Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy and running back LeGarrette Blount didn't practice Wednesday, further clouding their availability for Sunday's game against the NFC South-leading New Orleans Saints.
Both players were injured during last Sunday's 48-3 loss at San Francisco. Coach Raheem Morris, while refusing to rule out either player Monday, called McCoy "week to week" with an ankle injury and said he wanted to see Blount practice on his injured knee before making a determination.
Morris sounded more doubtful Wednesday, at least about McCoy.
"I would have to say it's not looking great. He did not participate today," Morris said. "He's an ankle, but it is what it is. Again, we're finding his replacement."
Morris left a little wiggle room on Blount playing.
"He was in treatment during practice and didn't participate today," Morris said. "Next man up there for me."
When pressed on if he assumed Blount wouldn't play, Morris said: "It's always my assumption with anybody. You guys kind of know me by now. Next man up. ... Throw the next man out there, and he may play better than the starter."
Morris indicated that if Blount can't play, Earnest Graham, Kregg Lumpkin and Allen Bradford likely would share carries.
McCoy's backup is Frank Okam, although Morris mentioned defensive tackles Roy Miller and Brian Price as possible replacements as well.
