Lions’ Calvin Johnson says knee is improving

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Banged-up Detroit Lions star Calvin Johnson said his knee is feeling better than it did this time last week.

Johnson toughed out Detroit’s 31-14 victory over Jacksonville on Sunday, catching seven passes for 129 yards after taking a pain-killing shot in his left knee.

The All-Pro receiver is on pace to post similar numbers to last season in catches and yards — although he has only one touchdown reception this season.

Detroit plays at Minnesota this weekend. In their Sept. 30 matchup, Johnson was hit in the head and neck area by Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway. He also was hit in the end zone in that game, failing to hold on to a potential touchdown.

Johnson says he had some “nerve damage” after that game but is feeling OK now.

Bears‘ Tillman says he’ll play

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Chicago Bears star cornerback Charles Tillman said on Twitter that he will play Sunday against the Houston Texans, after all.

Tillman’s status had been up in the air after he told Chicago radio station WSCR-AM that he might not be available because his wife, Jackie, is due to give birth.

But in a message to ESPN Radio’s “Mike & Mike In The Morning” show, he wrote “god, family, football… Baby is coming Monday don’t worry I’ll be there Sunday.”

This will be the couple’s fourth child.

Around the league

RAIDERS: Seven-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Richard Seymour (hamstring) missed his second straight practice Thursday and is questionable to play in Baltimore on Sunday. The 12th-year veteran already was on a light practice schedule as a result of his troublesome knees.

BILLS: Buffalo defensive end Chris Kelsay hurt his neck in practice, leaving the 10-year veteran’s status uncertain for Sunday’s game at New England. The Bills (3-5) already are depleted at defensive end in preparing to play the Patriots. Starter Mark Anderson (left knee) will miss his fourth game.

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