There were more big injuries in Week 12. As always, injuries play a crucial role when it comes to constructing our fantasy lineups. Here’s the status of players with the most interest to the fantasy community:
Derek Carr, QB Raiders – Carr dislocated his finger against the Panthers. He missed one series then returned to the game to lead Oakland to a win. Carr said he doesn’t expect the injury to be an issue going forward. Carr is locked in as a QB1 this week against the Bills.
Jay Cutler, QB Bears – Cutler missed Sunday’s game against the Titans with a shoulder injury. He likely won’t play again this season, although he doesn’t need surgery at this time. Matt Barkley started on Sunday and will be under center again this week versus the 49ers.
Andrew Luck, QB Colts – Luck missed last Thursday’s game with a concussion. He was unable to get cleared with the Colts playing on a short week. Luck returned to practice Monday and he’s expected to play this week against the Jets.
Ryan Mathews, RB Eagles – Mathews was inactive Monday against the Packers. He’s dealing with an MCL sprain. Eagles coach Doug Pederson called the injury pretty significant and said it could linger. Wendell Smallwood got the start Monday night. He’ll continue to be the lead back while Mathews is out with Darren Sproles playing on passing downs.
Stefon Diggs, WR Vikings – Diggs missed Thursday’s game against the Lions with a knee injury. He returned to a limited practice on Monday. The Vikings are expecting to have him back this week against the Cowboys. Minnesota plays on Thursday again, so Diggs will have another short week to get ready.
A.J. Green, WR Bengals – Green missed Week 12 with a hamstring injury. The Bengals remain hopeful that Green can return at some point this season but Marvin Lewis already said it’s unlikely he’ll play against the Eagles Sunday. Tyler Boyd was targeted nine times versus the Ravens. He’ll continue to pick up the slack with Green out.
T.Y. Hilton, WR Colts – Hilton left Thursday’s game against the Steelers and didn’t return. He missed Monday’s practice but Colts coach Chuck Pagano is optimistic that Hilton will be able to play against the Jets. The Colts don’t play until Monday this week, so Hilton gets an extra day to get healthy. If he can’t go, Phillip Dorsett will see more snaps opposite Donte Moncrief.
Jeremy Maclin, WR Chiefs – Maclin missed his third straight game against the Broncos with a groin injury. He’s considered week-to-week. Rookie Tyreek Hill has emerged as the Chiefs No. 1 receiver in his absence.
DeVante Parker, WR Dolphins – Parker injured his back in the third quarter of Sunday’s win over the 49ers. He’s considered day-to-day. Parker is expected to play this week against the Ravens but if he can’t go, Kenny Stills will see more targets.
Tyrell Williams, WR Chargers – Williams injured his shoulder late in Sunday’s win over the Texans. Chargers coach Mike McCoy said Williams is a little sore but he should be good for this week’s game against the Buccaneers. If Williams can’t play, Dontrelle Inman would take over as Philip Rivers’ No. 1 option.
Rob Gronkowski, TE Patriots – Gronkowski injured his back in the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the Jets. He was seen moving gingerly after the game. The injury isn’t believed to be serious but the Patriots won’t take any chances with Gronk. He’s questionable to face the Rams on Sunday. Martellus Bennett will draw the start if Gronkowski can’t go.
Jordan Reed, TE Redskins – Reed separated the AC joint in his shoulder last Thursday. It’s been reported that Reed could miss time. Reed said he has no idea if he’ll be ready for Sunday’s game against Arizona. Vernon Davis will start if Reed isn’t healthy.
