"While his teammates are basking in the klieg lights of Super Bowl XLIV, Bob Sanders is keeping a low profile.

The Indianapolis Colts' injured safety will watch Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints from the sideline in street clothes, but his gaze is a bit further down the road. Sanders is eagerly looking forward to the 2010 season.

"My goal is to come back strong -- stronger than ever -- and make an impact, make something happen," he said Wednesday at the team's hotel. "No one wants to end a career (beset with injuries). You know, 'He was OK, but he didn't play long enough. He was too injured.'

"No one wants their career to be overshadowed by injuries. I know I don't."

Sanders' sixth season with the Colts ended Nov. 1 when he ruptured the biceps tendon in his left elbow. Surgery was required.

It is the latest medical issue to plague the NFL's 2007 Defensive Player of the Year. He has missed more regular-season games (49) than he has played (47) since being selected in the second round of the 2004 draft because of knee, shoulder and foot injuries, then the torn biceps.

Sanders said his rehabilitation from the biceps injury and a nagging issue with his right knee that required arthroscopic surgery in 2008 are on schedule. He expects to be able to participate in the Colts' offseason workouts."