Quarterback Developments
Joe Burrow has been officially activated and is expected to start for the Bengals in Thursday night’s divisional matchup against the Ravens, per multiple reports. Burrow’s return marks a significant boost as Cincinnati continues its playoff push in a tightly contested AFC North.
In Minnesota, J.J. McCarthy remains in concussion protocol and is unlikely to suit up for Sunday’s road game against Seattle. Despite his absence, teammates Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones publicly voiced support for McCarthy’s long-term future as the Vikings’ starter, signaling organizational confidence in the rookie QB.
Meanwhile, Justin Fields expressed surprise at his benching by the Jets but maintains that he sees himself as a starting quarterback. Fields had taken over midseason but struggled to galvanize the offense. The Jets have yet to clarify their long-term plans, but Fields’ comments reflect ongoing uncertainty at the position for New York.
Injuries
Omarion Hampton of the Chargers revealed he has been playing through a left ankle fracture sustained in Week 5. Though he is hopeful to play this Sunday against the Raiders, Hampton states the final call lies with the medical staff. His availability will be key as Los Angeles fights to stay in AFC playoff contention.
The Lions’ final injury report ahead of their Thanksgiving Day game lists five players as out: Graham Glasgow (C), Kerby Joseph (S), Josh Paschal (DE), Kalif Raymond (WR), and Brock Wright (TE). Several more are questionable, including starters such as Taylor Decker (OL), Penei Sewell (OL), and Terrion Arnold (CB), potentially impacting both their offensive line stability and secondary depth against the Packers.
Return from Retirement
Frank Ragnow, the Pro Bowl center, has officially come out of retirement and was reinstated by the Lions before being placed on the Exempt/Commissioner Permission List. Though he is ineligible to play immediately, sources indicate his first potential return date is December 14 against the Rams. A symbolic morale boost to Detroit’s locker room, Ragnow’s return could provide valuable reinforcement down the stretch if he regains game shape in time for the playoff race.
Suspensions
Tre’von Moehrig will miss Sunday’s game against the Rams after his one-game suspension was upheld on appeal. The Raiders will be forced to adjust their secondary rotation in his absence as they try to remain relevant in the AFC Wild Card picture.
Contract News
Will Lutz has signed a three-year, $16.1 million extension with the Broncos, including $9 million guaranteed and a $5.2 million signing bonus. The deal places Lutz among the NFL’s highest-paid kickers and reflects Denver’s confidence in his performance this season.
Coaching News
Chris Shula, the Rams’ defensive coordinator, acknowledged growing speculation of him being a head coaching candidate. While stating that it’s a long-term goal, Shula emphasized loyalty to his current staff and commitment to the ongoing season. His rising profile aligns with the Rams defense’s strong performance in 2025 and marks him as a name to watch during the upcoming coaching carousel.
Historical Reflection
As this year’s Thanksgiving slate kicks off, Bears fans recall last year’s controversial late-game decision from head coach Matt Eberflus, who opted not to use his final timeout in a critical moment — a choice many believe cost Chicago the game. While not a current event, the recurrence of the discussion speaks to ongoing scrutiny of Eberflus’ clock management and situational decision-making.