Westbrook among three Eagles starters ruled out

PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid ruled three starting offensive players out for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers: halfback Brian Westbrook (ribs), guard Shawn Andrews (back) and wide receiver Reggie Brown (groin). "Brian wants to go. He's in the mindset that he wants to play, but it's a decision that I've got to make," Reid said Friday. "He's a tough nut and I know that. I've got to do what I think is best for him and the football team down the road. It made the decision a little easier for me than it is for him. Obviously, he wants to contribute and compete." Westbrook leads the Eagles (2-3) with 194 yards rushing and has six touchdowns, two receiving. He should return on Oct. 26 after a bye week. "I think the bye week will help him," Reid said. "I think it will take some of the sting out of that thing. If he were to get hit on it this week, it would slow down the process of healing." Also ruled out was backup safety J.R. Reed. If that wasn't bad enough, Reid still has questions about the availability of wide receiver Kevin Curtis (sports hernia) and defensive end Juqua Parker (knee). They were listed as questionable. Curtis has a decent chance of playing. He had a full practice Friday. Parker sat out Friday's practice and is very questionable. Tight end L.J. Smith will be available as a starter despite a sore back.