NFL Week 4 injury roundup (Getty Images)
The NFL’s Week 4 injury list could have a real effect on several teams heading into Week 5. The Bengals fell to 2-2 after losing to Jacksonville, then watched their biggest offensive weapon leave with a concussion. His availability for Week 5 will depend on how he progresses through the league’s steps. Jackson suffered an ankle injury during the Ravens’ Week 4 win over Tennessee and was seen wearing a walking boot afterward.
Kansas City lost Tyquan Thornton to a serious ankle injury, Arizona’s Paris Johnson Jr. is out for the season, and Green Bay’s Edgerrin Cooper also suffered a season-ending Achilles tear. Ja’Marr Chase is in concussion protocol, Saquon Barkley is dealing with a hamstring injury and Lamar Jackson has an ankle issue that has already left him in a walking boot. Those are not the only concerns. The next few days will be important as teams wait for updates on key players. Chase’s injury could be particularly costly for Cincinnati. Chase did not return after being evaluated and is now in the NFL’s concussion protocol. Cincinnati also has another concern at receiver. Tee Higgins suffered an adductor injury and is considered day-to-day, leaving the Bengals potentially short on their top two pass catchers. Philadelphia has its own offensive issue with Barkley. The Eagles running back suffered a hamstring injury against the Los Angeles Rams and is now considered week-to-week. Barkley’s workload has already drawn attention this season, so the timing of the injury adds another layer to Philadelphia’s situation. The Eagles will need to be careful with a player whose explosiveness is central to their offense. Baltimore has received some relief on that front, at least for now. That image naturally raised concern about the quarterback’s availability. However, the injury is currently considered day-to-day. That gives Baltimore some hope that Jackson will avoid an extended absence, although his practice participation will likely be closely watched throughout the week.