National Football League

Arizona's Boldin optimistic, feels 'much better'

Published Jan. 12, 2010 10:27 p.m. ET

foxsports

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin says he feels much better and is optimistic about his chances of playing in Saturday's divisional playoff game at New Orleans.

Boldin said Tuesday he ``was able to move around a little bit'' for the first time since he injured his left ankle and knee in the regular-season finale against Green Bay on Jan. 3.

The three-time Pro Bowler sat out Sunday's 51-45 wild card overtime victory over the Packers because of a high left ankle sprain and a sprained left knee.

He was hopeful he could practice Wednesday or Thursday.

``It all depends on how it responds,'' he said. ``I was able to do a lot of lateral drills today. It still doesn't feel as good as I would like it to be but it's definitely an improvement.''

Arizona's offense rolled in the playoff opener, even though they were without Boldin, who surpassed 1,000 yards receiving for the fifth time in his seven-year pro career.

``I was a big cheerleader Sunday, just hoping to get one more shot so I could get out there,'' he said. ``It was a good one.''

The Cardinals are 6-1 without Boldin the last two seasons.