This week's NFL practice reports have provided a whirlwind of updates ahead of the upcoming games, affecting several teams and their key players in varying capacities. From limited practices to outright absences, injury concerns are shaping the lineup decisions for many franchises.
Bengals' Roller Coaster
The Cincinnati Bengals experienced mixed emotions on the practice field. Star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase was a limited participant, raising some concern among fans. On a brighter note, quarterback Joe Burrow, who has been dealing with injuries, was a full participant, highlighting a positive development as the team gears up for a crucial stretch of games.
Pain in Phoenix
In Arizona, the Cardinals have been hit with significant injury woes. Marquise Brown has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury. Additionally, Adisa Isaac and Rasheen Ali are also sidelined with hamstring and neck injuries, respectively. These absences could pose a significant challenge to the Cardinals' depth and performance.
Packers Manage Expectations
The Green Bay Packers reported limitations for six players, including notable names like Romeo Doubs and Tucker Kraft. Doubs has been limited for two consecutive days, which may cause some concern for fans. Kraft’s limitations on Wednesday were a fresh development, adding to the team's injury narrative. It's important to note, though, that the Packers did not practice, and these designations were mere estimates.
Defensive Concerns
For the Buccaneers, the injury list includes significant names such as Devin White, who has been ruled out due to an ankle injury. In his absence, Nakobe Dean is set to make his fifth career start, filling in a critical role on the defense. Meanwhile, the defensive woes continue for the Saints and the Commanders, with Willie Gay Jr., Pete Werner, Marshon Lattimore, Daron Payne, and Marcus Mariota all limited in practice.
Steelers and Falcons Updates
The Steelers reported that Troy Fautanu, Roman Wilson, and Jaylen Warren were limited in practice sessions. The Falcons also have issues to contend with as Kyle Pitts and Nate Landman were limited, adding pressure to their upcoming game preparations.
Colts Shuffle the Deck
The Indianapolis Colts saw wide receiver Josh Downs and kicker Matt Gay absent from practice, leading the team to re-sign Spencer Shrader to the practice squad. This strategic move aims to bolster their lineup, especially given their numerous absences. Isaac Seumalo did not practice and seems unlikely to play, adding another layer to the Colts' challenges.
Bears' Key Players
Keenan Allen’s participation was cautious in practice for the Bears; however, Bears GM Ryan Poles emphasized that “Allen’s injury would not impact his Week 1 status.” Montez Sweat, also limited in practice, seems to be managing his participation carefully.
Pivotal Recoveries
One positive note for Patriots fans is that Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle have no injury designations, suggesting they are set to take the field at full strength. However, Jonathan Jones, Vederian Lowe, and Sidy Sow were limited, with Sow not practicing at all.
Texans and Giants
Texans safety M.J. Stewart and Drew Lock, Micah McFadden, Dane Belton, and Gunner Olszewski from the Giants were all limited in their respective sessions. The Giants’ tight situation was somewhat alleviated by the promising progress of Jalen Nailor, who, according to Saints coach Kevin O'Connell, “is a bit behind Addison but is progressing well.”
Miscellaneous Notes
In the broader scheme, the Seahawks grapple with Jamal Adams’ absence due to a hip injury, and the Panthers missed both Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble in practice. Miles Sanders was limited due to a finger injury, and rookie Messiah Swinson was signed off the Packers' practice squad, highlighting moves to ensure roster stability.
Notably, Bo Nix was announced as the Broncos' first rookie captain since 1967, adding a historical note to their season. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns had eight players limited in practice, with Jedrick Wills still recovering from surgery last December.
In Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers face logistical issues, currently without a kicker on their practice squad, as Logan Hall and Chase McLaughlin were absent from practice.
Overall, teams are navigating a complex web of injuries and player availability as they prepare for the matchup. The evolving situation will require close monitoring as the week's practices conclude and game day approaches.