All News & Analysis

IDP Injury Report: Week 16

The IDP injury report recounts the key defensive players in fantasy football who will be battling injuries in the upcoming week.

 

Bernard Pollard, BAL (ribs): Pollard is listed as questionable this week, after a rib injury sidelined him for the Ravens loss against Denver last week. He has still yet to practice this week, and looks to be a long shot to play this Sunday.

 

Dannell Ellerbe, BAL (ankle): In Ray Lewis’ absence, Dannell Ellerbe had been a decent source of tackles for IDP owners until he went down with an ankle injury. He returned to practice this week, albeit at a limited basis. Ellerbe is listed with a true “questionable” designation.

 

Tim Jennings, CHI (shoulder): The NFL’s former leader in interceptions has been sidelined with a shoulder injury, but the struggling Bears hope their playmaking cornerback will return this week versus the Cardinals. He has been limited in practice all week, but indications are that Jennings should be able to play in this upcoming must-win game.

 

DeMarcus Ware, DAL (elbow): Ware was limited in practice this week, and wore a brace on his hyper-extended elbow during his time on the practice field. Despite that, it would be an upset if Ware didn’t take the field in a game that could determine the Cowboys’ playoff chances.

 

Nick Fairley, DET (shoulder): If his owners haven’t done so already, it’s safe to drop Nick Fairley from all starting lineups. He has been placed on IR with a shoulder injury and will miss the remainder of the season.

 

Charles Woodson, GB (collarbone): Though he is getting nearer and nearer to a return, Charles Woodson has not yet been cleared to play this Sunday. Those participating in league championships have already found a replacement for Woodson, and would be advised to stick with such for the last week of fantasy football.

 

Brooks Reed, HOU (groin): After missing the past three games, Texans pass-rusher Brooks Reed will get the nod this week. Barring any setbacks, Reed could be a sneaky spot-start versus the Vikings for owners thin at the linebacker position in deep leagues.

 

Brian Robison, MIN (shoulder): Robison sat out Wednesday and Thursday’s practices with a shoulder injury, but returned to a limited capacity on Friday. That’s an encouraging sign for his owners, but alternatives should be explored in case Robison is unable to go this Sunday.

 

Tyvon Branch, OAK (neck): After sustaining both ankle and neck injuries in last week’s game versus the Chiefs, Tyvon Branch has not taken the practice field this week. At 4-10 and in evaluation mode, the Raiders will not have much reason to rush their start safety on the field and risk further damage. Other alternatives should be explored.

 

Justin Smith, SF (elbow): The interior presence of Justin Smith was missed by the 49ers a week ago after he exited with an elbow injury. The same can be said for his fantasy owners, as Smith’s chances to return in a divisional showdown versus the Seahawks are not good at this point. He will be listed as questionable, and because it si a late game, Smith owners would be advised to look elsewhere for defensive line help.

 

Aldon Smith, SF (shoulder): The defensive player of the year candidate was limited in practice all week, but mostly due to precautionary reasons. Expect Smith, the NFL’s sack leader, to get the start and play at full capacity this week.

 

Colin McCarthy, TEN (concussion): It’s been an injury-riddled season for the promising young linebacker, but McCarthy is expected to play this Sunday after dealing with lingering effects of a concussion. His presence could provide great upside for owners in need of a linebacker this week.

All Featured Tools

Subscriptions

Unlock the 2023 Fantasy Draft Kit, with League Sync, Live Draft Assistant, PFF Grades & Data Platform that powers all 32 Pro Teams

$31 Draft Kit Fee + $8.99/mo
OR
$89.88/yr + FREE Draft Kit