MIKE HART NEWS

Dawson expects to start at defensive tackle

Barring a setback, Keyunta Dawson anticipates being in the starting lineup Sunday when the Indianapolis Colts meet the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The starting defensive tackle sprained his left ankle in last Sunday's win at Minnesota. He practiced Friday after being held out of the previous two days' work.

"I got to practice and it felt good," Dawson said after Friday's workout. "I've just got to talk to the training staff and make sure everything's good. But I tested it out the past few days and it felt good."

Losing Dawson, who ranks fourth on the defense with 16 tackles, would be a blow to a run defense that has allowed an average of 181.5 yards in the first two games. The Jaguars feature a potent running back tandem of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew.
Silva an option

With starting safety Bob Sanders out with an ankle injury and backup Matt Giordano uncertain for Sunday -- he didn't practice Thursday or Friday because of back spasms -- the Colts might sign rookie safety Jamie Silva from the practice squad.

"There's a chance to get another safety up," coach Tony Dungy said.

The problem will be in creating a roster spot. With so many players dealing with short-term injuries, the team likely would have to release a player it would prefer to keep.
Lynch? No

Dungy admitted perennial Pro Bowl safety John Lynch would help the Colts' safety situation. But that's not going to happen.

"We have not talked to him and we probably don't have the (salary-cap space) to fit John in," Dungy said. "But John's a good player and he could definitely help us."

Lynch, 36, played for Dungy at Tampa Bay. Lynch, who was released by the Denver Broncos in training camp, signed with New England in August and was cut by the Patriots earlier this month.
Good to go

Center Jeff Saturday (knee) and tight end Dallas Clark (knee) practiced again Friday and are expected to play against the Jaguars.

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