Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
New York Giants rookie Abdul Carter earned a high PFF pass-rush grade in Week 15, trailing only the Vikings' Jonathan Greenard for the top spot. His strong performance positions him well in the NFL pass-rusher rankings ahead of Week 16, showcasing his immediate impact as a rookie.
Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson is having one of the best rookie seasons for a skill player since 2000. He has four TD runs of 50+ yards, tying Saquon Barkley for the most by a rookie since 2000. Henderson has 773 rushing yards, 7 TDs, and 5.4 YPC. He's on pace for 1,200 yards and 10 TDs, and is a favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Linebacker Quincy Williams acknowledged the New York Jets defense's poor performance following the firing of defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. Williams stated, "I mean, it’s very unfortunate, but the reality is we weren’t playing good as a defense." He also admitted to having what he feels is the worst season of his career, a sentiment that could impact his upcoming free agency. Williams stressed the players' responsibility in the defense's struggles, urging them to "make the call come alive."
New Orleans Saints kicker Charlie Smyth is optimistic about securing a permanent 53-man roster spot, having made nine of 10 kicks. The former Gaelic footballer kicked a game-winning 46-yard field goal in his home debut and a 56-yarder on his NFL debut. After three practice squad elevations, Smyth must be signed to the active roster to play Sunday against the Jets. He expressed confidence, stating "I think we're looking pretty good on that right now," and is focused on his performance, aiming to make each kick count.
Jalen Hurts seems to have avoided a serious leg injury sustained during Sunday's win over the Raiders, not appearing on the initial injury report for Week 16. Despite the scare, Hurts remains focused, stating, 'This isn't my first rodeo,' as he navigates external criticism. He delivered a strong performance against the Raiders, completing 12 of 15 passes for 175 yards and 3 TDs, with 39 rushing yards. Coach Sirianni noted Hurts' ability to block out distractions due to his locked-in focus. Hurts takes pride in performing in clutch situations, emphasizing preparation and resilience.
David Andrews highlighted 'discipline' as a crucial factor for the New England Patriots in their upcoming matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. He pointed to penalties as a significant issue in their Week 15 loss to the Bills. Andrews expressed excitement for the primetime game against a tough Ravens team, emphasizing the need to contain their strong running attack and mobile quarterback. He believes playing against good competition boosts confidence.
Brian Hoyer, along with David Andrews, discussed keys for the New England Patriots to rebound against the Baltimore Ravens. Hoyer emphasized the need to contain Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry's running game, stating that if they get going, it will be a long day. Offensively, he stressed discipline in routes and finishing blocks for a complete team win. The Patriots are looking to bounce back after blowing a 21-0 lead against the Bills.
Dallas Goedert is having a career-best season with 9 touchdown catches for the Eagles, nearing Pete Retzlaff's 1965 franchise record of 10. Goedert, 30, has found increased red zone opportunities this year, averaging 3.4 TDs in his first seven seasons compared to his current nine. He expressed excitement about the red zone chances and his ability to score, noting the team's evolving philosophy. Goedert, who agreed to a one-year restructured contract, has 54 catches for 551 yards this season. He acknowledged a missed opportunity for a third TD against the Raiders that would have tied the record.
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin stated on Tuesday that he has no new updates regarding linebacker T.J. Watt's status or availability. Watt recently underwent lung surgery due to an unusual situation, reportedly linked to a dry-needling technique. Tomlin confirmed he has not received any new information about Watt's potential return to the facility or details surrounding the injury's cause, emphasizing his transparency about the lack of new developments as the team prepares for Week 16.
The New York Giants have designated offensive guard Evan Neal to return from injured reserve, opening his 21-day practice window. Neal, who was placed on IR with a hamstring injury on November 15th, was not initially expected to play this season and has not seen game action since Week 17 of last season. The seventh overall pick in the 2022 draft, Neal started 13 games at right tackle as a rookie before starting seven games in both 2023 and 2024, eventually moving to guard in the 2025 offseason.
Tom Brady released his latest Week 15 power rankings, predicting the "most wide-open playoffs in over a decade." His rankings saw a surprise AFC team climb into the top five, while the Patriots and Packers experienced significant drops. On his 'Let's Go!' podcast, Brady offered advice to Patrick Mahomes regarding an ACL injury. Notably, despite his minority stake in the struggling Las Vegas Raiders, he deliberately avoided discussing the team during his segment.
Rams WR Davante Adams aggravated his hamstring in Week 15, forcing him out of the game and Tuesday's walk-through. Coach Sean McVay has him as a game-time decision for Thursday night's game against the Seahawks, but it's considered highly unlikely he'll play due to the short turnaround. Adams, who leads the NFL with 14 touchdown receptions (60 catches, 789 yards), will be given "every chance" up to game time.
Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt impressed in Week 15, rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown while Chris Rodriguez was sidelined. With Rodriguez now set to return, Croskey-Merritt's strong performance has raised questions about whether he earned a bigger role in the team's early-down work for the upcoming game against the Eagles.
Commanders RB Chris Rodriguez (groin) was a full participant in Tuesday's practice, indicating his readiness for a Week 16 return against the Eagles after missing last Sunday. Rodriguez had been the lead back, but Jacory Croskey-Merritt impressed in his absence with 82 rushing yards and a touchdown. The distribution of early-down work between Rodriguez and Croskey-Merritt will be a key storyline for Saturday's game.
Eagles RB Tank Bigsby is positioned to be the primary fantasy option if Saquon Barkley, who was held out of Tuesday's practice with a stinger, were to miss Saturday's game against the Commanders. His role would significantly increase in Barkley's absence.
Eagles RB Saquon Barkley was a non-participant in Tuesday's estimated practice due to a stinger. While his status for Saturday's game against the Commanders is uncertain, the DNP is likely early-week rest rather than a serious issue, given it was a walk-through. Barkley had a productive Week 15 with 78 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries, plus 14 receiving yards. His availability for Week 16 will depend on his practice status later in the week, with Tank Bigsby as the potential backup.
Former Seahawks star Richard Sherman joined a podcast alongside Kam Chancellor to discuss the 2025 NFL season. He shared his insights and thoughts on the current state of the Seattle Seahawks during the segment.
Packers star Micah Parsons' season is officially over due to a torn ACL, a significant blow to the team's Super Bowl aspirations. Parsons led the Packers with 12.5 sacks and 79 pressures, playing phenomenally before the injury. While the team will be without him for Saturday's game in Chicago, they remain hopeful for their NFC contention. His season-ending injury is expected to significantly impact the team's playoff hopes.
Packers WR Dontayvion Wicks was an estimated non-participant in Tuesday's practice due to an ankle injury, placing his availability for the upcoming Week 16 matchup in question. He was explicitly sidelined, indicating uncertainty for his status as the team prepares its injury report.
Packers WR Christian Watson was a non-participant in Tuesday's walk-through due to a chest/shoulder injury from Sunday's loss. While he avoided a serious issue and was cleared from the hospital, his status for Saturday's game against the Bears is uncertain. Coach Matt LaFleur stated functionality and pain tolerance are key, and Watson likely needs to practice by Thursday to play, with a final decision potentially made "up to game time."
