Vikings hoping Peterson can go

Star running back Adrian Peterson returned to practice yesterday with the winless Minnesota Vikings, but he was limited in his work and remained questionable for tomorrow's game because of a hamstring injury.

Coach Brad Childress said he would wait until shortly before the game against unbeaten Carolina to decide whether Peterson, who leads the NFL with 263 yards rushing, will participate. If Peterson can't go, Chester Taylor - a 1,200-yard rusher in 2006 - will take his place in the backfield. Either way, Taylor could assume a larger role against the Panthers. He has been returning kickoffs, too, and is sixth in the league with a 28.5-yard average.

Peterson, who missed 2 1/2 games with a sprained knee in 2007, said he plans to play but must convince the trainers and coaches he's not risking aggravating the injury by not being at full strength.

Harrington gets job with Saints

Joey Harrington has landed a new gig, signing a contract with the New Orleans Saints to back up Drew Brees and Mark Brunell. Harrington, a standout at Oregon, has spent six seasons in the NFL since being drafted third overall by Detroit in 2002. He played for Miami in 2006 and Atlanta last season . . . Coach Tony Dungy said center Jeff Saturday and tight end Dallas Clark, both out last week with knee injuries, are expected in the starting lineup when the Colts host Jacksonville tomorrow. Jaguars receiver Jerry Porter (hamstring) likely will miss a third consecutive game . . . Running back LaDainian Tomlinson (toe) returned to practice in a limited role and is listed as questionable for the San Diego Chargers' game against the New York Jets Monday night. Tomlinson missed practice the previous two days . . . Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards (shoulder) was limited in practice and listed as questionable for tomorrow's game at Baltimore. The Browns also will likely be without guard Eric Steinbach (shoulder), linebacker Willie McGinest (hamstring), and wide receiver Donte' Stallworth (quadriceps) . . . Guard Shawn Andrews is doubtful for the Eagles' game against the Pittsburgh Steelers because of back spasms . . . Packers linebacker Nick Barnett said he will appeal a $7,500 fine for a helmet-to-helmet contact on a hit of Detroit quarterback Jon Kitna last week.