Christian McCaffrey, running back for the San Francisco 49ers, missed the final regular season game due to a calf strain. Fortunately, the injury is not deemed serious, and after benefiting from a bye week, McCaffrey is expected to be nearly fully fit for the upcoming game against Green Bay’s weaker run defense.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ quarterback Baker Mayfield played through rib and ankle injuries to lead a successful game against the Eagles. He reported no further issues and is set to start in the upcoming game in Detroit.
Detroit Lions’ tight end Sam LaPorta surprisingly took part in Sunday’s game, even scoring while wearing a knee brace. Although likely to have a reduced training schedule, he’s expected to be ready for the Divisional Round.
Baltimore Ravens’ tight end Mark Andrews is returning to practice after missing six games. His return this week is highly anticipated, especially against a Houston defense that’s been vulnerable to tight ends.
Green Bay Packers’ running back A.J. Dillon was sidelined for the Dallas game due to neck and hand injuries. His participation in practice ahead of the San Francisco game will be closely monitored.
Wide receiver Noah Brown of the Houston Texans, after overcoming a back injury, suffered a shoulder injury that led to limited play in Houston’s Wild Card victory over Cleveland. He has been placed on Injured Reserve, ending his season.
Christian Watson, wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, participated in 41% of the snaps in the Dallas game, his first in five games, without any setbacks. An increase in his playtime is anticipated in the next game.
Buffalo Bills’ wide receiver Gabe Davis, who missed the Wild Card round due to a PCL sprain, is uncertain for the game against the Chiefs, and his performance, even when fit, should be approached with caution.
Kadarius Toney of the Kansas City Chiefs, out for the last three games with hip and ankle injuries, engaged in limited practice before the Wild Card round. His practice activity this week will be under scrutiny for updates.
Tyler Higbee, the Los Angeles Rams’ tight end, may have sustained a serious knee injury in the Wild Card loss in Detroit. A potential torn ACL could jeopardize his early availability for 2024.
Los Angeles Rams’ running back Kyren Williams, despite leaving the Detroit game with a hand injury, should be unaffected next season and remains a top fantasy draft choice.
Philadelphia Eagles’ wide receiver A.J. Brown, who missed playing in Tampa due to a knee injury, is expected to return as a top receiver next summer.
