Every year in the NFL, there are a wide array of injuries that impact various players. From starting quarterbacks like Sam Bradford (out for the season after a second ACL tear in his left knee) to key backups like Charles Sims (out 12-14 weeks due to an ankle injury/surgery) it is imperative for fantasy owners to be well-informed about the injuries/rehabilitations that players are working through here in 2014 so that injury risk can be assessed before creating a drafting strategy/rankings/projections for the upcoming season. Now that the teams are finished grinding through training camp and preseason games have mostly run their course, we have a much clearer picture of where players are in the rehabilitation of their pre-existing injuries - and, of course, many new injuries have been incurred now that the players are playing in game situations against other NFL teams. Find below the most recent information on injuries to fantasy-relevant offensive skill position players across the league after the third full week of preseason contests, current to August 26.
Quarterbacks
BUF: EJ Manuel suffered a sprained LCL in December and had surgery to repair the ligament in January. Manuel participated in late-April OTAs and is expected to be full-go for training camp. Manuel showed up to camp with an additional 10 pounds of muscle mass (up to 247) and is reportedly in peak physical condition for the start of training camp. He played almost a full quarter in the Hall of Fame game and looked to be moving around just fine on the field. Manuel threw 9/13 for 96 yards passing vs. Carolina in the second preseason contest for Buffalo. He threw 17/27 for 148 yards, zero TDs and one interception (with zero sacks taken) in the third preseason game vs. Pittsburgh. Manuel Posted 19/28 for 198 yards passing, one TD and one interception thrown, with four sacks taken for -17 yards vs. Tampa Bay on August 23.
CAR: On June 4, Panthers head coach head coach Ron Rivera said he believes QB Cam Newton (ankle) is on or ahead of schedule in his four-month recovery schedule. 'We feel pretty comfortable,' Rivera said. 'We feel he's headed in the right direction.' Newton underwent surgery to strengthen his left ankle ligaments in late March, and shed his walking boot in late May. On July 26, Newton said his ankle is not 100 percent at this point, but it is getting better each day. Newton has been throwing the ball well in camp according to local sources. Newton hasn't been allowed to scramble or run the read-option in training camp as a precaution to protect his surgically repaired ankle - he sat out of practice on Thursday, August 7..."The big thing is he's got to be able to protect himself," head coach Ron Rivera said. "If something breaks down or something wrong happens, he has to be able to [protect himself]. That's what we're really concerned about. The other thing, too, is if he takes a hit on it. That's the other thing we've got to make sure of, that it's structurally sound." The Panthers continued to shield Newton on Friday night - he was held out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Newton described the sensations in his ankle on Thursday, August 8 “It’ll hurt [sharply] for that little second but it’ll go away after 2-3 minutes. It’s a reminder that, hey, you better check yourself.” Newton did play in the second preseason game, but he didn't do any running/scrambing, taking two sacks for -19 yards that he would have easily evaded in past years. He threw 4/9 yielding 65 yards passing, with zero TDs or interceptions. Newton acknowledged on August 15 that he still isn't 100% healthy - "The thing that keeps coming back up is, 'Keep treating it. Treat it when it feels good, treat it when it feels bad. Don’t be that guy that only treats it when it’s nagging. Try to stay ahead of the pain,'" Newton said. "That's what I've been doing, and it's been paying off." Unfortunately, Newton suffered a fractured rib in the third preseason game, and will therefore sit out the rest of preseason. The team is hopeful that he'll be able to play in week one of the regular season, but he is now rehabbing two separate issues as of the final week in August.
CLE: Brian Hoyer underwent reconstructive knee surgery (ACL injury) on October 19, 2014. As of April 29, 2014 Hoyer was participating in voluntary OTAs with the Browns, wearing a brace on his repaired right knee. Reports on June 4 indicated that Hoyer likely will be limited during the team's June minicamp. Hoyer said he wanted to be on the field but understands why the team is being cautious with him. On July 26, Hoyer opened camp with a brace on his right knee, but he also took all of the first-team reps in that session. The early word out of Cleveland is that the Browns' coaching staff considers Hoyer their starting quarterback as of late July. Hoyer continues to wear a brace but is fully engaged in a camp battle with Johnny Manziel as of mid-August. Hoyer didn't look good on Monday Night Football, with 2/6 for 16 yards passing, zero TDs and interceptions thrown, with one sack taken for -6 yards. He managed 10/16 for 84 yards passing, one TD and one interception thrown in the third exhibition, and has been named the teams' starter for Week One regular season.
CLE: Johnny Manziel suffered a minor ribs injury during the first preseason game - however, he continues to practice and according to Coach Mike Pettine on August 12 Manziel and Brian Hoyer will both work with the starters in Cleveland's second preseason game against the Redskins. Manziel had a rocky debut with few connections initially - he finished the night with 7/16 for 65 yards passing, one TD and zero interceptions, with three sacks taken for -7 yards. Manziel is officially the backup starting regular season - he posted 10/15 for 85 yards passing, with one rush for seven yards and a TD in the third exhibition game.
DAL: Five months removed from the second surgical procedure on his back over the last two years, Tony Romo is reportedly doing well in rehab. 'We feel good about Tony's health, first-hand, medically,' team owner Jerry Jones said on May 7, 2014. 'His back is everything that we want it to be at this time.' Romo was throwing the football around with authority at the early-May mini-camp, according to local sources. On May 27, Romo was reported to be right on schedule in his rehabilitation. As of July 24, Romo is expected to be a full participant in training camp: 'He has had no issues,' coach Jason Garrett said on the 24th. 'No obstacles holding him back.' Romo missed practice on Friday August 1, but it appears he was simply being rested - no setback due to the back is reported. Also, the team is holding Romo out of the preseason opener as a precautionary measure - he is expected to appear in the second preseason game on August 16. Stay tuned to see if Romo actually appears in that game. Romo didn't practice on Tuesday, August 5. Romo did practice Saturday, August 9 after sitting out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Romo was expected to make an appearance vs. Baltimore on Saturday, August 16. He did play, and threw 4/5 for 80 yards, one TD and zero interceptions with zero sacks taken - so far, so good for Romo. Romo threw 10/18 for 87 yards passing at Miami in the third exhibition, while taking three sacks for -19 yards.
Ex-MIA: Pat Devlin sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a hamstring injury of unspecified severity - he's missed several sessions due to the injury. Devlin was waived on August 11.
MIA: Matt Moore sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a sore shoulder on his throwing arm. He threw 13/19 for 158 yards, one TD and zero interceptions in the second preseason game - the sore shoulder seems to be a thing of the past. Moore threw 12/19 for 172 yards, one TD and one interception during the third exhbition.
NO: Drew Brees sat out Saturday's scrimmage because he has a strained left oblique, head coach Sean Payton explained at his post-scrimmage news conference. Payton said that Brees is "day to day" and that the team would monitor the injury. Brees did not practice on Monday, August 4. Brees was wearing pads but didn't practice much Tuesday, August 12, as the team eases him back onto the field. Brees is expected to play in the third preseason game after sitting out the second contest on August 15. Brees (oblique) said on Monday August 18 that he definitely plans to play in the third preseason game. Brees did play in the third exhibition and had a solid 9/15 for 128 yards passing, two TDs and zero interceptions, with zero sacks taken.
NYG: Eli Manning underwent arthroscopic surgery on his ankle in mid-April. He is said to be progressing well in his rehab, but won't practice until training camp to give the ankle time to heal. Manning said on May 28 that he feels like he can do all things in practice, but will be cautious in trying not to overdo anything as he recovers from ankle surgery. 'The last few weeks, I've been doing most things from a practice standpoint,' Manning said. 'We're still being smart about things and not trying to overdo it, but definitely, football activities, I feel like I can do them all full.' In camp the Giants are reportedly focusing on having Manning get rid of the ball more quickly under new OC Ben McAdoo. Manning played well into the first quarter of the Hall of Fame game - he did fumble in the contest but appeared to be moving around on the ankle with no issues. He played four series in the second preseason contest for the Giants, but the team was working on the running game mostly - Maning went 0/2 passing during his time on the field. Manning eked out 1/7 for six yards passing with one sack taken for -6 yards on Saturday, August 16. He finally had a half-decent showing vs. the Jets on August 22, with 12/21 for 139 yards, one TD and zero interceptions, with two sacks taken for - 22 yards.
OAK: Derek Carr (concussion, ribs) returned to practice Monday, August 18, with extra padding for his ribs. He sat out of the game on August 22 due to continued discomfort from his ribs injury.
OAK: Matt Schaub's sore elbow isn't an issue that will keep him off the field Week One of the regular season, according to remarks from head coach Dennis Allen on August 25.
STL: Sam Bradford suffered a torn ACL/reconstructive surgery midway through the 2013 season. Unfortunately, an MRI revealed that the ACL was torn again on Saturday, August 23 and Bradford has now been lost for the 2014 campgain. Shaun Hill will take over for the Rams at starting quarterback.
TEN: Jake Locker underwent Lisfranc (foot) surgery in mid-November, 2013 - he is expected to be a full participant in OTA's and training camp, according to head coach Ken Whisenhunt on May 1, 2014. Locker said he was good moving around in practice Tuesday, May 27. Locker participated in all 10 of the team's OTAs this spring - the Titans are working on keeping Locker in the pocket more to minimize his chances of injury. Locker should be a full participant in training camp. He reported to camp five pounds lighter and has reportedly looked solid as a passer during the first week of camp. He had a brief cameo in the first preseason game going 1/2 for five yards passing. Locker threw 8/11 for 75 yards, one TD and zero interceptions during the second preseason game (with one sack taken for -7 yards). He tossed 12/17 for 188 yards passing, one TD and zero interceptions at Atlanta on August 23.
TEN: Charlie Whitehurst (finger injury) did not play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 23.
WAS: As of April 17, 2014, reports out of Washington indicate that Robert Griffin III III is now fully healed from the knee injury/reconstructive surgery that hampered his 2013 season. Griffin has shed his knee brace and reportedly looks 'amazing' running on the field. A report on June 4 indicated that Griffin looks effortless in his dropbacks and throwing mechanics during organized team activities now that he isn't impeded by his knee brace. Reports on June 5 are that Griffin said the players have done a good job picking up the new offensive system but need more time to master the offense. 'I think it is coming together nicely. The quarterback room is doing really well and we’re ahead on a lot of things. But that’s where we’re supposed to be. We’ve got to have that mastery of the offense. But coming out here to the field... doing some talking at the line, getting some things under control and getting the looks that we need to be in, it’s been good,' On July 24, Washington's coaching staff indicated that Griffin would have very few designed runs during the 2014 season. Griffin has been up and down as a passer during the first week of camp, but he is fully participating. Griffin pitched 2/4 for nine yards passing during a brief appearance in the first preseason game. He managed 6/8 for 112 yards passing, zero TDs and one interception with one sack taken for -9 yards in the second preseason tilt vs. Cleveland. Griffin suffered a bruised thigh during the second exhibition and then looked horrid vs. Baltimore in the third preseason game on August 23 (5/8 for 20 yards passing, zero TDs and one interception thrown, with three sacks taken for -15 yards, and three rushes for three yards).
Running Backs
ATL: Steven Jackson suffered ANOTHER hamstring injury in practice on Monday, July 28 - this time it is to his other (left) hamstring. The team is saying he'll be ready for week one of regular season, but we all remember how Jackson's last soft tissue injury worked out...Jackson started doing some agility drills on August 11, but missed appearing in the second preseason game. He continued with agility drills on August 14. Jackson could receive some playing time in the final preseason game, according to head coach Mike Smith on August 25.
BAL: Ray Rice was hampered by hip and thigh injuries throughout the 2013 season. Though he is reportedly in great condition as of April 2014, Rice will serve a two-game suspension to open the regular season. Reports out of training camp in late July indicated that Rice is in top condition as of the start of training camp. Rice has slimmed down from nearly 225 pounds all the way to 207. Rice is entrenched as the Ravens starter after one week of camp and looks improved over last season. He posted 3/17/0 rushing in the first preseason game (5.7 yards per carry). Rice posted 2/21/0 rushing at Dallas during the second preseason game. However, Rice suffered a shoulder bruise in the that game Saturday, August 16, but it 'shouldn't be anything too serious,' according to head coach John Harbaugh on August 17. Rice didn't play in the third preseason game as the team concentrated on getting the team ready to do without Rice for the first two games of regular season (Rice is suspended for that time period).
BAL: Bernard Pierce underwent shoulder surgery in January of 2014 - he is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, and was reported to be on pace in his rehab as of March 29, 2014. On May 29, reports indicated that Pierce may be a little ahead of schedule in his recovery from shoulder surgery. Pierce was able to do some light work during organized team activities Thursday, May 29. As of July 25, Pierce is looking good in training camp: 'I'm very confident in Bernard. I've always liked Bernard,' said coach John Harbaugh. 'He's a heck of a player. He's worked very hard, he’s 217 pounds, [and] he's in the best shape of his life. He looked good out here the last couple of days.' Pierce posted 10/37/1 rushing in the first preseason game. He had 7/55/0 rushing during the second preseason contest in Dallas. Pierce (concussion suffered early in the third preseason contest) is dealing with a mild concussion, according to head coach John Harbaugh on August 25. He is expected to be ready for regular season.
Ex-CAR now-NE: Tyler Gaffney will undergo surgery to repair the torn lateral meniscus in his left knee and will miss the rest of the season according to reports on July 26, 2014.
CAR: Jonathan Stewart missed 10 games last season due to ankle and knee problems - he is reportedly engaging in a yoga/stretching regimen to hopefully improve his durability during 2014. Unfortunately, Stewart will miss two-to-four weeks of training camp due to a hamstring injury incurred early in training camp. He is expected to miss at least the first preseason game. He looked good running straight ahead on a side field Thursday, August 7. Stewart worked out before Friday’s preseason game and is expected to be evaluated again Sunday. Stewart was held out of the game on Friday, August 8, as expected. Stewart did practice on Sunday, August 10 marking his first practice in training camp. He scored twice in the second preseason game (4/26/2 rushing). He posted 4/11/0 rushing and 1/20/0 receiving at New England in the third exhibition game.
CIN: BenJarvus Green-Ellis suffered a hip injury in the second preseason game, it was revealed on August 22. He missed the third exhibition game and Jeremy Hill ran well in his place, with 12/48/0 rushing for Hill. Stay tuned.
CLE: Dion Lewis fractured his left fibula in mid-August last year, and underwent corrective surgery. Lewis was placed on IR and missed 2013 - he was present and participating in the first day of the Browns' OTA's on April 30, 2014. However, Lewis missed all of June's minicamp due to an unspecified injury - he didn't do well in the first preseason game, with 3/6/0 rushing and a fumble lost. Lewis did slightly better in the second preseason game with 4/7/0 rushing and 2/4/1 receiving. He posted 3/8/0 rushing and 2/10/0 receiving during the third exhibition game.
DAL: Joseph Randle suffered a ribs injury during the third preseason game on Saturday, August 23.
DEN: Montee Ball is out of training camp due to an emergency appendectomy - he said on August 8 that he feels well since the procedure (he's lost five pounds, though), but is unsure when he'll be healed enough to return to the team/practices. "Right now I am getting healthy and strengthening my core, just listening to my body. Just taking it day-by-day, step-by-step," Ball said. "When you see me back in pads, you will know I am ready." Ball returned to individual drills on Tuesday, August 19. He did play in the third preseason game and posted 4/13/0 rushing and 4/21/0 receiving.
DET: As of May 7, 2014, Joique Bell is rehabbing an unspecified left knee injury (head coach Jim Caldwell refused comment) - Bell posted an Instagram photo of his knee wrapped up and crutches at his side. On May 29, Bell said he should be ready for training camp in late July. Bell was cleared to run full speed on July 8, and is expected to fully participate in training camp. He reportedly looked good cutting and accelerating with ease during team portions of practice Wednesday, July 30. He had one carry for 11 yards vs. Cleveland in the first preeason game. Bell had 3/7/0 rushing in the second preseason contest. He posted 7/24/0 rushing and 1/1/0 receiving vs. Jacksonville in the third preseason game.
GB: Rajion Neal has missed the second and third preseason games due to a knee injury suffered in the first contest.
HOU: Arian Foster underwent back surgery in November of 2013, missing the final eight games of the season. He was medically cleared by the team's doctors March 16, 2014 and participated in May OTAs with the team. Foster appears on track to fully participate in training camp/regular season. He is expected to be a three-down back under head coach Bill O'Brien. However, Foster was sidelined on July 29 due to a 'minor' hamstring injury: 'He's dealing with something,' coach Bill O’Brien said. 'He'll be fine. He'll be back. It's a minor deal. You know, it's a long season. He'll be out there.' As of Tuesday, August 12 Foster has continued to not make it onto the practice field. Coach O'Brien indicated he expects Foster on the field sometime later in the week - this is becoming a drawn-out rehabilitation, folks. "They [Foster and Andre Johnson] practiced more than they had, and it’s a good sign for our football team," coach Bill O’Brien said on August 19 after joint practices with the Broncos. According to the Houston Chronicle, Foster was running with the first team and "(displaying) his normal acceleration." However, Foster was held out of the third preseason game on August 23.
IND: Vick Ballard tore his right ACL the Thursday prior to Week 2 games during 2013 - as of May 5, 2014 he's said to be close to 100% recovered from the injury. However, on Friday, July 24 Ballard tore his Achilles tendon and is now done for the season (again).
IND: Ahmad Bradshaw went on the IR October 8, 2013 due to his injured neck, and subsequently had corrective surgery for the injury. Bradshaw also deals with a chronic foot injury - he was re-signed by the Colts in free agency (March 11, 2014). As of April 24, 2014 Bradshaw reported that his neck 'feels great' but it isn't back to 100% healthy yet. Bradshaw expects to be ready for training camp. Bradshaw was on the field for organized team activities Wednesday, June 4, but he was wearing a no contact jersey. As of July 24 Bradshaw was cleared for resuming full practices during training camp. He didn't appear in the first preseason game, although a report on August 11 indicated that he'll get a little work during either the second or third preseason contest. The Colts are being cautious with their veteran backup during the exhibition season. Bradshaw was held out of the second preseason game.
IND: As of July 26 and 27 Trent Richardson is sitting out of training camp due to a hamstring injury - he is considered day to day with the tweaked hamstring. Soft tissue injuries can be tricky to rehabilitate. Richardson had 5/13/0 rushing during the preseason opener at the Jets. He posted 9/21/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the second preseason game. He had a meager 6/17/0 rushing during the third exhibition game.
JAX: Toby Gerhart (hip injury, missed first preseason game) said he hopes to be able to play in the second preseason game. He said on August 9 that he has been taking part in a running program and has not had any issues. Gerhart (hip) is the 'lead dog' in the ground game, according to offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch on August 12. He was expected to play in the second preseason game. Gerhart went 6/19/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving during the second preseason contest. He posted 10/32/0 rushing at Detroit in the third preseason contest.
KC: Jamaal Charles suffered a bruised foot when he twisted it after practice, according to head coach Andy Reid on Monday, August 18. Charles sat out of the Week 2 preseason game versus the Carolina Panthers as a precautionary measure, Reid said. He also sat out of the third preseason game, but is simply being preserved for regular season - he doesn't need preseason reps.
MIA: Knowshon Moreno suffered a back injury in the Super Bowl and missed most of the second half, but is expected to be fine for OTAs. However, as of June 23, 2014 Moreno had an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee - he was placed on the active/PUP list as of Thursday, July 24 and is missing the start of training camp while he rehabs the knee. Reports out of Miami also indicate that Moreno's weight is an issue heading into training camp. On August 1, Moreno indicated he is unsure if he'll appear during the preseason: "I don't know. I don't know. I really don't even know. I just want to take each day one at a time. They have a schedule for me and they're just going to tell me every day what I have to do, and I just go out there and do it." Moreno appeared in the third preseason game with 10/64/0 rushing to his credit.
MIA: Daniel Thomas missed the first preseason game on August 8 due to a sore hamstring. He also missed the second game, but returned to practice on Monday, August 18. Thomas is rumored to be on the roster bubble. He was inactive for the third exhibition game.
MIA: Damian Williams was carted off the field with an undisclosed injury late in the game on Friday, August 7 - he had a walking boot on his foot after the game and was scheduled for an MRI over the weekend. Williams led the team in rushing (11/20/1) and receiving (3/46/0) in the 20-14 victory over Tampa Bay during the second preseason tilt. He had 7/33/1 rushing and 1/54/0 receiving in the third preseason game.
NE: Shane Vereen said on May 2, 2014 that his 2013 wrist fracture still isn't fully healed. 'It’s not going to feel great tomorrow, it's not going to feel awful,' he said. 'It won’t be 100 percent probably for a while, but it's good enough and I'm working on strengthening it and getting it back.' Vereen also battled groin woes during the playoffs last January. As of late May Vereen was considered the top back in the Patriots' committee - we'll see how the wrist holds up during training camp. He was 1/7/0 rushing during a cameo appearance in the first preseason game at Washington. Vereen handled two targets for 2/21/0 receiving in the second preseason game - he didn't log a carry. Vereen was impactful in the third preseason game with 6/18/0 rushing and 5/57/2 receiving to his credit.
NO: Pierre Thomas sat out of the first preseason game due to an unspecified injury. Head coach Sean Payton refused to comment after the game on why Pierre Thomas sat out of the first preseason contest, reiterating that he doesn't address injuries during preseason. Thomas logged three receptions for 27 yards in the second exhibition game. He led the team in reception yards week three, with 4/66/0 receiving and added 3/13/0 rushing.
NYG: Peyton Hillis suffered an ankle/foot sprain on Tuesday, August 5 and has been missing practice since. Local reports indicate the injury will keep Hillis out for an indefinite period of time - he didn't log a carry in the first preseason game. As of August 14 Hillis was targeting Monday, August 18 for a return to practices. He did finally return to practices on August 24.
Ex-NYG: As of June 4, 2014, David Wilson (neck surgery/spinal disk fusion) did not gain medical clearance after a MRI and exam. He'll reportedl8y undergo another test/exam just before training camp. Wilson was cleared for all phases of practice on July 21 and opened training camp as the team's #2 running back on July 23. Unfortunately, Wilson suffered a neck injury/burner in practice on Tuesday, July 29 - he was advised by medical personnel to end his NFL career after the incident on July 29. He was placed on IR August 4 and has announced that he is leaving the game.
NYJ: Chris Ivory suffered a cracked rib and a hip pointer in the regular-season finale last December. He is expected to be ready for OTAs and training camp this year. On Thursday, July 24 Ivory 'tweaked' his hamstring but he returned to practice on July 25 and it appears the hamsting is not seriously injured. Ivory suffered a ribs injury in the first preseason game on August 7, and on August 10 he said that he felt "some movement" of his ribs after the injury. Ivory didn't practice on Saturday, August 9 due to the injury. Ivory is likely to play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 16, according to comments made by head coach Rex Ryan on August 12. However, Ivory didn't log a carry during that contest. He did play in the third preseason game, with 6/50/0 rushing and 1/23/0 receiving during his time on the field.
NYJ: Chris Johnson had late-January arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus in his knee (torn in week three of the 2013 season), and there have been some reports that the knee is developing arthritis. However, the Jets signed him to a two-year, $8 million deal with a $3 million signing bonus in April, so their concerns over the knee can't be too dire. He was cleared for training camp on July 23 and was reportedly 'flying' during his conditioning run. Johnson said he was pleased with how his surgically repaired knee felt during his first full contact practice Saturday, August 2. He posted 4/2/1 rushing and 2/16/0 receiving during the first preseason game. He posted 10/63/0 rushing and 2/1/0 receiving at the Bengals' house in the second preseason game. He had 9/42/0 rushing and 2/35/0 receiving vs. the Giants on August 22.
OAK: Kory Sheets tweeted that he is out for the 2014 season after suffering an Achilles' injury Friday, August 22.
PHI: LeSean McCoy suffered a thumb injury in the third preseason game Thursday, August 21. He also missed one practice earlier in the week due to a sore toe - X-rays on McCoy's thumb were negative, but he didn't return after his 22-yard touchdown catch gave Philadelphia a 7-0 lead. Eagles head coach Chip Kelly called McCoy's thumb injury "no big deal.". "A helmet hit it," McCoy said, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. "It definitely hurts. But there have been times I've been banged up and it turns out fine. We'll see what happens... I feel like I've got a lot of work to do. Feel quick but my legs feel little heavy. It's still early. Need some time be more effective and get in the work mode I need to be effective this year. ... I feel good, though." McCoy practiced on Saturday, August 23, further reinforcing the notion that the thumb injury isn't serious. McCoy (thumb, toe) said on August 25 that he will be fine for Week 1 after suffering a thumb injury in the team's preseason game Thursday, August 21. McCoy also said that a toe injury that kept him out of a practice last week was 'feeling good.'
PHI: RB Chris Polk sat out of training camp on Sunday, August 3 due to a sore hamstring. The severity of the injury wasn't indicated at that time, but later was revealed as a partial tear of the hamstring. Polk missed the Eagles' preseason opener with the hamstring strain, and hadn't resumed practicing as of August 11. As of August 19, Polk is reportedly targeting the last week in August to return to practices, but that is not based on the team trainers' opinion(s) (players are often more optimistic about their condition than the medical staff). Polk says he knows he has a lot of work to do to recover from the strained hamstring. Polk practiced Saturday, August 23, but reportedly could still feel pain when he made cuts.
PIT: Le'Veon Bell (tweaked hamstring) didn't finish practice Sunday, July 27, due to a tight hamstring. However, he was soon back to action: Bell participated in practice Thursday, July 31. He led the team in rushing during the first preseason game, with 3/18/0 and added 1/6/0 receiving. He managed 4/11/0 rushing vs. Buffalo in the second exhibition game. He posted 9/23/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Philadelphia in the third exhibition game.
SD: Ryan Mathews ended last season on a sour note, tweaking a previously injured ankle in the Chargers' Wild Card round victory and then being mostly unavailable during the Divisional round of the playoffs. He is expected to be fine for the start of training camp this year. However, Mathews (elbow, arm) was practicing with his elbow and upper arm wrapped Monday, June 2. No details about the severity of the injury were offered, but as he was on the field practicing the issue must have been relatively minor. Reports during July indicate that Mathews is going to be the lead back in an attack that emphasizes the running game. He posted 5/19/0 rushing vs Dallas in the first preseason game. He was rested for the second preseason game vs. Seattle's stout D. Mathews played vs. San Francisco in the third exhibition and put up 4/22/0 rushing and 2/26/0 receiving during the contest.
SEA: Christine Michael left practice early Sunday, July 27, after dinging his right shoulder. Head coach Pete Carroll said Michael should be able to return Tuesday, July 29. He played in the first preseason game vs. Denver (7/16/1 rushing with 3/12/0 receiving), and was listed as the third running back on a depth chart released by the team August 12. He posted 8/45/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving in the second preseason game vs. San Diego. He led the team in rushing with 8/28/0 and caught a TD vs. Chicago (3/36/1) in the third preseason tilt.
SEA: Robert Turbin had an arthroscopic procedure on his knee during the offseasn, but as of June 9, 2014 he was reportedly fully recovered. Turbin got lots of reps initially in training camp due to Marshawn Lynch's brief holdout, and put up 4/5/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Denver in the first preseason contest. He led the team in rushing during the second exhibition vs. San Diego, with 12/81/1 rushing and 1/5/0 receiving. Turbin posted 6/26/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the third preseason game.
SF: Kendall Hunter tore his right ACL during practice on Friday, July 24 and is done for the season.
SF: LaMichael James (elbow injury) likely will miss the entire preseason but should be ready for the start of the regular season. James returned to action in the third preseason game with 7/9/0 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving.
SF: Marcus Lattimore has conceded (May 5, 2014) that he still has not recovered his top form physically or mentally after the catastrophic knee injury (torn right ACL, LCL, and PCL) that ended his college career. He has also torn the ACL in his left knee. On May 22 the 49ers indicated that Lattimore would 'somewhat' participate in rookie minicamp. Lattimore has sat out of the first three training camp session, though GM Trent Baalke is on record (July 27) that Lattimore has not suffered a setback. '"He's coming off, as we all know, a horrific injury.' Baalke said on Saturday, July 27.
STL: Isaiah Pead will likely be out for the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, which buckled at the end of a 33-yard kickoff return in the first quarter on Saturday, August 16. The Rams waived Pead with a waived/injured designation Wednesday, August 20. Pead will revert back to the roster if he clears waivers, and then head to I.R.
TB: Mike James is recovering from an ankle injury (week 10, 2013) and James missed chunks of OTAs as he rehabilitated his ankle. He posted 3/12/0 rushing at Jacksonville during the first preseason game. He posted 3/18/0 rushing in the second preseason game, but hurt his shoulder. As of August 17, James is unlikely to play in the team's next preseason game against the Buffalo Bills Saturday, August 23, according to head coach Lovie Smith. James did not play in the third preseason game, as expected.
TB: As of March 31, 2014 Doug Martin was medically cleared to resume his football career after suffering a labrum tear in his shoulder Week 7 of the 2013 season. The injury appears to be a thing of the past as of May 2014. He posted 3/6/0 rushing during a cameo during the first preseason game at Jacksonville. Martin handled 6/24/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the second preseason contest. Martin gained 12/38/1 rushing and 2/27/0 receiving at Buffalo in the third preseason game.
TB: Charles Sims has been lost for 12-14 weeks due to right ankle surgery - he's likely to go on IR/designated to return as a result of the procedure, which will cost him at least half the 2014 season.
TEN: Shonn Greene has had two right knee surgeries over the past 12 months - he complained of right knee soreness and swelling during the Titans' early-May minicamp and promptly went under the knife for an arthroscopic knee surgery (reported on May 11). Greene did not participate in organized team activities Monday, June 2. Greene was cleared for training camp on July 25, but reports on July 28 indicated that the Titans want him to lose 5-10 pounds during training camp. He posted 4/20/1 rushing vs. Green Bay in the first preseason game. Green had 9/46/0 rushing to lead the Titans at New Orleans in the second preseason contest. However, Greene said Friday, August 15, that he suffered a hyperextended knee in the preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. Greene suspects he will be OK. He did practice on Monday, August 18 and seems to not be affected by the ding to his leg. On Monday, August 25 we learned that Greene has lost five to 10 pounds to meet the team's weight goal after he missed most of camp due to his knee surgery. He looks ready to go for regular season.
WAS: Roy Helu (knee injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after posting 5/14/0 rushing and 2/23/0 receiving on August 7 at Washington. He played in the second preseason game with 3/8/0 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving. Helu had 7/30/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Baltimore during the third exhibition game.
WAS: Evan Royster (hamstring injury) did not participate in practice Sunday, July 27. He played in the first preseason game with 7/23/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving. Royster put up 1/2/1 rushing and 1/24/0 receiving vs. Cleveland on Monday Night Football. Royster handled 1/3/0 rushing and 2/26/0 receiving at Baltimore in the third exhibition game.
WAS: Chris Thompson (ankle injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after running for 4/5/0 and grabbing 2/12/0 receiving at Washington on August 7. On August 12 head coach Jay Gruden said of Thompson: "It’s disappointing. He’s got to figure out how to stay healthy.". The low ankle sprain kept Thompson sidelined for the second and third preseason games.
Wide Receivers
ARI: John Brown (hamstring strain) missed practice Saturday, August 2. He was also forced out of the session on August 5, and was spotted with the same leg/hamstring wrapped after practice. Brown caught five of his team-high 10 targets for 87 yards against the Texans Saturday night August 9, and was compared favorably to Anquan Boldin by the Cardinals' GM Steve Keim on August 12. He led the team in receiving at Minnesota in the second exhibition with four targets for 2/86/0 receiving. He handled eight targets for 4/56/1 vs. the Bengals in the third exhibition game.
ATL: Julio Jones broke his foot after just five games last season, but his rehabilitation is progressing well. As of April 22, 2014 Jones is expected to be limited during OTAs but ready to participate in full during training camp. On May 18, head coach Mike Smith confirmed that Jones would be limited during OTAs and mini-camp with the intention that he be ready to go in training camp. Smith also indicated that Jones is ahead of schedule on the rehab of his foot. Jones was able to make some cuts on the field during organized team activities Wednesday, June 4. On July 23, coach Smith indicated that while Jones will participate in practices he'll be limited during the first part of training camp. 'Our number one goal is to make sure that we've got everybody as healthy as we possibly can be, but we know that we have to get these guys some work together and reps. Julio will be out there participating in practice right from the start.' Jones has practiced for a limited amount of time during the first week of training camp as the team eases him back onto the field. He's been practicing on a one-day-on, one-day-off schedule - Jones didn't appear in the first preseason game. Jones was rested Tuesday, AUgust 12 as part of his normal schedule this preseason. Jones saw four passes for 2/20/0 in his preseason debut at Houston. Jones looked great in the third preseason game with a nifty 52-yard TD reception and 2/63/1 receiving.
BUF: Kevin Elliott was suffering from concussion-like symptoms due to a blow suffered in practice on Sunday, July 27. He didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game. Elliott did appear in the second exhibition at Pittsburgh, with one target for zero catches.
BUF: Marquise Goodwin was cleared to practice on August 5 after suffering a hamstring strain on August 1. He hauled in 1/18/0 receiving in the first preseason game. During the third preseason game vs. Tampa Bay he suffered a neck injury and didn't return to action - he'll be evaluated further.
BUF: Sammy Watkins (ribs injury) did not practice Monday, August 18. He sat out of the Saturday afternoon preseason game at Tampa Bay (August 23) due to his sore ribs, though he probably would have played if the game counted. Watkins (ribs) fully participated in practice Monday, August 25. Watkins said he will be able to play in the final preseason game if needed (but the team is expected to hold him out for precautionary reasons).
BUF: Mike Williams was stabbed in his thigh on March 23, 2014, after missing the second half of the 2013 season in Tampa Bay due to a torn hamstring. He reported to training camp on July 19 100% healthy - he is reportedly past the leg injuries that bothered him this spring. Wiliams started in the Hall of Fame game. Williams snagged 1/10/0 receiving at Pittsburgh in Buffalo's third preseason contest. Williams started across from Robert Woods on Saturday, August 23, in Sammy Watkins' absence.
BUF: Robert Woods participated in OTAs during late May after having ankle surgery during February, 2014. He opened training camp listed as one of the starting wide receivers across from Sammy Watkins - he is apparently past the ankle issue. Woods appeared in the Hall of Fame game, but didn't start. He saw eight targets for 4/31/0 in the second preseason game at Carolina. Woods led the team in receiving vs. Pittsburgh with six targets for 3/49/0 receiving. Mike Williams started across from Woods on Saturday, August 23, in Sammy Watkins' absence.
Ex-CHI: Domenik Hixon was released by the Bears with an injury settlement on June 3 after tearing his right ACL for the third time on May 27, 2014. Hixon appears to be planning on retiring from the NFL after his most recent ACL injury.
CHI: Marquess Wilson (broken right collarbone) underwent surgery Tuesday, August 5, and is out indefinitely. He may go to IR or IR/designated to return, but either way he's out for a big chunk of the season.
CIN: Marvin Jones suffered an ankle injury on July 21 - he is said to be day-to-day due to the relatively-minor injury. However, as of early August (August 2) he hadn't participated in any of the training camp practices - shortly after coming off the active/NFI list Jones broke the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot during practice on Saturday, August 10. The team hopes to have him back by week five of the regular season, but Footballguys.com injury expert Dr. Jene Bramel feels that 8-10 weeks or even 10-12 weeks are more realistic time frames for recovery from this type of foot injury/surgery/rehabilitation (Jones had a screw inserted in the bone to help aid the recovery). The bottom line is that Jones is out for an indefinite but long period of time during the upcoming season due to this injury.
CLE: Miles Austin was (once again) plagued by hamstring woes during 2013, and largely ineffective for Dallas, who released him on March 11, 2014. The wide receiver-hungry Browns took a gamble and signed him to a deal on March 15. Austin participated in practice on Saturday, July 26. He has reportedly been impressive during training camp, and posted 1/13/0 at Detroit in the first preseason game. He didn't catch a pass in the second preseason game. Austin saw six targets for 2/23/0 receiving during the third exhibition game.
CLE: Nate Burleson Burleson said on June 3 that he did not fracture his arm during an April minicamp and it was just a minor injury. He said the severity of the injury was exaggerated. Because there was no fracture, Burleson was able to run and lift weights with the cast on. Burleson participated in practice Saturday, July 26. He didn't catch a pass in the first preseason game. As of August 15 Burleson had missed the last couple days of practice due to a hamstring injury, and was not expected to play in Monday night's preseason game against the Redskins. He didn't practice on Saturday, August 16, either. He's continued to miss practices and didn't play in the third exhibition game.
DEN: Jordan Norwood (knee injury) was placed on the Reserve/Injured list Monday, August 25 - his season is over.
DEN: Emmanuel Sanders practiced fully on August 21 as he returned from a quadriceps injury - the team expected to have him in the lineup for the third preseason game. Sanders played very well in his return to action during the third exhibition game (5/128/2 receiving).
DEN: Wes Welker suffered his third concussion in ten months during the third exhibition game. He'll be out indefinitely while in the NFL's concussion protocols, though local beat writer Mike Klis reported on August 25 that Welker has a 'good chance' to play in the first regular season game. Concussion after-effects are notoriously unpredictable, however - stay tuned to see how soon Welker receives medical clearance to resume football activities.
DET: Ryan Broyles tore his Achilles tendon in October of 2013, but was given a clean bill of health on April 9, 2014 - he has resumed football activities. Reports on June 4 indicated that Broyles has worked on the placement of his feet, knees and hips, and is learning movements and proper form in order to eliminate future injuries. Broyles has already come back from two ACL tears and says the Achilles rehabilitation has been easier than the ACL rehabs. Reports in early July indicated that Broyles has lost some of his acceleration/explosiveness after the litany of injuries. He played in the first preseason game and snagged 3/27/0. He was second on the team with three targets for 2/42/0 receiving vs. Oakland in the second preseason game. He handled three targets for 3/44/0 receiving in the third preseason game.
DET: T.J. Jones is on the active/PUP list to open training camp due to a shoulder issue. He remained on the PUP list and will miss at least the first six weeks of the regular season as of August 23.
DET: Golden Tate opened training camp on the active/PUP list due to a sore shoulder dating back to OTAs. Tate is considered day-to-day and should join training camp shortly, although as of late July he is missing sessions. Tate appeared in the first preseason game and caught 1/14/0. Tate reeled in a TD pass from Matthew Stafford in the second exhibition, and posted three targets for 3/41/1 during the game. He had a solid outing in week three, with four targets for 3/36/0 receiving.
GB: Jared Abbrederis tore his right ACL on Thursday, July 31 and has been lost for the season.
GB: Jeff Janis missed the first seven practices of training camp due to a bout of shingles. However, Janis has made several big plays in training camp since returning from the illness. 'Jeff Janis has made a play every day he's been out there,' head coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday, August 12. 'He made another big play today. He looks good.' Janis hauled in a 34-yard TD pass in the second preseason game (one target for 1/34/1). He as thrown to twice vs. Oakland but didn't manage a catch.
HOU: Andre Johnson was forced out of practice on July 29 due to a strained hamstring. The severity of the strain isn't currently known. Johnson did not participate in practice Sunday, August 3. Johnson said he would like to play in the first preseason game but is not sure if he will. Johnson didn't play and hasn't practiced yet as of August 12. "They [Foster and Andre Johnson] practiced more than they had, and it’s a good sign for our football team," coach Bill O’Brien said on August 19 after joint practices with the Broncos. Johnson saw five targets for 3/18/0 at Denver on August 23.
IND: Reggie Wayne suffered a torn right ACL and meniscus damage in his knee on October 20, 2013. He is said to be recovering well and is reportedly ahead of schedule in rehabilitating the knee. On April 8 Wayne was said to be targeting the end of April to begin training/conditioning work - he appears to be on schedule for participating in the 2014 training camp. On July 23 Wayne was cleared for training camp - he'll likely be eased into training camp with lighter sessions at first. Stay tuned to see if Wayne suffers any setbacks once the pads go on. Wayne (knee) said on July 31 that he hasn't had any problems so far with his surgically repaired right knee. Wayne was held out of the first preseason game as a precautionary measure - the team is limiting his time in practices during training camp to help aid his recovery from knee surgery. He didn't catch a pass in the second preseason game. Wayne was a game-time decision for the third preseason game, and only played briefly (one target for zero catches).
JAX: Jaguars WR Marqise Lee (right ankle injury) said on June 5 that he believes he could be ready to return to organized team activities late next week. He said the team doesn't want to rush him back and that he will be ready for training camp. Lee was in a walking boot due to the injury as of June 3. Lee also battled a jammed wrist during OTAs - he's been nicked up a lot during the first month of his pro career. On July 25, Jaguars DM Dave Caldwell stated that Lee could see action at slot receiver while Ace Sanders is out on his suspension. Lee didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game, only played 16 snaps, and had his effort level called out by head coach Gus Bradley on August 9. He reeled in 4/27/1 out of four targets at Chicago in the second exhibition.
JAX: Allen Robinson (hamstring injury dating back to spring OTAs, that was re-injured in training camp August 1) will likely miss the team's second preseason game against the Chicago Bears.
JAX: Cecil Shorts had a sports hernia surgery in December, 2013 - as of April 23, he expects to be 100% healed very soon. We'll see how quickly the team doctors clear him for football activities. Shorts left the team's practice Wednesday, June 4, due to a minor calf injury, but he was on the field participating which is a positive sign about his recovery from sports hernia surgery. Unfortunately, Shorts suffered a hamstring strain on Friday, July 24 and is out 'several' weeks while his soft-tissue injury heals. He should be able to come back by week one of regular season if he doesn't suffer a setback later in camp. Shorts said on August 9 that he is ahead of schedule in his rehab from a hamstring injury but does not have a clear timetable for his return. Shorts said has been able to do some running and is feeling good. He is not expected to play in the second preseason game against the Chicago Bears. Shorts caught a few passes Tuesday, August 12, but didn't run any routes. Shorts returned to practices on Sunday, August 17. Shorts (hamstring) is expected to start in the third preseason game unless he suffers a setback during practice this week, according to head coach Gus Bradley on August 18. Shorts will be on the field for around 15 offense snaps during the third preseason game, according to head coach Gus Bradley on August 20. He saw two targets for zero catches during the third exhibition game at Detroit.
KC: Dwayne Bowe is nursing a quadriceps injury and a finger issue, and missed practice on August 21 due to the quad injury. He was held out of the third preseason game due to his injured quad (August 24).
MIA: Armon Binns tore his ACL and MCL in late July of 2013, and landed on IR for the season. He is reportedly (May 2, 2014) looking good in training sessions and appears to be on track to take part in training camp. He had one catch for six yards at Atlanta in the first preseason game. Binns saw three targets for 2/28/0 receiving in the second preseason game vs. Tampa. He handled three targets for 1/5/0 receiving vs. Dallas on August 23.
MIA: Brandon Gibson suffered a torn left patellar tendon during late October, and was placed on I.R. October 29, 2013, one day after corrective surgery. He has reportedly (May 2, 2014) looked good in offseason conditioning sessions. However, on June 7 local reports indicated that Gibson (knee) has only participated in one of the organized team activities this offseason, because he wants to go slow with his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament - the left knee injury was evidently more serious than initially reported. However, since the start of training camp Gibson has been going full speed and reportedly looks fully healthy as of July 26. Gibson caught the only TD that Miami scored in the first preseason game, with two targets for 2/14/1 during the contest. He saw three targets for 2/28/0 during the second exhibition contest. He started in the third preseason game but didn't garner a target.
MIA: Brian Hartline suffered a torn PCL in the 2013 regular-season finale, but surgery wasn't necessary to repair the ligament - it healed naturally. Unfortunately, Hartline suffered an undisclosed injury on Saturday, August 2 and was forced to sit out the first preseason game on August 8 as a result - he hasn't practiced since the injury occurred. He did appear in the second game at Tampa, with two targets for 1/5/0 receiving. He saw five targets for 3/25/0 vs. Dallas on August 23.
MIA: Matt Hazel suffered a concussion during practice Thursday, July 31, and will miss several days of practice. He will not participate in the team's scrimmage Saturday, August 2. Hazel did play in the first preseason game August 8, with three targets for zero receptions. He managed 1/5/0 receiving on one target in the second preseason duel at Tampa Bay. He saw three targets for 1/3/0 vs. Dallas.
MIA: Mike Wallace missed the weekend practices after being held out of practice on Thursday, July 31 due to a sore hamstring. He's expected to be back in sessions shortly, but soft tissue injuries can linger if they are not allowed to fully heal. Wallace returned to practice on Monday, August 4. However, he was unable to play in the preseason contest on August 8 due to the sore hamstring - it is becoming a nagging injury, apparently, and has been a problem for about two weeks as of August 8. Wallace saw three targets for zero receptions at Tampa Bay. He led the team in receiving during the third exhibition game with eight targets for 6/67/0 receiving.
NE: Danny Amendola tore a tendon in his groin early in the 2013 regular season, and the injury was a nagging issue for him all season long. However, reports on May 8, 2014 indicated that he avoided a groin surgery and enters spring OTAs 100% recovered from the injury. Reports in June indicated that Amendola looked outstanding during OTAs - we'll see how he holds up once the pads go on and hitting starts in training camp. Amendola was reportedly looking well and playing well in a joint practice with Washington on August 6. He snagged on pass for nine yards vs. Philadelphia on August 15. Amendola managed 2/13/0 receiving on two targets on Saturday,
NE: On March 10, 2014 Aaron Dobson underwent surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot. The timetable for his recovery is said to be two-to-three months, which should put Dobson in good shape for training camp if all goes according to plan. However, Dobson started training camp on the PUP list (July 21), so he isn't ready to play yet. He was doing some work on August 14, but Dobson was limited to some position drills during practice Thursday, and is still not cleared for contact.
NE: Jeremy Gallon, a seventh-round draft choice from Michigan, practiced sparingly in spring camps due to an undisclosed injury. He was officially placed on the active/PUP list on Monday July 21.
NE: Kenbrell Thompkins ended the playoffs on the inactive list due to a concussion - he should be fine for training camp, but once a player has suffered a concussion they are more susceptible to future brain traumas. He caught one pass for 11 yards at Washington during the first preseason game. He saw four targets for 3/32/1 receiving in the second exhibition game. He recorded three targets for 2/35/0 in the third exhbition.
NO: On March 26, Saints' head coach Sean Payton stated that he doesn't expect Marques Colston's nagging foot injuries to go away in 2014, and indicated that Colston will be limited in practices most weeks. However, on July 4 Colston stated that he has no restrictions due to the foot and that he feels 'really good'. Time will tell if the foot flares up again during training camp/preseason. Colston snagged 2/10/0 receiving