Injuries and practice limitations dominated the headlines this week as teams across the NFL prepared for the upcoming weekend. Star players and vital contributors to their respective squads faced various setbacks, impacting their availability and practice participation.
Bengals Update
The Cincinnati Bengals had mixed news coming out of practice this week. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was limited, but quarterback Joe Burrow participated fully, signaling readiness for the game. The duo's performance is crucial for the Bengals' offensive success, and Burrow's full participation bodes well for their preparation.
Packers' Estimations
The Green Bay Packers had a hefty list of limited players, including Romeo Doubs and Tucker Kraft. Doubs' limitations spanned two consecutive days, while Kraft’s limitation on Wednesday was noted as a new development. However, it's important to mention that the Packers did not practice, and these limitations were reportedly estimations rather than confirmed statuses.
Significant Absences
Elsewhere, the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced notable absences. Devin White was ruled out due to an ankle injury, paving the way for Nakobe Dean to make his fifth career start. For the Buccaneers, kicker Chase McLaughlin did not practice due to a hip injury, leaving the team currently without a kicker on their practice squad.
Wide Receiver Woes
For the Arizona Cardinals, Marquise Brown's shoulder injury leaves the team without one of their primary offensive weapons. Additionally, the Indianapolis Colts were without wide receiver Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay, adding to their injury concerns. However, the Colts moved proactively by re-signing Spencer Shrader to the practice squad.
Falcons and Steelers Limitations
The Atlanta Falcons saw both Kyle Pitts and Nate Landman limited in practice, while the Pittsburgh Steelers dealt with limitations for Troy Fautanu, Roman Wilson, and Jaylen Warren. Mitchell Trubisky was another name on the list, dealing with a knee problem that limited his practice time.
Key Quotes
In Chicago, Bears GM Ryan Poles reassured fans by stating, "Allen’s injury would not impact his Week 1 status," highlighting optimism about Keenan Allen's availability. Meanwhile, Saints coach Kevin O'Connell provided updates on his team members. He said, "Jordan Addison moved around well and that they anticipate increasing his workload as the week progresses." Additionally, O'Connell commented on Jalen Nailor, noting, "Jalen Nailor is a bit behind Addison but is progressing well."
Panthers Activity
The Carolina Panthers had their share of practice absences, including Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble. Miles Sanders was also limited due to a finger injury. To bolster their lineup, the Panthers signed rookie Messiah Swinson off the Packers' practice squad, a move indicative of their need to shore up depth amid injury concerns.
Additional Notable Injuries
Texans safety M.J. Stewart did not practice due to a knee injury, while Colts' Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay were similarly absent. Daniel Thomas from another squad was limited because of an Achilles injury. For the Commanders, both Daron Payne and Marcus Mariota were limited in practice sessions.
Saints and Giants Reports
The New Orleans Saints reported limitations for Willie Gay Jr., Pete Werner, and Marshon Lattimore. Over in New York, Giants players Drew Lock, Micah McFadden, Dane Belton, and Gunner Olszewski were also limited in practice, signaling potential lineup adjustments ahead of their next game.
Other Team News
On the positive side, the Dolphins reported that Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are free of any injury designations, indicating they should be fully available for their next outing. Cleveland Browns had eight players on limited practice schedules, a significant number that could impact their weekend performance.
Excitement in Denver
Amid the injury reports, there was a noteworthy announcement from the Broncos. Bo Nix was named the team's first rookie captain since 1967, a testament to his leadership and contributions to the team in a short span.
As teams navigate these challenges, the decisions made by coaching staff and medical teams will be crucial in determining the readiness and performance of players heading into the weekend. The availability of these key players will undoubtedly shape the outcomes of the games in this highly competitive NFL season.