Hostetler Not Expected to Start

Jeff Hostetler practiced with a brace protecting his sore right knee, but Oakland Raider Coach Mike White said there’s “almost no chance” Hostetler will start Sunday at Kansas City.

Billy Joe Hobert, who completed 17 of 26 passes for 192 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in the Raiders’ season-opening 19-14 loss at Baltimore, will start.

The Raiders have lost seven games in a row, going winless since Hostetler was sidelined because of a shoulder injury last November. Hostetler hurt his knee during training camp this summer.

White said Hostetler’s knee is fine, but “he’s got a ways to go in terms of his timing and execution.”

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Pittsburgh Steeler guard Will Wolford was hospitalized briefly because of a previously diagnosed irregular heartbeat, but was released and is expected to play Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens.

Steeler linebacker Greg Lloyd had successful surgery to repair the left patella tendon that will cause him to miss the season.

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Defensive tackle Erik Howard (torn right knee ligaments) was put on injured reserve by the New York Jets, meaning he is out for the season. New York promoted defensive lineman Bobby Hamilton from the practice squad to replace Howard on the roster.