This week, as the NFL prepares for its Week 18 showdowns, teams are fine-tuning their rosters following key injury updates. Player availability is particularly important as teams aim to finalize their postseason berths, making each matchup pivotal. Here’s the latest on the active and inactive players as franchises gear up for thrilling season finales.
For the Arizona Cardinals, inside linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. is active for their encounter with the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. After struggling with ankle and quadriceps injuries, Wilson practiced limitedly throughout the week but stepped up just in time. He has emerged as a cornerstone of the Cardinals' defense this season, registering 73 tackles, three sacks, and one interception across 15 games. His partner on defense, cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting, is also ready to contribute.
Unfortunately for Cardinals fans, wide receiver Michael Wilson will not suit up. He landed on the injury report late with a hamstring issue, adding to the team's challenges. Michael Wilson notched 47 receptions for 548 yards and matched his career-high with four touchdowns this season. Other players joining him on the inactive list are safety Jammie Robinson, linebackers Vi Jones and Benton Whitley, offensive lineman Luke Tenuta, and tight end Travis Vokolek, alongside others who were ruled out beforehand, including kicker Matt Prater (left knee).
Meanwhile, the 49ers will be missing several prominent players as well, including quarterback Brock Purdy and receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. On Friday, five starters were ruled out due to injuries. Both Purdy and Samuel, along with cornerbacks Deommodore Lenoir and Tre Avery, are sidelined along with defensive lineman Robert Beal. This heavy toll on their roster leaves the team with big shoes to fill. Fortunately, the 49ers also had good news, with tight end George Kittle and others who were previously listed as questionable remaining available to play on Sunday.
The Green Bay Packers have their offensive weapon Christian Watson cleared to play, marking his return from the knee injury he sustained against the New Orleans Saints recently, which held him out last week. Watson's ability to make big plays, as demonstrated with 150 yards against the Bears earlier this season, will be key for the Pack as they face the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately for Green Bay, they will be without receiver Romeo Doubs due to illness, marking the fourth game he has missed this season due to various reasons. Defensive end Brenton Cox Jr. is also unable to participate due to his foot injury, alongside linebacker Quay Walker and safety Evan Williams being ruled out after the final injury report was filed.
Switching gears to the Miami Dolphins, head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are both active for their match against the New York Jets, easing concerns about their respective injuries. Hill returned from a wrist issue and illness to maintain his status, and he has had impressive chemistry with starting quarterback Tyler Huntley. Despite this boost, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remains inactive due to his hip injury, which places added pressure on Huntley to perform effectively. Also inactive for the Dolphins will be wide receivers Dee Eskridge and Erik Ezukanma, along with linebacker Mohamed Kamara.
The Seattle Seahawks are set to have rookie defensive tackle Byron Murphy II play against the Rams. Initially listed as questionable due to his back injury, his presence is expected to bolster the Seahawks' defensive line. Notables joining him include cornerback Artie Burns. Nevertheless, the Rams have decided to rest key offensive starters such as quarterback Matthew Stafford, and wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, which could put them at a disadvantage as they prepare to face off against Seattle. The Rams will also be missing running back Kyren Williams and lineman Kevin Dotson among others.
With all the moving pieces as rosters are finalized for Week 18, the impact on each team's performance could determine their postseason plans. The stakes are high as players step up or are sidelined due to injuries, and every lineup decision could prove pivotal. This week's matchups stand to not only reflect individual performances but also reveal how well teams might adapt without their star players. Fans will undoubtedly watch with bated breath as their teams take the field, hoping for favorable outcomes as they head toward playoff contention.