Kevin Kolb hasn't practiced since tweaking his knee Saturday, and the Buffalo Bills aren't certain he'll be ready for the preseason opener.
Coach Doug Marrone told reporters Wednesday it's too early to say if the veteran quarterback will face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. In Kolb's absence, rookie EJ Manuel has taken all the first-team work, "with approximately 100 more snaps" at training camp, according to the Bills' official website.
Kolb was excused from Monday's session because of a death in his family, but he's expected to return to the team Thursday, Marrone said. Doctors will examine Kolb's knee before deciding if he's healthy enough to practice Friday.
Both Manuel and Kolb were listed as starting quarterbacks on the Bills' first unofficial depth chart, but the rookie has outplayed the veteran, according to observers. It's especially important for Kolb to get on the field in the preseason. Manuel was drafted by the current regime and will be given every chance to win the job.
Bills general manager Doug Whaley said last week that "(Manuel) has that 'it' factor" and is "going to be the face of our franchise, and it's not too big for him."
As we've stated before, if this duel ends notched in a tie, it's Manuel's job come Week 1.
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