OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Terrell Suggs winced as he put on his undershirt Wednesday, a bad sign for the Baltimore Ravens as they began preparations for the AFC Championship Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Suggs was one of seven Ravens players held out of Wednesday's practice. The Pro Bowl linebacker strained his right shoulder during Saturday's 13-10 divisional-round victory over the Tennessee Titans, and his availability for Sunday's game against the Steelers probably won't be determined until close to kickoff.
Suggs didn't talk to reporters before the practice session and wasn't available afterward. He led the Ravens with eight sacks during the regular season, had two interceptions and a career-high 102 tackles.
If Suggs can't start, he'll be replaced in the starting lineup by Edgar Jones, who also has played tight end and on special teams this season.
"Edgar has done a nice job," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. "He's been physical."
Other Ravens players who missed practice Wednesday: cornerback Samari Rolle (groin), wide receiver Mark Clayton (thigh), defensive tackle Justin Bannan (foot), linebacker Jarret Johnson (calf), fullback Le'Ron McClain (ankle) and wide receiver Derrick Mason (shoulder and knee).
The injuries to Suggs and Rolle are the most pressing concerns. Mason has been bothered by a sore shoulder for weeks, and McClain's injury isn't believed to be serious.
Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press
