As the NFL season kicks off, several prominent players are facing uncertainty regarding their availability for Week 1. Notably, star running back Christian McCaffrey has returned to the injury report, while key playmakers from the Miami Dolphins are also questionable for their matchup. The absence of these players could significantly impact the teams’ performances this week. Here’s a detailed look at who's in and who's out as the season begins.
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-DNP
Injury: Hamstring
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
After a week of missing practice, Christian Gonzalez has been ruled inactive for the Patriots’ Week 1 game against the Raiders. As New England's top cornerback, his absence will pose a formidable challenge for the defense, potentially allowing the Raiders to exploit their passing game.
Practice schedule: LP-DNP-LP
Injury: Foot
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Another pivotal player missing this week is Andrew Thomas, who will not play in the Giants’ matchup against the Commanders. Thomas’s absence is particularly detrimental as the Giants seek to establish themselves in the competitive NFC East.
Practice schedule: Full-Full-DNP
Injury: Back
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Despite a back injury that kept him out of practice on Friday, Malik Nabers is active for the Giants against Washington. He was a standout rookie last season and will be crucial in the team's offensive strategy.
Chris Godwin
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-DNP
Injury: Ankle
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
After dislocating his ankle last season, Chris Godwin is inactive for Week 1, forcing the Buccaneers to rely on rookie Emeka Egbuka to fill the void against the Falcons.
Tristan Wirfs
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-DNP
Injury: Knee
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Considered one of the best offensive tackles in the league, Tristan Wirfs will also miss the game, further complicating Tampa Bay's offensive strategy against a strong Atlanta defense.
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-Full
Injury: Foot
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Fortunately for the Buccaneers, Vita Vea is active for Week 1 after a full practice participation on Friday. His presence will be pivotal in stopping Atlanta's running game.
De'Von Achane
Practice schedule: LP-LP-Full
Injury: Calf
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Despite a calf injury, De'Von Achane is active and expected to play a significant role in the Dolphins' offense against the Colts, showcasing his versatility as a running back.
Tyreek Hill
Practice schedule: LP-LP-Full
Injury: Oblique/Calf
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Tyreek Hill will also be active, providing a much-needed boost to the Dolphins’ aerial attack, especially against a Colts defense looking to contain their explosive plays.
Practice schedule: Full-DNP-Full
Injury: Hip
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Myles Garrett has been cleared to play after a brief scare with a hip injury. His presence is crucial for the Browns as they face the Bengals, who possess a potent offense.
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-Full
Injury: Back
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Cameron Heyward is active for Week 1 after securing a contract restructure. His experience will be vital in the Steelers’ defensive schemes against the Jets.
Practice schedule: Full-LP-DNP
Injury: Calf
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET
After a challenging previous season, Christian McCaffrey is dealing with a calf injury that makes him questionable for the 49ers' game against the Seahawks. His absence would be a significant blow in a critical division matchup.
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-DNP
Injury: Quad
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET
Dre Greenlaw has been ruled out for the Broncos against the Titans, as the team takes a cautious approach following his Achilles tear last season.
Practice schedule: LP-LP-Full
Injury: Calf
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET
After successfully practicing fully on Friday, Jauan Jennings will be available to play, providing the 49ers with some much-needed depth at wide receiver.
Micah Parsons
Practice schedule: LP-LP-LP
Injury: Back
Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET
Micah Parsons is expected to play against the Lions, despite lingering back issues. His ability to disrupt the opposing offense will be essential for the Packers' success.
Jayden Reed
Practice schedule: DNP-LP-LP
Injury: Foot
Kickoff: 4:25 p.m. ET
Jayden Reed is also in the mix, though he carries a questionable tag due to a foot injury. His impact could be significant, even in limited snaps.
Practice schedule: DNP-DNP-DNP
Injury: Hamstring
Kickoff: 4:05 p.m. ET
Christian Kirk will miss the Texans’ game against the Rams due to a hamstring injury, forcing Houston to rely more heavily on Nico Collins and their rookie receivers.
Practice schedule: LP-Full-Full
Injury: Groin
Kickoff: 8:20 p.m. ET
After recovering from a groin injury, Keon Coleman is active for the Bills' prime-time matchup against the Ravens. His performance will be closely watched as he aims to make a significant impact.
Practice schedule: DNP-Full-XXX
Injury: Knee
Kickoff: Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
As the Vikings prepare for their Monday Night Football clash against the Bears, Christian Darrisaw is still in question. His availability will be crucial for the protection of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Stay tuned for updates as we approach kickoff, and be sure to check back for more injury reports as the NFL season progresses!
