Portis, Parker, and More: NFL Week Four Injury Report:

As we head into Week Four of the football season there are a lot of injuries that fantasy owners need to be aware of.  Who’s going to play? Should I pick up their replacement?  Let’s take a look at a few of the bigger questions:

Jamal Lewis - Cleveland Browns

He’s doubtful to play thanks to hamstring problems, as he did not practice at all this week.  James Davis, expected to get significant carries, was added to the injury report due to a shoulder problem and is listed as questionable.  It’s tough to rely on any of the Cleveland backs this week, but if you are desperate in deeper formats Jerome Harrison is the only way to go.

LaDanian Tomlinson - San Diego Chargers

He’s listed as probable.  I’m one of the few that are extremely high on him (click here to see where I recommended him as a buy low candidate).  Darren Sproles was not all that impressive last week and despite facing a tough Steelers defense, Tomlinson should be able to make an impact.  I’d consider using him, depending on your other options.

Matt Hasselbeck - Seattle Seahawks

He’s been ruled out, meaning Seneca Wallace will once again behind center.  They could be in store for a shootout against the Colts, making Wallace an excellent sleeper choice in all two quarterback formats.

Willie Parker - Pittsburgh Steelers

He’s listed as doubtful due to turf toe, as he’s missed a few days of practice.  I can’t imagine him playing, meaning Rashard Mendenhall has a chance this week to really entrench himself as a potential fantasy option for those with a FLEX option.  If he’s available, he’s a solid sleeper.

Dwayne Bowe - Kansas City Chiefs

Listed as questionable due to a hamstring injury, Bowe draws a tough match-up against the Giants as it is.  He’s a game-time decision, so if you have a viable alternative you may want to turn to him.

Kevin Smith - Detroit Lions

He’s listed as questionable due to shoulder concerns.  Luckily, he plays in an early game so you’ll be able to make a decision either way.  He’s not going to get the Redskins defense again (who he rushed for 101 yards against in Week Three), but if he’s in the line-up he should be active in fantasy formats.

Ahmad Bradshaw - New York Giants

He’s been in a boot at times this week thanks to an ankle injury, but he is expected to take the field.  However, with these injury concerns, if you were hoping to capitalize on a big game during garbage time, I’d have reservations.  It would be much safer to look elsewhere this week.

Domenik Hixon - New York Giants

He’s out for this week, and coupled with Hakeem Nicks hurting, another big week should be in store for Steve Smith & Mario Manningham.

Wes Welker - New England Patriots

At least he practiced yesterday, meaning there’s a better chance he plays but who really knows.  Check the news to see, but I’d have to think he’s going to be limited if he does take the field.

Antonio Bryant - Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Does anyone really care?  It’s going to be Josh Johnson behind center, so who knows how good the passing game is going to be.  Given the way it performed last week it can’t be any worse, but I’d shy away from him if possible.

Derrick Ward - Tampa Bay Buccaneers

With Cadillac Williams present, any questions surrounding Ward should cause you to shy away.  He’s listed as questionable due to a knee injury, which is enough for me to look at other options.

Clinton Portis - Washington Redskins

The news is out that he has bone spurs in both ankles, so he’s likely going to have question marks surrounding him all year long.  Proceed with caution, but selling could be a plausible option if someone is willing to take him.  If he’s playing you almost have to use him and just hope for the best.

Mike Bell - New Orleans Saints

He’s been ruled out thanks to knee problems.  With Pierre Thomas reemerging last week, he now becomes a great play for the upcoming week in all formats.  Bell’s injury is poorly timed and if Thomas can have another strong game, he could be left fairly useless moving forward.

Felix Jones - Dallas Cowboys

He’s out with a knee injury and while Marion Barber is listed as probable, Tashard Choice is likely to see an increased role in the offense this week.  As a FLEX option, he should be a strong play.

Marc Bulger - St. Louis Rams

While he’s listed as questionable, it’s likely that even if he suits up it will be a back-up to Kyle Boller.  Leave him on your bench in all formats.

Frank Gore - San Francisco 49ers

This one is well publicized, as Gore is out leaving Glenn Coffee to start and see the lion’s share of the work.  That makes Coffee a must play in all formats.

What are your thoughts?  Which injury will have the biggest effect?  Which player have you tried to grab?

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