Palmer still questionable for Bills; Braham doubtful

By Mark Curnutte
Enquirer staff writer

Carson Palmer remained listed as questionable for the game Sunday against Buffalo.

The Bengals quarterback was receiving treatment on his sprained left knee from team medical personnel and could not attend the weekly quarterback news conference late this morning.

Jon Kitna spoke at the news conference, but his appearance did not mean he would necessarily start.

"He has improved some. We'll see," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said early this afternoon of Palmer. "He's still in his brace."

Palmer stiffly walked through the locker room with the brace on his leg.

Kitna would start if Palmer can't play. Rookie Casey Bramlet would move up to No. 2, and Palmer would be the emergency third quarterback, Lewis said.

Lewis said he would make his decision on who starts at quarterback well before the game but would only announce his decision at game time.

The Bengals also could have another change in the middle of the offense. Center Rich Braham (knee) was downgraded to doubtful today, Lewis said. Braham was seen walking on crutches in the locker room.

Jerry Fontenot, acquired after the season began, would make his fourth start if Braham can't play. Fontenot, a 16th-year player, started Games 2-4 for the Bengals.

Beside Palmer, defensive lineman Duane Clemons (knee), safety Rogers Beckett (neck) and cornerback Deltha O'Neal (ankle) were listed as questionable. Clemons, who leads the team with 6.5 sacks, wore a leg brace in the locker room. Only O'Neal is expected to participate in parts of practice this afternoon.

Linebacker Kevin Hardy and rookie running back Chris Perry were probable, Lewis said.

E-mail mcurnutte@enquirer.com