Branch, Tatupu expected to practice this afternoon

RENTON — Wide receiver Deion Branch and middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu were among the players expected back at the Seattle Seahawks’ practice this afternoon.

Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren said Branch will see his first action since undergoing January knee surgery, albeit on a limited basis. The Seahawks are holding out hope that Branch might be available to play in Sunday’s regular-season opener, although Holmgren said it is the receiver’s decision.

Tatupu missed last week’s practices due to a bruised bone in his knee.

Starting right tackle Sean Locklear was unlikely to practice today, and Holmgren said it is unrealistic to expect him to play Sunday at Buffalo. Ray Willis is the likely starter at right tackle.