Philadelphia ? Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb is doubtful to start against New England after missing his third straight practice Friday because of a sprained ankle and injured thumb.

McNabb hurt the thumb on his throwing hand early against Miami last Sunday and left after injuring his ankle in the second quarter.

A.J. Feeley, who led the Eagles to a pair of touchdowns in a 17-7 win over the Dolphins, would start if McNabb can’t play. A decision might not come until shortly before kickoff.

“He’s gotten a little better each day, so that’s a positive,” coach Andy Reid said.

McNabb has started every game since returning ahead of schedule after a torn knee ligament ended his season early last year. Injuries ended his regular season three times in the past six years. The Eagles are 13-8 without him, including 1-1 in the playoffs last season.

Reid said he was comfortable starting McNabb, even though he didn’t practice this week.

“If I feel like he can get out there and function, I would go in that direction,” Reid said.