Jake Ferguson’s Injury Opens Door for Jalen Tolbert to Shine in Week 2 Showdown
Category: NFL
Cowboys Elevate Nick Vigil and Princeton Fant for Week 2 Against the Saints
On Saturday, the Dallas Cowboys revealed their practice squad elevations for Week 2 as they prepare to face the New Orleans Saints. For the second consecutive week, the team has called up linebacker Nick Vigil, who made an impact in Week 1 by playing in 69% of the special teams snaps. Vigil also saw significant defensive action late in the game against the Cleveland Browns when linebacker Eric Kendricks exited due to hydration issues.
In addition to Vigil, the Cowboys have promoted tight end Princeton Fant, as Jake Ferguson deals with an injury. Fant’s elevation provides necessary depth at the tight end position for this crucial Week 2 matchup.
Questions Arise About Dalvin Cook’s Future
The practice squad moves have led to increased speculation about the Cowboys’ plans for their high-profile running back, Dalvin Cook. Cook, who joined the Cowboys after a disappointing season with the New York Jets where he averaged just 3.2 yards per carry, remains on the practice squad. Despite his illustrious name, his current role raises questions about whether the Cowboys see him as a future contributor.
While Cook’s place on the practice squad has sparked uncertainty, it’s unclear if the team’s plan is to keep him in a backup role for the entirety of the season, or to eventually get him game-ready and integrate him into the offense.
Mike McCarthy Offers Hints on Cook’s Status
Head coach Mike McCarthy was vague but optimistic when discussing Cook’s progress earlier in the week. “Dalvin is doing great. He fits in. Hopefully, we can get a full week’s work this week and next week. I’m glad he’s here,” McCarthy told reporters.
His comments suggest that while Cook may not be ready for a prominent role immediately, the coaching staff is monitoring his development closely.
Running Back Room: Leaning on Elliott and Dowdle
For now, the Cowboys are relying on Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle to carry the load in the running game. Both players have shown potential, but the coaching staff also intends to give rookie Deuce Vaughn more opportunities. A difficult second half in Week 1 prevented Vaughn from seeing more action against the Browns, but his speed and versatility could provide a spark for the Cowboys in upcoming games.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how the running back room will evolve, and whether Cook will rise from the practice squad to play a more pivotal role.
Lions to Debut New ‘One Pride’ Uniform in Week 2 Matchup Against Buccaneers
The Detroit Lions are set to showcase their updated “One Pride” uniforms in their Week 2 clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, following their debut of the all-blue “blueberries” look in Week 1. This new uniform features a stylish combination of blue tops and silver pants, marking a modern twist on the Lions’ classic colors.
Team president Rod Wood shared insights into the design during a speech at the Detroit Economic Club earlier this year. “Our goal was to honor the past,” Wood explained. “We have great colors and history, but we also wanted to modernize them. The new uniforms blend tradition with a contemporary edge, aiming to establish a standout look for the next five years.”
In addition to the uniform reveal, the Lions are marking Latino Heritage Month at Ford Field. This initiative offers fans a chance to engage with and learn about Latino culture, notable figures, and historical contributions, further enriching the game-day experience.
Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles highlighted the significance of the upcoming game against the Lions as a key early-season benchmark. “This matchup will serve as a good measure of our progress,” Bowles said. “Both teams have evolved, with new players and strategies. Although the Lions are a strong team, we need to stay focused and prepared as we face a competitive schedule.”
As the Lions and Buccaneers prepare for their showdown, all eyes will be on how Detroit’s new uniforms and the game itself will set the tone for the remainder of the season.
49ers Escape Punishment as NFL Clears Them of Injury Report Violation in McCaffrey Absence
The San Francisco 49ers faced scrutiny when All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey missed their Week 1 victory over the New York Jets due to a calf and Achilles injury. Despite McCaffrey’s absence, the team was questioned for not fully disclosing the injury to the league, sparking concerns about transparency.
After the game, running back Jordan Mason revealed that he had known days in advance that he would be starting in McCaffrey’s place. This admission raised eyebrows, suggesting that 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan might have withheld key information regarding McCaffrey’s injury status.
However, on Friday, the NFL announced that there was no conclusive evidence showing that the 49ers violated the league’s injury reporting policy. Despite the suspicions, the investigation cleared the team of any wrongdoing, to the dismay of some critics who felt a more thorough punishment was warranted.
Though the controversy lingers for some, particularly among Jets fans who are still reeling from their 32-19 loss, the NFL’s decision to close the case without any penalty leaves little room for further debate. Meanwhile, the focus shifts back to the field as the Jets begin their quest to recover from their 0-1 start.
The debate over the handling of injury reports extended beyond the 49ers, with ESPN pundits expressing their dissatisfaction. “Stugotz” from “The Dan LeBatard Show” was particularly vocal, calling for Jets head coach Robert Saleh to be fired after the loss. “Robert Saleh should be fired,” he said, suggesting the Jets may soon face more challenges if their losing streak continues.
In a surprising twist leading up to the game, McCaffrey, who had been listed as questionable due to his calf and Achilles issues, was ruled out. The team had previously downplayed the extent of his injuries, but his absence on Monday Night Football became a decisive factor in the game’s outcome.
While the McCaffrey drama unfolded, Jets star Garrett Wilson turned his attention to college football, offering a sharp critique of his alma mater’s rival Michigan after their big loss to Texas, further fueling the rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State fans.
Jalen Hurts Proposes to College Sweetheart Bry Burrows After Historic NFL Game
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has capped off a memorable week with an even more personal and life-changing moment. After making history by playing in the NFL’s first-ever game in South America during Week 1 against the Green Bay Packers, Hurts surprised his longtime love, Bry Burrows, with a heartfelt marriage proposal. The intimate moment came soon after the game, making an already unforgettable event even more special.
Hurts, 25, shared the joyful news during an interview with Essence, describing the proposal as a moment he had envisioned for a long time. “I knew a long time ago,” Hurts said, reflecting on his journey with Burrows. “To this point in my life, that’s an irreplaceable feeling. I think that’s what allowed us to get to where we are now.” The quarterback’s heartfelt words gave fans a glimpse into the deep bond the couple shares.
The proposal itself was nothing short of romantic, with rose petals, candles, and a violinist setting the scene. Hurts made sure every detail was perfect as he asked Burrows, his college sweetheart, to be his forever. Fans had been speculating about the couple’s engagement when Burrows was spotted before the Eagles-Packers game sporting a sparkling diamond ring on her finger.
The couple’s love story goes back to their college days at the University of Alabama, where Hurts played quarterback for the Crimson Tide. Their connection deepened over the years, both excelling in their respective fields while maintaining a strong relationship. Both Hurts and Burrows are proud members of the Divine Nine, an influential group of Black Greek-letter organizations. Hurts belongs to Omega Psi Phi, while Burrows is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha.
Although they kept their relationship largely private for years, Hurts and Burrows went public with their love in 2023. That same year, Hurts led the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game and helped the team advance to Super Bowl LVII, marking a career milestone for the rising star. As Hurts’ career soared, his relationship with Burrows remained a grounding force in his life.
Now in his fifth season with the Eagles, Hurts continues to shine on and off the field. He finished the 2023 season with a career-best 3,858 passing yards and 23 touchdowns, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. And while his accomplishments on the field are noteworthy, Hurts’ engagement to Burrows has become the most personal victory of his journey.
As the couple embarks on this new chapter of their lives, fans can’t help but celebrate with them. From college sweethearts to lifelong partners, Jalen Hurts and Bry Burrows are proof that love, much like football, requires dedication, teamwork, and a shared vision of the future.
NFLPA and NFL Clash Over Medical Treatment Dispute Following Chiefs-Ravens Game
Chiefs Respond to Van Noy’s Criticism
The Kansas City Chiefs had kept a low profile after Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy expressed sharp criticism regarding the team’s medical response to an eye injury he sustained during the NFL season opener at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. However, on Friday, Chiefs trainer Rick Burkholder broke his silence, addressing Van Noy’s grievances head-on from the media room at the team’s practice facility in Kansas City.
Burkholder responded forcefully to Van Noy’s criticism, emphasizing his respect for the Ravens and their medical staff. “We respect the Ravens, respect their medical staff,” Burkholder stated. “I respect Kyle as a player and I’m pretty upset that he was upset. I’ve talked at length with their doctors and actually exchanged text messages with (Ravens coach) John Harbaugh to clear the air.”
Details of the Medical Response
Van Noy, who appeared on his podcast “McCoy and Van Noy” on Wednesday, had labeled the Chiefs’ medical staff’s handling of his injury as “unprofessional.” The 33-year-old linebacker voiced his disappointment, saying, “When you get hurt, especially something that could be serious like mine was, you’re supposed to rely on the (home) team’s training staff or their doctors. They took an entire quarter to get down to talk to me in the locker room, which to me is unacceptable. Because then you start thinking, ‘What if I was trying to go back in the game? What if I was really, really hurt?’”
Burkholder addressed these concerns directly, clarifying the situation. “It’s not mandated in the NFL to have an ophthalmologist or a dentist in the stands,” Burkholder explained. “We do that as a courtesy to both teams. It’s not mandated by the NFL or the NFLPA.” He further detailed the sequence of events, stating, “When he went down, I went out there because I thought he had a head or neck injury. I asked their physician if they needed an ophthalmologist. They didn’t at the time. They evaluated him, and then when they wanted an ophthalmologist we made a phone call up into the stands and got the ophthalmologist to the locker room in 12 minutes.”
Despite Burkholder’s detailed explanation, he did not take questions from the press following his remarks. Meanwhile, NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell supported Van Noy’s position, asserting that on-site medical treatment should be administered “as quickly as possible” and suggesting that the situation fell short of this standard.
In response, the NFL criticized the NFLPA’s stance. “It’s disappointing the NFLPA would publicize unsupported conclusions without attempting to understand the facts,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said. “We have reviewed the case with the Chiefs’ and Ravens’ medical staffs and are comfortable he received appropriate care.”
The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of medical management in high-stakes NFL games and underscores the importance of clear communication between teams and their medical personnel.
Battered Buccaneers Face Lions Without Key Starters, Including Winfield and Kancey
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are heading into a challenging matchup against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, missing at least three of their key starters. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed on Friday that defensive tackle and 2023 first-round pick Calijah Kancey, All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr., and right tackle Luke Goedeke will not be available for the game. Additionally, reserve cornerback Josh Hayes is also ruled out, leaving the team thin in key defensive positions.
Cornerback Zyon McCollum, who suffered a concussion during last week’s season opener, remains questionable. Although he has been practicing all week, McCollum still needs to clear the league’s concussion protocol before being declared fit to play. Defensive end Logan Hall, who missed last week’s game due to a foot injury, is also listed as questionable. “Zyon has some tests to pass. We’ll see how Logan feels tomorrow,” Bowles explained. He added that McCollum has been working hard but emphasized the importance of passing the necessary tests, which he does not oversee.
The team is also facing uncertainty with starting nickelback Tykee Smith, who missed practice on both Thursday and Friday due to an illness. Bowles provided a brief update on Smith’s condition, stating, “He’s ill right now. We’ll see how he is tomorrow.” The Buccaneers are hoping for positive news before the game, but Smith’s status remains in doubt.
Kancey, who injured his left calf last Friday, joins Winfield and Goedeke on the sidelines. Winfield sprained his foot and ankle during last Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders, while Goedeke sustained a concussion in the same game. Hayes, dealing with an ankle injury, is also out. The absence of these players has forced the team to shuffle their lineup, with Justin Skule stepping in for Goedeke at right tackle, and Christian Izien, who took over at outside cornerback in the second half last week, expected to start in Winfield’s place. Should Smith be unavailable, Bowles mentioned that Kaevon Merriweather could fill in at safety, while Tavierre Thomas might take over at nickelback.
Bowles acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, saying, “Guys make this team for a reason. Everybody’s gonna go through their lumps at some point. Better now than midseason, give some young guys and give some other guys some experience that could help us later on, so we’re gonna go with what we got.” The Buccaneers will rely on their depth to make up for the missing starters, and Bowles has expressed confidence in their ability to execute.
If McCollum cannot clear concussion protocol, rookie Tyrek Funderburk, an undrafted free agent out of Appalachian State, will likely get the starting nod. Funderburk was inactive last week but has been preparing for a bigger role. Additionally, the Buccaneers re-signed cornerback Keenan Isaac, who was recently with the Carolina Panthers after being cut by the Bucs following the preseason. Bowles expressed confidence in both Funderburk and Isaac, stating, “They know the system. They’ve been through all the training camp and everything. So I’m confident they’ll play the calls and do what they’re supposed to do.”
This injury-riddled Bucs team faces a tough challenge, especially considering the Lions beat them twice last year, including a 31-23 victory in the NFC divisional round of the playoffs. Despite the setbacks, the Buccaneers will be hoping their replacements can step up and deliver in a critical early-season game.
McCaffrey’s Injury Update Brings Hope as 49ers’ Ground Game Thrives
Despite missing their star running back, the 49ers’ ground attack didn’t lose a step, thanks to the efforts of third-year player Jordan Mason. Filling in for the injured Christian McCaffrey, Mason carried the load with 147 rushing yards and a touchdown, averaging a solid 5.3 yards per play.
Whether this performance highlights Mason’s individual talent or showcases the effectiveness of running behind All-Pro tackle Trent Williams in Kyle Shanahan’s dynamic offensive system is up for debate. Regardless, Mason’s contributions earned him well-deserved recognition.
Still, the 49ers’ offense isn’t quite the same without McCaffrey, who brings a unique combination of skills both as a runner and a receiver. The three-time First Team All-Pro remains one of the league’s most versatile and dangerous offensive weapons, making his absence felt throughout San Francisco’s playbook.
The team was understandably concerned when initial reports suggested McCaffrey might miss more time than expected. However, according to Underdog NFL, recent updates provide a more optimistic outlook.
Christian McCaffrey Back at Practice, Could Return for Week 2?
Before getting too excited, it’s essential to remember that practice doesn’t guarantee game-time action. But head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed that if it had been a playoff game, McCaffrey likely would have played, indicating the injury might be more manageable than feared. For Niners fans, any sign of progress, especially when dealing with a potentially serious Achilles issue, is welcome news.
Further lifting spirits, McCaffrey himself expressed confidence in his recovery. Speaking with ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, the standout back made his mindset clear:
“My mentality is that I’m playing this week. That’s where I’m at. That’s how I approach every game. As soon as a player starts thinking, ‘Maybe I’ll play, maybe I won’t,’ that’s not the right mindset. So for me, I’m ready to go.”
Even if McCaffrey is 80-85% fit, the 49ers may still opt to play it safe. With a Week 2 matchup against Minnesota on the horizon—where they’re favored by five points—risking further injury may not be worth it. Especially when Mason’s strong showing has proven that the team can still thrive in McCaffrey’s absence.
Detroit Lions Injury Report Reveals Key Players Questionable for Week 2 Against Buccaneers
The Detroit Lions emerged from their Week 1 victory against the Los Angeles Rams with some injuries.
Heading into Week 2’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, several key players have shown up on the injury report. Offensive tackle Penei Sewell, defensive end Marcus Davenport, wide receiver Jameson Williams, and safety Kerby Joseph are among those affected. Sewell, Davenport, and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu missed their second consecutive practice on Thursday, while Joseph, who had missed Wednesday’s session, was back on the field. Sewell’s injury is an ankle issue from the opener, though he played the entire game. Davenport is dealing with a groin injury, Melifonwu has an ankle problem, and Joseph has a hamstring injury.
Williams was listed as limited on Wednesday but participated in practice again. He is also struggling with an ankle issue. Wide receiver Isaiah Williams joined the injury report on Thursday.
Cornerback Carlton Davis, defensive tackle DJ Reader, and Loren Strickland were full participants in practice. Reader is expected to make his Lions debut on Sunday. Strickland missed last week’s game with a thumb injury, and Melifonwu’s status remains uncertain after missing the opener.
Cowboys Face Tight End Dilemma: Ferguson Injury Spurs Tight End Committee Approach
The Dallas Cowboys kicked off the season with a 33-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns, but their win came with a setback.
Star tight end Jake Ferguson suffered a knee injury during the game, leading to fears of significant damage. Ferguson himself felt a pop and worried about the worst.
Injury Update
Fortunately, further tests revealed Ferguson has a Grade 1 MCL sprain and a minor bone bruise. He is listed as day-to-day for practice this week and might be available for the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. However, considering the Baltimore Ravens are set to visit Arlington in Week 3, resting Ferguson for an additional week might be prudent.
Tight End by Committee
If Ferguson cannot play, the Cowboys will adopt a tight end-by-committee approach. With no single backup capable of replicating Ferguson’s production, multiple players will need to step up.
Luke Schoonmaker
The primary candidate to fill the gap is second-round pick Luke Schoonmaker. Despite an underwhelming rookie season, Schoonmaker is now expected to take on a more significant role. With former teammate Peyton Hendershot now in Kansas City, Schoonmaker must demonstrate he can handle increased responsibilities and contribute effectively.
John Stephens Jr.
John Stephens Jr., another second-year player, also stands to benefit from Ferguson’s absence. However, Stephens is currently dealing with a strained hamstring and missed the game against Cleveland. Known for his unique athleticism and size—standing over 6’5″—Stephens has the potential to be a valuable asset if he can recover quickly.
Hunter Luepke
Unexpectedly, fullback Hunter Luepke could play a role in replacing Ferguson. Luepke has worked as a tight end in practice and has shown promise. His versatility allows him to block, line up as an inline tight end, or even function as a receiver. Despite being the Cowboys’ third-leading receiver against the Browns, his expanded role could help mitigate the impact of Ferguson’s absence.
Brevyn Spann-Ford
Rookie undrafted free agent Brevyn Spann-Ford is another option. Although he did not receive a target in the game against Cleveland, he played more snaps than Schoonmaker. Standing 6’7″, Spann-Ford presents a matchup challenge but needs to refine his receiving skills to approach Ferguson’s level of production.
With Jake Ferguson’s status uncertain, the Cowboys will rely on a combination of tight ends to fill the void. Schoonmaker, Stephens, Luepke, and Spann-Ford will each play a role in maintaining the team’s offensive efficiency.