NFL Injury Report: Who to Keep an eye on in Week Three

Injuries to key players linger as we dive into week three of the NFL season. Should they play through worsening ailments or take a week off for more benefit long term? Let’s take a look at some of the big names dealing with injuries.

Aaron Rodgers:

Rodgers sustained a  knee injury in the opening game against the Bears and it continued to affect his performance in week two. With the game against the Vikings finishing in a tie, Rodgers managed to put up a safe performance, completing 30 of his 42 throws and tossing one touchdown in the game. The quarterback was unable to perform his usual late game heroics in overtime, including mishandling a read option as the game was coming to an end, resulting in a fumble that killed the offensive momentum.

If the Packers want any chance at a postseason run they will need Rodgers to be as healthy as possible entering the playoffs. Since their bye week isn’t for another month, Rodgers may need to tread lightly the next few weeks or his knee could continue to worsen, forcing him to take more than just a week off.

LeSean McCoy: 

The Bills star running back is currently suffering from a cracked rib and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup against Minnesota. McCoy has struggled in the first two weeks of the season, failing to reach 50 yards or double digit carries in either contest.

While the Bills could certainly use McCoys talent against a daunting foe like the Vikings, his inability to perform in recent weeks along with his injury would lead to a likely game off for the running back. The Bills have found themselves losing early in most games and relying on the passing game to attempt a comeback.

If McCoy suits up this Sunday look for him to see some early attempts to gage how the run game will go, then a possible disappearance in the second half if the Bills are playing catch up.

Cam Robinson: 

Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette is expected back this week from a hamstring injury, boosting a Jacksonville offense that (without him) blew out the Patriots last week. Tackle Cam Robinson tore his ACL during the win, though, and will now miss the rest of the season.

Losing Robinson is a major dent in the Jaguars offensive line and Fournette will feel it when trying to run to the left side. The team is confident backup tackle Josh Wells will be able to carry the load, but expect the Jags to run and rollout opposite the weak side of their offense line from now on.

Robinson’s absence may not have a play-to-play effect on the team, but over the course of the season the Jaguar run game and pass protection will need to work extra hard to maintain make up for that huge loss.

Jay Ajayi:

Ajayi injured his back early in last week’s contest, but was able to return in the second half and score his second touchdown of the season. However, the Philadelphia running back hasn’t practiced this week due to the injury.

There have been mixed signals from the Eagle coaching staff on the availability for Ajayi to play on Sunday: earlier in the week his status was listed has doubtful, but then the following day head coach Doug Peterson said his running back was day-to-day.

With the Eagle backfield struggling to stay healthy, and fellow RB Darren Sproles doubtful for Sunday, it looks like third string back Corey Clement will take the majority of snaps this week. But don’t count out Ajayi just yet — he will be a game time decision.