NFL Player News

The Packers have an opening on their 53-man roster, and their decision not to fill it at this time generated some speculation on Thursday. The team designated Lloyd for return on Wednesday, meaning he can be activated to the 53-man roster whenever they deem fit. We’re still a few days removed from the Packers having to decide on what to do with Lloyd this week, but LaFleur’s response suggests he could be activated ahead of Sunday’s game against the Bears.

Palmer has been a no-go for the first two practice sessions while dealing with his foot/heel injury. The man they call Big Palm seems to be on the wrong side of the questionable tag ahead of Week 18 against the Raiders in a game that only has (relatively) minor implications for Los Angeles.

Edwards has missed both practices this week ahead of the Week 18 finale against the Raiders. It’s possible the 29-year-old could be able to go Sunday if he gets in a limited session, but it’s just as likely Edwards doesn’t play until the playoff game against either the Texans, Ravens or Steelers.

That’s an upgrade from not being able to practice during Wednesday’s session. McConkey is likely getting maintenance before the Week 18 finale against the Raiders, but with only seeding involved, the Chargers may play it cautious with the star rookie for the finale. Keep a close eye on the situation.

Jones is dealing with a quad contusion, and he has now been limited in back-to-back practices after not playing much in the Week 17 win over the Packers during the second half. The 30-year-old tailback appears likely to play in a massive game in Week 18 against the Lions.

Goedert was just recently designated to return from injured reserve from his knee injury, and while it might make more sense for Eagles to keep the tight end out in a meaningless game against the Giants, they may want to give the 29-year-old a soft landing spot. If he did play, he’d be one of the few reliable targets expected to play in what will likely be a start by Tanner McKee in the finale.

Smith and a host of other other Eagles didn’t participate in Thursday’s practice, but it’s worth noting that Philadelphia also gave an injury designation on top of the wrist tag. With the Eagles expected to not play their key players in Week 18 against the Giants, Smith appears to be getting a week off before their playoff run begins.

Brown missed a second-consecutive practice, and while he’s gotten rest early in several weeks prior to playing in games this year, this one is obviously difference with the Eagles having absolutely nothing to play for in Week 18 against the Giants. He still could play with coach Nick Sirianni not making final decisions, but fantasy managers should operate as if Brown won’t be playing in that finale.

No surprise here. Hurts and Kenny Pickett (ribs) were both unable to practice again Thursday, and it seems likely that Hurts will be out with Pickett more of a game-time call for a game that has no significance for the Eagles against the Giants in Week 18. It seems likely that Hurts will be able to go in the playoff bout against either the Packers or Commanders, however.

Okonkwo’ injury appears to be a new one, as he wasn’t listed during Wednesday’s practice. For now it appears likely the 25-year-old will play, but fantasy players planning on starting Okonkwo will want to pay close attention to Thursday’s injury report.

Pollard has not been able to get a full practice in thus far, but the good news is he’s been able to get in two limited sessions. The same cannot be said for Tyjae Spears, as he hasn’t been able to clear the concussion protocol. If Pollard can go, he’ll be a RB2 against the Texans in Week 18.