Training camp Day 4: the fans arrive

Published 11:38 am Monday, August 3, 2009

This morning’s practice had a little different feel than those of the past three days, as 1,500 or so fans were on hand to watch. Players said they definitely noticed the difference, and that an added boost from the fans was much needed a few days into camp.

“Yesterday and today should be the hardest days of camp just because of the soreness, and it was good they brought the fans out today, because today would have been real tough had they not been here,” receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh.

Houshmandzadeh, Seattle’s big offseason signing, was a fan favorite during the practice, getting a lot of cheers when he made catches. He was also part of a failed trick play, throwing an interception on a reverse pass that was intended for Nate Burleson.

Walter Jones was out once again because of back spasms, but Mora said it is just that and nothing more. An MRI was done yesterday to confirm that it was nothing more serious. Jones had been scheduled to increase his work load in yesterday’s practice, Mora said.

Ray Willis was held out of practice with a sore knee, but that’s not a new injury, just something the team is being cautious with. Brandon Mebane, who bruised his knee yesterday, was also on the sideline today getting in a good workout with a trainer.

Marcus Trufant continues to be out with a sore back, and Aaron Curry is still unsigned. Mora talked briefly about Curry, and said he is still confident something will get done soon.

The Hawks are back at it at 6:30 p.m.