On the eve of Thanksgiving, it appears that the Arizona Cardinals are closer to getting some key players back for game action. Quarterback Kevin Kolb and tight end Todd Heap, both important offseason acquisitions, participated in practice in a limited fashion. There is some optimism that they may be able to play on Sunday against the St. Louis Rams.
Kolb took about 35 to 40 percent of the snaps with the first team, according to his own estimation and also about half the snaps with the scout team. If his foot and toe respond well to the action, it will allow him more reps in practice and a likely return to game action and starting against the Rams.
In addition to Heap (hamstring), fellow tight end Rob Housler (groin) also was limited in practice. Michael Adams (hamstring) and Beanie Wells (knee) were also limited.
There were four players who did not practice. As expected, safety Kerry Rhodes (foot) and linebacker Joey Porter (knee) were out. In addition to them, tackles Brandon Keith and Jeremy Bridges did not practice. Keith is recovering from a concussion he suffered against the 49ers and Bridges was out due to non-football reasons.
The other three players on the injury report fully practiced. LaRod Stephens-Howling (shoulder) and Paris Lenon (groin) have been listed now for a couple of weeks. Darnell Dockett (groin) appeared on the list as well.