Every year in the NFL, there are a wide array of injuries that impact various players. From rising stars like Marvin Jones (broken left foot, out six-to-ten weeks as of August 10) to key backups like David Wilson (placed on IR with a new neck injury, and likely retiring from the NFL) it is imperative for fantasy owners to be well-informed about the injuries/rehabilitations that players are working through here in 2014 so that injury risk can be assessed before creating a drafting strategy/rankings/projections for the upcoming season. Now that the teams are grinding through training camp and preseason games we have a much clearer picture of where players are in the rehabilitation of their pre-existing injuries - and, of course, many new injuries have been incurred now that the players are back on the field playing in game situations against other NFL teams. Find below the most recent information on injuries to fantasy-relevant offensive skill position players across the league after the first full week of preseason contests, current to August 12.
Quarterbacks
BAL: Joe Flacco appeared to be bothered by tightness in his back but did not miss any snaps during practice Saturday, July 26. After practice, offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak said Flacco is 'fine'. Flacco has practiced in camp and after a rocky start with several interceptions thrown has proceeded to smooth out his passing - he seems past the back issue as of the first week in August. He threw 4/5 for 52 yards passing in a cameo appearance during the first preseason game vs. San Francisco.
BUF: EJ Manuel suffered a sprained LCL in December and had surgery to repair the ligament in January. Manuel participated in late-April OTAs and is expected to be full-go for training camp. Manuel showed up to camp with an additional 10 pounds of muscle mass (up to 247) and is reportedly in peak physical condition for the start of training camp. He played almost a full quarter in the Hall of Fame game and looked to be moving around just fine on the field. Manuel threw 9/13 for 96 yards passing vs. Carolina in the second preseason contest for Buffalo.
CAR: On June 4, Panthers head coach head coach Ron Rivera said he believes QB Cam Newton (ankle) is on or ahead of schedule in his four-month recovery schedule. 'We feel pretty comfortable,' Rivera said. 'We feel he's headed in the right direction.' Newton underwent surgery to strengthen his left ankle ligaments in late March, and shed his walking boot in late May. On July 26, Newton said his ankle is not 100 percent at this point, but it is getting better each day. Newton has been throwing the ball well in camp according to local sources. Newton hasn't been allowed to scramble or run the read-option in training camp as a precaution to protect his surgically repaired ankle - he sat out of practice on Thursday, August 7..."The big thing is he's got to be able to protect himself," head coach Ron Rivera said. "If something breaks down or something wrong happens, he has to be able to [protect himself]. That's what we're really concerned about. The other thing, too, is if he takes a hit on it. That's the other thing we've got to make sure of, that it's structurally sound." The Panthers continued to shield Newton on Friday night - he was held out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Newton described the sensations in his ankle on Thursday, August 8 “It’ll hurt [sharply] for that little second but it’ll go away after 2-3 minutes. It’s a reminder that, hey, you better check yourself.”
CLE: Brian Hoyer underwent reconstructive knee surgery (ACL injury) on October 19, 2014. As of April 29, 2014 Hoyer was participating in voluntary OTAs with the Browns, wearing a brace on his repaired right knee. Reports on June 4 indicated that Hoyer likely will be limited during the team's June minicamp. Hoyer said he wanted to be on the field but understands why the team is being cautious with him. On July 26, Hoyer opened camp with a brace on his right knee, but he also took all of the first-team reps in that session. The early word out of Cleveland is that the Browns' coaching staff considers Hoyer their starting quarterback as of late July. Hoyer continues to wear a brace but is fully engaged in a camp battle with Johnny Manziel as of mid-August.
CLE: Johnny Manziel suffered a minor ribs injury during the first preseason game - however, he continues to practice and according to Coach Mike Pettine on August 12 Manziel and Brian Hoyer will both work with the starters in Cleveland's second preseason game against the Redskins. Manziel will reportedly start in the contest.
DAL: Five months removed from the second surgical procedure on his back over the last two years, Tony Romo is reportedly doing well in rehab. 'We feel good about Tony's health, first-hand, medically,' team owner Jerry Jones said on May 7, 2014. 'His back is everything that we want it to be at this time.' Romo was throwing the football around with authority at the early-May mini-camp, according to local sources. On May 27, Romo was reported to be right on schedule in his rehabilitation. As of July 24, Romo is expected to be a full participant in training camp: 'He has had no issues,' coach Jason Garrett said on the 24th. 'No obstacles holding him back.' Romo missed practice on Friday August 1, but it appears he was simply being rested - no setback due to the back is reported. Also, the team is holding Romo out of the preseason opener as a precautionary measure - he is expected to appear in the second preseason game on August 16. Stay tuned to see if Romo actually appears in that game. Romo didn't practice on Tuesday, August 5. Romo did practice Saturday, August 9 after sitting out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Romo is expected to make an appearance vs. Baltimore on Saturday, August 16 - stay tuned to see how he looks in preseason action.
MIA: Pat Devlin sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a hamstring injury of unspecified severity - he's missed several sessions due to the injury.
MIA: Matt Moore sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a sore shoulder on his throwing arm.
NO: Drew Brees sat out Saturday's scrimmage because he has a strained left oblique, head coach Sean Payton explained at his post-scrimmage news conference. Payton said that Brees is "day to day" and that the team would monitor the injury. Brees did not practice on Monday, August 4. Brees was wearing pads but didn't practice much Tuesday, August 12, as the team eases him back onto the field.
NYG: Eli Manning underwent arthroscopic surgery on his ankle in mid-April. He is said to be progressing well in his rehab, but won't practice until training camp to give the ankle time to heal. Manning said on May 28 that he feels like he can do all things in practice, but will be cautious in trying not to overdo anything as he recovers from ankle surgery. 'The last few weeks, I've been doing most things from a practice standpoint,' Manning said. 'We're still being smart about things and not trying to overdo it, but definitely, football activities, I feel like I can do them all full.' In camp the Giants are reportedly focusing on having Manning get rid of the ball more quickly under new OC Ben McAdoo. Manning played well into the first quarter of the Hall of Fame game - he did fumble in the contest but appeared to be moving around on the ankle with no issues. He played four series in the second preseason contest for the Giants, but the team was working on the running game mostly - Maning went 0/2 passing during his time on the field.
STL: Sam Bradford suffered a torn ACL/reconstructive surgery midway through the 2013 season - he is reportedly on track to start throwing the football in June, though he won't fully participate in practice sessions until training camp. Bradford participated in practice Friday June 6. Bradford reportedly looked sharp during seven-on-seven drills and also took part in 11-on-11 drills. Bradford is full-go for training camp: 'Sam is in great shape,' head coach Jeff Fisher said on July 25. 'He’s ready to go. We don’t have (reservations) — right now as we speak, as camp starts — he’s full-go. If we need to back him down here and there, we’ll back him down.' The team is going to hold Bradford out of the first preseason game as a precautionary measure, but he is expected to play in the August 16 contest. Stay tuned to see if Bradford does indeed make it onto the field on August 16. Some reports out of camp indicate that the knee doesn't look 100% healed yet. On August 9 the Rams reiterated that Bradford will appear in the second preseason game August 16.
STL: Earlier during the offseason (date unspecified) Shaun Hill had a relatively minor surgical procedure on his foot to clear up a nagging injury. He is expected to be ready for training camp. He'll start the first preseason game while Bradford sits out. Hill did well in the first preseason game with 5/7 for 84 yards passing, two TDs and zero interceptions thrown.
TEN: Jake Locker underwent Lisfranc (foot) surgery in mid-November, 2013 - he is expected to be a full participant in OTA's and training camp, according to head coach Ken Whisenhunt on May 1, 2014. Locker said he was good moving around in practice Tuesday, May 27. Locker participated in all 10 of the team's OTAs this spring - the Titans are working on keeping Locker in the pocket more to minimize his chances of injury. Locker should be a full participant in training camp. He reported to camp five pounds lighter and has reportedly looked solid as a passer during the first week of camp. He had a brief cameo in the first preseason game going 1/2 for five yards passing.
WAS: As of April 17, 2014, reports out of Washington indicate that Robert Griffin III III is now fully healed from the knee injury/reconstructive surgery that hampered his 2013 season. Griffin has shed his knee brace and reportedly looks 'amazing' running on the field. A report on June 4 indicated that Griffin looks effortless in his dropbacks and throwing mechanics during organized team activities now that he isn't impeded by his knee brace. Reports on June 5 are that Griffin said the players have done a good job picking up the new offensive system but need more time to master the offense. 'I think it is coming together nicely. The quarterback room is doing really well and we’re ahead on a lot of things. But that’s where we’re supposed to be. We’ve got to have that mastery of the offense. But coming out here to the field... doing some talking at the line, getting some things under control and getting the looks that we need to be in, it’s been good,' On July 24, Washington's coaching staff indicated that Griffin would have very few designed runs during the 2014 season. Griffin has been up and down as a passer during the first week of camp, but he is fully participating. Griffin pitched 2/4 for nine yards passing during a brief appearance in the first preseason game.
WAS: Kirk Cousins had LASIK eye surgery in mid-February, in a bid to improve his passing acumen by improving his vision. Cousins threw 9/13 for 103 yards, one TD and zero interceptions during his time on the field - he did well.
Running Backs
ATL: Steven Jackson suffered ANOTHER hamstring injury in practice on Monday, July 28 - this time it is to his other (left) hamstring. The team is saying he'll be ready for week one of regular season, but we all remember how Jackson's last soft tissue injury worked out...stay tuned to Footballguys.com's training camp reports for updates on Jackson's status.
BAL: Ray Rice was hampered by hip and thigh injuries throughout the 2013 season. Though he is reportedly in great condition as of April 2014, Rice will serve a two-game suspension to open the regular season. Reports out of training camp in late July indicated that Rice is in top condition as of the start of training camp. Rice has slimmed down from nearly 225 pounds all the way to 207. Rice is entrenched as the Ravens starter after one week of camp and looks improved over last season. He posted 3/17/0 rushing in the first preseason game (5.7 yards per carry).
BAL: Bernard Pierce underwent shoulder surgery in January of 2014 - he is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, and was reported to be on pace in his rehab as of March 29, 2014. On May 29, reports indicated that Pierce may be a little ahead of schedule in his recovery from shoulder surgery. Pierce was able to do some light work during organized team activities Thursday, May 29. As of July 25, Pierce is looking good in training camp: 'I'm very confident in Bernard. I've always liked Bernard,' said coach John Harbaugh. 'He's a heck of a player. He's worked very hard, he’s 217 pounds, [and] he's in the best shape of his life. He looked good out here the last couple of days.' Pierce posted 10/37/1 rushing in the first preseason game.
BUF: Fred Jackson played through broken ribs and a sprained knee to appear in all 16 games for the Bills last season. He is a tough competitor, but is 33 years old entering the 2014 season. During May practices Jackson and C.J. Spiller were both on the field in two-running-back sets - Jackson should still see a significant share of the touches in Buffalo during 2014. Jackson has appeared in both preseason games for Buffalo, with 5/10/0 rushing and 1/-3/0 receiving at Carolina last week.
BUF: C.J. Spiller (ankle) said on May 30, 2014 that he felt great while taking part in organized team activities the final week of May. Spiller wasn't the same after battling through an ankle injury for most of last season. 'I don’t feel nothing, I feel great,' said Spiller. 'This is the best I’ve felt since 2012 when I had that great year. The ankle feels wonderful. I just have to keep doing what I need to do to stay healthy this whole season and try to go out there and make plays.'Spiller is reportedly healthy and has appeared in the team's preseason games - he posted 3/22/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Carolina last week.
Ex-CAR now-NE: Tyler Gaffney will undergo surgery to repair the torn lateral meniscus in his left knee and will miss the rest of the season according to reports on July 26, 2014.
CAR: Jonathan Stewart missed 10 games last season due to ankle and knee problems - he is reportedly engaging in a yoga/stretching regimen to hopefully improve his durability during 2014. Unfortunately, Stewart will miss two-to-four weeks of training camp due to a hamstring injury incurred early in training camp. He is expected to miss at least the first preseason game. He looked good running straight ahead on a side field Thursday, August 7. Stewart worked out before Friday’s preseason game and is expected to be evaluated again Sunday. Stewart was held out of the game on Friday, August 8, as expected. Stewart did practice on Sunday, August 10 marking his first practice in training camp.
CLE: Dion Lewis fractured his left fibula in mid-August last year, and underwent corrective surgery. Lewis was placed on IR and missed 2013 - he was present and participating in the first day of the Browns' OTA's on April 30, 2014. However, Lewis missed all of June's minicamp due to an unspecified injury - he didn't do well in the first preseason game, with 3/6/0 rushing and a fumble lost.
DEN: Montee Ball is out of training camp due to an emergency appendectomy - he said on August 8 that he feels well since the procedure (he's lost five pounds, though), but is unsure when he'll be healed enough to return to the team/practices. "Right now I am getting healthy and strengthening my core, just listening to my body. Just taking it day-by-day, step-by-step," Ball said. "When you see me back in pads, you will know I am ready."
DET: As of May 7, 2014, Joique Bell is rehabbing an unspecified left knee injury (head coach Jim Caldwell refused comment) - Bell posted an Instagram photo of his knee wrapped up and crutches at his side. On May 29, Bell said he should be ready for training camp in late July. Bell was cleared to run full speed on July 8, and is expected to fully participate in training camp. He reportedly looked good cutting and accelerating with ease during team portions of practice Wednesday, July 30. He had one carry for 11 yards vs. Cleveland in the first preeason game.
HOU: Arian Foster underwent back surgery in November of 2013, missing the final eight games of the season. He was medically cleared by the team's doctors March 16, 2014 and participated in May OTAs with the team. Foster appears on track to fully participate in training camp/regular season. He is expected to be a three-down back under head coach Bill O'Brien. However, Foster was sidelined on July 29 due to a 'minor' hamstring injury: 'He's dealing with something,' coach Bill O’Brien said. 'He'll be fine. He'll be back. It's a minor deal. You know, it's a long season. He'll be out there.' As of Tuesday, August 12 Foster has continued to not make it onto the practice field. Coach O'Brien indicated he expects Foster on the field sometime later in the week - this is becoming a drawn-out rehabilitation, folks.
IND: Vick Ballard tore his right ACL the Thursday prior to Week 2 games during 2013 - as of May 5, 2014 he's said to be close to 100% recovered from the injury. However, on Friday, July 24 Ballard tore his Achilles tendon and is now done for the season (again).
IND: Ahmad Bradshaw went on the IR October 8, 2013 due to his injured neck, and subsequently had corrective surgery for the injury. Bradshaw also deals with a chronic foot injury - he was re-signed by the Colts in free agency (March 11, 2014). As of April 24, 2014 Bradshaw reported that his neck 'feels great' but it isn't back to 100% healthy yet. Bradshaw expects to be ready for training camp. Bradshaw was on the field for organized team activities Wednesday, June 4, but he was wearing a no contact jersey. As of July 24 Bradshaw was cleared for resuming full practices during training camp. He didn't appear in the first preseason game, although a report on August 11 indicated that he'll get a little work during either the second or third preseason contest. The Colts are being cautious with their veteran backup during the exhibition season.
IND: As of July 26 and 27 Trent Richardson is sitting out of training camp due to a hamstring injury - he is considered day to day with the tweaked hamstring. Soft tissue injuries can be tricky to rehabilitate. However, Richardson is apparently much more comfortable in the system during camp, and that is making a big difference. Mike Wells’ assessment is that Richardson “has gone from thinking too much after taking the handoff to running off his natural instincts and with explosion”. Richardson had 5/13/0 rushing during the preseason opener at the Jets.
JAX: Toby Gerhart (hip injury, missed first preseason game) said he hopes to be able to play in the second preseason game. He said on August 9 that he has been taking part in a running program and has not had any issues. Gerhart (hip) is the 'lead dog' in the ground game, according to offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch on August 12. He is expected to play in the second preseason game.
MIA: Knowshon Moreno suffered a back injury in the Super Bowl and missed most of the second half, but is expected to be fine for OTAs. However, as of June 23, 2014 Moreno had an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee - he was placed on the active/PUP list as of Thursday, July 24 and is missing the start of training camp while he rehabs the knee. Reports out of Miami also indicate that Moreno's weight is an issue heading into training camp. On August 1, Moreno indicated he is unsure if he'll appear during the preseason: "I don't know. I don't know. I really don't even know. I just want to take each day one at a time. They have a schedule for me and they're just going to tell me every day what I have to do, and I just go out there and do it."
MIA: Daniel Thomas missed the first preseason game on August 8 due to a sore hamstring.
MIA: Damien Williams was carted off the field with an undisclosed injury late in the game on Friday, August 7 - he had a walking boot on his foot after the game and was scheduled for an MRI over the weekend.
NE: Shane Vereen said on May 2, 2014 that his 2013 wrist fracture still isn't fully healed. 'It’s not going to feel great tomorrow, it's not going to feel awful,' he said. 'It won’t be 100 percent probably for a while, but it's good enough and I'm working on strengthening it and getting it back.' Vereen also battled groin woes during the playoffs last January. As of late May Vereen was considered the top back in the Patriots' committee - we'll see how the wrist holds up during training camp. He was 1/7/0 rushing during a cameo appearance in the first preseason game at Washington.
NO: Pierre Thomas sat out of the first preseason game due to an unspecified injury. Head coach Sean Payton refused to comment after the game on why Thomas sat out the contest, reiterating that he doesn't address injuries during preseason.
NYG: Peyton Hillis suffered an ankle/foot sprain on Tuesday, August 5 and has been missing practice since. Local reports indicate the injury will keep Hillis out for an indefinite period of time - he didn't log a carry in the first preseason game.
Ex-NYG: As of June 4, 2014, David Wilson (neck surgery/spinal disk fusion) did not gain medical clearance after a MRI and exam. He'll reportedly undergo another test/exam just before training camp. Wilson was cleared for all phases of practice on July 21 and opened training camp as the team's #2 running back on July 23. Unfortunately, Wilson suffered a neck injury/burner in practice on Tuesday, July 29 - he was advised by medical personnel to end his NFL career after the incident on July 29. He was placed on IR August 4 and has announced that he is leaving the game.
NYJ: Chris Ivory suffered a cracked rib and a hip pointer in the regular-season finale last December. He is expected to be ready for OTAs and training camp this year. On Thursday, July 24 Ivory 'tweaked' his hamstring but he returned to practice on July 25 and it appears the hamsting is not seriously injured. Ivory suffered a ribs injury in the first preseason game on August 7, and on August 10 he said that he felt "some movement" of his ribs after the injury. Ivory didn't practice on Saturday, August 9 due to the injury. Ivory is likely to play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 16, according to comments made by head coach Rex Ryan on August 12.
NYJ: Chris Johnson had late-January arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus in his knee (torn in week three of the 2013 season), and there have been some reports that the knee is developing arthritis. However, the Jets signed him to a two-year, $8 million deal with a $3 million signing bonus in April, so their concerns over the knee can't be too dire. He was cleared for training camp on July 23 and was reportedly 'flying' during his conditioning run. Johnson said he was pleased with how his surgically repaired knee felt during his first full contact practice Saturday, August 2. He posted 4/2/1 rushing and 2/16/0 receiving during the first preseason game.
PHI: RB Chris Polk sat out of training camp on Sunday, August 3 due to a sore hamstring. The severity of the injury wasn't indicated at that time. Polk missed the Eagles' preseason opener with the hamstring strain, and hadn't resumed practicing as of August 11.
PIT: Le'Veon Bell (tweaked hamstring) didn't finish practice Sunday, July 27, due to a tight hamstring. However, he was soon back to action: Bell participated in practice Thursday, July 31. He led the team in rushing during the first preseason game, with 3/18/0 and added 1/6/0 receiving.
SD: Ryan Mathews ended last season on a sour note, tweaking a previously injured ankle in the Chargers' Wild Card round victory and then being mostly unavailable during the Divisional round of the playoffs. He is expected to be fine for the start of training camp this year. However, Mathews (elbow, arm) was practicing with his elbow and upper arm wrapped Monday, June 2. No details about the severity of the injury were offered, but as he was on the field practicing the issue must have been relatively minor. Reports during July indicate that Mathews is going to be the lead back in an attack that emphasizes the running game. He posted 5/19/0 rushing vs Dallas in the first preseason game.
SEA: Christine Michael left practice early Sunday, July 27, after dinging his right shoulder. Head coach Pete Carroll said Michael should be able to return Tuesday, July 29. He played in the first preseason game vs. Denver (7/16/1 rushing with 3/12/0 receiving), and was listed as the third running back on a depth chart released by the team August 12.
SEA: Robert Turbin had an arthroscopic procedure on his knee during the offseasn, but as of June 9, 2014 he was reportedly fully recovered. Turbin got lots of reps initially in training camp due to Marshawn Lynch's brief holdout, and put up 4/5/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Denver in the first preseason contest.
SF: Kendall Hunter tore his right ACL during practice on Friday, July 24 and is done for the season.
SF: LaMichael James (elbow injury) likely will miss the entire preseason but should be ready for the start of the regular season.
SF: Marcus Lattimore has conceded (May 5, 2014) that he still has not recovered his top form physically or mentally after the catastrophic knee injury (torn right ACL, LCL, and PCL) that ended his college career. He has also torn the ACL in his left knee. On May 22 the 49ers indicated that Lattimore would 'somewhat' participate in rookie minicamp. Lattimore has sat out of the first three training camp session, though GM Trent Baalke is on record (July 27) that Lattimore has not suffered a setback. '"He's coming off, as we all know, a horrific injury.' Baalke said on Saturday, July 27.
TB: Mike James may be on the roster bubble according to reports out of Tampa Bay in June - he is recovering from an ankle injury (week 10, 2013) and James missed chunks of OTAs as he rehabilitated his ankle. He posted 3/12/0 rushing at Jacksonville during the first preseason game.
TB: As of March 31, 2014 Doug Martin was medically cleared to resume his football career after suffering a labrum tear in his shoulder Week 7 of the 2013 season. The injury appears to be a thing of the past as of May 2014. He posted 3/6/0 rushing during a cameo during the first preseason game at Jacksonville.
TEN: Shonn Greene has had two right knee surgeries over the past 12 months - he complained of right knee soreness and swelling during the Titans' early-May minicamp and promptly went under the knife for an arthroscopic knee surgery (reported on May 11). Greene did not participate in organized team activities Monday, June 2. Greene was cleared for training camp on July 25, but reports on July 28 indicated that the Titans want him to lose 5-10 pounds during training camp. He posted 4/20/1 rushing vs. Green Bay in the first preseason game.
WAS: Roy Helu (knee injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after posting 5/14/0 rushing and 2/23/0 receiving on August 7 at Washington.
WAS: Evan Royster (hamstring injury) did not participate in practice Sunday, July 27. He played in the first preseason game with 7/23/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving.
WAS: Chris Thompson (ankle injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after running for 4/5/0 and grabbing 2/12/0 receiving at Washington on August 7.
Wide Receivers
ARI: John Brown (hamstring strain) missed practice Saturday, August 2. He was also forced out of the session on August 5, and was spotted with the same leg/hamstring wrapped after practice. Brown caught five of his team-high 10 targets for 87 yards against the Texans Saturday night August 9, and was compared favorably to Anquan Boldin by the Cardinals' GM Steve Keim on August 12.
ATL: Julio Jones broke his foot after just five games last season, but his rehabilitation is progressing well. As of April 22, 2014 Jones is expected to be limited during OTAs but ready to participate in full during training camp. On May 18, head coach Mike Smith confirmed that Jones would be limited during OTAs and mini-camp with the intention that he be ready to go in training camp. Smith also indicated that Jones is ahead of schedule on the rehab of his foot. Jones was able to make some cuts on the field during organized team activities Wednesday, June 4. On July 23, coach Smith indicated that while Jones will participate in practices he'll be limited during the first part of training camp. 'Our number one goal is to make sure that we've got everybody as healthy as we possibly can be, but we know that we have to get these guys some work together and reps. Julio will be out there participating in practice right from the start.' Jones has practiced for a limited amount of time during the first week of training camp as the team eases him back onto the field. He's been practicing on a one-day-on, one-day-off schedule - Jones didn't appear in the first preseason game. Jones was rested Tuesday, August 12 as part of his normal schedule this preseason.
BUF: Kevin Elliott was suffering from concussion-like symptoms due to a blow suffered in practice on Sunday, July 27. He didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game.
BUF: Marquise Goodwin was cleared to practice on August 5 after suffering a hamstring strain on August 1. He hauled in 1/18/0 receiving in the first preseason game.
BUF: Robert Woods participated in OTAs during late May after having ankle surgery during February, 2014. He opened training camp listed as one of the starting wide receivers across from Sammy Watkins - he is apparently past the ankle issue. Woods appeared in the Hall of Fame game, but didn't start. He saw eight targets for 4/31/0 in the second preseason game at Carolina.
CAR: Kelvin Benjamin underwent a precautionary MRI on Monday, July 28 after bumping knees with a teammate on July 27. 'We want to be smart with it,' head coach Ron Rivera said. 'It could just be one of those things where if he had iced it right away and not finished (Sunday's) practice, maybe it would have been better... I'm optimistic that is what it's going to be.' The MRI revealed a bone bruise in his left knee - Benjamin is considered day-to-day due to the injury, but may miss a week or so. Benjamin has since returned to training camp, and caught 1/29/1 in the first preseason game Friday, August 8. He is past the bruised knee going into the second week of preseason games.
CAR: Tavarres King reportedly rebounded well from his hamstring strain incurred during the past week at camp to catch 4/50/0 during the Panthers' first preseason game on August 8.
Ex-CHI: Domenik Hixon was released by the Bears with an injury settlement on June 3 after tearing his right ACL for the third time on May 27, 2014. Hixon appears to be planning on retiring from the NFL after his most recent ACL injury.
CHI: Marquess Wilson (broken right collarbone) underwent surgery Tuesday, August 5, and is out indefinitely. He may go to IR or IR/designated to return, but either way he's out for a big chunk of the season.
CIN: Marvin Jones suffered an ankle injury on July 21 - he is said to be day-to-day due to the relatively-minor injury. However, as of early August (August 2) he hadn't participated in any of the training camp practices - shortly after coming off the active/NFI list Jones broke the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot during practice on Saturday, August 10. The team hopes to have him back by week five of the regular season, but Footballguys.com injury expert Dr. Jene Bramel feels that 8-10 weeks or even 10-12 weeks are more realistic time frames for recovery from this type of foot injury/surgery/rehabilitation (Jones had a screw inserted in the bone to help aid the recovery). The bottom line is that Jones is out for an indefinite but long period of time during the upcoming season due to this injury.
CLE: Miles Austin was (once again) plagued by hamstring woes during 2013, and largely ineffective for Dallas, who released him on March 11, 2014. The wide receiver-hungry Browns took a gamble and signed him to a deal on March 15. Austin participated in practice on Saturday, July 26. He has reportedly been impressive during training camp, and posted 1/13/0 at Detroit in the first preseason game.
CLE: Nate Burleson Burleson said on June 3 that he did not fracture his arm during an April minicamp and it was just a minor injury. He said the severity of the injury was exaggerated. Because there was no fracture, Burleson was able to run and lift weights with the cast on. Burleson participated in practice Saturday, July 26. He didn't catch a pass in the first preseason game.
DEN: Though rookie wide receiver Cody Latimer missed some spring sessions due to an injured foot, he's played well during the early part of training camp and is reportedly working at full-go as of July 24, 2014. He appeared in the first preseason game vs. Seattle with one target for zero receptions.
DET: Ryan Broyles tore his Achilles tendon in October of 2013, but was given a clean bill of health on April 9, 2014 - he has resumed football activities. Reports on June 4 indicated that Broyles has worked on the placement of his feet, knees and hips, and is learning movements and proper form in order to eliminate future injuries. Broyles has already come back from two ACL tears and says the Achilles rehabilitation has been easier than the ACL rehabs. Reports in early July indicated that Broyles has lost some of his acceleration/explosiveness after the litany of injuries. He played in the first preseason game and snagged 3/27/0.
DET: T.J. Jones is on the active/PUP list to open training camp due to a shoulder issue.
DET: Golden Tate opened training camp on the active/PUP list due to a sore shoulder dating back to OTAs. Tate is considered day-to-day and should join training camp shortly, although as of late July he is missing sessions. Tate appeared in the first preseason game and caught 1/14/0.
GB: Jared Abbrederis tore his right ACL on Thursday, July 31 and has been lost for the season.
GB: Jeff Janis missed the first seven practices of training camp due to a bout of shingles. However, Janis has made several big plays in training camp since returning from the illness. 'Jeff Janis has made a play every day he's been out there,' head coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday, August 12. 'He made another big play today. He looks good.'
HOU: Andre Johnson was forced out of practice on July 29 due to a strained hamstring. The severity of the strain isn't currently known. Johnson did not participate in practice Sunday, August 3. Johnson said he would like to play in the first preseason game but is not sure if he will. Johnson didn't play and hasn't practiced yet as of August 12.
IND: Reggie Wayne suffered a torn right ACL and meniscus damage in his knee on October 20, 2013. He is said to be recovering well and is reportedly ahead of schedule in rehabilitating the knee. On April 8 Wayne was said to be targeting the end of April to begin training/conditioning work - he appears to be on schedule for participating in the 2014 training camp. On July 23 Wayne was cleared for training camp - he'll likely be eased into training camp with lighter sessions at first. Stay tuned to see if Wayne suffers any setbacks once the pads go on. Wayne (knee) said on July 31 that he hasn't had any problems so far with his surgically repaired right knee. Wayne was held out of the first preseason game as a precautionary measure - the team is limiting his time in practices during training camp to help aid his recovery from knee surgery.
JAX: Jaguars WR Marqise Lee (right ankle injury) said on June 5 that he believes he could be ready to return to organized team activities late next week. He said the team doesn't want to rush him back and that he will be ready for training camp. Lee was in a walking boot due to the injury as of June 3. Lee also battled a jammed wrist during OTAs - he's been nicked up a lot during the first month of his pro career. On July 25, Jaguars DM Dave Caldwell stated that Lee could see action at slot receiver while Ace Sanders is out on his suspension. Lee didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game, only played 16 snaps, and had his effort level called out by head coach Gus Bradley on August 9.
JAX: Allen Robinson (hamstring injury dating back to spring OTAs, that was re-injured in training camp August 1) will likely miss the team's second preseason game against the Chicago Bears.
JAX: Cecil Shorts had a sports hernia surgery in December, 2013 - as of April 23, he expects to be 100% healed very soon. We'll see how quickly the team doctors clear him for football activities. Shorts left the team's practice Wednesday, June 4, due to a minor calf injury, but he was on the field participating which is a positive sign about his recovery from sports hernia surgery. Unfortunately, Shorts suffered a hamstring strain on Friday, July 24 and is out 'several' weeks while his soft-tissue injury heals. He should be able to come back by week one of regular season if he doesn't suffer a setback later in camp. Shorts said on August 9 that he is ahead of schedule in his rehab from a hamstring injury but does not have a clear timetable for his return. Shorts said has been able to do some running and is feeling good. He is not expected to play in the second preseason game against the Chicago Bears. Shorts caught a few passes Tuesday, August 12, but didn't run any routes.
MIA: Armon Binns tore his ACL and MCL in late July of 2013, and landed on IR for the season. He is reportedly (May 2, 2014) looking good in training sessions and appears to be on track to take part in training camp. He had one catch for six yards at Atlanta in the first preseason game.
MIA: Brandon Gibson suffered a torn left patellar tendon during late October, and was placed on I.R. October 29, 2013, one day after corrective surgery. He has reportedly (May 2, 2014) looked good in offseason conditioning sessions. However, on June 7 local reports indicated that Gibson (knee) has only participated in one of the organized team activities this offseason, because he wants to go slow with his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament - the left knee injury was evidently more serious than initially reported. However, since the start of training camp Gibson has been going full speed and reportedly looks fully healthy as of July 26. Gibson caught the only TD that Miami scored in the first preseason game, with two targets for 2/14/1 during the contest.
MIA: Brian Hartline suffered a torn PCL in the 2013 regular-season finale, but surgery wasn't necessary to repair the ligament - it healed naturally. Unfortunately, Hartline suffered an undisclosed injury on Saturday, August 2 and was forced to sit out the first preseason game on August 8 as a result - he hasn't practiced since the injury occurred.
MIA: Matt Hazel suffered a concussion during practice Thursday, July 31, and will miss several days of practice. He will not participate in the team's scrimmage Saturday, August 2. Hazel did play in the first preseason game August 8, with three targets for zero receptions.
MIA: Mike Wallace missed the weekend practices after being held out of practice on Thursday, July 31 due to a sore hamstring. He's expected to be back in sessions shortly, but soft tissue injuries can linger if they are not allowed to fully heal. Wallace returned to practice on Monday, August 4. However, he was unable to play in the preseason contest on August 8 due to the sore hamstring - it is becoming a nagging injury, apparently, and has been a problem for about two weeks as of August 8.
NE: Danny Amendola tore a tendon in his groin early in the 2013 regular season, and the injury was a nagging issue for him all season long. However, reports on May 8, 2014 indicated that he avoided a groin surgery and enters spring OTAs 100% recovered from the injury. Reports in June indicated that Amendola looked outstanding during OTAs - we'll see how he holds up once the pads go on and hitting starts in training camp. Amendola was reportedly looking well and playing well in a joint practice with Washington on August 6.
NE: On March 10, 2014 Aaron Dobson underwent surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot. The timetable for his recovery is said to be two-to-three months, which should put Dobson in good shape for training camp if all goes according to plan. However, Dobson started training camp on the PUP list (July 21), so he isn't ready to play yet.
NE: Jeremy Gallon, a seventh-round draft choice from Michigan, practiced sparingly in spring camps due to an undisclosed injury. He was officially placed on the active/PUP list on Monday July 21.
NE: Kenbrell Thompkins ended the playoffs on the inactive list due to a concussion - he should be fine for training camp, but once a player has suffered a concussion they are more susceptible to future brain traumas. He caught one pass for 11 yards at Washington during the first preseason game.
NO: On March 26, Saints' head coach Sean Payton stated that he doesn't expect Marques Colston's nagging foot injuries to go away in 2014, and indicated that Colston will be limited in practices most weeks. However, on July 4 Colston stated that he has no restrictions due to the foot and that he feels 'really good'. Time will tell if the foot flares up again during training camp/preseason. Colston snagged 2/10/0 receiving in the first preseason game.
NO: Saints' Kenny Stills (quadriceps injury) was not practicing Sunday, July 27 after suffering tightness in his quad on Friday, July 25. He missed the intrasquad scrimmage on August 2, and has missed all the sessions since last Friday, July 25. In his absence, Brandin Cooks has been shining in training camp - Stills missed the first preseason contest while Cooks garnered 5/55/1 receiving during the exhibition.
NYG: On July 27, Giants coach Tom Coughlin referred to first-round pick Odell Beckham's (hamstring injury dating back to OTAs) continued training camp absences as 'more than a little disappointing.' As of August 5 Beckham has still not been cleared to practice. Beckham returned to individual drills on August 11.
NYG: Victor Cruz had arthroscopic knee surgery in December of 2013 and sat out the last two games - as of April 28 he has declared himself 100% recovered from the procedure. Cruz is expected to practice as usual this spring/summer. Cruz is reportedly lining up all over the field early in training camp (July 26) and is apparently past the knee surgery. However, Cruz was seen limping following a collision in one-on-one drills at practice Tuesday, August 12 - it was unclear if the collision affected his recovering knee.
NYG: Rueben Randle (hamstring tweak) said his hamstring is feeling better and he practiced Thursday, July 31. He started in the Hall of Fame game but didn't get any passes to come his way. He saw three targets for 1/12/0 during the second preseason game vs. Pittsburgh.
NYJ: Eric Decker is dealing with a minor hamstring issue, according to head coach Rex Ryan on August 1. On August 4, he revealed that Decker is also dealing with a sore foot. He did appear in the first preseason game and caught both balls aimed at him (2/12/0).
NYJ: Clyde Gates was placed on I.R. in mid-October of 2013 due to a separated shoulder. His status for the upcoming 2014 season is cloudy due to his lack of impact in the passing game while with the Jets. Gates caught 2/17/0 in the first preseason game.
NYJ: Stephen Hill was placed on I.R. December 13, 2013 with a knee injury of unspecified severity. He reportedly avoided knee surgery and is expected to be ready for training camp. Hill has been up and down during training camp, according to reports on August 12 - Geno Smith admitted Hill has had "some drops," while coach Rex Ryan changed the subject to Hill's blocking when asked about his progress as a pass catcher. Reporter Rich Cimini considers Hill New York's No. 4 receiver behind Eric Decker, Jeremy Kerley and David Nelson.
OAK: James Jones suffered a shoulder sprain during mid-June and was expected to sit out until training camp due to the injury. He was listed as a backup receiver on the first team depth chart on August 4 - Jones needs to get to work to improve his position. He didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game at Minnesota.
OAK: Rod Streater suffered a concussion during practice on July 28 - he also had a previous concussion during 2013 preseason. Streater (concussion) participated in warmups and drills Wednesday, July 30, but he sat out team sessions. Streater suffered a concussion Monday, July 28, and has been cleared for contact as of Thursday, July 31. He didn't catch a ball during the team's first preseason game at Minnesota.
PHI: Riley Cooper missed the first week of training camp due to a foot injury - the team does expect him back on the field
'soon'. As of August 5 his foot was still in a boot and he hasn't practiced durin the first week of camp. He returned to practices on Sunday, August 10.
PHI: Jeremy Maclin tore his right ACL (the second time he's done so) during training camp last July and had successful reconstructive surgery on July 30, 2013. As of April 24, 2014 Maclin has indicated that his knee is fully recovered from the injury - he is expected to take part in training camp. On Junr 7, The Eagles' general manager Howie Roseman indicated that the team fully expect Jeremy Maclin (knee) to be ready to go for the start of the 2014 season. 'I think it depends on the player. We saw Adrian Peterson come back after six months, and did he win the MVP award after that? So I think it depends on the genetics. And all I know is what our doctors are telling us, and he’s doing a great job in his rehab. We fully expect him to be ready to go once the season starts.' On July 28, head coach Chip Kelly said Jeremy Maclin looks 'fantastic' so far. He'd been a star of training camp during the first week of practices. However, over the first weekend in August a problem with leg soreness cropped up - Maclin didn't take part in team drills Tuesday, Auguest 5, and it's the third time in four practices he's been limited. Maclin has soreness in his legs, and he said it has nothing to do with his knee injury from last year. Maclin had one catch for 15 yards during a cameo at Chicao in the first preseason game.
PIT: Justin Brown did not participate in practice Friday, August 1, because of a broken nose.
PIT: Darrius Heyward-Bey reportedly left practice Thursday, July 31, with concussion symptoms. He'll have to undergo the NFL-mandated concussion protocols before resuming football activities. On August 2 the team confirmed his concussion - he didn't appear in the first preseason game.
PIT: Markus Wheaton underwent minor offseason finger surgery (revealed on March 25). Wheaton suffered from two broken fingers during his rookie campaign last year and only caught six passes over 12 appearances. He caught one pass for 28 yards vs. the Giants in the preseason opener.
SD: Vincent Brown suffered a calf injury on Friday, July 25. Brown (calf) wore a protective boot Thursday, July 31, after sitting out the team's last five practices due to his injury. Brown has missed most of camp with the calf injury and reportedly won't play in San Diego's second preseason game. He's on the roster bubble as of mid-August.
SD: Malcom Floyd injured a disc in his neck during Week Two of the 2013 season and sat out the balance of the year on I.R. Though he has resumed light training activities as of March 2, 2014, there is no consensus on when or if Floyd will resume his football career. Floyd had the majority of passes go his way during organized team activities Tuesday, May 27, and it was his first practice since he suffered a serious neck injury in Week Two of last season. As of July 16, Floyd was reportedly MVP of OTAs and mini-camps. The neck issue seems to be a thing of the past as of late July. Floyd didn't catch a pass in the first preseason game.
SF: Michael Crabtree suffered an undisclosed (but believed to be leg-related/hamstring) injury on Wednesday, July 30 and didn't practice on Thursday, July 31. "Maybe a week, maybe two weeks," head coach Jim Harbaugh said Friday, August 31 regarding Crabtree's status, "and same with Brandon Lloyd." Crabtree has "...got something he's working through and we're going to get it 100 percent,". On August 2 the team confirmed that Crabtree is out for two weeks. On August 9 coach Harbaugh said that Crabtree (hamstring) should return to practice in the near future. He sat out the preseason opener.
SF: Chuck Jacobs tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee Thursday night, August 7, and will be out for the season, coach Jim Harbaugh announced between August 9 joint practices at the Baltimore Ravens' facility.
SF: Brandon Lloyd suffered an undisclosed (but believed to be leg-related) injury on Wednesday, July 30 and didn't practice on Thursday, July 31. "Maybe a week, maybe two weeks [out for Michael Crabtree]," head coach Jim Harbaugh said Friday, August 31, "and same with Brandon Lloyd." He sat out the preseason opener.
SF: 49ers Steve Johnson (hamstring) has been sidelined during early-June voluntary workouts due to a hamstring issue, but the injury is not believed to be serious. Reports on July 22 indicated that Johnson may be on the roster bubble due to his almost $4 million salary. He saw two targets for 1/6/0 receiving in the first preseason game at Baltimore.
STL: Tavon Austin missed the final three games of the 2013 season due to a high ankle sprain, but he is expected to be fine for the upcoming OTAs/training camp. On July 23 he admitted to having trouble absorbing the team's playbook during his rookie season - 'Everything looked like Spanish and sounded like Spanish to me.' - but he says he's up to speed in the system for the 2014 season. He saw three passes for 3/20/0 receiving in the first preseason game vs. New Orleans.
STL: On April 23, 2014 Chris Givens revealed that a nagging ankle injury dogged him for most of last season (though he did appear in all 16 games). Given saw one pass for zero receptions in the preseason opener.
STL: On May 12 the NFL suspended Stedman Bailey for four games for violating the performance-enhancing substances policy. He won't play until week six of the 2014 season.
STL: Kenny Britt battled knee problems throughout the 2013 season and only managed 11/96/0 receiving - he was also in the doghouse in Tennessee for multiple off-field issues. We'll see if he can heal up and play better/keep his nose clean in St. Louis. Britt started the preseason opener but didn't see a single target. He played much of the first half opposite Brian Quick and Stedman Bailey.
TB: Rookie Mike Evans suffered a hamstring pull in late-May OTAs. Head coach Lovie Smith indicated on May 27 that Evans was improving - he should be fine for training camp unless Evans suffers a setback. He noted on July 3 that he is working on losing seven-to-ten pounds and said: '... the workouts I've been doing, I'll be fine. I'll be ready.'. Evans was targeted twice at Jacksonville but didn't catch a pass in the preseason opener. As of August 11 the team had him practicing extensively on the inside of the offensive formation.
TB: Robert Herron's shoulder injury suffered Friday, August 8, against the Jacksonville Jaguars does not appear to be serious, according to head coach Lovie Smith on Saturday, August 9.
WAS: Pierre Garcon has missed time during the first week of training camp due to a hamstring injury of unspecified severity - the injury isn't considered serious but it's enough to keep him off the field. He didn't practice August 4 or 5, either. Garcon resumed practicing on Sunday, August 10.
WAS: Leonard Hankerson ended 2013 on IR due to torn left LCL and ACL knee ligaments - he had corrective surgery on November 21 and is expected to miss 7-9 months due to the injury. His availability for Week One of the 2014 regular season is up in the air. Hankerson started training camp on July 25 by being cleared to start running - he isn't practicing with the team and there is no clear timetable for him to resume full football activities. Hankerson will meet with Dr. James Andrews late in the week as of August 11, 2014 - he is widely expected to begin the season on the PUP list.
WAS: DeSean Jackson suffered a hamstring injury during early June OTAs and as of June 6, Redskins head coach Jay Gruden said he is unsure if Jackson will participate in practice during June 9-14. The team does not want to rush him back and make the hamstring injury worse. Jackson did practice and work with Robert Griffin III III during the first week of training camp, but he was rested on Saturday, August 2. Jackson returned to team drills Monday, August 11 after missing the first preseason game.
Tight Ends
ARI: Third-string tight end Troy Niklas (hand surgery) was cleared to participate in training camp on July 23rd. He broke his hand during OTAs, which set back Niklas' learning curve (he's a rookie and didn't get most of the spring reps).
BAL: On June 7, 2014 Dennis Pitta (hip injury during 2013) said he is feeling healthy but indicated he has things to work out before being 100 percent. 'I feel good. I feel really healthy. I feel 100 percent,' Pitta said. 'But there are still things that I work through. I would say I’m on my way to getting all the way back.' He had one catch for 14 yards in the preseason opener vs. San Francisco.
BUF: Scott Chandler reportedly looked uncomfortable during spring OTAs after having offseason knee surgery earlier this year. Also, Chandler suffered a
