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Inseason injury coverage
Footballguys will again provide comprehensive injury coverage during the regular season.
My writing and podcast schedule will include:
Monday Injury Rounds > Published as soon as complete Sunday night and updated through Tuesday morning, this feature will review all the major injuries from the weekend's games, provide follow up analysis on injured players who have yet to return to play, and project when every injured player will return.
Waiver Wire Podcast > Tuesday morning release reviewing all injuries at the quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end positions with Cecil Lammey and Sigmund Bloom heading into your weekly waiver run.
Midweek Injury Expectations > Published late Wednesday night after the first weekly practice participation report and updated through Thursday's practice report, this feature will detail the current practice participation of every listed player and project the likelihood each player will play in the coming week.
Thursday Live Audible podcast > Joining Cecil Lammey, Sigmund Bloom, and Matt Waldman at 900 ET every Thursday night for a comprehensive Q&A updating all player injuries.
Gameday Injury Expectations > Published Saturday, this feature will review the practice status of every injured player, provide analysis on player/coach/beat writer comments throughout the week, and discuss how likely and how effective each injured player will be on Sunday.
Sunday Live Gameday podcast > Joining Sigmund Bloom and Matt Waldman at 1000 ET every Sunday morning to discuss and interpret the week's practice participation reports and breaking weekend injury news.
Follow Up Appointments
Patrick Mahomes II | Right patella dislocation | Week 7 | Day-to-Day | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10
Reports of a reassuring MRI and knee anatomy prompted speculation about Mahomes returning to play more quickly than expected in each of the past two weeks. Despite the optimism, Mahomes never had a realistic chance of playing so soon after dislocating his kneecap.
Mahomes did not suffer a high-grade ligament injury, but there is structural damage to the supporting ligaments around the kneecap that must heal enough to limit the risk of another dislocation. A report from Jay Glazer on Sunday morning stated the Chiefs were told Mahomes' risk of another dislocation was around 40% in the first three weeks after injury. The risk reportedly drops to 10-15% after three weeks.
Ignore the precise percentages here. The salient point is that -- not surprisingly -- the risk of re-injury lessens with each passing week. It's also important to note the risk is not zero.
I think the Chiefs have targeted this week to increase Mahomes' practice participation and then re-evaluate the stability of the kneecap. If the risk profile makes sense, they'll clear him to play. Another possible prognostic factor to watch for Mahomes is the Wednesday practice participation of tackle Eric Fisher and guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif. If one or both is back on Wednesday, the chances of Mahomes taking the field increase.
James Conner | Right AC sprain | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Doubtful Week 10
Conner was seen in a sling after injuring his shoulder in Week 8. After the game, Mike Tomlin told reporters Conner suffered a sprain to the AC joint on top of the shoulder. Adam Schefter reported Sunday morning the team initially feared a high-grade injury that may have ended Conner's season. According to Schefter, Pittsburgh was worried enough to investigate a trade for Le'Veon Bell.
Conner was listed doubtful for last week's game but had no realistic chance of playing. Schefter also reported Sunday morning that Conner should also be considered doubtful for Week 10.
Shoulder injuries -- particularly AC sprains -- are difficult for running backs to play through on game day. Pain and loss of range of motion are important factors. While pain-killing injections and creative padding are sometimes effective treatments, shoulder sprains are easily aggravated. If Conner's injury was mid to high grade, expect the Steelers to continue rehabbing him aggressively rather than return him to practice. It's unlikely Conner's status will be clarified until very late in the week.
Pittsburgh's schedule will also work against a quick return for Conner. The Steelers have a road Thursday night game against Cleveland in Week 11. Unless Conner is sufficiently recovered to handle a quick turnaround from next Sunday's game on the short week, he'll likely be rested until the following Thursday night.
Alvin Kamara | Right high ankle sprain | Week 6 | Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10
The Saints elected to continue to rehab Kamara's injuries rather than risk an aggravation in Week 8. Kamara had returned to consecutive limited practices prior to Week 8 and will have had four full weeks to recondition and recover before this week's home game against Atlanta.
Unless there was an unreported setback through the bye week, expect Kamara to do more in practice and play this week.
Cam Newton | Left Lisfranc sprain | Week 2 | Month-to-Month | Week 12++ Return | Out Week 10
Newton continues to experience pain and stiffness in his Lisfranc joint. Surgery was not recommended during a follow-up visit with orthopedic foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson last week but Newton is not close to returning.
It's unfair to say Newton's recovery timetable is in the indefinite category. But he's now nearly two months into his latest recovery and made little progress in rehab. That suggests another 4-6 weeks of rehab -- at minimum. Not surprisingly, Ron Rivera refused to address whether or not Newton may go on injured reserve after Carolina's Week 9 win.
I've amended Newton's expectation to month-to-month and think he's likely to finish the season on injured reserve.
A.J. Green | Left ankle ligament repair | Late July 2019 | Day-to-Day | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10
Green was reportedly participating in team drills during Cincinnati's bye week practices. That's significant. It means he's likely been cleared for contact and is actively reconditioning and targeting a Week 10 return.
It's been clear for some time we'll eventually hear Green's surgery was more than the clean-out procedure originally suggested. Many arthroscopic ankle procedures require 3-4 months of rehab. That's where Green currently stands in his rehab. If he's been cleared for contact, his range of motion and strength is sufficient to play. Whether Green is in condition to play is yet to be determined.
I still have Green listed questionable but am tentatively expecting him to play this week.
Injury Rounds
Adam Thielen | Right hamstring strain aggravation | Week 9 | Week-to-Week | Doubtful Week 10
Thielen did not make it out of the first quarter, aggravating a hamstring strain that had limited him since Week 7. After multiple optimistic reports soon after the injury, Thielen never managed more than a limited practice last week and was termed a game-time decision. If Thielen's sprain was low grade, it was significant enough to still be limiting him ten days after the injury.
Unfortunately for Thielen, aggravated muscle strain often require more rehab time than the initial injury. That leaves Thielen doubtful at best for Week 10 and questionable for Week 11. With the Vikings' bye in Week 12, we may not see Thielen return until Week 13.
Jacoby Brissett | Left MCL sprain | Week 9 | Week-to-Week | Questionable Week 10
Brissett was injured during the first half and did not return. Video angles showed a mechanism of injury consistent with an MCL sprain. The Colts confirmed that diagnosis after the game. Brissett tried to convince the team to allow him to return to play but the Colts remained cautious and held him out.
Expect Brissett to have an MRI on Monday and observed carefully through midweek. If the injury is low grade and Brissett's knee is stable, there's a chance he could return to play next week. More likely, the 5-3 Colts will prioritize a run of three consecutive division games starting in Week 11. A higher grade injury would probably keep Brissett out until the Thursday night game against Houston in Week 12 -- and possibly beyond.
I'll update on Monday as further information is reported.
Monday Update: Brissett's MRI confirmed an MCL sprain, per Chris Mortensen, who tweeted Brissett has a "chance to play this week...but nothing definite" yet.
Fast Track News and Notes
***Monday Update: Le'Veon Bell underwent an MRI on Monday for a knee injury. Todd Gase told reporters he was unaware of any injury during the game and the team learned of Bell's condition on Monday. I'll update with further news when available.
***George Kittle had MRI studies to further evaluate knee and ankle injuries he suffered during Thursday night's game. The injuries are reportedly minor. The nearly two week recovery period from last Thursday night to a Week 10 Monday night home game should give Kittle enough time to recover and play this week.
***Kliff Kingsbury told reporters David Johnson made "significant progress" and could play this week. The release of veteran stopgap Alfred Morris would seem to be a reassuring data point. But Kingsbury hasn't been trustworthy on Johnson in recent weeks. Until we see Johnson return to practice and give an optimistic interview, continue to consider him questionable.
***T.Y. Hilton suffered a calf strain during practice last week. The Colts provided an unusually specific 3-4 week recovery timetable for Hilton, strongly implying the strain is at least a mid-grade injury. Hilton has recovered more quickly than expected with past injuries but the Colts' pessimism means you shouldn't count on Hilton returning until Week 13.
***DeSean Jackson returned to practice last week but was unable to play through his core muscle strain. Further testing is planned but an aggravation immediately upon his return to play is an ominous sign. Do not be surprised if Jackson chooses surgery rather than another extended rehab.
Monday Update: Ian Rapoport is reporting Jackson will undergo core muscle repair on Tuesday. Rapoport says Jackson is unlikely to return this season. However, rehab from core muscle surgery can sometimes be as short as 4-6 weeks. Should the Eagles choose to place Jackson on injured reserve, he could potentially return if Philadelphia makes the playoffs.
***Matt Ryan's high ankle sprain was significant enough to end his consecutive games streak in Week 8 but he should have a good chance to return to play this week after rehabbing through Atlanta's Week 9 bye.
***Preston Williams was reportedly feeling better after a left knee injury during a punt return and being carted off the field. Unfortunately, television angles of the injury are suspicious for an ACL tear. Williams will have an MRI on Monday.
Monday Update: Tom Pelissero reported Williams suffered an ACL injury after Brian Flores told reporters the knee injury was season-ending.
***24 hours after clearing concussion protocol, Sterling Shepard again reported symptoms and was returned to the concussion protocol. The Giants were very deliberate and careful while rehabbing Shepard after he suffered his second concussion in 2019 in Week 5. They're likely to remain careful with this latest setback. It's very unlikely Shepard will be cleared to return before the Giants' Week 12 bye. It's also possible Shepard is placed on injured reserve soon.
Designated to Return by Team
- Green Bay (1): TE Jace Sternberger (W7-now active)
- New England (2): WR N'Keal Harry (W7-now active), G Isaiah Wynn (W9)
- New York Giants (1): DB Sam Beal (W7)
- Oakland (1): DB Isaiah Johnson (W7)
- Jacksonville (1): QB Nick Foles (W8)
- Kansas City (1): QB Chad Henne (W8-now active)
- Tennessee (2): PK Ryan Succop (W8-now active), DB Joshua Kalu (W9)
- Cleveland (1): OL Drew Forbes (W8)
- Washington (1): RB Derrius Guice (W9)
- Baltimore (1): DB Iman Marshall (W9)
- Denver (1): WR Tim Patrick (W9)
- Detroit (1): DL Austin Bryant (W9)
- Minnesota (1): WR Josh Doctson (W9)
- Seattle (1): TE Ed Dickson (W9)
- Miami (1): T Julien Davenport (W9)
Injured Players on Active Roster
|
Quarterbacks Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Patrick Mahomes II | KC | Right patella dislocation | Week 7 | Day-to-Day | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Cam Newton | Car | Left Lisfranc sprain | Week 2 | Week-to-Week | Week 12++ Return | Out Week 10 |
| Matt Ryan | Atl | Right high ankle sprain | Week 7 | Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 |
| Jacoby Brissett | Ind | Left MCL sprain | Week 9 | Week-to-Week | Week 10++ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Case Keenum | Was | Concussion | Week 8 | Concussion protocol | Week 9+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Running Backs Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
|
NO
|
Right high ankle sprain / Left MCL sprain
|
Week 6
|
Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 | |
|
Pit
|
Right AC sprain
|
Week 8
|
Week-to-Week | Week 10++ Return | Doubtful Week 10 | |
|
Benny Snell
|
Pit
|
Arthroscopic knee surgery
|
Week 8
|
Week-to-Week | Week 12+ Return | Out Week 10 |
|
Ari
|
Left ankle injury
|
Week 6
|
Day-to-Day | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 | |
|
Ari
|
Left hamstring strain
|
Week 8
|
Week-to-Week | Week 12+ Return | Out Week 10 | |
|
NYJ
|
Knee injury
|
Week 9
|
Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 | |
|
LAR
|
Ankle injury
|
Week 6
|
Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 | |
|
Was
|
Toe injury
|
Week 6
|
Week-to-Week | Week 9+ Return | Bye Week 10 | |
|
Atl
|
Concussion
|
Week 7
|
Concussion protocol | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 | |
|
Cle
|
Core abdominal muscle repair
|
PS Week 4
|
Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 | |
|
Wide Receivers Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Adam Thielen | Min | Right hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Doubtful Week 10 |
| T.Y. Hilton | Ind | Calf strain | Week 8 | 3-4 Weeks | Week 13+ Return | Out Week 10 |
| Parris Campbell | Ind | Hand fracture fixation | Week 9 | 3-4+ Weeks | Week 12+ Return | Out Week 10 |
| A.J. Green | Cin | Left ankle injury | Late July | 6-8 Weeks | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Dede Westbrook | Jac | Shoulder / neck injury | Week 8 | Day-to-Day | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Sterling Shepard | NYG | Concussion | Week 8 | Concussion protocol | Week 12+ Return | Out Week 10 |
| Preston Williams | Mia | Left ACL tear | Week 9 | Injured reserve (exp) | IR (exp) | 2020 return |
| DeSean Jackson | Phi | Aggravated core muscle strain | Week 10 | Injured reserve (exp) | IR (exp) | Questionable 2019 return |
| Brandin Cooks | LAR | Concussion | Week 8 | Concussion protocol | Week 10++ Return | Doubtful Week 10 |
| Will Fuller | Hou | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Tre'Quan Smith | NO | Left high ankle sprain | Week 5 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
|
Tight Ends Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| George Kittle | SF | Knee / ankle soreness | Week 9 | Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 |
| Jared Cook | NO | Ankle injury | Week 6 | Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 |
| Delanie Walker | Ten | Ankle injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10++ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| O.J. Howard | TB | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Day-to-Day | Week 10 Return | Probable Week 10 |
| Cameron Brate | TB | Rib injury | Week 8 | Day-to-Day | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Matt LaCosse | NE | Knee injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Chris Herndon | NYJ | Hamstring strain | Week 5 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Vernon Davis | Was | Concussion | Week 4 | Concussion protocol | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Jeff Heuerman | Den | Knee injury | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Offensive Linemen Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Tackles
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Joe Staley | SF | Left fibula fracture | Week 2 | 6-8 Weeks | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Mike McGlinchey | SF | Right knee arthroscopic surgery | Week 5 | 4-6 Weeks | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Laremy Tunsil | Hou | Shoulder injury | Week 8 | Day-to-Day | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Jason Peters | Phi | Knee injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Eric Fisher | KC | Core abdominal muscle repair | Week 2 | 4-6 Weeks | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Trent Brown | Oak | Knee injury | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Greg Robinson | Cle | Ankle injury | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Cordy Glenn | Cin | Concussion | PS Week 2 | Concussion protocol | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Greg Little | Car | Concussion | Week 4 | Concussion protocol | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Kelvin Beachum | NYJ | Ankle sprain | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Ja'Wuan James | Den | Left knee injury | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Guards
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| James Carpenter | Atl | Knee injury | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Joe Dahl | Det | Left ankle injury | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| John Miller | Cin | Groin injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
|
Centers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Ryan Kelly | Ind | Stinger | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Rodney Hudson | Oak | Left high ankle sprain | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Ryan Kalil | NYJ | Knee injury | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Daniel Kilgore | Mia | Knee injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Greg Mancz | Hou | Concussion | Week 4 | Concussion protocol | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Defensive Players Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Edge Rushers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Frank Clark | KC | Neck injury | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Clay Matthews | LAR | Jaw fracture | Week 5 | 4-6 Weeks | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Olivier Vernon | Cle | Right knee injury | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Carl Lawson | Cin | Hamstring strain | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Zach Allen | Ari | Recurrent stinger | Week 4 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
|
Defensive Linemen
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Mike Daniels | Det | Right foot injury | Week 3 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Quinton Jefferson | Sea | Oblique strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Brandon Mebane | LAC | Knee injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Justin Jones | LAC | Shoulder injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
|
Linebackers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Kwon Alexander | SF | Pectoral tendon tear | Week 9 | Injured reserve (exp) | IR (exp) | 2020 return |
| C.J. Mosley | NYJ | Aggravated groin strain | Week 7 | 5-6 Weeks | Week 12+ Return | Out Week 10 |
| Leighton Vander Esch | Dal | Neck injury | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Nigel Bradham | Phi | Ankle injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Quincy Williams | Jac | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Defensive Backs
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Quandre Diggs | Sea | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 12+ Return | Doubtful Week 10 |
| Lano Hill | Sea | Elbow injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Reshad Jones | Mia | Chest injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Tashaun Gipson | Hou | Back/hamstring/wrist | Chronic | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Damarious Randall | Cle | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Desmond Trufant | Atl | Toe injury | Week 5 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Tracy Walker | Det | Right knee injury | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Malcolm Butler | Ten | Left wrist fracture | Week 9 | Awaiting Information | Week 12++ Return | Out Week 10 |
| Maurice Canady | Bal | Thigh injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Trumaine Johnson | NYJ | Ankle injury | Week 8 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Pierre Desir | Ind | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Patrick Robinson | NO | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Kendall Fuller | KC | Right thumb fracture fixation | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Dre Kirkpatrick | Cin | Knee injury | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Darqueze Dennard | Cin | Hamstring strain | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Bradley Roby | Hou | Hamstring strain | Week 6 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Lonnie Johnson | Hou | Concussion | Week 8 | Concussion protocol | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| D.J. Hayden | Jac | Shoulder injury | Week 8 | Awaiting Information | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Ahkello Witherspoon | SF | Foot sprain | Week 3 | Week-to-Week | Week 10+ Return | Questionable Week 10 |
| Will Parks | Den | Thumb injury | Week 7 | Week-to-Week | Week 11+ Return | Bye Week 10 |
| Bryce Callahan | Den | Foot injury | August | Week-to-Week | Week 11++ Return | Bye Week 10 |
|
Kickers Injured | On the Active Roster
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
Injured Players Not on Active Roster
|
Notable Quarterbacks on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Ben Roethlisberger | Pit | Right elbow injury | Late September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | 2020 return |
| Nick Foles | Jac | Left clavicle fixation | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Designated to return W8 | Probable 2019 return |
| Trevor Siemian | NYJ | Left ankle ligament repair | Late September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | 2020 return |
| Joe Flacco | Den | Cervical disc herniation | Late October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
| Drew Lock | Den | Right thumb sprain | Preseason Week 3 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Blaine Gabbert | TB | Left shoulder dislocation | Preseason Week 3 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Alex Smith | Was | Right leg fracture / post-surgical infection | November 2018 | Reserve - PUP | PUP | Eligible to return W7 | Unlikely to return to football |
|
Notable Running Backs on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
|
Det
|
Right knee surgery
|
Week 8
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Eligible to return W16
|
Questionable 2019 return
|
|
|
Was
|
Right knee meniscectomy
|
Week 1
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Designated to return W9
|
Questionable 2019 return
|
|
|
Den
|
Shoulder fracture
|
Preseason Week 1
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Eligible to return W9
|
Probable 2019 return
|
|
|
Phi
|
Right shoulder subluxation
|
Week 5
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Eligible to return W15
|
Questionable 2019 return
|
|
|
Was
|
Right ACL reconstruction
|
December 2018
|
Reserve - NFI
|
NFI | Eligible to return W7
|
Questionable 2019 return
|
|
|
NE
|
Cervical disc condition
|
Mid-September 2019
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Eligible to return W13
|
Questionable 2019 return
|
|
|
Hou
|
Left ACL reconstruction / MCL sprain
|
Late August 2019
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Ineligible to return
|
2020 return
|
|
|
SF
|
Right ACL reconstruction
|
September 2018
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Ineligible to return
|
2020 return
|
|
|
Cin
|
Right ACL reconstruction
|
Early September 2019
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Ineligible to return
|
2020 return
|
|
|
Oak
|
Achilles repair
|
May 2019
|
Injured reserve
|
IR | Ineligible to return
|
2020 return
|
|
|
Notable Wide Receivers on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| John Ross | Cin | Right sternoclavicular sprain | Week 4 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Quincy Enunwa | NYJ | Neck injury | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W11 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Devin Funchess | Ind | Left clavicle fixation | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W11 | Probable 2019 return |
| Marqise Lee | Jac | Shoulder injury | Week 8 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Travis Benjamin | LAC | Quad strain | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Dontrelle Inman | LAC | Quad strain | Week 4 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Trent Taylor | SF | Right fifth metatarsal fixation | Early August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Jalen Hurd | SF | Back stress fracture | August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Hakeem Butler | Ari | Hand fracture | Mid-August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Equanimeous St. Brown | GB | Left high ankle sprain | Late August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Corey Coleman | NYG | ACL reconstruction | Late July 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Jermaine Kearse | Det | Left ankle fracture / dislocation | Early August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
|
Notable Tight Ends on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Will Dissly | Sea | Left Achilles repair | Late October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Jordan Reed | Was | Concussion | August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | Questionable 2020 return |
| David Njoku | Cle | Left wrist fracture | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Questionable 2019 return |
| James O'Shaughnessy | Jac | Left ACL reconstruction | Mid-October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Geoff Swaim | Jac | Concussion | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Jace Sternberger | GB | Left high ankle sprain | Preseason Week 4 | Injured reserve | IR | Designated to return W9 | Probable 2019 return |
| Jake Butt | Den | Left ACL reconstruction | September 2018 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Kahale Warring | Hou | Concussion | Preseason | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Jordan Thomas | Hou | Rib fracture | Preseason | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Ed Dickson | Sea | Knee surgery | Early preseason | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
|
Notable Offensive Linemen on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Tackles
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Isaiah Wynn | NE | Toe sprain | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Designated to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Marcus Gilbert | Ari | Right ACL reconstruction | Mid-September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W10 | 2020 return |
| Julien Davenport | Mia | Fractured tibia | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Designated to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Jonah Williams | Cin | Shoulder labrum repair | June 2019 | Reserve - PUP | PUP | Eligible to return W7 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Yodny Cajuste | NE | Quadriceps injury | March 2019 | Reserve - NFI | NFI | Eligible to return W7 | Questionable 2019 return |
| LaAdrian Waddle | Buf | Quadriceps strain | Early August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
|
Guards
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Chris Lindstrom | Atl | Right foot fracture | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return Week 11 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Kyle Long | Chi | Hip injury | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Forrest Lamp | LAC | Right ankle fracture | Week 8 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Lane Taylor | GB | Biceps injury | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Ethan Pocic | Sea | Back injury | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Joe Noteboom | LAR | Right ACL reconstruction | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Danny Isidora | Mia | Right foot surgery | Week 3 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | 2020 return |
| Senio Kelemete | Hou | Wrist injury | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | Questionable 2019 return |
|
Centers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| David Andrews | NE | Pulmonary embolism | August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Mike Pouncey | LAC | Neck surgery | Mid-October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Justin Britt | Sea | Left ACL reconstruction | Early November 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
|
Notable Defensive Players on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Edge Rushers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| J.J. Watt | Hou | Left pectoral tendon repair | Early November 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
| Pernell McPhee | Bal | Triceps tendon repair | Late October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Bradley Chubb | Den | Left ACL reconstruction | Mid-October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | 2020 return |
| Kemoko Turay | Ind | Right ankle dislocation | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Kareem Martin | NYG | Knee sprain | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W10 | Questionable 2019 return |
|
Defensive Linemen
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Akiem Hicks | Chi | Left elbow dislocation | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Stephon Tuitt | Pit | Biceps tendon repair | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Kawann Short | Car | Rotator cuff repair | Mid-October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | 2020 return |
| Marcell Dareus | Jac | Core abdominal muscle repair | Week 8 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Tyrone Crawford | Dal | Hip surgery | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Harrison Phillips | Buf | Left ACL reconstruction | Late September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | 2020 return |
| Malik Jackson | Phi | Left Lisfranc injury | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W11 | 2020 return |
|
Linebackers
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Christian Kirksey | Cle | Pectoral injury | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Alex Anzalone | NO | Shoulder surgery | Late September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Marquel Lee | Oak | Left high ankle sprain | Week 3 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Ryan Connelly | NYG | Right ACL reconstruction | Early October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Micah Kiser | LAR | Pectoral tendon tear | Mid-August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Avery Williamson | NYJ | Right ACL tear | Mid-August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| Blake Cashman | NYJ | Right shoulder labrum repair | Early November 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
|
Defensive Backs
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Derwin James | LAC | Fifth metatarsal stress fracture | Preseason Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Adrian Phillips | LAC | Right forearm fracture | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Nasir Adderley | LAC | Hamstring strain | Week 4 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Keanu Neal | Atl | Left Achilles tendon reconstruction | Late September 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W13 | 2020 return |
| Johnathan Abram | Oak | Shoulder labrum repair | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W11 | 2020 return |
| Sean Davis | Pit | Shoulder labrum repair | Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W12 | 2020 return |
| Tony Jefferson | Bal | Left ACL reconstruction / LCL sprain | Early October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W15 | 2020 return |
| Tedric Thompson | Sea | Shoulder labrum repair | Early November 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
| John Johnson | LAR | Right shoulder labrum repair | Late October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | 2020 return |
| Justin Evans | TB | Achilles tendinitis | Week 1 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W10 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Robert Alford | Atl | Tibia fracture | Preseason Week 2 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Xavien Howard | Mia | Knee injury | Chronic | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W17 | 2020 return |
| Aqib Talib | LAR | Rib injury | Week 6 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W16 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Cre'Von LeBlanc | Phi | Foot sprain | Preseason 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W9 | Questionable 2019 return |
| Jason Verrett | SF | Knee soreness | Chronic | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | Doubtful 2019 return |
| Tavon Young | Bal | Cervical disc herniation | Early August 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
| J.J. Wilcox | Atl | Right ACL reconstruction | July 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Ineligible to return | 2020 return |
|
Notable Kickers on PUP or NFI or IR
|
||||||
|
Player
|
Team
|
Injury
|
Date
|
Player/Team Says
|
FBG Expects
|
Notes
|
| Stephen Gostkowski | NE | Left hip surgery | Mid-October 2019 | Injured reserve | IR | Eligible to return W14 | 2020 return |
DECIPHERING THE ALPHABET SOUP OF INJURY LISTS
Players not ready for camp practices are placed on one of two lists – Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) or Non-Football Injury/Illness (NFI).
Physically Unable to Perform (PUP)
Active/PUP – Preseason only list. Once a player participates in any part of a scheduled training camp practice, they are ineligible for this list. Players can be activated from this list at any time. This list is commonly used for veterans still recovering from injury and those who fail conditioning tests before camp begins.
Reserve/PUP – Regular season only list. Players still on Active/PUP at the end of camp are eligible to move to Reserve/PUP. Players cannot practice with the team until after Week 6. Teams then have six weeks to evaluate the player before moving to the active roster or to season-ending injured reserve.
Non-Football Injury / Illness (NFI)
Active/NFI – Preseason only list. Once a player participates in any part of a scheduled training camp practice, they are ineligible for this list. Players can be activated from this list at any time. Only veterans with a non-football related injury or rookies injured before the NFL draft are eligible for this list.
Reserve/NFI – Regular season only list. Players converted from the Active/NFI list to the Reserve/NFI list are out for the entire season.
Injured Reserve – Return Designation
Each NFL team can return two players to the active roster from injured reserve. Teams are not forced to designate this player at the time of the move to injured reserve. Players designated to return can begin practicing six weeks after being placed on injured reserve and are eligible to return to the active roster eight games after being placed on injured reserve. This rule allows a team to continually evaluate the rehab and recovery of their injured players and provides roster flexibility should teams have multiple key injuries early in the season.
Follow me on Twitter @JeneBramel for breaking injury news and analysis throughout the off-season.
