Cards' Boldin Says He'll Play Against Eagles

Arizona WR Anquan Boldin practiced Wednesday and said he will play in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Eagles.

Boldin, who with Larry Fitzgerald forms arguably the best receiving tandem in football, said a trip to a Dallas chiropractor has greatly improved his strained left hamstring. The injury kept Boldin out of the Cardinals' 33-13 victory at Carolina in Saturday's divisional playoff game.

"I'll be out there Sunday," he said after practice.

Boldin said he was able to participate in all phases of practice, but in shorter spurts than normal.

He said he expected to be "real effective" in what would be the biggest game of his career.

"I don't see there being any problems, no hindrances or anything like that," Boldin said. "I'll just be myself and resume my regular role."

Coach Ken Whisenhunt withheld final judgment on Boldin's status until he sees how the receiver does as the week progresses, but the coach was optimistic.

"If he continues to progress like we think he is, I have no doubts he would play," Whisenhunt said.

Boldin injured his hamstring Jan. 3 against Atlanta.

WESTBROOK STILL A THREAT: Brian Westbrook walks around slowly, often with a limp. He watches practices from the sideline, needing the extra rest to be ready for game days.

Injuries have limited Westbrook's production this season, but the Eagles still rely on their dynamic running back, even if he's only a decoy at times.

"It's frustrating when you're not 100 percent," Westbrook said. "I've been battling all year. I continue to be positive, I can do the things I need to do to help this team."

Westbrook missed one game with an ankle injury and another with broken ribs. He also has sore knees that make it difficult for him to climb four steps to reach the podium for his weekly news conference. It's no wonder with the way he hobbles that Coach Andy Reid gives Westbrook time off during the week.

Westbrook sat out Wednesday's practice, but he'll certainly play against the Cardinals in Sunday's NFC Championship Game.

"Just being able to get my legs, my knees, my ankles a little bit of rest, I think it continues to help me recover a little bit better, a little bit more every week," Westbrook said. "That's something that I think is playing a big part of me even being able to go out there and play on Sundays."

The Associated Press