HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (Aug. 17, 2006) -- Jets quarterback Chad Pennington was excused from practice Aug. 17 for personal reasons and his status for the preseason game against Washington on Aug. 19 is uncertain.
Coach Eric Mangini said Pennington left because of a family illness. He wouldn't say whether Pennington would travel to Washington with the team or play against the Redskins.
"I want Chad to make sure he's able to focus on his family and take care of the things he needs to take care of," Mangini said.
When asked whether they were preparing to play without Pennington, Mangini said: "We're always preparing for the different contingencies that come up. We'll follow it closely and adjust accordingly as we go."
Pennington, coming off a second major shoulder injury, is in a four-way competition for the starting job with Patrick Ramsey, Kellen Clemens and Brooks Bollinger. Though Mangini hasn't announced a starter, Pennington appears to be the favorite to win the job.
