As the likelihood increases that Steve McNair has thrown his final pass of 2005, the attention turned Thursday to 2006.

The quarterback said he did not expect health to be an issue for him in deciding whether to return next season.

''Last year was a troubling season for me as far as injury-wise,'' McNair said. ''This year, it's been fairly true. It's going to be no problem as far as contemplating retirement. I will play.''

McNair said ''bumps and bruises'' such as the strained pectoral muscle that kept him out of practice Thursday are part of the game. It appears more likely now McNair will not play Sunday against Jacksonville, as third-string quarterback Matt Mauck will likely get the start.

With health not a factor, the focus will turn to a $50 million roster bonus due McNair in March. The Titans have begun talks with McNair's agent on reworking his deal and McNair said he remained optimistic it would be completed.

''I'm always positive,'' McNair said. ''I'm always going to look for the best, but prepare for the worst. That's how I look at things. But we just want to do it sooner than later.''

As for his off-season plans, McNair said they will focus on continuing his change in approach that he started last off-season.

''I'm just going to continue to go out and work hard like I did last offseason to come in in the best shape of my life,'' McNair said.