Purdy reportedly underwent a UCL repair (not traditional Tommy John) on 3/10/23. In other words, his surgeon was able to literally repair the ligament without starting from scratch. This timeline for a baseball pitcher is approximately 9-12 months but given the fact QBs throw much less volume and overall intensity than a pitcher, Purdy has a legitimate shot at being back by Week 1. At worst, this will extend to 7-8 months - not a 12+ month doomsday scenario. Now, all of this is barring the surgeon and the SF medical staff clear Purdy to compete.
Projected Return Date: September 9, 2023 - October 7, 2023
Williams is young, a freak athlete who will have more than 9 months to recover after an ACL injury. However, his injury is more comparable to J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards from last season as opposed to Breece Hall's. Williams faces an uphill battle and is at high risk to begin the season on the PUP. Not to say he can't contribute to the Denver offense in 2023, but he should not be relied on heavily in fantasy spaces.
Projected Return Date: August 5, 2023 - November 4, 2023
Hall had ACL/meniscus surgery on 11/18 placing his 9 month "safe" date around the August. On average it took 13 RBs (who had surgery in October or later) 10.7 months from the time of surgery to return game action meaning Hall has a legit chance to return by Week 1. Hall comes with some inherent risk but his best comparison is 2021 Saquon Barkley as they are in nearly identical situations with eerily similar athleticism and biometrics. Those who remember Saquon's 2021 season correctly will recall that until his Week 5 ankle injury, he was on track to finish as RB10. The platitudes on podcasts and live-streams this summer will almost certainly tout "maybe next year" on Hall. This will enable sharp fantasy gamers to exploit what could be the steal of 2023 fantasy football drafts. Realistically, Hall won't be let loose until late September - but he’s worth the wait. PREVIOUS: Hall has a confirmed torn ACL with minimal meniscus damage per Ian Rapoport. Expect a very similar recovery timeline that Saquon Barkley followed in 2021. If he has no setbacks, he should be able to perform to an extent by the 10-11 month mark. Expect a small to moderate production drop off and a breakout 2024
Projected Return Date: September 9, 2023 - October 14, 2023
Watson practiced on Friday for the first time this week. That helps his odds to play in Week 17. He'll be more volatile than usual as re-injury is always possible.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022
UPDATE: Deebo returned to practice on Thursday but there's no guarantee he plays. As a result, if active, Deebo is a boom/bust option due to volume/usage/re-injury concern. Deebo took a nasty fall and injured his MCL. It's also being reported as an ankle injury - more than likely a high ankle. A mild version of both injuries can cost players ~2 weeks. With both injuries in play, it's safe to assume Deebo won't return until Week 17 - fantasy championship week.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022 - January 7, 2023
UPDATE: Lockett has been limited in practice and has a decent shot in Week 17. He's a boom/bust WR2/3 this week as an in-game setback is possible. However, he's a must start in most scenarios. Unuseable in cash. As mentioned before this injury is very similar to Chris Godwin's from 2020. Lockett could return in Week 17 with minimal volatility. Continue monitoring his practice status.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022 - January 7, 2023
Gibson is officially OUT in Week 17.
Ekeler has been limited in practice with a vague knee issue but nothing of note is visible on video. He's a must-start in season long and there's minimal health concern for cash games.
Conner has been DNP 2 days in a row with an illness. He’s a must-start in season long but a slight fade in cash.
Hurts is officially doubtful as Philly wisely chooses the safest route.
According to Tom Pelissero, Pollard's status for tonight is very much in doubt. Be sure to have a backup option. This makes Zeke a prime candidate for cash lineups and even Captain consideration.
Williams was rolled up on in Week 16 but was able to return. By video it seems to be an MCL injury. He'll likely play but there's a chance that he has limited usage around the goal line. This makes D'Andre Swift intriguing for DFS purposes.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022
Aaron Jones has been dealing with an ankle injury since Week 9. The result is a modest dip in snaps/carries/targets. Ultimately, unless you have a super roster, Aaron Jones is a must start. The hope is that he gets into the endzone this week.
Mike White has been cleared for Week 17 action. He'll be moderately volatile due to recurrence risk and playing through pain.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022
Tua is once again in the concussion protocol and is highly unlikely to play in Week 17.
Update: Johnson was quoted as saying this about the toe injury. *“Johnson did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday, but he claims it was just a precautionary move. "It was just a little toe, nothing major. I am good. I am going to be out there tomorrow. They just gave me a little two days off to let it rest. It's nothing major."* This tracks as Johnson has had minor toe issues before. This still warrants monitoring but it isn’t nearly as concerning with this context. Johnson was unable to practice 2 days in a row after a limited session on Wednesday. He's not trending in the right direction and even if active, he'll be hard to trust in that offense.
Projected Return Date: December 23, 2022 - December 31, 2022
UPDATE: Carroll says that Walker will play. Monitor the inactive very, very closely. Regardless, consider other similar options if available. ————— UPDATE: Walker has not practiced 2 days in a row now. He doesn’t have to practice to play but the odds of playing and playing effectively in Week 14 are waning. If active, he’s a must-start in most formats but not useable in cash games. Meanwhile DeeJay Dallas has not practiced either making Travis Homer the back to target but temper expectations. —————— UPDATE: Ian Rapoport confirmed that Walker's injury is an impingement and not a sprain. Rapoport also states the ankle swelled up and was painful. As of today, Walker is at high risk to sit 1-2 weeks. \------------ Walker was ruled OUT in Week 13 due to an ankle injury. He was later seen with his right foot propped up on the sideline. After the game Walker told reporters that he didn't sprain the ankle but that he "jammed it". Based on video analysis it does seem that walker stepped hard and potentially "jammed" his right ankle. Depending on severity, Walker has a chance to return at less than 100% next week. However, if severe enough, this is a 2-4 week injury.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 17, 2022
The Packers say Dillon cleared concussion protocol. He'll likely play in Week 16 however he'll still be volatile as the protocol is not a perfect science.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022
Goedert will make his official return in Week 16. He's min to moderately volatile but a must-start at the TE position.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022
UPDATE: Harris is officially OUT in Week 15 —————- Harris has missed 2 games with a thigh issue but typically these injuries are between 3-4 weeks. He has a decent shot to play in Week 15 so he's a priority to add if somehow on waivers given Rhamondre Stevenson's status.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Tyler Boyd will miss 1-2 games with a finger injury per Tom Pelissero.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022 - December 31, 2022
Rhamondre looks to have suffered a an eversion/high ankle sprain. On video it appears that the foot is not fully planted which can end up reducing the severity. This could explain why he was able to return briefly. From a comparison standpoint, this is very similar to David Montgomery's injury from earlier this season that led to just 1 missed game. If Rhamondre is active, he's moderately to highly volatile but given his role, he'd still be a must start.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Unfortunately Kyler Murray went down with a non-contact knee injury that was very consistent with an ACL tear. The Cardinals have confirmed that is the fear. Kyler will take 10 months from his day of surgery (not day of injury) to get back to high performance.
Much like other skill players over the last two weeks, WIlson suffered a hip injury. There's a chance he has a minor labrum injury and/or muscle sprain. He's at high risk to sit this week and if he's active is still highly volatile due to recurrence.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
UPDATE: According to Aaron Wilson, Pierce does indeed have a high ankle sprain and that he'll miss 1-2 games. The average amount of missed time for RBs after a high ankle sprain since 2016 is 2.5 weeks. Don't expect to see Pierce until Week 16 (if not Week 17). \------------ The Texans have said “it would take a lot” for Pierce not to play in Week 15. Additionally Aaron Wilson reports that this is not believed to be a high ankle sprain. Typically a low grade lateral or “low” ankle sprain takes 7-14 days to bounce back from. Pierce will be cutting it close and re-aggravation risk is high. However, he’s still got flex appeal against the 20th ranked KC rushing DVOA.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022 - December 24, 2022
UPDATE: Per Mary Kay Cabot Cooper injured his hip on the first play of the game. Considering he didn't make any contact on that play, there's a decent chance this is a groin issue. Cooper is a warrior but he's just as likely to re-injure the issue if he plays in Week 15. He's not a must-start. ————— UPDATE: Schefter: Cooper to play ————— Cooper was limited on Thursday with a hip injury. Similar to Diontae Johnson this could be a soft tissue strain. His volatility is min-moderate but overall there’s not a lot of concern.
This is Davis' second concussion since 2019. As we've seen with Joe Mixon and Treylon Burks this year, returning 1 week after head injuries is less common than before. Don't plan on having Davis in Week 15 and if he's active, he's highly volatile.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022
Wilson was ruled OUT with a head injury in Week 14. Given the current NFL concussion landscape the chances of him playing are slim on a 1 week turnaround as we've seen with Matthew Stafford, Tyrod Taylor and Tua (the second time). If he is active, he's not playable as the fantasy playoffs start and a recurrence is possible (which would lead to a zero in the FF boxscore).
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Carolina called this injury an ankle sprain but Adam Schefter turned around today and said it's a knee issue. On video, this looks very similar to Deebo Samuel's injury from Week 14 but given the fact Moore is "day to day" there's at least hope it isn't serious. If active in Week 15, Moore will be highly volatile.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022 - December 31, 2022
This is unfortunately Pickett's second concussion of the season. The chances of him playing are slim and he's highly volatile if active in Week 15.
Huntley was ruled OUT with a head injury in Week 14. Given the current NFL concussion landscape the chances of him playing are slim on a 1 week turnaround as we've seen with Matthew Stafford, Tyrod Taylor and Tua (the second time). If he is active, he's not playable as the fantasy playoffs start and a recurrence is possible (which would lead to a zero in the FF boxscore). This does elevate the chances Lamar Jackson returns a bit early but he would also be volatile although to a lesser degree.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022
UPDATE: In an odd turn of events Ben Baby reports that Higgins wasn't supposed to play at all before "sneaking" onto the field on the third snap of the game. It's unclear if Higgins had a setback or was literally lost in pre-games and unable to communicate with coaching staff. For now, assuming there wasn't a true setback, he's got a decent chance at playing in Week 15. Monitor this was closely throughout the week. \----------- Tee Higgins is questionable to return with a hamstring strain. These injuries are always brutal to fight through and as of now Higgins is also at high risk to miss Week 15. —————— Higgins was LP on Thursday with a hamstring strain. This is less than ideal but the sky isn't falling yet. He's not a high percentage cash play this week but overall he's still a must start barring a setback.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Sal Paolantonio: Saquon Barkley will play today. Fire him up everywhere except cash games.
Sutton has yet to practice this week and is highly unlikely to play in Week 14. \------------ Sutton was ruled OUT in Week 13 with a hamstring strain. He's at high risk to sit if he returns in Week 14. Even if he plays, the data also shows he's a highly volatile play on such a quick turnaround.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Hurst is now dealing with a calf injury. The 29 year old has not been able to escape the soft tissue injury bug this week. He's at risk for missing the rest of the 2022 fantasy football regular season.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 31, 2022
As Jacobs enters a Thursday night game in Week 14, he's a must-start everywhere. With that in mind, continue to insulate the RB position as this calf injury still isn't totally resolved.
Burks was ruled OUT with a concussion. With the new concussion protocol, he's at high risk to sit as of today.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022 - December 17, 2022
Jimmy G was ruled out and based on video, this doesn't look good. Best case scenario he has a high ankle sprain. Worst case, it's a fracture/dislocation. As always video is not diagnostic so stay tuned for updates.
UPDATE: Etienne is officially active. \------------ Etienne was ruled out in Week 12 with a foot injury. There has yet to be clarity on whether this was his left or right foot. Based on video, the primary plausible mechanism is injury to the left foot but further reporting should help clarify. A re-injury to the left foot would make the most sense and a secondary hypothesis is left turf toe. As it relates to RBs with a foot injury since 2018, 59% of the sample missed 0-1 games and only 27% of that sample missed 4 or more games. In addition to being declared "probable" to return mid-game, Etienne continued to stand on the sideline after the injury and in the post-game presser there was no mention of a walking boot. All things that point to Etienne hopefully missing only 0-1 games at worst. A grade II or worse (which seems unlikely) would cost him at least 2 games. Ultimately amount of time Etienne misses will depend on the severity and how conservative Jacksonville decides to take this if it is indeed a reinjury.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022
UPDATE: Dan Graziano reports Joe Mixon is "highly unlikely" to play in Week 13. \------------ Mixon still has not completely cleared concussion protocol. Similar to Matthew Stafford earlier this season, Mixon returning in Week 13 will be at moderate risk for re-injury. If you still roster Samaje Perine don’t drop him yet. Make sure to check-in on final statuses heading into Sunday to ensure Mixon will indeed play. Start him everywhere but less so in DFS and prop bets.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 10, 2022
UPDATE: Jeudy is active in Week 13. He's startable in desperate situations. \----- Nathaniel Hackett calls Jeudy day to day. For now it's safe to operate this is either a peroneal tendon injury or a calf strain. Both injuries would cost Jeudy approximately 2-4 weeks on the long end depending on the severity. However given his "day to day" status, continue to monitor his practice status.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Fournette was a full participant this week and the only risk of reinjury is if he has not taken contact yet. Otherwise, he should be at full speed.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 3, 2022
UPDATE: Jaylen Warren will return in his first week from a hamstring strain. As we know 20-25%% of all hamstring strain recurrences occur in the 1st week back from the injury. Since Najee Harris has also dealt with his own injuries all season, this places Benny Snell in the conversation as a stash candidate in deeper leagues. If Warren or Harris re-injure themselves there’s no guarantees of production out of that backfield but make the Snell addition anyway as a hedge. \------------ Warren told reporters that "doctors cleared him" to return. This is great news for Warren but given the current state of that backfield (Najee injured) there's a non-zero chance both Warren and PIT are pushing his timeline. Benny Snell is still an upside handcuff. Definitely grab Snell if Warren is one of the only RBs on your roster.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 3, 2022
UPDATE: This is unlikely to be a ceiling game for Chase if he plays. In fact the attention might be to get his feet wet against a good opponent before fully unleashing him in Week 14. Chase likely suffered an avulsion fracture which is associated with soft tissue strains. These injuries will heal but what's more important to point out is that Chase also reportedly has a labrum injury. The labrum of the hip is resilient, but can continue to follow the rest of this year as good rehab outcomes aren't totally predictable. This bumps him to the minimal to moderately volatile ROS. With that said, Chase is the walking definition of league-winner. \---------- The Bengals want the flexibility to bring him back before then which, in theory, implies some confidence he can return before Week 13. Chase has a hip fracture which is associated with a hip (soft tissue) strain according to multiple reports. These injuries will heal but what's more important to point out is that Chase also reportedly has a labrum injury. The labrum of the hip is resilient, but can continue to follow the rest of this year as good rehab outcomes for these injuries aren't totally predictable. This bumps him to the minimal to moderately volatile ROS. With that said, Chase is the walking definition of league-winner if contenders are able to steal him away at a "discount".
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - December 10, 2022
UPDATE: Najee was ruled OUT with an “abdomen” injury on Monday night. Since 2019 the average amount of missed time for skill players with “abdomen” injuries is 1-2 games. The only documented case of re-aggravation in that sample is Alex Collins. At this point it could be that the injury wasn’t too serious (despite it forcing him out of the game) but re-injury just 6 days after a strain is in the cards. He’s volatile making Warren a high upside handcuff. \------------ Najee was ruled OUT with an “abdomen” injury which is an umbrella term that could include any of the core muscles that attach at the groin. Since 2019 average missed time for skill players on the injury report with “abdomen” is 1-2 games. If classified as a "groin" injury, the average missed time is 1-3 games with a Median of 18 days. For now, we'll wait for the team to report more on this injury.
UPDATE: Fields was finally a full participant in practice but that doesn't mean he’s in the clear from a performance standpoint. The injury has never seemed too serious from the onset but if the Bears feel like they dodged a bullet, the designed rushing attempts for Fields could suffer. Ultimately this situation is fluid enough that it’s hard to trust Fields in cash games until he proves it. Otherwise, he'd be minimally volatile for a reinjury in Week 13. \------------ UPDATE: Fields has been practicing all week in a limited fashion and it's unlikely he took contact. Even though it’s his non-throwing shoulder, all it takes is one tackle or sack to re-aggravate the shoulder. Certainly he’s pushing to play like every athlete does but the Bears might make the executive decision to sit him. Hopefully by now you have a replacement. If he is active, consider him moderately volatile to re-injure. \------------ Fields went down twice on the last Bears drive. First, he landed on his left shoulder which would implicate his AC joint. An injury that, if not severe, shouldn't cost him any time at all. In a worst case scenario world, he's out 1-2 weeks. On the following play, it looks on video like Fields' neck was forcibly flexed and he may have sustained a "stinger". Again, an injury that if not severe, shouldn't cos him much time at all. Seeing as video is not diagnostic of severity, it's best to wait and see what the Bears report. For now, Fields could miss anywhere from 0 to 2 games at worst.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 3, 2022
UPDATE: CMC’s knee issue can be traced back to Week 4. Ultimately, this is a load management issue that he could re-aggravate but the bottom line is he’s likely been dealing with this all year. The truth is we’ll need to see how much of a workload McCaffrey will get in Week 13 but he should play at the very least. \-------------- CMC was not practicing Wednesday but that in and of itself is not concerning as CMC didn't practice any Wednesdays while with Carolina. Continue to monitor his status. He's at moderate risk to sit but if this issue can be resolved by resting him all week in practice, that's what the Niners will likely do. \-------------- McCaffrey was on the sideline wearing a patellar "tendinitis" brace and Kyle Shanahan says he had a "knee irritation". Shanahan said in a press conference "hopefully" McCaffrey will be alright. CMC is likely dealing with patellar tendinopathy which is pain at the front of the knee. This can come on traumatically as it did with DK Metcalf in Week 7. Other times it's gradual. Regardless, the solution is load-management and rehab, but that definition can vary widely. In a worst case scenario San Francisco decides to shut him down 1-2 weeks so he can get right. The most realistic outcome is McCaffrey doesn't practice much this week and he gives it a go in Week 13 with capped volume. This situation warrants monitoring all week.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Michael Carter DOUBTFUL for Week 13 per Robert Saleh. \------------------------- Michael Carter, upon further review, does indeed have a lateral "low" ankle sprain. Still, more than 80% of athletes need more than 3 days to rehab and recover and another portion needs even more than one week. Even if he's active, he's highly volatile this week. Zonovan Knight is a priority add this week.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Rodgers will undergo an MRI and/or CT scan today to assess if there is structural damage to his ribs. The best case scenario for Rodgers is very similar to Justin Herbert from earlier this year where he does not practice but plays. If he does have damage, he'll be out 2-4 weeks. Continue to monitor this one as Rodgers being down is an obvious downgrade to his skill players.
UPDATE: Mooney is officially out for year per the Bears. \------------------ Tom Pelissero reports that Mooney could need season-ending surgery and Ian Rapoport adds that Mooney has torn ligaments in his ankle. This is a very similar injury that Michael Thomas sustained in 2020. Mooney should be back at nearly full strength in 2023.
Projected Return Date: May 27, 2023 - August 27, 2023
Mitchell is now dealing with another MCL sprain on the opposite side this time. Kyle Shanahan states he could miss time. The average amount of missed time for a grade II injury is about 3 weeks.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Siemian hurt in warmups, OUT in Week 12. Pick up the Jets defense anywhere you need to.
Rapsheet: Robinson unlikely for Week 12.
Gus ACTIVE for Week 12.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Mostert OUT in Week 12.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Hollywood will play in Week 12 after sitting out 6 weeks. He's moderately volatile for cash games as a recurrence with these injuries is always possible. However, with Rondale Moore OUT and Greg Dortch looking doubtful, he may step into a decent amount of targets. He's startable despite the volatility.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - November 26, 2022
JuJu Smith-Schuster on track for Week 12. Continue monitoring the official actives/inactives to be sure.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - December 3, 2022
Williams officially OUT in Week 12.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Everett was af full participant on Thursday and should return in Week 12. He's minimal to moderately volatile.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - November 26, 2022
As of Friday afternoon Moore had not practiced this week. Typically these injuries result in 1-3 weeks of missed time.
Projected Return Date: December 3, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Chase Edmonds has a high ankle sprain and will be out "several weeks" per Tom Pelissero. Suddenly Latavius Murray is the waiver wire add of the week.
Projected Return Date: December 17, 2022 - December 24, 2022
Jameson Williams was designated to return to practice. While the rookie is still at risk for soft tissue injuries and knee flare ups, the Lions have played this intelligently and he should be close to a full-go from a physical perspective.
Projected Return Date: November 23, 2022 - December 3, 2022
Daboll confirms Robinson tore his ACL. Assuming it’s not anymore than isolated ACL Robinson should be on a very similar return schedule Robert Woods was on. Unlikely for preseason games but Week 1 realistic.
Projected Return Date: August 5, 2023 - September 19, 2023
Pitts has a complete MCL tear and was placed on IR. He's droppable in all formats. Rapoport reports "barring some sort of significant difference in the second opinion" he'll have surgery. This is a less serious injury than an ACL tear and dynasty managers should not fret.
Projected Return Date: April 2, 2023 - July 9, 2023
Njoku ACTIVE in Week 11.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 19, 2022
UPDATE: It appears that Zeke will give it a go. He's moderately volatile moving forward due to performance and re-injury concerns. His right knee injury from Week 7, despite being considered minor, is the third injury to that knee dating back to 2021. Despite finishing Week 7 it's worth noting that during the Cowboys' last 5 drives, Zeke played just 36% of the snaps. For managers looking to get out of the Zeke game (or into the Pollard high upside handcuff game), this might be the window to do so. If you've got 1-3 wins and need to welcome variance onto your roster, Zeke is a (meh) trade target. He's simply more volatile moving forward (again). Target Pollard aggressively instead.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Keenan Allen a full participant in practice for the first time since Week 1. He's a volatile option at this point until he can prove the hamstring injury is behind him but he's useable in most 12 team non-DFS leagues.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 19, 2022
UPDATE: Hopkins was not at practice Thursday and Darren Urban noted it was a "maintenance" issue for Hopkins. Keep a close eye on the report as a hamstring strain for a 30 year old WR has a chance to devolve quickly. \------------- Hopkins will undoubtedly be thrust into the Cardinals offense. The reality is regardless of his training and conditioning over the last 2 months, he has not played in an NFL game. Temper expectations as he'll be a soft tissue injury risk until he gets his feet under him.
UPDATE: Andrews FP on Friday. Good chance to play in Week 11. \------ Andrews sat in Week 9 which was a smart call to allow Andrews' shoulder to get right. By the time Week 11 rolls around, Andrews will be 3.5 weeks removed from an injury that usually results in 2-4 weeks of missed time. Week 11 is a good target date for him to return. Week 12 would be the conservative route.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Stafford is still in concussion protocol. 2022 has been a crazy year and concussions are not linear but Stafford has a decent chance to clear before Week 11.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 19, 2022
Rapoport tweets that Kupp will be placed on IR and undergo the tightrope procedure. Given the NFL IR rules paired with the optimistic projected return of these injuries between 6 and 8 weeks, the soonest Kupp could realistically return is in Week 15. However, if the Rams decide there's nothing to play for, they could simply shut Kupp down for the season. Teams who really need a bench spot and don't have an IR spot can cut Kupp with minimal concern as he won't be near 100% even if he returns in the fantasy playoffs.
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022 - January 14, 2023
Ertz sustains season ending injury. He's done for 2022 and is droppable.
UPDATE: Schefter: Allen to start . You start him to but don’t expect a ceiling game
Projected Return Date: November 12, 2022 - December 3, 2022
Dotson’s was a recurrence so he’s at higher risk to recur again. At the very least he'll be active.
Projected Return Date: November 12, 2022 - November 12, 2022
Mecole OUT in Week 10.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Despite being a full participant on Friday and Deon Jackson being ruled out, it’s totally possible JT re-injures the ankle. He has to start in most leagues but he’s not touchable in cash games. He’s highly volatile until he proves the ankle is fully health. Jonathan Taylor was obviously limited in Week 8 by the same lateral ankle sprain from early October. Last season we saw Saquon struggle through a lateral ankle sprain after his return - that is the current floor outcome for Taylor. Given the offensive situation and his health, managers might consider moving Taylor for a less volatile top 10 player. The Hines trade might give more optimistic fantasy gamers a false sense of security trading for JT. At the very least, JT managers should consider asking Deon Jackson for some safety and non-JT managers should add him for contingent upside.
Projected Return Date: November 12, 2022 - November 12, 2022
Renfrow has been placed on IR and will miss the next 4 weeks.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022
Waller was sent to IR and will miss the next 4 games.
Projected Return Date: December 10, 2022 - November 19, 2022
Cobb was placed on IR prior to Week 7 and will need to miss at least another game before being eligible to return.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 26, 2022
In 2021 when Swift was healthy he averaged 73% of snaps, 7 targets and 6 catches. Since returning to the field in Week 8 he's averaged 36% of snaps, 5 targets and 4 catches. On one hand it's good to see the targets are there. On the other hand, his playing time dipped significantly in Week 9 and he played just 16% of snaps. Swift is no more than an RB2 with lottery ticket upside at this point if he ever gets healthy. That's a big "if". Pride of Detroit recaps that Dan Campbell never intended to play Swift a full allotment of snaps in Week 8. Campbell said of Swift “We probably gave Swift one too many carries. We love Swift. Glad he’s out there, but he’s not back.” This confirms that Swift is still not back to 100% after sustaining an injury that appeared to be at least an eversion sprain if not a high ankle in Week 1. Then he appeared to suffer an AC sprain against the Vikings. The good news is it sounds like (hopefully) Swift made it out the other side healthy. He’ll continue increasing reps according to Campbell.
Multiple reports indicate OBJ is looking at a mid-November return placing him at 9 months post-op. Sports med data on ACL recovery suggests re-tear risk of an ACL decreases approximately 51% every month after surgery until month 9 (which is why the Gallup and Godwin returns were surprising at 7.5 and 8 months). This situation is a bit different given OBJ already re-tore once and a third tear is statistically more likely compared to a first time tear. But by waiting at least 9 months, OBJ's risk is at least slightly mitigated. Overall he's at moderate risk of re-tear, moderate risk of workload related soft tissue injury, and is unlikely to be a full-go util month 10 post-op. However, it's reasonable to expect 80-90% of prime OBJ once he gets his feet under him. He's worth a stash in most formats for contenders who understand the risks.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - December 19, 2022
UPDATE: Rapsheet confirms that this was a high ankle sprain for Doubs. Pass catchers typically miss 3 weeks with these injuries but it can extend up to 5 weeks. Doubs appears to suffer high ankle on video and is on crutches/in boot post-game. He'll likely miss some time based purely on observation.
Projected Return Date: November 26, 2022 - December 10, 2022
Tannehill officially OUT.
Projected Return Date: November 12, 2022 - November 12, 2022
Robinson pop up on injury report with a knee issue that’s chronic at this point. He’s questionable. Fire up Michael Carter.
Hubbard is OUT in Week 9.
Projected Return Date: November 5, 2022 - November 19, 2022
Updated: Henry missed practice on Thursday but is now listed with "rest/not injury related". He should be fine moving forward but definitely keep a close eye on Big Dogg's health. There's no telling which foot this is but it's safe to assume it's the same one from 2021. Don't panic. After carrying the ball over 30 times for 200+ yards your foot would probably hurt too. However, continue to monitor him for him now.
The Saints say Thomas' toe "didn't respond the way they'd hoped". At this point Thomas is droppable for teams that are desperate and need points. They do no expect him to play again this year.
Harbaugh: Bateman to have season-ending surgery.
Update: Lazard was LP in practice. If he plays in Week 9 he'll be highly volatile until he can prove the shoulder isn't a continued issue. Allen Lazard had a very similar mechanism of injury to his shoulder as Dalvin Cook had earlier this year. It looks like he subluxed his shoulder. It was a low energy injury so there’s a chance Lazard is back as quickly as Week 8. Realistically though the data points to a 2-3 week absence. He does have a history of a rotator cuff injury which could contribute to this injury.
Projected Return Date: October 29, 2022 - November 12, 2022
According to the Texans, Nico Collins "isn't dealing with a season-ending injury." Data shows this could be a 1-3 week absence for Collins.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Patterson was designated to return to practice. He has a chance to play in Week 9
Projected Return Date: November 5, 2022 - November 12, 2022
On video it appears Irv Smith plants his foot and friendly fire dives into his ankle forcing it to crash inward (eversion). If his foot was totally planted and if there was more dorsiflexion he could be looking at a high ankle sprain. He’s scheduled for an MRI today. Update: Jeremy Fowler confirms Smith has a high ankle sprain. Based on averages for pass catchers Smith will miss between 2-4 weeks with an average of 21 missed days. Update: Smith is expected to miss 8-10 weeks according to Adam Schefter
Projected Return Date: December 24, 2022 - January 7, 2023
Schefter reports that Metcalf will play in Week 8. As stated before this is primarily a pain tolerance injury so although he’ll play, Metcalf managers in more shallow leagues should tread lightly. He’s untouchable in cash until he can play through a whole game without limitations.
Projected Return Date: October 29, 2022 - October 29, 2022
Rapsheet: Thomas will play in Week 8. He’s highly volatile.
Projected Return Date: November 5, 2022 - November 19, 2022
Rapsheet yeeets that Adams will play. He’s a must start.
Rapsheet reports that Amon-Ra St. Brown has cleared concussion protocol. He will play.
Projected Return Date: October 29, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Mike Evans got his feet tangled up at the start of the 4th quarter in Week 8 and didn’t see a target again. This shouldn't follow him through Week 8 but it's worth noting he didn’t practice Monday.
Projected Return Date: October 26, 2022 - October 26, 2022
There's no telling what's going on with Schultz' PCL sprain but he practiced in full all week again. The fact that two seemingly innocuous events (contact with a defender in Week 5 and a walk thru before Week 6) could set him back so easily, he'll need to prove he's healthy before being in lineups.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Dobbins is droppable in most leagues at this point given he'll be down 4-6 weeks at this point. Gus Edwards is a RB to target.
Projected Return Date: November 19, 2022 - December 3, 2022
Mike Reiss tweets that Max Jones will be available Monday night “after clearing some hurdles at practice”. If the hurdles involve literally and physically clearing hurdles, this isn’t a guarantee to happen. Jones’ already limited mobility and still healing ankle will make him a highly volatile MNF streamer. There are better options in his first few weeks back.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - October 29, 2022
McDaniel sure has taken us on an emotional roller coaster. Despite McDaniel saying Waddle "could miss 1-2 games" in his Sunday presser, Waddle turned around and practiced on Wednesday. A limited practice doesn't predict availability for Week 7 but it is encouraging. This one is a situation to monitor but regardless video analysis and the fact he is banged up still places him as highly volatility even if he plays.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Benjamin has been limited this week. There's no telling how severe this injury is but in a week with so many byes, he's probably the best option for many people to flex.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Brandon Staley says that Kelley will be out 2-4 weeks.
Projected Return Date: November 5, 2022 - November 19, 2022
Dak is expected to play in Week 7. Don't expect a ceiling game from a passing perspective for at least another few weeks but he's a great trade candidate.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Ian Rapoport confirms this will be a 4-6 week absence for Wentz.
Projected Return Date: November 12, 2022 - November 26, 2022
Lamb didn't practice Friday and is questionable for Week 6. Last week Dallas sat Lamb on Thursday and he was limited on Friday with "groin" claiming it was load management. This week Lamb sat on Friday with "hip" which is likely the same issue. From Weeks 2-4 Lamb ran a route on 94% of routes with an 11.6 aDOT. Then in Week 5 he ran a route on 100% of his snaps with a 7.6 aDOT. So he got no rest while he was on the field in addition to facing more physical stress against the Rams defense. This could once again flag his GPS at the end of a work week and lead Dallas to remain cautious with him. This is all to say Lamb should be good to go but this is something to monitor.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022
Julio doubtful for Week 6. This injury is far from resolved.
Projected Return Date: October 29, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Freiermuth has officially been ruled OUT in Week 6.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - November 5, 2022
Brate practiced all week and could return in Week 6.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Jordan OUT in Week 6.
Projected Return Date: October 22, 2022 - November 5, 2022
The running back practiced in full all week and could make his debut this week. He's a bench stash
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Hines was a full participant in practice Friday but ensure he clears the protocol if you need him this week.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Olave practices in full on Friday but is not not a lock for Week 6 as we saw with Isaiah McKenzie last week. He'll need to be cleared before Sunday morning to play.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Winston OUT in Week 6.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 22, 2022
McKenzie officially clears concussion protocol
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022
Bridgewater OUT for Week 6
Ian Rapoport tweeted that Rashaad Penny will likely need surgery for a fractured tibia. This will more than likely end Penny's season. Depending on severity these injuries will take at least 3-4 months to recovery from.
Projected Return Date: December 31, 2022
According to Adam Schefter Montgomery is expected to play “barring pregame setback”. Don’t expect a ceiling game but Montgomery is a low-moderate volatility play.
Projected Return Date: October 12, 2022 - October 22, 2022
Schefter tweeted that Kamara should en active in Week 5. It's unlikely to be a high-usage day to prevent worsening of the painful condition.
Hill has yet to miss a non Week 17/18 game in his career due to soft tissue injuries. He's always played through and averaged 7 catches/10 targets/61 yards/1TD. You can't fade him and he'll likely be active. He'll be minimally-moderately volatile.
Projected Return Date: October 8, 2022
Jones was limited in mobility last week after the eversion sprain but is now off the injury report. He's moderately volatile until we see his mobility is fully back.
Projected Return Date: October 8, 2022
Chark didn't practice two 2/3 days this week and is unlikely to play in Week 5.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - October 29, 2022
I mean, come on. What do you think he'll say in the morning? Robinson will be active but it's worth waiting a week to see his role.
Projected Return Date: October 8, 2022
Knox officially ruled OUT for Week 5.
Meyers officially OUT in Week 4.
Gallup active but not startable At just 7 months and 2 weeks from ACL surgery, he will apparently give it a go. He’s highly volatile and not playable. For context, Chris Godwin was 8 months in Week 1 when trying to play. They are of course totally different situations but 9 months remains the gold standard for most humans. Even these guys. Lastly, it’s possible (probable) Gallup is on a snap count for the next month.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022 - November 16, 2022
Davis is active but highly volatile.
Schefter reports that Godwin will test his hamstring pregame but that Tampa is optimistic he'll play. All the same reasons that made Godwin volatile in Week 1 are still present today albeit to a lesser degree. He's a risky/high upside WR3 until we see that hamstring hold up.
Projected Return Date: October 1, 2022 - October 8, 2022
Cook was a full participant in Friday's practice and seems on track to play. Despite the sling, he's highly volatile due to recurrence risk.
Projected Return Date: October 1, 2022 - October 8, 2022
The expectation out of New York is that Wilson will make his season debut in Week 4.
Projected Return Date: October 1, 2022
Mr. Insider Adam Schefter himself was hyping up Williams prior to his Week 1. That has to mean something in a backfield that's seen legitimate volume distribution. There might be plans for Williams to be used in the passing games making him a worthwhile stash in deeper formats.
Projected Return Date: October 15, 2022
Herbert is starting today per Adam Schefter. This is still a highly volatile situation.
Gage is still struggling with a camp hamstring strain and was downgraded to DNP Friday. He's unlikely to play and highly volatile if he does.
Hockenson is dealing with a hip issue that's new for him. He was limited all week but it's impossible to bench a TE unless it's clear they really can't/won't go.
Pittman was FP on Friday which is a great sign. Quad injuries can be less tricky than hamstring injuries. He's a must-start in every format.
Kittle wll play in Week 3 as he's off the injury report. Kittle remains minimally volatile but should not be restricted.
Lance suffered a gruesome right lower leg injury that Schefter and the broadcast are calling an ankle injury. Schefter also reports the ankle will cost Lance the 2022 season which was expected. The hope is Lance rehabs well and can bounce back for 2023.
Joel Erickson reports that Pierce developed symptoms “after the game”. There’s no telling when that was between then and now and so it makes his availability even more questionable. Conservatively plan on no Pierce this week but monitor Injury Insights.
Per Field Yates the Patriots have placed Ty Montgomery on the injured reserve. This means he'll be required to miss at least the next four games.
Schefter confirmed: Drake London will play. This is unlikely to be a ceiling game for the rookie as he works his way back from an unspecified knee injury.
Tonyan, according to coach Matt LaFleur, will play in Week 1. He’s moderately to highly volatile but in an offense with Allen Lazard might be worth the TD upside depending on your situation.
Van Jefferson Starts Week as DNP and at this point is unlikely to be active given this is his second surgery on the same knee this calendar year.
Akers returned to practice but this is something to keep an eye on as injury reports begin to surface next week.
Sanders returns to practice on Thursday. This is a good sign for his Week 1 availability although he'll still be moderately volatile.
Spiller is rehabbing an ankle sprain and could take 2-4 weeks to rehab. This matches up with the report he could miss Week 1.
Herbert was back to practice on Sunday.
Washington has a Jones fracture and reports are he'll be out 6-8 weeks. The soonest return is by Week One. Depending on the specific area that was fractured, this could actually go up to 10 weeks based on the research done on NFL athletes which places him back in early to mid October.
Metchie had surgery on December 10th. That means that in an ideal world his soonest return is September 10th. That's exactly 9 months on opening day. Depending on the extent of the damage and/or his overall progress in rehab this could be extended another 2-6 weeks.
Woods' exact return date is gray as there are no reports of the extent of damage or the surgery date. Playing it conservatively based on his injury date, he could be cleared by 9/1/22 at the earliest. Depending on the extent of the damage and/or his overall progress in rehab this could be extended another 2-6 weeks.
