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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have designated safety DeShon Elliott for return from injured reserve. Elliott was placed on IR on August 30, missing most of last season with knee and hamstring injuries. He recorded 38 tackles, an interception, a sack, and a forced fumble in five games last season. The Steelers have 21 days to activate him.
Odell Beckham Jr. has joined the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad, expressing excitement about playing with teammate Justin Jefferson. Both players share an LSU background. Beckham was released by the Giants after one target in three games. He previously played for the Dolphins and Ravens, and helped the Rams win the Super Bowl in 2021.
Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Matt Goncalves had his fine for imitating drinking a beverage rescinded. The NFL and NFLPA clarified that such celebrations are now permitted. Goncalves' celebration involved imitating drinking Coke. Similar fines for Kyle Juszczyk and Jake Ferguson were also rescinded.
San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk had his $29,852 fine for imitating drinking a beverage rescinded. The NFL and NFLPA clarified that such celebrations are now permitted. Juszczyk, nicknamed 'Juice,' was fined for pantomiming drinking juice, a long-standing celebration. Similar fines for Jake Ferguson and Matt Goncalves were also rescinded.
Dallas Cowboys player Jake Ferguson is a key receiving prop selection for Thursday Night Football. He is featured in the Same-Game Parlay alongside Javonte Williams. George Pickens is also noted as an anytime touchdown pick. The Cowboys are preparing to host the winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Despite the Detroit Lions' defensive struggles, defensive tackle Alim McNeill has been a standout performer. In a recent loss to the Carolina Panthers, McNeill recorded a sack, seven total pressures, and a tackle for loss. He has consistently disrupted opposing offensive lines. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has creatively used McNeill, even as a stand-up rusher, to generate pressure. McNeill's strong play provides a much-needed spark for the Lions' defense.
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch had his 21-day evaluation period begin Wednesday, allowing him to return from injury. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard praised Branch's readiness, stating he looked "locked in" and could have played immediately. Coach Dan Campbell highlighted Branch's instinctive, aggressive playstyle, expecting his return to significantly elevate the Lions' defense. Branch feels he only needs to "catch his wind" and more contact to be game-ready. His return is anticipated around Week 7 against the Packers.
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford has been lauded by Peyton Manning and Luke Kuechly for his elite ability to manipulate defenses with his eyes and fakes. Ahead of the Monday night matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Stafford's precise execution and mastery of pre-snap cadence are crucial for the Rams' offense. While not playing at his 2025 MVP level, Stafford is still top 5 in passing yards. He faces a tough Bills defense, but his ability to command the offense remains a key factor.
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson is expected to see an increased role and potentially more targets with Michael Pittman Jr. sidelined for multiple weeks due to a foot injury. Pittman aggravated his existing injury in practice, as confirmed by head coach Mike McCarthy. Wilson, along with other Steelers pass-catchers such as D.K. Metcalf, Germie Bernard, Pat Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington, may see a boost in opportunities with Pittman out.
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington is anticipated to receive more targets following the multi-week injury to wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. Pittman aggravated his foot injury and will be sidelined for an extended period. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the news. Washington, along with other pass-catchers like D.K. Metcalf, Roman Wilson, and Pat Freiermuth, could see an increased role in the Steelers' offense due to Pittman's absence.
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth is among the players expected to see an increased target share following the multi-week absence of wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. due to a foot injury. Pittman's injury, confirmed by head coach Mike McCarthy, will sideline him for several weeks. Freiermuth, along with other Steelers receivers and tight ends like D.K. Metcalf, Roman Wilson, and Darnell Washington, could benefit from the redistribution of targets.
With Steelers WR Michael Pittman Jr. sidelined for multiple weeks due to an aggravated foot injury, rookie receiver Germie Bernard is expected to see a significant boost in playing time. Bernard registered an 86% route rate and 8 targets when Pittman missed Week 2. While considered a stash in deeper leagues, he may not be a reliable Week 5 fantasy option. Other Steelers pass-catchers like D.K. Metcalf, Roman Wilson, Pat Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington could also see more targets.
The Miami Dolphins have opened the 21-day practice window for cornerback Storm Duck, who has been on the Physically Unable to Perform list since sustaining a knee injury last year. Duck was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, indicating he is nearing a potential return to the active roster. The team also opened the window for defensive tackle Kenneth Grant. Duck's return could provide valuable experience to the young Dolphins squad.
Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kenneth Grant returned to practice Wednesday, progressing in his recovery from a toe injury. Grant was placed on Injured Reserve at the end of preseason and is working to regain game shape. He was limited in practice, while cornerback Storm Duck was a full participant. Head coach Jeff Hafley expressed excitement about Grant's potential return, noting it would add flexibility and versatility to the defensive line. Grant's return could help solidify a defense that has been improving but still needs stabilization.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw turned in an emotional, high-impact performance against his former team, leading the defense with 12 total tackles (seven solo) and six stops in a 24-14 victory over the Denver Broncos. Greenlaw, who earned a 68.2 PFF grade, repeatedly sparred with Broncos head coach Sean Payton while helping San Francisco secure a hard-fought win.
Kenneth Walker III is fueling the Kansas City Chiefs' offense as a premier Super Bowl contender, leading the NFL in rushing yards, yards per carry (6.2), rushing yards over expected (+212), and rush EPA (+10.9). Walker is just the third player in league history with multiple 170-plus rushing yard games in his team's first four contests, taking massive pressure off Patrick Mahomes alongside a pressure-heavy defense.
Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is set for center stage on Sunday night as the Baltimore Ravens prepare a heavy defensive game plan to contain his explosive playmaking. Robinson continues to showcase dynamic open-field speed, including a 59-yard touchdown run last week, while providing significant dual-threat pass-catching value to remain in conversations as the NFL's top back.
Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft acknowledged early struggles in his return from last season's ACL surgery, citing five dropped passes through four weeks. Kraft caught his first touchdown of the season in Sunday's win over Tampa Bay but noted he needs to stop trying to do too much, slow down, and focus on securing the ball to fulfill his role in the offense.
Los Angeles Chargers Pro Bowl right tackle Joe Alt is expected to miss Sunday's divisional game against the Denver Broncos due to a neck injury sustained in Week 4 when Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori collided with his head. Alt did not practice Wednesday but is not expected to be placed on injured reserve, indicating his absence will likely be under three games.
Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Dylan Laube delivered another explosive special teams play in Week 4, busting a 53-yard kickoff return during a 30-27 loss to the Chiefs. The sixth-round draft pick played seven offensive snaps and currently leads the entire NFL with 33.4 yards per kick return, serving as a dangerous return weapon heading into Sunday's game at the New England Patriots.
