Florham Park, NJ (My Sportsbook) - New York Jets center Nick Mangold was held out of practice again Thursday because of a high ankle sprain, but head coach Rex Ryan said there have been signs of improvement.

"He seems to be getting better each day," Ryan said.

Mangold missed Sunday's 34-24 loss in Oakland, ending his streak of 82 straight games played.

Mangold was hurt during the first quarter of a Week 2 win over Jacksonville and did not practice at all last week. Prior to Sunday, he had started every game at center since the Jets picked him 29th overall in the 2006 draft.

Cornerback Antonio Cromartie was a full participant in Thursday's practice after sitting out the day before because of a rib injury.

"I thought he had a really good day out there," said Ryan. "I think he had like three interceptions, so it was good to see."

Ryan said wide receiver Plaxico Burress, who was limited because of a hamstring injury, was experiencing a little tightness.