Bottom Line Up Front at WR

Justin Jefferson (MIN, ankle) is out and Terry McLaurin (WAS) picked up a brand-new hamstring issue on Friday — a real gut-punch for managers who thought his report was clean. Philadelphia is down both outside receivers (DeVonta Smith, Marquise Brown) on a short week, and Mike Evans is dealing with a new rib injury in San Francisco.

This week’s WR report covers 30 players: 1 already played this week, 13 out, 10 questionable, 3 no final tag yet (monday-night clubs), 3 cleared / no game-status designation.

Who is on this report?

Chris Moore (BAL), Zay Flowers (BAL), DJ Moore (BUF), Keon Coleman (BUF), Chris Brazzell II (CAR), Jalen Coker (CAR), Xavier Legette (CAR), Colbie Young (CIN), Tylan Wallace (CLE), Jayden Reed (GB), Jayden Higgins (HOU), Nico Collins (HOU), Ashton Dulin (IND), Keenan Allen (IND), Brenen Thompson (LAC), Ladd McConkey (LAC), Puka Nacua (LAR), Caleb Douglas (MIA), Justin Jefferson (MIN), Barion Brown (NO), Adonai Mitchell (NYJ), DeVonta Smith (PHI), Marquise Brown (PHI), Brandon Aiyuk (SF), Khadarel Hodge (SF), Mike Evans (SF), Ricky Pearsall (SF), Chris Godwin Jr. (TB), Jalen McMillan (TB), Terry McLaurin (WAS)

What changed since Week 3

• NEW: Barion Brown (NO) — Newly appeared on this week’s injury report; was not on the Week 3 report
• NEW: Brenen Thompson (LAC) — Newly appeared on the injury report this week
• NEW: Chris Moore (BAL) — Newly appeared on the injury report this week; was not listed in Week 3
• NEW: Colbie Young (CIN) — Newly appeared on the injury report for Week 4; not listed as injured in Week 3
• DOWNGRADED: DeVonta Smith (PHI) — Downgraded – played through the same injury in Week 3 (MNF vs. Bears) but could not go this week after DNP all week
• NEW: Justin Jefferson (MIN) — Newly injured — hurt during Week 3’s win over Tampa Bay (Sept 27), so this is his first missed game of the season and a new entry versus last week’s (Sept 25) clean report
• NEW: Ladd McConkey (LAC) — Newly listed this week per available sources; was not on the Week 3 (Sept 25) report
• NEW: Marquise Brown (PHI) — Newly out – no prior report of this injury
• NEW: Mike Evans (SF) — Newly injured — hurt during the Week 3 win over Arizona, so this is a new addition to the injury report since last week
• UPGRADED: Nico Collins (HOU) — Upgraded: missed Weeks 2 and 3 entirely, now cleared with no designation on the Week 4 report after progressing from limited to full practice participation
• UPGRADED: Puka Nacua (LAR) — Upgraded — missed Weeks 2-3 with groin/hip soreness, now cleared with full Friday practice and no designation
• NEW: Ricky Pearsall (SF) — Newly appeared on practice report this week; wasn’t previously a camp/injury story
• NEW: Terry McLaurin (WAS) — Newly injured – was fully healthy and WAS’s leading receiver (141 yards this season) through Week 3; this issue arose only on the final practice day
• NEW: Tylan Wallace (CLE) — Newly appeared on the injury report for Week 4; was not listed in Week 3
• DOWNGRADED: Xavier Legette (CAR) — Downgraded to Out this week after DNP all practice week; played in Week 3
• NEW: Zay Flowers (BAL) — Newly appeared on the injury report this week; was not listed in Week 3

Waiver wire: who gains if these names sit

• If Adonai Mitchell (NYJ) can’t go — Isaiah Williams and Malik McClain see added offensive snaps; neither is a trustworthy fantasy play in a 12-team PPR league this week
• If Caleb Douglas (MIA) can’t go — Jalen Tolbert and Ryan Miller see added snaps opposite Chris Bell; neither is more than a desperation-level PPR flex this week
• If Tylan Wallace (CLE) can’t go — Malachi Corley and Isaiah Bond see a bump in offensive snaps; negligible ripple for CLE’s startable fantasy assets (Jeudy, Boston, Judkins, Fannin unaffected)
• If Colbie Young (CIN) can’t go — Andrei Iosivas/Ke’Shawn Williams absorb extra snaps; no impact on Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, or Joe Burrow’s outlook
• If Jayden Higgins (HOU) can’t go — His loss is why Houston traded for Kayshon Boutte (now starting) and expanded roles for Xavier Hutchinson and Jaylin Noel
• If Brenen Thompson (LAC) can’t go — Negligible — Tre’ Harris remains the starting Right WR; deep/dynasty-league relevance only
• If DeVonta Smith (PHI) can’t go — With Smith and Marquise Brown both out, Dontayvion Wicks and Makai Lemon are the clear beneficiaries in the Eagles’ receiving game, along with increased work for Saquon Barkley as a safety-valve target
• If Marquise Brown (PHI) can’t go — His absence, combined with Smith being out, pushes Dontayvion Wicks and Makai Lemon into every-down roles this week
• If Justin Jefferson (MIN) can’t go — Jordan Addison becomes the clear WR1/primary target for Minnesota this week; Jauan Jennings and Tai Felton see a bump in snaps/targets behind him
• If Jayden Reed (GB) can’t go — Skyy Moore has been named the new No. 3 receiver behind Christian Watson and Matthew Golden and should see an increased role/target share; a drop/stash decision for fantasy rosters still holding Reed
• If Jalen McMillan (TB) can’t go — His absence funnels extra snaps/targets to Tez Johnson and Kameron Johnson behind Egbuka and Godwin
• If Xavier Legette (CAR) can’t go — John Metchie III is next in line on the right side; if Jalen Coker also sits, Metchie and Brycen Tremayne see expanded roles
• If Chris Brazzell II (CAR) can’t go — None – not in the active WR rotation even when healthy
• If Brandon Aiyuk (SF) can’t go — Zero current fantasy relevance; his absence is part of why San Francisco added Mike Evans and brought back Deebo Samuel this season

How to read this report

• Designations reflect Friday, October 2, 2026 final injury/practice reports where filed.
• Cleveland (CLE) and Pittsburgh (PIT) already played their Week 4 game Thursday night, October 1 — their entries reflect that completed game, not an upcoming one.
• Atlanta (ATL) and New Orleans (NO) play each other Monday night, October 5 — some of their tags may not be finalized until Saturday.
• “No Final Tag Yet” means a real injury concern exists but the club hasn’t filed (or confirmed) an official Week 4 game-status designation as of this report.

Already Played This Week (1)

These players’ games were already decided by Thursday night, before this Friday report — included for full-week context and any waiver-wire fallout.

• Tylan Wallace (CLE, WR2 (backup, right side, behind Jerry Jeudy)) — OUT (a) Knee injury; did not practice at all during the short Week 4 prep week and was ruled out for Thursday night’s home game vs. Pittsburgh (played Oct. 1, Browns won 27-24).
  Injury: Knee (since Within the Week 4 prep window (late Sept./Oct. 1, 2026); exact onset not specified in available reporting). Typical recovery: A knee injury serious enough to cause a full DNP week typically costs 1-3+ weeks depending on severity. Expected back: Unclear; status for Week 5 depends on practice participation once the Browns resume a normal week. Week 4 status: Did not play Week 4 (already final). Next 4 games: Low standalone fantasy value even healthy as Cleveland’s WR2 (behind Jeudy on the right side); Malachi Corley/Isaiah Bond absorb his snaps in the interim. Fantasy impact: Malachi Corley and Isaiah Bond see a bump in offensive snaps; negligible ripple for CLE’s startable fantasy assets (Jeudy, Boston, Judkins, Fannin unaffected)

Out (13)

Ruled out, on injured reserve, PUP, exempt, or suspended — not expected to play Week 4.

• Chris Brazzell II (CAR, Deep-bench rookie WR – not currently on the active depth chart) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Knee injury; on injured reserve with no return timeline given.
  Injury: Knee (since Week 1-2, 2026 (approximate)). Typical recovery: Variable; no timeline reported, could range from several weeks to season-ending depending on severity. Expected back: Unknown – no timeline reported. Week 4 status: Out (IR) for Week 4. Next 4 games: No confirmed return timeline within this window. Fantasy impact: None – not in the active WR rotation even when healthy
• Xavier Legette (CAR, WR2 (right side starter)) — OUT (a) Knee injury; did not practice all week and is officially ruled out for Week 4 vs. Detroit per CBS Sports’ Friday tracker.
  Injury: Knee (since Week 3, 2026 (approximate)). Typical recovery: Knee sprains of this nature typically cost 2-4 weeks. Expected back: Approx. Week 6 (~Oct 18, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Detroit. Next 4 games: Expected to miss roughly 2 more games before returning around Week 6. Fantasy impact: John Metchie III is next in line on the right side; if Jalen Coker also sits, Metchie and Brycen Tremayne see expanded roles
• Colbie Young (CIN, WR2 (backup, right side, behind Tee Higgins)) — OUT (a) Knee injury; did not practice all week and is officially Out for Sunday’s Week 4 home game vs. Jacksonville.
  Injury: Knee (since Within the Week 4 practice window (late Sept./early Oct. 2026); exact onset not specified in available reporting). Typical recovery: A knee injury producing a full DNP week typically costs 1-3+ weeks depending on severity. Expected back: Unclear; at minimum will miss Week 4, status beyond that depends on next week’s practice participation. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Jacksonville. Next 4 games: Limited standalone fantasy relevance even healthy as Cincinnati’s WR2 behind Tee Higgins; Andrei Iosivas and Ke’Shawn Williams are next in line for snaps. Fantasy impact: Andrei Iosivas/Ke’Shawn Williams absorb extra snaps; no impact on Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, or Joe Burrow’s outlook
• Jayden Reed (GB, Was a rotational WR2/3 receiver before the injury; no longer on the active depth chart) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) — placed on season-ending injured reserve on September 30, 2026 after a Week 2 neck injury that requires surgery. Done for the season.
  Injury: Neck injury requiring surgery (head coach Matt LaFleur said he does not believe it is career-threatening; no further diagnosis disclosed) (since Week 2, 2026 (Packers’ win over the New York Jets)). Typical recovery: Season-ending; no return-to-play timeline has been given for this type of neck surgery. Expected back: Not expected back in 2026; no 2027 timeline given. Week 4 status: Out for the remainder of the 2026 season, including Week 4. Next 4 games: Out for all of them — season-ending injured reserve. Fantasy impact: Skyy Moore has been named the new No. 3 receiver behind Christian Watson and Matthew Golden and should see an increased role/target share; a drop/stash decision for fantasy rosters still holding Reed
• Jayden Higgins (HOU, Was ticketed as a starting outside WR before the injury; not on the current active depth chart) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Placed on season-ending injured reserve on August 21, 2026 after tearing his ACL in an August 18 joint practice against the Raiders. He was expected to start opposite Nico Collins in 2026 before the injury.
  Injury: Torn ACL (left end zone landing during 11-on-11 red zone drill) (since August 18, 2026). Typical recovery: ACL reconstructions typically require roughly 9-12 months of recovery. Expected back: Not expected back in 2026; targeting a return for the 2027 season. Week 4 status: Out for the remainder of the 2026 season. Next 4 games: Out for all of these games; no snaps expected again in 2026. Fantasy impact: His loss is why Houston traded for Kayshon Boutte (now starting) and expanded roles for Xavier Hutchinson and Jaylin Noel
• Brenen Thompson (LAC, WR2 (Right WR, backup to Tre’ Harris)) — OUT (a) quadriceps injury; did not practice this week and was ruled out on the Friday report.
  Injury: Quadriceps strain (since Week 4 (exact date unclear from available sources)). Typical recovery: Quad strains typically require 1-3 weeks depending on grade of strain. Expected back: Possible return Week 5-6. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 at Seattle. Next 4 games: Deep depth receiver; expected back within a few weeks but minimal standalone fantasy value even healthy. Fantasy impact: Negligible — Tre’ Harris remains the starting Right WR; deep/dynasty-league relevance only
• Caleb Douglas (MIA, WR2 (Right WR)) — OUT (a) Ankle injury; did not practice all week and was ruled out for Week 4 at Minnesota.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4, 2026 (exact onset date not specified in sources checked)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains serious enough to cost a full week of practice typically sideline a player 1-3 weeks depending on severity. Expected back: Uncertain; no team timeline found in sources checked — monitor the Week 5 (Oct 11-12, 2026) injury report. Week 4 status: Will not play Week 4 at Minnesota. Next 4 games: Low standalone fantasy relevance even healthy, given Miami’s crowded, unproven WR room; worth only a deep-league speculative add if he returns to a clear role. Fantasy impact: Jalen Tolbert and Ryan Miller see added snaps opposite Chris Bell; neither is more than a desperation-level PPR flex this week
• Justin Jefferson (MIN, WR1 (starter)) — OUT (a) sprained ankle suffered in the first half of Week 3’s win over Tampa Bay. Did not practice at all this week (Wed/Thu/Fri DNP) and is officially ruled out for Week 4 vs. Miami.
  Injury: Ankle sprain (since September 27, 2026 (first half of the Week 3 win over Tampa Bay)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains typically sideline a player 1-3 weeks depending on severity; no specific grade has been disclosed. Expected back: Earliest realistic return is Sunday, Oct. 11 at New Orleans (Week 5); Minnesota could also manage his workload further given the Week 6 bye. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Miami Dolphins. Next 4 games: Targeting a Week 5 return at New Orleans at the earliest; some chance the team is cautious with him further since a Week 6 bye follows. Fantasy impact: Jordan Addison becomes the clear WR1/primary target for Minnesota this week; Jauan Jennings and Tai Felton see a bump in snaps/targets behind him
• Adonai Mitchell (NYJ, WR1 (Left WR)) — OUT (a) Finger injury first flagged on Thursday’s injury report; did not practice and was ruled out for Week 4 vs. the Bears.
  Injury: Finger (since Week 4, 2026 (first appeared on the Thursday, Oct 1, 2026 injury report)). Typical recovery: A finger sprain/dislocation typically costs only days to about 2 weeks, and many players return quickly once buddy-taped or splinted. Expected back: Uncertain; given the minor typical recovery window for this injury type, a Week 5 (Oct 11-12, 2026) return is plausible pending the team’s updated report. Week 4 status: Will not play Week 4 vs. Chicago. Next 4 games: Garrett Wilson remains the Jets’ unquestioned WR1 regardless; Mitchell’s absence bumps Isaiah Williams and Malik McClain into deep-league-only roles for one week if the injury proves short-term. Fantasy impact: Isaiah Williams and Malik McClain see added offensive snaps; neither is a trustworthy fantasy play in a 12-team PPR league this week
• DeVonta Smith (PHI, WR1) — OUT (a) Hamstring injury; did not practice all week on Philadelphia’s short week and was ruled out on the Friday final report for the Rams game. He had been playing through a similar hamstring issue the prior week (started and played Monday Night Football vs. Bears) before it worsened.
  Injury: Hamstring (since Originally flagged in practice the week of the Week 3 Monday night game (week of Sept 22, 2026); recurred/worsened heading into Week 4). Typical recovery: Hamstring strains typically cost 1-3 weeks; recurrence after playing through it can extend that. Expected back: Uncertain – at minimum this week, possibly into Week 5. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Rams. Next 4 games: If it lingers beyond Week 4, expect a cautious, staggered practice ramp-up over the following 1-2 weeks. Fantasy impact: With Smith and Marquise Brown both out, Dontayvion Wicks and Makai Lemon are the clear beneficiaries in the Eagles’ receiving game, along with increased work for Saquon Barkley as a safety-valve target
• Marquise Brown (PHI, WR2 (RWR, behind DeVonta Smith)) — OUT (a) Ankle injury (also referred to by his nickname “Hollywood” Brown); did not practice all week and was ruled out on Friday’s final report for the Rams game.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week of Sept 29-Oct 2, 2026 (exact onset date unclear from reporting)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains typically cost 1-3 weeks depending on grade. Expected back: Uncertain; no firm timeline reported. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Rams. Next 4 games: Week-to-week; expect him back once the ankle settles, likely within 1-2 weeks. Fantasy impact: His absence, combined with Smith being out, pushes Dontayvion Wicks and Makai Lemon into every-down roles this week
• Brandon Aiyuk (SF, Not on the active depth chart; listed as a reserve only) — RESERVE(c) On the 49ers’ reserve/left-squad list (Reserve-Did Not Report) rather than a standard weekly injury designation; technically still rehabbing a prior ACL/MCL tear but the team has stated he will not play for San Francisco again.
  Injury: Right knee ACL/MCL tear (originally suffered in-season prior year) (since Prior season (original injury); has remained away from the team through 2026 offseason and into this season). Typical recovery: ACL/MCL reconstruction typically 9-12 months, but return is now a roster/relationship issue rather than a medical one. Expected back: Team has stated he will not return to the 49ers; any eventual reinstatement would require him to formally petition the league, which he reportedly has not done. Week 4 status: Not an option for San Francisco this week or going forward per GM John Lynch and HC Kyle Shanahan. Next 4 games: Not expected to play for the 49ers in any of the next 4 games; situation looks like a de facto departure from the team. Fantasy impact: Zero current fantasy relevance; his absence is part of why San Francisco added Mike Evans and brought back Deebo Samuel this season
• Jalen McMillan (TB, WR depth piece (rotational outside/slot) – currently unavailable) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Knee (PCL sprain); on injured reserve, not eligible to play Week 4.
  Injury: Knee – PCL sprain (since Approx. Week 2-3, 2026 (exact date unclear)). Typical recovery: Isolated PCL sprains typically require 6-10+ weeks depending on grade. Expected back: Approx. Week 11 (~Nov 22, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out (IR) for Week 4 and for several more weeks. Next 4 games: Not expected back within the next 4 games. Fantasy impact: His absence funnels extra snaps/targets to Tez Johnson and Kameron Johnson behind Egbuka and Godwin

Questionable (10)

Game-time decisions as of Friday’s final report — trust your waiver wire just in case.

• Chris Moore (BAL, WR (starter, right side) opposite Bateman) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Ankle injury; limited practice participation ahead of Sunday’s Week 4 home game vs. Tennessee.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4 practice week, 2026). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains typically take 1-3 weeks depending on grade. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; likely clears if he progresses to a full practice before Sunday. Week 4 status: Questionable. Next 4 games: Low fantasy relevance even at full health as a low-target-share outside receiver; monitor for roster/streaming purposes only. Fantasy impact: Devontez Walker would move into the starting outside role if Moore sits; minimal fantasy ripple given Moore’s low target share
• Zay Flowers (BAL, WR1 (slot)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Hamstring, officially listed alongside a “not injury related – resting player” note; limited practice participation ahead of Sunday’s home game vs. Tennessee.
  Injury: Hamstring (maintenance/rest designation, not described as a new acute injury) (since Week 4 practice week, 2026). Typical recovery: Hamstring tightness/strains of this type are typically day-to-day to 1-2 weeks. Expected back: Expected to be available Sunday barring a setback; game-time call. Week 4 status: Questionable, lean toward playing given the “resting player” framing. Next 4 games: No long-term concern expected; remains BAL’s clear slot/WR1 target earner. Fantasy impact: If he were to sit, rookie LaJohntay Wester would see expanded slot snaps, with Rashod Bateman and Chris Moore absorbing extra targets
• DJ Moore (BUF, WR (Right WR, starter / primary target)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Shoulder injury; limited in practice this week ahead of Sunday’s home game vs. New England.
  Injury: Shoulder (since Week 4, 2026 (exact onset date not specified in sources checked)). Typical recovery: A shoulder sprain/AC joint issue that allows limited practice participation typically does not force a missed game, though it can be managed on a reduced-snap basis. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; full clearance timeline not specified in sources checked. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 vs. New England; expected to be a game-time call. Next 4 games: As Buffalo’s primary veteran target leader, expect him to play through this unless the team’s final report escalates; monitor the shoulder on a weekly basis. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir absorb the bulk of his vacated targets, with Joshua Palmer and Skyler Bell seeing deep-league-only snap bumps
• Keon Coleman (BUF, WR (Left WR, starter)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Ankle injury; limited in practice this week ahead of Sunday’s home game vs. New England. Trending toward playing but not a lock.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4, 2026 (exact onset date not specified in sources checked)). Typical recovery: A limited-practice ankle issue that doesn’t escalate to Doubtful/Out typically costs a player little to no missed game time, though snap count can be reduced. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; full clearance timeline not specified in sources checked. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 vs. New England; expected to be a game-time call. Next 4 games: If he plays through it, expect a normal complementary-WR role alongside DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir; worth re-checking the practice report each week this ankle is listed. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Joshua Palmer is the direct backup at his WR spot, with DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir absorbing additional target share
• Jalen Coker (CAR, Slot WR (WR3 in base package)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Quadriceps injury; limited practice participant Thursday, carrying a Week 4 Questionable tag vs. Detroit per CBS Sports’ Friday tracker.
  Injury: Quadriceps (note: this is a new/different issue from the ankle injury he was managing in Weeks 2-3) (since Week 4 practice week (~Oct 1, 2026)). Typical recovery: Quad strains of this type typically cost 1-2 weeks if mild. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; no extended absence currently projected. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 vs. Detroit. Next 4 games: If he plays through it, expect his normal slot role; a setback would elevate Metchie III and Tremayne. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Legette’s and Coker’s absences together would push significant slot/outside volume to John Metchie III and Brycen Tremayne
• Ashton Dulin (IND, Backup outside WR (right WR2)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Carries an ankle injury on the Week 4 report despite a full Friday practice.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4 (exact date of injury not specified in current reporting)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains typically cost 1-3 weeks depending on severity; a full practice week points to a mild issue. Expected back: Week 4 (October 4, 2026) vs. Washington Commanders. Week 4 status: Questionable, but full practice participation points toward playing. Next 4 games: Expected to remain available in a depth/situational WR role barring setback. Fantasy impact: Low standalone fantasy relevance; mainly a thin-depth consideration if Keenan Allen were also out
• Keenan Allen (IND, Starting outside WR (right WR1)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Did not practice Friday, but the team’s own injury report flagged it as “not injury related – resting player” tied to a groin issue being managed rather than a new, acute injury.
  Injury: Groin (veteran rest/maintenance, not an acute new injury per the club’s own notation) (since Week 4 (ongoing maintenance issue; no specific injury date identified in current reporting)). Typical recovery: Veteran rest/maintenance groin issues typically do not require missed games. Expected back: Week 4 (October 4, 2026) vs. Washington Commanders. Week 4 status: Questionable but trending toward playing given the rest-day framing. Next 4 games: Likely to keep playing through this as a managed veteran workload issue; worth a weekly practice-report check. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Ashton Dulin and Darius Slayton would see expanded routes/targets
• Ladd McConkey (LAC, WR1 (Slot WR, starter)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) foot injury; Limited Participation in practice this week, officially Questionable per the Friday report.
  Injury: Foot (since Week 4 (exact date unclear from available sources; a lingering issue that surfaced on this week’s report)). Typical recovery: Foot injuries vary widely — a sprain can resolve in 1-2 weeks, but ligament or plantar-fascia-type issues can linger 3-6+ weeks. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; the Limited (not DNP) practice status suggests a real chance he plays. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 at Seattle — trending toward available. Next 4 games: If he plays through it, expect a normal target share with some week-to-week injury-report volatility; a setback could push him toward IR. Fantasy impact: Derius Davis is the direct backup in the slot; Quentin Johnston and Tre’ Harris would see a target-share bump if McConkey sits
• Mike Evans (SF, WR1 (left side, signed in free agency in 2026 after leaving Tampa Bay)) — QUESTIONABLE(a) Officially listed Questionable for Week 4 vs Denver with a ribs injury sustained in Week 3; did not practice Wed/Thu, limited Friday.
  Injury: Ribs (since Week 3 (sustained in San Francisco’s win over Arizona)). Typical recovery: Rib injuries (non-fracture) typically cost 1-2 weeks; Shanahan said it is “not expected to be long-term”. Expected back: Game-time decision Week 4; likely available by Week 5 if held out. Week 4 status: Questionable — true game-time decision; HC Kyle Shanahan said “Hopefully we’ve got a shot”. Next 4 games: If he plays, expect a snap-count/workload caution; if he sits, DeMarcus Robinson and Khadarel Hodge see boosted targets on the perimeter. Fantasy impact: If Evans sits, DeMarcus Robinson is the clearest fantasy beneficiary for added target share, with Khadarel Hodge also in the mix
• Terry McLaurin (WAS, WR1) — QUESTIONABLE (a) New hamstring issue that “popped up” in Friday’s (Oct 2) practice per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero; a surprise, last-minute addition to the injury report that was not there earlier in the week. Game-time decision for the London game vs. Colts.
  Injury: Hamstring (new, distinct from a prior-season quad injury) (since Friday, October 2, 2026 (practice)). Typical recovery: A mild hamstring strain discovered the same week can still allow a player to suit up; moderate strains cost 1-3 weeks. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; if he plays, workload could be monitored. Week 4 status: Questionable – uncertain whether he plays Sunday in London. Next 4 games: If he plays through it Week 4, expect normal role; if it lingers, 1-2 weeks of downgraded practice participation are plausible. Fantasy impact: If McLaurin sits, Stefon Diggs and Deebo-type slot usage increase, with Dyami Brown and Jaylin Lane seeing more snaps – no clean 1-for-1 handcuff since he is the clear WR1

No Final Tag Yet (Monday-Night Clubs) (3)

Carries a real injury concern, but the club hasn’t filed (or confirmed) its final Week 4 tag yet — check back Saturday.

• Barion Brown (NO, WR2 (right side, opposite Chris Olave)) — QUESTIONABLE (b) Hamstring injury; limited practice participant Thursday. NO’s game is Monday night (Oct 5), so this week’s designation may still be preliminary and could be updated on New Orleans’ Saturday injury report.
  Injury: Hamstring (since Week 4 practice week (~Oct 1, 2026)). Typical recovery: Hamstring strains typically cost 1-3 weeks depending on grade. Expected back: Game-time decision for Monday night Week 4; no extended absence currently projected. Week 4 status: Questionable heading into Monday night vs. Atlanta; final tag may not be official until Saturday. Next 4 games: If he plays, expect a complementary WR2/3 role opposite Chris Olave; a setback would open snaps to Bryce Lance and Devaughn Vele. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Bryce Lance and Devaughn Vele would see increased snaps/targets behind Chris Olave
• Khadarel Hodge (SF, WR (right side, WR2 behind DeMarcus Robinson)) — QUESTIONABLE(b) Appeared on the 49ers’ official practice report with a knee injury (DNP Wed and Thu); he was not among the three players the team announced as ruled Out for Week 4, but no confirmed final Friday tag was found in available team reporting.
  Injury: Knee (since Week N (prior to Week 4; exact date not disclosed)). Typical recovery: unknown. Expected back: unknown. Week 4 status: Uncertain — on the practice report with a knee issue but not confirmed among the team’s Out designations; treat as a game-time watch. Next 4 games: Deep WR4/5 role regardless; limited standalone fantasy value even if he plays. Fantasy impact: Not fantasy-relevant in standard 12-team leagues either way
• Ricky Pearsall (SF, WR (rotational depth piece, not currently listed among SF’s top perimeter targets on the depth chart used for this report)) — QUESTIONABLE(b) Not on the team’s formal Week 4 injury-report table in available reporting, but Kyle Shanahan confirmed Pearsall has knee soreness and did not practice Wednesday; Pearsall himself said he is confident he would play if the game were that day.
  Injury: Knee (soreness) (since Week 3 or Week 4 practice (Shanahan was unsure of the exact play)). Typical recovery: Minor knee soreness typically does not cost game time. Expected back: Expected to play Week 4 per his own comments. Week 4 status: Likely to play; self-described as game-ready. Next 4 games: No long-term concern indicated; worth a practice-participation check in-season but not currently expected to miss time. Fantasy impact: Low-end flex/bench stash in deeper leagues given SF’s crowded WR room (Evans, Samuel, Robinson, Cowing ahead of him in target competition)

Cleared / No Game-Status Designation (3)

Managing something, but carries no game-status designation and is expected to play.

• Nico Collins (HOU, WR1 (left WR)) — NO GAME-STATUS DESIGNATION (a) Not listed on the Friday injury report. Collins suffered a hamstring strain (reported as a low-grade/Grade 1 strain) on September 16, 2026, which cost him Weeks 2 and 3. He practiced on an increasing basis this week (limited Wed/Thu per some reports, full Friday per others) and multiple current sources agree he was off the final Week 4 report and full-go Friday.
  Injury: Hamstring strain (since September 16, 2026 (Wednesday practice)). Typical recovery: Grade 1 hamstring strains typically sideline a player 1-3 weeks. Expected back: Week 4 (October 4, 2026) vs. Dallas Cowboys. Week 4 status: Expected to play and resume his normal role Week 4. Next 4 games: Expected to step back in as Houston’s clear WR1 with a full route tree; workload could still be lightly monitored in his first game back after a 2-game absence. Fantasy impact: With Collins active, Houston’s passing game funnels back through him; if he were to sit, Kayshon Boutte and Xavier Hutchinson would see the added target share
• Puka Nacua (LAR, WR2/primary target (Rams’ top target alongside Davante Adams)) — NO GAME-STATUS DESIGNATION(a) Cleared with no game designation after Limited practice Wed/Thu and full participation Friday; officially “good to go” for Week 4 at Philadelphia.
  Injury: Hip (previously also dealt with groin soreness) (since Week 2 (missed two games with groin/hip issue before Week 4)). Typical recovery: Soft-tissue hip/groin injuries typically sideline a player 1-3 weeks. Expected back: Returning Week 4 vs Philadelphia. Week 4 status: Expected to play and start Week 4. Next 4 games: Expected to resume full WR1 workload now that he has been cleared; monitor practice reps in following weeks for any setback. Fantasy impact: His return pushes Jordan Whittington and Konata Mumpfield back down the target share pecking order; no real waiver-add benefit since he’s playing
• Chris Godwin Jr. (TB, Slot WR / WR2 in target share) — RESOLVED (b) Ankle; did not practice Wednesday but returned to a full practice Thursday and does not appear on the Friday Questionable/Out list, indicating he is good to go for Week 4 with no formal designation.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4 practice week (~Sept 30, 2026)). Typical recovery: Minor ankle soreness of this type (DNP to full in two days) typically resolves within days. Expected back: Already resolved – expected to play Week 4. Week 4 status: Expected to play Week 4 vs. Green Bay, no injury designation. Next 4 games: No expected absences tied to this ankle issue. Fantasy impact: No impact expected – full workload anticipated

Sourcing: NFL.com official injury reports, team-issued injury reports, Ourlads depth charts, and beat-reporter coverage, as of Friday, October 2, 2026.

NFL Week 4 Fantasy Football Injury Report Friday WR first appeared on Game On Media.

Bottom Line Up Front at RB

Seattle’s backfield is in crisis with both Jadarian Price and Zach Charbonnet out, pushing George Holani into lead-back usage. Arizona has lost both James Conner and Trey Benson to injured reserve, handing rookie Jeremiyah Love the full-time job. Pittsburgh (already in the books Thursday) got Rico Dowdle ruled out again, with Jaylen Warren fully cleared as the lead back.

This week’s RB report covers 17 players: 2 already played this week, 9 out, 3 questionable, 1 no final tag yet (monday-night clubs), 2 cleared / no game-status designation.

Who is on this report?

James Conner (ARI), Trey Benson (ARI), Ray Davis (BUF), Jonathon Brooks (CAR), Trevor Etienne (CAR), D’Andre Swift (CHI), Travis Etienne (NO), Breece Hall (NYJ), Jaylen Warren (PIT), Rico Dowdle (PIT), George Holani (SEA), Jadarian Price (SEA), Zach Charbonnet (SEA), Bucky Irving (TB), Tyjae Spears (TEN), Austin Ekeler (WAS), Rachaad White (WAS)

What changed since Week 3

• DOWNGRADED: Breece Hall (NYJ) — Worsened/confirmed – he exited the Week 3 game vs. Detroit mid-contest with the injury and was already considered week-to-week; this week’s full DNP week and Out tag confirms he did not recover in time for Week 4
• NEW: Bucky Irving (TB) — New injury since Week 3 (left that game briefly); was fully healthy and the clear starter entering Week 3
• UPGRADED: D’Andre Swift (CHI) — New, short-lived story this week — flagged with a Thursday DNP for the first time, then cleared to full participation by Friday with no carryover concern from last week’s (Sept 25) report
• NEW: Jadarian Price (SEA) — Newly downgraded this week — was Seattle’s rookie starting RB1 before this Wednesday aggravation; now ruled out
• UPGRADED: Jaylen Warren (PIT) — Upgraded — was Questionable (shoulder) entering Week 3; no designation at all for Week 4
• NEW: Rachaad White (WAS) — Newly out – was active as the Commanders’ RB2 in Week 3 behind Croskey-Merritt
• UPGRADED: Zach Charbonnet (SEA) — Upgraded from PUP (no practice) to a return-to-practice designation this week, but still not cleared to play

Waiver wire: who gains if these names sit

• If Breece Hall (NYJ) can’t go — Braelon Allen is the clear Week 4 beneficiary as the new lead back; Kene Nwangwu is a touchdown-dependent flyer in a complementary role
• If Rico Dowdle (PIT) can’t go — Jaylen Warren is the clear every-down beneficiary while Dowdle is out; Eli Heidenreich is the deep handcuff if Warren were also lost
• If Jaylen Warren (PIT) can’t go — N/A — he is the player benefiting from Dowdle’s absence; Eli Heidenreich would be next man up only if Warren himself were sidelined
• If Rachaad White (WAS) can’t go — Jacory Croskey-Merritt is the clear beneficiary as the lead back; Austin Ekeler is the passing-down/handcuff option behind him
• If Jonathon Brooks (CAR) can’t go — Chuba Hubbard remains the clear CAR1 back; AJ Dillon is the primary backup/handcuff while Brooks is out
• If Trevor Etienne (CAR) can’t go — Minimal – AJ Dillon is already ahead of him on the depth chart
• If Travis Etienne (NO) can’t go — Minimal – Alvin Kamara remains the clear lead back; Kendre Miller and CJ Donaldson are the relevant change-of-pace/handcuff options
• If James Conner (ARI) can’t go — His IR stay keeps rookie Jeremiyah Love entrenched as Cardinals’ clear RB1; Tyler Allgeier is the primary backup/handcuff
• If Trey Benson (ARI) can’t go — His absence has no direct Week 4 fantasy starter impact; it simply means Bam Knight is the RB3/practice-squad-adjacent option behind Love and Allgeier
• If Jadarian Price (SEA) can’t go — George Holani is the primary fantasy beneficiary as the lead early-down/passing-down back in Price’s absence, with Emanuel Wilson in a complementary role
• If Zach Charbonnet (SEA) can’t go — Not yet fantasy-startable; worth a bench stash in deeper leagues given his pass-catching role once healthy, but George Holani is the more immediate Week 4-5 add

How to read this report

• Designations reflect Friday, October 2, 2026 final injury/practice reports where filed.
• Cleveland (CLE) and Pittsburgh (PIT) already played their Week 4 game Thursday night, October 1 — their entries reflect that completed game, not an upcoming one.
• Atlanta (ATL) and New Orleans (NO) play each other Monday night, October 5 — some of their tags may not be finalized until Saturday.
• “No Final Tag Yet” means a real injury concern exists but the club hasn’t filed (or confirmed) an official Week 4 game-status designation as of this report.

Already Played This Week (2)

These players’ games were already decided by Thursday night, before this Friday report — included for full-week context and any waiver-wire fallout.

• Jaylen Warren (PIT, RB1) — RESOLVED (a) Carried a shoulder injury/Questionable tag into Week 3 vs. Cincinnati; fully practiced and carries no game-status designation for Week 4, during which he played as Pittsburgh’s workhorse back in the Thursday loss at Cleveland.
  Injury: Shoulder (Week 3 designation; no longer a concern) (since Week 3, 2026 (~Sept. 25-27)). Typical recovery: Minor shoulder strains typically clear within a week with a normal practice progression, consistent with what was observed here. Expected back: Already resolved — played through it and is fully cleared. Week 4 status: Played full workload Week 4 (game already completed). Next 4 games: Set up for a heavy workload (bellcow role, 17 carries/127 yards + receiving work in Week 3) as long as Dowdle remains sidelined. Fantasy impact: N/A — he is the player benefiting from Dowdle’s absence; Eli Heidenreich would be next man up only if Warren himself were sidelined
• Rico Dowdle (PIT, RB2 (currently inactive)) — OUT (a) Toe injury suffered in the Week 2 game at New England (exited, briefly returned, then was sidelined). Missed Week 3 vs. Cincinnati and was a Did-Not-Practice all three days of Week 4 prep, officially ruled Out for Thursday night’s game at Cleveland (played Oct 1, final score Browns 27, Steelers 24).
  Injury: Toe (turf-toe type sprain) (since Week 2, 2026 (Sept. 2026, at New England)). Typical recovery: Turf-toe sprains typically sideline a back 2-6 weeks; more severe grades can run 6-8+ weeks or require surgery. Expected back: Unclear; with zero practice reps logged across two full injury weeks, a realistic earliest return is Week 5-6. Week 4 status: Did not play Week 4 (already final); trending toward missing additional time. Next 4 games: Likely sidelined for at least the next 1-2 games; even on return, expect a timeshare/complementary role behind Warren rather than an immediate workload surge. Fantasy impact: Jaylen Warren is the clear every-down beneficiary while Dowdle is out; Eli Heidenreich is the deep handcuff if Warren were also lost

Out (9)

Ruled out, on injured reserve, PUP, exempt, or suspended — not expected to play Week 4.

• James Conner (ARI, RB (was lead back; currently IR behind rookie RB1 Jeremiyah Love)) — RESERVE-INJURED(c) On the Cardinals’ injured reserve list; coach Mike LaFleur says Conner is nearing eligibility to return to practice after sitting out four games, but no specific injury type, injury date, or target game was confirmed in available team reporting.
  Injury: unknown (specific body part not disclosed in available team reporting) (since Week N (prior to Week 4; exact date not disclosed)). Typical recovery: unknown. Expected back: Eligible to return to practice around Week 4-5 per team comments; no confirmed return game. Week 4 status: Not expected to play Week 4 vs NYG (on IR). Next 4 games: Remains on IR; team has signaled he is trending toward an eventual practice window opening, but no game is confirmed for his return within the next 4 weeks. Fantasy impact: His IR stay keeps rookie Jeremiyah Love entrenched as Cardinals’ clear RB1; Tyler Allgeier is the primary backup/handcuff
• Trey Benson (ARI, RB (depth/handcuff, behind Jeremiyah Love and Tyler Allgeier)) — RESERVE-INJURED(c) Listed on Cardinals’ injured reserve on the team’s current depth chart; no further team reporting found detailing injury type or timeline.
  Injury: unknown (since Week N (prior to Week 4; exact date not disclosed)). Typical recovery: unknown. Expected back: unknown. Week 4 status: Not expected to play Week 4 vs NYG (on IR). Next 4 games: No team reporting found projecting a return within this window; treat as out indefinitely until further news. Fantasy impact: His absence has no direct Week 4 fantasy starter impact; it simply means Bam Knight is the RB3/practice-squad-adjacent option behind Love and Allgeier
• Jonathon Brooks (CAR, RB2 behind Chuba Hubbard – currently unavailable) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Abdomen injury; on injured reserve, not eligible to play Week 4 vs. Detroit.
  Injury: Abdomen/core (since Week 3, 2026 (approximate)). Typical recovery: Core-muscle/abdomen strains typically cost 3-6 weeks. Expected back: Approx. Week 9 (~Nov 8, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out (IR) for Week 4 and several more weeks. Next 4 games: Not expected back within the next 4 games. Fantasy impact: Chuba Hubbard remains the clear CAR1 back; AJ Dillon is the primary backup/handcuff while Brooks is out
• Trevor Etienne (CAR, Deep-bench RB (RB4) – currently unavailable) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Ankle injury; on injured reserve, not eligible to play Week 4 vs. Detroit.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 2, 2026 (approximate)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains of this severity typically cost 3-6 weeks. Expected back: Approx. Week 6 (~Oct 18, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out (IR) for Week 4. Next 4 games: Could return near the end of the 4-game window. Fantasy impact: Minimal – AJ Dillon is already ahead of him on the depth chart
• Travis Etienne (NO, Depth RB behind Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, and CJ Donaldson – currently unavailable) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Hamstring injury; on injured reserve, not eligible to play Week 4.
  Injury: Hamstring (since Week 2-3, 2026 (approximate)). Typical recovery: Hamstring strains of this severity typically cost 4-8 weeks. Expected back: Approx. Week 9 (~Nov 8, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out (IR) for Week 4 and several more weeks. Next 4 games: Not expected back within the next 4 games. Fantasy impact: Minimal – Alvin Kamara remains the clear lead back; Kendre Miller and CJ Donaldson are the relevant change-of-pace/handcuff options
• Breece Hall (NYJ, RB1 (lead back)) — OUT (a) Quadriceps strain suffered in the Week 3 loss to Detroit; did not practice all week and was ruled out for Week 4 vs. the Bears. Suspected by fantasy analysts as a grade 1-2 quad strain pending full team confirmation.
  Injury: Quadriceps strain (thigh) (since Week 3, 2026 (in-game injury vs. Detroit Lions, reported Sept 28, 2026)). Typical recovery: Grade 1 quad strains typically sideline a player 2-4 weeks; grade 2 strains can run 4-6 weeks. Expected back: Uncertain; outside reporting at the time of his injury pegged him as a 3-6 week recovery, which would put a realistic return around mid-to-late October 2026 (Week 6-7) pending a formal team update. Week 4 status: Will not play Week 4 vs. Chicago. Next 4 games: Expect him sidelined multiple weeks; Braelon Allen takes over as the Jets’ early-down/lead back in the interim with Kene Nwangwu in a passing-down role. Re-check the injury report weekly before trusting a firm return week. Fantasy impact: Braelon Allen is the clear Week 4 beneficiary as the new lead back; Kene Nwangwu is a touchdown-dependent flyer in a complementary role
• Jadarian Price (SEA, RB1) — OUT(a) Officially ruled out for Week 4 vs. the Chargers after aggravating a chest injury during Wednesday practice.
  Injury: Chest (aggravation of an injury originally suffered in Week 2 vs. Arizona) (since Originally Week 2 2026 (vs. Cardinals); re-aggravated in Week 4 practice). Typical recovery: Unknown — HC Mike Macdonald said he does not yet know how long Price will be out. Expected back: Unknown; week-to-week per the coaching staff. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4; next-week status unclear. Next 4 games: Likely to miss at least this week and possibly more; George Holani and Emanuel Wilson (and potentially a practice-squad elevation of Velus Jones Jr.) absorb his touches in the meantime. Fantasy impact: George Holani is the primary fantasy beneficiary as the lead early-down/passing-down back in Price’s absence, with Emanuel Wilson in a complementary role
• Zach Charbonnet (SEA, RB2 (returning from PUP)) — OUT(a) Still working back from a torn ACL suffered in the playoffs; officially not eligible to return to game action until at least next week (Week 5) despite being activated to practice.
  Injury: Knee (torn ACL, from the prior postseason) (since Prior-season playoffs (ACL tear); opened 2026 training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list). Typical recovery: ACL reconstruction typically 9-12 months. Expected back: Earliest possible return is Week 5. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4; eligible to be activated as soon as Week 5. Next 4 games: Expect a worked-back-in role (likely a pass-catching/change-of-pace role) once activated, with George Holani holding the early-down work until Charbonnet is fully up to speed. Fantasy impact: Not yet fantasy-startable; worth a bench stash in deeper leagues given his pass-catching role once healthy, but George Holani is the more immediate Week 4-5 add
• Rachaad White (WAS, RB2) — OUT (a) Shoulder injury; did not practice all week and was ruled out for the Colts game.
  Injury: Shoulder (since Injury flagged in practice ahead of Week 4 (late Sept/early Oct 2026)). Typical recovery: A shoulder sprain/AC joint issue typically costs 1-4 weeks depending on severity. Expected back: Unclear – week-to-week; no firm return date reported. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4. Next 4 games: If the shoulder lingers, Croskey-Merritt keeps the lead-back role with Ekeler as the primary change-of-pace/passing-down piece. Fantasy impact: Jacory Croskey-Merritt is the clear beneficiary as the lead back; Austin Ekeler is the passing-down/handcuff option behind him

Questionable (3)

Game-time decisions as of Friday’s final report — trust your waiver wire just in case.

• Ray Davis (BUF, RB3 (backup/change-of-pace)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Hamstring injury; limited in practice this week ahead of Sunday’s home game vs. New England.
  Injury: Hamstring (since Week 4, 2026 (exact onset date not specified in sources checked)). Typical recovery: Hamstring strains vary widely, typically 1-6 weeks depending on grade; a player still logging limited practice reps is usually on the milder end. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; full clearance timeline not specified in sources checked. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 vs. New England; expected to be a game-time call. Next 4 games: Pure James Cook III handcuff with minimal standalone value; his fantasy relevance is tied entirely to Cook’s own health, not his own hamstring, as long as he’s eventually active. Fantasy impact: If he’s out, Ty Johnson is next in line for change-of-pace/passing-down backfield touches behind James Cook III
• Bucky Irving (TB, RB1 (starter)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Lower-body injury (described variously in reporting as glute/hamstring); limited participant Wednesday and Thursday, carries a Week 4 Questionable tag per CBS Sports’ Friday tracker.
  Injury: Lower body (glute/hamstring area) (since Week 3, 2026 (~Sept 27, 2026 – left the Week 3 game briefly)). Typical recovery: Soft-tissue glute/hamstring strains typically cost 1-3 weeks depending on grade. Expected back: Game-time decision for Week 4; no missed-time return date needed if he plays. Week 4 status: Questionable – game-time decision for Week 4 vs. Green Bay. Next 4 games: If he plays through it, expect a normal workload as the clear TB1 back; any setback would open touches to Kenny Gainwell. Fantasy impact: If Irving sits, Kenny Gainwell is the next man up with Sean Tucker as the deeper option
• Tyjae Spears (TEN, RB2 / passing-down back behind Tony Pollard) — QUESTIONABLE (a) Ankle injury listed on the Week 4 report; practiced fully on Friday.
  Injury: Ankle (since Week 4 (exact date of injury not specified in current reporting)). Typical recovery: Ankle sprains typically cost 1-3 weeks depending on severity; full practice participation suggests a mild issue. Expected back: Week 4 (October 4, 2026) vs. Baltimore Ravens. Week 4 status: Questionable, but full Friday practice points toward playing. Next 4 games: Expected to continue in his passing-down/change-of-pace role behind Tony Pollard if he clears this tag. Fantasy impact: If he sits, Julius Chestnut and Nicholas Singleton would see the change-of-pace/passing-down backfield work behind Pollard

No Final Tag Yet (Monday-Night Clubs) (1)

Carries a real injury concern, but the club hasn’t filed (or confirmed) its final Week 4 tag yet — check back Saturday.

• George Holani (SEA, RB2, elevated to lead-back duties this week) — QUESTIONABLE(b) Carries a rib injury on the practice report (Limited both Wed and Thu) but no confirmed final Friday designation was found; team reporting describes him as the back who will “carry the load” with Price out, implying he is expected to play.
  Injury: Rib (since Week N (prior to Week 4; exact date not disclosed)). Typical recovery: Rib soreness typically does not require missed time absent a fracture. Expected back: Expected to play Week 4 despite the rib notation. Week 4 status: Expected to play and lead Seattle’s backfield Week 4. Next 4 games: Primary early-down back as long as Price (out) and Charbonnet (out, not eligible until Week 5) remain sidelined. Fantasy impact: Direct beneficiary of Jadarian Price’s absence — worth a flex/streaming start and a priority waiver add in Week 4

Cleared / No Game-Status Designation (2)

Managing something, but carries no game-status designation and is expected to play.

• D’Andre Swift (CHI, RB1 (starter)) — NO GAME-STATUS DESIGNATION (b) — missed Thursday’s practice with a knee issue but returned to full practice Friday and carries no injury designation for Week 4.
  Injury: Knee soreness (no structural diagnosis reported) (since This week, late Sept/early Oct 2026, during Week 4 practice prep). Typical recovery: N/A — resolved within the same practice week, no missed game time. Expected back: Already cleared; no missed time. Week 4 status: Expected to play and start Week 4 vs. New York Jets. Next 4 games: No missed time currently expected; worth a quick pregame check given the midweek DNP, but he practiced fully Friday. Fantasy impact: No real handcuff action needed since Swift is cleared; Kyle Monangai is the next man up at RB if Swift were to be a late scratch
• Austin Ekeler (WAS, RB3 (temporarily elevated passing-down role with White out)) — RESOLVED (a) No current injury designation; mentioned here only because he is working back into a larger committee role this week with Rachaad White (shoulder) out. Fully recovered from an Achilles tear suffered during the 2025 season.
  Injury: N/A currently (previously: Achilles tendon, 2025 season – fully recovered) (since N/A for any current injury). Typical recovery: N/A. Expected back: N/A – already active. Week 4 status: Expected to play and see increased work Week 4 with White out. Next 4 games: Role likely expands in the passing game/change-of-pace while White is sidelined. Fantasy impact: Streamable flex/PPR option this week as the pass-catching back behind Croskey-Merritt with White out

Sourcing: NFL.com official injury reports, team-issued injury reports, Ourlads depth charts, and beat-reporter coverage, as of Friday, October 2, 2026.

NFL Week 4 Fantasy Football Injury Report Friday RB first appeared on Game On Media.

Bottom Line Up Front at QB

Three starting quarterbacks are out this week — Jayden Daniels (WAS, elbow), Caleb Williams (CHI, hamstring) and Baker Mayfield (TB, thumb) — while the Giants are moving on from Jaxson Dart for the season after a Week 3 knee injury. Deshaun Watson, back from his Achilles tear, keeps piling up full practices and extends his streak as Cleveland’s clear starter.

This week’s QB report covers 8 players: 1 already played this week, 4 out, 2 questionable, 1 cleared / no game-status designation.

Who is on this report?

Caleb Williams (CHI), Deshaun Watson (CLE), Trey Lance (LAC), Aidan O’Connell (LV), Jaxson Dart (NYG), Baker Mayfield (TB), Jalon Daniels (TB), Jayden Daniels (WAS)

What changed since Week 3

• NEW: Baker Mayfield (TB) — Newly appeared on injury report this week (was healthy/starting through Week 3); downgraded to Out by Friday after DNP all week
• NEW: Jaxson Dart (NYG) — Newly season-ending – injury occurred in Week 3 itself; initial hope for a mid-season return was replaced by a decision to have surgery
• NEW: Trey Lance (LAC) — Newly appeared on the injury report this week

Waiver wire: who gains if these names sit

• If Deshaun Watson (CLE) can’t go — N/A while active; Shedeur Sanders is the primary backup who would start if Watson were ever sidelined
• If Jayden Daniels (WAS) can’t go — Marcus Mariota starts Week 4 and is a streamable option; Daniels remains unownable/bench-only until a full practice week is confirmed
• If Jaxson Dart (NYG) can’t go — Jameis Winston is now the full-time starter and the streamable/backup QB of relevance for Giants fantasy rosters; Dart should be dropped in most redraft leagues
• If Caleb Williams (CHI) can’t go — Ben Johnson has not named a starter between Case Keenum (QB2) and Tyson Bagent (QB3) as of Friday; whichever gets the start becomes a desperation-only streamer, and the uncertainty under center is a modest drag on Bears pass-catchers Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet this week
• If Baker Mayfield (TB) can’t go — Jalon Daniels (rookie) starts in his place; expect a modest dip in volume/efficiency for Egbuka, Godwin, and the TB passing-game pieces until Mayfield returns

How to read this report

• Designations reflect Friday, October 2, 2026 final injury/practice reports where filed.
• Cleveland (CLE) and Pittsburgh (PIT) already played their Week 4 game Thursday night, October 1 — their entries reflect that completed game, not an upcoming one.
• Atlanta (ATL) and New Orleans (NO) play each other Monday night, October 5 — some of their tags may not be finalized until Saturday.
• “No Final Tag Yet” means a real injury concern exists but the club hasn’t filed (or confirmed) an official Week 4 game-status designation as of this report.

Already Played This Week (1)

These players’ games were already decided by Thursday night, before this Friday report — included for full-week context and any waiver-wire fallout.

• Deshaun Watson (CLE, QB1) — NO GAME-STATUS DESIGNATION (b) Not on the Week 4 injury report at all (full practice participation); flagged here because he is less than a year removed from a ruptured-and-re-ruptured Achilles and only reclaimed the Browns’ starting job in August 2026 — a material ongoing fantasy/durability story even with a clean report.
  Injury: Right Achilles tendon rupture (original tear Oct. 20, 2024 vs. Cincinnati; re-ruptured shortly after, repaired via surgery Jan. 9, 2025) (since Oct. 20, 2024 (original); Jan. 9, 2025 (surgery after re-tear)). Typical recovery: Full recovery from a ruptured Achilles typically runs 9-12+ months before a return to competitive snaps. Expected back: Already returned — won the Week 1 2026 starting job over Shedeur Sanders and has started every game through Week 4. Week 4 status: Expected to start Week 5 as the healthy incumbent QB1, barring setback. Next 4 games: No limitations reported through four starts (multi-TD Week 3 outing with 11 rushes for 45 yards vs. Carolina); mobility/workload still worth monitoring given the injury’s severity, but no current red flags. Fantasy impact: N/A while active; Shedeur Sanders is the primary backup who would start if Watson were ever sidelined

Out (4)

Ruled out, on injured reserve, PUP, exempt, or suspended — not expected to play Week 4.

• Caleb Williams (CHI, QB1 (starter)) — OUT (a) Grade 2 right hamstring strain. Did not practice Wednesday or Thursday (walkthrough only reported), no Friday practice participation reported. Officially ruled out for Week 4 vs. the New York Jets — his second consecutive missed start.
  Injury: Right hamstring strain (Grade 2) (since Week 2, 2026 (exact date unclear); has already missed Week 3). Typical recovery: A Grade 2 hamstring strain typically sidelines a player 3-6 weeks. Expected back: Unclear; team has given no firm timeline beyond ‘multi-week.’ Earliest realistic return would be Week 5 (Oct 11) but is not confirmed. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. New York Jets. Next 4 games: Expected to miss additional time beyond Week 4; Chicago has not committed to a return week, so a conservative outlook has him out multiple more games before a clean hamstring allows a return. Fantasy impact: Ben Johnson has not named a starter between Case Keenum (QB2) and Tyson Bagent (QB3) as of Friday; whichever gets the start becomes a desperation-only streamer, and the uncertainty under center is a modest drag on Bears pass-catchers Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet this week
• Jaxson Dart (NYG, Former QB1, now on injured reserve / off the active depth chart) — RESERVE-INJURED (c) Season-ending knee injury suffered on the Giants’ opening offensive drive of the Week 3 Monday night loss to the Rams; will have surgery and is out for the remainder of 2026. He is off the current active depth chart – Jameis Winston has taken over as the starter.
  Injury: Knee (since Week 3 (Monday night, approx. Sept 28/29, 2026, vs. L.A. Rams)). Typical recovery: Season-ending knee surgery recoveries typically run 6-9+ months. Expected back: Not expected back in 2026; timeline would point to availability for the 2027 season. Week 4 status: Out (season-ending) – will not play Week 4 or beyond in 2026. Next 4 games: Out for the rest of the season; Jameis Winston is the Giants’ starter with J.J. McCarthy as the backup. Fantasy impact: Jameis Winston is now the full-time starter and the streamable/backup QB of relevance for Giants fantasy rosters; Dart should be dropped in most redraft leagues
• Baker Mayfield (TB, QB1 (starter) – currently sidelined; Jalon Daniels elevated to starter) — OUT (a) Right thumb injury; did not practice Wednesday or Thursday of Week 4 prep, and the Buccaneers’ official Friday report and CBS Sports’ Week 4 injury tracker both list him as Out for the Packers game. Jalon Daniels has been named the Week 4 starter in his place.
  Injury: Right thumb (since Week 4 practice week (approx. Sept 30, 2026)). Typical recovery: Thumb sprains/fractures in throwing-hand typically require 3-5 weeks depending on severity (ligament sprain vs. fracture). Expected back: Approx. Week 7 (~Oct 25, 2026) per CBS Sports. Week 4 status: Out for Week 4 vs. Green Bay; rookie Jalon Daniels starts. Next 4 games: Likely to miss multiple weeks (through roughly Week 6-7); Jalon Daniels expected to start in the interim, which materially lowers the passing-game floor for Tampa Bay’s pass catchers. Fantasy impact: Jalon Daniels (rookie) starts in his place; expect a modest dip in volume/efficiency for Egbuka, Godwin, and the TB passing-game pieces until Mayfield returns
• Jayden Daniels (WAS, QB1 (currently sidelined)) — OUT (a) Left elbow dislocation suffered in Week 2 vs. Dallas (tripped on a dropback, fell on outstretched arm); imaging showed no fracture or ligament damage, but this is his second dislocation of the same elbow in two seasons. Limited practice participation all week; officially ruled out Friday for the Colts game in London.
  Injury: Left elbow dislocation (since Week 2 (game vs. Dallas Cowboys, approx. Sept 20, 2026)). Typical recovery: Elbow dislocations without fracture/ligament tear typically require 3-6 weeks; a recurrent dislocation in the same joint can run longer. Expected back: Uncertain; HC Dan Quinn says the benchmark is a full, unrestricted week of practice, which has not yet happened as of Week 4 – realistic target is Week 5 or 6. Week 4 status: Will not play Week 4 vs. Colts; Marcus Mariota starts. Next 4 games: Week 4 out; Weeks 5-7 dependent on a clean full practice week – team is being deliberately cautious given the repeat injury, so a Week 5 return is not guaranteed. Fantasy impact: Marcus Mariota starts Week 4 and is a streamable option; Daniels remains unownable/bench-only until a full practice week is confirmed

Questionable (2)

Game-time decisions as of Friday’s final report — trust your waiver wire just in case.

• Trey Lance (LAC, QB2 (backup to Justin Herbert)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) groin injury; Limited Participation in practice this week, officially Questionable per the Friday report.
  Injury: Groin strain (since Week 4 (exact date unclear from available sources)). Typical recovery: Groin strains typically require 1-3 weeks depending on severity. Expected back: Expected recovery within 1-2 weeks regardless of whether he plays through it Week 4. Week 4 status: Questionable, but irrelevant to the starting lineup — Justin Herbert (QB1) is healthy and the expected starter. Next 4 games: No fantasy relevance as a clipboard-holding backup unless Herbert is sidelined. Fantasy impact: None in standard 1-QB leagues — DJ Uiagalelei is QB3; only matters if Herbert is hurt
• Aidan O’Connell (LV, QB2 (backup to Kirk Cousins)) — QUESTIONABLE (a) personal matter, non-injury; Did Not Participate Thursday and is listed Questionable for Week 4 for a non-physical reason rather than an injury.
  Injury: N/A — non-injury personal absence, not a physical injury (since Week 4 (reported starting Thursday, Oct 1, 2026)). Typical recovery: N/A — not an injury. Expected back: Unclear; status is day-to-day pending resolution of the personal matter. Week 4 status: Questionable for Week 4 vs. Kansas City; does not affect the starting QB spot. Next 4 games: No material fantasy relevance — Kirk Cousins is the clear-cut starter and is healthy. Fantasy impact: None in a 1-QB league since starter Kirk Cousins is healthy and expected to play

Cleared / No Game-Status Designation (1)

Managing something, but carries no game-status designation and is expected to play.

• Jalon Daniels (TB, QB2, elevated to starter) — NO GAME-STATUS DESIGNATION (a) Healthy; elevated to starting quarterback for Week 4 because Baker Mayfield (thumb) is Out.
  Injury: N/A – not injured (since N/A). Typical recovery: N/A. Expected back: N/A (active). Week 4 status: Expected to start Week 4 vs. Green Bay. Next 4 games: Likely to remain the starter for as long as Mayfield is out (roughly through Week 6-7). Fantasy impact: First career start for a rookie QB behind a line and skill group adjusting to a new passer; treat TB pass-catchers with slightly lowered weekly expectations until proven

Sourcing: NFL.com official injury reports, team-issued injury reports, Ourlads depth charts, and beat-reporter coverage, as of Friday, October 2, 2026.

NFL Week 4 Fantasy Football Injury Report Friday QB first appeared on Game On Media.