"Channing Crowder hasn't practiced since Aug. 17, so it comes as little surprise that the Miami Dolphins have declared their starting inside linebacker out for Sunday's game at Minnesota.

The only surprise is that they have done so on Friday afternoon, rather than milking the suspense another 24 hours for competitive reasons.

Crowder's injured groin is gradually coming along, however, and his side work with team trainers seems to be gaining in intensity during open practice periods. Hope remains that Crowder will be able to return to the lineup against the team he hates the most (the Jets) and the coach he most enjoys tweaking (Rex Ryan).

If I had to bet at this point, I'd say Crowder plays against the Jets next Sunday night. His mood and body language in the locker room have improved that notably in recent days.

Also declared out Friday was rookie defensive end Jared Odrick (hairline fracture in his right fibula). "