NFL Player News

Shrader joined the Colts as an undrafted free agent rookie last year before briefly spending time on both the Jets and Chiefs’ rosters. A right-leg hamstring strain sidelined him at the end of the season but, on the season, he converted 5-of-5 field goals and 9-of-9 extra points. The Athletic’s James Boyd notes that incumbent K Matt Gay remains on the roster, and that the signing was done “to promote more competition throughout the roster.” The team can save $4 million by cutting Gay after June 1.

As expected, David Njoku also remained out of practice. Njoku is likely out for Week 18, while head coach Kevin Stefanski is leaving the light on for Fannin. With the Browns only playing for a better draft pick, there isn’t much reason to push either player to suit up on Sunday. Backup tight ends Blake Whiteheart and Sal Cannella would be in line for more work if both starting options are ruled out.

The Patriots are still fighting for the No. 1 seed in the AFC and the bye that comes with it. They need to win versus Miami and the Broncos need to lose to the Chargers. With Justin Herbert out for Week 18, the second leg of that parlay is looking rather unlikely. Still, Drake Maye and company will be out there on Sunday, though we suspect he will be on a shorter leash than usual. If the game isn’t close at halftime or the end of the third quarter, expect Vrabel to be quick to pull some of the team’s big names.

Barmore is charged with one count of assault and battery on a family/household member. His arraignment is set for February. Mike Vrabel told reporters today he has not heard anything that would prevent Barmore from playing in Week 18. The NFL will likely let the legal process play out before stepping in.

Diggs is facing felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery charges. His arraignment is set for January 23rd. Barmore has an arraignment in February that stems from an alleged domestic incident in August. Things could change with both players as these stories develop, but the legal process is slow and the NFL may ultimately wait to step in until that process plays out. For now, both players appear to be available for NFL’s postseason.

Cook has done very little to elevate the Jets’ offense in his three starts so far. He’s had less than 200 passing yards in all three games and has one touchdown to seven interceptions. He’ll get one more chance to make a lasting impression on the new Jets’ regime in Week 18 against the Bills.

Not much has changed since Quinn met with reporters Monday. Mariota still isn’t practicing and his coach called him a long-shot to play and even added that he’s “likely doubtful.” Barring a miraculous recovery, Josh Johnson will be under center for Washington in Week 18 against the Eagles.

Willis left Week 17’s loss with a shoulder injury, though he impressed with 288 yards passing, 60 yards rushing and three total touchdowns against the Ravens. Clayton Tune finished out the game with Willis and Jordan Love sidelined. With Love still in the NFL’s concussion protocol and the Packers locked into the No. 7 seed in the NFC Playoffs, Willis could start again in Week 18 against the Vikings if he’s healthy enough.

LaFluer also confirmed that the Packers plan on resting some of their starters in Week 18 against the Vikings. It makes plenty of sense with Green Bay already locked into the No. 7 seed in the NFC Playoffs. Love would seem to be a prime candidate to get the week off even if he clears concussion protocol in time this week.

Burden was carted off the field after injuring his quad on the last play of the Bears’ Week 17 loss to the 49ers. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported earlier this week that the injury isn’t thought to be serious. Johnson’s comments Wednesday seem to confirm that report. With the Bears hopeful Burden can play against the Lions this week, he’ll likely be available for the playoffs even if he’s ultimately held out this week.

The Bills will hold a walkthrough Wednesday, though their quarterback won’t participate. McDermott reiterated that Allen is moving in the right direction. It’s good news, though Buffalo can probably get by the Jets with Allen only playing some of the game. He’s certainly at risk to get benched late, which is worth considering for those still in active fantasy leagues.