Panthers “very optimistic” Jonathon Brooks plays Week 1

Chris Bell says he’s working to get into football shape, but…"I'm going to be ready Game 1. I'm going to be ready." - Bell.

Related Players: Malik Washington, Caleb Douglas, Jalen Tolbert, Kevin Coleman Jr.

Bell’s path to a meaningful role remains open in Miami’s unsettled receiver room, but his conditioning makes an immediate early-season breakout less likely. Washington and Douglas currently offer safer paths to September snaps, while Bell remains a late-round upside stash.

The 49ers have as many players back at practice today as they’ve had in a long, long time. Nick Bosa, George Kittle, Kyle Juszczyk, and Mike Evans were all on the field.

Related Players: Jake Tonges, Luke Farrell

Practicing before the overseas flight is another strong step toward Week 1 availability. Kittle may still have his early-season workload managed after such a significant injury, but this reduces the likelihood that Tonges will open the year as San Francisco’s primary receiving tight end. Kittle remains appropriately valued as a lower-end TE1 with elevated durability risk.

Just in from the Chiefs’ Wednesday workout. I did not see DT Chris Jones or LT Josh Simmons. S Chamarri Conner, DE Ashton Gillotte and DE Tyreke Smith (PS) were watching without a helmet. DE Jack Pyburn left early.

CB L’Jarius Sneed and RB Kenneth Walker did everything.

Related Players: Emmett Johnson, Brashard Smith

Walker’s return to a full workload effectively closes the short-term injury concern unless he experiences a setback. He can be drafted normally as a high-end RB1/2 option. Johnson remains the most relevant handcuff, while Smith profiles as a deeper developmental option with potential third-down work.