As NFL Week 13 approaches, key quarterbacks C.J. Stroud and Baker Mayfield are set to start for their respective teams. Stroud has cleared concussion protocol and will lead the Houston Texans against the Indianapolis Colts, while Mayfield is expected to take the field for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Official inactives for Sunday will begin to be announced approximately 90 minutes before kickoff, around 11:30 a.m. ET for early games and 2:30 p.m. ET for later matches. Fantasy football players should stay updated as teams confirm their rosters, ensuring that they do not start players who will not be in action.
Key Injury Updates and Expectations
In addition to the starting quarterbacks, several players are under scrutiny this week. Bam Knight, running back for the Arizona Cardinals, is expected to play despite dealing with a knee issue. With Emari Demercado out due to an ankle injury and Trey Benson not ready to return, Knight and Michael Carter are the only running back options available.
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is also anticipated to return after recently recovering from an appendectomy. However, it is possible that Michael Wilson may receive more targets. Meanwhile, Jerome Ford of the Cleveland Browns has been downgraded throughout the week due to a hamstring injury, leading to expectations that he may sit out. Should he play, he may find his role diminished as Quinshon Judkins has stepped up in the backfield.
Notable Players and Game-Time Decisions
In further developments, C.J. Stroud will be key for the Texans as he returns from a concussion. His performance will be crucial against the Colts, who are looking to improve their standing in the division.
On the injury front, Tyler Warren, tight end for the Indianapolis Colts, is also a game-time decision due to an illness. If he cannot play, Mo Alie-Cox may step in to fill the void.
For the Miami Dolphins, Darren Waller has been activated from injured reserve and will be making his return on Sunday, marking his first game since October 19. Meanwhile, wide receiver Chris Olave of the New Orleans Saints has been dealing with back spasms but is expected to play.
The New York Jets will be closely monitoring Allen Lazard, who is dealing with a neck injury. Should he be unable to compete, a mix of Isaiah Williams, Arian Smith, and Tyler Johnson will vie for wide receiver targets.
For the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield has taken all first-team reps and is anticipated to start. He will likely target Chris Godwin Jr., who is off the injury report after recovering from a fibula injury.
As Sunday approaches, players like Bucky Irving and Chig Okonkwo will be assessed further, with their status uncertain. While Drake London of the Atlanta Falcons has been ruled out due to a knee injury, the team will continue to rely on Darnell Mooney as their primary receiver.
For fantasy managers, the ongoing updates will be crucial in finalizing lineups before the action kicks off. It is advisable to watch for late-breaking news as teams finalize their rosters.
