensive line look good. ...

Canepa also pointed out that fullback Fred McCrary's ability to block and catch the ball is a huge plus. With the bye, Tomlinson may be briefed to the point where he doesn't have to sit on passing downs. ...

Tight end Freddie Jones has fully recovered from the hernia surgery that sidelined him for the better part of August, and the big fella is reportedly blocking and running as well as he ever has.

And finally. ... Place-kicker Wade Richey, who had a miserable preseason, was a perfect 3-for-3 against the Redskins and most of his kickoffs made it to the goal line.

RB: LaDainian Tomlinson, Terrell Fletcher, Ronney Jenkins

FB: Fred McCrary, Derrick Harris

WR: Curtis Conway, Jeff Graham, Tim Dwight, Reggie Jones, Trevor Gaylor

TE: Freddie Jones, Steve Heiden

PK: Wade Richey

Eventually, the younger, more explosive Barlow might be given that chance to see extended playing time and get into a rhythm. But for now, the team likes Hearst because he knows the offense so well and because he is so tough. He won't miss a blocking assignment or be out of position. And he is good at fighting for the extra yard to get first downs on both runs and catches.

In the opener against the Falcons, Hearst was in on 51 snaps while Barlow was on the field for 19 plays. ... In case you missed it last week, Paul Smith was the odd man out at tailback in Week 1. In fact, Smith spent the opener on the inactive list. ...

Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat wrote this week that place-kicker Jose Cortez has come a long way since he first started playing football as a high school senior in his native El Salvador. ... He kicked two seasons at Los Angeles Valley College before earning a scholarship to Oregon State, where he was an honorable-mention All-Pac-10 selection as a junior and made three field goals of 50 yards or longer as a senior.

Maiocco went on to note, "Cortez signed with the Cleveland Browns in the spring of 1999 but was released before he got a chance to attend training camp. He went to the San Diego Chargers but had no chance of beating out established veteran John Carney.

"In December 1999, he was signed by the New York Giants because of his leg strength to handle kickoff chores. He kicked off three times and was released.

"Last year, he signed again with the Chargers and was allocated to the Amsterdam Admirals of NFL Europe. He went through Chargers training camp and although he was unable to beat out Carney, who now kicks for the New Orleans Saints, he learned some valuable lessons along the way.

"'He was teaching me a lot,' Cortez said. 'He was always telling me to relax and take my time. Sometimes I try to go too fast. That's one of the things he told me. I needed to stay focused, keep my head down, relax and take my time.'

"All that advice came in handy this spring when Cortez got off to a rough start with the Los Angeles Xtreme of the XFL. He missed some field goals early in the season when people were actually watching the nationally televised games. Teammate Tommy Maddox, the quarterback, was shown in one memorable display expressing disgust with Cortez's erratic kicking.

"Those who stopped following he XFL after the first couple weeks might have found it difficult to believe that Cortez lasted the entire season. He made 20 of 25 field goals for the season. He kicked four field goals in the Xtreme's victory in the Million Dollar Game.

"The XFL is history. And when Cortez went to training camp this summer with the 49ers, he said his career was going to be history if he didn't win the job.

"'I've been through hard times and this was going to be my last year if I don't make it,' said Cortez, who returned to Corvallis, Ore., between kicking jobs and got a job as a roofer. He is a resident of the United States.

"'I made a team so I'm going to keep doing it,' he added. 'I was just glad to have a chance here to compete for the job. I took advantage of that.'

"'He never lost his job,' Niners head coach Steve Mariucci said. 'He was there and he was consistent, and his teammates are going to become more confident in him.'

"They have reason to be confident now. Cortez was 3-for-3 in his first game with the 49ers. His 20-yard field goal at the end of regulation forced overtime, and he kicked a 24-yarder to provide the winning points in a 16-13 victory over the Falcons."

J.J. Stokes missed Monday's practice with a bruised hamstring and the former UCLA star is considered questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams. If Stokes can't play, Tai Streets would take over as the starter opposite Terrell Owens.

A few final notes. ... Reserve running back Jonas Lewis suffered a groin pull during in the opener and is expected to miss at least one game because of the injury. ... Rookie tight end Eric Johnson looked great as a pass receiver in his NFL debut. The Yale alum may be one of the steals of the draft, but the converted receiver still needs to develop as a run-blocker. Veteran starter Greg Clark is trying to return from hamstring surgery, but the latest word out of team headquarters says the former Stanford star won't be a factor until next month at the earliest. ...

First the team released veteran Rick Mirer for less-experienced Kevin Daft. Now the 49ers have released Daft and made Ricky Ray their third quarterback.

Ray has zero experience.

The undrafted college unknown from nearby Sacramento State was used as just a "camp arm" this summer, but he comes cheap and he knows the offense. The 49ers are praying they don't get the top two guys hurt.

RB: Garrison Hearst, Kevan Barlow, Paul Smith, Jonas Lewis

FB: Fred Beasley, Terry Jackson

WR: Terrell Owens, J.J. Stokes, Tai Streets, Cedrick Wilson, Vinny Sutherland

TE: Justin Swift, Eric Johnson, Brian Jennings, Greg Clark

PK: Jose Cortez

Rodriguez can play mix-and-match because he expects every player to know every other player's role. He calls them out in the special teams meetings and as punter Jeff Feagles says, "You'd better know it."

Farnsworth also noted that it's easy to forget that Charlie Rogers is only in his third NFL season, because he already has set or tied 13 club records returning punts and kickoffs -- career, season and single game -- and is closing in on five more. As productive as he is running back kicks the way Rodriguez draws them up, Rogers is even more dangerous when he improvises.

Like in the opener.

Rogers' 49-yard kickoff return that set up the game-winning field goal by Lindell was supposed to go to the right. But when he saw a defender flash across the player who was supposed to be his lead blocker, the diminutive (5-9, 177-pound) speedster out of Georgia Tech veered to his left and was gone up the sideline. He displayed similar instincts and elusiveness on his longest returns last season -- 81-yard kickoff returns against the Bills and Colts.

Because of these skills, Rogers is a threat to break a long one every time he touches the ball.

One last note out of Seattle. ... The extra -- and unexpected -- week off also should benefit first-round draft choice Koren Robinson. The rookie has been trying to practice himself into shape after missing considerable time this spring and summer with hamstring problems. He needed a rest physically -- not to mention a mental break.

RB: Ricky Watters, Shaun Alexander, Charlie Rogers

FB: Mack Strong, Heath Evans

WR: Darrell Jackson, Koren Robinson, James Williams, Bobby Engram, Alex Bannister, Fabian Bownes

TE: Christian Fauria, Itula Mili, Russell Stewart

PK: Rian Lindell

Wouldn't you know it. ... I went out of my way to take Keyshawn Johnson to task last week, ripping him for what I characterized as a selfish, "me-first" attitude. It felt really good.

Right up until the former USC star announced that he's donating a week's pay to the Red Cross

"It's not hurting me. What the hell is [money] going to do for me?" said Johnson, who enters the second season of an eight-year, $56 million contract that pays him approximately $31,250 per game.

"Money isn't that important. There are lives that are much more important."

Memo to subscribers: Somebody kick me in the a** next time I badmouth this guy. ...

"McNair has been a spectator during practices since injuring his right shoulder in the season-opening loss to the Dolphins. He hasn't thrown a football in eight days and [head coach] Jeff Fisher yesterday said McNair's status for Sunday's game at Jacksonville is unclear.

"McNair would not have played last Sunday against the Bengals if the game hadn't been postponed.

"'I think we have to approach it the same way we did last week. If he is not able to throw at least in the Friday practice it is unlikely he will be able to go,' Fisher said. 'I think if he can't throw before Friday the decision we have to make is whether or not he can be the No. 2 or the 3 quarterback.'

"McNair was undergoing treatment after Monday's practice and wasn't in the locker room to speak to reporters. When contacted later that night, McNair said the shoulder has improved from last week when he couldn't even lift his right arm, but he's still not ready to take the field.

"Team officials have called the injury a contusion or bruise.

"'The pain has settled down a little bit and right now the big thing is to try and keep the swelling down. Hopefully it will get better and I can throw a little bit, but it is going to take a little time,' McNair said.

"'The swelling is something you really don't have any control over. You just have to keep doing treatment and continue to work on your strength. It is getting better, it is making progress, but that's not to say I am ready.'

"McNair said he has swelling on the top of his shoulder and some swelling in the front. He has regularly iced the shoulder down in an attempt to reduce the swelling. McNair had two MRIs in the past week, and Fisher said the second one showed improvement.

"The Titans [were off Tuesday and return to practice Wednesday]. Since they have an open date following Sunday's game at Jacksonville and won't play again until Oct. 7 at Baltimore, McNair would have an extra week if he's not pressed into duty this week.

"'That enters my mind, but I am always anxious to go out there,' McNair said. 'If it feels good I can throw, if it doesn't I am not going to rush it.'

"McNair's shoulder was injured when Dolphins tackle Jermaine Haley drove him into the ground after he released a touchdown pass in the third quarter of the Sept. 9 game.

"McNair had surgery on the shoulder in the offseason to flush out an infection, but McNair and Fisher said the current swelling is in no way related to that surgery.

"McNair injured his left shoulder in last season's AFC playoff loss to the Ravens. He was knocked out of the Chiefs game last September with bruised sternum, though he came off the bench the next week to rally the Titans to victory against the Steelers.

"In February 2000, he had surgery to remove a bone spur and a cyst from his toe. He missed five games during the 1999 season with a ruptured disc in his lower back. Prior to that he battled a severe case of turf toe during parts of at least two seasons.

"If McNair can't play, backup Neil O'Donnell will start. O'Donnell guided the Titans to a 20-19 victory at Jacksonville while filling in for McNair during the 1999 season.

"'I am ready,' O'Donnell said. 'If my number is called and they want me to play, I'll play.'

I'll keep a close eye on McNair's progress throughout the weekend; watch this week's Late-Breaking Updates for pertinent info. ...

RB: Eddie George, Skip Hicks, Mike Green

HB: Frank Wycheck, Mike Leach

WR: Derrick Mason, Kevin Dyson, Chris Sanders, Justin McCareins, Chris Coleman, Eddie Berlin, Drew Bennett

TE: Erron Kinney, Shad Meier

PK: Joe Nedney

But make no mistake about it: George is on a short leash; he can't mishandle snaps from center and he can't throw bad interceptions. If he does, George will be yanked again in favor of Tony Banks.

The problem with Banks is, he isn't ready to start. He knows it, the coaches know it, and teammates know it. ESPN insider Len Pasquarelli wrote last Friday that Banks is far from familiar with the team's playbook. In fact, Banks had considerable trouble calling some of the plays sent in over the headset after taking over for George in San Diego and on at least one occasion, Banks was sufficiently confused that tight end Stephen Alexander had to interpret the verbiage for him and, in essence, call the play and break the huddle.

Hopefully, that will change. ... As Woody pointed out, George isn't helping his cause by dancing around in the pocket. He needs to hang in there longer. He also needs to start hitting some deep passes, but he needs some help from his receivers in that as well. Teams are going to continue to stop the run and challenge George and the wide receivers to beat them and until they do, no one is going to back off the line. ...

Also according to Woody, the question of the season is this: Is Stephen Davis' difficulty in handling the ball and gaining yards the result of a lack of preparation during the offseason or merely bad luck in the first game? Time will tell. Schottenheimer likes to have one primary back, but if Davis continues to struggle, Marty is liable to give Ki-Jana Carter some reps in coming weeks.

The Washington Post reported last week that Alexander suffered an avulsion fracture (bone chip) in the middle finger of his right hand. However, the injury isn't expected cost veteran tight end any playing time. ... Schottenheimer gave Michael Westbrook some time off last week to rest his surgically-rebuilt knee, but the coach insisted the move was simply a precaution and the former first-round draft pick is expected to be in the starting lineup as usual when the Skins take on the Packers Monday night.

RB: Stephen Davis, Ki-Jana Carter, Kenny Watson

FB: Donnell Bennett, Bryan Johnson

WR: Michael Westbrook, Rod Gardner, Kevin Lockett, Derrius Thompson, Darnerian McCants, Michael Bates

TE: Stephen Alexander, Walter Rasby, Zeron Flemister

PK: Brett Conway