Injury Report: Key Players Doubtful as Week 7 Approaches
ICARO Media Group
Injuries continue to take their toll on several NFL teams heading into Week 7, with key players listed as doubtful or dealing with significant setbacks. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable injuries impacting teams and fantasy lineups:
Chicago Bears' quarterback Justin Fields is facing an uphill battle as he has not been able to practice following a thumb dislocation suffered in last Sunday's loss. With his availability in doubt, undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent is expected to step into the starting role. Bagent's performance in relief of Fields in Week 6 was mixed, showing flashes of brilliance with a big-time throw to D.J. Moore but also making two turnover-worthy plays.
San Francisco 49ers' star running back Christian McCaffrey left last Sunday's game with an oblique/rib injury and did not return. While there is optimism that he could return for Monday night's game, it is likely that he will be on limited snaps. This opens up an opportunity for Jordan Mason to make an impact, especially in deeper leagues.
Buffalo Bills' quarterback Josh Allen suffered a shoulder sprain in their win on Sunday night. While Allen was limited in Wednesday's practice, his immediate availability is not expected to be affected. However, concerns about the injury lingering remain. As long as it doesn't hinder his performance on the field, it shouldn't be a long-term issue for the talented quarterback.
Los Angeles Rams' running back Kyren Williams, who has been one of the season's surprises, is expected to miss multiple weeks with an ankle injury. With his backup, Ronnie Rivers, also on injured reserve due to a PCL injury, the Rams are left with rookie Zach Evans, Myles Gaskin, elevated Royce Freeman, and the returning Darrell Henderson as options for the backfield. Henderson's familiarity with the offense may give him an edge for high-leverage snaps.
Las Vegas Raiders' quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who left at halftime of their win over New England, has been ruled out for this week's game. The team will rely on Brian Hoyer or Aidan O'Connell as his replacement. Against a Bears defense that has struggled this season, fantasy managers can still find solace in starting Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers.
Tennessee Titans' quarterback Ryan Tannehill suffered an ankle injury during their loss in London. With the Titans on a bye this week, they have an extra week to consider their options between Malik Willis and rookie Will Levis if Tannehill's injury lingers. The Titans offense has been lackluster this season, making their pass catchers a streaming or matchup-based option.
The Detroit Lions find themselves dealing with multiple injuries in their backfield. David Montgomery suffered a rib injury in Week 6, sidelining him for the rest of the game. Craig Reynolds, who replaced Montgomery, also appeared on the injury report with a hamstring issue. Jahmyr Gibbs, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury, is expected to return and handle the bulk of the running back work against the Baltimore Ravens.
New England Patriots' running back Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to play on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills after being limited in practice due to an ankle injury. Despite the struggles of the Patriots' offense this season, Stevenson remains in the RB2 territory if he takes the field.
Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver DeVonta Smith and tight end Dallas Goedert have both dealt with minor injuries this week. Smith returned to practice on Thursday after missing Wednesday's session, while Goedert was limited on both days. The anticipation is that both players will be available for their highly anticipated Sunday night matchup.
Cleveland Browns' wide receiver Amari Cooper is dealing with an ankle injury but has been listed as resting rather than being affected by the injury itself, offering hope for his availability in Week 7. Meanwhile, quarterback Deshaun Watson continues to rehabilitate his throwing shoulder and returned to practice on Thursday, giving him a chance to play on Sunday.
San Francisco 49ers' wide receiver Deebo Samuel suffered a shoulder injury and is considered day-to-day. Known to play through minor injuries, Samuel has a solid chance of taking the field on Monday night, but fantasy managers may want to consider other options at the WR3/FLEX positions if they have concerns.
As Week 7 approaches, the NFL landscape is marred by several impactful injuries. Fantasy managers and teams alike will be closely monitoring the statuses of key players, hoping for a swift recovery and a return to full strength.