The initial quarter of the NFL season is nearing its end, and injuries are accumulating across the league. The Detroit Lions will be without edge rusher Marcus Davenport and linebacker Derrick Barnes for an extended period, while the Philadelphia Eagles may have to cope without both starting wide receivers, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, in this week’s matchups.
The Cleveland Browns are keeping a close eye on defensive end Myles Garrett’s recovery this week, as he’s dealing with multiple injuries (Achilles, foot, thigh). Meanwhile, the Dolphins are facing uncertainty at the quarterback position ahead of their Monday night game, with Skylar Thompson (ribs) questionable to play. They might have to rely on their third quarterback in four games.
The Green Bay Packers are diligently tracking quarterback Jordan Love’s (knee) status before their Week 4 clash against the undefeated Minnesota Vikings. Love has been practicing after missing the previous two weeks, both of which resulted in victories for Green Bay under backup Malik Willis.
As always, the injury report for all games in Week 4 will be available, highlighting crucial injuries for each team as the list expands weekly.
All NFL odds sourced from SportsLine consensus.
Cowboys (-5.5) at Giants (Thursday night)
The Giants will be missing their starting nickel cornerback, Phillips, during this short week. Isaiah Simmons is anticipated to step into that position, especially with Jackson also unavailable. Though the Giants will be short on cornerbacks, they still have Cordale Flott, Deonte Banks, and Nick McCloud available. Slayton’s limited practice throughout the week might open the door for Jalin Hyatt.
With Carson listed as doubtful—observed during the week with a bag of ice on his shoulder—the Cowboys may need to turn to Andrew Booth Jr. or shift starting nickel corner Jourdan Lewis to the outside. Neither Carson nor Bell participated in the final practice on Wednesday.
New Orleans is hopeful that Kamara can participate on Sunday, but the team will be without starting center Erik McCoy, who has been placed on injured reserve due to a groin injury sustained during Week 3 against the Eagles.
Atlanta has added a few more offensive players to the Thursday injury report, and Judon’s inclusion is significant given his role in the Falcons’ pass rush.
- Bengals: QB Joe Burrow (wrist) FULL, WR Ja’Marr Chase (shoulder) FULL, DE Trey Hendrickson (illness) DNP, DT B.J. Hill (hamstring) DNP, TE Tanner Hudson (knee) DNP, DT Sheldon Rankins (hamstring) DNP, DL Kris Jenkins (thumb) FULL, LB Joe Bachie (wrist) FULL
- Panthers: RB Chuba Hubbard (rest) LIMITED, LB Jadeveon Clowney (rest) FULL, DT A’Shawn Robinson (knee) LIMITED, CB Lonnie Johnson (hip) DNP, G Damien Lewis (elbow) DNP, DT Shy Tuttle (foot) DNP, S Nick Scott (quadriceps) LIMITED, WR Diontae Johnson (groin) DNP, OL Taylor Moton (rest) DNP
Cincinnati is noting quarterback Joe Burrow on the injury report regarding his wrist, which had a season-ending issue last year. However, he is practicing fully, so there are no concerns. Ja’Marr Chase returned to full practice on Thursday and is expected to play.
Two defensive tackles, A’Shawn Robinson
Both Shy Tuttle and Johnson are dealing with lower body injuries, resulting in their absence from practice on Wednesday and Thursday. Johnson’s appearance on the injury report raises concerns, especially since the Panthers just placed Adam Thielen on injured reserve. However, Clowney’s return to a full practice after taking Wednesday off is encouraging.
- Bengals: OT Darnell Wright (back) LIMITED, DE Darrell Taylor (knee/illness) DNP, CB Terell Smith (hip) DNP, DT Zacch Pickens (groin) DNP, WR Keenan Allen (heel) LIMITED, DT Andrew Billings (knee) DNP, FB Khari Blasingame (hand/knee) LIMITED, G Nate Davis (groin) FULL, OT Braxton Jones (knee) LIMITED, DE Montez Sweat (elbow) FULL, DB Kevin Byard (back) DNP, TE Marcedes Lewis (rest) DNP, WR Rome Odunze (hip) LIMITED
- Rams: WR Cooper Kupp (ankle) DNP, TE Davis Allen (back) LIMITED, OL Logan Bruss (finger) FULL
This week’s injury report for Chicago is extensive, with significant changes noted on Thursday. Byard did not practice, and Odunze was limited, while Wright and Sweat were both upgraded to limited and full participation, respectively. Billings shifted from limited to out.
“It’s great,” quarterback Caleb Williams stated via NBC Sports Chicago. “His return will significantly benefit our offense. It’s one more player for the defense to account for throughout the week and on game day. His exceptional ability to create separation in tight spaces will be invaluable for us.”
The Rams have not yet published their Thursday injury report, but Kupp’s ongoing absence from Wednesday’s practice was anticipated.
- Vikings: C Garrett Bradbury (ankle) LIMITED, LB Ivan Pace Jr. (ankle) DNP, S Jay Ward (knee) DNP, WR Jordan Addison (ankle) LIMITED, DE Jonathan Bullard (knee) DNP, LB Dallas Turner (knee) FULL, LB Kamu Grugier-Hill (knee) LIMITED, TE Josh Oliver (wrist) LIMITED, QB Sam Darnold (knee) FULL, OL Christian Darrisaw (illness) DNP
- Packers: QB Jordan Love (knee) LIMITED, CB Jaire Alexander (quadricep) LIMITED, DL Kenny Clark (toe) LIMITED, G Elgton Jenkins (rest) LIMITED, TE Tucker Kraft (shoulder) LIMITED, TE Luke Musgrave (quad) LIMITED, C Josh Myers (shoulder) LIMITED, WR Jayden Reed (calf/quadricep) LIMITED, OT Zach Tom (quad) LIMITED, CB Carrington Valentine (ankle) LIMITED
Minnesota remains optimistic about the availability of their No. 2 receiver, Jordan Addison (ankle), for the Sunday matchup against the Packers, as reported by head coach Kevin O’Connell. Starting center Garrett Bradbury (ankle) and linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. (ankle) were absent from practice on Wednesday, but Bradbury improved to limited status on Thursday. Turner also moved to full participation, while Bullard dropped from limited to out, and Darrisaw did not practice on Thursday.
The majority of the Packers’ starting offense, including quarterback Jordan Love, practiced in a limited capacity on both Wednesday and Thursday. His availability will be crucial as they face a Vikings defense that currently leads the NFL in sacks (16) and quarterback pressures (54).
He’ll be a decision made at game time, according to head coach Matt LaFleur.
In recent victories against the Colts and Titans, Malik Willis has proven to be an exceptional fill-in. With an impressive 9.8 yards per pass attempt and 9.5 yards per carry, he leads the NFL since Week 2 among players with at least 12 attempts in each category. Remarkably, Willis is only the fourth player in the past 50 years to top the league in both statistics over a two-week period, joining the ranks of Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts in 2022, Titans quarterback Steve McNair in 1997, and Eagles quarterback Randall Cunningham in 1987.
- Texans: WR Nico Collins (hamstring) LIMITED, WR Tank Dell (chest) DNP, DL Folorunso Fatukasi (shoulder) LIMITED, OL Kenyon Green (illness) FULL, RB Joe Mixon (ankle) DNP, OL Jarrett Patterson (calf) FULL, RB Dameon Pierce (hamstring) DNP, TE Dalton Schultz (ankle) FULL, DB Jimmie Ward (groin) DNP
- Jaguars: TE Evan Engram (hamstring) DNP, RB Tank Bigsby (shoulder) LIMITED, DB Darnell Savage (quadriceps) LIMITED, OL Cam Robinson (knee) LIMITED, WR Gabe Davis (shoulder) LIMITED, OL Anton Harrison (knee) LIMITED, LB Foye Oluokun (foot) DNP, DB Jarrian Jones (shoulder) LIMITED, DB Montaric Brown (chest) LIMITED, LB Devin Lloyd (knee) DNP
This AFC South matchup appears to resemble a M.A.S.H. unit currently. Collins was newly listed on the Texans’ injury report, which already included three other offensive starters, while Ward’s status dropped from limited on Wednesday to out on Thursday. Additionally, after competing in a Monday night game, nearly the entire Jaguars secondary is now on the injury report, along with both starting tackles, two skill position starters, and a backup running back. Not to mention, both starting linebackers are listed as well.
- Steelers: QB Russell Wilson (calf) LIMITED, WR Roman Wilson (ankle) FULL, WR Van Jefferson (eye) FULL, RB Najee Harris (rest) FULL, DB DeShon Elliott (quadriceps) FULL, DB Donte Jackson (rest) FULL, RB Jaylen Warren (knee) DNP, LB Alex Highsmith (groin) DNP, OL Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) LIMITED, TE MyCole Pruitt (knee) DNP, LB T.J. Watt (rest) DNP, DL Cameron Heyward (rest) DNP, Larry Ogunjobi (rest) DNP, DB Miles Killebrew (rest) DNP, RB/KR Cordarrelle Patterson (rest) DNP
- Colts: DB Chris Lammons (knee/ankle) DNP, DB Kenny Moore II (hip) DNP, DL Kwity Paye (quadriceps) DNP, OL Braden Smith (knee) FULL, DL Tyquan Lewis (calf/wrist) DNP, LB Grant Stuard (heel) FULL, OL Ryan Kelly (neck) DNP
As anticipated for the Steelers, many players were given a day off on Thursday. The Colts are already facing a defensive shortage with the absence of DeForest Buckner and JuJu Brents, leaving them in a challenging position on that side of the field. Kelly did not practice on Thursday after having no prior participation in Wednesday’s report.
Reynolds participated fully in practice on Thursday, but the rest of the injury report remained consistent with Wednesday.
- Eagles: WR A.J. Brown (hamstring) DNP, WR DeVonta Smith (concussion) DNP, OL Lane Johnson (concussion) DNP, G Landon Dickerson (wrist) FULL, G Mekhi Becton (finger) FULL, DB Darius Slay (knee) FULL, DL Milton Williams (groin) LIMITED
- Buccaneers: OL Graham Barton (ankle) FULL, LB K.J. Britt (knee) FULL, DB Jamel Dean (knee) FULL, LB Yaya Di
- Bucs: DL Pat O’Connor (abdominal) FULL, WR Mike Evans (knee) LIMITED, WR Chris Godwin (neck) LIMITED, DL William Gholston (knee) LIMITED, OL Luke Goedeke (concussion) FULL, DL Logan Hall (foot) FULL, RB Bucky Irving (hamstring) DNP, WR Kameron Johnson (ankle) LIMITED, DL Calijah Kancey (calf) DNP, TE Ko Kieft (ankle) DNP, DL Vita Vea (knee) LIMITED, DB Antoine Winfield Jr. (foot) DNP, OL Tristan Wirfs (knee) LIMITED, DL Greg Gaines (ankle) LIMITED
It appears increasingly likely that Philadelphia’s three offensive stars will miss Sunday’s game, but Becton informed CBS Sports that he plans to play. Tampa Bay is coping with numerous player issues, yet the return of Goedeke to practice is encouraging as he seems to be making progress in the concussion protocol. Although Irving missed Thursday’s practice, he assured reporters of his intention to play.
- Chiefs: The Chiefs report no injuries.
- Chargers: OL Joe Alt (knee) DNP, LB Joey Bosa (hip) DNP, LB Junior Colson (hamstring) DNP, WR Derius Davis (hamstring) DNP, DB Kristian Fulton (knee) LIMITED, QB Justin Herbert (ankle) LIMITED, TE Hayden Hurst (Achilles) LIMITED, LB Khalil Mack (rest) FULL, DL Otito Ogbonnia (neck) FULL, WR Josh Palmer (elbow/calf) FULL, OL Trey Pipkins (foot) LIMITED, OL Rashawn Slater (pectoral) DNP, TE Stone Smartt (finger) FULL, DB Ja’Sir Taylor (fibula) LIMITED
The Chiefs currently stand as the healthiest team in the league, at least regarding their active roster. The Chargers could find themselves missing both starting tackles and their quarterback, although Herbert expressed confidence it wouldn’t come to that for him. With a bye week approaching in Week 5, however, sitting him out might be the more prudent choice. They also have to navigate a slew of defensive injuries.
Browns at Raiders (-2)
- Browns: OL Joel Bitonio (knee) LIMITED, OL Jack Conklin (hamstring) DNP, OL Javion Cohen (back) LIMITED, RB Jerome Ford (knee) LIMITED, DB Mike Ford (knee) LIMITED, DL Myles Garrett (foot/Achilles/thigh) LIMITED, LB Jordan Hicks (ribs/elbow) DNP, OL James Hudson (shoulder) DNP, OL Dawand Jones (knee) DNP, WR Jerry Jeudy (knee) FULL, TE David Njoku (ankle) LIMITED, LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (hand) FULL, RB Pierre Strong (hamstring) DNP, DL Dalvin Tomlinson (thigh) DNP, DB Denzel Ward (shoulder) FULL, OL Jedrick Wills (knee) DNP, DL Alex Wright (triceps) DNP
- Raiders: DE Maxx Crosby (ankle) DNP, LB Divine Deablo (oblique) DNP, OL Thayer Munford (knee/ankle) DNP, OL Kolton Miller (shoulder) FULL, DB Decamerion Richardson (hamstring) DNP, DL Tyree Wilson (knee) FULL, DL Christian Wilkins (knee) FULL, TE Michael Mayer (personal) DNP, LB Kana’i Mauga (calf) LIMITED, WR Davante Adams (hamstring) LIMITED
The offensive line of the Browns is facing significant injury challenges, although Njoku was finally upgraded to limited participation on Thursday. The emergence of Adams as limited, in addition to Crosby missing the first two practices of the week, casts a concerning shadow over the Raiders.
- Bills: QB Josh Allen (left hand) FULL, LB Terrel Bernard (pectoral) LIMITED, DB Kaiir Elam (neck) LIMITED, OL Tylan Grable (groin) DNP, DB Taron Johnson (forearm) DNP, TE Quintin Morris (shoulder) FULL, QB Mitchell Trubisky (knee) FULL
- Ravens: DB Jalyn
- Armour-Davis (hamstring) DNP, O Daniel Faalele (hip) FULL, OL Tyler Linderbaum (knee) LIMITED, OL Patrick Mekari (neck) FULL, DL Michael Pierce (shoulder) FULL, LB Josh Ross (hip) FULL, LB Roquan Smith (ankle) FULL, OL Andrew Vorhees (ankle) DNP, DB Ar’Darius Washington (ankle) FULL
The Bills saw only one update on Thursday, with Bernard returning to limited practice, which is crucial as they prepare for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. On the other hand, the Ravens welcomed back Linderbaum, Mekari, Pierce, and Smith in practice after they had either missed or participated in a limited capacity on Wednesday.
Titans at Dolphins (-1) (Monday night)
Analysis to come
Seahawks at Lions (-3.5) (Monday night)
Analysis to come
Week 4 NFL Injury Report: Key Player Updates and Impacts on Matchups
Understanding the Importance of Injury Reports in the NFL
In the fast-paced world of the NFL, injuries can significantly impact team performance and game outcomes. As we navigate through Week 4, understanding the latest injury updates is crucial for fans, fantasy football players, and betting enthusiasts alike. This article provides an in-depth look at key injuries, their potential effects on upcoming matchups, and practical tips on how to navigate these changes.
Key Injury Updates
This week has seen a mix of minor and serious injuries affecting star players across the league. Here are some of the most notable updates:
Quarterback Injuries
- Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs) – Ankle Injury
Status: Probable
Impact: Mahomes has been managing an ankle sprain but is expected to play. His mobility will be crucial against a tough defense.
- Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers) – Rib Injury
Status: Questionable
Impact: Herbert’s rib injury may limit his ability to throw effectively. If he sits out, backup Chase Daniel could step in, which would dramatically change the Chargers’ offensive dynamics.
Wide Receiver Updates
- Davante Adams (Las Vegas Raiders) - Hamstring Injury
Status: Doubtful
Impact: Adams’ absence would leave a significant hole in the Raiders’ passing attack. Look for Hunter Renfrow to step up as the primary target.
- Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins) – Quadriceps Injury
Status: Probable
Impact: Hill is likely to play, and his speed could exploit the opposing defense, especially if the Dolphins can establish their run game early.
Running Back News
- Saquon Barkley (New York Giants) – Ankle Injury
Status: Out
Impact: Barkley’s absence will heavily affect the Giants’ offense, making them more predictable. Look for Matt Breida to take the lead in the backfield.
- Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers) – Hamstring Injury
Status: Questionable
Impact: Ekeler’s versatility is key. If he can’t go, it opens up opportunities for backup Joshua Kelley, but the offense might struggle to maintain its usual pace.
Injury Impact on Matchups
Understanding how these injuries will affect matchups is essential for strategic planning, whether you’re betting on games or making fantasy football decisions. Here’s a breakdown of key matchups affected by injuries:
Chiefs vs. Colts
| Team | Key Injuries | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City Chiefs | Patrick Mahomes (Probable) | Strong chance of victory if Mahomes plays at full capacity. |
| Indianapolis Colts | Jonathan Taylor (Out) | Colts may struggle to establish the run game, allowing Chiefs to focus on stopping the pass. |
Dolphins vs. Raiders
| Team | Key Injuries | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Dolphins | Tyreek Hill (Probable) | Hill playing enhances the deep-ball threat, crucial for exploiting Raiders’ secondary. |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Davante Adams (Doubtful) | Without Adams, the passing attack weakens, likely forcing the Raiders to lean on the run, which may not be effective. |
Practical Tips for Navigating Injury Reports
Managing player injuries is essential for success in fantasy leagues and betting. Here are some practical tips:
- Stay Updated: Follow reliable sports news sources for real-time injury updates.
- Consider Backup Options: Always have a list of potential backup players who could fill in for injured starters.
- Evaluate Matchups: Look at how opposing defenses perform against affected positions before making lineup decisions.
- Use Injury Reports Strategically: In betting, knowing who is injured can give you an edge in making informed wagers.
Case Studies: Previous Weeks’ Injuries and their Outcomes
Analyzing past injuries can offer insights into how current injuries may play out. Here are a few notable examples:
Case Study 1: Week 2 - Dak Prescott’s Injury
When Prescott suffered a shoulder injury in Week 2, the Dallas Cowboys had to pivot their game plan. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush stepped up, leading the Cowboys to a victory over the Minnesota Vikings, showcasing the importance of depth in the quarterback position.
Case Study 2: Week 3 – Christian McCaffrey’s Ankle Sprain
McCaffrey’s ankle sprain in Week 3 caused panic among fantasy owners. The Panthers, lacking their star running back, relied more on their passing game, which ultimately affected their overall performance. This situation highlighted how a single injury can transform a team’s offensive identity.
First-Hand Experience: The Impact of Injuries on My Fantasy Team
As a dedicated fantasy football player, I’ve experienced the rollercoaster of injuries firsthand. Just last season, I had to replace my starting quarterback due to a last-minute injury report. I paid close attention to the backup’s performance in practice and made the switch just in time. This proactive approach allowed me to secure a win that week. Being adaptable and staying informed can make all the difference in fantasy football.
Conclusion
As we head into Week 4 of the NFL season, staying informed about player injuries is paramount. The adjustments teams make in response to these injuries can shift the outcome of games and influence fantasy football standings. Keep an eye on the injury report, adapt your strategies, and enjoy the thrilling unpredictability that the NFL delivers each week.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Week 4 NFL injury report, key player updates, and their impacts on matchups while optimizing for SEO and maintaining an engaging tone.
