Saturday, January 29, 2011

Polamalu, McFadden return to practice for Steelers

Polamalu, McFadden return to practice for Steelers

PITTSBURGH -- Cornerback Bryant McFadden, safety Troy Polamalu and wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders returned to practice Friday for the first time since the Steelers' AFC championship victory.

McFadden strained his abdomen during a win over Baltimore in the divisional round but played Sunday in a diminished role. Sanders, a rookie, has an injured foot. Polamalu has been bothered by an Achilles' tendon injury, but it is not unusual for the All-Pro to sit out midweek practices.

All three -- as well as left tackle Jonathan Scott (ribs) who has not practiced this week -- are listed as probable for the Super Bowl Feb. 6 against Green Bay in Arlington, Texas.

Defensive end Aaron Smith (torn triceps) was limited in practice, as has been the case the past two weeks. Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey (ankle) and special teamer Will Allen (knee) did not participate in any of the three practices this week.

All three are questionable for the Super Bowl, but there are serious doubts if any will be able to play.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

Packers LB Zombo back at practice while Walden rests ankle

Packers LB Zombo back at practice while Walden rests ankle

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- The Green Bay Packers have some questions about their depth at outside linebacker as they get ready for the Super Bowl.

Frank Zombo is back at practice, but Erik Walden sat out Friday and might not return to the practice field until next week, leaving his status in doubt for the Feb. 6 matchup with Pittsburgh.

Zombo is an undrafted free agent who became a starter in the wake of injuries. He has missed the Packers' last six games because of a right knee injury but says he had no pain Friday.

Walden was signed in midseason and has played well. He hurt his ankle in the NFC championship game victory at Chicago on Sunday.

The Packers practice in Green Bay this weekend before traveling to Texas on Monday.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press