This article is part of our Injury Analysis series.
Philip Rivers
The Chargers quarterback will be on the field as the team attempts to clinch a playoff spot against the Chiefs. However Rivers is dealing with a significant injury that could easily be irritated and end his season.
Rivers has a bulging disc in his lower back that is on the verge of becoming herniated. Between the individual segments of the spine sits an intravertebral disc. These discs serve as shock absorber for the rigorous stress applied on and through the spine. Each disc is comprised of an outer ring of specialized cartilage called the annulus fibrosus. In the middles sits the nucleus pulposus, a softer, semi-fluid center. It's easier to visualize if you imagine a disc as a jelly donut. The baked dough (annulus fibrosus) surrounds and contains the jelly filling (the pulposus) within. However if enough pressure is applied to the donut, the dough will succumb to the stress and jelly will ultimately spill out. This is similar to what happens to a vertebral disc if the back is compressed or twisted. The nucleus pulposus can bulge out slightly or herniate and spill out of the disc.
The bulge in Rivers' back is significant enough that it has begun impinging on a nearby nerve roots. As a result, Rivers is experiencing pain and weakness in the area as well as in his lower extremities. The injury is difficult to manage and functionally limiting. He managed to put up a big game in Week 16 but he will be a risky play to finish out the year. Even the slightest bit of contact or torsion could exacerbate the issue and leave fantasy owners empty handed. He's likely your best option at this stage of the season but if you have a healthier option now may be the time to utilize it.
Aaron Rodgers
The Packers have quarterback concerns of their own with Rodgers nursing a calf strain. The former MVP described his calf as "sore" but still hopes to be available for practice in anticipation of the team's Week 17 matchup against the Lions.
It's interesting to note this is Rodgers' second lower extremity issue of the season after he strained his left hamstring in late October. A calf injury following a hamstring strain is fairly common as the two muscle groups work synergistically to control leg movement. The distal end of the hamstring is in close proximity to the origin of the calf as the two cover the posterior aspect of the leg The hamstrings are directly utilized in hip and knee function while the calf aids in movement at the knee and ankle. A strain or weakness in one muscle leaves the other vulnerable to injury as it is forced to compensate for the limitation.
Rodgers showed no signs of slowing down following his initial injury but did have the advantage of a well-placed bye week. Now forced into action just seven days after "tweaking" his calf, it will be interesting to see if Rodgers has any issues transferring his weight while throwing or if he is hesitant to run.
It's also worth noting that the estimated temperature at game time in Green Bay will be 23 degrees. Muscle tissue tends to tighten in extreme cold and Rodgers could have a difficult time loosening the area. Like with Rivers, it's hard to imagine fantasy owners benching Rodgers in a decisive week but expectations should be properly adjusted.
Turf Burns
Jimmy Clausen: Clausen will not play against the Vikings after suffering a concussion against the Lions. Jay Cutler resumes the starting quarterback position but as fantasy owners know that's a roller coaster ride in and of itself.
Julian Edelman: The Patriots receiver did not play in Week 16 while recovering from a concussion of his own. Denver's loss to Cincinnati on Monday night locked New England into the AFC's top seed, meaning the team may opt to hold out Edelman for another week to give him extra time to recover.
AJ Green: Green's biceps contusion may have cost numerous fantasy owners a title. The Pro Bowl receiver left after sustaining the injury in the first half and finished the game without a reception. While the injury was painful and limiting on Monday night, Green is already planning on playing in Week 17. The injury isn't overly concerning but monitor his participation throughout the week to see if he will have a chance to redeem himself.
T.Y. Hilton: Hilton did not dress for Sunday's dismantling at the hands of the Cowboys due to a mild hamstring strain but plans on playing against the Titans in the team's regular season finale. The Colts offense struggled without their top playmaker but should return to form with Hilton back and a favorable matchup. Keep an eye on Hilton's status to insure he avoids a setback of any kind but all signs currently point to have him available.
Johnny Manziel: Johnny Football's rookie season comes to a close following a hamstring injury suffered in Week 16. He initially hurt the injury on a pass attempt and limped off the field during the team's next drive. Tests performed Monday confirmed the injury was significant enough to sideline him for multiple weeks, effectively ruling him out for Week 17. Former starter Brian Hoyer may not be a viable option after he suffered what is being called a significant bruise to his shoulder. As a result rookie Connor Shaw could be the starter by default. Shaw isn't a realistic option in any format especially with championships on the line.
DeMarco Murray: The NFL's leading rusher suited up for Dallas less than a week after undergoing surgery to repair a fractured bone in his left hand. He totaled just 55 yards on 22 carries but did manage to find the end zone on a one-yard scamper. The Cowboys were able to rest Murray for a majority of the second half and will likely limit his carries in the final game of the year with a playoff spot secured. Joseph Randle is a must own leading into their game against the Redskins.
