The NFL has reached the final week of the regular season, and for many teams, it is the end of the line, but there are still many in the hunt for the final playoff spots, here is a look at the key NFL injuries for Week 17.
Eric Ebron – Colts
The Indianapolis Colts are playing for the final AFC playoff spot in week 17 against the Titans, but could only have two healthy tight ends in Sunday’s game if pro bowler Eric Ebron can’t clear concussion protocol. Ebron suffered a concussion in the second quarter of the Colts week 16 win over the New York Giants. The tight end spot was deep earlier this season for the Colts but Jack Doyle went on IR in week 12 and then Erik Swoope was released December 11th. Can the Colts get the job done without Ebron at tight end?
Marcus Mariota – Titans
Mariota failed to finish the Titans game on Sunday as he dealt with a stinger injury to his throwing arm. He underwent evaluation but not has shown that it is any way related to the same injury that has plagued Mariota this season, in regards to him being able to grip the football.
Cordarrelle Patterson – Patriots
Patterson left Sunday’s game with a knee injury in the third quarter and did not return. He has been successful in many facets of the Patriots games this season, whether in receiving, running or returns this season. He had to step up in the game with Bills as Josh Gordon is on an indefinite suspension.
Demaryius Thomas – Texans
Thomas was carted off the field after suffering Achilles injury. He was replaced by reserve wideout Vyncint Smith who caught a 35-yard touchdown against the Eagles. Head Coach Bill O’Brien didn’t give a diagnosis but did say ” it doesn’t look good.” That has a season ended injury written all over. The Texans receiving core has been devastated by injuries this season. Thomas joins Will Fuller on the shelf with a major leg injury.
Xavier Rhodes – Vikings
It has been a season of nagging injuries for the Vikings Xavier Rhodes, this time it was a groin injury, that forced Rhodes out of the Vikings big win on the road over the Detroit Lions on Sunday. Along with this injury, Minnesota also lost corner Marcus Sherels to an ankle injury. The Vikings have a big game in the final week against the Bears, in which they will need to find a way to get a win if they want to go to the playoffs.
Taylor Heinicke – Panthers
With no Cam Newton, the Panthers turned to Taylor Heinicke before Heinicke suffered an elbow injury. With no chance remaining at the playoffs, it looks like the Panthers will have to turn to Kyle Allen at quarterback in the season finally at the New Orleans Saints. The Panthers could be in for a rough day in New Orleans on Sunday.
Denzel Ward – Browns
Pro Bowl corner Denzel Ward left the Browns game Sunday in the fourth quarter with a concussion. The Browns were able to get their seventh win of the season without Ward. This game marked his return from a previous concussion that had kept him out the two prior games. This could be a little worrisome for the Browns, as Ward has been a huge part of the success the Browns have had this season.
Vontaze Burfict – Bengals
Burfict left the Bengals game with the Browns with a concussion. This marked his second concussion of the season and the seventh concussion of his career. His multiple concussions should be a concern that lasts beyond just this season.
