Team says injury not as serious as described on a Web site on Wednesday.

The four sacks Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer absorbed in a 34-16 loss at Indianapolis on Monday night bruised more than his ego. They also hurt his right throwing shoulder.

But the Bengals on Wednesday denied a report on ProFootballTalk.com that Palmer has a torn rotator cuff.

For the first time this season, Palmer's name surfaced on the club's injury report. He's listed as probable for Sunday's game at Denver. The injury is listed as his right shoulder. He did not practice in the club's 11-on-11 drills at Paul Brown Stadium.

"I am authorized to say from our medical staff that any reports of a serious structural injury are unfounded," Bengals public relations director Jack Brennan said.

"The coaches and trainers tell us that (Palmer) just came out of the Indianapolis game with a sore shoulder. He was rested a little bit (Wednesday), but they expect that he will fully practice (today)."

Brennan added that "no (practice) doesn't mean that he did nothing. He did participate in some of practice. He just didn't do all of 11 on 11."

The Web site reported a reader's tip that "Palmer has a shoulder injury, possibly a torn rotator cuff," and that Palmer is undergoing tests.

Colts defensive tackle Raheem Brock sacked Palmer on the final play of the first half, causing Palmer to walk off the field with his right arm hanging straight down. After the game, Palmer visited the training room, where he was examined by team doctors.

Palmer was also sacked three times by Colts right defensive end Dwight Freeney. Palmer fumbled on all four sacks, but lost only one.

"I'll be fine," Palmer said Wednesday. "I don't feel too banged up. I don't feel I got hit too hard or anything out of the ordinary. I feel good today."

 Dayton Daily News

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