"Running back Willie Parker (turf toe) missed his third consecutive practice, making him unlikely to play Sunday night against San Diego at Heinz Field. Parker is listed as doubtful on the team's final injury report and could be a gametime decision. Typically if a player doesn't practice on Friday he isn't expected to play Sunday.

• Rookie free agent Isaac Redman took some first-team reps on goal-line drills and could be activated from the practice squad if Parker doesn't play against the Chargers. "Just trying to stay prepared,'' Redman said. "I work hard every day in practice so when I do get a chance it comes natural.''

• Redman was a goal-line sensation during training camp so his release came as a surprise to some. Since being signed to the practice squad, he hasn't been activated for a game. But that could change because of Parker's status. Rashard Mendenhall took first-team reps in practice all week and Mewelde Moore will also get some carries along with being the third-down back. "They said it's a possibility,'' Redman said about being activated for Sunday's game. "I really have no clue what's going on. They gave me a couple of reps and told me to be ready.''"