Major names make up the NFL injury report in Week 5, with several offensive stars suffering injuries that could force extended absences.
Which NFL injuries do you need to be aware of, and what are the latest updates?
Week 5 NFL Injury Roundup
PFN and SICscore.com bring you the latest injury news and analysis as the team of pro sports doctors, including Dr. David Chao, MD (@ProFootballDoc), give expert opinions on major injury statuses for Rashee Rice, Jonathan Taylor, and other stars.
Rashee Rice Suffers Serious Knee Injury
The Kansas City Chiefs’ star receiver, Rice, suffered a knee injury on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers that’s currently under evaluation.
"There's a glimmer of hope open for the season," @profootballdoc explains why the Chiefs not confirming a Rashee Rice ACL tear on Monday could be good news for the WR. #chiefskingdom
▶️https://t.co/ayUZWb8aWE pic.twitter.com/kYlvFPkVzB
— Sports Injury Central (@SICscore) October 1, 2024
Rice underwent an MRI on Monday, yet the exact nature of the extent of the injury is unknown at this time, all signs point to a serious injury, but he will continue to undergo testing and a more definitive status will be known soon.
High Ankle Sprain Could Sideline Jonathan Taylor
The Indianapolis Colts’ lead running back sustained a mild, right high ankle sprain in the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers. At this stage, he has not been ruled out of Week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars and will need to continue to be monitored.
It is the same ankle where he has had extensive history, and given this, the injured reserve could be considered for him in the short term.
Anthony Richardson Gives Way to Joe Flacco
The Colts dynamic quarterback sustained a hip injury in Sunday’s game. Anthony Richardson exited the game after returning for two plays and was unable to continue. He is now listed as day-to-day with oblique and abdominal strains.
As of now, he is not listed as out for Week 5 against the Jaguars but will continue to be monitored.
Will Levis Forced From ‘Monday Night Football’ Win
The Tennessee Titans quarterback left the Monday night game early in the first quarter after diving for a first down. By video, Will Levis suffered a mild AC joint sprain. The injury is to his throwing shoulder, which is more of a concern.
Titans QB Will Levis appeared to hurt his right shoulder on this play.
He’s currently in the medical tent.pic.twitter.com/DROUb7DgaG
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) September 30, 2024
However, his status for playing in Week 6, after the team’s Week 5 bye week, is likely a coaching decision to keep Levis sidelined, as they can use the injury to his throwing side as a reason to keep Mason Rudolph in.
Christian Watson Goes Down for Packers
Green Bay Packers wideout Christian Watson suffered a left high ankle sprain against the Minnesota Vikings. Fortunately, there is no fracture, but he could still land on IR.
An MRI will determine the severity of the sprain; however, it is likely a multi-week absence as this injury is difficult for a speed player to play through. The Packers have a healthy wide receiver depth group, which should help cover his absence.