News briefs: Colts may be without Pro Bowl safety Sanders again

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts might have to stop New England's strong running game without Bob Sanders.

The Pro Bowl safety missed Friday's practice after his surgically repaired right knee stiffened, the second straight week he has had a setback.

Sanders practiced last Wednesday but returned the next day with a swollen, sore knee that forced him to miss the rest of the week and the Denver game. He could be facing a similar scenario this week since coach Tony Dungy said it was doubtful Sanders would play.

"Stiff, tight, that's what we expected," a dejected Sanders said Friday. "I've just got to get on a schedule where I practice enough that I can play."

Sanders had arthroscopic surgery in September and has missed five straight games since a Week 2 victory over Houston. He hoped to be back two weeks ago, but after running said the knee felt "a little unstable." Last week, Sanders said he felt better and Dungy was optimistic he'd be back for the Denver game. Full story

Chargers DE will return

SAN DIEGO -- The San Diego Chargers got some good news when defensive end Igor Olshansky was able to finish practice.

Olshansky, one of the top run-stuffers on the NFL's No. 2-ranked defense, has missed the past two games because of a knee injury.

The third-year pro reported no substantial swelling in the surgically repaired knee on Friday and was allowed to work. He went through all the drills and is expected to play Sunday when the Chargers host Cleveland.

"It looks like he'll go," coach Marty Schottenheimer said.

Vikes LB Harris, WR Robinson out

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Napoleon Harris will miss Sunday's game at San Francisco with a dislocated wrist.

Harris was downgraded to out on Friday's injury report along with receiver Marcus Robinson (bruised lower back), who also sat out Monday night against New England.

Dontarrious Thomas, who started seven games over his first two NFL seasons, will start in Harris' place Sunday. Harris, who kept playing after getting injured in the second quarter against the Patriots, is wearing a cast on his wrist.

Of three other key starters, center Matt Birk (knee) and defensive tackle Pat Williams (knee) were upgraded to probable, while defensive tackle Kevin Williams (ankle) remained questionable.