Wednesday brought updates on key NFL quarterbacks as teams manage injuries heading into the weekend.
In Chicago, quarterback Caleb Williams fully participated in the Bears’ walkthrough, a significant step in his return from a hamstring injury sustained in Week 2. While head coach Ben Johnson described the situation as "fluid," Williams' progress suggests a potential return to the field against the Atlanta Falcons. Williams had been expected to miss three to four games, with backups Case Keenum and Tyson Bagent starting in his absence. The Bears went 2-1 during this period, though backup Tyson Bagent struggled in their recent loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson was absent from the portion of practice open to reporters as he continues to recover from an ankle injury. Head Coach Jesse Minter stated that Jackson is "day-to-day" and "working his butt off to be out here." ESPN reported that Jackson has a "realistic chance" to play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. Jackson suffered a sprained left ankle two weeks ago, leaving the game against the Tennessee Titans. Tyler Huntley has been filling in for Jackson, leading the Ravens to a win against the Falcons last week.
Elsewhere in the league, Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley and wide receiver DeVonta Smith both missed Wednesday's practice due to hamstring injuries, marking their continued absence from team activities ahead of Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. Barkley has missed the last two games, and Smith has been sidelined for the past two weeks. The Eagles' offense has struggled without these key players, managing limited yardage in their recent losses. The team faces additional concerns at running back, with backup Tank Bigsby on injured reserve and third-stringer Will Shipley expected to miss multiple weeks with a foot injury. This has left the Eagles relying on practice-squad call-ups for rushing duties.
In New England, wide receiver A.J. Brown has been designated to return to practice after suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 1. Brown returned to practice on Wednesday in a limited capacity. The Patriots acquired Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles in the offseason.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is expected to start against the Chicago Bears on Thursday night, barring any setbacks, according to head coach Kevin Stefanski. Penix experienced a rib injury late in the game against the Baltimore Ravens. Prior to his exit, Penix had been having a strong outing, completing 67.5% of his passes for 719 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception through his first three starts.