Shields, a 13-year veteran, debated during the offseason about whether to retire or play one more year. He said in an interview on Thursday that his hesitation “was more physical than anything else.”

Vermeil said Saturday that Shields would see another doctor for what amounts to a third opinion on his ongoing back problem. Asked if he was worried that Shields might not play at all this year, Vermeil said, “I think you always have to have a little concerned.”