Updated: November 2, 2005, 5:02 PM ET

Lions WR Rogers returns from drug suspension

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Associated Press

ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- The Detroit Lions welcomed receiver Charles Rogers back from a drug suspension Wednesday, but still didn't know who would be throwing the ball to him on Sunday.

Wide Receiver
Detroit Lions

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2005 SEASON STATISTICS
Rec Yds TD Avg Long YAC
5 77 0 15.4 31 14

Rogers practiced with the team after finishing a four-week suspension under the NFL's substance abuse program, but quarterback Jeff Garcia did not.

Receivers Scottie Vines and Mike Williams probably will start Sunday at Minnesota, but the backup spot didn't seem to bother Rogers, who had complained about his role in the offense before the suspension.

"I know I can contribute to the team and help this team win," he said. "It's not about me starting. I know I'm going to be out there."

Rogers would not say what drug he tested positive for, nor if he felt he had a drug problem. The closest he came to discussing the situation was saying he probably would have to say goodbye to some old friends and move on with his life.

"You've got to look out for yourself," he said, "and right now myself is more important than anyone else."

Garcia, who was banged up in Sunday's 19-13 loss to Chicago, was on the field with the team, but did not take part in drills.

"Another day of rest probably would do some good, Garcia said. "I just didn't want to push it and make it worse. It's (coach Steve Mariucci's) decision and a lot depends on how I feel. If I'm not able to practice tomorrow, that makes his decision a lot easier."

Garcia missed the first six weeks of the season after fracturing his leg in the team's final preseason game. He made his first start Oct. 23 at Cleveland after Joey Harrington was benched.

Harrington, who had made 37 straight starts before the demotion, took nearly every snap with the first team Wednesday.

"I'll be ready in any situation," Harrington said.

Mariucci said he was comfortable with Harrington if Garcia is unable to go.

"Joey's had two good weeks of practice," he said. "He knows he has to be ready and he will be if we need him."

Receiver Roy Williams, who has missed the last two games with a quadriceps injury, practiced Wednesday and said he expects to play Sunday.

Linebacker Teddy Lehman (sprained right foot) was in a brace Wednesday and will not play at Minnesota. The Lions signed free agent Nate Wayne on Tuesday to bolster the linebacking corps.


Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press