Week 8 Essential NFL Practice News & Notes for Thursday

Oct 29, 2015

49ers QB Colin Kaepernick (right hand) practiced fully Wednesday. Kaepernick should be able to play against the Rams. He has been an erratic fantasy start this year.

Browns QB Johnny Manziel (right elbow) took full practice reps again Thursday. Manziel might get the chance to start if Josh McCown can’t play.

Titans QB Marcus Mariota (knee) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Mariota may be able to make his return this week, but at this point he says he’s “not sure” about his availability. The local media seems mixed about his chances of playing this week. The Titans play early on Sunday.

Browns QB Josh McCown (right shoulder, ribs) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. McCown is being called “day to day” so there is a chance that he’ll miss Week 8. The Browns play early on Sunday.

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday. We think he’s going to play. If he does, it’s a big boost for Antonio Brown, Martavis Bryant and Heath Miller. The full participation is a good sign. Owners can pencil him in for Sunday.

Chiefs QB Alex Smith (right thumb) took full practice reps again Thursday. Smith has a nice matchup with the Lions this week, and the probable return of Jeremy Maclin can only help. Consider him a Week 8 Sneaky Start.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford (quadricep) took full practice reps again Thursday. Stafford shouldn’t miss Week 8. He had X-rays on his hand, but apparently that’s no longer an issue.

Steelers QB Michael Vick (hamstring) missed practice Thursday after taking limited reps Wednesday.