This article covers the known ongoing injury issues/new injury issues (such as Kelvin Benjamin's recent season-ending knee injury) for fantasy-relevant players at the offensive skill postions - QB, RB, WR, TE, PK - among all 32 NFL teams. Player comments and coaches' statements regarding the status of the injuries are included when relevant. Also, I have noted where appropriate whether the player in question played/appeared in the first preseason games (or not).
Please note that not every camp body at the various training camps will be included in this report - only skill position players expected to make the final 53-man rosters of the NFL teams or players with a reasonable chance to make the final 53-man rosters will be covered. Sixth-string tight ends will likely not appear among the players listed below (as one example). The information in this report is current through Noon ET on August 20, 2015.
For a more indepth examination of the various injuries listed below, I commend to everyone Dr. Jene Bramel's Second Opinion columns which delve into the mechanisms of the various injuries and probable outcomes/rehab courses. His catalogue of work is HERE, and it is an invaluable resource regarding NFL injuries available here at Footballguys.com.
Quarterbacks
Blake Bortles, JAX - Jaguars GM David Caldwell said on July 2, 2015 that Bortles suffered from "dead arm" as a rookie. Bortles spent time late in the season on the injury report with a shoulder issue, and presumably that contributed to his lack of ability to throw the ball properly. Bortles has spent time over the offseason working to refine his passing mechanics. On August 6, Jaguars GM David Caldwell said the difference between Blake Bortles from last year to this year is "night and day." He appears to be recovered from the "dead arm" issues.
Sam Bradford, PHI - Bradford tore his ACL during the 2014 season and was traded to Philadelphia during the offseason - he stated on March 11 that he expects to be ready to practice as of the start of training camp later this summer. Bradford was cleared for 11-on-11 drills Sunday, August 2, and head coach Chip Kelly told reporters the quarterback doesn't have any restrictions on his practice participation. Bradford has not missed a play so far during training camp, and as of August 10 has reportedly shown "no signs" of the injury that sidelined him for the entire 2014 season. He's displayed a "cannon for an arm" and the ball "flies out of his hand." However, reports out of Philadelphia indicate that Bradford isn't moving around much in camp and some observers (as of August 14) insist that Bradford isn't 100% healthy, noting that Bradford was held out of the first preseason game.
Derek Carr, OAK - Carr (finger injury) said he felt 100 percent in his return to practice Tuesday, June 10. He is expected to participate in training camp despite the ding to his ring finger. Carr played in the first preseason game on August 14, and seems to be past the finger injury.
Ryan Fitzpatrick, NYJ - Fitzpatick is expected to be ready for the start of training camp as of March 19, 2015, and he participated in OTAs during May - his fractured leg (tibia) seems to be healed and he's good to go for training camp. With Geno Smith now on the bench due to a broken jaw, Fitzpatrick is starting for the Jets - he's past the broken leg.
Matt Flynn, NYJ - Flynn (ankle) is recovering from an injured ankle and won't be ready to play for another week, according to head coach Todd Bowles on August 19. Flynn recently signed a one-year deal with the Jets.
Robert Griffin III III, WAS - Griffin dislocated his left ankle in Week 2 during 2014 and missed nearly two months. He returned for three games, but never seemed to be on the same level physically - he stated after the season (January 29) "Last year I wasn't healthy, and it sucked, there's no other way to say it." There have been mixed reports about Griffin during OTAs - some say he's made progress, while others indicated that "he's done" - time will tell this tale, but Griffin isn't on a lot of "must-own" lists entering 2015 after the struggles of recent campaigns. Griffin played in the first preseason game on August 13 with 4/8 for 36 yards passing, zero TDs or interceptions, and one rush for three yards.
Carson Palmer, ARI - As of March 5, 2015 Palmer was reported to be ahead of schedule in his recovery from a torn ACL in his knee - the second such tear of his career - and he expects to be ready for the start of training camp. On June 9, Palmer was cleared to participate in 11-on-11 drills with his teammates - Palmer commented regarding his recovery: "I feel great," he said. "I probably never worked this hard in my life and I've always worked hard. I feel as fast as I've ever been, as quick as I've ever been, I'm stronger than I've ever been just because I've been going since late November." On July 16 he stated that he's "not even thinking about" his surgically-repaired left knee. "I’m still rehabbing just to be on the safe side of things, but I don’t need to be at rehab," Palmer said. "I’m full go in the weight room, full go on the field, and until it’s brought up, I haven’t thought about what I’m not doing because I’m doing everything I was doing." Palmer threw 4/4 for 77 yards passing, zero TDs or interceptions against Kansas City in the first preseason game.
Tony Romo, DAL - Romo struggled with his lower back at times during 2014, and has reportedly given up all other sports (including golf) during the offseason in a bid to keep his back healthy for the upcoming 2015 campaign. Romo has not needed surgery this offseason and enters training camp healthy, a nice change from 2014. He didn't miss a single OTA or mini-camp session earlier in the summer - Romo is good to go on the eve of training camp. As of August 19, Romo has practiced in four straight sessions - he seems very healthy thus far in training camp.
Geno Smith, NYJ - There are reports on Tuesday, August 11 that Smith suffered a broken jaw in training camp on Tuesday. If the reports are confirmed, Smith may miss more than a month while his jaw heals. CBS New York is citing a 6-10 week time frame on Smith's return to the field: "Jets quarterback Geno Smith will miss 6-10 weeks after suffering a broken jaw in a locker room altercation on Tuesday morning, the team announced. Smith, who went into training camp as the starting quarterback, will have surgery." He may not be back on the field until Week Six of regular season, and it remains to be seen if he'll get his starting job back.
Drew Stanton, ARI - Stanton is expected to participate in OTAs (taking a majority of the first-team snaps with Carson Palmer sidelined due to an ACL reconstruction/ongoing rehabilitation) with no restrictions - his injured knee has healed without further surgery. He was reported to have no limitations as of April 22, 2015. Stanton had a rough outing in the first preseason game, going 0/3 passing.
Running Backs
Jay Ajayi, MIA - Ajayi reportedly enters his rookie season with bone-on-bone contact in his right knee - while not technically injured, that condition requires pain management/drainage techniques and doesn't set Ajayi up for a long NFL career. We'll see how the knee responds to the pounding of NFL training camp. Reports on August 3 indicated that Ajayi has underwhelmed observers early in the Dolphins' training camp. He missed practice on Sunday, August 9 due to a sore hamstring. All told, Ajayi missed almost a week of practice and the Dolphins' first preseason game with the hamstring injury before resuming practicing on August 15.
C.J. Anderson, DEN - Anderson's shoulder bang is considered minor. Head coach Gary Kubiak said on August 8 after practice, “He got his shoulder banged and he wanted to go, but I told Greek [Head Athletic Trainer Steve Antonopulos] to take him out.” Anderson played in the first preseason game, but dinged up his ankle. On August 15 Anderson said "My ankle's fine. It's more I was sick. I didn't start feeling good until halftime." Anderson was dealing with flu-like symptoms during the preseason game.
Joique Bell, DET - Bell has sat out the late May/early June OTAs as he recoveres from offseason Achilles' and knee surgeries - in February the expectation was that Bell would be ready for OTAs after "clean up" surgeries were performed in late January, but that has not turned out to be the case. He opened camp on the active/PUP list and the current word is the team plans to bring him along slowly during training camp as he works his way back to 100% healthy. He is not taking part in practice sessions as of July 29. On August 4, Bell stated that he doesn't know when he'll resume practicing. "Coach Caldwell has a better idea of when I might get back as far as the evaluation of my injuries." Meanwhile, Caldwell is on record as saying, "Sometimes, you don't know" when asked to place a timetable on Bell's return to practice. As of August 18 Bell remains on the active/PUP list - though he was said to be working out increasingly as of August 11, he still isn't cleared to practice.
LeVeon Bell, PIT - Bell is said to be getting close to 100 percent healthy as of April 23, 2015 - he missed the final game of the season due to a reported knee "sprain", but if it has taken four months to heal the injury must have been fairly significant. In any case, he'll miss the first two regular season games of 2015 due to a drug-and-DUI-related NFL suspension. Bell started training camp on the active roster and looked healthy in back-to-back practices, so any concerns about the knee "sprain" are receding. Bell ran for 2/18/0 rushing and added 1/9/0 receiving against the Jaguars on August 14.
LeGarrette Blount, NE - Blount failed his conditioning test when camp opened - he'll have to satisfy the coaches that he's ready for the rigors of training camp before he is allowed to participate fully. Also, Blount is suspended for the first game of the season due to the same incident that netted Le'Veon Bell a two-game suspension. He did participate in practice on Saturday, August 1. Blount dodged a major scare with his right knee, Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald reports. Blount was injured during Friday’s (August 7) practice, but his MRI showed no structural damage, according to a team source. Though he didn’t practice Monday, August 10, he was running uphill sprints with the rehabilitation group on the back of the practice field midway through the workout. Blount was cleared to return to practices on August 15.
Reggie Bush, SF - Though Bush was nicked an dinged up a lot while playing with the Lions last year (only 11 appearances, some partial), he has consistently impressed since signing with the 49ers according to multiple reports out of California. He is expected to be at full go for training camp. Bush was held out of the first preseason game, but that was because the coaches already have a good notion of his capabilities, according to local reports.
Jamaal Charles, KC - Charles missed just one game during 2014 but revealed in April 2015 that he was slowed by ankle, knee and hamstring issues. "I was frustrated more last season than I’ve ever been because of all of those injuries," he stated. "I was frustrated because I didn’t feel my body was right the whole season." Charles is reportedly past the nagging issues that dogged his 2014 season. Charles didn't appear in the first preseason game.
David Cobb, TEN - Cobb suffered a broken finger in the Saturday, August 1 training camp practice. He returned to practice on Sunday, August 2, however. He'll receive treatment from the trainers as necessary, but this doesn't sound like a major injury concern as of the first week in August. Cobb "deserves" to run with the first team during the second preseason game, according to comments from head coach Ken Whisenthunt on August 15. Cobb posted 11/53/0 rushing with 1/1/0 receiving in the first preseason game on August 14 while playing with the second team.
Tevin Coleman, ATL - COleman is nursing sore hamstrings as of the start of training camp - he'll reportedly miss a few weeks while his sore leg heals up. Coleman returned to practices on Monday, August 17, and fully participated in practice on wednesday, August 19.
Lance Dunbar, DAL - Dunbar (ankle) was not on the practice field Saturday, August 8. Dunbar has been dealing with a sprained ankle, but head coach Jason Garrett has already said he doesn't think the injury is serious. He returned to practice on Saturday, August 16, but has had issues with fumbling in sessions since his return.
Shaun Draughn, CLE - Draughn (hand, wrist injuries) is wearing a cast on his left hand and wrist Sunday, August 9, and there is no timetable for his return at this point.
Andre Ellington, ARI - Ellington reportedly looked 100% healthy at OTAs on June 8, 2015 - he struggled with foot injuries, ankle dings, and a hip injury during 2014 (and had surgery to correct a sports hernia after going on IR in early December, 2014). On May 10, Ellington stated: "It's like night and day. During the season I was limited on some cuts going to the right, pushing off my left foot. I'm close to doing a lot of things I've done in the past. Just (this week) I was able to do all my cuts and put a lot more pressure on my foot." Reports on June 15 indicated that Ellington is considered the "linchpin" of the Cardinals' rushing attack. However, as of Monday, August 3 Ellington missed practice due to a tightened hamstring - the injury is not considered serious at this time, according to head coach Bruce Arians. Ellington posted 3/3/1 rushing and led the Cardinals in receiving with 2/59/0 receiving during the first preseason contest on August 15. The team has signed Chris Johnson for depth/possible committee duty, though.
Arian Foster, HOU - Foster finished 2014 by exiting the week 17 game with knee and hamstring dings, but he's fully participated during OTAs and is entering training camp healthy. Unfortunately, he tore his groin muscle in padded practice on August 3, and will be out anywhere from 4-8 weeks. There is some speculation that Foster will avoid the IR/Designated to return list - we'll see how quickly he heals from the corrective surgery. A determination on his status to start regular season won't be made for about a month, so the team has time to survey his rehab/recovery time frame before deciding whether to place Foster on the IR/Designated to Return list.
Devonta Freeman, ATL - Freeman's hamstring injury is not believed to be serious but he could miss some time because of the injury. Freeman injured his hamstring during practice Thursday, August 6, and may miss one-to-two weeks of sessions. Freeman returned to practices on Monday, August 17, and fully participated in practice on Wednesday, August 19.
Todd Gurley, STL - Gurley began training camp on the active roster, not PUP, an encouraging sign that his ACL rehab is progressing well. As of July 28 the team website indicated that it is a "possibility" that Gurley would start during week 1, regular season. Fantasy owners considering Gurley should monitor his practice participation/lack thereof during the upcoming training camp. On Friday, August 7 it was revealed that Gurley (knee) is coming along slowly from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee, and head coach Jeff Fisher said it's unlikely that Gurley plays in the preseason. Reports on August 12 indicated that the Rams are expecting him to miss the first few games of regular season as well - there doesn't seem to be a hard-and-fast schedule for his return to the field as of mid-August.
Kendall Hunter, SF - Hunter missed all of 2014 due to an ACL tear suffered on the first day of training camp last summer. He is reportedly in great shape now, though, and appears to have fully rehabbed the injured knee. He's expected to fully participate in the 2015 training camp/preseason. Hunter was held out of the first preseason game on August 15 to "rest".
Carlos Hyde, SF - Hyde opened training camp on the NFI list for one day due to a minor calf injury (July 28), but he was removed from the list on July 29 and should be fine to participate in training camp. He had a 2/6/0 starter's cameo during the first preseason game.
Fred Jackson, BUF - Jackson (hamstring injury) was out of the scrimmage Saturday, August 8. Reports on August 18 indicated that Jackson is dealing with a "major" hamstring issue, according to head coach Rex Ryan. Ryan hopes Jackson will be able to return for the Bills' third preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers Saturday, August 29.
Rashad Jennings, NYG - Jennings did play in the season finale, but he was impacted by both knee and ankle injuries during the 2014 season - he was nicked up a lot and only appeared in 11 games for the Giants last season. Keep an eye on him during training camp in case new, nagging injuries pop up. Jennings rushed twice for 14 yards and caught two passes for one yard in the Giants' preseason opener on August 14.
David Johnson, ARI - As of August 3, Johnson is considered day-to-day due to a hamstring injury of unspecified severity. He finally rejoined practices on August 18, but has missed the bulk of training camp so far - and Arizona signed Chris Johnson to provide additional depth in the running back stable.
Duke Johnson Jr, CLE - Johnson suffered a hamstring injury during practice on Saturday, August 1. Head coach Mike Pettine said on Sunday, August 2 that Johnson's injury will keep him out "a little while" - he's missing valuable training camp reps approaching his rookie season. Johnson (hamstring) did not participate in practice Sunday, August 9 as his injury continues to be an issue. Johnson finally returned to partially participate in practice oN Saturday, August 15. Johnson was in uniform, but he spent at least part of the practice riding an exercise bike on the sidelines. However, Johnson (hamstring) was not practicing for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, August 18.
Matt Jones, WAS - Jones is considered day-to-day with a sore knee. He posted 5/38/0 rushing and 1/11/0 receiving in the first preseason game August 13.
Eddie Lacy, GB - Lacy (foot) left practice Tuesday, August 4, due to a sore foot. RB James Starks finished out practice with the top unit. No indication was given as to which foot was sore and forced Lacy from workouts. Lacy stated on Friday, August 7 that the right foot soreness which limited his training camp reps earlier last week was a "random" injury, and he doesn't expect it to linger. After an off day Wednesday, Lacy practiced Thursday and Friday. Lacy said his foot feels good, and he expects it to stay that way. Lacy had 5/36/0 rushing to his credit in the first preseason game (August 13).
Tre Mason, STL - Mason (hamstring) was held out of practice with a tight hamstring Thursday, August 6. He posted 2/6/0 rushing during the first preseason game (August 14).
LeSean McCoy, BUF - McCoy (toe) fully participated in practice Thursday, August 6. He had missed a couple of sessions due to a sore toe. However, he is out as of practices as of August 19 due to a hamstring injury suffered on August 18. McCoy (hamstring) will have an MRI on the hamstring injury that caused him to leave practice Tuesday. The hamstring is not off the bone, however, according to initial reports.
Darren McFadden, DAL - McFadden sat out of OTAs in early June to a hamstring strain - no surprise to fantasy owners who have watched his fragility manifest often during the Oakland years. We'll have to watch and see if the hamstring issue extends into training camp, as there is no word on the severity of the hamstring injury. He did participate in sessions later in June, and is said to be healthy as training camp opens - but Dallas owner Jerry Jones endorsed Joseph Randle as the team's new work-horse back on July 29 as the Cowboys cranked up the 2015 training camp. McFadden (hamstring) could make his debut at training camp as early as Saturday, August 8, after dealing with a strained hamstring. He said on August 7 that he has done some running and cutting without any setbacks the last few days. The Cowboys expect him to increase his workload after the first preseason game (August 13). On August 18 McFadden got the bulk of first-team reps and looked good - "Boy, if we can keep him out there, he'll tear their you know what up," stated owner Jerry Jones.
Adrian Peterson, MIN - Peterson (thigh bruise) was limited in practice Tuesday, August 18, but he did some work without a helmet late in practice, after the other players had removed their pads. The thigh injury is considered a minor ding right now.
Chris Polk, HOU - Polk (hamstring) is dealing with a minor hamstring injury, according to local reports on August 4. On August 8 coach Bill O'Brien said Polk could be a good "three-down" bac k.
Trent Richardson, OAK - Richardson (illness) said he battled pneumonia for a couple of weeks before the start of training camp, but he's feeling fine now and practiced for the first time Thursday, August 6. He was listed as the second-string back on the first depth chart of training camp, August 10.
Stevan Ridley, NYJ - Ridley opened training camp July 29 on the active/PUP list - as expected after Ridley got in only limited work at OTAs. Ridley remains a candidate for reserve/PUP, which would cost him the first six games of regular season. Reports on August 18 indicated that Ridley's chances to avoid PUP diminish by the day - he looks unlikely to contribute to the Jets at least early in the year.
Antone Smith, ATL - Smith resumed practicing on June 2 after rehabbing a broken leg suffered at mid-season during 2014 - he is expected to be full go for training camp in July/August. However, he suffered a hamstring injury duing the first preseason game on August 14, and may miss one-to-two weeks while recovering.
C.J. Spiller, NO - Spiller did not practice Friday, August 7 due to unspecified reasons. Spiller had arthroscopic knee surgery on August 14 - the current hope is that he'll rehab the knee by Week One of regular season, but there is a lot of time for setbacks between now and then...stay tuned on this story. On August 19, reports indicated that Spiller should be ready for the start of the regular season, according to head coach Sean Payton.
Robert Turbin, SEA - Turbin had an offseason hip surgery - on June 1 reports stated that Turbin might miss the bulk of training camp/preseason due to the rehab process, and additional reports on July 6 indicated that he might miss week 1 of regular season as well. It doesn't sound like Turbin's rehab is going great as of the eve of training camp. He did resume practicing with the team on August 5.
Terrance West, CLE - West suffered a calf injury during practice on Saturday, August 1, and will likely miss a few days of training camp as a result. Reports on August 3 indicated that the coaches are not happy with west's approach to practicing/conditioning and that he looks "chunky" at training camp to some observers. West missed the team scrimmage on Friday, August 7, due to this ongoing injury issue.
Karlos Williams, BUF - Williams (undisclosed) is dealing with an undisclosed serious injury and will miss multiple weeks according to reports on August 18.
Ryan Williams, DAL - Williams sat out of practices during the Cowboys' June OTAs due to swelling and pain in his surgically repaired knee. He was placed on I/R July 28 - his season is over (also likely that his NFL career is finished).
Danny Woodhead, SD - Woodhead (ankle and leg injuries) is healthy, according to head coach Mike McCoy. “He looks the way (he did) the snap before he went down (in Week 3),” McCoy said Monday, June 8. Woodhead is reportedly past his 2014 injuries and expected to play a key role on third downs for the Chargers. Woodhead had one run for an eight-yard TD in the first preseason game on August 13.
T.J. Yeldon, JAX - Yeldon (finger) sprained a finger on his left hand when his hand slammed against the helmet of LB Jeremiah George on a touchdown run during the scrimmage Saturday, August 8. Head coach Gus Bradley said Yeldon 'should be good.' On Monday, August 10, Yeldon practiced but he wore a red non-contact jersey. Yeldon is still in the non-contact jersey as of Tuesday, August 18.
Wide Receivers
Jared Abbrederis, GB - Abbrederis suffered a torn right ACL on August 1, 2014 and spent his rookie season on IR. He is expected to be full go for training camp after fully participating in the Packers' late May OTAs (despite an erroneous report that said he had sat out). He's still not practicing as of August 17 due to an ongoing concussion recovery. Abbrederis is reported to be on the roster bubble.
Cole Beasley, DAL - Beasley (Achilles') was added to the injured list Tuesday, August 18, due to a sore Achilles.
Odell Beckham Jr NYG - Beckham said on July 22 that his right hamstring "feels a lot better" after he missed most of offseason workouts due to a pull. We'll see how the hamstrings respond to the rigors of training camp (a left hamstring pull cost him training camp and most of September during 2014). As of August 10, Beckham Jr. (hamstring injury) will travel with the team for their practices and preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals, but he will continue to be limited during practices. Right now, the hamstring issue is considered minor, and the team doesn't want to rush him back and then worsen the problem. Beckham played in the first preseason game but didn't reel in a reception (August 14). He was held out of practice on Wednesday, August 19.
Kelvin Benjamin, CAR - Benjamin suffered a strained hamstring during May, and as of June 8 he's been sitting out of OTA practices. Head coach Ron Rivera indicated on June 8 that he expects Benjamin back in the mix during the second week of June. Rivera reiterated on July 23 that he expects Benjamin to be full go once training camp opens up despite the sore hamstrings earlier in the summer. However, Benjamin went down with a non-contact knee injury on August 19, and it is feared that the injury is serious. A MRI is scheduled for later in the day on Wednesday, August 19. Unfortunately, the MRI confirmed a torn ACL in Benjamin's knee - he is out for the season.
Dwayne Bowe, CLE - Bowe (hamstring injury) did not participate in the scrimmage Friday, August 7, nor did he practice on Sunday, August 9. Bowe missed the first preseason game and hasn't practiced since August 5.
Jaron Brown, ARI - Brown was participating in early June OTAs without any issues with his fracture shoulder. As of June 2 he appears to have fully healed (the shoulder blade didn't require a surgical repair). Brown played in the first preseason game on August 15, hauling in 1/12/0 out of four targets.
Dez Bryant, DAL - Bryant says his hamstring is tight, but he's OK. Bryant came up limping after a catch and a dunk over the goal posts Thursday, August 6. Bryant strained his left hamstring in practice on August 6 and has been sidelined since - he is expected to miss the second preseason game as of August 17. Bryant (hamstring) was wearing full pads at practice Tuesday, August 18, though.
Martavis Bryant, PIT - Bryant may miss the Hall of Fame game on August 9 due to a procedure to clean up an elbow infection. Currently, the infection isn't considered a major concern, but he is missing time to begin training camp. Bryant had the cast removed from his elbow on Saturday, August 9 - he underwent a minor elbow procedure roughly one week ago, was on the field working out prior to Sunday night's Hall of Fame game. Bryant caught a 44 yard TD pass during the first preseason game and finished with 3/55/1 receiving - his elbow seems to be fine as of mid-August.
Marques Colston, NO - Colston was placed on active/PUP to begin training camp on July 28, due to an undisclosed injury. Right now, reports are that the injury is a minor concern and that Colston will be back on the practice field soon. According to reports from the Saints' scrimmage on Friday Night, August 7, Marques Colston is Bree's number one target so far during preseason. Brees led a touchdown drive mainly by connecting on two big throws to Colston during Brees' one series on the field. Colston, 32, missed almost all of OTAs and minicamp with an unspecified injury, but he gradually worked his way into full-team drills during the past week. Brees said throwing to Colston was "like riding a bike... He's a stud. He's such a pro,". Brees and Colston were held out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons.
Chris Conley, KC - Conley exited the Wednesday, July 29 training camp practice with a strained knee. He may be absent up to a week while he rehabs the injury with trainers. As of August 10 he was back at practice with the second team.
Brandin Cooks, NO - Cooks is reportedly past the thumb injury that derailed his rookie season - he is widely expected to be the lead target at wide receiver in New Orleans this year. Monitor his practice participation during training camp just in case the thumb is dinged up again. He handled three targets for 1/28/1 receiving in the first preseason game on August 13.
Victor Cruz, NYG - Cruz enters training camp rehabbing his knee due to a torn patellar tendon - as of July 7, he was reportedly expecting to fully participate in training camp. On July 28, teammate Prince Amukamara stated: "I'm telling you, this guy looked fab... I'm telling you. Remember that I said this. This guy looks faster now than he did before." Cruz (knee) is considered doubtful to play in the preseason game Friday, August 14. He will practice in team drills but won't partake in scrimmages. Cruz hasn't missed a practice yet during training camp. On August 17 the Giants lifted all restrictions from Cruz who is now practicing fully with the team.
Bruce Ellington, SF - Ellington struggled through a late-season hamstring injury during December 2014. As of August 4 he was out of practices due to a left leg injury - he's dinged up again...
Julian Edelman, NE - Edelman (undisclosed) came up gimpy during practice Sunday, August 2, and rehabilitated during practice Tuesday, August 4. He missed four practice sessions last week before returning to action on Monday, August 10. Edelman hasn't participated in team drills since August 2, and missed the first preseason game. Edelman (ankle) worked out at Gillette Stadium Wednesday, August 19, and was not with the team for their joint practice with the New Orleans Saints.
Mike Evans, TB - Evans suffered a hamstring tweak during OTAs, but is expected to participate fully in training camp. Evans participated in the first preseason game on August 15.
Michael Floyd, ARI - Floyd (hand) will have surgery on his dislocated fingers. He's expected to be out three-to-five weeks as a result of the injuries/corrective surgeries. As of Friday, August 7, there is no clear-cut timetable for his return, according to head coach Bruce Arians. As of August 18, Floyd (dislocated fingers) has had the stitches removed from his left hand. Floyd tweeted Tuesday that "everything is coming along." The team hopes he'll be ready for the first week of regular season.
Devin Funchess, CAR - Funchess suffered a hamstring injury of unspecified severity during practice Wednesday, August 19, and could miss a few days, according to comments by head coach Ron Rivera. Given the season-ending knee injury to Kelvin Benjamin, the Panthers need Funchess back sooner rather than later, but we'll see how quickly Funchess can heal up from this ding.
A.J. Green, CIN - Green had a concussion hamper him during the wild card round of the playoffs, and was out for the playoff game as he didn't exit the concussion protocols in time for the game. He is healthy for the beginning of training camp. Once a player suffers a concussion, however, they tend to become more prone to repeat brain traumas, something to consider when looking at Green as a fantasy option. Green participated in the first preseason game with one target for 1/16/0 receiving.
Dorial Green-Beckham, TEN - Green-Beckham missed the offseason program due to a hamstring injury. He's expected to participate during training camp. As of August 11, the Titans have begun mixing second-round pick Dorial Green-Beckham into the first-team offense at training camp. He saw two targets for 1/32/0 receiving at Atlanta during the first preseason game.
Percy Harvin, BUF - Harvin has been missing practices due to ongoing issues with his injured hip. He had an injection into the hip on August 18, according to head coach Rex Ryan. Ryan called Harvin's injury "worse than first thought".
DeAndre Hopkins, HOU - Hopkins sat out 2015 OTAs after February surgery to repair a torn ligament in his wrist. As of August 3, Hopkins is participating in Texans' training camp - we'll see how the wrist holds up under the rigors of practicing. Hopkins caught a two-point conversion in the first preseason game on August 15.
DeSean Jackson, WAS - Jackson (separated shoulder) is expected to miss a few weeks of camp because of a Grade 2 shoulder sprain, according to sources on August 6, 2015. He sat out of practice on Monday, August 10, as expected, and the team has revealed that he also has a hamstring injury hampering him as of the second week of training camp. Redskins coach Jay Gruden said on August 17 that Jackson (sprained AC joint) is "feeling pretty good." "He’s got almost full range of motion back," Gruden said. Jackson may be back in time for the third preseason game.
Alshon Jeffery, CHI - Jeffery did not participate in practice Monday, August 3, because he suffered a sprained AC joint in his shoulder over the weekend. He'll be evaluated further to determine the severity of the AC joint injury. He is also missing practices due to a calf injury, though he did take off the walking boot from his injured leg on August 18. Jeffery (calf) will not play in the Bears' second preseason game Monday, August 24, as he continues to heal from a calf strain. He will travel with the team, however.
Marvin Jones, CIN - Jones stated on July 20 that the 2014 surgery to remove bone chips in his foot/ankle region was a complete success. "We looked at it, got it fixed, and it’s not there anymore," said Jones. "It was an unfortunate situation, but it’s behind me." Jones figures to start across from A.J. Green again this year. Jones (hamstring) returned to practice Saturday, August 8. Jones had been sitting out of sessions because of a sore right hamstring. After practice on August 19, Bengals OC Hue Jackson said Jones is "starting to look like Marvin Jones again." It appears that Jones is getting back into "football shape" as of mid-August.
Brandon LaFell, NE - LaFell opened training camp on the active/PUP list due to an undisclosed injury. He had previously worn a protective boot on one foot during OTAs, so this move may be related to a (hopefully minor) foot problem. As usual, the Patriots didn't enlighten anyone about the specific reason why LaFell was placed on PUP. He didn't appear in the first preseason game.
Marqise Lee, JAX - After missing OTAs with a knee injury, Lee has been "noticeably inconsistent" at training camp, according to local reports on August 1. Lee has struggled with his conditioning, and he's also had drop issues reported. Lee will miss an additional two weeks of practices, the Jaguars revealed on August 19. He's been out for two weeks due to a hamstring issue that is continuing to cause trouble.
Jordy Nelson, GB - Nelson had a "clean-up" surgery on his hip during the offseason. Nelson was expected to be fine as of March 25, but sat out of the Packers' late May OTAs as he continues to recover from the procedure. When asked on May 28 if he had a timetable to return to practices, Nelson responded "Not necessarily. We're just going to continue to progress going forward." Nelson is expected to be ready for the opening of training camp according to the most recent reports, and on July 29 he avoided being placed on the active/PUP list as the Packers opened their training camp. Reports on July 29 indicated that he should be fully participating in practice sessions within a couple of weeks. Nelson has been playing well during training camp, and seems fully recovered as of August 19.
Chris Owusu, NYJ - WR Saalim Hakim received extra reps in practice Friday, August 7, after WR Chris Owusu (head) left with an injury of unspecified severity. Later examinations revealed that Owusu suffered a concussion, and he'll have to undergo the NFL-mandated concussion protocols before resuming football activities.
DeVante Parker, MIA - Parker (foot injury/corrective surgery on June 5) might be limited for the start of training camp, QB Ryan Tannehill hinted Monday, June 8. Reports on June 9 indicated that Parker's timetable to return from the surgery is 8-12 weeks - he might be ready for Week One of regular season, but he will have missed all of training camp/preseason if the latter timeframe is how this injury progresses. Parker opened training camp (July 29) on the active/PUP list, as expected. We'll see how soon he is able to get involved in training camp (or not). As of August 4, Parker is estimated to be three-to-four weeks away from being able to practice, according to local sources. He was taken off the PUP list on August 19, but his timetable for a return to action is still Week One of regular season.
Breshad Perriman, BUF - As of August 2, Perriman (knee) may take more time than the team initially hoped he'd need to recover from a bruised knee. The injury is still not regarded as long-term at this point, but the rookie is missing valuable training camp reps. As of August 8, Perriman's "bruised and strained" knee has cost him ten days of Ravens training camp. Perriman has missed eight practice sessions during that 10-day span. Head coach John Harbaugh confirmed on August 18 Perriman's (knee) MRI came back normal, but that the first-rounder is still dealing with swelling. Harbaugh also is now calling the injury a sprain.
Terrelle Pryor, CLE - Pryor (hamstring) said on August 4 he's feeling good despite dealing with a pulled hamstring. Pryor aggravated his hamstring injury on August 18, and is now questionable for Thursday's preseason game.
Brian Quick, STL - Quick enters training camp rehabbing from an extensive shoulder surgery after tearing his rotator cuff at the end of October, 2014. Quick's surgery was reportedly major, repairing three torn ligaments as well as his rotator cuff. He took part in individual drills during OTAs and as of July 11 reports indicated that the Rams are hopeful he can play when regular season opens. He was held out of the August 15 preseason opener.
Rueben Randle, NYG - Randle (knee tedonitis) didn't practice Wednesday, August 19. He's trying to get soreness out of a knee.
Emmanuel Sanders, DEN - Sanders (hamstring injury) was not participating in practice Saturday, August 8. As of August 18 Sanders has been sidelined the last 11 days with a hamstring injury. He's expected to sit a few more days and is doubtful for the preseason game Saturday, August 22 - Sanders admitted on the 18th that the injury was more than a "cramp".
Devin Smith, NYJ - Smith's specific injury is three fractured ribs and a partially punctured lung, according to reports on August 2. He'll be out four-to-six weeks healing from the injuries, which means he may not be ready to play until mid-to-late September.
Steve Smith, BAL - Smith was out of practice Saturday, August 8, for a second straight day (undisclosed reason).
Kenny Stills, MIA - Stills (calf injury) did not participate in practice Sunday, August 9. He's missed about a week of sessions due to his lingering calf injury. Stills (calf) returned to practice on Monday August 17.
Rod Streater, OAK - The Raiders placed WR Rod Streater on the active/NFI list to open training camp on July 31. He was reported to be past his fractured foot during OTAs, so the reason for his placement on NFI is unclear. There is speculation that he failed his conditioning test to open camp, but that hasn't been confirmed by the team. He was finally activated from NFI on August 16.
Sammy Watkins, BUF - Watkins told reporters he was 100% healthy (presumably past his hip injury) when he arrived at camp on July 29. He acknowledged the coaches may decide to limit his reps early and he’ll need to see how his body responds when he begins football-related activity at full speed. He should start camp on the active roster. However, Watkins (hip) left practice early Thursday, August 6, because of soreness in his surgically repaired hip. Head coach Rex Ryan said at the time that he does not believe Watkins is dealing with anything serious. Watkins returned to practice on Saturday, August 8. He caught one pass for six yards in a preseason-game-one cameo on August 14.
Wes Welker, FA - Welker was cleared to resume football activities on April 30, according to Dr. Stanley Herring, the Seahawks' team doctor and a member of the NFL's Head, Neck and Spine Committee. Welker remains an unsigned free agent after being released by the Broncos.
Kevin White, CHI - White opened training camp on the active/PUP list due to an ongoing shin issue that limited him during OTAs/sidelined him during minicamp. As a rookie playing for John Fox, White's path to a starting gig was already obstructed - missing time during training camp won't help his cause. White is still on the Physically Unable to Perform list as of August 3, and there is no timetable for his return, according to head coach John Fox. Fox said he considers White's status as day-to-day. On August 6 it was reported that White's issue is shin splints, and that he will resume "running" during the second week of August. White is expected to start jogging Monday, August 10, and the team is reportedly not worried about his status for the start of the regular season. White (shin) was able to do some backpedaling, light jumping and agility drills at half speed during practice Monday, August 10. Head coach John Fox said the team has a plan for White and that White has been able to do some exercises. However, White has been forced to undergo surgery on a shin fracture due to a setback with the shin as of August 15, and is reported to be in danger of missing the entire season - he'll definitely miss the first six weeks of regular season, at a minimum.
Roddy White, ATL - White battled nagging knee and ankle injuries during 2014, which affected his speed and burst. He is 33 years old and looks to be on the downside of his career as rebounding from the daily grind in the NFL becomes increasingly difficult the older a player is - White sat out portions of June mini-camp due to his balky knee while rookie receiver Justin Hardy got some work with the first team. Reports on July 29 indicated that White is going to need knee drainage on a regular basis during 2015.
Tight Ends
Dwayne Allen, IND - Allen missed the Colts offseason conditioning program due to an ankle injury/ongoing rehab of said injury. Allen played through a high-ankle sprain late in 2014, and was trying to get the ankle fully healthy in time for training camp, according to early June reports. He didn't handle a pass during the first preseason game on August 16.
Jace Amaro, NYJ - Amaro hurt his back during 2015 OTAs and missed minicamp. He is expected to practice/participate during training camp. However, Amaro suffered a shoulder sprain in Friday's preseason opener (August 14) and is considered week-to-week due to the injury.
Jordan Cameron, MIA - Cameron had a shoulder injury and a concussion limit him during 2014 (10 games appeared in), but he finished the year on the field and was signed to be the lead tight end by the Dolphins during the offseason - he appears to be past last year's injury woes.
Scott Chandler, NE - Chandler (undisclosed injury) will not play in Thursday’s preseason opener. As of August 12, Chandler hasn’t practiced in the last four days.
Larry Donnell, NYG - Donnell has shed his walking boot as of July 26 after dealing with Achilles' tendinitis earlier this spring. He is expected to be at full go during training camp. However, he's still battling the Achilles' issue as of mid-August (he did have one catch for five yards in the first preseason game on August 14).
Tyler Eifert, CIN - Eifert was cleared to practice at the opening of training camp on July 30 - he seems to be past his most recent shoulder/elbow injuries and the associated rehabs. Now the question becomes can he stay healthy during preseason? So far, so good - Eifert caught two passes for 30 yards in the Bengals' preseason opener against the Giants on August 14.
Joseph Fauria, DET - Fauria missed June OTAs due to a lingering ankle injury dating back to September, 2014, that he opted to not have corrected via surgery. Fauria didn't catch a pass in the first preseason game.
C.J. Fiedorowicz, HOU - Fiedorowicz (knee surgery) practiced without restrictions at OTAs. Fiedorowicz has reportedly fully recovered from his January knee scope. He had one catch for six yards against the 49ers on August 15.
Garrett Graham, HOU - Graham was held out of the week 17 season-finale game in 2014 due to an ankle injury, and missed other games during December as well. We'll see if he can be effective as training camp gets under way for the Texans this week. Graham caught one pass for nine yards in the preseason opener on August 15.
Josh Hill, NO - Hill (undisclosed) did not participate in practice Monday, August 3, but was present at practice. He did dress for practice on August 7, but he was not thrown to during practice on Sunday, August 9, according to local reports. However, Hill led the team in receiving on August 13 at Baltimore with 3/40/0 receiving on three targets.
Vance McDonald, SF - McDonald ended the 2014 season on IR (December 9) due to a back injury - at the time the injury wasn't considered major. He is reportedly on the roster bubble entering the 2015 training camp. He had one catch for eight yards in the preseason opener on August 15.
Tony Moeaki, ATL - Moeaki struggled to stay on the field for the Seahawks during 2014, battling calf and shoulder injuries (he eventually made eight catches in six games played). He was brought in to compete for a slot on the Falcons' roster slot on March 19, 2015, after he wound up his Seahawks stint with zero catches in the Super Bowl on February 1, 2015. Moeaki was healthy as of June 25 according to reports and is expected to enter training camp ready to compete with Jacob Tamme. Moeaki played in the first preseason game on August 14 but didn't catch a pass.
Troy Niklas, ARI - Niklas had multiple high-ankle sprains during the 2014 season, and eventually had ankle surgery (after being sent to IR in Week 11, 2014). As of April 21, 2015 he was cleared for all football activities. He is expected to start for the team after John Carlson retired during the offseason. However, he required another ankle "procedure" on June 11 after re-injuring his ankle during mini-camp (June 10 reports). Niklas came off the active/NFI list on August 3, and is working his way back onto the field as of mid-August.'
Niles Paul, WAS - Paul is lost for the season due to a broken/dislocated ankle suffered in the first preseason game.
Logan Paulsen, WAS - Paulsen went on injured reserve August 16 with a severe case of turf toe, ending his 2015 season.
Dennis Pitta, BAL - Pitta began training camp on active/PUP despite his ongoing rehab of his surgically-repaired hip - he's dislocated the hip twice over the past two seasons and seems to be a long-shot to actually play during 2015. On August 18, the Ravens announced that Pitta will begin the season on the reserve/PUP list, costing him at least six games.
Jordan Reed, WAS - Reed played in 11 games for the Redskins last season, but suffered from knee discomfort during OTAs and had a "procedure" in June - that turned out to be a stem cell shot to his knee and not an arthroscopic procedure, though. As of July 11 he was reported to be on track for training camp, and on July 29 reports out of Washington indicated that Reed was fully cleared for the start of training camp. Reed is nursing a sore hamstring as of August 19, but his competition for the starting job (Niles Paul, Logan Paulsen) has already been lost for the season due to injury. Reed (hamstring) has been ruled out for Thursday's preseason game against the Lions. Reed has been described as "day to day" for a week.
Kyle Rudolph, MIN - Rudolph battled ankle and knee injuries during December, 2014, and didn't manage a catch when active during week 17. We'll see if more nagging problems crop up for him during August - he hasn't been very durable so far during his career. He caught two passes for 24 yards in the preseason opener on August 15.
Craig Stevens, TEN - Stevens was placed on IR October 8, 2014 due to a quadriceps tendon injury/surgery. We'll see how well his rehab went as training camp progresses.
Julius Thomas, JAX - Thomas played through an ankle injury to close 2014, then received a huge contract from Jacksonville during offseason - presumably, the ankle passed examinations before the team signed Thomas. However, Thomas (back) missed the last part of practice Thursday, August 6, because of tightness in his back. Thomas fractured his hand on August 14, and his participation for Week One of the regular season could be in jeopardy, depending on how quickly he heals from the injury. Thomas was on the field in a red non-contact jersey on Tuesday, August 18.
Delanie Walker, TEN - Walker (hand) left practice Thursday, August 6, due to an apparent injury to his left hand. Walker had 12 stiches put in his hand, and is expected back during the second week of August.'He returned to practices on August 12.
Place Kickers
Dan Carpenter, BUF - As of early April, Carpenter was recovering from an unspecified offseason surgery. We'll see how effective he is during training camp. Jordan Gay handled the kicking duties in the first preseason game. Carpenter was activated from the NFI list on August 16.
Robbie Gould was hampered by a quad injury at the end of the 2014 season, leaving the Bears to start replacement Jay Feely in December. We'll see if Gould is healthy during preseason. Gould was active in the first preseason game and kicked a 48 yard field goal among four successful field goal kicks during the game. He looks good to go as of mid-August.
Caleb Sturgis, MIA - Sturgis (quad injury) was a full participant for the start of training camp on July 30.
Sturgis suffered the left quad injury at a team-organized kickball event earlier during the summer. He looks good to go as of August 2.
Shaun Suisham, PIT - Suisham has a torn anterior cruciate ligament and cartilage damage in his knee, and the team will almost surely place him on injured reserve, ending his season. The 10-year veteran was injured on the opening kickoff of the second half Sunday night's first preseason game in Canton, Ohio. He was placed on IR August 12 and is done for the year.