McNair, Kearse Sit Out Wednesday Practice
By Nathan Ealy January 15, 2003

Not much out of the ordinary at Baptist Sports Park Wednesday as both quarterback Steve McNair and defensive end Jevon Kearse sat out of practice once again.

Head Coach Jeff Fisher said he expects McNair to be back on the field Thursday to prepare for the AFC Championship game Sunday.

''Steve has a very good chance of getting on the field tomorrow, he did throw the ball, grip the ball and his thumb is feeling better,'' Fisher said.

Fisher also said that although Kearse missed practice he is still likely to play Sunday.

''We will, in all likelihood keep Jevon out of practice this week and just condition him, rest him for the ballgame and see how he is in pregame warmups,'' Fisher said.

Fisher said the Kearse will continue to deal with the pain for the rest of the season, although rest can help the soreness.

''When he puts pressure on it and puts himself in a usual situation as far as the foot's concerned it will get sore and then the pain has a tendency to ease off after a couple of days,'' Fisher said. ''What we want to do is keep him as fresh and as pain free as we can this week.''

Running back Eddie George did return to the practice field Wednesday and Fisher said George is not having any post-concussion symptoms.

Also returning to practice were cornerback Andre Dyson who injured his shoulder against the Steelers, and special teams player Rocky Boiman who is dealing with knee problems. Both, however, were limited in practice Wednesday.

Offensive lineman Zach Piller continued to sit out of practice Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game.