With Trent Cole out, Juqua Parker wanted more than ever to get back. Now it looks like thats not going to happen.
Parker hasnt given up on trying to play against the Bills Sunday, but he did leave practice early Wednesday after experiencing continuing soreness in his right ankle.
Parker hasnt played since Week 2 in Atlanta, when he suffered a high ankle sprain. Wednesdays practice was the first hes participated in.
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I wouldnt say its a setback, Parker said. I went out there to see what I could do, and it went OK. I just dont want to push it too much and have a setback and then miss more time.
I did what I can do and then I felt like maybe I needed to take it easy on it, so thats what I did.
Cole is out for Sunday and most likely through the bye week with a calf strain. Darryl Tapp, who hasnt played since the opener in St. Louis because of a pectoral strain, did practice Wednesday and thinks hell be fine for the Bills.
That would give the Eagles three healthy defensive ends -- Jason Babin, who leads the NFL with seven sacks; Tapp; and Phillip Hunt. Defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins, who is sixth in the NFL with four sacks, would also get some reps outside.
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Parker ranks 14th in Eagles history with 30 career sacks. Cole is third with 60, including three in the first four games this year.
Im a competitor and being out, it sucks watching from the sideline, Parker said. Its definitely getting better. I dont think Ill know 'til Sunday if I can go. Monday I ran on it, Tuesday I ran a little bit better on it. Its getting better each and every day. I did what I could today and Ill do what I can tomorrow and well see.
Tapp was listed as a full participant, which is a good sign. Tapp returned to practice last week but was inactive for the 49ers game.
Still getting treatment, feeling a lot better, Tapp said. My intent is to play. Well see how the next few days ago, but Im feeling good. I think Ill be out there.
Tight end Brent Celek was limited Wednesday with what the club called an illness.
Everybody else other than Cole and Jason Peters (hamstring) practiced.
Also on the injury report but full participants were: Nate Allen (knee), Jason Avant (shoulder), Riley Cooper (hamstring), Moise Fokou (neck), Brandon Hughes (hamstring), Cullen Jenkins (tricep), Winston Justice (knee), Mike Patterson (knee), Steve Smith (knee) and Michael Vick (left finger).
E-mail Reuben Frank at rfrank@comcastsportsnet.com.