NFL Player News

Patterson looks to continue the storied lineage of Irish linemen in the NFL. Having played both left guard and center in college, his position flex puts him over the top of some other prospects who can only play one of the two or even just one side. At 6'5”, Patterson utilizes his above-average height well to maintain hands on the defender. His reach allows some leeway in punch timing and he is generally fairly accurate. His body leverage may not always be in the right place due to his slow feet, but this can be ameliorated by his awareness of how to do just enough to facilitate the play. Even if he loses a defender, whether in space or in the phone booth, he is largely able to wall off the play and guide the defender away from risking blowing up the backfield. He will need to work on keeping his pad level low as well as loosening his feet from the mud. More than his performance on the field, what may be most impressive is the respect he earned from his teammates in South Bend. In 2022 he was named the team’s most outstanding offensive lineman over Joe Alt, who is projected to be a premier prospect in next year’s NFL Draft. Heady linemen like Patterson are perfect for spot duty and injury replacement as they will do what is necessary to contribute.

McBride popped up on the injury report with a knee issue Wednesday. He was able to practice in a limited capacity, indicating the issue is minor and that he should still be able to play Week 15. McBride has at least 12 targets in each of his last three games and stands as the top option in the passing game for Kyler Murray. Expect him to suit up barring setbacks as a fantasy TE1 against the Patriots.

Haslem told ESPN the Browns’ performance this season “is a little perplexing”. He expressed support for Berry and Stefanski, who both signed contract extensions in the offseason. Haslem also added that it is too early to make decisions on the quarterback position. Given that Berry and Stefanski just signed new contracts and went 11-6 in 2023, they are likely to stick around. However, the Browns could be evaluating new quarterback talent after disappointing seasons from Deshaun Watson, who is owed $92 million in guaranteed money over the next two years.

Burrow briefly exited the Bengals Week 14 game against the Cowboys to apply a sleeve to his left knee. He was able to return afterward and remained mobile in the pocket. Fantasy managers should not expect Burrow to miss time but he certainly managing a new issue.

Engram is already hampered by poor quarterback play. Adding a shoulder injury to the mix is rough. Little is known about the issue at this time so fantasy managers will want to monitor Engram’s practice participation closely. He is already toiling in the TE2 ranks as is.

The Eagles held an walkthrough practice Wednesday, so the injury report is an estimation. Hurts popped up with a left finger injury, but was still estimated to be a full participant, keeping him on track to play Week 15. With question marks surrounding his rapport with A.J. Brown and the passing game, Hurts’ passing abilities will be under extra scrutiny the rest of the season. The finger injury being on his non-throwing hand should not impact Hurts too much, and his rushing output keeps him in QB1 territory for Week 15.

Pickens was unable to practice on Wednesday, as expected. He appears highly unlikely to play after suffering a Grade 2 hamstring strain during Week 14’s practice week. Fantasy managers should monitor Pickens’ developments but fully prepare as though he will miss at least one more week.

Metcalf practiced in full just once last week (Friday) so his complete participation early this week signals improved health for the veteran field stretcher. Metcalf could have a big role in an expectedly high-scoring game against the Packers in Week 15.

Mike Macdonald is already telling reporters that Walker doesn’t necessarily need to practice in order to play and Walker’s injured calf required further testing earlier this week. While his malady could certainly improve, it currently looks as though Zach Charbonnet will handle another high-volume, dual-threat workload with Walker again sidelined in Week 15. No. 3 RB Kenny McIntosh is worth stashing in very deep leagues.

Shepard’s potential absence would consolidate the Buccaneers’ target tree in Week 15 so this is an injury for fantasy managers to monitor. The team’s upcoming game against the Chargers is likely to be a fantasy-friendly high-scoring affair. He would be WR4/5-viable if active.

Irving aggravated his combination hip and back injury in Week 14 and should be considered questionable to play in Week 15 against the Chargers. He is a highly volatile RB1/2 if active.