Injury Expectations | Thursday Update | Week 8

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KEY THURSDAY UPDATES

***Today's updates on C.J. Anderson were more specific but have yet to provide more clarity. After reports of a bone bruise circulated yesterday, today brought reports of a meniscus tear and arthroscopic surgery. Most reports agreed that Anderson was likely to have the meniscus repaired, which generally carries a minimum 3-4 month recovery. However, we had potential timetables of 8-12 weeks from Mike Klis with other reports that Anderson would soon be placed on injured reserve and be done for the season. None of today's reports discussed the potential of a bone bruise or fracture.

I think there's enough agreement in these reports to expect Anderson to have a meniscus repair rather than the more simple cleanout procedure, and a 3-4 month absence rather than a 3-4 week absence. If that proves accurate, Anderson may have an outside shot at returning during the playoffs. Devontae Booker is ready to assume Anderson's workload for the foreseeable future.

Anderson's surgery was late this afternoon in Denver. I'll update after the details of his procedure are known.

***LeSean McCoy did not practice today. There are still media suggestions that McCoy has a chance to play this week. I think we're likely to see another DNP on Friday, with McCoy ruled out (or listed doubtful) on the game status report.

***Jordan Reed was cleared to travel to London. That means he's been cleared by an independent neurologist to play. He'll have to remain without symptoms through the team's flight and final practice of the week but he's likely to return to play this week.

***Bill O'Brien wouldn't commit to Lamar Miller playing this week yet but told reporters he was encouraged with Miller's progress over the past 24 hours. Jerick McKinnon was seen in a walking boot today, suggesting his high ankle sprain is more than a low grade injury. Randall Cobb was said to be "very limited" in practice today and will need a reassuring workout on Friday to prove he'll be more than a game-time decision.

***Russell Wilson's injury has been described as a muscle strain. It's to his throwing side and could limit his downfield throwing ability and accuracy, but he's expected to play. Wilson also said he was told his MCL injury would limit him for a month. That suggests a mid-grade sprain. Wilson has been effective from the pocket, but it could be another week or two before we can expect him to be a running threat again.

MIDWEEK PRACTICE PARTICIPATION REPORT AND EARLY EXPECTATIONS

The Wednesday and Thursday practice participation reports are our first chance to see which players each NFL team are limiting in practice after the previous week's games. Players limited in mid-week practice aren't necessarily in danger of missing that week's game. But they all need to be watched closely.

*Note: Monday night players with asterisk practice Thursday/Friday/Saturday

*Note: Monday night players with asterisk practice Thursday/Friday/Saturday

Follow me on Twitter @JeneBramel for breaking injury news and analysis throughout the week.