T.O. says he's good to go.
Philadelphia Eagles receiver Terrell Owens told ESPN's Michael Irvin on Thursday that, barring any unforeseen setbacks, he will definitely play in Super Bowl XXXIX.
Owens made more progress on Thursday, running on the field in the Eagles' indoor practice facility. When he returned with Eagles trainer Rick Burkholder, Owens -- who was within earshot of several players and members of the media -- shouted, "Everybody said I couldn't do it, Rick. But it's going down."
Owens' proclamation comes two days after his doctor said he wouldn't clear the Pro Bowler to play in the Super Bowl. Dr. Mark Myerson said Tuesday that he's pleased with Owens' recuperation but maintains the surgery requires a recovery period of eight to 10 weeks. Myerson said in a statement Tuesday night that any attempt to accelerate the rehabilitation process poses the same risk for injury.
"We understand Dr. Myerson's point of view. It's just that our risk-reward is different than his risk-reward," Burkholder said. "He has great risk in clearing Terrell to play and no reward. We think there's some risk and we think there's great reward, so right now we're going to progress with his rehab."
For his part, Owens has appeared intent to play in the Super Bowl since the Eagles won the NFC championship game.
"What a lot of people don't realize is that I've been doing a lot of rehab on my own, a lot of healing on my own, but spiritually God is healing me and I'm way ahead of where a lot of people expect me to be, even the doctor," Owens said Monday. "He's even shocked at what he's seen. Spiritually I've been healed and I believe that I'll be out there on that field Sunday, regardless of what anyone
says."
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.