McCown improves, but isn't ready yet

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Oct 5, 2007 | by Steve Corkran

ALAMEDA -- Josh McCown started the first three games for the Raiders this season. On Thursday, he started the next phase of his rehabilitation from a broken big toe on his left foot.

McCown walked without a protective boot for the first time since he sustained his injury in the first quarter of a game against the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 23. He finished the first half but was replaced by Daunte Culpepper at the start of the second half.

"It's getting close," McCown said of the injury.

However, close isn't good enough, he added. McCown attempted to return from a sprained right foot he sustained in Oakland's regular- season opener and found the going a little rough because he missed most of practice that week.

This time, he said, he won't even consider playing against the San Diego Chargers on Oct. 14 unless he gets in a full complement of practice beforehand. That means McCown has until Wednesday, perhaps next Thursday, to reach the point where he can move around without discomfort, or else he likely won't be available.

"I'll need a couple of full days, at least," McCown said, "because I'm in a new situation. It's different than an offense that you've been in for a few years. I learned from that (last time)."

Culpepper started in place of McCown against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday and is the starter until further notice, Raiders coach Lane Kiffin said Monday. Just the same, Kiffin refused to declare Culpepper the outright starter.

MORRISON, FARGAS HONORED: Raiders middle linebacker Kirk Morrison was named AFC Defensive Player of the Month for his stellar play in his team's four September games.

Also, running back Justin Fargas was named the FedEx Ground Player of the Week for his 179-yard rushing effort against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

Morrison intercepted three passes and played a key role in helping the Raiders match their victory total of last season (2) through his consistent play.

"It's recognition of hard work," Morrison said. "For me, right now it's definitely a great honor."

This is Morrison's first such honor. He edged out teammate and outside linebacker Thomas Howard, who also recorded three interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown against the Broncos on Sept. 16.

Making big plays is something that Morrison and Howard talk about on a frequent basis, Morrison said.

"We talk about taking over games," Morrison said. "Me and him feel like we're in a position to do that because we're in the middle of things. The team feeds off it."

Kiffin said Morrison's play is indicative of the hard work put in before and during practice, as well as in film study.

"Those two linebackers, they study," Kiffin said. "They're in there all the time late at night studying film, finding one more tip. Just find one more thing to make him better. They've done a great job, and it's paid off for them."

EXTRA POINTS: Defensive tackle Warren Sapp was fined $5,000 by the league for hitting Dolphins quarterback Trent Green below the knees. Sapp said he intends to appeal the fine because he was blocked by Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown below the knees and fell into Green as a result. ... The Raiders have lost the game following their bye week in each of the past four seasons. ... The Raiders are hosting an NFL Flag Regional Tournament on Saturday at their Alameda facility. Winning teams from each age bracket (9-11 coeds, 12-14 boys, 12-14 girls) move on to participate in the NFL Flag Tournament of Champions at Disney's Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Fla., on Nov.17.