Mark Sanchez's headfirst dive gave the New York Jets a big first down - and a huge scare.

Rest easy, Rex. "The Sanchise" isn't seriously injured.

Sanchez might be able to play in New York's next game after spraining the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the Jets' 19-13 win over the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night. Coach Rex Ryan said a magnetic resonance imaging Friday revealed the severity of the injury, which could have been much worse.

"I feel good that it sounds like he's going to be healthy," Ryan said. "I think that is the best news we could've hoped for."

Ryan said Sanchez will initially wear a brace to stabilize the knee, and is optimistic the rookie could be ready to go at Tampa Bay on Dec. 13. Because New York played Thursday, it has 10 days before its next game - giving Sanchez extra time to heal. That could be good news for the Jets (6-6), who kept their slim playoff hopes alive with the win over the Bills.

REDSKINS: Running back Clinton Portis continues to show symptoms from a concussion and will return to see a specialist in Pittsburgh next week to evaluate his progress. Portis was hurt Nov. 8 against Atlanta and will miss his fourth consecutive game Sunday.

BEARS: Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs (sprained left knee) is doubtful against St. Louis and left tackle Orlando Pace (groin) likely won't play.

DOLPHINS: Linebacker Joey Porter (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New England.

EAGLES: Wide receiver DeSean Jackson was ruled out of Sunday's game against Atlanta. Jackson, who leads the team with eight TDs, suffered a concussion in last week's win over Washington.

GIANTS: The struggling club continued to tinker with its defensive line, demoting defensive end Osi Umenyiora and defensive tackle Fred Robbins to the second unit during practice. Mathias Kiwanuka replaced Umenyiora, and Chris Canty took Robbins' place on the first unit.