Jets coach Rex Ryan thinks LB David Harris will play Saturday despite sprained ankle

Jets’ Ryan optimistic LB Harris will play

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets coach Rex Ryan is optimistic David Harris will play in the team’s playoff game Saturday at Cincinnati even though the linebacker missed a second straight day of practice with a sprained right ankle.

“I think he’ll go just because of the guy he is,” Ryan said Wednesday. “I know he’s jogging on it, so hopefully he’ll be able to practice maybe, but more importantly, play.”

Harris, the Jets’ leading tackler, wasn’t on the field for practice or on the stationary bikes while the team worked outdoors.

“It’s a big concern,” defensive coordinator Mike Pettine said. “I know it’s encouraging he’s starting to run a little bit today, but at this time of year, you want to be healthy and all guns-a-blazin’. For us to have one of our key guys a game-time decision is an issue for us.”

Harris, one of the leaders of the NFL’s top-ranked defense, injured the ankle during the first half of the regular-season finale against Cincinnati on Sunday. He watched from the sideline in the second half.

His backup, Ryan Fowler, was limited in practice after taking a blow to the head in the 37-0 win over the Bengals. If either Harris or Fowler can’t go, Kenwin Cummings would step in and make his NFL debut.

Running back Thomas Jones, who set a career high with 1,402 yards rushing, was a full participant in practice despite being listed on the injury report with a knee ailment.

“He’s going to play, you know that,” Ryan said. “He just had a little swelling in the knee.”

Wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery (hip), defensive end Shaun Ellis (knee) and cornerback Donald Strickland (quadriceps) were limited, while punter Steve Weatherford (right hamstring) was a full participant after resting Tuesday.