Lewis won't commit to Palmer for Sunday

By Mark Curnutte
Enquirer staff writer

The health status of defensive lineman Carl Powell, tight end Reggie Kelly, linebacker Marcus Wilkins and running back Chris Perry are improving, and Perry said today he would definitely be ready to play in the playoffs Jan. 7-8.

Several Bengals players had medical treatment today, including quarterback Carson Palmer, but coach Marvin Lewis is not ready to commit or not commit to playing Palmer in the season finale Sunday at Kansas City.

"He didn't seem to be real bad today," Lewis said of Palmer, who tweaked a groin Saturday against the Bills.

Lewis declined to place a designation of doubtful, questionable or probable on any of his players because, "I don't have to (on Monday), thank you."

All of the injured players, with the possible exception of starting defensive tackle Bryan Robinson (foot), have a chance of playing against the Chiefs.

Asked for more information on Palmer, Lewis said, "We'll see what happens. We'll play to win the game. It's important to play better."

The Bengals currently hold the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs. They could slip to No. 4 if they lose to the Chiefs and New England wins its two remaining games, including tonight against the New York Jets.

"It's the same scenario," Lewis said of the playoff picture. "Nothing's really changed."

The Bengals will play host to one of three teams on wildcard weekend – Pittsburgh, Jacksonville or Kansas City.

"There's nothing anything more that the Kansas City Chiefs (Sunday) on my mind," Lewis said.
E-mail mcurnutte@enquirer.com