Practice squad linebacker Jeff Tarpinian had the “championship belt” in his locker on Monday, which reflects he was likely picked by coaches as the top practice player of last week. Wondered if Tarpinian might get a promotion with Dont’a Hightower’s hamstring injury putting his status for Sunday’s game in question, but Comcast SportsNet reported veteran Bobby Carpenter is expected back instead. Carpenter’s experience on defense and special teams might have been preferred, especially given the chess match this week against Peyton Manning.