Dolphins LB Crowder to play vs. Jets

Dec 27, 2008 - 1:19 AM DAVIE, Florida (Ticker) -- Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder on Friday said that his injured knee will not deter him from playing in the team's pivotal game against the New York Jets on Sunday.

"I'll play. It was just real sore and when we went out for pregame last week, it didn't work out, but now I'll play this week. I feel 100 percent," Crowder said.

"I could have gone last week (against Kansas City) and I tried everything and took all the pills I could and all that foolishness trying to get out there but I just couldn't go. I couldn't run and I didn't want to hurt the team. This is really our first playoff game. It's the first round of the playoffs for us and I want to be out there. I want to help the team."

Prior to last week's 38-31 victory over the Chiefs, Crowder was tied for the team lead in tackles.

Crowder, who is eligible for free agency this upcoming offseason, has 104 tackles this season for the surprising Dolphins (10-5), who can win the AFC East by defeating the rival Jets (9-6) on Sunday.

Also joining Crowder on the practice field on Friday was cornerback Will Allen, who injured his groin against the Chiefs.

"They look OK, I think, today. They did a little bit more," Miami coach Tony Sparano said. "We'll have to see how it goes tomorrow."