Injuries
Joe Burrow completed his first full practice since suffering a calf injury earlier this season, and the Bengals have officially listed him as a full participant. The development clears a potential path for Burrow to return to the lineup in Week 12 against the Patriots. His presence could provide a much-needed boost for a Cincinnati team still in the AFC playoff race.
Kris Boyd, cornerback for the New York Jets, has been upgraded to stable condition days after being shot in Manhattan. Boyd posted on Instagram that he is “starting to breathe on [his] own,” indicating continued recovery. The shooting remains under investigation, and his football status is understandably secondary at this time.
Transaction News
The San Francisco 49ers are signing veteran kicker Matt Gay after conducting multiple workouts at the position, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Gay, who was released earlier this week by Washington, will now join his third team this season in a critical special teams addition as the 49ers gear up for the playoff stretch.
The Las Vegas Raiders have activated quarterback Aidan O’Connell from the Reserve/Injured list. O’Connell, who had been sidelined with a rib injury, adds depth to the QB room heading into Week 12, though the starting role remains held by veteran Gardner Minshew for now.
Buffalo Bills rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman is expected to be benched for the second consecutive week, per multiple local reports. The decision signals ongoing concerns from the coaching staff about consistency and preparation, as the Bills face mounting pressure to stabilize their offense ahead of a key matchup with the Texans.
Quarterback Updates
In Chicago, top overall pick Caleb Williams is focusing on correcting accuracy issues as the Bears prepare to face the Steelers in Week 12. Williams has acknowledged timing breakdowns in his recent performances but remains confident ahead of a marquee matchup against veteran Aaron Rodgers.
Drake Maye dismissed recent skepticism from former NFL MVP Cam Newton, who questioned Maye’s readiness as a pro starter. The Patriots’ rookie quarterback responded that he didn’t even “know what show he’s on,” emphasizing that his focus remains on internal development and upcoming opponents.
Team Performance Trends
Concerns continue to build around the Kansas City Chiefs, with analysts noting that “not everything is clicking” for the reigning Super Bowl champions. Despite maintaining a top record in the AFC West, the Chiefs have struggled with offensive rhythm, raising questions as they prepare for a potentially tricky contest against the Colts in Week 12.
The Dallas Cowboys, meanwhile, are eyeing a return to a previous successful formula as they get ready to face NFC East rivals the Philadelphia Eagles. Analysts argue that an early lead is essential for the Cowboys to avoid relying too heavily on late-game heroics against a high-powered Eagles offense.
Honors & Recognitions
Retired Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald will be honored during the Week 12 Sunday Night Football matchup between the Rams and Buccaneers. Donald, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and future Hall of Famer, will be recognized for his dominant career with the Rams, having officially stepped away from the game earlier this year.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young and Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan have been named Air & Ground Players of the Week following standout performances in Week 11. Young earns his first such recognition of the season as he continues showing growth in his second year.