Brady prepares for Jets

Says left shoulder injury not a worry

By The Associated Press

Patriots quarterback Tom Brady told New England fans not to worry about his left shoulder injury, even though it has kept him out of the team’s first two practices this week.

Brady did not participate in practice Wednesday, although he was spotted on the field. Brady was absent from the open portion of practice Tuesday and reportedly received an MRI on his nonthrowing shoulder.

Brady said he would be on the field Sunday for a game against the Jets with first place in the AFC East Division on the line. “I’ll be there Sunday. Don’t worry about that.”

Jaguars

Leonard Fournette has carried on the Jacksonville offense’s opening play each week this season, running between the tackles, lowering his shoulder pads and setting the tone for a team determined to play smashmouth football. “Sometimes it lets somebody know that it’s going to be a long day ahead of them,” Fournette said. “It sends a message not just to the defense, but to your O-line and offense, too.”

Lions

Quarterback Matthew Stafford was able to practice Wednesday despite a right ankle issue that had him limping late ast weekend in a game against Carolina. When asked about his status for Sunday at New Orleans, he said: “You guys can figure it out through the week.”

Browns

Kevin Hogan will replace struggling rookie DeShone Kizer at quarterback this week and start at Houston, becoming the 28th different starter for the Browns since 1999.

Colts

Andrew Luck will be back on the Colts practice field Thursday and Saturday this week. Coach Chuck Pagano described Luck’s progression as “coming along good.” The Colts quarterback returned to practice a week ago, the first time he’s worked out with his teammates since having surgery on his throwing shoulder in January.