Justin Herbert, Fractured Finger- Week to Week
Herbert broke his finger and returned with a splint that seemed like a bit of an overkill. Since this is Herbert’s non-throwing hand, he is unlikely to miss any time. The potential impact is minimal. He could see some ball security issues. However, it’s overall expected to be minimal. Play Herbert with confidence.
Justin Herbert’s finger 😳 pic.twitter.com/U5GMYwPlf0
— PFF (@PFF) October 1, 2023
Kenny Pickett, Knee Bone Bruise- 1-2 Weeks
Bone heals slowly, and bone bruises are no exception. Reports indicate that his MCL may have also been involved in a Grade I Sprain. Pickett is fortunate as this could have been much worse, and the Steelers have their bye in Week 6. Expect Pickett back in Week 7. His mobility could be limited after his return, especially with potentially having experienced an MCL sprain.
Kenny Pickett with left knee injury. Will not return. Isolated MCL vs ACL/MCL. If MCL alone will likely miss four weeks. pic.twitter.com/fjHvu8Y187
— Dr. Mark Adickes (@jocktodoc) October 1, 2023
Rico Dowdle, Bruised Hip- 1-2 Weeks
Dowdle’s MRI was negative for significant injury and confirmed a diagnosis of a hip contusion. The reason for being cautious here is he missed 2021 with a fracture to the same hip in Week 4. Luckily, he should be back soon if he misses any time.
Javonte Williams, Strained Hip Flexor- 1-2 Weeks
Any time an athlete returning from an ACL suffers a muscular strain, it raises the question of muscular imbalances, compensation, etc. Whether this is what Williams is going through is impossible to say, but it’s at least worth noting that these things may happen in year one following a season-ending injury such as an ACL tear. If Williams returns this week, I would expect more of a timeshare in the backfield. I would bench him this week and wait until after the bye.
Davante Adams, AC Sprain- Week to Week
Sprained AC joints are more of a pain tolerance thing, so I do not expect Adams to miss much if any, time. While this injury is minor, it has the potential to flare up Week 5 with one bad hit.
Tee Higgins, Broken Ribs- 3-4 Weeks
Broken ribs hurt, and playing with this injury is a significant risk. If he were to suffer further injury to this area, he could be at risk for perforated organs, punctured lung, or other internal injuries. Make alternative plans for Higgins until Week 8 at the earliest. As far as the “yips” that he seems to be suffering from, time will tell if he can overcome them.
Pat Freiermuth, Hamstring Strain- 2-3 Weeks
Hamstrings tend to linger, and there is a high incidence of reinjury if coming back too soon. While Freiermuth has an extra week to recover with the bye Week 6, he could still be 50/50 to play Week 7. Watch his practice participation coming out of the bye.
