Every year in the NFL, there are a wide array of injuries that impact various players. From starting quarterbacks like Sam Bradford (out for the season after a second ACL tear in his left knee) to star tight ends like Rob Gronkowski (reportedly ready to play in Week One, regular season - see below) 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 and selecting your lineups for the Week One regular season games. Now that the teams are finished 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 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 all of the preseason contests/cutdown day, current to September 1, 2014. The first official NFL Injury Report will be out Wednesday/Thursday this week, and all fantasy owners should also refer to this resource before setting their lineups for Week 1.
Quarterbacks
BUF: EJ Manuel suffered a sprained LCL in December and had surgery to repair the ligament in January. Manuel participated in late-April OTAs and is expected to be full-go for training camp. Manuel showed up to camp with an additional 10 pounds of muscle mass (up to 247) and is reportedly in peak physical condition for the start of training camp. He played almost a full quarter in the Hall of Fame game and looked to be moving around just fine on the field. Manuel threw 9/13 for 96 yards passing vs. Carolina in the second preseason contest for Buffalo. He threw 17/27 for 148 yards, zero TDs and one interception (with zero sacks taken) in the third preseason game vs. Pittsburgh. Manuel Posted 19/28 for 198 yards passing, one TD and one interception thrown, with four sacks taken for -17 yards vs. Tampa Bay on August 23. Manuel went 3/7 for 56 yards, zero TDs or interceptions thrown during a cameo appearance in the fourth preseason contest on August 28.
CAR: On June 4, Panthers head coach head coach Ron Rivera said he believes QB Cam Newton (ankle) is on or ahead of schedule in his four-month recovery schedule. 'We feel pretty comfortable,' Rivera said. 'We feel he's headed in the right direction.' Newton underwent surgery to strengthen his left ankle ligaments in late March, and shed his walking boot in late May. On July 26, Newton said his ankle is not 100 percent at this point, but it is getting better each day. Newton has been throwing the ball well in camp according to local sources. Newton hasn't been allowed to scramble or run the read-option in training camp as a precaution to protect his surgically repaired ankle - he sat out of practice on Thursday, August 7..."The big thing is he's got to be able to protect himself," head coach Ron Rivera said. "If something breaks down or something wrong happens, he has to be able to [protect himself]. That's what we're really concerned about. The other thing, too, is if he takes a hit on it. That's the other thing we've got to make sure of, that it's structurally sound." The Panthers continued to shield Newton on Friday night - he was held out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Newton described the sensations in his ankle on Thursday, August 8 “It’ll hurt [sharply] for that little second but it’ll go away after 2-3 minutes. It’s a reminder that, hey, you better check yourself.” Newton did play in the second preseason game, but he didn't do any running/scrambing, taking two sacks for -19 yards that he would have easily evaded in past years. He threw 4/9 yielding 65 yards passing, with zero TDs or interceptions. Newton acknowledged on August 15 that he still isn't 100% healthy - "The thing that keeps coming back up is, 'Keep treating it. Treat it when it feels good, treat it when it feels bad. Don’t be that guy that only treats it when it’s nagging. Try to stay ahead of the pain,'" Newton said. "That's what I've been doing, and it's been paying off." Unfortunately, Newton suffered a fractured rib in the third preseason game, and will therefore sit out the rest of preseason. The team is hopeful that he'll be able to play in week one of the regular season, but he is now rehabbing two separate issues as of the final week in August. On August 27 the team asserted that Newton would not be running a limited offense without the zone read in Week One, but they didn't update regarding Newton's recovery from the ribs injury while making that statement. Newton said on Wednesday, August 27, that he will be ready for the regular season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite fracturing his ribs last week. 'There's no doubt in my mind,' Newton said.
CLE: Brian Hoyer underwent reconstructive knee surgery (ACL injury) on October 19, 2014. As of April 29, 2014 Hoyer was participating in voluntary OTAs with the Browns, wearing a brace on his repaired right knee. Reports on June 4 indicated that Hoyer likely will be limited during the team's June minicamp. Hoyer said he wanted to be on the field but understands why the team is being cautious with him. On July 26, Hoyer opened camp with a brace on his right knee, but he also took all of the first-team reps in that session. The early word out of Cleveland is that the Browns' coaching staff considers Hoyer their starting quarterback as of late July. Hoyer continues to wear a brace but is fully engaged in a camp battle with Johnny Manziel as of mid-August. Hoyer didn't look good on Monday Night Football, with 2/6 for 16 yards passing, zero TDs and interceptions thrown, with one sack taken for -6 yards. He managed 10/16 for 84 yards passing, one TD and one interception thrown in the third exhibition, and has been named the teams' starter for Week One regular season.
CLE: Johnny Manziel suffered a minor ribs injury during the first preseason game - however, he continues to practice and according to Coach Mike Pettine on August 12 Manziel and Brian Hoyer will both work with the starters in Cleveland's second preseason game against the Redskins. Manziel had a rocky debut with few connections initially - he finished the night with 7/16 for 65 yards passing, one TD and zero interceptions, with three sacks taken for -7 yards. Manziel is officially the backup starting regular season - he posted 10/15 for 85 yards passing, with one rush for seven yards and a TD in the third exhibition game.
DAL: Five months removed from the second surgical procedure on his back over the last two years, Tony Romo is reportedly doing well in rehab. 'We feel good about Tony's health, first-hand, medically,' team owner Jerry Jones said on May 7, 2014. 'His back is everything that we want it to be at this time.' Romo was throwing the football around with authority at the early-May mini-camp, according to local sources. On May 27, Romo was reported to be right on schedule in his rehabilitation. As of July 24, Romo is expected to be a full participant in training camp: 'He has had no issues,' coach Jason Garrett said on the 24th. 'No obstacles holding him back.' Romo missed practice on Friday August 1, but it appears he was simply being rested - no setback due to the back is reported. Also, the team is holding Romo out of the preseason opener as a precautionary measure - he is expected to appear in the second preseason game on August 16. Stay tuned to see if Romo actually appears in that game. Romo didn't practice on Tuesday, August 5. Romo did practice Saturday, August 9 after sitting out of the first preseason game for precautionary reasons. Romo was expected to make an appearance vs. Baltimore on Saturday, August 16. He did play, and threw 4/5 for 80 yards, one TD and zero interceptions with zero sacks taken - so far, so good for Romo. Romo threw 10/18 for 87 yards passing at Miami in the third exhibition, while taking three sacks for -19 yards. Romo practiced during the week prior to the final preseason game, but didn't play in the contest as is traditional for starters - he should be ready for the season opener as expected.
Ex-MIA: Pat Devlin sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a hamstring injury of unspecified severity - he's missed several sessions due to the injury. Devlin was waived on August 11.
MIA: Matt Moore sat out of the first preseason game on Friday, August 8 due to a sore shoulder on his throwing arm. He threw 13/19 for 158 yards, one TD and zero interceptions in the second preseason game - the sore shoulder seems to be a thing of the past. Moore threw 12/19 for 172 yards, one TD and one interception during the third exhbition. Moore played briefly in the final exhibition with 5/8 for 38 yards passing. He's set as Ryan Tannehill's backup again this year.
NO: Drew Brees sat out Saturday's scrimmage because he has a strained left oblique, head coach Sean Payton explained at his post-scrimmage news conference. Payton said that Brees is "day to day" and that the team would monitor the injury. Brees did not practice on Monday, August 4. Brees was wearing pads but didn't practice much Tuesday, August 12, as the team eases him back onto the field. Brees is expected to play in the third preseason game after sitting out the second contest on August 15. Brees (oblique) said on Monday August 18 that he definitely plans to play in the third preseason game. Brees did play in the third exhibition and had a solid 9/15 for 128 yards passing, two TDs and zero interceptions, with zero sacks taken. He's set to be the Saints' starting quarterback in Week 1.
NYG: Eli Manning underwent arthroscopic surgery on his ankle in mid-April. He is said to be progressing well in his rehab, but won't practice until training camp to give the ankle time to heal. Manning said on May 28 that he feels like he can do all things in practice, but will be cautious in trying not to overdo anything as he recovers from ankle surgery. 'The last few weeks, I've been doing most things from a practice standpoint,' Manning said. 'We're still being smart about things and not trying to overdo it, but definitely, football activities, I feel like I can do them all full.' In camp the Giants are reportedly focusing on having Manning get rid of the ball more quickly under new OC Ben McAdoo. Manning played well into the first quarter of the Hall of Fame game - he did fumble in the contest but appeared to be moving around on the ankle with no issues. He played four series in the second preseason contest for the Giants, but the team was working on the running game mostly - Maning went 0/2 passing during his time on the field. Manning eked out 1/7 for six yards passing with one sack taken for -6 yards on Saturday, August 16. He finally had a half-decent showing vs. the Jets on August 22, with 12/21 for 139 yards, one TD and zero interceptions, with two sacks taken for - 22 yards. Manning played briefly in the final exhibition but put up an anemic 1/4 for zero yards passing before being pulled for precautionary reasons.
OAK: Derek Carr (concussion, ribs) returned to practice Monday, August 18, with extra padding for his ribs. He sat out of the game on August 22 due to continued discomfort from his ribs injury. Carr played in the final preseason game and threw 11/13 for 143 yards, three TDs and zero interceptions with zero sacks taken. Concerns over Matt Schaub's sore throwing arm elbow has Carr in the discussion for possibly starting in Week 1.
OAK: Matt Schaub's sore elbow isn't an issue that will keep him off the field Week One of the regular season, according to remarks from head coach Dennis Allen on August 25. Schaub (elbow) missed his third straight day of practice with elbow soreness Tuesday, August 26, but head coach Dennis Allen doesn't think Schaub's injury is serious, and the team expects him to play in Week 1 against the New York Jets. Schaub did some light throwing Wednesday, August 28. The team will have him throw again Monday, September 1, to see where his arm is at.
STL: Sam Bradford suffered a torn ACL/reconstructive surgery midway through the 2013 season. Unfortunately, an MRI revealed that the ACL was torn again on Saturday, August 23 and Bradford is lost for the season. Shaun Hill will take over for the Rams at starting quarterback.
TEN: Jake Locker underwent Lisfranc (foot) surgery in mid-November, 2013 - he is expected to be a full participant in OTA's and training camp, according to head coach Ken Whisenhunt on May 1, 2014. Locker said he was good moving around in practice Tuesday, May 27. Locker participated in all 10 of the team's OTAs this spring - the Titans are working on keeping Locker in the pocket more to minimize his chances of injury. Locker should be a full participant in training camp. He reported to camp five pounds lighter and has reportedly looked solid as a passer during the first week of camp. He had a brief cameo in the first preseason game going 1/2 for five yards passing. Locker threw 8/11 for 75 yards, one TD and zero interceptions during the second preseason game (with one sack taken for -7 yards). He tossed 12/17 for 188 yards passing, one TD and zero interceptions at Atlanta on August 23. Locker sat out of the final preseason game as is traditional for starters.
TEN: Charlie Whitehurst (finger injury) did not play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 23, nor did he appear in the final preseason contest. On August 25 the team indicated that Whitehurst remains the team's #2 quarterback.
WAS: As of April 17, 2014, reports out of Washington indicate that Robert Griffin III III is now fully healed from the knee injury/reconstructive surgery that hampered his 2013 season. Griffin has shed his knee brace and reportedly looks 'amazing' running on the field. A report on June 4 indicated that Griffin looks effortless in his dropbacks and throwing mechanics during organized team activities now that he isn't impeded by his knee brace. Reports on June 5 are that Griffin said the players have done a good job picking up the new offensive system but need more time to master the offense. 'I think it is coming together nicely. The quarterback room is doing really well and we’re ahead on a lot of things. But that’s where we’re supposed to be. We’ve got to have that mastery of the offense. But coming out here to the field... doing some talking at the line, getting some things under control and getting the looks that we need to be in, it’s been good,' On July 24, Washington's coaching staff indicated that Griffin would have very few designed runs during the 2014 season. Griffin has been up and down as a passer during the first week of camp, but he is fully participating. Griffin pitched 2/4 for nine yards passing during a brief appearance in the first preseason game. He managed 6/8 for 112 yards passing, zero TDs and one interception with one sack taken for -9 yards in the second preseason tilt vs. Cleveland. Griffin suffered a bruised thigh during the second exhibition and then looked horrid vs. Baltimore in the third preseason game on August 23 (5/8 for 20 yards passing, zero TDs and one interception thrown, with three sacks taken for -15 yards, and three rushes for three yards). Colt McCoy played the entire final preseason game, as Griffin sat out as is usual for starters during the preseason finale.
Running Backs
ATL: Steven Jackson suffered ANOTHER hamstring injury in practice on Monday, July 28 - this time it is to his other (left) hamstring. The team is saying he'll be ready for week one of regular season, but we all remember how Jackson's last soft tissue injury worked out...Jackson started doing some agility drills on August 11, but missed appearing in the second preseason game. He continued with agility drills on August 14. Jackson could receive some playing time in the final preseason game, according to head coach Mike Smith on August 25. However, Jackson didn't carry the football in the preseason finale.
BAL: Ray Rice was hampered by hip and thigh injuries throughout the 2013 season. Though he is reportedly in great condition as of April 2014, Rice will serve a two-game suspension to open the regular season. Reports out of training camp in late July indicated that Rice is in top condition as of the start of training camp. Rice has slimmed down from nearly 225 pounds all the way to 207. Rice is entrenched as the Ravens starter after one week of camp and looks improved over last season. He posted 3/17/0 rushing in the first preseason game (5.7 yards per carry). Rice posted 2/21/0 rushing at Dallas during the second preseason game. However, Rice suffered a shoulder bruise in the that game Saturday, August 16, but it 'shouldn't be anything too serious,' according to head coach John Harbaugh on August 17. Rice didn't play in the third preseason game as the team concentrated on getting the team ready to do without Rice for the first two games of regular season (Rice is suspended for that time period).
BAL: Bernard Pierce underwent shoulder surgery in January of 2014 - he is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, and was reported to be on pace in his rehab as of March 29, 2014. On May 29, reports indicated that Pierce may be a little ahead of schedule in his recovery from shoulder surgery. Pierce was able to do some light work during organized team activities Thursday, May 29. As of July 25, Pierce is looking good in training camp: 'I'm very confident in Bernard. I've always liked Bernard,' said coach John Harbaugh. 'He's a heck of a player. He's worked very hard, he’s 217 pounds, [and] he's in the best shape of his life. He looked good out here the last couple of days.' Pierce posted 10/37/1 rushing in the first preseason game. He had 7/55/0 rushing during the second preseason contest in Dallas. Pierce (concussion suffered early in the third preseason contest) is dealing with a mild concussion, according to head coach John Harbaugh on August 25. He is expected to be ready for regular season. Pierce (concussion) resumed practicing Saturday, August 30.
Ex-CAR now-NE: Tyler Gaffney will undergo surgery to repair the torn lateral meniscus in his left knee and will miss the rest of the season according to reports on July 26, 2014.
CAR: Jonathan Stewart missed 10 games last season due to ankle and knee problems - he is reportedly engaging in a yoga/stretching regimen to hopefully improve his durability during 2014. Unfortunately, Stewart will miss two-to-four weeks of training camp due to a hamstring injury incurred early in training camp. He is expected to miss at least the first preseason game. He looked good running straight ahead on a side field Thursday, August 7. Stewart worked out before Friday’s preseason game and is expected to be evaluated again Sunday. Stewart was held out of the game on Friday, August 8, as expected. Stewart did practice on Sunday, August 10 marking his first practice in training camp. He scored twice in the second preseason game (4/26/2 rushing). He posted 4/11/0 rushing and 1/20/0 receiving at New England in the third exhibition game. Stewart didn't appear in the fourth preseason game. as is usual for key veterans.
Ex-CIN: BenJarvus Green-Ellis suffered a hip injury in the second preseason game, it was revealed on August 22. He missed the third exhibition game and Jeremy Hill ran well in his place, with 12/48/0 rushing for Hill. Green-Ellis was released on cut-down day.
CIN: Jeremy Hill left the team's preseason game Thursday, August 28, with a right elbow injury but later returned to the action. He is set to be in the mix with starter Giovani Bernard in the Bengals' running back by committee after BenJarvus Green-Ellis was released on cut-down day.
Ex-CLE: Dion Lewis fractured his left fibula in mid-August last year, and underwent corrective surgery. Lewis was placed on IR and missed 2013 - he was present and participating in the first day of the Browns' OTA's on April 30, 2014. However, Lewis missed all of June's minicamp due to an unspecified injury - he didn't do well in the first preseason game, with 3/6/0 rushing and a fumble lost. Lewis did slightly better in the second preseason game with 4/7/0 rushing and 2/4/1 receiving. He posted 3/8/0 rushing and 2/10/0 receiving during the third exhibition game. Lewis was released on cut-down day.
DAL: Joseph Randle suffered a ribs injury during the third preseason game on Saturday, August 23. However, he was retained on the 53-man roster in the #3 running back position on cut-down day - Ryan Williams was signed to the practice squad and isn't currently on the active roster.
DEN: Montee Ball is out of training camp due to an emergency appendectomy - he said on August 8 that he feels well since the procedure (he's lost five pounds, though), but is unsure when he'll be healed enough to return to the team/practices. "Right now I am getting healthy and strengthening my core, just listening to my body. Just taking it day-by-day, step-by-step," Ball said. "When you see me back in pads, you will know I am ready." Ball returned to individual drills on Tuesday, August 19, but has not yet done any work with contact since the surgery. He did play in the third preseason game and posted 4/13/0 rushing and 4/21/0 receiving. Ball was held out of the fourth preseason game as is usual for starters.
DET: As of May 7, 2014, Joique Bell is rehabbing an unspecified left knee injury (head coach Jim Caldwell refused comment) - Bell posted an Instagram photo of his knee wrapped up and crutches at his side. On May 29, Bell said he should be ready for training camp in late July. Bell was cleared to run full speed on July 8, and is expected to fully participate in training camp. He reportedly looked good cutting and accelerating with ease during team portions of practice Wednesday, July 30. He had one carry for 11 yards vs. Cleveland in the first preeason game. Bell had 3/7/0 rushing in the second preseason contest. He posted 7/24/0 rushing and 1/1/0 receiving vs. Jacksonville in the third preseason game. Bell didn't appear in the fourth preseason game as is usual for key veteran players.
GB: Rajion Neal has missed the second and third preseason games due to a knee injury suffered in the first contest. He is now on I.R. and will miss the 2014 season.
HOU: Arian Foster underwent back surgery in November of 2013, missing the final eight games of the season. He was medically cleared by the team's doctors March 16, 2014 and participated in May OTAs with the team. Foster appears on track to fully participate in training camp/regular season. He is expected to be a three-down back under head coach Bill O'Brien. However, Foster was sidelined on July 29 due to a 'minor' hamstring injury: 'He's dealing with something,' coach Bill O’Brien said. 'He'll be fine. He'll be back. It's a minor deal. You know, it's a long season. He'll be out there.' As of Tuesday, August 12 Foster has continued to not make it onto the practice field. Coach O'Brien indicated he expects Foster on the field sometime later in the week - this is becoming a drawn-out rehabilitation, folks. "They [Foster and Andre Johnson] practiced more than they had, and it’s a good sign for our football team," coach Bill O’Brien said on August 19 after joint practices with the Broncos. According to the Houston Chronicle, Foster was running with the first team and "(displaying) his normal acceleration." However, Foster was held out of the third preseason game on August 23, and also missed the fourth preseason tilt.
IND: Vick Ballard tore his right ACL the Thursday prior to Week 2 games during 2013 - as of May 5, 2014 he's said to be close to 100% recovered from the injury. However, on Friday, July 24 Ballard tore his Achilles tendon and is now done for the season (again).
IND: Ahmad Bradshaw went on the IR October 8, 2013 due to his injured neck, and subsequently had corrective surgery for the injury. Bradshaw also deals with a chronic foot injury - he was re-signed by the Colts in free agency (March 11, 2014). As of April 24, 2014 Bradshaw reported that his neck 'feels great' but it isn't back to 100% healthy yet. Bradshaw expects to be ready for training camp. Bradshaw was on the field for organized team activities Wednesday, June 4, but he was wearing a no contact jersey. As of July 24 Bradshaw was cleared for resuming full practices during training camp. He didn't appear in the first preseason game, although a report on August 11 indicated that he'll get a little work during either the second or third preseason contest. The Colts are being cautious with their veteran backup during the exhibition season. Bradshaw was held out of the second preseason game. Bradshaw rushed three times for two yards and caught an 11-yard pass in the Colts' third preseason game against the Saints. He didn't play in the preseason finale.
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. He posted 9/21/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the second preseason game. He had a meager 6/17/0 rushing during the third exhibition game.
JAX: Toby Gerhart (hip injury, missed first preseason game) said he hopes to be able to play in the second preseason game. He said on August 9 that he has been taking part in a running program and has not had any issues. Gerhart (hip) is the 'lead dog' in the ground game, according to offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch on August 12. He was expected to play in the second preseason game. Gerhart went 6/19/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving during the second preseason contest. He posted 10/32/0 rushing at Detroit in the third preseason contest. Gerhart was held out of the fourth preseason contest as is usual for starters.
KC: Jamaal Charles suffered a bruised foot when he twisted it after practice, according to head coach Andy Reid on Monday, August 18. Charles sat out of the Week 2 preseason game versus the Carolina Panthers as a precautionary measure, Reid said. He also sat out of the third preseason game, but is simply being preserved for regular season - he doesn't need preseason reps.
MIA: Knowshon Moreno suffered a back injury in the Super Bowl and missed most of the second half, but is expected to be fine for OTAs. However, as of June 23, 2014 Moreno had an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee - he was placed on the active/PUP list as of Thursday, July 24 and is missing the start of training camp while he rehabs the knee. Reports out of Miami also indicate that Moreno's weight is an issue heading into training camp. On August 1, Moreno indicated he is unsure if he'll appear during the preseason: "I don't know. I don't know. I really don't even know. I just want to take each day one at a time. They have a schedule for me and they're just going to tell me every day what I have to do, and I just go out there and do it,". Moreno returned in time to play in the third preseason game, and looked great with 10/64/0 rushing (albeit against the Cowboys' sorry defense). "We haven't released anything," head coach Joe Philbin said. "We're still evaluating right up until we name our starter." Moreno didn't play in the final preseason game as is usual for key veterans.
Ex-MIA: Daniel Thomas missed the first preseason game on August 8 due to a sore hamstring. He also missed the second game, but returned to practice on Monday, August 18. Thomas is rumored to be on the roster bubble. He was inactive for the third exhibition game. 13/38/1 rushing in the preseason finale wasn't enough to save his job - Thomas was released on cut-down day.
MIA: Damian Williams was carted off the field with an undisclosed injury late in the game on Friday, August 7 - he had a walking boot on his foot after the game and was scheduled for an MRI over the weekend. Williams led the team in rushing (11/20/1) and receiving (3/46/0) in the 20-14 victory over Tampa Bay during the second preseason tilt. He had 7/33/1 rushing and 1/54/0 receiving in the third preseason game. Williams posted 3/14/0 rushing in the preseason finale.
NE: Shane Vereen said on May 2, 2014 that his 2013 wrist fracture still isn't fully healed. 'It’s not going to feel great tomorrow, it's not going to feel awful,' he said. 'It won’t be 100 percent probably for a while, but it's good enough and I'm working on strengthening it and getting it back.' Vereen also battled groin woes during the playoffs last January. As of late May Vereen was considered the top back in the Patriots' committee - we'll see how the wrist holds up during training camp. He was 1/7/0 rushing during a cameo appearance in the first preseason game at Washington. Vereen handled two targets for 2/21/0 receiving in the second preseason game - he didn't log a carry. Vereen was impactful in the third preseason game with 6/18/0 rushing and 5/57/2 receiving to his credit. Vereen was held out of the fourth preseason game as is usual with starters.
NO: Pierre Thomas sat out of the first preseason game due to an unspecified injury. Head coach Sean Payton refused to comment after the game on why Pierre Thomas sat out of the first preseason contest, reiterating that he doesn't address injuries during preseason. Thomas logged three receptions for 27 yards in the second exhibition game. He led the team in reception yards week three, with 4/66/0 receiving and added 3/13/0 rushing.
NYG: Peyton Hillis suffered an ankle/foot sprain on Tuesday, August 5 and has been missing practice since. Local reports indicate the injury will keep Hillis out for an indefinite period of time - he didn't log a carry in the first preseason game. As of August 14 Hillis was targeting Monday, August 18 for a return to practices. He did finally return to practices on August 24. Hillis logged 11/40/1 rushing in the preseason finale, and made the final 53-man roster.
Ex-NYG: As of June 4, 2014, David Wilson (neck surgery/spinal disk fusion) did not gain medical clearance after a MRI and exam. He'll reportedl8y undergo another test/exam just before training camp. Wilson was cleared for all phases of practice on July 21 and opened training camp as the team's #2 running back on July 23. Unfortunately, Wilson suffered a neck injury/burner in practice on Tuesday, July 29 - he was advised by medical personnel to end his NFL career after the incident on July 29. He was placed on IR August 4 and has announced that he is leaving the game.
NYJ: Chris Ivory suffered a cracked rib and a hip pointer in the regular-season finale last December. He is expected to be ready for OTAs and training camp this year. On Thursday, July 24 Ivory 'tweaked' his hamstring but he returned to practice on July 25 and it appears the hamsting is not seriously injured. Ivory suffered a ribs injury in the first preseason game on August 7, and on August 10 he said that he felt "some movement" of his ribs after the injury. Ivory didn't practice on Saturday, August 9 due to the injury. Ivory is likely to play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 16, according to comments made by head coach Rex Ryan on August 12. However, Ivory didn't log a carry during that contest. He did play in the third preseason game, with 6/50/0 rushing and 1/23/0 receiving during his time on the field. Ivory was held out of the fourth preseason game as is usual for starters.
NYJ: Chris Johnson had late-January arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus in his knee (torn in week three of the 2013 season), and there have been some reports that the knee is developing arthritis. However, the Jets signed him to a two-year, $8 million deal with a $3 million signing bonus in April, so their concerns over the knee can't be too dire. He was cleared for training camp on July 23 and was reportedly 'flying' during his conditioning run. Johnson said he was pleased with how his surgically repaired knee felt during his first full contact practice Saturday, August 2. He posted 4/2/1 rushing and 2/16/0 receiving during the first preseason game. He posted 10/63/0 rushing and 2/1/0 receiving at the Bengals' house in the second preseason game. He had 9/42/0 rushing and 2/35/0 receiving vs. the Giants on August 22. Johnson was held out of the fourth preseason game as is usual with starters.
OAK: Kory Sheets tweeted that he is out for the 2014 season after suffering an Achilles' injury Friday, August 22.
PHI: LeSean McCoy suffered a thumb injury in the third preseason game Thursday, August 21. He also missed one practice earlier in the week due to a sore toe - X-rays on McCoy's thumb were negative, but he didn't return after his 22-yard touchdown catch gave Philadelphia a 7-0 lead. Eagles head coach Chip Kelly called McCoy's thumb injury "no big deal.". "A helmet hit it," McCoy said, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. "It definitely hurts. But there have been times I've been banged up and it turns out fine. We'll see what happens... I feel like I've got a lot of work to do. Feel quick but my legs feel little heavy. It's still early. Need some time be more effective and get in the work mode I need to be effective this year. ... I feel good, though." McCoy practiced on Saturday, August 23, further reinforcing the notion that the thumb injury isn't serious. McCoy (thumb, toe) said on August 25 that he will be fine for Week 1 after suffering a thumb injury in the team's preseason game Thursday, August 21. McCoy also said that a toe injury that kept him out of a practice last week was 'feeling good.' McCoy continued to practice as usual with the team on August 25 - he is expected to play as usual in the regular season opener.
PHI: RB Chris Polk sat out of training camp on Sunday, August 3 due to a sore hamstring. The severity of the injury wasn't indicated at that time, but later was revealed as a partial tear of the hamstring. Polk missed the Eagles' preseason opener with the hamstring strain, and hadn't resumed practicing as of August 11. As of August 19, Polk is reportedly targeting the last week in August to return to practices, but that is not based on the team trainers' opinion(s) (players are often more optimistic about their condition than the medical staff). Polk says he knows he has a lot of work to do to recover from the strained hamstring. Polk practiced Saturday, August 23, but reportedly could still feel pain when he made cuts. Polk missed the final preseason game as well. However, Polk made the final cut to the 53-man roster - he is seen as LeSean McCoy's backup.
PIT: Le'Veon Bell (tweaked hamstring) didn't finish practice Sunday, July 27, due to a tight hamstring. However, he was soon back to action: Bell participated in practice Thursday, July 31. He led the team in rushing during the first preseason game, with 3/18/0 and added 1/6/0 receiving. He managed 4/11/0 rushing vs. Buffalo in the second exhibition game. He posted 9/23/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Philadelphia in the third exhibition game. He briefly appeared in the fourth preseason game (2/8/0 rushing).
SD: Ryan Mathews ended last season on a sour note, tweaking a previously injured ankle in the Chargers' Wild Card round victory and then being mostly unavailable during the Divisional round of the playoffs. He is expected to be fine for the start of training camp this year. However, Mathews (elbow, arm) was practicing with his elbow and upper arm wrapped Monday, June 2. No details about the severity of the injury were offered, but as he was on the field practicing the issue must have been relatively minor. Reports during July indicate that Mathews is going to be the lead back in an attack that emphasizes the running game. He posted 5/19/0 rushing vs Dallas in the first preseason game. He was rested for the second preseason game vs. Seattle's stout D. Mathews played vs. San Francisco in the third exhibition and put up 4/22/0 rushing and 2/26/0 receiving during the contest. Mathews sat out of the fourth preseason contest as is usual for starters.
SEA: Christine Michael left practice early Sunday, July 27, after dinging his right shoulder. Head coach Pete Carroll said Michael should be able to return Tuesday, July 29. He played in the first preseason game vs. Denver (7/16/1 rushing with 3/12/0 receiving), and was listed as the third running back on a depth chart released by the team August 12. He posted 8/45/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving in the second preseason game vs. San Diego. He led the team in rushing with 8/28/0 and caught a TD vs. Chicago (3/36/1) in the third preseason tilt. As of August 27, Michael was reportedly dealing with a hamstring injury.
SEA: Robert Turbin had an arthroscopic procedure on his knee during the offseasn, but as of June 9, 2014 he was reportedly fully recovered. Turbin got lots of reps initially in training camp due to Marshawn Lynch's brief holdout, and put up 4/5/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Denver in the first preseason contest. He led the team in rushing during the second exhibition vs. San Diego, with 12/81/1 rushing and 1/5/0 receiving. Turbin posted 6/26/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the third preseason game. Turbin put up 4/11/0 rushing at Oakland in the preseason finale.
SF: Kendall Hunter tore his right ACL during practice on Friday, July 24 and is done for the season.
SF: LaMichael James (elbow injury) likely will miss the entire preseason but should be ready for the start of the regular season. James returned to action in the third preseason game with 7/9/0 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving. James posted 6/39/0 rushing at Houston in the preseason finale.
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. Lattimore will start the season on the NFI list (which operates like the PUP list - he'll be out at least another six weeks).
STL: Isaiah Pead will likely be out for the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, which buckled at the end of a 33-yard kickoff return in the first quarter on Saturday, August 16. The Rams waived Pead with a waived/injured designation Wednesday, August 20. Pead will revert back to the roster (he did clear waivers) and then head to I.R.
TB: Mike James is recovering from an ankle injury (week 10, 2013) and James missed chunks of OTAs as he rehabilitated his ankle. He posted 3/12/0 rushing at Jacksonville during the first preseason game. He posted 3/18/0 rushing in the second preseason game, but hurt his shoulder. As of August 17, James is unlikely to play in the team's next preseason game against the Buffalo Bills Saturday, August 23, according to head coach Lovie Smith. James did not play in the third preseason game, as expected. James didn't appear in the fourth preseason game either.
TB: As of March 31, 2014 Doug Martin was medically cleared to resume his football career after suffering a labrum tear in his shoulder Week 7 of the 2013 season. The injury appears to be a thing of the past as of May 2014. He posted 3/6/0 rushing during a cameo during the first preseason game at Jacksonville. Martin handled 6/24/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving in the second preseason contest. Martin gained 12/38/1 rushing and 2/27/0 receiving at Buffalo in the third preseason game. Martin was held out of the preseason finale as is usual for starters.
TB: Charles Sims has been lost for 12-14 weeks due to right ankle surgery - he's likely to go on IR/designated to return as a result of the procedure, which will cost him at least half the 2014 season.
TEN: Shonn Greene has had two right knee surgeries over the past 12 months - he complained of right knee soreness and swelling during the Titans' early-May minicamp and promptly went under the knife for an arthroscopic knee surgery (reported on May 11). Greene did not participate in organized team activities Monday, June 2. Greene was cleared for training camp on July 25, but reports on July 28 indicated that the Titans want him to lose 5-10 pounds during training camp. He posted 4/20/1 rushing vs. Green Bay in the first preseason game. Green had 9/46/0 rushing to lead the Titans at New Orleans in the second preseason contest. However, Greene said Friday, August 15, that he suffered a hyperextended knee in the preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. Greene suspects he will be OK. He did practice on Monday, August 18 and seems to not be affected by the ding to his leg. On Monday, August 25 we learned that Greene has lost five to 10 pounds to meet the team's weight goal after he missed most of camp due to his knee surgery. He looks ready to go for regular season. Greene did not play in the preseason finale as is usual for starters, while Bishop Sankey did play (7/43/0 rushing with 1/3/0 receiving).
Was: Roy Helu (knee injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after posting 5/14/0 rushing and 2/23/0 receiving on August 7 at Washington. He played in the second preseason game with 3/8/0 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving. Helu had 7/30/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving at Baltimore during the third exhibition game. Helu is on the 53-man roster and is expected to handle third down/passing down situations behind Alfred Morris.
Ex-WAS: Evan Royster (hamstring injury) did not participate in practice Sunday, July 27. He played in the first preseason game with 7/23/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving. Royster put up 1/2/1 rushing and 1/24/0 receiving vs. Cleveland on Monday Night Football. Royster handled 1/3/0 rushing and 2/26/0 receiving at Baltimore in the third exhibition game. Royster was waived on cut-down day.
Ex-WAS: Chris Thompson (ankle injury of unspecified severity, but thought to be minor) missed practice on Saturday, August 9 after running for 4/5/0 and grabbing 2/12/0 receiving at Washington on August 7. On August 12 head coach Jay Gruden said of Thompson: "It’s disappointing. He’s got to figure out how to stay healthy.". The low ankle sprain kept Thompson sidelined for the second and third preseason games. Thompson was waived on cut-down day.
Wide Receivers
ARI: John Brown (hamstring strain) missed practice Saturday, August 2. He was also forced out of the session on August 5, and was spotted with the same leg/hamstring wrapped after practice. Brown caught five of his team-high 10 targets for 87 yards against the Texans Saturday night August 9, and was compared favorably to Anquan Boldin by the Cardinals' GM Steve Keim on August 12. He led the team in receiving at Minnesota in the second exhibition with four targets for 2/86/0 receiving. He handled eight targets for 4/56/1 vs. the Bengals in the third exhibition game. Brown made the 53-man roster and is likely to be heavily involved as the Cardinals' third wide receiver, according to reports out of Arizona.
ATL: Julio Jones broke his foot after just five games last season, but his rehabilitation is progressing well. As of April 22, 2014 Jones is expected to be limited during OTAs but ready to participate in full during training camp. On May 18, head coach Mike Smith confirmed that Jones would be limited during OTAs and mini-camp with the intention that he be ready to go in training camp. Smith also indicated that Jones is ahead of schedule on the rehab of his foot. Jones was able to make some cuts on the field during organized team activities Wednesday, June 4. On July 23, coach Smith indicated that while Jones will participate in practices he'll be limited during the first part of training camp. 'Our number one goal is to make sure that we've got everybody as healthy as we possibly can be, but we know that we have to get these guys some work together and reps. Julio will be out there participating in practice right from the start.' Jones has practiced for a limited amount of time during the first week of training camp as the team eases him back onto the field. He's been practicing on a one-day-on, one-day-off schedule - Jones didn't appear in the first preseason game. Jones was rested Tuesday, AUgust 12 as part of his normal schedule this preseason. Jones saw four passes for 2/20/0 in his preseason debut at Houston. Jones looked great in the third preseason game with a nifty 52-yard TD reception and 2/63/1 receiving. Jones was held out of the final preseason game as is usual for starters.
Ex-BUF: Kevin Elliott was suffering from concussion-like symptoms due to a blow suffered in practice on Sunday, July 27. He didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game. Elliott did appear in the second exhibition at Pittsburgh, with one target for zero catches. He was waived on August 19.
BUF: Marquise Goodwin was cleared to practice on August 5 after suffering a hamstring strain on August 1. He hauled in 1/18/0 receiving in the first preseason game. During the third preseason game vs. Tampa Bay he suffered a neck injury and didn't return to action - he'll be evaluated further. He did make the final 53-man roster.
BUF: Sammy Watkins (ribs injury) did not practice Monday, August 18. He sat out of the Saturday afternoon preseason game at Tampa Bay (August 23) due to his sore ribs, though he probably would have played if the game counted. Watkins (ribs) fully participated in practice Monday, August 25. Watkins said he will be able to play in the final preseason game if needed (but the team is expected to hold him out for precautionary reasons). Watkins did appear in the game, however, and he re-injured his sore ribs during the contest. He didn't return to the final exhibition after aggravating his ribs.
BUF: Mike Williams was stabbed in his thigh on March 23, 2014, after missing the second half of the 2013 season in Tampa Bay due to a torn hamstring. He reported to training camp on July 19 100% healthy - he is reportedly past the leg injuries that bothered him this spring. Wiliams started in the Hall of Fame game. Williams snagged 1/10/0 receiving at Pittsburgh in Buffalo's third preseason contest. Williams started across from Robert Woods on Saturday, August 23, in Sammy Watkins' absence. Williams made the final 53-man roster as the starter across from Watkins.
BUF: Robert Woods participated in OTAs during late May after having ankle surgery during February, 2014. He opened training camp listed as one of the starting wide receivers across from Sammy Watkins - he is apparently past the ankle issue. Woods appeared in the Hall of Fame game, but didn't start. He saw eight targets for 4/31/0 in the second preseason game at Carolina. Woods led the team in receiving vs. Pittsburgh with six targets for 3/49/0 receiving. Mike Williams started across from Woods on Saturday, August 23, in Sammy Watkins' absence. Woods made the final 53-man roster as the #3 wide receiver on the team.
Ex-CHI: Domenik Hixon was released by the Bears with an injury settlement on June 3 after tearing his right ACL for the third time on May 27, 2014. Hixon appears to be planning on retiring from the NFL after his most recent ACL injury.
CHI: Marquess Wilson (broken right collarbone) underwent surgery Tuesday, August 5, and is out indefinitely. He may go to IR or IR/designated to return, but either way he's out for a big chunk of the season.
CIN: Marvin Jones suffered an ankle injury on July 21 - he is said to be day-to-day due to the relatively-minor injury. However, as of early August (August 2) he hadn't participated in any of the training camp practices - shortly after coming off the active/NFI list Jones broke the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot during practice on Saturday, August 10. The team hopes to have him back by week five of the regular season, but Footballguys.com injury expert Dr. Jene Bramel feels that 8-10 weeks or even 10-12 weeks are more realistic time frames for recovery from this type of foot injury/surgery/rehabilitation (Jones had a screw inserted in the bone to help aid the recovery). The bottom line is that Jones is out for an indefinite but long period of time during the upcoming season due to this injury.
CLE: Miles Austin was (once again) plagued by hamstring woes during 2013, and largely ineffective for Dallas, who released him on March 11, 2014. The wide receiver-hungry Browns took a gamble and signed him to a deal on March 15. Austin participated in practice on Saturday, July 26. He has reportedly been impressive during training camp, and posted 1/13/0 at Detroit in the first preseason game. He didn't catch a pass in the second preseason game. Austin saw six targets for 2/23/0 receiving during the third exhibition game. He made the final 53-man roster as one of the starting wide receivers.
Ex-CLE: Nate Burleson Burleson said on June 3 that he did not fracture his arm during an April minicamp and it was just a minor injury. He said the severity of the injury was exaggerated. Because there was no fracture, Burleson was able to run and lift weights with the cast on. Burleson participated in practice Saturday, July 26. He didn't catch a pass in the first preseason game. As of August 15 Burleson had missed the last couple days of practice due to a hamstring injury, and was not expected to play in Monday night's preseason game against the Redskins. He didn't practice on Saturday, August 16, either. He's continued to miss practices and didn't play in the third exhibition game. Burleson was released on cut-down day.
DEN: Jordan Norwood (knee injury) was placed on the Reserve/Injured list Monday, August 25 - his season is over.
DEN: Emmanuel Sanders practiced fully on August 21 as he returned from a quadriceps injury - the team expected to have him in the lineup for the third preseason game. Sanders played very well in his return to action during the third exhibition game (5/128/2 receiving). As of August 26 Sanders was practicing with the team, but taking breaks to keep from over-working the injured quadriceps. He is still not 100% healthy entering regular season.
DEN: Wes Welker suffered his third concussion in ten months during the third exhibition game. He'll be out indefinitely while in the NFL's concussion protocols, though local beat writer Mike Klis reported on August 25 that Welker has a 'good chance' to play in the first regular season game. Concussion after-effects are notoriously unpredictable, however - stay tuned to see how soon Welker receives medical clearance to resume football activities. Welker has reportedly improved steadily since his injury - however, as of August 27 he was not cleared to resume football practices. Reports on August 31 indicated that Welker's activity level would increase on September 1, when the 53-man roster resumed practicing.
DET: Ryan Broyles tore his Achilles tendon in October of 2013, but was given a clean bill of health on April 9, 2014 - he has resumed football activities. Reports on June 4 indicated that Broyles has worked on the placement of his feet, knees and hips, and is learning movements and proper form in order to eliminate future injuries. Broyles has already come back from two ACL tears and says the Achilles rehabilitation has been easier than the ACL rehabs. Reports in early July indicated that Broyles has lost some of his acceleration/explosiveness after the litany of injuries. He played in the first preseason game and snagged 3/27/0. He was second on the team with three targets for 2/42/0 receiving vs. Oakland in the second preseason game. He handled three targets for 3/44/0 receiving in the third preseason game. Broyles made the final 53-man roster as one of the backup wide receivers.
DET: T.J. Jones is on the active/PUP list to open training camp due to a shoulder issue. He remained on the PUP list and will miss at least the first six weeks of the regular season as of August 23.
DET: Golden Tate opened training camp on the active/PUP list due to a sore shoulder dating back to OTAs. Tate is considered day-to-day and should join training camp shortly, although as of late July he is missing sessions. Tate appeared in the first preseason game and caught 1/14/0. Tate reeled in a TD pass from Matthew Stafford in the second exhibition, and posted three targets for 3/41/1 during the game. He's a stater across from Calvin Johnson entering the regular season.
GB: Jared Abbrederis tore his right ACL on Thursday, July 31 and has been lost for the season.
GB: Jeff Janis missed the first seven practices of training camp due to a bout of shingles. However, Janis has made several big plays in training camp since returning from the illness. 'Jeff Janis has made a play every day he's been out there,' head coach Mike McCarthy said Tuesday, August 12. 'He made another big play today. He looks good.' Janis hauled in a 34-yard TD pass in the second preseason game (one target for 1/34/1). He as thrown to twice vs. Oakland but didn't manage a catch. Janis made the 53-man roster as the fifth wide receiver.
HOU: Andre Johnson was forced out of practice on July 29 due to a strained hamstring. The severity of the strain isn't currently known. Johnson did not participate in practice Sunday, August 3. Johnson said he would like to play in the first preseason game but is not sure if he will. Johnson didn't play and hasn't practiced yet as of August 12. "They [Foster and Andre Johnson] practiced more than they had, and it’s a good sign for our football team," coach Bill O’Brien said on August 19 after joint practices with the Broncos. Johnson saw five targets for 3/18/0 at Denver on August 23. Johnson is starting for the Texans as usual entering the regular season.
IND: Reggie Wayne suffered a torn right ACL and meniscus damage in his knee on October 20, 2013. He is said to be recovering well and is reportedly ahead of schedule in rehabilitating the knee. On April 8 Wayne was said to be targeting the end of April to begin training/conditioning work - he appears to be on schedule for participating in the 2014 training camp. On July 23 Wayne was cleared for training camp - he'll likely be eased into training camp with lighter sessions at first. Stay tuned to see if Wayne suffers any setbacks once the pads go on. Wayne (knee) said on July 31 that he hasn't had any problems so far with his surgically repaired right knee. Wayne was held out of the first preseason game as a precautionary measure - the team is limiting his time in practices during training camp to help aid his recovery from knee surgery. He didn't catch a pass in the second preseason game. Wayne was a game-time decision for the third preseason game, and only played briefly (one target for zero catches). Wayne is starting across from T.Y. Hilton as of the first week of regular season.
JAX: Jaguars WR Marqise Lee (right ankle injury) said on June 5 that he believes he could be ready to return to organized team activities late next week. He said the team doesn't want to rush him back and that he will be ready for training camp. Lee was in a walking boot due to the injury as of June 3. Lee also battled a jammed wrist during OTAs - he's been nicked up a lot during the first month of his pro career. On July 25, Jaguars DM Dave Caldwell stated that Lee could see action at slot receiver while Ace Sanders is out on his suspension. Lee didn't catch a ball in the first preseason game, only played 16 snaps, and had his effort level called out by head coach Gus Bradley on August 9. He reeled in 4/27/1 out of four targets at Chicago in the second exhibition. Lee is listed as a starting wide receiver entering Week One of regular season.
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. Robinson is listed as Cecil Shorts' backup entering the first game of regular season.
JAX: Cecil Shorts had a sports hernia surgery in December, 2013 - as of April 23, he expects to be 100% healed very soon. We'll see how quickly the team doctors clear him for football activities. Shorts left the team's practice Wednesday, June 4, due to a minor calf injury, but he was on the field participating which is a positive sign about his recovery from sports hernia surgery. Unfortunately, Shorts suffered a hamstring strain on Friday, July 24 and is out 'several' weeks while his soft-tissue injury heals. He should be able to come back by week one of regular season if he doesn't suffer a setback later in camp. Shorts said on August 9 that he is ahead of schedule in his rehab from a hamstring injury but does not have a clear timetable for his return. Shorts said has been able to do some running and is feeling good. He is not expected to play in the second preseason game against the Chicago Bears. Shorts caught a few passes Tuesday, August 12, but didn't run any routes. Shorts returned to practices on Sunday, August 17. Shorts (hamstring) is expected to start in the third preseason game unless he suffers a setback during practice this week, according to head coach Gus Bradley on August 18. Shorts will be on the field for around 15 offense snaps during the third preseason game, according to head coach Gus Bradley on August 20. He saw two targets for zero catches during the third exhibition game at Detroit. Shorts is listed as one of the starting wide receivers as of Week 1.
KC: Dwayne Bowe is nursing a quadriceps injury and a finger issue, and missed practice on August 21 due to the quad injury. He was held out of the third preseason game due to his injured quad (August 24). Bowe will miss the first game of the season due to a NFL suspension, but he is still considered a starter for the team as of Week 1.
Ex-MIA: Armon Binns tore his ACL and MCL in late July of 2013, and landed on IR for the season. He is reportedly (May 2, 2014) looking good in training sessions and appears to be on track to take part in training camp. He had one catch for six yards at Atlanta in the first preseason game. Binns saw three targets for 2/28/0 receiving in the second preseason game vs. Tampa. He handled three targets for 1/5/0 receiving vs. Dallas on August 23. Binns was waived on August 26.
MIA: Brandon Gibson suffered a torn left patellar tendon during late October, and was placed on I.R. October 29, 2013, one day after corrective surgery. He has reportedly (May 2, 2014) looked good in offseason conditioning sessions. However, on June 7 local reports indicated that Gibson (knee) has only participated in one of the organized team activities this offseason, because he wants to go slow with his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament - the left knee injury was evidently more serious than initially reported. However, since the start of training camp Gibson has been going full speed and reportedly looks fully healthy as of July 26. Gibson caught the only TD that Miami scored in the first preseason game, with two targets for 2/14/1 during the contest. He saw three targets for 2/28/0 during the second exhibition contest. He started in the third preseason game but didn't garner a target. Gibson made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
MIA: Brian Hartline suffered a torn PCL in the 2013 regular-season finale, but surgery wasn't necessary to repair the ligament - it healed naturally. Unfortunately, Hartline suffered an undisclosed injury on Saturday, August 2 and was forced to sit out the first preseason game on August 8 as a result - he hasn't practiced since the injury occurred. He did appear in the second game at Tampa, with two targets for 1/5/0 receiving. He saw five targets for 3/25/0 vs. Dallas on August 23. Hartline is a starter for the Dolphins entering regular season.
Ex-MIA: Matt Hazel suffered a concussion during practice Thursday, July 31, and will miss several days of practice. He will not participate in the team's scrimmage Saturday, August 2. Hazel did play in the first preseason game August 8, with three targets for zero receptions. He managed 1/5/0 receiving on one target in the second preseason duel at Tampa Bay. He saw three targets for 1/3/0 vs. Dallas. Hazel was waived on August 30.
MIA: Mike Wallace missed the weekend practices after being held out of practice on Thursday, July 31 due to a sore hamstring. He's expected to be back in sessions shortly, but soft tissue injuries can linger if they are not allowed to fully heal. Wallace returned to practice on Monday, August 4. However, he was unable to play in the preseason contest on August 8 due to the sore hamstring - it is becoming a nagging injury, apparently, and has been a problem for about two weeks as of August 8. Wallace saw three targets for zero receptions at Tampa Bay. He led the team in receiving during the third exhibition game with eight targets for 6/67/0 receiving. Wallace is listed as a starter in Miami entering Week One of regular season.
NE: Danny Amendola tore a tendon in his groin early in the 2013 regular season, and the injury was a nagging issue for him all season long. However, reports on May 8, 2014 indicated that he avoided a groin surgery and enters spring OTAs 100% recovered from the injury. Reports in June indicated that Amendola looked outstanding during OTAs - we'll see how he holds up once the pads go on and hitting starts in training camp. Amendola was reportedly looking well and playing well in a joint practice with Washington on August 6. He snagged on pass for nine yards vs. Philadelphia on August 15. Amendola is on the 53-man roster as of Week 1.
NE: On March 10, 2014 Aaron Dobson underwent surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot. The timetable for his recovery is said to be two-to-three months, which should put Dobson in good shape for training camp if all goes according to plan. However, Dobson started training camp on the PUP list (July 21), so he isn't ready to play yet. He was doing some work on August 14, but Dobson was limited to some position drills during practice Thursday, and is still not cleared for contact. Dobson made his preseason debut in the final preseason contest, so he is now cleared for football activities. He saw nine targets for 3/57/1 receiving during that preseason finale. Dobson made the 53-man roster and is seen as in the mix to be the #2 wide receiver for the Patriots.
Ex-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. He was waived on August 30.
NE: Kenbrell Thompkins ended the playoffs on the inactive list due to a concussion - he should be fine for training camp, but once a player has suffered a concussion they are more susceptible to future brain traumas. He caught one pass for 11 yards at Washington during the first preseason game. He saw four targets for 3/32/1 receiving in the second exhibition game. He recorded three targets for 2/35/0 in the third exhbition. Thompkins made the final 53-man roster and is in the mix for the #2 wide receiver job as of Week 1.
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. He handled four targets for 2/25/1 receiving at Indianapolis, and hasn't shown signs of problems with his foot during preseason. On August 26, Colston said he feels much healthier this season after being plagued by a foot injury the last year or two. The team has limited his workload this preseason to keep him fresh for the season.
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. Stills returned to practices on Sunday, August 17. Unfortunately, Stills reinjured his quadriceps early in the third preseason game, and left the game. Reports on August 27 indicated that Stills is questionable to play in Week One of regular season - he's made the final 53-man roster but is a backup wide receiver as of Week One.
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. Beckham reportedly aggravated the hamstring problem in practice on Monday, August 18 and he is now iffy for the start of regualar season. Beckham was not active for the preseason game Friday, August 22, against the New York Jets. On Monday, August 25 it was announced he'll miss the final preseason game, too. Beckham did make the final 53-man roster.
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. Cruz appeared in the game vs. Indianapolis and saw two targets for zero receptions. Cruz led the team in receiving vs. the Jets with seven targets for 4/61/0. Cruz is a starter entering Week One of regular season.
NYG: Marcus Harris is expected to miss three to four weeks after suffering an AC joint injury in his shoulder during the third preseason game on August 23. He was sent to I.R. and his season is now over.
NYG: Trindon Holliday (hamstring injury) did not participate in practice Monday, August 25. He was sent to I.R. and his season is now over.
NYG: Mario Manningham was sent to I.R. due to a calf injury - his 2014 season is over.
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. Randle played at Indianapolis but only saw one pass for zero receptions. Randle saw four targets for 2/41/1 receiving vs. the Jets (catching Eli Manning's first TD pass of the preseason). Randle is starting across from Victor Cruz as of Week 1.
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). Decker sat out the second preseason contest due to a sore quadriceps. He handled five targets for 3/34/1 in the third exhibition game. Decker is a starter for the Jets as of Week 1.
Ex-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. He saw two targets for 1/17/0 receiving vs. Cincinnati. He saw four targets for 2/40/0 vs. the Giants on August 22. Gates was waived by the Jets on August 30.
Ex-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. Hill saw two passes for 1/17/0 receiving vs. Cincinnati. Hill saw four targets but only one catch vs. the Giants in the third preseason game. He's buried on the depth chart even if he makes the team. Hill was released on cut-down day.
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. He was elevated to the starting lineup in the second preseason game (five targets for 2/29/0 receiving). Jones snagged 4/36/0 out of 10 targets at Green Bay last weekend. Jones is a starter for the Raiders entering regular season.
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. He handled three targets for 2/8/0 vs. Detroit. He saw three targets for 1/16/0 at Green Bay in the third exhibition game. Streater is a starter for the Raiders entering regular season.
PHI: Arrelious Benn suffered a concussion during the third preseason game. He'll have to pass the NFL concussion protocols before resuming football activities. Reports on Friday, August 29 indicated that Benn was placed on I.R. due to a back injury - his season is over.
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. Most recently, Cooper was practicing on Monday, August 18. Cooper caught three passes for 25 yards in the Thursday, August 21 preseason game against Pittsburgh. Cooper is a starter for the Eagles as of Week 1.
PHI: Josh Huff is expected to miss about a week with a shoulder injury. X-Rays on the injury came back negative, and Huff has his arm in a sling on Sunday, August 17. On August 19 we learned Huff has a sprained A/C joint and doesn't require surgery - he didn't play in the third preseason game. Huff made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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 Chicago in the first preseason game. Maclin returned to practice on Monday, August 18 after battling a sore hamstring over the past week. He tweaked his surgically repaired knee in the third preseason game, but went back on the field after being checked out. Maclin practiced on Saturday, August 23 which further displays that the incident during the game was not a serious injury. Maclin is a starter for the Eagles entering regular season.
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. Heyward-Bey had one target for zero catches in the second preseason game. He saw three targets for 3/54/1 in the third exhibition game. Heyward-Bey made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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. He posted three targets for 2/15/1 receiving vs. Buffalo. He handled four targets for 2/24/0 receiving at Philadelphia in the third exhibition game. Wheaton is starting across from Antonio Brown as of Week 1.
Ex-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. He didn't make a catch in the third preseason game, either. Brown was waived/injured on August 30 and will likely get an injury settlement - he's done with being a Charger.
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. He led the team in receiving in the second preseason game with three targets for 2/30/0 receiving. On August 19 Floyd was called the MVP of training camp by local media, but he didn't catch a pass vs. San Francisco. Floyd is considered a starter for the Chargers as of Week 1.
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. Crabtree practiced fully on Friday, August 15 on the last day of training camp - after practice, Crabtree commented: "All I can do is do all I can do to get this receiver-quarterback connection the best it can be. I'm trying to go to the top. I'm trying to be one of the best out here." Crabtree garnered one target for zero receptions during the Levi's Stadium premiere (the second preseason contest). He saw one target for 1/10/0 in the third preseason game. Crabtree is a starter as of Week 1.
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. Jacobs is on I.R. as of Week 1. His season is over.
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. Lloyd saw two targets for 1/7/0 receiving in the second preseasong game, but didn't catch one in the third exhibition game. Lloyd made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
SF: 49ers Stevie 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. He saw two targets but didn't make a reception during the second preseason game. He saw one target for 1/5/0 receiving vs. San Diego. Johnson made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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. He handled three passes for 2/94/1 receiving at Cleveland on August 23. Givens made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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. Bailey made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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. He caught one pass for five yards in the second preseason game, but ended the day with an icepack on a sore shoulder - the severity of the injury isn't currently known, but appears to be a minor ding. Britt played in the third preseason game with two targets for 2/68/0 receiving. Britt is listed as a starter for the Rams as of Week 1.
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. Evans led the team in receiving during the second preseason game with 2/52/0 receiving out of two opportunities to catch the ball. He also led the team in receiving at Buffalo on August 23 with three targets for 3/44/1 receiving. Evans is a starter for Tampa entering Week 1.
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. He had two targets for 1/4/0 receiving in the second preseason tilt. He handled two targets for 2/2/0 at Buffalo on August 23. Herron made the final 53-man roster as a backup wide receiver.
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. He didn't catch a pass in the second preseason game. Garcon handled two passes for 2/4/0 receiving in the third preseason game. Garcon is a starter for Washington as of Week 1.
WAS: Leonard Hankerson ended 2013 on IR due to torn left LCL and ACL knee ligaments - he had corrective surgery on November 21 and was 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. Hankerson may be placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list, according to head coach Jay Gruden on August 14. Gruden added the team may keep Santana Moss for the first few weeks of the season while Hankerson would be 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. He finished the second preseason contest with four targets for 2/34/0 receiving. Jackson was targeted twice at Buffalo but didn't make a catch in the third exhibition. He is a starter for Washington as of Week 1.
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). Niklas did appear in the third exhibition game, with two targets for 1/-3/0 receiving. He made the final 53-man roster.
BAL: Owen Daniels was being counted on to play Saturday, August 23, against Washington. Daniels is experiencing fatigue in his legs that should be relieved over time, according to head coach John Harbaugh on August 18. However, Daniels didn't practice on Thursday, August 21 and missed the third exhibition on August 23. He did resume practicing on August 25. Daniels made the final 53-man roster.
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. He handled two targets for 1/16/0 receiving in the second exhibition game. In the third game vs. Washington Pitta was targeted four times for 2/16/0 receiving. Pitta is the starting tight end in Baltimore as of Week 1.
BUF: Scott Chandler reportedly looked uncomfortable during spring OTAs after having offseason knee surgery earlier this year. Also, Chandler suffered a groin injury on Sunday, July 27, to start out training camp with a new injury to worry about. Chandler appeared in the first preseason game at Carolina, but had zero receptions on one target. He saw six targets for 4/40/0 receiving in the second preseason contest vs. Pittsburgh. He handled four targets for 3/40/0 vs. Tampa Bay on August 23. Chandler is the starting tight end for Buffalo as of Week 1.
Ex-BUF: Tony Moeaki suffered a hamstring injury during the first week of training camp, and is reportedly out for 'awhile' (consider him week-to-week) as of July 26, 2014. Moeaki didn't see a pass in the first preseason game - he did resume practicing on August 5. Zero passes went Moeaki's way at Pittsburgh. He was placed on IR August 29, and the released off of injured reserve on September 1.
BUF: Lee Smith suffered a toe injury during the third preseason game vs. Tampa and didn't return to action. He did make the final 53-man roster as a backup tight end.
CIN: Tyler Eifert missed the second and third preseason games due to undisclosed reasons, but there is suspicion that his shoulder injury has flared up - Eifert did make the 53-man roster and he is listed as a co-#1 tight end along with Jermaine Gresham (the team has two tight end positions listed on their first-team depth chart).
CIN: Jermaine Gresham (hernia surgery spring 2014) was placed on the active/PUP list as of July 23 - he's considered week-to-week as he continues to rehabilitate from the surgery. Gresham also has a back issue that appears in various reports - he is not ready to practice as of late July. He was activated from the PUP list on August 4 and started practicing in training camp - he didn't catch a pass in the preseason opener. He handled two targets for 2/13/0 receiving in the second preseason contest vs. New York Jets. Gresham posted two targets for 1/33/0 receiving at Arizona during the third exhibition game. Gresham is seen as one of two starting tight ends as of Week 1.
CLE: Jordan Cameron (shoulder) is dealing with a shoulder injury, but it is not considered serious, according to head coach Mike Pettine on August 2. Cameron likely will not play in the first preseason game but probably would be able to play if it was a regular season game, according to head coach Mike Pettine. Pettine said Cameron has an issue with the AC joint in his shoulder. He returned to practices on August 11, wearing a red non-contact jersey. He saw three targets for zero receptions in the second preseason contest. Cameron was excused from practice on August 25, but it is unclear if his absence was related to the shoulder injury. Cameron caught two passes for 18 yards in the third preseason game. Cameron is the starting tight end as of Week 1.
DAL: Gavin Escobar (shoulder) was able to practice some this past week, and is hoping to play in the team's preseason game Saturday, August 23. Escobar is in extra padding to protect the injury. 'You can only contribute if you’re on the field, so that’s what I’ve got to do,' said Escobar on Friday, August 22. Escobar did not play in the third preseason game, however - the team is targeting week one of regular season for his return. Escobar is Jason Witten's backup entering regular season.
DEN: Julius Thomas sat out of Denvers' Saturday, August 2 scrimmage as a precaution due to a thigh bruise suffered in camp. He didn't make a catch in the preseason opener. Thomas was thrown three passes for 3/35/1 in the 34-0 rout of San Francisco August 17. He saw four targets for 4/32/0 receiving on August 23 vs. Houston. Thomas is the Broncos' starting tight end entering Week 1.
Ex-DEN: Gerell Robinson suffered a sprained knee during the second preseason game and will be sidelined for two weeks, Denver reported on August 18. He was waived on cut-down day.
GB: Brandon Bostick missed the majority of OTAs while he recovered from foot surgery. He's in a crowded field of tight ends as the Packers seek to replace the departed Jermichael Finley. Bostick caught one pass for 24 yards in the preseason opener at Tennessee. Bostick was sidelined with a lower leg injury in the first quarter of the preseason game in St. Louis week two of the preseason. He is expected to miss at least the regular season opener as of August 21 - further evaluations of the injury indicated that Bostick has a hairline fracture of his fibula. Bostick made the final 53-man roster as a backup tight end.
GB: Colt Lyerla hurt his leg trying to hurdle a defender at Family Night practice on Saturday, August 2. He was carted off the field and seen on crutches after the session - there is no definitive word on the severity of the injury as of August 3, but it could be a serious problem. Lyerla (knee injury) said on August 12 that a second opinion on his injured knee confirmed that he will likely miss the remainder of the preseason. Lyerla (knee) will likely be placed on Injured Reserve after he clears waivers, according to Lyerla's agent, Vinnie Porter, and August 20. 'So to put him on IR and give him a redshirt season is probably the best option for the whole situation,' Porter said. 'They've already put a decent amount of work into him. But it's a business and you never know what could happen.' Lyerla was cleared waivers and was placed on IR August 20. His 2014 season is over.
GB: Andrew Quarless sat out of the entire OTA program this past spring, but the reason for that move was undisclosed - it isn't clear if he was rehabbing an injury or not. He spoke after Family Night on Saturday, August 2, saying "I feel great, man, I'm thankful. My body felt really good. I'm just trying to get better and build a relationship with (No.) 12 (Aaron Rodgers)." Evidently the injury that bothered Quarless was a soft tissue injury in his leg, and not a complication from his knee surgery. He has practiced each day since the opening of training camp. Quarless had one target for zero receptions at Tennessee. He led the team in receiving at St. Louis with five targets for 4/58/0 receiving. He saw one target for 1/6/0 vs. Oakland in the third preseason game. Quarless is the backup tight end entering regular season.
IND: Dwayne Allen had hip surgery in early October, 2013. He stated in January of this year that the repair was more intensive than expected. As of April 24 he received full medical clearance and is set for OTAs/training camp. Reports on June 6 indicated that Allen is running at full speed at organized team activities. Colts' LB Erik Walden said Allen still had his burst and speed. As of July 10, tight ends coach Alfredo Roberts said Allen was like a 'brand new player' - his hip seems to be fully healed. Allen didn't catch the football in he first preseason game. Allen saw two targets for zero receptions in the second preseason game vs. the Giants. He handled three targets for 3/15/0 vs. New Orleans in the third exhibition game. Allen is considered a starting tight end as of Week 1.
JAX: Clay Harbor suffered a calf injury on July 28, and is out indefinitely (he's considered week-to-week as of July 29). On September 1 the team indicated that Harbor is out for the first regular season game, though he did make the final roster.
KC: Travis Kelce is reportedly progressing well after undergoing micro-fracture surgery on his knee last October. As of April 21, 2014 he was participating in the Chiefs' offseason conditioning program and appears set to participate in training camp. However, Kelce was not participating in practice Sunday, July 27 - it is unclear if the knee is the issue now, or some other undisclosed injury. After watching tape of the Chiefs' preseason opener, on August 9 coach Andy Reid mentioned second-year Kelce as a "standout" in the game. Kelce led the Chiefs in receiving at Carolina (four targets for 4/63/1 receiving). He also led the team in receiving vs. Minnesota with six targets for 4/49/0 receiving. Kelce is in the mix at tight end along with Anthony Fasano as of Week 1.
MIA: Charles Clay reportedly had a huge wrap on his right knee after leaving practice early Saturday, August 2. He missed practice on Monday, August 4 and is expected to miss several more days as a result of the injury - he didn't play in the first preseason game August 8. Clay returned to practice Monday, August 18 after missing the first two exhibition games. Clay participated in practices leading up to the third preseason game and appeared to be fine, according to local reports. He saw one target for 1/18/0 receiving in that third contest (August 23). Clay enters regular season as the starting tight end in Miami.
Ex-MIA Now-Ex-DET: Michael Egnew (concussion) sat out of the first preseason game on August 8. He is in the NFL concussion protocol. He had one target for 1/7/0 receiving in the second preseason game at Tampa Bay. Egnew was waived August 22 and then signed by Detroit on August 25. He was released by the Lions on August 30.
MIA: Gator Hoskins (hamstring injury) sat out of the first preseason game on August 8. He didn't see a pass in the second or third preseason contests. Hoskins made the final 53-man roster as a reserve tight end.
MIN: Kyle Rudolph fractured his left foot in week nine of the 2013 season, and was eventually placed on I.R. December 9, 2013. Rudolph has been running since February and as of April 15 is reported to be on track to fully participate in training camp. Rudolph received a five-year, $36.5 million extension on July 27 - reports on that extension indicated that Rudolph was fully healed fom the foot injury as of the start of training camp. He had one catch for 22 yards in the preseason opener vs. Oakland. He led the team in receiving vs. Arizona with five targets for 4/89/1 receiving. Rudolph is the starting tight end for Minnesota as of Week 1.
NE: Rob Gronkowski tore the ACL and MCL in his knee during Week 14 of the 2013 season, and had corrective surgery on January 9, 2014. As of April 29, Gronkowski was unwilling to project a time frame for his return to the field - his status for the start of the 2014 season is up in the air. Gronkowski worked out on the side of the field at practice Friday, May 30. When training camp opened Gronkowski was NOT on the active/PUP list and has reportedly been cleared to partially participate in training camp - his knee rehab must be proceeding very well. On July 27 he took part in 11-on-11 drills and was reportedly going about 75% speed. On Monday, August 4 Gronkowski sat out of a practice session to rest. As of August 10, Gronkowski has not been cleared for contact - he started team drills on August 11 in a red no-contact jersey. There are conflicting reports about Gronkowski's regular season week one availability - we aren't likely to see him in a game situation during preseason, according to speculations out of New England. A report on August 14 stated that Gronkowski is still favoring his right knee in practice, and he ran with a decent limp Thursday, August 14. Gronkowski did not play in the preseason game Friday, August 22, but he is targeting a return for the regular season opener. Reports out of ESPN on August 26 indicated that the recent trade for Tim Wright from Tampa Bay is not related to Gronkowski's health - Gronkowski has not suffered any setbacks that triggered the trade for Wright, according to the report. Local reports on September 1 indicate that Gronkowski is expected to play in Week One, although he may only be in for part of the offensive snaps (Gronkowski indicated he doesn't expect to play every snap. 'Getting my feet wet.' was his statement).
NFL: Free agent TE Jermichael Finley (neck surgery/rehab and concussion issues) has been given full medical clearance as of May 29, 2014 by his doctor, according to his agent, Blake Baratz. Finley has negotiated with several teams since his clearance.
NYJ: Jeff Cumberland has nursed a sore Achilles during the final weeks of August, and missed practice on August 21 - on August 24 it was reported that he is behind rookie Jace Amaro in passing packages (CUmberland will mainly block this year, it appears).
NYG: Adrien Robinson's weight is a big issue as of the start of training camp - he reported on July 24 at 276 lbs. and was as high as 290 earlier in the spring. Coach Coughlin is not amused and Robinson was listed as the #5 tight end on the depth chart July 24. As of August 10 he is still listed at the bottom of the tight end's depth chart. He led the Giants in receiving during the second preseason game, with four targets for 2/49/0 receiving. He had no catches in the third preseason game. Robinson did make the final 53-man roster as a backup tight end.
OAK: David Ausberry had a significant (but unspecified) shoulder injury in the second preseason game last August, and was sent to I.R. on September 23, 2013. He has been working with the first team at times during 2014 OTAs - but he seems to be behind Mychal Rivera entering training camp. On August 6, it was announced by head coach Dennis Allen that Ausberry will undergo knee surgery and miss the team's preseason opener Friday, August 8. The exact nature of Ausberry's injury has not been revealed. He was seen with a small wrap on his left knee Wednesday, August 12. Ausberry made the final 53-man roster as a backup tight end.
OAK: Nick Kasa (knee) suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in practice Wednesday, August 13, and will miss the 2014 season.
SEA: Anthony McCoy tore his left Achilles tendon in May of 2013 and spent the season on I.R. - Unfortunately, he reportedly tore the right Achilles tendon during practice on July 29 and is likely out for the 2014 season as well.
SF: Vance McDonald did not practice against the Ravens on Saturday, August 9. He has an undisclosed injury incurred during the first exhibition game August 7. He played in the second exhibition with one target for 1/9/0 receiving to his credit. He led the 49ers in receiving in the third preseason game with seven targets for 3/29/1 receiving. McDonald is the backup tight end as of Week 1.
TB: On July 28, head coach Lovie Smith said that Austin Seferian-Jenkins is 'behind a lot' due to the ongoing rehabilitation of his surgically-repaired foot and his absence from spring OTAs due to University of Washington's late graduation ceremonies. However, Sefarian-Jenkins has learned quickly and has been a star of training camp. He saw three targets for 2/29/0 receiving at Jacksonville in the first exhibition game. He snagged one catch for 14 yards on one target during the second preseason game. He handled one target for 1/11/0 at Buffalo during the third preseason game. Seferian-Jenkins is seen as in the mix to be starting for Tampa Bay as of Week 1. He is battling Brandon Myers and Luke Stocker for touches.
TEN: Craig Stevens sustained a concussion in Week 15 of the 2013 regular season - he should be fine for training camp, but once a player has sustained a concussion they become more susceptible to future brain traumas. Stevens didn't catch a pass in the first, second or third preseason games. Stevens made the final 53-man roster as a backup tight end.
WAS: Jordan Reed saw his 2013 campaign cut short due to concussion, but he was participating in mini-camp on May 3, 2014 and should be full-go in training camp this year. On June 5, Reed admitted to hiding a concussion he suffered two weeks before the second one that ended his season. 'I think I had had a concussion two weeks before, but I didn't tell nobody so when I took a shot to the side of my head against the Philadelphia Eagles it made it worse. I was in a bad spot for a long time. I didn't know if they would ever go away, but I'm past it now.' Unfortunately, once a player is concussed they are at heightened risk for future brain traumas. On August 9, Reed sat out of practice due to an illness. He's expected back in sessions "soon". Reed stood out as "one of the best offensive players on the field" during the Redskins-Patriots joint practices, according to reports on August 10. He handled two targets for 2/20/0 receiving vs. Cleveland on Monday Night Football. Reed is listed as the starting tight end for Washington as of Week 1.
Place Kickers
JAX: Jaguars PK Josh Scobee said on August 27 that he is not sure if will be able to play Week 1 because of his quadriceps injury. Scobee is listed as the top place kicker on the special teams' depth chart as of Week 1.
MIA: Caleb Sturgis is currently sidelined by a groin injury - he missed the first preseason game August 8, and also missed the second contest. The Dolphins signed John Potter to handle the Dolphins' kicking duties while Sturgis recovers. As of August 19 Sturgis is on the roster bubble as the groin injury continues to linger. He didn't play in the third exhibition game. He is listed as the top kicker on the special teams' depth chart as of September 1, 2014.
