FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) -Tedy Bruschi’s injured right leg had improved Thursday, but secrecy surrounded the Super Bowl status of the Patriots linebacker.

“He’s feeling a lot better than he was on Monday,” New England coach Bill Belichick said. “We’ll just take it day to day.”

All season, players have followed Belichick’s policy of giving few details about injuries.

The Patriots announced only that Bruschi, a defensive captain and the team’s second-leading tackler, had a leg injury.

Bruschi was hurt on an incomplete pass in the final minutes of New England’s 24-14 win over Indianapolis in the AFC championship game and was helped off the field.

Bruschi wouldn’t say whether he has a chance to play in the Super Bowl on Feb. 1 against Carolina.

“I can’t let you in on anything,” Bruschi said Thursday.

“I’m sorry. You know how we deal with things around here, and I follow the rule.”

He did say that having an extra week to prepare for the game should help.

“I’m glad I have two weeks,” he said. “You always say a bye is good to heal your bumps and bruises and, obviously, I’ve got some.”

AP-ES-01-22-04 1432EST