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NFL News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Monday, November 17, 2025

Sam LaPorta Placed on Injured Reserve with Back Injury, Out Until Week 15

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Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has been placed on injured reserve due to a back injury, meaning he will miss at least the next three games. The third-year player is eligible to return in Week 15. In his absence, Brock Wright stepped into the lead tight end role. LaPorta has been a significant part of the Lions' offense this season, ranking second among the team in target share and 11th among all tight ends with at least 100 routes run in catchable target rate (91%).

Brock Wright Steps Up as Lead TE for Lions, Despite Ankle Injury

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Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright assumed the lead role after Sam LaPorta was placed on injured reserve with a back injury, sidelining him for at least three games. Despite entering Sunday night's game against the Eagles questionable with his own ankle issue, Wright's playing time suggests it won't be a lingering problem. He ran 26 pass routes, ranking fourth on the team, and tied for third with seven targets, though he caught only two for 8 yards in a limited passing performance by the team. Wright narrowly missed a potential touchdown catch due to pressure on Jared Goff or a misread. While not expected to replicate LaPorta's production, who ranks second in Lions' target share, Wright presents modest upside for deeper leagues, especially with a favorable Week 12 matchup against the Giants.

Amon-Ra St. Brown Leads Lions in Routes Amidst LaPorta's Absence

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Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown continued to be a primary target for the team, ranking among the top pass route runners in Sunday night's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. With tight end Sam LaPorta placed on injured reserve, St. Brown's role as a key receiver, alongside Jameson Williams and Jahmyr Gibbs, became even more pronounced. Quarterback Jared Goff may have been targeting St. Brown on a disrupted throw in the end zone, or potentially missed an open Brock Wright.

Lane Johnson Out 4-6 Weeks with Lysfranc Foot Sprain, Eagles Hopeful for Return

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Philadelphia Eagles all-pro right tackle Lane Johnson is expected to miss at least four to six weeks after suffering a Lysfranc foot sprain in the first quarter of the Eagles' win over the Detroit Lions. Johnson, 35, limped off the field and did not return, marking what will be his longest layoff since season-ending ankle surgery in 2020. The Eagles are hopeful this injury, which involves a tear or stretching of a foot ligament, is not season-ending, but he is expected to be placed on Injured Reserve, sidelining him for a minimum of four games. This adds to a season where the Eagles' offensive line, considered the league's best, has been decimated by injuries to Landon Dickerson, Cam Jurgens, and Johnson himself (who also missed time with an ankle and neck injury earlier). Johnson, in his 13th season, is a six-time Pro Bowler and five-time all-pro. Fred Johnson, a solid backup, is expected to step in, having been re-acquired from Jacksonville and playing well this year, often as an extra tight end.

Trey Lance Finishes Chargers' Blowout Loss After Herbert Pulled

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Los Angeles Chargers backup quarterback Trey Lance finished out the team's 35-6 road loss to Jacksonville in Week 11 after starting quarterback Justin Herbert was pulled from the game due to a struggling performance.

Justin Herbert Pulled in Blowout Loss, Chargers QB Enters Bye Week

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Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert threw for 81 yards and one interception in a Week 11 blowout 35-6 road loss to Jacksonville, eventually being pulled for backup Trey Lance. Herbert's day began with an intentional grounding penalty and continued to decline, facing a 52.2% pressure rate and two sacks from a beat-up offensive line. He attempted only 18 passes, with the Chargers' offense running a low 45 plays. Despite leaving briefly to be checked out after a roughing the passer call, he returned to the game. His two deep passes included a 30-yard gain to Keenan Allen and an interception intended for Ladd McConkey. Prior to this performance, Herbert had consistently tallied 17+ fantasy points in every game this season. He now enters a bye week to recover before a favorable Week 13 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, and is still considered a QB1.

Seahawks Express Confidence in Sam Darnold Despite Four-Interception Performance

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Despite a difficult outing where he threw four interceptions in a loss to a top team, the Seattle Seahawks are maintaining their confidence in quarterback Sam Darnold. The team publicly backs their starting quarterback following the poor performance.

Rhamondre Stevenson Expected to Practice Wednesday; Injury History and Role Detailed

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New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel expects running back Rhamondre Stevenson to practice on Wednesday as he recovers from a toe injury. Stevenson, who signed a four-year, $36 million contract in June 2024, has a history of injuries, including a severe high ankle sprain that ended his 2023 campaign in Week 13. Despite offensive struggles in 2023, where his yards per carry dropped to 4.0, Stevenson remains a key player due to his build (6-0, 227 lbs), pass-catching ability, and blocking skills. He is expected to continue as the lead runner and primary receiving option out of the backfield, though rookie Antonio Gibson will also have a role. Stevenson's rookie season in 2021 saw him gradually earn a significant role, eventually leading to a timeshare with Damien Harris. He has demonstrated impressive elusiveness and coordination for his size, making him a capable pass catcher and a valuable fantasy asset. He has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Jets, marking his third consecutive absence.

Sean Tucker Shines for Buccaneers with Career-High Performance; Emanuel Wilson Steps Up for Packers

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Sean Tucker delivered a standout performance for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 11, out-carrying Rachaad White 19-10 and rushing for a career-high 106 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 34 receiving yards and another touchdown. Meanwhile, Emanuel Wilson of the Green Bay Packers seized an opportunity due to Josh Jacobs' knee injury, dominating the backfield with 11 carries for 40 yards and a score, and playing 71 percent of snaps. Both players are being recognized as valuable fantasy football additions for the upcoming week.

Antonio Brown Faces Up to 30 Years in Prison on Attempted Murder Charge

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Former NFL star wide receiver Antonio Brown could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted of attempted murder, as a firearm was allegedly used in the incident. Brown appeared via video for an arraignment hearing in Miami-Dade Circuit Court, where his lawyer entered a not guilty plea. He was released on a $25,000 bond and is required to wear a GPS ankle monitor. The attempted murder charge, combined with a firearm sentencing enhancement, could lead to a potential 20-year minimum mandatory sentence. Brown is accused of firing two shots after a physical altercation following a celebrity boxing match on May 16. His lawyer disputes the affidavit, stating Brown used his personal firearm and shots were not aimed. Brown, who last played in 2021 for Tampa Bay, was extradited from Dubai after an arrest warrant was issued in June.

JuJu Brents Undergoes Season-Ending Foot Surgery, Will Miss Remainder of 2025

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Miami Dolphins defensive back JuJu Brents will undergo season-ending foot surgery and will miss the remainder of the 2025 season. Brents, 25, was a second-round pick by the Colts in 2023 and spent his first two years with that team before being claimed by Miami in August. This season, he appeared in seven games with two starts, recording 14 total tackles, one pass defensed, and one fumble recovery. He is expected to make a full recovery for the 2026 season.

Kirk Cousins to Likely Start for Falcons Amidst Michael Penix Jr.'s Season-Ending Injury Fears

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With Michael Penix Jr. potentially facing a season-ending knee injury, Kirk Cousins is expected to take over as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons for the remainder of the 2025 campaign. Cousins, who signed a substantial contract with the Falcons, has seen limited action this season, averaging 4.8 yards per pass attempt. In his previous full season, he was on pace for significant yardage and touchdown numbers before suffering an Achilles tendon tear. The Falcons' offensive outlook, particularly for receivers like Drake London (also injured), may shift with Cousins under center. Cousins has a history of consistent production, including streaks of 3,500 passing yards and 25 touchdown passes, though his deep-ball attempts have decreased in recent years. His ability to generate volume, especially with a new offensive coordinator, will be key. The team's schedule presents a challenging path, starting with a difficult matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

Tetairoa McMillan Breaks Out with 2 TDs as Bryce Young Shines

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Tetairoa McMillan had a career-best performance in Week 11, catching eight passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns on 12 targets, marking his second multi-touchdown game of the season. This breakout occurred as quarterback Bryce Young played his most productive game of the year, benefiting from McMillan's impact and contributing to his own success against a tough Falcons pass defense. McMillan has been seeing consistent targets, and this performance suggests he may have reached an upward trajectory, potentially becoming a solid WR2 for the rest of the season. His earlier touchdown came in Week 6.

Saquon Barkley Continues Freefall with Another Subpar Performance

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Saquon Barkley's struggles continued in Week 11, as he recorded just 90 total yards and no touchdowns on 27 opportunities against the Eagles. This marks his fourth game with fewer than 12 fantasy points in his last five contests. Since Week 6, Barkley has averaged only 12.98 fantasy points per game, topping 17 points just once. Despite being the RB13 on a per-game basis and having favorable matchups remaining, Barkley is not consistently producing big plays or scoring enough to be trusted as a legitimate RB1 week-to-week.

Juan Thornhill Signed to Jaguars Practice Squad After Steelers Release

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Veteran safety Juan Thornhill has found a new home, signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars' practice squad. Thornhill was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers last week, where he recorded 38 tackles and a fumble recovery in nine games this season. He previously spent two seasons with the Cleveland Browns and his first four years in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs. Thornhill brings significant career experience, with 375 tackles, eight interceptions, and multiple fumble recoveries to his name.

Malik Heath Held Out by Packers Due to Coach's Decision; LaFleur Cites Team Matters

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Green Bay Packers receiver Malik Heath did not travel with the team for their Week 11 game against the Giants due to a coach's decision. Head coach Matt LaFleur declined to provide specific details, stating, "I'm just going to keep that between our team. It's just one of those decisions." LaFleur did acknowledge Heath as a "valued member of our team" and expressed anticipation for his return. Heath has recorded six receptions for 86 yards in nine appearances this season, playing 33% of offensive snaps and 9% of special teams snaps.

Patrick Mahomes Takes Blame for Chiefs' Inconsistency and Losing Ways

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Following the Kansas City Chiefs' 22-19 Week 11 loss to the Denver Broncos, which dropped them to 5-5, Patrick Mahomes accepted responsibility for the team's struggles, stating, "It starts with me." He acknowledged a lack of consistency, citing missed throws and protection issues. Despite Mahomes' performance (18 touchdowns, 6 interceptions through 10 games), the Chiefs have lost five one-score games this season after going 11-0 in such contests last year. The team ranks ninth in points scored and fourth in points against, but a challenging schedule and close losses have impacted their record.

Davante Adams Overcomes Injury Concerns with Game-Winning TD Despite Low Yardage

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Davante Adams had a peculiar outing in the Rams' win over Seattle, catching only 1 of 8 targets for 1 yard. However, that single reception went for a touchdown, salvaging his fantasy performance. Adams' oblique injury, which limited his practice participation, may have contributed to his struggles. Despite the low yardage and a low catchable target rate (43%), Adams ran a team-high 96% of routes and had a 28% target share. He is expected to rebound in Week 12 against Tampa Bay and remains a clear-cut WR1.

Jalen Hurts' Passing Performance Draws Criticism in Eagles' Win

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In the Philadelphia Eagles' 16-9 victory over the Detroit Lions, quarterback Jalen Hurts' passing performance drew complaints and insults, despite the team's win. The discussion around the game highlighted the strong performance by the Eagles defense, followed by officiating complaints and the criticism directed at Hurts' play.

J.J. McCarthy Shows Fourth-Quarter Spark but Vikings Fall Short

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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy demonstrated resilience in Week 11, leading two fourth-quarter touchdown drives against the Bears after a slow start. Despite trailing 19-6 entering the final quarter, McCarthy completed 6 of 10 passes for two scores in the last 15 minutes, though the Vikings ultimately lost 19-17. McCarthy's performance since returning from an ankle injury includes a 50-of-99 completion rate with five interceptions in three starts. Head coach Kevin O'Connell is focused on balancing McCarthy's development with the team's postseason aspirations, acknowledging the need to manage both effectively.