Still bothered by the effects of a concussion, Washington Redskins right tackle Tyler Polumbus did not practice Wednesday. His status is uncertain for Sunday’s NFC East-deciding game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Polumbus was injured Dec. 16 in Cleveland and did not play in Sunday’s win at Philadelphia. Coach Mike Shanahan said he doesn’t know how Polumbus would progress because any player with a concussion is subject to NFL protocol to be cleared for practice or game action.
“He’s checked every day, and he was checked today, and the doctors didn’t feel like he should practice,” Shanahan said Wednesday. “So he’ll go through the process today, and I can tell you more tomorrow.”
A few other Redskins players have dealt with concussions and the ensuing protocol this season, including quarterback Robert Griffin III, receiver Aldrick Robinson and safety Jordan Pugh. All three were cleared soon after.
Polumbus still was experiencing symptoms Sunday, which led to his being held out of the Redskins’ 27-20 win over the Eagles. Not practicing Wednesday seemed to indicate not enough progress was made.
“I don’t know if I want to call it a setback, but maybe you do call it a setback. Anytime somebody’s not clear, you know there’s some problems with the concussion,” Shanahan said. “There was some better signs today, but not good enough to practice. So I’m hoping tomorrow that since there has been improvement that those signs go away and he’s cleared to play, but I can’t tell you for sure.”
Maurice Hurt made his first career start at right tackle Sunday and would do so again against Dallas if Polumbus cannot play. The second time around should be easier.
“I think I’ll be more comfortable just because of the reps I got this past week. It’s one of those things where the more reps you get the more comfortable you get and the more confidence you gain,” Hurt said. “I think as the week goes on and if my number’s called again for me to play or start or however the case may be, I’ll be more comfortable.”
Redskins, Cowboys take it inside
With inclement weather in the D.C. area and around Dallas-Fort Worth, the Redskins and Cowboys were forced to practice inside Wednesday. Washington players worked out in the practice bubble at Redskins Park in Ashburn, and Dallas players moved inside to Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Fields had iced over at the Cowboys’ regular facility in Valley Ranch. Sleet and freezing rain were falling when the Redskins were scheduled to practice.
Barring further weather hazards, the teams should practice outdoors the rest of the week as they prepare for Sunday night’s game at FedEx Field. The forecast is for a low of 25 degrees Sunday night.
Griffin appeals fine
Griffin said he appealed a $10,000 uniform violation fine from the NFL for wearing Adidas gear at his postgame news conference Dec. 9 after a win over Baltimore. Griffin is sponsored by Adidas, while the league has a contract with Nike that prohibits other companies’ clothing to be worn during games.
“Well, I think it’s safe to say I appealed that, and we’ll see where that goes,” Griffin said. “But I understand the principle of that. I respect that. That’s why I haven’t really worn that much Adidas at all, three stripes. That’s all I can say about that.”
Extra points
Inside linebacker London Fletcher (left ankle) did not practice Wednesday. … Safety DeJon Gomes (left knee) was limited. … Receiver Dez Briscoe didn’t practice because he missed a flight back to D.C. after Christmas, Shanahan said, implying that Briscoe also was facing a fine.
• Stephen Whyno can be reached at swhyno@washingtontimes.com.
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