Colts lose Jackson

As Bob Sanders and Joseph Addai practiced for the second straight day, Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy announced Thursday that the injury rash has hit another starter: Cornerback Marlin Jackson will sit out the rest of the season because of a knee injury.

“He did significant damage to the knee, and I’m not exactly sure, but it’s probably going to involve some surgery,” Dungy said before practice. “I think he might get a second opinion, but right now, he’s probably going to be out for a while.”

A few hours later, the Colts put Jackson on injured reserve and re-signed cornerback Keiwan Ratliff, who has played in four games this year.

The injury is believed to be to Jackson’s right knee, but Dungy could not say that for sure, nor did he provide details of the diagnosis. The NFL’s website reported Jackson tore the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus cartilage.

Jones likes Johnson

Jerry Jones is glad Brad Johnson will be the Dallas Cowboys’ starting quarterback against the New York Giants and he expects his coaches to stick with the 40-year-old backup.

“Our best chance is to have him,” the Cowboys’ owner said.

Johnson is 1-1 since Tony Romo broke the pinkie on his throwing hand. He threw three interceptions in the loss and passed for only 122 yards in the win, prompting speculation that third-stringer Brooks Bollinger may go in at the first sign that Johnson is struggling.

“No, I don’t see that,” Jones said. “That would not be fair to our ability to win the game. We have got a guy who has years and years of making decisions here. We have every reason to believe he can make decisions and make the throws to win this game for us.”

Etc.

Atlanta Falcons rookie left tackle Sam Baker underwent successful back surgery. “I’m happy to have the procedure behind me,” Baker said. “I look forward to getting back on the field with my teammates as soon as possible.” The Falcons did not announce a timetable for Baker’s return. Baker, a first-round pick from USC, has started five games but was held out of last week’s game against Philadelphia with what was called a hip injury. . . . The Baltimore Ravens put reserve cornerback Derrick Martin on injured reserve. Rookie kicker Steve Hauschka was promoted to the active roster from the practice squad to take Martin’s spot.