"Running back Fred Taylor returned to the locker room yesterday, making his first appearance in front of reporters since tearing ligaments in his ankle in early October.

The veteran underwent surgery following a Week 4 win against the Ravens and has not practiced since. He politely declined to answer questions yesterday, saying, "I'm zipped up for a while, man. Sorry."

A reporter told Taylor he had plenty of questions.

"Everybody does," Taylor said.

The 33-year-old Taylor was not limping, nor was he encumbered by a brace. At the base of his locker sat a playbook.

Taylor has 201 rushing yards on 45 attempts with two touchdowns in four games."