NFL

FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer reports that Jets players tell him the team is benching FS Kerry Rhodes in favor of Eric Smith. Rhodes, who signed a $33.5M extension two offseasons ago, was the starting free safety for the NFL’s No. 4 pass defense in the first ten games, hasn’t been able to come up with the big plays this season (no picks, zero forced fumbles, only five pass breakups). We expect Rhodes to eventually earn his starting job back, but the Jets coaching staff is clearly trying to send a message.

Elsewhere around the NFL:

Indianapolis: Cots QB Peyton Manning was limited in Indianapolis Colts practice Wednesday with a “glute” injury. Considering he hasn’t missed a game in his career, we think it’s ok to plug Manning in your lineup for the Texans on Sunday.

San Diego: Chargers WR Vincent Jackson was held out of Chargers practice Wednesday because of a ribs injury. He should be ok to go against the Chiefs in week 12, but pay attention to the injury report throughout the week.

Buffalo: Bills RB Marshawn Lynch (shoulder) was a full participant in practice Wednesday. The Buffalo Bills said this week that Lynch was considered “day to day,” and he didn’t appear to be in any pain on the sidelines of last week’s loss after the injury. Even though Lynch might play this weekend, Fred Jackson will see his share of the carries.

Arizona: In a conference call with Tennessee media Wednesday, Kurt Warner (head) told reporters that he expects to play Sunday at the Titans. Throughout his career, Warner has always been upfront with reports so it looks as if he will play Sunday. Through ten games, Warner is averaging two passing TDs and 272 yards per week and he has a favorable matchup in week 12.

St. Louis: Rams RB Steven Jackson missed Rams practice Wednesday with back spasms. The St. Louis Rams usually list players that miss full practices as questionable on the final injury report, but Jackson seems confident that he’ll face Seattle, saying he’s “expecting to play Sunday.” “Hopefully it’ll release a little bit and allow me to practice,” the workhorse added. “It’s just one of those things where you’ve got to wait it out.” Check back later this week for an update.

Atlanta: Falcons RB Michael Turner (ankle) returned to Falcons practice on a “limited” basis Wednesday.
The development is promising for his chances of playing in Week 13, but coach Mike Smith’s admission that Turner has “no timetable” for return means he probably isn’t ready to face the Bucs. Jerious Norwood (hip) practiced fully Wednesday, though Jason Snelling is very likely to be Atlanta’s lead runner in the favorable matchup. Norwood hasn’t played in six weeks