ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Arizona: Anquan Boldin practiced without restrictions Wednesday after appearing much closer to full strength in Week 2. Hamstring problems remain a concern long term, but Boldin appears to have overcome this one for now. Steve Breaston's availability despite a knee injury stands as a key variable. The Cardinals held him out of practice Wednesday after finding out the hard way in Week 1 that too much practice can cost Breaston on game days. Breaston's presence allows Kurt Warner to get more comfortable in three- and four-receiver packages. The Cardinals need his speed. Warner, Breaston, tackle Levi Brown and linebacker Chike Okeafor have been hurting lately. The bye in Week 4 should help this team. Keeping Okeafor healthy enough to play is important after the team lost Cody Brown to a season-ending injury.

Seattle: Coach Jim Mora opened his news conference Wednesday by saying he would answer questions if any time remained following an introductory statement about the team's injuries. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck could have a hard time getting comfortable anytime soon even if he plays through the pain of a broken rib. A comfortable Hasselbeck is usually an effective one. The Seahawks might be wise to hold out Hasselbeck for at least another week, or until left tackle Walter Jones returns. Jones is practicing and he could return from knee surgery against the Bears in Week 3. The Seahawks lack depth at tackle now that a high ankle sprain has sidelined Sean Locklear. Backup quarterback Seneca Wallace could be a more sensible option given his ability to escape trouble by running. Seattle's defense is also hurting. At least three, and possibly four, of the top seven players at linebacker and in the secondary could miss the Chicago game. A victory under the circumstances would be huge.

St. Louis: The Rams' depth on the offensive line could be tested now that first-round rookie right tackle Jason Smith will miss at least one game while recuperating from a knee injury. Backup Adam Goldberg isn't a bad option in the shorter term. A knee injury is also affecting center Jason Brown. Brown appears determined to gut it out against the Packers in Week 3. His size and experience against 3-4 defensive fronts could be important for the Rams. The Redskins roughed up Rams quarterback Marc Bulger last week. Bulger could be additionally vulnerable as the Rams fight through injuries up front.

San Francisco: Frank Gore was walking without a limp Monday despite suffering a sprained ankle against the Seahawks in Week 2. The 49ers will limit him during the week, but they expect Gore to start and play as usual against the Vikings. Receiver Brandon Jones could try to return this week, but it's unrealistic to expect much from him right away. The 49ers remain focused on establishing the run anyway. Even their starting receivers are having a hard time getting involved. Gore's health over the long term is a bit of a concern given the 49ers' willingness to run him against loaded fronts. The Vikings' big defensive tackles will surely be waiting for him Sunday.