After just six games in the 2025 NFL season, quite a few stars from around the game have been forced to the sidelines in recent weeks. Lamar Jackson’s absence the last two weeks has continued the Baltimore Ravens’ slide into mediocrity, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Baker Mayfield survived and won in Week 6 despite not having their top three skill players on offense available.
As we near Week 7, let’s take a look at some of the biggest updates on key players hoping to suit up for their teams this weekend.
Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
mike evans
Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The Buccaneers have been without team great Mike Evans for their last three games. Fortunately, rookie Emeka Egbuka has made the case for being the ROTY favorite with his play while Evans was away. However, the WR1 could be back in Week 7.
Earlier this week, head coach Todd Bowles claimed the receiver could practice for the first time after suffering a hamstring injury a month ago. Well, Tampa Bay Times reporter Rick Stroud revealed he is expected to take the practice field on Thursday. Putting him in a good position to play in their game against the Detroit Lions on Monday night.
CeeDee Lamb, Dallas Cowboys
ceedee lamb
Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
After getting off to a fast start this season, Dallas Cowboys star receiver CeeDee Lamb has missed the last three weeks due to an ankle injury suffered in Week 3 versus the Chicago Bears. For the first time since, Lamb was back at practice and reportedly heavily involved in the team’s walk-through.
However, returning in Week 7 is far from guaranteed, and according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, there is just a “chance” that he will suit up this weekend.
Jalen Carter, Philadelphia Eagles
jalen carter
Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
The Philadelphia Eagles were without star defensive lineman Jalen Carter for their stunning upset loss to the New York Giants on Thursday night due to a heel injury. However, after losing two straight, Philly is on track to get their top pass rusher back this weekend against the Minnesota Vikings.
“Missing a game, it hurt me,” Carter told the team’s website. “I couldn’t be out there contributing, helping out my teammates. I feel good, ready to go. I’m here to play, to win games. When I can’t help, man, that’s painful. So I’m working toward Sunday, going to be ready to go and play football.”
Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs
rashee rice
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Rashee Rice has missed the Kansas City Chiefs’ first six games to serve a suspension after violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. He was back in practice this week. ESPN’s Nate Taylor confirmed he is officially a go for their Week 7 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, and the ultra-talented receiver is expected to be used heavily on Sunday.
Puka Nacua, Los Angeles Rams
puka nacua
Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images
Unsurprisingly, Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua has been a key part of the team’s 4-2 start this year, and why they have one of the best NFL offenses heading into Week 7. However, the star pass catcher suffered a notable ankle injury that knocked him out of their game last week.
He did not practice on Wednesday, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport claims he is being listed as doubtful for their game on Sunday versus the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, they have a BYE next week, and there is a good chance he will return then.
Brock Purdy and Mac Jones, San Francisco 49ers
brock purdy
Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
After suffering a turf toe injury in the San Francisco 49ers‘ opening day win, star QB Brock Purdy has played in just one game in the weeks since. On Thursday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed the QB did practice today. However, what he was able to do was limited.
Backup Mac Jones was also limited in practice due to an oblique injury. However, he believes Jones is likely to get the start on Sunday, with the team choosing to be careful with Purdy after he might have rushed his return last month.
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After earning his journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos served as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sucka ... More about Jason Burgos