McNAIR TO PRACTICE: Titans quarterback Steve McNair tossed a few balls and took some snapsduring a 90-minute walkthrough Tuesday, and coach Jeff Fisher said McNair will practice today.
It would be McNair's first practice in three weeks. A strained right calf and sprained left ankle that also has a cracked bone spur has kept him out of practice and two of the past three games. Both injuries are significantly improved, Fisher said.
"He was adamant about getting taped and going out there and checking both legs out," Fisher said. "He was happy with the way things went. He dropped, set; he threw and felt good."
McNair said he was pleased with the workout.
"It felt good. I didn't feel any pain," McNair said. "I got a little fatigued, and that's normal when you haven't done anything in three weeks. That's going to come as I continue every day to improve and build up the strength in it. It's going to be fine."
Linebacker Rocky Calmus, who broke his leg Dec. 1, tried some running. But he got sore and stopped. Fisher said he is doubtful for Saturday's game at Baltimore.
CHIEFS COACH LIKES BYE: Coach Dick Vermeil does not count himself among those who fret about their team losing its rhythm when off for the first week of the postseason.
For one thing, his team might be completely healthy for the first time in several weeks by the time it hosts a second-round game Jan. 11.
"We've already played 21 games, including the Hall of Fame game as a fifth preseason (game). I think the players appreciate and need the break," Vermeil said.
The Chiefs plan a light week with only conditioning work until Saturday's sole full practice.
"I think the bye is an advantage," Vermeil said. "We've earned the right. It might also allow us to suit up our complete starting lineup for the first time in a number of weeks."
VETERAN BRONCOS: The past four Super Bowls have been won by coaches and teams that had never won a Super Bowl previously, which might mean playoff experience is overrated.
But playoff experience probably doesn't hurt, and the Broncos have plenty of it. Although Denver hasn't been to the playoffs since 2000, it has 10 players who were on both Super Bowl title teams.
"I think it's very important," said Broncos cornerback Jimmy Spencer, also an assistant coach. "The game picks up another level. Everything is quicker. You have to be ready to go. And if you don't have that kind of experience, you get left behind."
The Broncos will have as many as 14 starters Sunday who have played in at least one playoff game, including quarterback Jake Plummer. He played in two playoff games with Arizona in 1998.
