NFL Player News

The former first-round linebacker heads into the final season of his rookie contract potentially playing for his next deal. Collins was once a fixture in the Cardinals’ defense but saw his snap rate almost cut in half in 2023, the first season with head coach Jonathan Gannon and his unique 3-4, shallow two-high scheme. Collins’ potential departure after the 2024 season could open up additional snaps for 2023 second-round linebacker BJ Ojulari.

Spears sat out Wednesday but practiced in full on Thursday and Friday. His questionable status suggests he may still need to clear the concussion protocol’s fifth and final phase. Spears is an RB5, if active. Starter Tony Pollard will likely continue hoarding touches on early downs.

Smith was held out of Wednesday’s practice but returned for two limited sessions before being listed as questionable. He told reports on Friday that he still didn’t know if he would be able to suit up this week, making him a true game-time call heading into Sunday. If active, Smith will be a high-ceiling WR2 for a potential shootout with the Ravens.

Ridley rested on Wednesday before practicing in full on Thursday and Friday. The Titans’ No. 1 WR has efficiently averaged 2.59 yards per route run and a 24.7 percent target rate since DeAndre Hopkins became a Chief. Fantasy managers can count on Ridley as a high-end WR2 with WR1 upside in a potential Week 13 shootout.

Lattimore returned to practice this week with three limited sessions. The Commanders acquired him for a late-season push and don’t want to rush him back too quickly, so he will get another week off before eyeing a Week 15 return after the team’s upcoming bye week.

Robinson exited Week 12 with a seemingly significant ankle issue. He was listed as questionable to return and was back on the field in no time, only to sit out of the second half entirely. The fact that he was upgraded to a full practice on Friday and didn’t even receive a token questionable designation suggests it was somehow a minor injury. With Austin Ekeler out, Robinson remains a touchdown-based RB2 for Week 13.

Douglas was limited in all three practices this week. His continued participation suggests the team is effectively managing the issue but it’s possible his post-catch abilities are mildly limited on game day. Douglas has finished between WR31-WR40 in four straight games and he must now face the Colts’ best DB, slot CB Kenny Moore II while playing through an injury.

Ekeler remains in the early steps of the league’s concussion protocol after failing to practice in any capacity this week. Brian Robinson was removed from the injury report entirely, putting him in position to split the backfield with Jeremy McNichols. Robinson should see the bulk of the early-down work, keeping him on the RB2 periphery for Week 13.

Demercado has been splitting the RB2 role with rookie Trey Benson, though the latter has pulled ahead in recent weeks. Benson could see a few extra carries if Demercado doesn’t suit up this week. The rookie is worth a stash in deeper leagues.

Robinson was activated from injured reserve a month ago but has yet to make his NFL debut. The first-round pick suffered a calf injury just before the start of the season. Head coach Jonathan Gannon said earlier this week that Robinson is “on track” to make his debut on Sunday.

The Bills’ 2024 third-round pick practiced in full all week so he appears to have strong odds of returning for Week 13. The Bills’ defense is on the upswing with LB Matt Milano (triceps) also nearing a return.