Associated Press

SAN DIEGO - Drew Brees is back as the San Diego Chargers' starting quarterback, and Doug Flutie is back on the bench for Sunday's game against Green Bay.

Brees regained his job Friday, a move that was expected even though the 41-year-old Flutie led the last-place Chargers to two-thirds of their wins this year.

Brees, a third-year pro, hadn't played since a loss at Chicago Nov. 2. Flutie led the Chargers (3-10) to two wins in the following five starts. The Chargers have won just five of their last 22 games and are tied with three teams for the league's worst record.

"It's not a reflection on Doug Flutie's performance," coach Marty Schottenheimer said. "Drew needed an opportunity to step back and look at it from a different perspective. Let's find out exactly what kind of progress he made."

Brees has thrown 12 interceptions and seven touchdowns this year, and his 63.3 passer rating is second-worst in the AFC.

Flutie has nine touchdown passes and four interceptions this year.

DOLPHINS: Quarterback Jay Fiedler practiced despite soreness in his left knee and is expected to start Monday against Philadelphia.

VIKINGS: Michael Bennett's sprained ankle prevented him from practicing, and the running back was downgraded to questionable on Minnesota's injury report. If Bennett sits out Sunday at Chicago, Moe Williams will be the starter.

Linebacker Chris Claiborne, who has been bothered all season by a sore Achilles' tendon, was downgraded to questionable.

BILLS: Tight end Dave Moore missed his second straight practice because of a strained right hamstring and is uncertain for Sunday's game at Tennessee. Coach Gregg Williams said Moore's playing status will be a game-time decision.

Receiver Eric Moulds returned to practice after being sent home ill Thursday and is expected to play.

BUCCANEERS: General manager Rich McKay, who has clashed with coach Jon Gruden, could wind up with Atlanta after receiving permission to speak with other teams about becoming their GM.

"People's visions and people's goals don't always stay the same," said Gruden, who denied a rift between him and McKay is forcing a split. "My focus is on winning football games. If his goals are elsewhere, I certainly wish him well. He's outstanding at what he does, and I'm sure he'll continue to be."

BROWNS: Coach Butch Davis tried to end rumors that he is a candidate for the Nebraska job. "I would like to finish my career here," Davis said. "... I have no interest in the Nebraska job."

PATRIOTS: Punter Ken Walter, who was cut Dec. 2 - two days after averaging 27.3 yards on three kicks in a 38-34 win at Indianapolis - was re-signed.

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