November 2013 4for4 Player News Articles

SAINTS

QUESTIONABLE
LB Keyunta Dawson (calf), DE Glenn Foster (knee)

PROBABLE
CB Chris Carr (hip, hamstring), G Jahri Evans (ankle), RB Darren Sproles (ankle)

SEAHAWKS

OUT
CB Brandon Browner (groin)

DOUBTFUL
WR Percy Harvin (hip)

PROBABLE
WR Jermaine Kearse (concussion), RB Marshawn Lynch (knee)

Harvin's hip injury flared up and he is now doubtful for Monday. He is a risky play to begin with in what is not a great matchup, plus coming back from injury. However, now you pretty much need to take him out of your lineup and go another direction this week. Lynch was listed as 'limited' for Thursday's practice, but the Seahawks actually didn't practice that day so it's an estimation. Lynch is probable and appears to be a go on Monday night after practicing fully on Friday and Saturday.

For the Saints, Sproles was a full participant Thursday through Saturday in practice and is listed as probable. It's obviously a tough matchup for Sproles on the road in Seattle, who has been more of a boom or bust this season.

Source: Seahawks WR Percy Harvin's surgically repaired hip flared up again. He's seeing doctors today, but his status for MNF is in doubt.

We should have his official status from the team when the injury report comes out shorty, but for now Harvin's status doesn't look good for this week. He has tough matchups from now until the end of the season and this setback really makes him a risky play for upcoming fantasy playoffs. ROS matchups are: Week 14 49ers (10th), Week 15 NY Giants (6th), Week 16 Cards (14th) and Week 17 Rams (17th).

New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Aaron Dobson was ruled out of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans with a foot injury.

Details surrounding the injury, which kept him off the field during the second half of last week's game against the Denver Broncos, remained scant throughout the week. But according to a source, Dobson sprained his foot and the Patriots are being cautious with the injury.

Dobson's status for next week's game against Cleveland is undetermined as of now. After an uneven start to the season, Dobson came on in recent weeks and currently has 35 catches for 492 yards and four touchdowns. When he went down against the Broncos, Kenbrell Thompkins took over at receiver and will likely see increased snaps again this week.

Chargers have downgraded WR Eddie Royal (toe, chest) to doubtful for Sunday's game vs. Bengals. Originally listed as questionable.

Royal is usually a risky play but it looks like he might not go this week. While Seyi Ajirotutu will fill in for Royal and be equally risky, this very well could end up meaning TE Ladarius Green will get more targets.

Antonio Gates missed five of 72 offensive snaps Sunday.

The way his hamstring felt, it could have been more.

The Chargers tight end was back on the field Friday, present at an all-important practice after missing the previous two days. He was a full participant and is listed as probable to face the Bengals on Sunday, but the hamstring ailment is not a small, sweep-under-the-rug matter.

Hamstring injuries never are.

"It's tricky," Gates said Friday. "It's different. It's one of those injuries where you can't fully grasp whether or not you can do something because it's all running. Everything is based off running and power and holding off people on blocks, and the hamstring is a big part of that. Without the lower body, you couldn't play in this league. I'll see how it goes. I'm going to attack this rehab. I've got two more days. That's the best part about it.

Gates said if he had to play Friday, he wasn't sure he would have been able to go. But a couple more days will definitely help Gates leading up to Sunday's game. If he can't go, emerging star Ladarius Green would likely get a major bump up our TE rankings.

Raiders coach Dennis Allen said he is inclined to stick with Matt McGloin at quarterback for now, without signing off on McGloin for final 4 games.

The Raiders have some packages for Terrelle Pryor even if McGloin starts. Seems like the team would like to get as much info as they can on these guys for the future, but it looks like McGloin could start at least in Week 14.

Jim Schwartz gave embattled kicker David Akers a public vote of confidence after he missed his fifth kick of the season in Thursday’s 40-10 win over the Green Bay Packers, but the Detroit Lions are planning to work out kickers next week as they weigh their options at the position.

Akers, who signed a one-year deal to replace long-time kicker Jason Hanson in April, has made just 15 of 20 field-goal attempts this year and the Lions rank 29th in the league in field-goal percentage.

Akers missed a 31-yarder on Thanksgiving against the Packers and is coming off a shaky season with the 49ers, so the Lions have to play this one smart as the playoffs drawn near. Akers is safe - for now.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Brady has thrown for 1,072 yards and eight TDs in his last three games and has a so-so matchup (indoors) against the Texans. He’s a strong QB1 this week.

Broncos QB Peyton Manning (ankle, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 13. Manning is fully expected to play against the Chiefs this week.

Cardinals QB Carson Palmer (right hand, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Palmer has thrown two TDs in four straight games, and is averaging 325 yards since his team’s Week 9 bye. This week he faces an Eagles pass defense that is #24 in QB aFPA.

Browns QB Jason Campbell (concussion, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13. Brandon Weeden will start in a nice matchup with the Jaguars, who seem to be playing better defense of late. His return may signal good things for Jordan Cameron, who hasn’t been able to get on the same page as Jason Campbell.

Bears QB Jay Cutler (ankle, out) has been ruled out for Week 13. In approximately 16 quarters of play this season, Josh McCown is averaging 69 yards and 0.44 TD, which extrapolates to 276 yards and 1.8 TD over a full, four-quarter game. Last week, he threw for 352 yards and two TDs against a surging Rams defense. This week he faces the Vikings, who are last in the league in QB aFPA.

Texans QB Matt Schaub (not injury related, probable) returned to take full practice reps Friday after missing practice Thursday and is probable for Week 13. Case Keenum will continue to start for the Texans.

Bears RB Matt Forte (knee, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Forte is good to go for a great matchup against the Vikings.

Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno (ankle, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Moreno looks like he’s good to go for Week 13. The Chiefs are #21 in RB aFPA, so consider Moreno a high-end RB2 with minor injury/workload concerns.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (groin, probable) took full practice reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Peterson showed no ill-effects as he ran roughshod through the Packer defense. He should be a great start against the Bears, who are having problems against the run. Even backup Toby Gerhart is a Sneaky Start given the Bears struggles against the run.

Cardinals RB Andre Ellington (knee, questionable) missed practice Friday after taking limited reps Thursday and is questionable for Week 13. It sounds as if Ellington is in danger of missing Sunday's game against the Eagles. Rashard Mendenhall would get a big bump if Ellington can't play. The Cardinals play in the early round of games on Sunday.

Rams RB Zac Stacy (concussion, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Stacy has a tough matchup with the 49ers, who are 8th in RB aFPA. Since Week 5, Stacy is the #7 RB in fantasy.

49ers RB Frank Gore (ankle, probable) took limited practice reps again Thursday and is probable for Week 13. No worries here. Gore has a terrific matchup against the Rams, who are #32 in RB aFPA.

Jets RB Chris Ivory (ankle, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Ivory will play in a great matchup with the Dolphins. Bilal Powell’s sleeper status is diminished with Ivory likely active.

Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. It looks like Mathews will play after re-injuring his hamstring last week. He’s a shaky start due to the injury and the presence of Danny Woodhead and Ronnie Brown, who are both capable of carrying the rock.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13. Peyton Hillis may be active as the primary backup for Andre Brown, who is sure to get a big workload against the Redskins.

Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (not injury related) was removed from the injury report Friday after taking full practice reps Thursday. MJD is good to go in a so-so matchup against the Browns.

Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch (knee) took limited practice reps Thursday. Lynch plays on Monday night, but there’s no indication that his in any danger of missing a big game against the Saints.

Saints RB Darren Sproles (ankle) took full practice reps again Friday. Sproles should be good to go for a big game against the Seahawks, but his usage has been wildly inconsistent this season. Consider him a high-upside RB3/flex type this week.

Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart (ankle, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 13. With DeAngelo Williams and Mike Tolbert both hobbled (and also questionable), Stewart may be the healthiest RB in the Panthers’ backfield at this point. As a result, he may get true RB1-type touches this week.

Texans RB Ben Tate (ribs, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Tate should be fine for the Patriots, but just how entrenched he is as the team’s RB1 remains to be seen. Dennis Johnson out-touched him last week.

Dolphins RB Daniel Thomas (ankle, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13. Lamar Miller should get workhorse-type touches, but has a terrible matchup against the Jets (and the Dolphins’ O-line is in trouble).

Panthers RB Mike Tolbert (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 13. Tolbert should play, but he’s not 100 percent and his touches may be impacted by his health.

Patriots RB Shane Vereen (wrist, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Vereen is ready to go for a big role as the pass-catching RB in the Patriots offense.

Panthers RB DeAngelo Williams (thigh, questionable) missed practice all week and is questionable for Week 13. The severity of Williams’ quad injury is unknown, though he’s looking very iffy for Sunday’s game. Oddly enough, Jonathan Stewart may be the healthiest RB in the Panthers’ backfield at this point, and he may get true RB1-type touches this week.

Vikings RB Matt Asiata (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Jaguars RB Justin Forsett (foot, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13.

Colts RB Stanley Havili (concussion, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Browns RB Willis McGahee (knee, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13.

Chiefs RB Anthony Sherman (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Cardinals RB Alfonso Smith (ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Dolphins RB Marcus Thigpen (wrist, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Redskins RB Darrel Young (hamstring, questionable) returned to take limited reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is questionable for Week 13.

Seahawks WR Percy Harvin (hip) missed practice Thursday. Harvin is probably just getting some rest, but we’ll update his status on Saturday when the injury report for Monday Night Football is released.

Bears WR Brandon Marshall (quadricep, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Marshall will be fine for a great matchup with the Vikings.

Cardinals WR Michael Floyd (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Floyd has 297 yards and a TD in the last two weeks and is a strong start against a shaky Eagles pass defense.

Jaguars WR Cecil Shorts (groin, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Shorts is fully expected to play in a bad matchup against Joe Haden and the Browns.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (abdomen, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Despite being listed as probable, Nicks apparently didn’t play in Week 12 because he didn’t practice enough. That shouldn’t be a problem this week, though he isn’t a good fantasy option given his performance this season.

Broncos WR Wes Welker (ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. No worries here.

Titans WR Kendall Wright (ankle, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 13. Wright has been a sneaky good start for the entire season and that shouldn’t change in Week 13 against the Colts.

Patriots WR Danny Amendola (groin, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Amendola is good to go, but his role isn’t as concrete as thought. Julian Edelman saw more targets in Week 12.
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Patriots WR Aaron Dobson (foot, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13. Kenbrell Thompkins will see increased snaps in his place.

Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 13. Hilton will be fine for a tough matchup with the Titans, who are #1 in WR aFPA.

Bills WR Steve Johnson (groin, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Johnson is expected to make his return against a sketchy Falcons pass defense.

Panthers WR Steve L Smith (knee, probable) returned to take full practice reps Friday after missing practice Thursday and is probable for Week 13. Smith may face Darrelle Revis this week, but Revis is a game-time decision with a groin injury.

49ers WR Mario Manningham (knee, probable) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice and is probable for Week 13. Manningham should play, but with Michael Crabtree due to return, Manningham’s snaps will be under pressure.

Jets WR Santonio Holmes (foot, hamstring, questionable) missed practice again Friday and is questionable for Week 13. Holmes will be a game-time decision for a tough matchup with the Dolphins.

Titans WR Damian Williams (hip, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13. Justin Hunter should continue to see significant snaps with Williams sidelined.

Bills WR Robert Woods (ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13. Woods should fare better now that E.J. Manuel is back under center. He averaged 53 yards and 0.4 TD in the first five games of the season (before Manuel got hurt).

Jaguars WR Mike Brown (shoulder, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. It appears that Brown will return this week against the Browns.

Jets WR Jeremy Kerley (elbow, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. Kerley may be able to return to face the Dolphins, but he isn’t on the fantasy radar right now.

Jaguars WR Stephen Burton (concussion, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13.

Browns WR Josh Cooper (illness, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 13.

Chargers WR Seyi Ajirotutu (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Jets WR Stephen Hill (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Seahawks WR Jermaine Kearse (concussion) took full practice reps Thursday.

Dolphins WR Rishard Matthews (back, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13.

Dolphins WR Marlon Moore (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

49ers WR Quinton Patton (foot, questionable) took limited practice reps again Thursday and is questionable for Week 13.

Chargers WR Eddie Royal (toe, chest, questionable) missed practice all week and is questionable for Week 13.

Jets WR Greg Salas (finger, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Patriots WR Matt Slater (wrist, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 13.

Bengals WR Brandon Tate (ankle, probable) missed practice Friday and is probable for Week 13.

Vikings WR Joe Webb (concussion, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13.

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (back, forearm, hamstring, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. Gronkowski is fully expected to play against the Texans.

Redskins TE Jordan Reed (concussion, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. It looks like Reed will make it back for Week 13. Consider him a solid TE1 if he can play.

Broncos TE Julius Thomas (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. Thomas is expected to play against the Chiefs and is back in the saddle as a top 5 TE option.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is probable for Week 13. Gates is fully expected to play against the Bengals.

Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez (toe, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13. Gonzo will play through the injury but the matchup with the Bills isn’t favorable.

Broncos TE Joel Dreessen (knee, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 13.

49ers TE Garrett Celek (hamstring, questionable) missed practice again Thursday and is questionable for Week 13.

Browns TE MarQueis Gray (hamstring, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 13.

Panthers TE Ben Hartsock (knee, doubtful) missed practice again Friday and is doubtful for Week 13.

Patriots TE Michael Hoomanawanui (knee, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13.

Redskins TE Niles Paul (illness, questionable) missed practice all week and is questionable for Week 13.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph (foot, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13.

Titans TE Craig Stevens (concussion, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 13.

Jets TE Kellen Winslow (knee, probable) returned to take limited reps Friday after missing practice Thursday and is probable for Week 13.

Bears K Robbie Gould (illness, probable) missed practice Friday and is probable for Week 13.

Cardinals RB Kent Somers: "Saw RB Andre Ellington this morning had knee wrapped, says hopeful of playing Sunday. We'll see."

It sounds as if Ellington is in danger of missing Sunday's game against the Eagles. Rashard Mendenhall would get a big bump if Ellington can't play. The Cardinals play in the early round of games on Sunday.

Ravens Inactives
Omar Brown DB
Ryan Jensen C
Bernard Scott RB
John Simon LB
Deonte Thompson WR
Brynden Trawick DB
Brandon Williams DT

Steelers Inactives
Richard Gordon TE
Landry Jones QB
Steve McLendon NT
Derek Moye WR
Stevenson Sylvester LB
DeMarcus Van Dyke DB
LaMarr Woodley OLB

Cowboys Inactives
Morris Claiborne CB
Justin Durant OLB
Jakar Hamilton DB
Dwayne Harris WR
DeVonte Holloman OLB
Sean Lee MLB
Darrion Weems T

Raiders Inactives
Tyvon Branch S
Brice Butler WR
Jason Hunter DE
Lamar Mady OG
Denarius Moore WR
Brian Sanford DE
Jared Veldheer T
Menelik Watson OT

Andre Holmes will start with Moore out.

Packers Inactives
Brandon Bostick TE
Chris Harper WR
Jamari Lattimore ILB
Nate Palmer OLB
Aaron Rodgers QB
C.J. Wilson DE
Jerel Worthy DE

Matt Flynn draws the start at QB.

Lions Inactives
Rodney Austin G
Leroy Harris C
Corey Hilliard T
Chris Houston CB
Mikel Leshoure RB
Kellen Moore QB
Micheal Spurlock WR

Calvin Johnson is active as expected.

The weekend off did a lot of good for a lot of Bills, and that included Bills feature back C.J. Spiller, who has been trying to clear the final hurdle with a high ankle sprain since the first month of the season.

“I feel good,” said Spiller Wednesday. “I definitely feel like I’m getting back to my old self, making the cuts, making that explosion, so just looking forward to seeing how Sunday goes.

When asked to say how close to 100 percent he feels Spiller declined getting into numbers.

“I can’t give percentages,” he said. “I was commanded by my chief not to give percentages anymore, so I’ll just tell you guys that I feel good and I’m ready to rock and roll come Sunday.”

He has had two weeks to heal and has a terrific matchup with the Falcons who recently got torched by Bobby Rainey and Marshawn Lynch. The Bills still have issues with their offensive line, but that may not matter much this week.

Broncos interim coach Jack Del Rio said Wednesday he was hopeful RB Knowshon Moreno would return to practice this week and be available for at least some of Sunday's road game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Both teams are 9-2 and tied for first in the AFC West.

"He didn't go today,'' Del Rio said. "I felt pretty good about the report I got back. We'll just see how the week goes.''

Montee Ball is expected to get the start if Moreno doesn't play and took snaps with the first team Wednesday. But the Broncos would likely use all three of the remaining backs on the roster -- Ball, C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman -- in a rotation if Moreno doesn't play. All three have struggled at times with ball security this season, with Ball having lost three fumbles.

A rotation with Anderson and Hillman would limit Ball's upside in the event that Moreno sits. If Moreno does play, it sounds as if the Broncos are prepared to give Ball a significant share of the carries as a backup despite his ball security issues.

Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew is apparently entering a new phase of his career in which he doesn’t get virtually all the carries.

He had 14 carries Sunday and six receptions, and Jordan Todman had 11 carries.

That pattern will apparently continue because offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch said, “I think that would be a really good setup for us.”

Although he said it was difficult, Jones-Drew said, “In the fourth quarter, I was fresher than I’ve ever been. It worked out well, and we got the victory and will continue on that path.”

MJD had 144 total yards on 20 touches, but things won't always be as easy as they were against the Texans. It's not good for Jones-Drew's fantasy prospects that Todman is cutting into his touches, though if he continues to see a big role in the passing game, it will help to offset the reduction in carries.

“If there are no setbacks, he should be OK,” Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said of TE Jordan Reed (head).

Giants HC Tom Coughlin did not say if Hakeem Nicks’ injury has shown much improvement. “Hopefully we're going to see," Coughlin said. "That's why he's going to practice. Hopefully he will."

Coughlin had said Nicks didn’t play against the Cowboys because of how much practice time he missed last week. So if nothing else, at least he’s giving himself a chance to play this Sunday against the Redskins.

The weekend off did a lot of good for a lot of Bills, and that included Bills feature back C.J. Spiller, who has been trying to clear the final hurdle with a high ankle sprain since the first month of the season.

“I feel good,” said Spiller Wednesday. “I definitely feel like I’m getting back to my old self, making the cuts, making that explosion, so just looking forward to seeing how Sunday goes.

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte missed practice on Wednesday because of a hyperextended right knee, but coach Marc Trestman sounded confident that Forte will play in Sunday’s NFC North divisional game against the Minnesota Vikings.

“I’m still optimistic that [Forte will play on Sunday],” Trestman said. “I feel pretty good that he’ll start getting some work tomorrow. We’ll see where he is at, but I’m going in optimistic.”

As expected, Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden will play on Thursday against the Dallas Cowboys for the first time since aggravating his strained right hamstring on Nov. 3.

McFadden's is expected to back up Rashad Jennings. McFadden's return is a concern, but Jennings still looks like a strong low-end RB1 play in a great matchup with a depleted Cowboys rush defense.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (collarbone) has been ruled out for Thursday’s game against the Lions. Matt Flynn will get the start. No one is going to confuse Flynn for Rodgers, but the last time he played against the Lions (Week 17 of 2011), he threw for 480 yards and six TDs. Some players are just a good fit for a particular system and that’s the case with Flynn in the Packer offense. It’s doubtful that the Green Bay defense will be able to shut down the Lions’ potent passing attack, so this could turn into a Thanksgiving Day shootout.

Broncos QB Peyton Manning (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Manning is fully expected to play against the Chiefs this week.

Browns QB Jason Campbell (head) has been ruled out of Week 13. Brandon Weeden will start in a nice matchup with the Jaguars, who seem to be playing better defense of late. His return may signal good things for Jordan Cameron, who hasn’t been able to get on the same page as Jason Campbell.

Bears RB Matt Forte (knee) did not practice Wednesday. Forte tweaked his knee in Week 12, but finished the game. He should be fine for a great matchup against the Vikings.

Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno (leg/ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Consider Moreno iffy for Week 13. If he can’t play, Montee Ball would likely be the primary beneficiary, though he has had issues with ball security. C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman would also be in the mix for touches.

Raiders RB Darren McFadden (hamstring) is questionable for Thursday's game against the Cowboys. Over the past four weeks, Rashad Jennings has been the #2 RB in fantasy, so it wouldn't make much sense to send him to the bench. McFadden's return is a concern, but Jennings still looks like a strong low-end RB1 play in a great matchup with a depleted Cowboys rush defense.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (groin) did not practice Wednesday. Peterson showed no ill-effects as he ran roughshod through the Packer defense. He should be a great start against the Bears, who are having problems against the run.

Rams RB Zac Stacy (concussion) did not practice Wednesday. Stacy did do some physical activity at practice, but if he can’t get through the NFL protocol for head injuries, Benny Cunningham would likely get the lion’s share of touches against a 49ers defense that has returned to form against the run (#8 in RB aFPA). Still, the Rams’ running game is looking good, so Cunningham should be a solid RB3/flex type even in a bad matchup given the volume of work he’s likely to see.

Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. At this point, we consider Mathews doubtful since he re-injured his hamstring, but we'll monitor his practice reps this week ahead of Sunday's game. The Chargers play in the late round of games. Danny Woodhead would be a great start if Mathews is sidelined, while Ronnie Brown would likely see an expanded backup role.

Jets RB Chris Ivory (ankle) was limited in Wednesday's practice. If Ivory is out this week, Bilal Powell would get a ton of work as the Jets’ RB1 in a great matchup with the Dolphins (#28 RB aFPA). Expect Powell to be ranked in the low 20s if Ivory is out.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) did not practice on Wednesday. Jacobs is just getting a veteran day of rest.

Panthers RBs DeAngelo Williams (quad), Jonathan Stewart (ankle) and Mike Tolbert (leg) did not practice on Wednesday. Tolbert was seen limping late in the game, while Stewart is likely just getting a maintenance day. The severity of Williams’ quad injury is unknown. We’ll continue to monitor their practice activity, but this is a backfield to avoid if at all possible.

Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (back) and Miles Austin (hamstring) are listed as probable for Thursday’s game against the Raiders.

Seahawks WR Percy Harvin (hip) was limited in Wednesday's practice. Harvin may be limited in practice for the remainder of the season. He’s expected to play in a big matchup with the Saints on Monday night.

Colts WR T.Y. Hilton (shoulder) did not practice on Wednesday. Hilton was actually carted off the field, but returned after a couple of plays. He should be fine for a bad matchup with the Titans.

Titans WR Kendall Wright (ankle) was limited in Wednesday's practice. Wright has been a sneaky good start for the entire season and that shouldn’t change in Week 13 against the Colts.

Patriots WR Aaron Dobson (foot) did not practice on Wednesday. This may explain why Dobson sat the vast majority of the second half in Week 12. If he can’t play, Kenbrell Thompkins would see increased snaps in his place.

Bills WR Steve Johnson (groin) practiced in full on Wednesday. Johnson is expected to make his return against a sketchy Falcons pass defense.

Raiders WR Denarius Moore (shoulder) has been ruled out for Thursday's Week 13 game against the Cowboys. Rod Streater has amassed 11 catches for 177 yards and a TD (on 17 targets) in two games with QB Matt McGloin. With Moore out, Streater should continue to see a lot of targets.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (abdominal) was limited in practice Wednesday. Despite being listed as probable, Nicks apparently didn’t play in Week 12 because he didn’t practice enough. That shouldn’t be a problem this week.

Jaguars WR Cecil Shorts (groin) was limited in Wednesday's practice. Shorts is fully expected to play in a bad matchup against Joe Haden and the Browns.

Bills WR Robert Woods (ankle) practiced fully on Wednesday. Woods should fare better now that E.J. Manuel is back under center. He averaged 53 yards and 0.4 TD in the first five games of the season (before Manuel got hurt).

Jaguars WR Mike Brown (shoulder) was limited in Wednesday's practice. It appears that Brown will return this week against the Browns.

Vikings WR Greg Jennings (Achilles) did not practice Wednesday. Jennings should be able to play against the Bears, but he isn’t much of a fantasy option at this point.

Jets WR Jeremy Kerley (elbow) was limited in Wednesday's practice. Kerley may be able to return to face the Dolphins, but he isn’t on the fantasy radar right now.

Titans WR Damian Williams (quad) did not practice Wednesday. Justin Hunter should continue to see significant snaps with Williams sidelined.

Broncos TE Julius Thomas (knee) practiced on Wednesday. Thomas is expected to play against the Chiefs and is back in the saddle as a top 5 TE option.

Redskins TE Jordan Reed (concussion) was limited in practice Wednesday. It looks like Reed will make it back for Week 13. Consider him a solid TE1 if he can play.

Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday. This looks more like a day of rest for Gates than it does an injury that would keep him out of Week 13.

Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez (toe) was limited in Wednesday's practice. Gonzo will play through the injury but the matchup with the Bills isn’t favorable.

Per Chargers HC Mike McCoy, RB Ryan Mathews (hamstring) has a chance to play in Week 13.

We still consider him doubtful since he re-injured his hamstring, but we'll monitor his practice reps this week ahead of Sunday's game. The Chargers play in the late round of games. Danny Woodhead would be a great start if Mathews is sidelined, while Ronnie Brown would likely see an expanded backup role.

Raiders running back Darren McFadden was taking reps in practice and looking as if he'll be ready to play Thursday against the Dallas Cowboys.

The question is how much McFadden will play based on the production of Rashad Jennings in his absence.

Raiders coach Dennis Allen said if McFadden is "fully healthy," both backs would play, but it doesn't sound as if Jennings is taking a back seat to anyone.

"You can't deny Rashad Jennings over the last month of the season has led the NFL in yards from scrimmage," Allen said. "I think he's earned the right and deserves the right to continue to get his carries and touches and we'll still do that."

Over the past four weeks, Jennings has been the #2 RB in fantasy, so it wouldn't make much sense to send him to the bench. McFadden's return is a concern, but Jennings still looks like a strong low-end RB1 play in a great matchup with a depleted Cowboys rush defense.

More than ever, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are going to be leaning on rookie tight end Tim Wright.

With Tom Crabtree recently lost for the season, the Bucs now have three tight ends on injured reserve (Luke Stocker and Nate Byham already were there). Wright, who played wide receiver in college, already has made an impact. He has 34 catches for 366 yards and two touchdowns.

The Bucs almost certainly will add another tight end to the roster. But Wright’s playing time is going to keep increasing. He was viewed mostly as a receiver early in the year. But, now, Wright’s going to get a chance to be an every-down tight end.

Wright hasn't found the endzone since Week 9, but he had eight catches for 75 yards last week. He's back in the mix as a streaming option.

Rams beat writer Jim Thomas on Rams' RB situation: "Daryl Richardson has been practicing, so he's healthy enough to play. If [Zac Stacy] is out, Richardson has to be active, although I couldn't tell you for sure that he'd be the 2 or the 3 behind [Benny Cunningham]."

The other player in question is Isaiah Pead, who has been active ahead of Richardson for the past couple of weeks. Benny Cunningham would be a Sneaky Start if Stacy sits.

Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) was on the sidelines at practice today, but Johnson said his knee is “getting better” and that he doesn’t anticipate it being an issue on short rest Thursday.

It's a great matchup at home against the Packers on Thanksgiving and Megatron seems like he'll be good to go.

Seahawks WR Jermaine Kearse is cleared to return to action after his concussion.

Seahawks WR Percy Harvin was held out of practice. Rehabbed today.

Washington Redskins coach Mike Shanahan brushed aside any notion that he could bench Robert Griffin III.

He will indeed be behind center for Sunday night's game against the New York Giants at FedEX Field, even after another middling performance in a 27-6 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday.

"The growth of the quarterback, the maturation process, he needs those repetitions," Shanahan told reporters at the team's training facility on Tuesday when asked if backup Kick Cousins would be a better option. "That's why he's going through these repetitions: to get better.

"One of the reasons why we had the success where he separated himself from every other rookie in the history of the game was he was able to do things that other quarterbacks couldn't do. He had that threat. That threat is not quite there like it was a year ago."

Things are starting to get ugly in Washington. RGIII ripped the play calling and 49ers LB Ahmad Brooks said Griffin shouldn't even be playing because of his knee. We've had a lot of questions about benching RGIII in our Discuss Your Team forum as owners are getting fed up too. Coming off a very poor matchup against the 9ers, RGIII's got a couple more tough matchups vs. the Giants and Chiefs, but does play Atlanta and Dallas in Weeks 15 and 16 of the fantasy playoffs - two very favorable matchups.

Here were some of the notable themes on RB Stevan Ridley from today’s conference calls with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels:

1. Coaching mindset on Ridley’s fumbling: McDaniels was asked if we’ve reached a point where the coaching staff’s comfort level in putting running back Stevan Ridley into games is jeopardized because of his recent streak of fumbles (3 in 3 games), and he addressed it head on.

“When things happen like this, in back-to-back games – or in this case a few games in a row – I think you certainly have to address what you can address in terms of trying to fix the problem. I have great confidence in Stevan as a runner. He’s been very productive in our offense. He’s done a lot of things. At the same time, obviously, ball security is the most important factor for our offense and for our team when we have the ball. We have to be part of the solution. We have to work with him,” McDaniels said.

“He certainly wasn’t the only one that put the ball [on the ground] or got the ball knocked off of him the other night. We had way too many balls out, or balls on the ground, and turned the ball over a significant number of times. We were fortunate to overcome that, which is very rare. I think our entire offense, we need to do a better job of taking care of the football, protecting when we have it, and making smart decisions and not giving the defense the opportunity to either strip it off of us, knock it off of us, whatever it may be. That’s a team thing. Our confidence, as an offense, you want to be able to protect the football no matter who you give it to. That’s our goal and that’s our focus, and we’ll work with everybody to try to fix the issues that certainly came up the other night.”

We posted a news item earlier today that suggested a committee backfield, which seems pretty likely at this point. Ridley can't be trusted, at least for this week. That makes only Shane Vereen as a safe play at RB.

Packers QB Matt Flynn took the starter reps today.

It looks like Flynn has could get the nod over Scott Tolzien this week on Thanksgiving at Detroit. There hasn't been an official announcement from the other than HC Mike McCarthy saying they have "to make sure both guys are ready."

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers was wearing his customary red No. 12 practice jersey and going through drills during the portion of Tuesday’s practice that was open to the media.

Practicing inside the Don Hutson Center, Rodgers was seen working on C-QB exchanges, executing footwork and dropback drills, and throwing short passes to receivers during position drills, along with backups QBs Matt Flynn and Scott Tolzien. It’s his first action on the practice field since breaking his collarbone on Nov. 4.

Don't forget, on Monday, HC Mike McCarthy categorized Rodgers’ chances of playing on Thursday in Detroit as “slim to none,” adding that Rodgers would have to practice in order to play.

I think there are a few layers to consider when it comes to Stevan Ridley.

First, I'd be shocked if they released him. He is a good runner working through a ball-security issue, which is similar to what Kevin Faulk faced early in his Patriots career. We saw him overcome it, so I don't think we're at an end-of-the-road type situation with Ridley.

I'd expect to see more of a rotation with Ridley, LeGarrette Blount (also a ball-security risk) and Brandon Bolden in that big-back role. The Patriots are deep at the position with those three, plus Shane Vereen, so I don't see any personnel additions.

Beat writer Mike Reiss said the days of Ridley seeing half the snaps are likely over, at least for the short term. It's unfortunately because Ridley has run well before fumbling and getting benched. For at least this week, Ridley can't be trusted in your lineup in what is likely an important game with playoff implications. In fact, of all the NE backs, Vereen is probably the only safe play here - at least until we see how this week vs. Houston plays out.

Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said Monday that tight end Kyle Rudolph could return to practice next week. After Rudolph fractured his foot during the Nov. 3 game at Dallas, it was projected he would be out four to six weeks.

"He's making good progress ... and could very well be practicing next week, we hope," Frazier said.

The story points out that if Rudolph returns Dec. 8 at Baltimore, he would have missed four games. In the three games he has missed, John Carlson has filled in admirably, catching 15 passes for 203 yards.

Eagles HC Chip Kelly said QB Nick Foles is the starter and doesn't need to look over his shoulder if he has a bad game.

Michael Vick is back healthy and will backup Foles this week against the Cardinals. But the good news for Foles' owners is there is no more worry about Vick taking the job. Vick even said last week that Foles has earned the job the rest of the way. Foles had one awful game against the Cowboys this season but bounced back from that to throw 7 TDs against the Raiders. We've had Foles as a mid-range QB1 in some recent starts and that will likely continue.

49ers will activate WR Michael Crabtree off PUP today and he is expected to play Sunday.

This was the sense all along after Crabtree wasn't activated for Monday Night Football against the Redskins. Crabtree will be a bit of a risk to play in Week 13 against the Rams, just based on the possibility of a limited snap count coming off a torn Achilles injury. But if all goes well, snaps should increase going forward. Keep in mind the 9ers play the Seahawks (12th against WRs) Week 14. But, that's followed by much better matchups with the Bucs and Falcons in Weeks 15 and 16. This is also good news for QB Colin Kaepernick as he now has a full arsenal of weapons for the first time this season.

Lack of sufficient practice time last week was the reason wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was inactive for the New York Giants' game against the Dallas Cowboys, according to coach Tom Coughlin, who seemed annoyed by the circumstances surrounding Nicks' situation.

"On Wednesday, as you have tracked it, he had an issue with the abdominal area, thought it might be a hernia, so he went through all the tests, etc., and did not practice. Was not able to practice," Coughlin said. "You asked me the question late in the week, and I answered: 'What would be the issue? Speed. He probably can't be full speed.'"

As the story points out, it's unclear whether Nicks will be ready to practice this week or play Sunday night against the Washington Redskins. It doesn't help the game is a Sunday night of course, but, if you happened to have handcuffed Nicks with Rueben Randle you'd be in good shape.

Raiders TE Mychal Rivera's being cleared comes as pleasant news considering the head shot he took from Michael Griffin. The hit knocked Rivera's helmet off, and his head then hit the ground.

"(I) went home and felt good, normal. Woke up this morning feeling normal," Rivera said. "Saw the neurologist today, talked to a lot of doctors, and they fully cleared me."

Raiders place-kicker Sebastian Janikowski said he simply isn't finishing his kicks and that there is no problem with holder Marquette King. Janikowski missed field-goal attempts of 32 and 48 yards and has missed seven attempts this season.

After making 49 of his previous 50 attempts from under 50 yards coming into the season, he is 11 of 15 this season.

Raiders quarterback Terrelle Pryor was well enough to be active and serve as Matt McGloin's backup against Tennessee.

He also had a package of plays the Raiders could have used, but HC Dennis Allen felt it better to give him another week of rest -- hence the use of Marcel Reece as the wildcat quarterback instead of Pryor.

Something to watch for Thursday against the Cowboys. Pryor won't be a starting fantasy option, but if you're playing McGloin, it could certainly take away from his production.

Washington Inactives
Stephen Bowen DE
Rex Grossman QB
Jose Gumbs S
Brandon Jenkins LB
Josh LeRibeus G
Jordan Reed TE
Darrel Young FB

Logan Paulsen & Fred Davis will fill in at TE with Jordan Reed out.

49ers Inactives
McLeod Bethel-Thompson QB
Tarell Brown CB
Cornellius Carradine DE
Garrett Celek TE
Mike Iupati G
Ray McDonald DE
Quinton Patton WR

WR Michael Crabtree was not activated from the PUP list and will not play tonight.

Ben Tate rushed seven times for just one yard Sunday during the Texans’ 13-6 home loss to Jacksonville.

Despite undrafted rookie Dennis Johnson showing life (13 carries, 74 yards) and Tate still dealing with four cracked ribs, coach Gary Kubiak said the Texans will continue to initially rely on Tate against the New England Patriots.

“There were a couple of times where there really wasn’t any room for (Tate). I don’t know if he ever got in a rhythm with what he’s doing,” Kubiak said Monday at Reliant Stadium. “We know what he’s battling through. He’s not practicing during the week; he’s just playing on Sundays. So I know that’s tough from that standpoint. But we definitely appreciate with some of the things going on. The young guy, D.J., was running so well. He did some good things, so we gave him some more opportunities. I think Ben will bounce back.”

With Tate banged up, it will be hard for the Texans not to take a look at Johnson, especially when you factor in Tate will likely leave next season and the team will need a reliable backup for Arian Foster. Tate will be a risky start as anything other than a RB3 or a flex.

Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) didn't practice Monday.

The Lions, of course, play the first game on Thanksgiving Day against the Packers so there's likely no concern here about Megatron.

Ravens TE Dennis Pitta at walkthrough practice Monday.

It's a short week for the Ravens who play the Steelers in the late Thanksgiving Day game. Pitta still isn't expected to play in this contest but could be back Week 14.

Jets HC Rex Ryan didn’t build much suspense during his Monday meeting with the media before announcing that Geno Smith will remain in the starting QB job.

Ryan never pulled Smith in favor of Matt Simms during the loss to the Ravens, but he’s done it in the fourth quarter of two other blowout losses this season.

Smith continues to look shaky and was 9-of-22 for 127 yards and two interceptions with the bulk of the yards coming when the Jets were already way behind. This week, it's the Dolphins in a pretty tough matchup. He won't be a safe fantasy option.

Texans HC Gary Kubiak said TE Owen Daniels is "real close" to returning from knee injury.

Raiders RB Darren McFadden (hamstring) was just on field running today. HC Dennis Allen will see how that went in regards to his status for Thursday.

The Raiders are on record as saying Rashard Jennings will continue to get his touches even when McFadden returns, leaving McFadden as a pretty risky option against the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, if he is activated. McFadden said he hopes to play but should probably be avoided at least this week.

Case Keenum will continue to be the Texans’ starting quarterback, coach Gary Kubiak said Monday during a news conference at Reliant Stadium.

Kubiak acknowledged the Texans’ struggles under Keenum, who’s 0-5 as a starter. But Kubiak called Keenum “a confident kid” and said the Texans will continue to stand behind him this season.

The Texans play the Patriots this week, so it will be another good test for the youngster. Keenum is probably only a QB2 option this week.

Broncos interim coach Jack Del Rio said he expects CB Champ Bailey (foot) and TE Julius Thomas (knee) to play this week against Kansas City.

The Broncos will need all their targets backs with the possibility RB Knowshon Moreno is unable to play next week. If Thomas doesn't go, we like Jacob Tamme as an option, but it already looks good for Thomas in a big matchup against the Chiefs.

Bears QB Jay Cutler not expected to play Sunday vs. Vikings, according to Bears HC Marc Trestman.

Josh McCown will get the start in what is a pretty good matchup against the Vikings. Cutler is looking at a Week 14 return.

Bears RB Matt Forte slightly hyperextended knee.

Forte has a nice matchup this week against the Vikings. The tweet said they will see where he is at Wednesday, but Forte was able to return to the game so he should have a good chance to play in Week 13. If you're an owner, it's a good time to go out and get Michael Bush if you haven't already.

Titans HC Mike Munchak said WR Justin Hunter has earned himself even more playing time with Sunday's performance.

Hunter caught six balls for 109 yards and a TD against the Raiders. Behind Nate Washington and Kendall Wright, Hunter won't put up steady numbers but could have some value in deeper leagues if you need help at the position.

Bucs TE Tom Crabtree is out for season with torn bicep.

Vikings HC Leslie Frazier said WR Joe Webb suffered a concussion. Status will be determined later in the week.

Packers HC Mike McCarthy said QB Matt Flynn played very well and he deserves to start. He added that he liked the way Scott Tolzien has grown.

McCarthy added that they are going to do the best they can to get both ready ready for a short week on Thanksgiving Day against the Lions. Neither will be better than a QB2 option. McCarthy added that Aaron Rodgers would like to start but the chances are slim.

The return of 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree will have to wait at least another week.

The 49ers did not activate Crabtree to the 53-man roster by the 1 p.m. (PT) deadline Monday, making him ineligible to make his season debut in the nationally televised night game against Washington.

As the story points out, the 49ers must clear a spot to place Crabtree on the team’s roster by the end of the day Tuesday in order for him to be eligible for the final five regular-season games, as well as any possible playoff games. Crabtree's return to action could take place Sunday against the St. Louis Rams at Candlestick Park. Even so, how much Crabtree plays is the big question. It's natural to expect him to be eased in for at least a game with snaps increasing going forward. He clearly has some value going forward but will be a risky start as the fantasy playoffs approach.

Raiders HC Dennis Allen didn't know yet if WR Denarius Moore (shoulder) would be back this week.

Colts wide receiver LaVon Brazill was lost to a back contusion in the fourth quarter.

Colts HC Chuck Pagano said Brazill is expected to be fine and looks to be ok for Week 13. Brazill had three catches for 35 yards as the Colts WR3 last week.

Chargers wide receiver Eddie Royal (chest) was evaluated in the fourth quarter. His absence gave Seyi Ajirotutu the opportunity to make the game-winning catch in the final minute.

49ers viewing it as a game-time decision on whether WR Michael Crabtree plays Monday night. From what I gather, it would be a mild surprise if he does.

Jags RB Justin Forsett has a non-displaced fracture. Out 4-6 weeks.

After not playing the past two weeks, Forsett caught a nine-yard pass to convert a third-and-8 but limped to the sideline and did not return because of a right ankle/foot injury. Could be a stretch for him to see the field again this season.

Running back Stevan Ridley lost a fumble for the third consecutive game tonight, and this one ended his shift.

Ridley, who has lost four fumbles this season, was beside himself after the game, but he made sure to also praise his teammates for overcoming the mistakes that led to a 24-0 deficit.

“First of all, this night is about the team and how we pulled it out,” Ridley said. “We fought back, being down 24. For me, it’s almost disgusting -- consecutive weeks, and personally as a player, my team deserves better. I come in. I work and bust my ass every day to come in here and not make the same mistakes. To have the same mistakes happen, there’s something I’ve got to do different, I’ve got to do better.

“As a competitor, all I can do is come in here and keep working. I’m not settling for anything less, and I’ve got to be there for my team when they call me. For me, I’m not going to focus on what I did or didn’t do. I’m just happy that we were able to come through and get this win tonight. That said a lot about this team and how hard we fought.”

LeGarrette Blount took over but also fumbled which turned the workload over to Brandon Bolden, who was inactive last week, but looked pretty good and scored a TD. Outside of pass-catching Shane Vereen, the Pats RB situation is pretty muddy right now. At this point, you almost have to let this sort itself out and not play Ridley in Week 13 against the Texans.

Miami Dolphins tailback Daniel Thomas tore a ligament in his left ankle during Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Carolina Panthers, and is likely done for the season.

Thomas, who gained 279 rushing yards and scored three touchdowns on his 77 carries this season, left Sunday's game on crutches and was in a walking boot. According to a source, Thomas will not have to undergo surgery to repair the injury.

Mike Gillislee will likely be activated next week for the first time in his career and would back up Lamar Miller, who should see a bulk of the workload. The only other running back on the roster is kick returner Marcus Thigpen. The bad news is the 'Fins play the tough-against-the-run Jets in Week 13. Reports Tuesday said Thomas may not miss the season now, but for fantasy purposes he likely won't be of any help.

Broncos’ running back Knowshon Moreno left Gillette Stadium on Sunday night with 224 more rushing yards on his stat chart — but also a boot on his right foot.

Moreno’s injury is not considered serious by football standards, although he did suffer a significant bone bruise in his lower right leg. He will be questionable at best to play Sunday at Kansas City.

The Broncos could be in trouble if Moreno misses time. Both Ronnie Hillman and Monte Ball have been benched because of fumbling, Hillman (inactive this past week) last month and Ball on Sunday night. Even undrafted rookie C.J. Anderson botched a handoff in OT Sunday night and otherwise appeared out of sync when Moreno came off the field for a breather. Ball is probably the guy to step in here, but it could end up being a hot hand or committee approach - like it was supposed to be before Moreno stepped up. Someone is going to have to be trusted...

Raiders HC Dennis Allen says Matt McGloin will start at QB for Raiders vs. Cowboys on Thursday.

It's a pretty good matchup against the Cowboys but McGloin will likely fall as a middle of the road QB2. He played pretty well in a tough matchup against the Titans and at this point the team wants to see what they may have in McGloin over Terrelle Pryor.

At least Vikings coach Leslie Frazier won't have to make a quarterback announcement Monday.

Or Wednesday. Or Thursday. Or Friday.

One positive for the Vikings that came out of Sunday's 26-26 tie against the Packers at Lambeau Field was their quarterback situation is settled. At least for this week.

But Christian Ponder did enough against the Packers to again get the nod next Sunday against Chicago at the Metrodome.

As the story pointed out, nearly each week this season, there has been some suspense about who would start at quarterback. Frazier has waited until mid to late week to make his announcement but that won't be the case this week. The Vikings take on the Bears who were torched by the Rams in Week 12.

With the offense struggling and the season hanging in the balance, Matt Flynn replaced Scott Tolzien at quarterback for the Packers during Sunday's matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Flynn entered the game with the Packers trailing the Vikings, 20-7, midway through the third quarter. Tolzien had a pretty touchdown scramble off a broken play in the first quarter but was otherwise ineffective, completing just 7 of 17 passes for 98 yards.

The Packers tied the Vikes and remain winless with Aaron Rodgers out. We'll monitor the situation this week when the Packers announce who will start Week 13, a Thanksgiving Day game at Detroit.

Chargers running back Ryan Mathews aggravated a right hamstring injury, forcing his third-quarter exit. He had 14 carries for 53 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown. It's his second goal-line score in three games.

No timetable was given for his absence or that of any Charger.

Ronnie Brown mostly picked up the slack with six carries and Danny Woodhead also had six, which has pretty much been the norm for him. Brown would probably see more work if Mathews misses time, but Woodhead's value would also increase and could end up with the bigger role.

Packers RB Johnathan Franklin was back on kickoff return duties for the first time in nearly a month, but he didn’t last long.

After the opening kickoff against the Minnesota Vikings, which he returned for 22 yards, the Green Bay Packers rookie running back was taken to the locker room for a concussion evaluation. Franklin appeared to fumble on the play, but officials ruled him down by contact.

The Pack was considering giving Franklin some more work on offense as a change of pace guy, but he will, of course, need to be pass NFL protocol if he did suffer a concussion.

Rams RB Zac Stacy was racking up chunks of yards against a punchless Chicago defense. Stacy left the game in the second half with a head injury after gaining 87 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries.

Fellow rookie Benny Cunningham picked up where Stacy left off. He ended up with 109 yards and a touchdown on just 18 carries. In total, the Rams gained 258 yards on the ground. Later reports said Stacy was being evaluated for a concussion, but the Rams gave no update on Stacy through Monday. We liked Cunningham as a sneaky start this week, but obviously if Stacy would miss time Cunningham would be a guy to pick up.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Jason Campbell suffered a concussion and did not return against the Steelers.

He was carted to the locker room and Brandon Weeden replaced him. Weeden would start if Campbell isn't able to pass NFL protocol for concussions. The Browns host Jags in what would be a decent matchup.

Patriots Inactives
Chris Barker G
Steve Beauharnais ILB
Jake Bequette DE
Josh Boyce WR
Marcus Forston DT
Steve Gregory S
Michael Hoomanawanui TE

Broncos Inactives
Champ Bailey CB
Zac Dysert QB
Ronnie Hillman RB
Michael Huff FS
Chris Kuper G
Julius Thomas TE

As expected, TE Julius Thomas is inactive. Joel Dreessen is dealing with a knee injury, but is active and a serviceable fill-in for desperate Thomas owners. Wes Welker is active and will play against his old team.

Jets RB Chris Ivory suffered an ankle injury on his first carry.

Asked if it's a high or low ankle sprain, he said "both." Ivory did play through the injury but Bilal Powell could be a factor going forward if Ivory can't play or is limited in any way.

Cowboys Inactives
Everett Dawkins DT
Justin Durant OLB
Jakar Hamilton DB
DeVonte Holloman OLB
Sean Lee MLB
Andre Smith TE
Darrion Weems T

Miles Austin returns to the lineup for the Cowboys. He is expected to resume duties as the Boys WR2.

Giants Inactives
Peyton Hillis RB
Markus Kuhn DT
Ryan Nassib QB
Hakeem Nicks WR
Dallas Reynolds OG
Adrien Robinson TE
Corey Webster CB

Rueben Randle becomes a nice play today against the Cowboys. Jerrel Jernigan and Louis Murphy could also see some work.

Colts Inactives
Kavell Conner ILB
Stanley Havili RB
Khaled Holmes C
Montori Hughes DT
Chris Rainey RB
Da'Rick Rogers WR
Greg Toler CB

Titans Inactives
Zac Diles LB
Mike Martin DT
Kevin Matthews C
Micah Pellerin DB
John Skelton QB
Byron Stingily T
Damian Williams WR

Raiders Inactives
Tyvon Branch S
Jason Hunter DE
Lamar Mady OG
Darren McFadden RB
Denarius Moore WR
Menelik Watson OT
Tyler Wilson QB

With Moore out, Rod Streater is a Sneaky Start, though the Titans are a tough matchup for WRs. Andre Holmes (1-33 in Week 11) is expected to start in Moore's place. Rashad Jennings starts again at RB.

Cardinals Injuries
Brittan Golden WR
Ryan Lindley QB
Dontay Moch LB
Kory Sperry TE
Ronald Talley DE
Earl Watford OG
Ryan Williams RB

Jags place WR Stephen Williams on IR.

Vikings wide receiver Greg Jennings (Achilles) also is listed as questionable but he told reporters Thursday that he definitely expects to play. Jennings was listed as probable against Seattle last week but he was made inactive on game day after experiencing a setback.

Jets WR Jeremy Kerley officially downgraded to OUT for Sunday's game

It looks like Greg Salas will be the WR3 with Santonio Holmes and David Nelson on the outside over the demoted Stephen Hill.

The St. Louis Rams announced quarterback Brady Quinn is on injured reserve, ending his season.

Quinn signed with the Rams on Oct. 23 after starting quarterback Sam Bradford suffered a season-ending knee injury. He practiced that week but has been on the injury report with what was called a hip injury since. Fisher said earlier this week Quinn injured himself lifting weights, and his injury is actually related to his lower back.

Raiders placed WR Juron Criner on IR.

Ravens had until 4 p.m. to active Dennis Pitta to make him eligible for Sunday. Just started practicing Wednesday. Not rushing him.

Pitta won't play in Week 12 and last reports we heard was he was likely still a few weeks away. He may be worth stashing in deeper leagues but that means he could be a risky play come playoff time.

49ERS

OUT
CB Tarell Brown (ribs), G Mike Iupati (knee), WR Quinton Patton (foot)

QUESTIONABLE
TE Garrett Celek (hamstring), WR Mario Manningham (knee), DT Ray McDonald (ankle)

PROBABLE
DT Quinton Dial (ankle), RB Frank Gore (ankle), QB Colin Kaepernick (back), LB Dan Skuta (foot), DT Justin Smith (shoulder)

REDSKINS

OUT
TE Jordan Reed (concussion)

QUESTIONABLE
DE Stephen Bowen (knee), S Jose Gumbs (ankle), RB Darrel Young (hamstring)

PROBABLE
CB E.J. Biggers (knee), CB Josh Wilson (toe)

Logan Paulsen and Fred Davis will try to fill in for Reed in a not-so-favorable matchup against the 49ers. Paulsen had a TD in Week 10 vs. the Vikings but only finished with three yards, so neither is really a safe play. For the 49ers, WR Mario Manningham is questionable while QB Colin Kaepernick and RB Frank Gore are probable.

Officially, Broncos WR Wes Welker is listed as "probable" on the Broncos' final injury report for Sunday's game, but interim head coach Jack Del Rio said the team's leading receiver would play after passing all of the NFL-mandated concussion tests.

"It's kind of like Peyton (Manning) was a while back — if you had the 'definitely will go' category, he'd probably be on there too," Del Rio said.

To be fair, Del Rio said Welker would "probably be" on the 'definitely will go' category... But it looks like what everyone is trying to say is Welker is going to play against his former team on Sunday night.

Since tearing through Cincinnati’s defense for 103 yards on 13 attempts, the Green Bay Packers’ other rookie running back, Johnathan Franklin, has a whopping six carries in seven games. He's only played two total snaps from the scrimmage the last four games. The team has said, practically weekly, that it’d like to get Franklin and James Starks involved more. Fumbles earlier in the season didn’t help Franklin’s cause.

But this week, running backs coach Alex Van Pelt maintained that the 5-foot-10, 205-pound fourth-rounder Franklin would get another shot at some point. He could offer a different dimension.

If you're a Franklin owner, he may have some future value, but for now, Eddie Lacy is the clear RB1 in the Pack's offense. Franklin's body type is different from that of Lacy and Starks, so it's possible Franklin could be a change-of-pace guy in upcoming games, but his fantasy value will still be limited in your typical league.

Packers RB coach Alex Van Pelt commented on Eddie Lacy's workload:

Ideally, “if you can do the perfect math,” Van Pelt said, Lacy would handle 20 carries, Starks five and Franklin five. It depends on the situation. If the game is on the line, Lacy “will be the one carrying the ball.”

The Pack isn't ruling out using Johnathan Franklin again at some point this season, due to a different body build than Lacy and James Starks. But, it's pretty clear Lacy is the RB1 in the Packers offense and has a pretty good matchup this week against the Vikings.

Browns TE Jordan Cameron has virtually disappeared the past two weeks, and he knows he needs to work harder to get open for QB Jason Campbell.

"I need to speed things up and I need to find a way to get open,'' said Cameron. "I need to try to get in there and do more. I need to step up and make plays and do whatever I can to help this team. That's my goal.''

In the past two games, Cameron has totaled just 33 yards on seven carries with a long catch of eight yards, and no TDs. Since Jason Campbell has taken over the past three games, Cameron has 11 catches for 114 yards (38 average) and no touchdowns. He flashed open early in the end zone on the Browns' first trip inside the red zone last week, but Campbell rolled right and missed him.

Cameron's recent lack of production is in stark contrast to his first seven games, when he caught 45 passes for 515 yards (73.5 average) with six touchdowns. He first said there were some chemistry issues with Campbell but mostly backed off that saying it was on him to wiggle free of coverage and that defenses are giving him more attention. It's likely a combo of both, though, and this week's matchup is a pretty tough one on top of all that against a good Steelers pass defense.

Running back Trent Richardson has yet to play the way the Colts envisioned when they traded for him in September. He's listed as questionable with a calf injury. The Colts believe he'll play Sunday.

Fellow running back Donald Brown ran for a season-high 80 yards, including 51 in the second half, against the Titans. Richardson will remain the starter unless he has a setback with his calf.

"We don't plan on changing our rotation with our backs," offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton said. "We've always been a running back by committee bunch, so we're going to continue to do that."

The Colts want to get TRich going but at the same time realize Brown has been playing well when getting his chances. Unfortunately for owners of both players, it doesn't get easier this week as the Cards rank second in allowing fantasy points to RBs. We have Brown as a low-end RB3 play while TRich is even below that and is more of a RB4 play.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Brady is fully expected to play against the Broncos, who are playing better pass defense now that Von Miller is back.

Broncos QB Peyton Manning (ankle, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12. Manning will play on Sunday night against the Patriots.

Cardinals QB Carson Palmer (right hand, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Palmer is a decent start this week against the Colts, who are #15 in QB aFPA.

Vikings QB Christian Ponder (left shoulder, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Ponder will start in a nice matchup against the Packers, but he isn't much of a fantasy option on the road in the cold weather.

Raiders QB Terrelle Pryor (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 12. Matt McGloin will start against the Titans. He tossed three touchdowns last week against the Texans but isn't a trustworthy start just yet. Pryor may be active as McGloin's backup in Week 12.

Bears QB Jay Cutler (ankle, out) has been ruled out for Week 12. Josh McCown is a Sneaky Start against the Rams. He has played well in Cutler's place. Cutler is out of a hard cast and is wearing only an ankle brace. He's rumored to be returning in Week 13, though the Bears are calling him "week to week."

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (collarbone, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12. Scott Tolzien will start in a nice matchup against the Vikings. He could produce a nice fantasy line in a must-win for the Packers.

49ers QB Colin Kaepernick (back) took full practice reps Thursday. Kaepernick should be fine for Monday night's game against the Redskins.

Jets QB David Garrard (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Rams QB Brady Quinn (hip, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (groin, questionable) returned to take limited reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is questionable for Week 12. Peterson said his groin bothered him "a lot" in Week 11, so he's not 100 percent. He says he's certain to play, but if that changes, Toby Gerhart would become a solid RB2 option. We're not quite as high on Peterson as usual, but he still has a ton of upside.

Texans RB Ben Tate (ribs, ankle, toe, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Tate has an ankle and toe injury now, in addition to the rib injury that has ben bothering him the last few weeks. He will be able to play in a great matchup against the Jaguars in Week 12.

49ers RB Frank Gore (ankle) took full practice reps Thursday. Gore should be fine to face the Redskins.

Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (not injury related) took full practice reps again Friday. No worries here.

Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Mathews will be fine to play against the Chiefs, but he's entering the tough part of his schedule.

Patriots RB Shane Vereen (wrist, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Vereen should be fine to face the Broncos on Sunday night.

Colts RB Trent Richardson (calf, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 12. It was a midweek downgrade for Richardson, but the Indianapolis beat writers don't seem too worried. Donald Brown is a better start regardless of Richardson's health.

Raiders RB Darren McFadden (hamstring, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12. This leaves Rashad Jennings as a low-end RB1 against the Titans' shaky rush defense.

Lions RB Joique Bell (achilles, questionable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is questionable for Week 12. Bell's practice activity indicates that he's on track to play against the Buccaneers.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 12. He was questionable last week and played through the tag to vulture a TD from Andre Brown.

Browns RB Willis McGahee (knee, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. McGahee will play against the Steelers, though Chris Ogbonnaya looks like the better start moving forward. The team said it wanted to get him more touches heading into their Week 10 bye and that came to fruition in Week 11.

Vikings RB Matt Asiata (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Giants RB John Conner (hip, probable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12.

Colts RB Stanley Havili (concussion, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Colts RB Dan Herron (ankle, probable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12.

Rams RB Chase Reynolds (knee, probable) took full practice reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12.

Chiefs RB Anthony Sherman (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Dolphins RB Daniel Thomas (ribs, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Patriots RB Leon Washington (ankle, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 12.

Browns RB Fozzy Whittaker (ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Redskins RB Darrel Young (hamstring) missed practice Friday after taking limited reps Thursday.

Broncos WR Wes Welker (neck, concussion, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. Welker will play against his old team and there's a good chance the Broncos find a way to get him in the endzone.

Raiders WR Denarius Moore (shoulder, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12. With Moore out, Rod Streater will be a Sneaky Start, though the Titans are a tough matchup for WRs. Andre Holmes (1-33 in Week 11) is expected to start in Moore's place.

Chargers WR Keenan Allen (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Allen will be good to go to face the Chiefs. It's not a great matchup and his knee is a bit of a concern, so he's not quite as solid of a start as usual.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (abdomen, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 12. Beat writer Ralph Vacchiano is "hearing" Nicks's groin injury is not serious, but admitted he does not know the specifics. Nicks expects to play, but if he can't it would be a big boost for Rueben Randle in a nice matchup with the Cowboys.

Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (back, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Bryant should be fine to face the Giants this week.

Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee, probable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12. Megatron has a tough matchup with Darrelle Revis on Sunday, but given his 187-yard, 1.8-TD average over the last four games, we're not too worried about his production.

Patriots WR Danny Amendola (groin, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Amendola will be fine to play against the Broncos.

Cardinals WR Michael Floyd (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. Floyd will be fine to face the Colts. He's coming off a big game and is a strong play in a nice matchup.

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. Wallace should be able to play in a terrible matchup with the Panthers.

Cowboys WR Miles Austin (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Austin will make his return this week. Beat writer Bryan Broaddus believes that Austin is the team's WR2 at this point (ahead of rookie Terrance Williams). Austin should get most of his snaps from slot receiver Cole Beasley. We still like Williams as an upside WR3 while recommend waiting on a week on Austin to see how he looks coming off the long layoff.

Steelers WR Emmanuel Sanders (foot, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Sanders is expected to play this week against the Browns. He and Jerricho Cotchery are Sneaky Starts assuming Ben Roethlisberger shies away from shutdown corner Joe Haden, who will likely shadow Antonio Brown.

Jaguars WR Cecil Shorts (groin, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Shorts will be fine to face the Texans and Chad Henne confirmed that he should see a few extra targets after complaining about his usage in Week 11.

Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (illness, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. Hopkins was benched last week but should bounce back with a decent game against a weak Jaguars defense.

Ravens WR Marlon Brown (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Brown should return to his WR2 role, though Tandon Doss and Jacoby Jones have been nipping at his heels.

Jaguars WR Mike Brown (shoulder, questionable) returned to take limited reps Friday after missing practice earlier in the week and is questionable for Week 12. Brown isn't much of a start given the injury and a so-so matchup with the Texans. Ace Sanders would see extra targets if Brown sits out.

Chargers WR Vincent Brown (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. Brown should play but isn't much of a fantasy option at this point, even with Keenan Allen nursing a knee injury.

Colts WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. DHB will be fine face the Cardinals in Week 12, though it's possible he lost some snaps to Lavon Brazill in Week 11.

Jets WR Stephen Hill (knee, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Hill has been benched in favor of David Nelson. Neither player is a good start against the Ravens.

Raiders WR Andre Holmes (shoulder, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12. He is expected to start in place of Denarius Moore.

Jets WR Santonio Holmes (foot, hamstring, probable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12. He'll be able to play against the Ravens and is a decent desperation start given the state of the Jets receiving corps.

Lions WR Nate Burleson (forearm, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12. Burleson has been cleared for contact and is expected to make his return this week. In the first three weeks of the season, Burleson was the #42 WR in standard and #29 in PPR formats, so he has some value.

Vikings WR Greg Jennings (achilles, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 12. Jennings expects to play against his old team, but it's no sure thing.

Jets WR Jeremy Kerley (elbow, doubtful) took limited practice reps all week and is doubtful for Week 12. Kerley isn't expected to return this week, so look for Santonio Holmes and David Nelson to get the start over the recently demoted Stephen Hill.

Dolphins WR Rishard Matthews (back, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Matthews will be fine to face the Panthers.

Jets WR David Nelson (illness, probable) returned to take full practice reps Friday after missing practice Thursday and is probable for Week 12.

Chargers WR Eddie Royal (toe, questionable) missed practice all week and is questionable for Week 12. Royal is likely to continue to play through the injury. He's a spotty option at best.

Jaguars WR Stephen Burton (concussion, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Raiders WR Juron Criner (shoulder, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 12.

Cardinals WR Brittan Golden (hamstring, questionable) took limited practice reps all week and is questionable for Week 12.

Titans WR Justin Hunter (concussion, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12.

49ers WR Mario Manningham (knee) took limited practice reps Thursday.

Buccaneers WR Chris Owusu (foot, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

49ers WR Quinton Patton (foot) has been ruled out for Week 12.

Jets WR Greg Salas (finger, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Patriots WR Matt Slater (wrist, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Ravens WR Brandon Stokley (thigh, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Jaguars WR Kerry Taylor (toe, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Titans WR Damian Williams (hip, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Jaguars WR Stephen Williams (achilles, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Broncos TE Julius Thomas (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps again Friday and is questionable for Week 12. Thomas should play, but the Sunday night game complicates matters. We should have a better idea of his availability on Saturday if/when he makes the trip to New England. Joel Dreessen is dealing with a knee injury, but is listed as probable. He'd be a serviceable fill-in if Thomas can't play.

Redskins TE Jordan Reed (concussion) missed practice again Friday. He has to pass the league's concussion protocols and be cleared to practice before he'll be able to return to game action. We should know by Saturday if he'll play, but since the Redskins play on Monday night, his status may be unknown at kickoff on Sunday. Owners should have a Plan B ready to go. Right now, he's looking doubtful. Delanie Walker is a nice pickup-and-start for owners in need.

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (back, forearm, hamstring, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12. Gronk is fully expected to play through his various injuries.

Steelers TE Heath Miller (not injury related, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12. No worries here.

Broncos TE Joel Dreessen (knee, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12.

49ers TE Garrett Celek (hamstring) missed practice Thursday.

Vikings TE Rhett Ellison (ankle, probable) took full practice reps on Friday after being limited earlier in the week and is probable for Week 12.

Chiefs TE Anthony Fasano (knee, ankle, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Browns TE MarQueis Gray (hamstring, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Texans TE Ryan Griffin (concussion, probable) took full practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Panthers TE Ben Hartsock (knee, out) has been ruled out for Week 12.

Patriots TE Michael Hoomanawanui (knee, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Jaguars TE Danny Noble (hamstring, probable) took full practice reps again Friday and is probable for Week 12.

Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (knee, probable) took limited practice reps all week and is probable for Week 12.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph (foot, out) missed practice all week and is out for Week 12.

Jets TE Kellen Winslow (knee, probable) returned to take limited reps Friday after missing practice Thursday and is probable for Week 12.

Brandon Bostick could very well be the Packers' future at tight end given the likelihood that Jermichael Finley will not return to the team next season. Finley suffered a herniated disc in his neck and is recovering from single-level fusion surgery, according to a report.

The Packers also have Andrew Quarless and Ryan Taylor to fill the void Finley has left, but neither of them has the Finley-like athletic qualities that Bostick does. The 6-3, 255-pound tight end ran faster and jumped higher than Finley coming out of college and has people pondering the limits of his ability.

"I think there's a lot of potential there," receiver James Jones said. "No. 1, he's extremely fast for his position. He has great hands and if he can just get it in his mind that nobody can stop him, and go out there and play the way he plays at practice, he's going to become a great player because he has all the tools."

Bostick has just four catches for 68 yards this season, but his recent contribution has the coaches contemplating how good he can be. At Newberry, he was a dominant receiver and even played one year of basketball. But it took him a year of being on the practice squad and improved special teams play to get him where he is now.

"He has a lot of potential," offensive coordinator Tom Clements said. "He's gotten better. He has a lot of physical tools to work with. He's doing well; he can do better."

But to get on the field more, Bostick has to block better. It has been the pebble in his shoe since making the switch to tight end, and while he has made a lot of gains, it was obvious against the Giants that when a blocker was needed Quarless or Taylor was called upon.

"He's made the most of his opportunities," tight ends coach Jerry Fontenot said. "That's a positive. We still have some things we'd like to clean up and improve, but he's definitely taking a step in the right direction."

It's doubtful that Bostick suddenly becomes startable this year in redraft leagues, but dynasty/keeper owners should take note. It's very unlikely that Finley will be back at 2014, so the Packers have a large hole at TE.

Saints Inactives
RB Darren Sproles
G Jahri Evans
WR Nick Toon
QB Ryan Griffin
DL Tyrunn Walker
S Isa Abdul-Quddus
CB Trevin Wade

With Sproles out, Pierre Thomas gets a small bump. The Saints are usually careful about not overworking him, so expect Mark Ingram to see 10-13 carries as well. He's a low end RB2 in standard formats. Khiry Robinson and Travaris Cadet may also see a few snaps as well. Lance Moore gets a small bump and looks like a WR4/flex option in a great matchup against the Falcons. Kenny Stills was already a Sneaky Start given the matchup.

Falcons Inactives
Omar Gaither MLB
Malliciah Goodman DE
Harland Gunn G
Kemal Ishmael DB
Sean Locklear G
Brian Robiskie WR
Josh Vaughan RB

TE Tony Gonzalez is active for the Falcons.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder) took full practice reps again Thursday. Brady is fully expected to play against the Broncos.

Broncos QB Peyton Manning (ankle) returned to full practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday. Manning will play on Sunday night against the Patriots.

Cardinals QB Carson Palmer (right hand) took full practice reps again Thursday. Palmer is a decent start this week against the Colts, who are #15 in QB aFPA.

Bears QB Jay Cutler (ankle) was ruled out for Week 12. Josh McCown is a Sneaky Start against the Rams. He has played well in Cutler's place. Cutler is out of a hard cast and is wearing only an ankle brace. He's rumored to be returning in Week 13, though the Bears are calling him "week to week."

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (collarbone) missed practice again Thursday. Scott Tolzien will start in a nice matchup against the Vikings. He could produce a nice fantasy line in a must-win for the Packers.

Jets QB David Garrard (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Vikings QB Christian Ponder (left shoulder) took full practice reps again Thursday. Ponder will start in a nice matchup against the Packers, but he isn't much of a fantasy option on the road in the cold weather.

Raiders QB Terrelle Pryor (knee) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Matt McGloin will start against the Titans. He tossed three touchdowns last week against the Texans but isn't a trustworthy start just yet. Pryor may be active as McGloin's backup in Week 12.

Rams QB Brady Quinn (hip) missed practice again Thursday.

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson (groin) missed practice again Thursday. Peterson said his groin bothered him "a lot" in Week 11, so he's a player to monitor this week. He says he's certain to play, but if that changes, Toby Gerhart would become a solid RB2 option.

Texans RB Ben Tate (ribs, ankle, toe) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Tate has an ankle and toe injury now, in addition to the rib injury that has ben bothering him the last few weeks. He should be able to play in a great matchup against the Jaguars in Week 12.

Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew (not injury related) returned to full practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday. No worries here.

Patriots RB Shane Vereen (wrist) took full practice reps again Thursday. Vereen should be fine to face the Broncos on Sunday night.

Chargers RB Ryan Mathews (hamstring) took full practice reps again Thursday. Mathews should be fine to play against the Chiefs, but he's entering the tough part of his schedule.

Raiders RB Darren McFadden (hamstring) missed practice again Thursday. McFadden is likely out this week, though HC Dennis Allen said that he's "definitely getting closer" to a return. If he's out, it would leave Rashad Jennings as a low-end RB1 against the Titans' shaky rush defense.

Colts RB Trent Richardson (calf) was added to the injury report Thursday after taking limited practice reps. It's a midweek downgrade for Richardson, but the Indianapolis beat writers don't seem too worried. We'll monitor his practice activity on Friday. Donald Brown is a better start regardless of Richardson's health.

Lions RB Joique Bell (achilles) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Bell's return indicates that he's on track to play against the Buccaneers.

Giants RB Brandon Jacobs (knee) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. We learned last week that Jacobs is the RB2/goal line back behind Andre Brown. Peyton Hillis is droppable at this point.

Browns RB Willis McGahee (knee) was limited Thursday after taking full practice reps Wednesday. McGahee is expected to play against the Steelers, though Chris Ogbonnaya looks like the better start moving forward. The team said it wanted to get him more touches heading into their Week 10 bye and that came to fruition in Week 11.

Vikings RB Matt Asiata (shoulder) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Giants RB John Conner (hip) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice.

Colts RB Stanley Havili (concussion) missed practice again Thursday.

Colts RB Dan Herron (ankle) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice.

Rams RB Chase Reynolds (knee) missed practice again Thursday.

Chiefs RB Anthony Sherman (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Dolphins RB Daniel Thomas (ribs) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Patriots RB Leon Washington (ankle) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Browns RB Fozzy Whittaker (ankle) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Redskins RB Darrel Young (hamstring) took limited practice reps Thursday.

Broncos WR Wes Welker (neck, concussion) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. It looks like Welker will be ok to play against his old team. Andre Caldwell is a decent Plan B for owners nervous about Welker's status.

Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (back) took full practice reps again Thursday. Bryant should be fine to face the Giants this week.

Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Megatron has a matchup with Darrelle Revis on Sunday, but given his 187-yard, 1.8-TD average over the last four games, we're not too worried about his production.

Chargers WR Keenan Allen (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday. It sounds as if Allen will be good to go to face the Chiefs. It's not a great matchup and his knee is a bit of a concern, so he's not quite as solid of a start as usual.

Patriots WR Danny Amendola (groin) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Amendola should be fine to play against the Broncos.

Jaguars WR Cecil Shorts (groin) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Shorts should be fine to face the Texans and Chad Henne confirmed that he should see a few extra targets after complaining about his usage in Week 11.

Cowboys WR Miles Austin (hamstring) took full practice reps again Thursday. Austin should make his return this week. Beat writer Bryan Broaddus believes that Austin is the team's WR2 at this point (ahead of rookie Terrance Williams). Austin should get most of his snaps from slot receiver Cole Beasley. We still like Williams as an upside WR3 while recommend waiting on a week on Austin to see how he looks coming off the long layoff.

Cardinals WR Michael Floyd (shoulder) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Floyd should be fine to face the Colts. He's coming off a big game and is a strong play in a nice matchup.

Dolphins WR Mike Wallace (hamstring) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Wallace should be able to play in a terrible matchup with the Panthers.

Jets WR Santonio Holmes (foot, hamstring) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Holmes did not have a setback per HC Rex Ryan; the team just wanted to give Holmes a day to rest on Wednesday. His return indicates that he'll be able to play against the Ravens.

Steelers WR Emmanuel Sanders (foot) took full practice reps again Thursday. Sanders is expected to play this week against the Browns. With Joe Haden focused on Antonio Brown, Sanders (and Jerricho Cotchery) may see a few extra targets.

Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (illness) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Hopkins should be fine to face the Jaguars.

Raiders WR Denarius Moore (shoulder) missed practice again Thursday. Moore is iffy for Week 12. Rod Streater will be a Sneaky Start, especially if Moore can't play. Andre Holmes (1-33 in Week 11) is expected to start if Moore is out.

Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (abdomen) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Beat writer Ralph Vacchiano is "hearing" Nicks's groin injury is not serious, but admitted he does not know the specifics. If Nicks can't play, it would be a big boost for Rueben Randle in a nice matchup with the Cowboys. It looks like Nicks will be a go, however.

Ravens WR Marlon Brown (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday. Brown should return to his WR2 role, though Tandon Doss and Jacoby Jones have been nipping at his heels.

Jaguars WR Mike Brown (shoulder) missed practice again Thursday. We'll monitor Brown's practice activity but he isn't much of a start given the injury and a so-so matchup with the Texans.

Chargers WR Vincent Brown (shoulder) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Brown should play but isn't much of a fantasy option at this point, even with Keenan Allen nursing a knee injury.

Lions WR Nate Burleson (forearm) took full practice reps Thursday after being limited Wednesday. Burleson is expected to make his return this week. In the first three weeks of the season, Burleson was the #42 WR in standard and #29 in PPR formats.

Vikings WR Greg Jennings (achilles) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Jennings expects to play against his old team, but it's no sure thing.

Jets WR Jeremy Kerley (elbow) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Kerley isn't expected to return this week, so look for Santonio Holmes and David Nelson to get the start over the recently demoted Stephen Hill.

Dolphins WR Rishard Matthews (back) took full practice reps again Thursday. Matthews should be fine for a bad matchup against the Panthers.

Chargers WR Eddie Royal (toe) missed practice again Thursday. Royal is likely to continue to play through the injury.

Colts WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (ankle) took full practice reps again Thursday. DHB should be ok to face the Cardinals in Week 12, though it's possible he lost some snaps to Lavon Brazill in Week 11.

Jets WR Stephen Hill (knee) took full practice reps again Thursday. Hill has been benched in favor of David Nelson. David Nelson (illness) was added to the injury report Thursday after missing practice. Neither player is a good start against the Ravens.

Raiders WR Andre Holmes (shoulder) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Holmes may start if Denarius Moore can't play.

Jaguars WR Stephen Burton (concussion) missed practice again Thursday.

Raiders WR Juron Criner (shoulder) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Cardinals WR Brittan Golden (hamstring) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Titans WR Justin Hunter (concussion) took full practice reps Thursday after being limited Wednesday.

Buccaneers WR Chris Owusu (foot) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Jets WR Greg Salas (finger) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Patriots WR Matt Slater (wrist) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Ravens WR Brandon Stokley (thigh) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Jaguars WR Kerry Taylor (toe) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Titans WR Damian Williams (hip) missed practice again Thursday.

Jaguars WR Stephen Williams (achilles) missed practice again Thursday.

Redskins TE Jordan Reed (concussion) missed practice Thursday. Reed's status is very much up in the air. He has to pass the league's concussion protocols and be cleared to practice before he'll be able to return to game action. We should know by Saturday if he'll play, but since the Redskins play on Monday night, his status may be unknown at kickoff on Sunday. Owners should have a Plan B ready to go.

Broncos TE Julius Thomas (knee) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice. Thomas's status is up in the air, though it is promising that he returned to practice at all. Joel Dreessen is dealing with a knee injury, but also returned to a limited practice. He'd be a serviceable fill-in if Thomas can't play.

Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski (back, forearm, hamstring) took limited practice reps again Thursday. Gronk is fully expected to play through his various injuries.

Broncos TE Joel Dreessen (knee) returned to limited practice reps Thursday after missing Wednesday practice.

Vikings TE Rhett Ellison (ankle) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Chiefs TE Anthony Fasano (knee, ankle) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Browns TE MarQueis Gray (hamstring) missed practice again Thursday.

Texans TE Ryan Griffin (concussion) took full practice reps again Thursday.

Panthers TE Ben Hartsock (knee) missed practice again Thursday.

Patriots TE Michael Hoomanawanui (knee) missed practice again Thursday.

Steelers TE Heath Miller (not injury related) took full practice reps Thursday after being limited Wednesday.

Jaguars TE Danny Noble (hamstring) took full practice reps Thursday after being limited Wednesday.

Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (knee) took limited practice reps again Thursday.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph (foot) missed practice again Thursday.

Jets TE Kellen Winslow (knee) missed practice Thursday after taking limited reps Wednesday.

After learning from Kevin Faulk and then Danny Woodhead, Patriots RB Shane Vereen has moved into the role of third-down back very nicely.

“Since the middle of last year, he has really emerged and developed into that role,” Tom Brady said. “I think the best part is he really understands the importance and magnitude of that role and takes a lot of pride in it. It’s a hugely important part of our offense.”

Vereen had 21 touches back in Week 1, and he registered nine touches (including eight catches) in Week 11, playing 47% of the snaps. He projects to be a low-end RB2 the rest of the way, but has more value in PPR formats.

While Green Bay Packers receiver Randall Cobb didn’t rule out returning, he isn’t certain his leg injury will allow him to play this season.

During his first interview with reporters since suffering the injury against Baltimore on Oct. 13, Cobb on Wednesday said a mid-December return is a best-case scenario.

“I can’t make that call right now,” Cobb said when asked if he is certain he will play again this season. “Right now, today, I cannot play. I’m doing everything I can. I’m working my butt off in the rehab process. This is something that it needs time. It’s getting better. There’s still no timeline on when I can come back.”

Cobb also disputed the report that he broke his fibula, but declined to shed more light on his injury. It doesn't sound as if he'll be useful for fantasy owners in 2013. Consider Week 16 a best-case scenario for Cobb, so he's probably not worth stashing in most leagues.

Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta returned to the practice field Wednesday for the first time since having surgery on his hip in late July, but neither he nor the team will reveal when the team's leading returning pass catcher will play his first game.

Asked when the Ravens expect Pitta to play, coach John Harbaugh said before practice, "It's impossible to say. Without getting ahead of ourselves here, as soon as possible. But safety is No. 1 and his ability to perform out there are two factors."

"I feel great," Pitta said in his first comments with reporters since the injury. "I'm going to take it slow, though, to make sure I can integrate myself back in."

"I got to be able to play at an elite level and that's what it takes to play in this league," he said. "We'll see how the next few weeks go and see how I progress and how I'm doing on the field. I'm not sure as of right now that timetable."

The phrase "we'll see how the next few weeks go" makes it sound as if Pitta is a few weeks away from returning to game action. Owners shouldn't expect him back soon, though TE-needy teams in deeper leagues may want to stash him for a possible return in the fantasy playoffs.

Bears QB Jay Cutler on his radio show Monday said he had been fitted that day for a smaller hard cast.

"He’s got the sprain, but there’s stability there, enough stability that they could take it off," HC Marc Trestman said.

Trestman would not go so far as to say the cast removal increases his optimism about Cutler's availability for the Vikings game on Dec. 1.

"I’m going to stay on a just week-to-week because I’ve stayed pretty consistent with (that)," Trestman said. "I’m really not the doctor. They tell me it’s week-to-week. I try not to put myself in a position where I get overly optimistic about these things. I just take them as they come, so I look at it as being week-to-week right now, and we’ll see where he is on Monday."

The latest report/rumor is that Cutler will return in Week 13, though the team continues to call him "week to week."

When asked when 49ers WR Michael Crabtree might make his return, beat writer Matt Barrows guessed that he would play "a dozen or so snaps" in Week 13.

The 49ers play the Seahawks, Buccaneers and Falcons to close out the fantasy season, so Crabtree may not be of much use until Week 15 at the earliest, and even then he'll be potentially dealing with Darrelle Revis. There's not much reason to hold onto Crabtree at this point, but it's possible that he produces in the fantasy playoffs if things progress quickly.

Kenny Britt might feel like throwing a tantrum, but he promises he won’t, no matter how frustrated he is with a lack of playing time.

“I am definitely surprised with me not playing. I really don’t know the reason, and I don’t ask the reason why, I just go out there and do my job,” the Titans wide receiver said on Wednesday. “Since I have been benched I have been working 10 times harder … to show what I can do.

“It is definitely frustrating, but I try not to show it. I don’t want to show it because it is not about me. But I can promise you I am definitely going to keep fighting until the end.”

Britt lost his place in the starting lineup earlier this season, and lately he’s rarely been on the field.

Britt is a pending free agent and won't be back in 2014. He'll draw some interest on the free agent market but didn't show much explosion this season. He's averaging just 8.4 YPR on eight catches.

Patriots QB Tom Brady (right shoulder) practiced fully Wednesday. Brady is fully expected to play against the Broncos.

Broncos QB Peyton Manning (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Manning will play on Sunday night against the Patriots.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers (collarbone) did not practice Wednesday. Scott Tolzien will start in a nice matchup against the Vikings. He could produce a nice fantasy line in a must-win for the Packers.

Vikings QB Christian Ponder (left shoulder) practiced fully Wednesday. Ponder will start in a nice matchup against the Packers, but he isn't much of a fantasy option on the road in the cold weather.

Raiders QB Terrelle Pryor (knee) took limited practice reps Wednesday. Matt McGloin will start against the Titans. He tossed three touchdowns last week against the Texans but isn't a trustworthy start just yet.

Bears QB Jay Cutler (ankle) was ruled out for Week 12. Josh McCown is a Sneaky Start against the Rams. He has played well in Cutler's place.

Falcons QB Dominique Davis (knee, questionable) took limited practice reps Wednesday.

Jets QB David Garrard (knee) practiced fully Wednesday.