Injured in practice on Wednesday, Bills LB Kawika Mitchell's status for Sunday's game is not looking all that promising.
Head coach Chan Gailey addressed Mitchell's status following practice Thursday, after he did not participate. Gailey confirmed that the veteran linebacker will be undergoing further tests for a foot injury sustained in practice Wednesday.
"We're still evaluating what's going on," said Gailey. "Since he didn't work today and we're giving him more tests you'd have to put him more toward the doubtful category, but I don't have to do that officially until (Friday)."
Mitchell is the backup middle linebacker behind starter Andra Davis and has been worked in for certain subpackage roles. Keith Ellison is expected to serve as the third inside linebacker Sunday if Mitchell is unable to play.
Torbor still not readyStarting outside linebacker Reggie Torbor also did not practice on Thursday with a chest injury that kept him out of the last two preseason games. He practiced on Monday, but has not done so since.
"It's looking a little dim for him at this point, but we're still holding out hope at this time," Gailey said.
Chris Ellis is expected to start in his place if he cannot go this weekend with Aaron Maybin stepping in for passing situations. Ellis left a good impression on the coaching staff with the progress he made through the course of the offseason.
"Chris has done some good things," said Gailey. "He's not a finished product, just like many of our players are not a finished product. He's still learning the position. He's come a long way. He can rush the passer which is good. He's big, strong and physical, which allows him to play the run. He's just getting a better feel for standing up because he's used to having his hand on the ground."
Rookie OLB Antonio Coleman also did not practice for a second straight day due to a hamstring injury.
