PITTSBURGH — Steelers running back Willie Parker will return to practice today, and coach Mike Tomlin said he is optimistic Parker will play Sunday against the Chargers.
Parker has played only once since spraining his knee Sept. 21 in Philadelphia, running for 70 yards in a victory over the Redskins on Nov. 3 in which he dislocated his shoulder.
“The shoulder popped out briefly during the course of the Redskins game and it popped back into place,” Tomlin said, denying reports Parker had a torn labrum. “Adrenaline or what have you didn’t allow him to recognize it during the course of the game. He came in (last) Tuesday, took a look at it and of course it was very painful.”
The return of Marvel Smith could help the running game. Smith hasn’t played since Oct. 5 because of a back injury, but Tomlin said it’s possible the left tackle will practice this week.
Brady rehabs with Patriots
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Tom Brady is back with his Patriots teammates, laughing and talking with them — and, more important, rehabilitating the injured left knee that ended his season in the very first quarter.
“It’s good to see him around, hanging out, smiling,” defensive end Jarvis Green said. “It looks like he’s in a good mood. I just spoke to him a few times, joked with him, but it looks like he’s OK.”
• The NFL rescinded a $20,000 fine levied against receiver Randy Moss for his comments about officiating after the Patriots’ 18-15 loss at Indianapolis on Nov. 2.
Seahawks release Colbert
RENTON, Wash. — Wide receiver Keary Colbert was released by the Seahawks following a disappointing stint with the team.
Colbert came to Seattle in a trade with the Broncos on Sept. 17. The Seahawks gave up an undisclosed draft pick to acquire him. But Colbert struggled to get involved in the offense, catching only seven passes in seven games with one touchdown.
Footnotes.
The Ravens placed cornerback Chris McAlister (knee) and strong safety Dawan Landry (neck) on injured reserve.
• The Bears terminated safety Terrence Holt’s contract and elevated rookie defensive end Ervin Baldwin from the practice squad.
• The Falcons released receiver and return specialist Adam Jennings and signed defensive end Brandon Miller from the practice squad.
The Associated Press
