NFL Week 15: Injury Updates, Quarterback Shifts, and Key Player News
Stay ahead of the game with the latest updates on injuries, roster moves, and starting quarterbacks as Week 15 approaches in the NFL.
The NFL season continues to unfold with dramatic twists and turns, and Week 15 promises more of the same. From critical injury updates to surprising quarterback changes, teams are battling for playoff positioning as the regular season nears its conclusion. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the latest news around the league.
Injury Concerns Mount Across the League
Several key players are facing uncertain availability for Week 15. The Chicago Bears are optimistic that wide receiver Odunze will suit up for their home game against the Cleveland Browns, despite missing Week 14 with a foot injury, according to ESPN. He’s currently listed as questionable.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, however, suffered a significant blow with outside linebacker T.J. Watt undergoing surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung. The injury occurred during a dry-needling session, and Watt will miss Monday’s game against the Miami Dolphins. His brother, J.J. Watt, shared the news on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stated on Friday that Watt is recovering comfortably but will be unavailable this week, adding he wasn’t looking beyond the current matchup.
Adding to the injury woes, Tee Higgins (concussion) and Tyler Harrison (heel) are expected to miss their respective teams’ Week 15 games. Higgins, through 12 games, has amassed 46 receptions for 667 yards and nine touchdowns, while Harrison has recorded 40 receptions for 594 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games.
Colts Navigate Quarterback Crisis, Bring Back Philip Rivers
The Indianapolis Colts are facing a dire quarterback situation and have brought 44-year-old Philip Rivers out of retirement to bolster their depleted corps. Despite praising Rivers’ readiness, head coach Shane Steichen has remained coy about naming a starter for Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. “He’s got great command in the huddle. He was throwing it well,” Steichen said. “So we’re excited for it.”
This move comes after starter Daniel Jones was ruled out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon, and backup Riley Leonard sustained a knee injury in Week 14. While Rivers has shown promise in practice, it remains to be seen if he can quickly adapt to the Colts’ playbook after a lengthy hiatus from the game. Rivers last played in the 2020 season, leading the Colts to a playoff loss.
Giants Face Defensive Uncertainty, Jets Name Cook as Starter
The New York Giants could be without star defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence for their Week 15 matchup against the Commanders due to a hamstring injury. Lawrence’s late-week appearance on the injury report suggests his status is uncertain.
Meanwhile, the New York Jets have announced that Zach Cook will start at quarterback for their road game against the Jaguars. Cook entered last week’s game against the Dolphins after Tyrod Taylor suffered a groin injury, completing 46.7% of his passes for 163 yards with two interceptions.
Key Players Return, Baltimore Extends Jones
Good news for the Dallas Cowboys, as star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has cleared concussion protocol and will be active for their game against the Vikings. Lamb, a four-time Pro Bowler, missed three games earlier this season with an ankle injury.
In Baltimore, the Ravens have secured the future of linebacker Jones with a three-year, $40.5 million extension, including $25 million guaranteed. Jones has been a key contributor for the Ravens, recording 34 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two passes defended through 12 games.
Coaching Changes and Other Notable News
The Giants are navigating internal changes, with interim head coach Mike Kafka declining to comment on the recent departure of assistant defensive line coach Bryan Cox during the team’s Week 14 bye.
Elsewhere, the Seattle Seahawks are monitoring the status of quarterback Smith, who sustained a shoulder injury in Week 14. Kenny Pickett, formerly Jalen Hurts’ backup with the Eagles, has taken first-team snaps in practice.
The Washington Commanders will be without quarterback Jayden Daniels for their game against the Giants due to a left elbow injury. Marcus Mariota will start in his place.
Pittsburgh’s Diontae Metcalf is expected to play next week despite a brief hospital visit after being hit in the abdomen during Sunday’s game against the Ravens. Head coach Mike Tomlin emphasized that the visit was a precautionary measure.
The Las Vegas Raiders have placed cornerback Kelly on IR with a season-ending patellar tendon tear.
Tight end Ertz will miss the remainder of the season after tearing his ACL in Week 14.
Finally, the Cleveland Browns have named rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders as their starter for the rest of the season following a standout performance against the Titans. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have also signed veteran defensive lineman Jason Pierre-Paul to their practice squad, potentially bolstering their pass rush for a playoff push.
