By David Ferris
Quarterbacks
Lions QB Jon Kitna (back) has been practicing all week, isn't on the injury report, and should be fine at Oakland, though he'll get a stern test from the underrated Raiders defense.
Patriots QB Tom Brady (shoulder) worked the last two days and is a cinch to start at New York Sunday. The Pats like to have Brady on the injury report whenever possible, just for grins, though he was held back in Wednesday's practice.
Jets QB Chad Pennington (pelvis) had three straight days of full practice, cementing his place under center on Sunday. He's listed as probable.
Running Backs
Redskins RB Clinton Portis (knee) had a good week of practice and although he's listed as probable, he should be ready for a decent share of the work against Miami.
Jets RB Thomas Jones (calf) continues to be listed as questionable, though he said he felt okay at Friday's practice. It's very likely we won't know his definite status until Sunday, and you get the idea Leon Washington is probably going to see a fair amount of touches against New England, either way.
The Lions are encouraged by the work RB Kevin Jones (foot) did this week, but there's no guarantee he'll play Sunday, and even if he were to see action, it would be in a complimentary role. His official status is doubtful.
Packers RB Brandon Jackson (concussion) had a full day of practice Friday and should be on the field Sunday against the Eagles. He'll be needed with Vernand Morency (knee) very questionable.
49ers RB Frank Gore (hand), Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder), and Broncos RB Travis Henry (knee) are all off the injury report this week, so start 'em if you got 'em.
Wide Receivers
Cowboys WR Terry Glenn is out indefinitely with a knee injury and definitely won't play Sunday against the Giants. Patrick Crayton will spell him in the starting lineup.
Packers WR Donald Driver (foot) worked Friday and while he's listed as probable on the injury report, he should be able to go Sunday without problem. Things don't look as good for WR Greg Jennings, who has a balky hamstring, didn't practice Friday, and is listed as questionable. If Jennings can't go on Sunday, rookie WR James Jones, off a very impressive preseason, will get the start.
Bengals WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (knee) is listed as probable and did some work Friday after missing the previous two days. Barring a setback, he should be fine for the Monday opener with Baltimore.
Patriots WR Randy Moss (hamstring) was taken off the injury report Friday, so he'll go against the Jets. He's still a risky fantasy play, however, given how much time in camp he missed.
Bears WR Muhsin Muhammad has a minor ankle injury and was added to the injury report Friday. Nonetheless, he's probable and should be able to go at San Diego.
Ravens WR Mark Clayton (ankle) missed some time Friday, but he's still considered probable for the opener Monday at Cincinnati.
Rams WR Drew Bennett (quad) was limited in Friday's work and is very questionable for Sunday's game with Carolina. You should have enough depth at the position to not risk it with Bennett. The Rams aren't worried about Torry Holt's knee, however - Holt hasn't been on the injury report all week.
Giants WR Plaxico Burress (back) isn't on the injury report, and should be fine at Dallas.
Vikings WR Bobby Wade (ankle) had two full days of practice Thursday and Friday and should be fine against Atlanta Sunday.
Other Positions
Bears TE Greg Olsen (knee) is listed as doubtful, which extends the fantasy shelf life of Desmond Clark.
Eagles TE L.J. Smith (groin) is listed as probable, though he's still a risky start given how limited he was during the summer. Unless you're pressed at this position, I'd wait a week or two on Smith.
Bengals PK Shayne Graham (hip) has been practicing and should be fine for Monday's game with Baltimore. The club hasn't signed another kicker as of yet, an encouraging sign.
Leave a comment