NFL teams report player status ahead of season opener
The Rams' Puka Nacua may avoid discipline despite a pending civil suit, while several teams update on injuries and roster moves as the league prepares for opening week.
The Los Angeles Rams are expected to travel to Australia for their season-opening game against the San Francisco 49ers with wide receiver Puka Nacua on the active roster. ESPN reporter Adam Schefter said on the Pat McAfee Show that there is "a real possibility" Nacua will avoid any league discipline this season, referring to a civil lawsuit alleging he bit a woman and made an antisemitic remark. The league has not announced any suspension, and head coach Sean McVay indicated the player is likely to play in Week 1 despite a psoas injury.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said running back Zach Charbonnet, who is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, is on track to meet an "aggressive" timetable for his return after recovering from a torn ACL and surgery. Charbonnet is expected to miss at least the first four games.
The Tennessee Titans placed linebacker Cedric Gray in concussion protocol after he was injured in an off-field accident involving an off-road vehicle. The team said he sustained a concussion and minor injuries and will be cleared to play once he passes protocol.
The New York Giants released wide receiver Darius Slayton, who had spent seven seasons with the team. Slayton recorded 296 receptions for 4,435 yards and 22 touchdowns during his tenure.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur expressed optimism about rookie running back Jeremiyah Love's chances of playing in Week 1, noting the player is progressing well from a high-ankle sprain suffered in preseason.
Virginia Tech graduate TreVeyon Henderson missed practice on Monday as the Carolina Panthers travel to Seattle, raising the possibility he could sit out the season opener.
Los Angeles Chargers running back Keaton Mitchell returned to practice after missing six sessions due to an undisclosed injury. The team will release an official injury report on Wednesday.
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy said cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is expected to play in Week 1 against the Falcons, despite ongoing contract negotiations.
Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen indicated that wide receiver Alec Pierce, who missed most of training camp recovering from ankle surgery, should be active for the opening game against the Baltimore Ravens.