LaDainian Tomlinson has been ruled out of the Chargers’ home opener against the Ravens tomorrow because of a sprained ankle, just the second time the star running back will miss a start because of an injury in his brilliant nine-year career.
The former MVP, who was hurt in Monday night’s 24-20 win at Oakland, hadn’t missed a game with an injury until January, when a groin injury kept him out of a playoff loss to the eventual Super Bowl champion Steelers.
Tomlinson’s carries will go to Darren Sproles and Michael Bennett, a late-season addition last year who made the roster out of training camp.
Also out are center Nick Hardwick (ankle) and defensive end Travis Johnson (groin). Right guard Louis Vasquez (knee) could also be sidelined, along with linebacker Antwan Applewhite (hamstring) and defensive tackle Jamal Williams (elbow).
McNabb doubtful
Eagles quarterback
Donovan McNabb is doubtful for tomorrow’s game against the Saints because of a fractured rib. McNabb sat out of practice for the third straight day though coach
Andy Reid refused to rule out the QB and said there was a chance he would participate in today’s walkthrough.
Kevin Kolb is expected to start if McNabb can’t play . . . In the good news, bad news department, Bills cornerback
Terrence McGee signed a four-year contract extension but was then listed as questionable for tomorrow’s home opener because of back spasms. Financial terms of deal were not disclosed . . . Steelers receiver
Limas Sweed will miss tomorrow’s game vs. the Bears because of a sprained foot . . . Also, five Seahawks starters, including receiver
T.J. Houshmandzadeh (back spasms), are hobbling. In addition to Houshmandzadeh, receiver
Deion Branch (hamstring), tackle
Walter Jones (undisclosed), center
Chris Spencer (quadriceps), and
Lofa Tatupu (hamstring) are all recuperating from injuries.
Some fine messes
The NFL fined Cardinals safety
Adrian Wilson $10,000 for a hit on 49ers receiver
Vernon Davis last Sunday. Wilson was flagged for unnecessary roughness on the play, on which he broke up a pass. Davis wasn’t hurt . . . The league also fined San Chargers QB
Philip Rivers $7,500 for taunting in Monday night’s victory at Oakland. Rivers was involved in an incident with Raiders defensive lineman
Gerard Warren which resulted in a 15-yard penalty as well as the fine . . . Also a little lighter in the wallet are Redskins receiver
Santana Moss and Giants cornerback
Corey Webster, who were docked $5,000 apiece for their tussle during last week’s game.
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