Quarterback Developments
Joe Burrow returned to practice this week, providing a boost of optimism for the Cincinnati Bengals as they prepare for the final stretch of the season. The star quarterback has missed time with a wrist injury, and his participation in practice suggests potential availability in the near term, which could significantly impact the AFC playoff picture.
The New York Giants are urging rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart to adjust his running style to reduce injury risk. According to team sources, coaches have emphasized smarter decision-making when escaping the pocket and avoiding unnecessary contact, hoping to preserve Dart’s health and longevity in the league.
Injuries
The Detroit Lions placed tight end Sam LaPorta on injured reserve due to a back issue, ruling him out for a minimum of four games. LaPorta had been a key target in Detroit’s passing game, and his absence is a notable blow to the offense heading into a crucial part of the season.
J.K. Dobbins of the Denver Broncos is being placed on injured reserve and is expected to miss the remainder of the season following a foot injury that will require surgery. Dobbins, who was fifth in the NFL in rushing yards at the time of the injury, sustained the issue on a hip-drop tackle Thursday night. Although one source suggested a potential return if Denver reaches the Super Bowl, his season is effectively over.
New England Patriots defensive tackle Milton Williams also heads to IR with a high ankle sprain. He’s expected to be out for at least four games, impacting a Patriots defense already dealing with injuries.
On the return front, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and rookie receiver Ricky Pearsall are set to come back in Week 11 after missing time with undisclosed injuries. Their reactivation could help San Francisco’s offense regain momentum. Meanwhile, Cowboys linebacker DeMarvion Overshown was removed from the injury report and is expected to make his season debut Monday night against the Raiders.
Drake London (back/illness) of the Atlanta Falcons and Calvin Ridley (hamstring) of the Tennessee Titans are both listed as questionable but are expected to play in their respective Sunday matchups. These returns would bolster each team’s receiving corps.
Detroit will be significantly short-handed against Philadelphia, with Marcus Davenport, D.J. Reed, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Miles Frazier all downgraded to out. Additionally, wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa is now questionable due to an oblique injury.
Disciplinary Actions
The NFL has issued fines to multiple players for on-field altercations. The league fined Amon-Ra St. Brown $12,172 for unnecessary roughness after hitting Daron Payne in the facemask. Payne retaliated, earning an ejection and a one-game suspension. This incident highlights the ongoing disciplinary focus on player conduct and retaliation in high-emotion moments.
Additionally, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been fined for a “dirty hit” on Justin Herbert during last week’s matchup against the Chargers. The league did not disclose the exact amount or player involved, but reiterated its stance against unnecessary and dangerous contact, particularly against quarterbacks.
Player Usage and Roster Decisions
The Jacksonville Jaguars plan to continue utilizing Travis Hunter in a two-way role for the 2026 season. After a successful trial earlier this year, Hunter will play both cornerback and wide receiver, emphasizing the team’s commitment to his unique versatility.
In Buffalo, rookie receiver Keon Coleman will be a healthy scratch ahead of Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers. While no injury is reported, this move suggests a shift in the Bills’ receiver rotation or possibly performance concerns.
Milestones
Mark Andrews is on the verge of achieving two major franchise records for the Baltimore Ravens. He needs just four more receiving yards to surpass Derrick Mason as the Ravens’ all-time leading receiver and seven more receptions to eclipse Mason’s franchise-best mark of 471 catches. Andrews could make history as soon as Sunday’s game in Cleveland.
Labor and Union News
Former Steelers linebacker James Harrison has expressed interest in becoming the next Executive Director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). The position is set to become vacant, and Harrison’s potential candidacy brings a high-profile, player-centric perspective to the role. The NFLPA has yet to comment on his formal involvement in the process.
Team Branding
The Los Angeles Rams will unveil their new “Midnight Mode” Rivalries uniforms in Sunday’s NFC West clash against the Seattle Seahawks. The team stated the uniforms are intended to enhance their rivalry week branding while offering a fresh look for fans and players alike.