Injury Update

  Updated 8/17 by Mark Wimer, Exclusive for Footballguys.com

Professional football players are often injured during the course of an NFL season, and sometimes those injuries can linger to affect a player in the following season. Below is a review of the most significant injuries still affecting fantasy-relevant skill position players as we continue through the 2009 preseason. For further details on the players listed below, check out their player pages here at Footballguys.com or run a search for the person in question on the Footballguys.com News Blogger.

Quarterbacks

CLE QB Derek Anderson (knee) did not have offseason surgery on the knee injury he suffered last season. The injury healed naturally. However, Anderson has missed most of the June OTAs due to a undisclosed injury (he's been spotted with a wrap on his lower right leg, but the team is giving out no specific details), giving Brady Quinn a lot of time under center. Fantasy owners interested in the Cleveland QBs should monitor their practice participation once training camp rolls around. According to reports out of the Browns' training camp on Thursday, August 6th Anderson has come on strong in the competition vs. Quinn over the last week and the contest is now said to be too close to call. Neither player stood out in the first preseason game and the contest remains too close to call as of 8/17/09.

BAL QB John Beck has been knocked out of training camp with a painful shoulder injury - there is no time table on his return as of 8/17. The Ravens are concerned about Beck's injured shoulder, even though an MRI showed no tears to any muscles or ligaments. The team signed Cleo Lemon to fill in for Beck until he is able to return.

NE QB Tom Brady is participating fully in the team's offseason workouts and is working without limitations on his surgically repaired knee (ACL, September 2008). He is expected to be at full speed for training camp. On May 21st, Brady commented to the press "I'm feeling great and just excited to be out there on the field, training with my teammates,' Brady said. "It's always fun being back in this competitive environment and working with these guys to try to make 2009 our best season. It's been fun to be back. I think everyone is excited to get back on the field and see what we're capable of." Brady threw passes to Joey Galloway and Randy Moss on May 26th during a light workout (no pads). On June 2nd, the surgeon who repaired Brady's knee commented 'With regard to his recovery of strength, I've never seen anything quite like it. With an average person, it would have taken probably twice as long to get range of motion and strength back,' Dr. Neal ElAttrache said. During morning practice on July 30th, Brady wore a brace on his repaired knee - he may be equipped with that item for the rest of his career, but by all accounts he is moving around well and throwing the ball with authority. Brady looked fantastic in the first preseason game, throwing 2 TDs and generally wowing most viewers. He seems to be holding up well under the rigors of training camp.

STL QB Marc Bulger is out for at least two weeks with a fracture in the pinkie finger of his throwing hand. Coach Steve Spagnuolo stressed that the fracture is not displaced. Bulger will keep the finger taped and won't participate in drills.

OAK QB Jeff Garcia (calf injury) is unlikely to play in the team's preseason opener according to reports out of the Bay area. He didn't practice on Sunday, 8/16 but is expected to return to practice on Monday, 8/17 and will remain the team's backup QB according to coach Tom Cable.

HOU QB Rex Grossman is expected to miss about a month as of 8/16 with a hamstring injury and the Texans are looking to sign another quarterback to fill in until he's healthy.

SEA QB Matt Hasselbeck said his offseason weight-training regimen has been successful (April 7th), and participated fully in the team's first minicamp in April. So far, his injured back looks healed back to 100%. He is reportedly 8 pounds lighter to open training camp this year and in great shape. Hasselbeck commented on July 27th 'I'm not worried about my back at all. The only thing my back cannot do is sit in a three-hour run-game-install meeting without getting up and moving around. Of the things I'm worried about - new coach, new offense, some new teammates - I can promise you that health is not one of them.' Hasselbeck had ice on his arm after practice Thursday, Aug. 6, but said it was preventative and his arm feels fine despite making a lot of throws so far at training camp. 'My elbow was sore early on in camp. I think all of the quarterbacks, we all were feeling that way. But the situations have helped us the last, two days with short yardage, goal line, it's just part of camp, the ups and downs of camp. I think the receivers got a break too, but I'm feeling pretty good.' Hasselbeck went 3-of-5 during the team's preseason game Saturday, Aug. 15, against the San Diego Chargers. He threw for 27 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions.

MIN QB Tarvaris Jackson suffered a left knee injury in practice on August 1st - the initial diagnosis is a level 1 MCL sprain which would mean he's day-to-day. However, knee injuries are difficult to assess immediately after an injury occurs - stay tuned to see how the joint responds with swelling and etc. in the days to come. On Friday, August 7th Jackson reported hearing something 'pop' in his injured knee and the team may elect to rest him for a few days to try and get the knee healthy again. Stay tuned if you are interested in drafting Jackson as the injury is not responding very well to practice right now as you can see. On Monday, August 10th Jackson's sprained left medial collateral ligament did not hinder him during practice. 'It's doing a lot better. We got a day off yesterday so I was able to rest it,' Jackson said. Jackson was 7-for-15 for 39 yards over five possessions during the team's preseason game Friday, Aug. 14. Jackson missed on six of his first eight passes - he commented on Saturday 'I will let the coach judge that, but honestly to me, personally, I have a lot better to get,'.

PHI QB Kevin Kolb was carted off the field on Monday 8/10 with a knee injury. It turned out to be a sprained medial collateral ligament. He will not play in the team's first preseason game, and was not scheduled to practice on Saturday, 8/15.

CIN QB Carson Palmer avoided further surgery on his injured right elbow early this year. On July 18th, Palmer asserted that his rehab was complete and that his elbow is back to 100% healthy. 'I'm great. I feel great. I'm 100 percent healthy, throwing, lifting, running all that stuff. I'm just thankful I didn't have to go through that (Tommy John surgery). The doctors who said that it would heal were right and it did heal.' he said. However, the Cincinnati Bengals may hold out Palmer of the team's preseason game Thursday, Aug. 20, as a precaution because of an ankle injury, suffered near the end of his time on the field in the Friday, August 14th preseason opener. The injury is described as a mild ankle sprain.

ARI QB Sage Rosenfels (ankle) suffered a tweaked ankle during the team's first preseason game but was able to play with the injury. He said he is fine, and the injury is not a big deal. Keep an eye on his practice time this week just in case, though.

SF QB Alex Smith threw in minicamps during April, but was seen holding his sore throwing arm shoulder (surgically repaired last November). It remains to be seen if he can get to 100% healthy in time for training camp. As of June 23rd, it was reported that Smith has made huge strides during OTAs and is consistently out-throwing and outperforming Shaun Hill. He appears to have pushed through the pain in his throwing arm shoulder and is looking good as of late June. Reports out of San Francisco on July 26th indicated that Smith was seen as having the edge to win the 49ers starting QB job, although after a week of training camp Hill has closed the gap and now the contest is viewed as fairly even. Smith was inconsistent in the first preseason game and still has yet to string together a 'complete' appearance on a game day since his injury.

IND QB Jim Sorgi limped off the practice field Friday afternoon 8/14 after straining his right hamstring. 'Sorgi has got a pretty good strain,' coach Jim Caldwell said this morning after the team's annual Blue and White controlled scrimmage. 'Not quite certain how long it's going to take him to get back, maybe two to three weeks.'

ARI QB Kurt Warner had surgery in mid-March to repair a torn labrum in his left hip. As of May 4th, he was participating in minicamp on a limited basis, and appears to be on schedule to return to full participation by training camp. Warner was cleared to participate in all activities during OTAs as of May 20th. On August 6th, Warner said during a press conference that he was playing through pain in his hip (without problems, he insisted) and was about 85% healed as of the first week of August. Warner said on 8/11/09 he does not expect to play much during the preseason, mainly because head coach Ken Whisenhunt has not let Warner play much during the past two preseasons.

Running Backs

IND RB Joseph Addai, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in the offseason, is currently working on a one-practice-a-day basis in training camp in order to ease him back into the lineup/full health. 'He looks good. Joseph is coming along well. He's moving it and his quickness is where it's been in terms of overall quickness. He's getting a little bit [better] every day. I think he's feeling comfortable after his time off,' Colts head coach Jim Caldwell said on 8/10/09.

WAS RB Anthony Alridge suffered a sprained toe during the team's scrimmage Saturday, Aug. 8, and sat out the team's morning practice Sunday, Aug. 9.

SD RB Curtis Brinkley (shoulder, back) was released from the hospital Saturday, July 11. He will need at least six to eight weeks of recovery from his gunshot wounds before being able to resume football activities. On Saturday, August 8th 23-year-old Anthony Peterson turned himself in for the shooting. He is charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault and other charges - he was romantically involved with Brinkley's sister and thought Curtis Brinkley was a rival for her affections.

NYG rookie RB Andre Brown suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in practices and he will miss the entire year as a result.

IND RB Donald Brown sat out the team's scrimmage Saturday, Aug. 8, with an undisclosed injury. Brown had five carries for 58 yards during the team's preseason game Friday, Aug. 14.

DEN RB Correll Buckhalter skipped the Sunday, 8/16/09 practice due to an unspecified injury.

NO RB Reggie Bush is said to be recovering well from his late December knee surgery (microfracture surgery/knee cartilage repair). The team has been practicing twice a day with Bush taking an occasional practice off so far. He has had some swelling in the joint early last week but the team and Bush are downplaying the severity of the swelling. 'He had some swelling, mild, not significant, but enough to where I didn't want to see that thing start to get irritated and prohibit him from being out for more than just a practice or two,' head coach Payton said. Bush said he wasn't worried, and he was taking as many as steps as he could to keep the knee healthy. Click here for an in-depth post describing the latest repair from a doctor on our MB. Bush had three carries for five yards during the team's preseason game Friday, Aug. 14.

Ex-SF RB Thomas Clayton suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee and is out for the season - he was waived on Sunday August 16th after an injury settlement with the team.

SF RB Glen Coffee did not participate in morning practice Monday, Aug. 10, because of a sore ankle. However, he looked great in the first preseason game and the injury didn't seem to be an issue.

CHI RB Matt Forte reports that the sore toe that bothered him at the end of 2008 has completely healed during the offseason. However, he tweaked his hamstring in early June and the team was taking the cautious route, holding him out of OTAs until he is fully recovered. On Thursday, August 6th offensive coordinator Ron Turner said RB Matt Forte is 100 percent, but the team is being cautious with him during practices so he does not re-injure his hamstring. Forte has been taking some of the team drills off as a precautionary measure. On Monday, August 10th Forte was in for a few runs in goalline and short-yardage drills during practice. The team is showing a little more confidence in the hamstring Forte pulled back during offseason workouts. Bears head coach Lovie Smith said RB Matt Forte was given the team's preseason game off Saturday, Aug. 15, to rest. Stay tuned.

HOU RB Arian Foster strained his hamstring late last week (August 7th) and may not play until midweek this week. He didn't play in the first preseason game.

NYJ Rookie RB Shonn Greene seems to be getting over his ankle problems, and he looked good in the Thursday night scrimmage according to reports out of the Jets' training camp. After taking reps in practice on Friday, August 7th, Greene said "I'm not 100 percent yet. My adrenaline got going so I didn't feel it at times. After some sets, I would feel it. But it's coming along."

HOU FB Boomer Grigsby is expected to be out six weeks as of 8/16 due to a high ankle sprain.

BUF RB Justise Hairston suffered what appeared to be a season-ending knee injury on July 26th - coach Jauron commented: 'That was so disappointing for the young man to get hurt in literally a walk-through. It was so freakish, it involved no contact at all. It’s a knee injury, and we think it may be a season ending injury. It’s very, very disappointing for us, and extremely disappointing for the young man.'

IND RB Mike Hart is said to be 'on schedule' for returning from a torn ACL (suffered last October). He may be on the bubble with the Colts since they drafted Donald Brown. Hart missed practice on Saturday, August 8th due to an ankle complaint but his knee seems to be holding up. Hart missed the first preseason game due to his sore ankle.

DEN RB/FB Peyton Hillis is reportedly fully recovered from the severe hamstring injury that cut short his 2008 campaign. He participated in June OTAs and looks set to fully participate in training camp. Reports from the first week of camp indicate that Hillis has been the star of camp so far and looks great in his time on the field. As of August 17th, there is even talk that he could wind up being the Bronco's starter.

HOU RB Jeremiah Johnson was waived (injured) on August 6th due to a shoulder that needs surgical repair.

DAL RB Felix Jones is apparently 100% recovered from his surgically repaired turf toe (November 2008 surgery on ligaments attached to his left big toe) - he's been running and cutting in workouts and looks solid. A report out of training camp on Friday, August 7th indicated that Jones is fully recovered from the hamstring and toe injuries that halted his rookie season, and that he's in for a bigger role in the Cowboys' offense during 2009. However, on Monday August 10th Jones sat out team morning drills because of stiffness in his surgically repaired left big toe. 'I don't foresee it being a problem,' RB coach Skip Peete said. 'We're in training camp, two weeks in, and guys are getting sore and stiff and all that stuff.'

TEN RB Chris Johnson reported in early April that his injured ankle was 95% healed and that he expects to participate in minicamps and training camp at 100%. He's been working out extensively with a speed and performance expert. Johnson ran well during the Hall of Fame game on Sunday August 9th and looks fully recovered.

DEN RB RB LaMont Jordan missed practice Monday, Aug. 10, with a right leg injury and could be falling behind the competition for a roster spot. He is nursing a sore knee and has been in and out of practices due to the problem as of 8/17.

CLE RB Jamal Lewis is recovering from an arthroscopic procedure on his ankle performed in February - Lewis participated in practice on May 27th, another hopeful sign in his recovery from the ankle problem. He played through the injury most of 2008, and commented in mid-June that the ankle hurt 'A whole lot. But at the same time I worked through it. The trainers were able to keep me rolling. I knew I had to get something done at the end of the season. It wasn't something that would take me out for the whole season.' As of July 6th, Cleveland coaches were optimistic that Lewis could regain his top form during 2009 despite missing spring workouts due to rehabilitating his injured ankle. Lewis looks trim at 240 pounds and is motivated to have a good season, according to reports out of training camp.

NE RB Laurence Maroney believes he is 100% recovered from his troublesome shoulder injury (recently revealed to have been a broken bone in his shoulder) of last October - we'll see when training camp rolls around. As of May 24th the team was talking about putting Maroney on kickoff returns, a clear sign of his lowly position on the depth chart as of late May.

OAK RB Darren McFadden is said to be 100% recovered from an arthroscopic shoulder surgery performed in January - he should be fine for training camp. He's working at both RB and WR positions during training camp and shows no ill effects from his procedure. McFadden ran for 63 yards on four carries Thursday, Aug. 13. He also caught a nine-yard pass in the game. He appears to be 100% past his injuries of last season.

BAL RB Willis McGahee revealed in May he had arthroscopic surgery on an ankle, not on the knee that has been troubling him in the past. He expects to be fully recovered for the start of training camp in late July. McGahee missed practice on May 27th, which could be a warning sign or could be unrelated to the ankle surgery...stay tuned. The team didn't disclose why McGahee was absent. Early in June, it was revealed that McGahee had surgery on both his ankle and his knee, so the team wasn't in error after all. McGahee has been running with the second team during June OTAs - Ray Rice has been playing with the first string during that time period. McGahee started training camp on the PUP list - he's said to be in good shape as far as his conditioning goes, though, and was removed from the PUP list on July 30th. On July 31st, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said, "I think all our running backs are the healthiest they've been. It will be running back by committee."

PIT RB Rashard Mendenhall has participated in offseason sessions and minicamps and looks fully recovered from last September's broken shoulder. He is reportedly much more mature than he was a year ago, and is applying himself diligently to OTAs. Coach Mike Tomlin commented on July 2nd: 'He's got to put himself back into the offense. I am not responsible for Mendenhall's role in the offense... HE IS.' Mendenhall has been working in practices and looking good, according to Adam Schefter, although other reports out of Pittsburgh are less glowing. 'The key for him, like all young guys, they have to play,' said Kirby Wilson on Thursday, 8/13, [Wilson coaches the Steelers' backs]. 'He's still trying to develop a style - who he is, what kind of runner he's going to be in this league, his style, and the whole key.'

DEN RB Knowshon Moreno will miss one to two weeks because of a slight medial collateral ligament sprain in his knee, suffered during the first preseason game. As expected, he sat out of Sunday, August 16th's practice.

DET RB Maurice Morris missed the first preseason game due to a sore hamstring.

PIT RB Willie Parker is reportedly training intensely during the weeks leading into training camp in a bid to recover his top form - Parker was nagged by an assortment of injuries last year. Parker asserted on July 21st that he was faster than he'd been in the last two to three years. On August 5th a report from training camp indicated that Parker may hold off Mendenhall from even the goalline role as Parker's been impressive so far during camp. However, Parker suffered from back spasms on Friday August 7th and Saturday, August 8th and was held out of both practices on Saturday. Hopefully the spasms will pass and don't become a recurring problem. Parker (back) participated in practice Saturday, Aug. 15 - he may be getting past the injury, we'll have to see how the back responds to renewed practice/hits.

BUF RB RB Dominic Rhodes did not play in the team's preseason opener Sunday, Aug. 9, because of a sore knee, according to head coach Dick Jauron. Jauron said, "We thought he would play. He was certainly going to play on offense and he was scheduled to return our kicks and our punts early in the game. We ran him before the game and it was just sore. So it didn't make sense to put him out there."

CIN RB Bernard Scott sat out of practice on Friday, Aug. 7th due to a sore shoulder.

KC RB Kolby Smith is still on the PUP list as of August 10th due to his injured knee - he hasn't been able to practice at all throughout the spring either due to this lingering injury.

CAR RB Jonathan Stewart missed spring OTAs due to an ankle injury - as of the first week of training camp he's practicing only once a day due to problems with a swollen Achilles tendon. This injury has been a problem for months now and looks increasingly worrisome for Stewart's fantasy owners. Stewart missed his fourth straight day of practices on Saturday 8/15 – and his sixth practice in a row – because of the ongoing problem with a sore Achilles. Stewart commented earlier in the week (Wednesday 8/12): "It’s frustrating, because I'm a hard worker and practice is part of that whole deal of getting better, of getting a feel for things. You don’t want to miss opportunities like that. I’m trying to stay positive and do what I can by watching when I’m not practicing." "Medically, they say it’s best for him to rest, so he rests," said coach John Fox.

SD RB LaDainian Tomlinson participated fully in May minicamps and appears 100% recovered from the groin injury that sidelined him during the playoffs at the end of last season. 'No, I wasn't restricted and I did everything. Of course you are always concerned because it is the first time back on the field and especially after being injured. But I wasn't restricted at all and it was great.' Tomlinson commented. Head coach Norv Turner commented on July 26th 'I didn't see any physical limitations at all from his injuries. I liked what I saw in terms of the explosiveness.' A report on Saturday, August 8th indicated that Tomlinson has been the most impressive player during training camp so far - he seems to have put his injury woes behind him. Tomlinson played in the team's first preseason game - he carried the football four times for 10 yards. He also had one reception for eight yards.

Ex-DEN RB Ryan Torain suffered an ACL tear in early November of 2008 (it was surgically repaired) and wasn't able to participate in May minicamps. He did partially participate in June OTAs, but only in individual drills. He fully participated in his first practice on July 28th. Torain commented: 'For me, it's a reward to finally do a full practice and get a bunch of reps and play football again. I look at it as I'm catching up. I'm pretty excited about it.' Torain will have to impress during training camp to stick on the roster as the Broncos have a very full stable of backs as of July 30th. On July 31st, Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels said RB Ryan Torain (knee) had some good runs Friday, July 31, and is a physical, big guy. '(He is) the kind of back that we are looking for,' McDaniels said. However, Torain was later waived due to a knee injury. He is expected to be out three to four weeks with a lateral collateral ligament strain. Torain underwent an MRI on Thursday, August 13th and is going to get a second opinion.

RB Chris Wells will not be able to play in the team's first preseason game because of an ankle injury that was at first considered minor. However, he's missed several days of practice and may not be back in action until the middle of the second week of training camp. He missed morning practice on Monday, August 10th. Stay Tuned. Wells only took part in individual drills Sunday, Aug. 16, because the team wanted to be cautious. Wells said he felt fine running and accelerating, but noted he felt the ankle toward the end of some sprints. Wells blamed it on not being warm after having done little during practice. As long as Wells' ankle holds up fine, his playing time may increase during the upcoming week.

PHI RB Brian Westbrook talked about his recent arthroscopic knee surgery on April 9th and said for the first time in years, he doesn't feel any pain heading into an offseason. He should be ready for the start of training camp. Unfortunately, he was forced to have ankle surgery early in June to address some bone fragments that were rubbing on tendons and causing problems - the team hopes he'll be ready to play when September rolls around. Westbrook is in the early stages of rehabbing the ankle as of June 30th. Coach Andy Reid commented on June 11th 'When I mention that he was in phenomenal shape, I mean he really was in incredible shape, and that will help him get through this,'. However, Reid also said it was important that the team not rush Westbrook back into action. On July 29th, it was reported in the Philadelphia Inquirer (Bob Brookover) that Westbrook's repaired ankle responded well to drills with a soccer ball on July 29th. Westbrook looks like he is in the process of successfully rehabilitating the ankle. He was placed on the PUP list on July 30th but his rehabilitation is going well - the move doesn't indicate that Westbrook has had a setback. Westbrook returned to practices on Saturday, August 15th, a very encouraging sign. We'll see how the ankle holds up to the rigors of practicing.

TB RB Cadillac Williams was limited by his most recent patellar knee tendon surgery during spring OTAs - however, he was cleared to practice at the open of training camp. He may be in the mix for the team's #3 RB slot, depending on how the knee holds up to the pounding of training camp. On August 1st, head coach Raheem Morris said RB Cadillac Williams (knee) looked good on the field Saturday, Aug. 1. 'I was fired up about him, for him to get off and running like that. He has no choice but to get better. I can't wait to see him tomorrow and this evening,' Morris said. According to reports out of training camp, Cadillac Williams appears to be holding his own in the RB rotation down in Tampa - he may make the final roster as the team's #3 RB.

CAR RB DeAngelo Williams injured his toe on Friday morning, August 7th and was held out of the intrasquad scrimmage on Saturday the 8th as a result. Coach Fox said that the injury wasn't serious, but that didn't keep the team from holding out Williams from the scrimmage as a precautionary measure. Williams said on Friday 'It's nothing major.'

GB RB DeShawn Wynn has a knee injury - severity unknown. He did not practice Monday, Aug. 10. However, he worked through the injury and returned to practices on Thursday, August 13th.

Wide Receivers

NO WR Adrian Arrington, who has been battling a sore hamstring, got good news on Thursday, July 30th when it was announced that he won't start training camp on the PUP. However, after Arrington entered this year's training camp he's been unable to practice due to the hamstring tear he suffered earlier this summer. He is not able to go at full-speed as of August 8th.

STL WR Donnie Avery played 2008 with a cracked hip - he was told at the end of the season he'd need 8-10 weeks of rest to heal. Unfortunately, though he did start training camp as expected, Avery has suffered a new injury, to his left foot, which will keep him out for 4-6 weeks (that's the initial estimate, at least). Stay tuned. On Monday, August 10th the team disclosed Avery has a stress fracture in his foot. "We'll take it day by day, but it's going to be a lot of time," Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said on Monday.

NYG WR Ramses Barden suffered a hamstring injury during minicamp in early May. The injury isn't considered serious, but nagging hamstring injuries have dogged more than one WR - keep an eye on his recovery. On August 11th, QB Eli Manning praised Barden. "Ramses is doing really well," Manning said. "He's a big target, he's made some plays and he seems like he's got a pretty good feel for what's going on."

MIN WR Bernard Berrian was carted off after injuring his hamstring in the first quarter of the preseason opener vs. the Indianapolis Colts. He sat out of practices Sunday, August 16th and Monday, August 17th due to the injury.

ARI WR Anquan Boldin (undisclosed reason) was riding the stationary bike instead of taking part in the morning practice session Monday, Aug. 10. He did practice in the afternoon, and this doesn't appear to be a major concern.

SEA WR Nate Burleson (knee injury) is running pass patterns again without any problem. Burleson, eight months removed from reconstructive knee surgery, is catching 'everything thrown his way' and is said to be running effortlessly. As of August 8th, he is moving and cutting very well in practices. Burleson has not had any knee swelling, nor has he had to take any reps off. He seems to be poised for a bounce-back season. Burleson (knee) played Saturday, Aug. 15, against the San Diego Chargers. He caught one pass for 12 yards during the game. Reports out of training camp have consistently stated that Burleson looks great - his knee injury is apparently a thing of the past.

SEA WR Deion Branch had arthroscopic knee surgery after the 2008 season, and was seen in street clothes at the teams' first minicamps. The team hopes he'll be ready for training camp. Branch commented on his continuing recovery from previous reconstructive knee surgery on June 11th, saying 'You will never be back to normal once you have this type of procedure done. I actually feel stronger, but it's not normal. Something has been done that removed (parts) of my knee. My biggest thing is to continue to strengthen it,' Branch said. 'I'll be OK. I'll never think about my knee once I take the field.' Branch has yet to test the knee in full-contact drills, so we're withholding judgment on his recovery until we see him playing at full speed in pads. Branch missed the Wednesday, August 5, night practice, the Thursday, August 6, afternoon practice and the Friday, August 7th practice with soreness in his knee, although he did make the Friday afternoon session. He did practice on Tuesday evening, 8/11 but he's still been on and off the field due to soreness in the knee.

ARI WR Steve Breaston has a sprained PCL in his right knee. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt didn't put a timetable on his return as of 8/16.

TEN rookie WR Kenny Britt said on July 2nd that his injured hamstring is improving and that he expects to be ready for training camp - 'When training camp starts I'll be full go and ready at 100 percent,' Britt said. 'I'm going to take the time to get treatment and be ready to help the team out.' As of July 20th, Jim Wyatt of the Nashville Tennessean wrote 'Britt missed a significant amount of time in minicamps with a hamstring hamstring injury, and when he did practice he didn't stand out stand out much.' It remains to be seen how ready Britt is to play at the NFL level. Britt was scratched from the Hall of Fame game roster on Sunday, August 9th due to his sore hamstring, though he was taken off the PUP list as of Friday, August 7th. Britt had five receptions for 89 yards and one score during the team's preseason game Saturday, Aug. 15, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

SF WR Isaac Bruce (eye) sat out of 11-on-11 drills Monday, Aug. 10, after being poked in the eye. He'll be evaluated further by the team's trainers. Bruce did not play in the team's preseason game Friday, Aug. 14. Head coach Mike Singletary said he sees no point in playing proven starters in the first preseason game.

TAM WR Antonio Bryant (knee injury) missed the team's practice Thursday, Aug. 6. He ran a few routes on Wednesday, though, and was expected to be fine by Friday, August 7th. He has been in and out of practices due to swelling in his knee after he banged it two Saturdays ago. On Monday, August 10th the team acknowledged that Bryant will have an arthroscopic surgery on the knee and won't be participating in the rest of training camp, although they hope he'll be ready for week 1 of the regular season.

SD rookie WR Demetrius Byrd (7th round pick, once considered a 1st round prospect), is recovering from a serious car accident suffered just days before the NFL draft. He's been released from the hospital and continues his rehab.

MIA WR Greg Camarillo is recovering from late-season ACL/meniscus surgery in his knee - he hopes to be ready for training camp, but that goal may be tough only 6 months removed from knee surgery as of mid-May. However, he participated in mid-June OTAs, working with the first team, and reportedly looked pretty good while completing the workouts each day. He's well ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation. Camarillo has participated since the beginning of training camp and reports no ill effects from his ACL surgery - he appears to be good to go for 2009. Camarillo is rotating in the first team lineup with Davone Bess across from Ted Ginn Jr.

STL WR Tim Carter has a groin injury that will keep him out 10 days to two weeks, according to head coach Steve Spagnuolo on 8/17.

CIN WR Antonio Chatman missed practices August 5th-7th last week due to an illness.

BAL WR Mark Clayton missed practices during late May and early June due to an undisclosed injury. Coach John Harbaugh told players over 30 not to attend the early May session, so Clayton's absence could be due to being excused or due to the undisclosed injury that hampered him in late May (or both). Fantasy owners interested in Clayton should monitor his participation once training camp rolls around. Unfortunately, Clayton seriously injured his hamstring during the first week of training camp (coach Harbaugh said there is significant bleeding in his hamstring) - he's now expected to miss most or all of training camp and may or may not be ready for the beginning of regular season.

TAM WR Michael Clayton's hamstring injury was addressed by head coach Raheem Morris on Thursday, Aug. 6. Morris said, 'The only significant one is Clayton, and it is a lot better than we thought. It is not severe at all. He is probably next week, but he'll get several days, and it may be a blessing in disguise because of hard he was practicing as you guys can see. He has a little bit of a hamstring that is deeper than the other ones. He is week-to-week I should say rather than day-to-day. We'll get him several days.' Clayton missed the first preseason game, but he participated in practice Monday, Aug. 17.

NO WR Marques Colston (knee) is recovering well from arthroscopic knee surgery. He should be 100% for training camp. Colston was the early standout in a Saturday scrimmage catching all six balls thrown to him, including a one-yard touchdown from Mark Brunell. When Brunell was asked why he threw so much to Colston early, he said, 'Because I'm smart, because Colston is a great target.'

SF WR Michael Crabtree is recovering from a foot injury - he should be ready for training camp. Crabtree is not expected to participate at full speed until training camp, according to a May 19th report - he'll be brought along slowly during OTAs/minicamps. He did start some light running on June 8th and his rehabilitation is on schedule according to reports. However, his contractual status is up in the air and Crabtree is holding out of practices. Crabtree, who remains unsigned, has now missed 15 practices as of Sunday August 9th.

DAL WR Patrick Crayton had arthroscopic ankle surgery in January, but is expected to be healthy for training camp. As of Tuesday, August 4th Cowboys wide receivers coach Ray Sherman doesn't believe there is any competition for the team's No. 2 receiver job. He believes it is owned by Patrick Crayton. 'Patrick is the guy right now,' Sherman said. 'Patrick is having a very good camp, and I think the guys are really in tune. They don't care about who starts.'

PHI WR Kevin Curtis had sports hernia surgery in mid-April (a follow-up to last year's surgery, performed in August 2008). Curtis is expected to be up to speed by training camp, hopefully. On June 8th it was reported that Curtis has been able to increase his participation in OTAs as the offseason has moved along, and he appears to be on course for full participation during training camp. As of July 28th, reports were that Curtis is near 100% recovered and should be fully participating throughout training camp. On Friday July 31st, coach Andy Reid said WR Kevin Curtis suffered a thigh contusion in practice - a minor injury that shouldn't linger, hopefully.

SD WR Craig Davis is expected to be 100% for training camp after rehabbing a groin injury that landed him on IR last year. He has been impressive during the spring workouts, making a lot of catches and generally appearing to be 100% healthy. Unfortunately, Davis suffered a quadriceps injury early in training camp and has been a fixture on the sidelines during the first week of practices.

ARI WR Early Doucet missed practice on Monday morning, August 10th due to a shoulder injury. Doucet (shoulder) may be able to return to individual drills soon, but the team does not have a real timetable in place for his return as of 8/17. Doucet said last week that he would like to play against the San Diego Chargers in the team's next preseason game.

CLE WR Braylon Edwards missed mid-June OTAs due to a minor ankle injury (sprained ankle) that he sustained in a pickup basketball game. The injury is not considered serious, but he failed his physical and landed on the non-football injury list due to the ankle injury. He isn't participating in the initial phase of training camp. Keep an eye on his participation during the second week of practices. Edwards returned to practice Wednesday, Aug. 5, after the team took him off the non-football injury list. He tweaked an ankle after returning to practices but the injury appears minor as of Monday, 8/17.

BAL WR Yamon Figurs was placed on the PUP to open training camp due to a nagging foot injury. He returned to practices on Tuesday, August 4th.

STL WR Brooks Foster has a sprained ankle that will keep him out 2-to-4 weeks, according to coach Steve Spagnuolo on 8/17.

IND WR Anthony Gonzalez suffered a right leg injury during OTAs on or about June 6th and subsequently missed practice the following day, June 7th. He spent the time off the field doing stretching exercises to address the injury. As of late June, this looks like a minor issue, but fantasy owners considering Gonzalez should monitor his participation in training camp - the Colts are not releasing details as to the exact nature of the injury. Gonzalez (hamstring) did not play in the team's preseason game Friday, Aug. 14, because of a slight hamstring strain, according to head coach Jim Caldwell.

BUF WR James Hardy is coming off a torn ACL suffered last season, and may not be ready for the start of training camp as of mid-May, 2009. He said in March (2 months after knee surgery) that he hopes to play in the last preseason game. Hardy began training camp on the PUP list and has been watching practice from the sidelines.

BUF WR C.J. Hawthorne injured his left foot and had surgery to repair the damage in June - no timetable has been set for his return.

OAK rookie WR Darrius Heyward-Bey sat out of Sunday, May 10th's workout due to a sore hamstring - the injury isn't considered serious but does bear watching as nagging hamstring injuries are the sort of injury that can dog a player. Unfortunately, the hamstring injury has continued to hamper Heyward-Bey, who missed most of the June OTAs/workouts due to the nagging injury. He is falling behind in the learning curve, which is not good for rookies at any position, but is especially troubling for rookie receivers, who often struggle to adapt to the NFL game even with a full set of OTAs and training camp under their belts. Heyward-Bey commented on the injury on July 2nd - 'It's feeling really good right now. It's always frustrating when you're not practicing. All you have to do is stay positive and do what the trainers tell you to do.' Heyward-Bey was signed to a five-year deal on July 30th, and announced after practices on the 30th that he was fully healthy and ready to play. Heyward-Bey (toe) sat out team drills during practice Sunday, Aug. 9, with a toe injury. 'Heyward-Bey's got a sore toe,' head coach Tom Cable said, adding the injury is not considered serious.

PHI WR DeSean Jackson hyperextended his right knee on Saturday August 8th when he got tangled up with cornerback Asante Samuel at Eagles training camp. He partially participated in practice on Sunday afternoon after missing the morning session. The injury doesn't look serious as of Monday, August 10th.

DET WR Bryant Johnson suffered an ankle sprain during morning practice on Wednesday, June 24. Head coach Jim Schwartz said the injury is not serious and hopes Johnson will return soon. The team recently traded for Dennis Northcutt (formerly of Jacksonville) to challenge Johnson and the other WRs on the roster for the #2 slot across from Calvin Johnson. Johnson sat out of practice on Sunday, August 9th due to a leg injury (lacerations) - he's continuing to miss time in camp. He missed the first preseason game.

DET WR Calvin Johnson was pulled out of the Sunday August 9th practice with a jammed right thumb and he was sporting a temporary cast on his thumb Monday, August 10th. Initial X-rays on Johnson's thumb were negative, but the Lions are going to have their star receiver undergo a more detailed examination. Coach Jim Schwartz told the media the cast is a precautionary move. 'Yeah, when you have a sore thumb it seems like every time one of you guys walk by, you're going to hit it with a camera,' Schwartz said. 'Every time that he walks through the locker rooms somebody's going to bump into him or if he sleeps at night and rolls over, he's going to hit it on the night stand. It's just preventative - the X-rays were negative.' He missed the team's first preseason game due to the injury.

SF WR Brandon Jones will be out for eight weeks because of a fracture in his right shoulder.

GB WR James Jones battled a torn PCL throughout last season, but is expected to be fine for training camp. On July 6th it was reported that Jones is 100% recovered and back to his 'old self'. He is expected to battle Jordy Nelson for the #3 WR position during 2009. Mike McCarthy commented on Friday August 7th 'I would like to say he's back. James last year was one of the stars of training camp. I thought he had an incredible training camp last year. He hurt the knee up in the Denver preseason game and it was something that was with him all year. He looks like he is back to full strength.'

TEN WR Mark Jones was scratched from the Sunday, August 9th Hall of Fame roster due to a sore hamstring. He didn't catch a pass in the team's second preseason game.

WAS WR Malcolm Kelly is recovering from offseason (March) knee surgery - he may not be ready for the start of training camp. However, during June OTAs the knee appeared to respond well to the rigors of practice, and Kelly is optimistic that he'll be ready to go when camp opens: 'I knew once I left my feet for the first time, jumping up to get some balls, that I was back to where I needed to be,' Kelly said on June 20th. 'It's reacting well. I just need to take care of it this summer and then go hard when training camp starts.' He missed practice on Wednesday August 5th due to soreness in the hamstring, but planned to practice on Thursday the 6th - he's still not 100% healthy, it appears. Kelly snagged three balls for 25 yards in the first preseason game.

BAL WR Derrick Mason underwent surgery to fix the scapula and the labrum in his left shoulder in March, and may miss a portion of training camp as a result: "It turned out to be more than we anticipated," he said in early May. "But great doctors find a way to mend you back." In the wake of Steve McNair's murder, Mason abruptly retired from the Ravens - it is unclear if he intends to remain retired as of July 30th, however. Stay tuned. He did in fact return to the team for the first week of training camp. However, Mason dislocated the middle finger on his right hand Tuesday, Aug. 11. Mason caught one ball for 7 yards in the first preseason game. He took the day off of practice on Monday, August 17th.

DEN WR Brandon Marshall continues to recover from early April hip surgery - he may not be ready for the start of training camp, although in recent comments he indicated his hip is feeling 'great'. The Broncos are installing a new offense during the offseason and minicamps - Marshall won't get any reps in the new system until training camp. He began running in practice on May 27th but has yet to take a hit. Marshall is reportedly wary of the team doctors and has been rehabbing separately from the team facilities - he is also demanding a trade as of the end of June, but it doesn't appear he'll get his wish. His progress in rehabilitation is unclear as he has been separate from the team during June. When training camp opened, Marshall did report despite his contractual squabble with the team, but soreness in his hip held him out of all practices on Wednesday, July 29th. The team is going slowly with his return to the field - Marshall will be eased back into the lineup. Marshall (hamstring) suffered a hamstring injury Sunday, Aug. 2, which forced him off of the field - the hamstring injury is going to keep him limited for a few days at least, according to initial indications. As of August 9th, he hasn't practiced since the injury and has only been seen walking from the team complex to the weight room . Marshall gave some clarity to the situation after he participated in practice on Sunday, August 16th after missing two weeks of practices: 'The hip is fine. It was my hamstring.'

NO WR Lance Moore tore the labrum and dislocated his left shoulder working out in Mid-April. He had surgery to repair the damage, but may be iffy for the start of training camp as of mid-May. The team is hopeful he'll be ready for the start of regular season. On July 17th, Moore indicated he expects to be 100% healthy by the second or third week of training camp. One positive sign that Moore is progressing well: he was not placed on the PUP list to open training camp, so he must be close to participating in drills during training camp. On Saturday, August 1st Moore commented "I'm going to do what they'll let me," Moore said. "They don't want me to have any contact for another two weeks at least, so I won't be in team drills."

WAS WR Santana Moss (hamstring strain) sat out the team's afternoon practice Sunday, Aug. 9. The severity of his injury is not yet known. Moss was scratched from the team's preseason opener, but took part in practice Saturday, Aug. 15.

NYG WR Sinorice Moss was forced off the field in mid-June by a hamstring injury that occurred during minicamp. Coach Tom Coughlin commented: 'It's unfortunate it's going to keep him out. He was getting a lot of snaps and he was doing something with them.' The injury is not considered serious, but injured hamstrings have a nasty tendency to linger and cause problems down the line. Moss is expected to play vs. Carolina in the first preseason game on Monday Night Football - we'll see how the hammy responds to game-time conditions.

OAK WR Louis Murphy missed practice on Sunday, 8/16 due to his sore hip, injured in the first preseason game.

MIN WR Sidney Rice is still recovering from a PCL sprain in his right knee that limited him during 2008. He commented on May 15th that he is still feeling pain and isn't 100% yet. On May 22nd he was reportedly looking sharp in practice, though - he seems to be rehabbing his injury successfully. On July 17th Rice commented that his knee was 90% recovered, but that he isn't worrying about his knee while running routes anymore. We'll see how well his joint holds up during training camp. As of Saturday, August 8th the Vikings are reportedly considering using 4-wide sets this year, partly due to the big improvements Rice has shown in camp over last year - he's been a star of the camp so far.

BAL WR Marcus Smith is out for the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

CAR WR Steve Smith's availability for the preseason schedule is in question after he suffered a shoulder injury during practice Monday, Aug. 10. The team announced that X-ray results on Smith's right shoulder were negative, revealing no structural damage. He should be ready for week 1 according to comments by Jake Delhomme on August 11th, but Smith has his arm in a sling and seems to be slated for several weeks of treatment by the trainers. On August 15th, Smith said his shoulder does not hurt as much. He added, "Sleep is kind of difficult, but it's all right. I wouldn't say I woke up and said, 'OK, I'm healed.' Smith added the injury is a "deep bone bruise" but the receiver went on to say the pain began to decrease after the swelling subsided.

NYG WR Steve Smith said he won't play in the Giants' preseason opener (8/17) vs. the Panthers because of the knee injury that has kept him out since last Sunday. 'I was feeling like I was getting into my groove,' Smith said. 'You make strides and then you lose those reps. You want to just hurry up and get them back.'

DAL WR Isaiah Stanback (knee) had surgery to repair a meniscus tear in his right knee. He suffered the injury Tuesday, May 19, and tried to participate in practice Wednesday, May 20. He is expected to be ready for training camp despite the injury/surgery. On June 26th the Dallas Morning News reported that he is indeed on track to fully participate in training camp. Stanback tweaked a hamstring on Wednesday August 5th but was back at practice on Friday, August 7th - he appears to be over the knee issue.

DET WR John Standeford missed practice on Sunday, August 9th due to an undisclosed injury. He missed the first preseason game due to his injured hamstring.

STL WR Derek Stanley suffered an ACL tear and cartilage damage in his knee during mid-December, and underwent surgery to repair the damage. It is unclear when he'll participate fully in practices.

CLE WR Syndric Steptoe is out for the season due to a shoulder (labrum) injury.

PHI WR Limas Sweed suffered a hamstring injury on Sunday, 8/9 and didn't finish practice. In the first preseason game, Sweed grabbed two balls for 56 yards - he seems to be over the tweaked hamstring.

NE WR Brandon Tate (#83 pick in the 2009 draft) is recovering from ACL and MCL (October 2008) injuries in his knee - he may not contribute to the Patriots this season. Tate is still on the non-football injury list as of Monday, August 10th.

Was WR Devin Thomas was coming along nicely in minicamps. (after knee woes during 2008), but then injured his hamstring. Thomas has struggled to stay on the field thus far in his career. As of July 19th he was reportedly ahead of Malcolm Kelly in his knowledge of the team's offense, but how involved Thomas (or Kelly) will be in the Redskins' offense during 2009 remains to be seen. He missed practice on Wednesday August 5th due to soreness in the hamstring, but planned to practice on Thursday the 6th - he's still not 100% healthy, it appears. Thomas caught one pass for 12 yards in the first preseason game.

JAX WR Mike Thomas is expected to miss the first preseason game on 8/17 due to his sore hamstring.

PIT WR Hines Ward is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery (torn rotator cuff) - he didn't participate in OTA/minicamps. Ward missed the team's two practices Wednesday, Aug. 5 due to his shoulder injury/surgery. Ward caught 2 balls for 19 yards in the Steelers' first preseason game.

OAK WR Javon Walker surprised the Raiders in early May by revealing he had further knee surgery on the right knee originally repaired in 2007 (while he was with Denver) - the team didn't know about the procedure until a mandatory minicamp, when Walker was unable to participate. As of July 30th, Walker indicated to local media that he expects to be out for 2-3 weeks during training camp. Reports from Oakland on August 2nd indicated that Walker is looking good in light workouts with a team trainer - he seems to be bouncing back from the latest knee troubles but we'll have to wait and see how the joint holds up to the pounding of real pads-on practices when Walker finally does get back on the field. Raiders head coach Tom Cable said for the first time on Saturday, August 8th that Walker's offseason knee surgery was 'major' and that he was at least 10 to 14 days away from being taken off the Physically Unable to Perform list. 'There's a protocol that we're following that was set as a date,' Cable said. 'And that is still out there, 10 days, two weeks away. But his progress doesn't go unnoticed. We all know he's really coming on, so we just let it run its course. We don't want to do anything that would set it back. That procedure was a major deal, so we want to take care of it.' Walker commented on 8/11 'Obviously, they're still taking their time with me. I am going to get my chances in preseason. I'm not sure if it's this week or the next week or the week after that. I'm just excited to feel like my old self again, where nothing's really bothering me.'

JAX WR Mike Walker is reportedly over the knee injury that shortened his 2008 season and may be able to lock down a starting WR slot with the Jaguars during 2009, according to a report on May 22 in the Florida Times-Union. The recent trade of Dennis Northcutt to the Lions enhances Walker's chances at a slot in the starting lineup. On July 30th head coach Jack Del Rio commented that Walker had 'a real good spring'. He's expected to be a starter for the Jaguars as of July 30th. Unfortunately, Walker suffered a lower leg injury in the scrimmage on Saturday, August 8. Head coach Jack Del Rio said "they don't think it's anything serious". X-ray were taken and they came back negative. Walker is expected to miss the first preseason game on Monday night due to a sore ankle.

BAL WR Demetrius Williams recently indicated his 80% recovered from a late October/early November Achilles/ankle injury/surgery. He has been running in practices, but still walks with a limp - we'll see if he's 100% by training camp. His coaches aren't overly optimistic, as the ankle has been an issue for several years - in mid-June, OC Cam Cameron commented: 'Everybody's seen glimpses of [Williams] the last two years,' said Cameron, the Ravens' second-year offensive coordinator. 'But in reality, in my mind, we've got to be prepared to play without him.' In mid-July, reports out of Baltimore indicated that Williams has bulked up in an attempt to avoid nagging injuries during 2009. On Friday, August 7th Williams returned to afternoon practice after missing the morning session with a minor concussion. 'Demetrius landed on his head, and they held him out for the concussion issue,' Harbaugh said. 'They have to pass those tests.'

DAL WR Roy Williams is apparently over his late-season plantar fascia foot injury and the Cowboys are reportedly 'elated' with his progress this past offseason in the team's offensive system. On Wednesday, August 5th he and Romo had a solid practice session and Williams commented 'It's feeling real good,' Williams said. 'It's only a matter of time before it starts clicking. You'll look and see and we'll have turned the page.' He banged up a wrist last week, but as of 8/16 X-rays on Williams' injured wrist were negative. He should be fine soon.

DET WR Derrick Williams missed the majority of the Lions' late June minicamp due to a hamstring injury sustained on June 24th. The team is concerned that his absence from the final minicamp will negatively impact his development this season. Williams, the Lions' third-round draft pick out of Penn State, showed flashes of good play Friday 8/7 after a slow, seemingly inconspicuous start to camp. With receivers Bryant Johnson, Dennis Northcutt and John Standeford missing Friday's morning practice because of injuries, Williams got more reps and more chances to make plays. He snagged two passes for 35 yards and one TD in the preseason opener.

Tight Ends

ARI TE Anthony Becht missed practice on Monday morning, August 10th, due to a leg injury of unspecified severity. Becht (leg injury) returned for the team's practice Sunday, Aug. 16.

NYG rookie TE Travis Beckum suffered a broken leg as a senior in college, but is expected to be fine for the start of training camp. He was signed on June 29th by the Giants. Beckum is seeing more and more action every day since training camp began - he seems fully healed up. On August 15th, coach Tom Coughlin said 'I see it starting to develop. He's given us that receiving threat, but he's also blocked well, to be honest with you. He really has done a better job, I think, than probably we expected as a blocker.'

DAL TE Scott Chandler (kidney stone) missed the team's practice Sunday, Aug. 9. Chandler (kidney stone) returned to the team's practice Monday, Aug. 10.

PHI TE Brent Celek partially separated his left shoulder during the team's preseason game Thursday, Aug. 13. Head coach Andy Reid said Celek would be fine in "a couple of days." Hopefully, the injury doesn't recur on down the line. Stay tuned.

IND TE Dallas Clark (undisclosed reason) did not practice Monday, Aug. 10, in order to give him some rest, according to head coach Jim Caldwell. 'It was just to give him a little break in the action,' Caldwell said. 'We're constantly trying to evaluate all of our guys, and if we need to rest them, we'll rest them. I expect him to be back in a little bit. He's doing OK.' However, Clark missed the preseason opener and did not practice on Monday August 17th due to a concussion sufficiently serious to keep him out of any activity. Stay tuned.

CIN TE Daniel Coats missed practice on Friday August 7th due to a sore ankle. He did play in the team's preseason opener.

CIN TE Chase Coffman, selected #98 in the draft, is coming off a broken foot suffered in the Alamo Bowl. It's up in the air if he can participate in training camp. On July 2nd he commented: 'It's still not quite 100 percent, but I should be 100 percent (for training camp),' Coffman said. 'I can't wait. It was great to get out there for the mandatory minicamp and do some stuff and get to practice and learn the plays a little more.' Coffman did participate in the final minicamp in early July and stated at that time that his foot is almost 100% healed. However, Coffman wasn't able to work out for teams before the draft because of the injury and according to a recent report out of Cincinnati the foot is still slowing him down as of the first week of training camp.

DET TE Casey Fitzsimmons missed practice on Sunday, August 9th due to a sore ankle. He also sat out of the first preseason game due to this injury.

SD TE Antonio Gates sat out May minicamp due to soreness in his injured big toe, and lingering effects from a late season high ankle sprain. 'I don't know how I got through last season,' Gates said. 'The toe bothered me for months and then I hurt the ankle. But, somehow, I made it through.' The toe is said to be 'structurally' fine, but pain management is obviously part of the package for Gates with this injury. Gates said on Sunday August 2nd, 'When you're carrying muscle instead of fat, you just carry it better. I'm stronger and faster and feel more dominant.' Gates saw limited work Saturday, Aug. 15, against the Seattle Seahawks. He caught three passes for 17 yards during the team's first preseason game, moving well and appearing to be back to his top form.

BAL TE Todd Heap was still struggling with his sore back as of minicamps. It remains to be seen if he'll be able to participate fully in OTAs and minicamps, let alone training camp. He missed the second team minicamp that began on May 19th due to the back complaint. Head coach John Harbaugh said "He's not as far along as we all thought he would be." Heap did finally return to practices on June 9th - but Heap did not practice very much Monday, Aug. 10, because of his injured back. It looks like the back injury is still nagging heap as of the second week of training camp. Heap did not catch a pass in the first preseason game.

CLE TE Steve Heiden had ACL and MCL surgery in December of 2008 - however, he took part in practices starting Monday, August 3rd. Heiden (knee) was cleared for contact drills. Head coach Eric Mangini is said to be excited to have him back - the Browns are looking to fill in the hole caused by the loss of TE Kellen Winslow. Mangini said he likes Heiden because he has soft hands, the ability to read defenses to the point where he knows where to sit down in the zone and that he can be an effective blocker. He was sidelined on August 5th due to soreness in the knee.

PHI rookie TE Cornelius Ingram tore his left ACL (again) during the first week of training camp, exactly one year after having the same ACL torn in his knee - his season is now over. Brent Celek figures to get a lot of passes now that Ingram is done for the season.

CIN TE Reggie Kelly left practice on Monday August 3rd with what some were calling a serious Achilles injury. He has since been placed on IR - his 2009 season is over.

STL TE Randy McMichael, who broke a bone in his lower right leg Sept. 28 vs. Buffalo (also tearing a tendon in his leg), and landed on IR as a result. As of May 8th, agent Drew Rosenhaus asserts that McMichael is 100% recovered and ready to play ball in 2009. McMichael is participating in camp, and is excited to play in the West Coast offense this year - 'It's a fun offense to play,' McMichael said. 'A couple of years ago somebody told me about it, and finally I'm getting an opportunity to play in it.' McMichael snagged 2/25/0 in the preseason opener.

OAK TE Zach Miller had offseason sports hernia surgery (he disclosed this in early May). Miller did return to June OTAs and appears to be on course for full participation during training camp. Keep an eye on how Miller progresses once training camp begins - groin injuries are notorious for causing continuing problems even after surgical intervention (see PHI Kevin Curtis above, and BAL L.J. Smith, below). In other news, Miller left practice Sunday, Aug. 9, with his left leg wrapped from below the knee to just above his ankle. The severity of the leg injury is not currently known. He didn't catch a ball in the preseason opener.

MIN TE Jake Nordin missed practice on Sunday, August 9th while with Detroit due to an undisclosed injury. He was released and has since been signed by the Minnesota Vikings (8/16).

DET TE Brandon Pettigrew had a minor issue with a tight hamstring in his first practices with Detroit, but was held out more due to an abundance of caution rather than an actual injury. Unfortunately, he injured his thigh during the first week of training camp - Pettigrew was limited in practice Sunday, Aug. 9th. Pettigrew had missed nine straight practices prior to Sunday. He took part in some individual drills at the start of practice, but he was only going about half speed according to reports. Head coach Jim Schwartz would not rule out Pettigrew for the team's preseason opener Saturday, Aug. 15, though. Pettigrew (thigh) did not participate in practice Monday, Aug. 17 after missing the preseason opener.

CAR TE Dante Rosario underwent lower back surgery in early May - he may be ready for training camp, but we have yet to see him perform post-surgery. Rosario (back) said he has been cleared to practice (as of August 2nd) and feels '100 percent' after undergoing offseason surgery to repair a slipped disc in his lower back. Gary Barnidge has been put at #1 on the TE depth chart as of Friday, August 7th though and Jeff King is number 2 - Rosario will have to fight his way back up the depth chart if his back holds up.

NO TE Jeremy Shockey is said to be fully healed from last season's sports hernia and is 'anxious' to have a big year with the Saints in 2009. He suffered from dehydration in Las Vegas during the last week of May (he was briefly hospitalized) but is reportedly 100% healthy as of May 27th and ready to participate fully in OTAs during June. He commented on his integration into the Saints' offense on June 6th: 'I still haven't been here a year so I can mature a long way and tune up my game,' Shockey said. 'The most important thing is to know Drew (Brees) and know what we're trying to get accomplished and knowing each other's game. It's still a new offense for me. I'm going to treat it as a rookie like anyone else in this locker room that just got here.' Shockey hauled in 3/61/1 during the team's preseason opener.

BAL TE L.J. Smith sat out of early May practices due to ongoing groin problems due to his sports hernia surgery performed a couple of years ago. He's battled pain from the injury/procedure for years now. He tweaked his hamstring on Wednesday July 29th and did not participate in the morning practice as a result. Keep an eye on Smith's practice participation next week as even minor hamstring injuries can become nagging hamstring injuries that often dog players for weeks. Smith did return to practices on Tuesday, August 4th. Smith did play in the preseason opener and snagged one pass for 35 yards in his time on the field.

ARI TE Stephen Spach had surgery to repair the ACL, MCL and meniscus in his knee in late January of 2009. He was cleared to participate in one of the two practices each day as of July 30th - we'll see how his repaired knee holds up to contact as training camp goes along. He's missed a few practices here and there during the opening weeks of training camp but hasn't missed a lot of time.

Ex-BAL Quinn Sypniewski was signed to a 1 year, $1 million contract in early April despite missing last season with an ACL injury (suffered last April). However, he was waived on July 27th by the team - we'll see if he lands with someone else.

CIN TE Ben Utecht (concussion) was released from the hospital Thursday, Aug. 6. Tests at the hospital showed no structural damage to his spine, but he will meet with a spine specialist and concussion specialist for further review of his situation. He didn't practice over the weekend. There are speculations out of Cincinnati that Ben Utecht could be out for the year or potentially even end his career due to his serious concussion/neck injury.

SF TE Delanie Walker did not practice on Monday August 10th due to a concussion. He'll be evaluated further as the week goes along. He missed the preseason opener on Friday, August 14th.

Place Kicker

DAL PK Nick Folk underwent hip surgery on May 5th - the team is hopeful he'll be back up to speed for training camp. Folk handled some kickoffs Friday, July 31, and said his surgically repaired right hip felt fine. Folk also made three field goal attempts from 51 yards before the team's practice. Two of his kickoffs reached the goal line. Folk said, 'It's getting there. It's a little sore, but that's to be expected. We've just got to push through it and take some breaks. But it's feeling better than it did all of last year.'

NYG PK Lawrence Tynes said he'll definitely play Monday, 8/17/09. Tynes has been out with a groin injury and said he wanted to kick on Thursday, but the team didn't give him the green light until Saturday. 'It was really sore earlier in the week,' Tynes said on 8/15/09. 'We kind of erred on the side of caution.'

IND PK Adam Vinatieri underwent hip surgery on June 4th to relieve nagging pain in his right leg. Initially, the surgery wasn't expected to impact his availability, but reports out of Indianapolis on July 18th cast some doubt on that assessment. People considering drafting Vinatieri will want to pay close attention to his practice participation during the coming weeks. Vinatieri said on August 2nd that he expects to be ready for the start of the regular season. Vinatieri said they are taking it slow to make sure everything is on schedule for the start of the season.