Kelly practices, likely to return Sunday

By STEPHEN F. HOLDER, Times Staff Writer
Published September 21, 2007

TAMPA - Brian Kelly appears poised to return to the lineup.

The starting left cornerback strained his groin during the season opener at Seattle, missed Sunday's home opener against the Saints but said Thursday, "I like my chances" of playing against St. Louis.

Coach Jon Gruden said after the afternoon practice that Kelly participated fully in the workout.

"Thursday was a good performance by him," Gruden said. "If we get him back, it will be a real good addition to us."

But Kelly's return was offset by receiver Ike Hilliard missing practice with an ankle injury. It was unclear when Hilliard was hurt, and Gruden didn't expound on the severity.

"Hopefully, we'll see if he's ready to go (today)," Gruden said.

The NFL's revamped injury reporting guidelines require teams to distinguish if a player participated fully in practice, on a limited basis or did not participate.

Hilliard was categorized as having not participated, an indication his status likely will be no better than questionable on today's injury report.

WHO'S NO. 2?: Hilliard has started the first two games opposite Joey Galloway. Still, his 100 receiving yards are fewer than half of Galloway's team-leading 207. Hilliard has six receptions, but no other receiver has more than one. Michael Clayton has one catch for 11 yards, and Maurice Stovall has barely seen the field.

"We don't really have a No. 2 (receiver)," Gruden said. "We're getting it done by committee.

"We only threw 16 passes (against New Orleans). No one's going to be real involved. There will be a day when we throw it 40 or 45 times. There'll be a lot more receptions to be had there. We would like to see Clayton catch some passes and showcase his stuff."

PHILLIPS MAKING STRIDES: Strong safety Jermaine Phillips, who was frequently criticized last season for missed tackles and assignments, has shown marked improvement.

He is third on the team (first among the secondary) in tackles with 17.Seems Phillips has been motivated by the team drafting two safeties as well as the return of his position coach.

"He's off to a good start," Gruden said. "We expect him to be a veteran leader back there and a playmaker. I think he deserves a lot of credit ... and Raheem Morris as well. Jermaine Phillips really responded to him."

Stephen F. Holder can be reached sholder@sptimes.com or (813) 226-3377.

[Last modified September 20, 2007, 21:52:25]