NFL Media's Desmond Purnell reported Wednesday that Dallas Cowboys middle linebacker Rolando McClainwon't practice until at least Friday as the defense's second-leading tackler goes through concussion protocol.
McClain isn't the only key defender nursing a concussion this week.
Top pass rusher Jeremy Mincey also missed a second consecutive practice on Thursday.
While McClain has been Dallas' most valuable defensive player for stretches of the season, Mincey leads the team in quarterback hurries and sacks.
Rod Marinelli's Cowboys defense is in danger of being shorthanded against the MVP frontrunner and his high-octane offense in the unfriendly confines of Lambeau Field.
Other injuries we're tracking ahead of the Divisional Round of the playoffs:
- Speaking of Aaron Rodgers (calf), he returned to a limited practice on Thursday. "I'm going on Sunday," Rodgers said, "just a matter of how."
- Julius Thomas practiced in full again on Thursday, after explaining that the bye week was a big help for his sprained ankle. The Broncos defense could also get a boost with linebacker Brandon Marshall practicing on a limited basis. A Pro Bowl-caliber player this season, Marshall missed the final two games of the regular season with a mid-foot sprain.
- Battling a calf issue of his own, oft-injured Seahawks tight end Tony Moeaki will be a game-time decision for Saturday versus the Panthers. Outside of Moeaki, Seattle is a healthy team.
- Speedy Carolina wide receiver Philly Brown returned to a limited practice on Thursday, but didn't take contact. If Brown's shoulder doesn't cooperate, the Panthers will likely activate former Jets draft bust Stephen Hill. If you missed the news on Wednesday, Panthers run-stuffer Star Lotulelei will miss the remainder of the playoffs with a fractured foot.
- Along with running back Jonas Gray (ankle), Patriots wide receivers Julian Edelman (concussion) and Brandon LaFell (shoulder, toe) were limited again on Thursday. Nothing is ever certain with a Bill Belichick-coached team, but all three are expected to play versus the Ravens. LaFell confirmed there's no reason to doubt his availability.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast previews every Divisional Round game and breaks down the Manning-Luck matchup. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
