Tampa, FL (My Sportsbook) - Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety John Lynch missed his second straight practice on Thursday because of a knee injury and is questionable for Sunday's game against Cleveland.

Lynch, who has not missed a game since midway through the 1998 season, was hurt in last week's game against Atlanta. He is sixth on the team with 31 tackles.

John Howell, in his second year out of Colorado State, would likely get the start if Lynch is unable to play.

"If John needs to be the starter, he'll be a good starting safety for us," said Bucs head coach Jon Gruden.

The Bucs could also be without defensive tackle Anthony McFarland, who also missed practice on Thursday because of an ankle sprain and is listed as questionable for Sunday.

"[They've improved] a little bit," said Gruden of McFarland and Lynch. "I wouldn't say dramatically, or they'd be practicing because those are two of the toughest guys that you could ever coach. Those guys have legitimate injuries and right know it's questionable that they're going to be able to play in a game."

Offensive tackle Kenyatta Walker, who missed the last two games because of a high ankle sprain, practiced on both Wednesday and Thursday and could return to the lineup for Sunday's game. Cornell Green has filled in for Walker the past two games.

"Kenyatta had a good day physically, and we'll see who starts the game," Gruden said. "We'll probably decide Friday or Saturday."