In a significant development for Week 11, several NFL teams face challenges as key players are ruled out due to injuries. Helped create significant output by the likes of C.J. Stroud, Joe Burrow, and Darius Slayton, forcing opposing teams to make major adjustments. The Houston Texans and New York Giants are the most affected, as both of their starting quarterbacks and wide receivers are out.
C.J. Stroud still hasn’t practiced this week because of his concussion, so this is a big flash point for the Texans. In his absence, Davis Mills will be the starting quarterback moving forward. The New York football Giants will be taking a different approach this week. They need a new game plan with Darius Slayton’s hamstring injury forcing him to miss last Sunday.
Quarterback Changes
CJ Stroud’s concussion has already sidelined the Texans’ starter, thrusting Davis Mills into the starting role long term. Having previously served as the Texans’ offensive coordinator, Mills will be familiar with stepping up to keep the Texans competitive with their opponents. His performance will be key as the Texans look to tread water in a brutal matchup without their rookie sensation.
For Ole Miss, quarterback Jaxson Dart will not be available due to a concussion. Because of this decision, Jameis Winston will be the starter when he steps on the field. That said, Russell Wilson, as had previously been rumored, will definitely NOT be stepping into the new role. Winston will need to be at the top of his game, at least until Dart clears concussion protocol and is back in action. This brief glimpse into a chaotic week illustrates the constant uncertainty that surrounds player health in pro football, and what it can do to a locker room.
Impact on Skill Positions
With Darius Slayton unlikely to play, this opens the door for some of the other wide receivers on the Giants roster to step up. With Slayton out due to a hamstring injury, both Jalin Hyatt and Isaiah Hodgins may see increased targets in the upcoming game. This shift affects the players’ statistics and alters the game plan for the Giants as they seek to capitalize on the opportunities presented by Slayton’s injury.
Moreover, the Texans are having their own special teams struggles with kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn out with a quad injury. Matthew Wright will take over kicking duties while Fairbairn recovers. The value of dependable kicking can’t be overstated, particularly in low-scoring games or those decided by one possession.
Other Notable Injuries
Joe Burrow’s toe injury has kept him out all of this week. There’s optimism that he’ll return in time for Week 13. With Burrow on the mend, Joe Flacco will retain his starting quarterback duties for the time being. Flacco’s experience might prove to be the most important element for the Bengals as they learn to build their battleplan without their seasoned army general under center.
One of the other biggest injury report Sam LaPorta has been placed on injury reserve with a back injury. Detroit Lions activate Cade Stover from IR. If he gets geared up for the game, he could be the backup. This latest development is a reminder of the lack of depth teams have to deal with as injuries accumulate.
Bucky Irving’s shoulder injury has ruled him out for this week’s action, adding to the list of players who will not be taking the field.
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