While the injury list is shorter than it has been in previous weeks, the status of a number of key performers, most notably Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, remains in jeopardy for this weekend's NFL contests. Johnson played in last week's win over the New York Jets, but at times acted as a decoy rather than the league's most feared receiving threat due to lingering effects of his ankle injury.
Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson expected to play Sunday
In his weekly column, SB Nation Medical Expert Dr. Ali Mohamadi gives insight into the most notable injuries in the fantasy landscape and how they might affect your roster decisions for Week 4.
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He’s been sidelined most of this week in practice due to the pain and decreased range of motion associated with the injury. On Friday, head coach Jim Caldwell expressed concern that Megatron may not suit up for Sunday’s 1 p.m. game against Buffalo. Keep a close eye on Johnson’s status following pregame warmups. Although it appears he is likely to play, a setback prior to the game would change his status, and the fates of many a fantasy owner.
Odell Beckham, WR, NYG -- The Giants' heralded rookie will take the field for the first time in the regular season after suffering a hamstring injury in the preseason. Beckham has remained limited in practice this week, but the Giants reportedly plan to give him a full dose on Sunday. Although he may not be a viable fantasy option just yet, keep a close eye on his performance; Beckham may be a steal once he gets his legs under him.
Eric Decker, WR, NYJ -- The Jets receiver missed multiple practices this week due to a hamstring injury he suffered three weeks ago, and though it hasn't kept him out of game action yet, it appears to be a serious concern for Week 5. Hamstring injuries are notoriously prone to aggravation if an athlete tests it before a full recovery, and his lack of practice activity may be a red flag. If Decker can't go against the Chargers, Jeremy Kerley, Greg Salas and David Nelson would likely see more Geno Smith passes come their way.
Andre Johnson, WR, HOU -- The Texans veteran has been hobbled in practice this week with an ankle injury, but will reportedly play Sunday in a Lone Star State showdown in Dallas. Early indications are that Johnson is suffering from a low grade ankle sprain, which typically requires anywhere from 1-4 weeks of recovery time.
Vernon Davis, TE, SF -- The 49ers tight end has had a rough start to the season, first suffering an ankle injury. Then, back spasms forced him out of last week's win over Philadelphia and have persisted throughout the week. He didn't sound overly optimistic earlier in the week, but he is officially listed as questionable on the team's injury list for Sunday's home showdown with the Chiefs.
Jordan Reed, TE, WAS -- The talented but injury-prone second-year TE has missed the past three games due to a hamstring strain suffered on his first and only catch of the season in Week 1. This week, he practiced on a limited basis for the first time. Reed was held out of practice Friday as a precaution, and his status for Monday night's matchup with Seattle could very well be decided Sunday. With backup Niles Paul deemed ready to play after suffering a concussion last week against the Giants, don't be surprised if Jay Gruden opts to rest Reed one more week to ensure that the hamstring is completely healed before heading back into action.
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