Chairshot NFL News Report (10/18/2026): Jalen Hurts Lands on IR, Patriots Get A.J. Brown Back & Bears Welcome Caleb Williams Home

Jalen Hurts lands on injured reserve, A.J. Brown returns to New England, Caleb Williams nears his return, and NFL teams make key roster moves.

The Philadelphia Eagles received their most significant setback of the season Saturday, placing quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve because of a blood clot in his calf. The decision guarantees Philadelphia will be without its starting quarterback for at least four games, turning an already difficult stretch into a much larger challenge.

New England received considerably better news, activating A.J. Brown from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Jets. Chicago is also preparing to welcome Caleb Williams back after three missed games, although the Bears made several defensive roster changes before traveling to Atlanta.

Elsewhere, Green Bay placed three players on injured reserve, Tennessee ownership publicly backed Robert Saleh despite an 0-5 start, and several contenders made last-minute roster adjustments as Week 6 continues.

It’s the Chairshot NFL News Report for October 18, 2026!

Jalen Hurts Placed on Injured Reserve, Eagles Face Extended Absence

Philadelphia’s quarterback situation became considerably more serious Saturday when the Eagles officially placed Jalen Hurts on injured reserve because of the superficial blood clot discovered in his left calf.

The decision came after the organization consulted multiple medical specialists regarding the appropriate treatment. Earlier reports indicated Philadelphia hoped to avoid injured reserve, but the medical evaluations ultimately resulted in the team choosing a longer absence while Hurts receives treatment.

Hurts must now miss at least four games, beginning with Sunday’s matchup against Carolina. Philadelphia subsequently faces Dallas, Washington and the New York Giants before entering its Week 10 bye, making November 22 against Pittsburgh his earliest possible return date. That date represents eligibility rather than a guaranteed return, with his actual availability dependent on medical clearance.

The condition developed after Hurts was cleated in the calf during Philadelphia’s October 4 loss to Los Angeles. An ultrasound performed after the Eagles arrived in London revealed the clot, although medical personnel initially determined he could safely play against Jacksonville. A subsequent examination showed movement in the clot, prompting additional evaluation and the decision to remove him from competition.

Hurts has completed 57.8% of his passes for 933 yards, eight touchdowns and three interceptions this season. Philadelphia enters Sunday at 2-3 after three consecutive losses, and the quarterback’s extended absence creates another obstacle for an offense already struggling with injuries and inconsistency.

Tanner McKee will start against Carolina, with rookie Cole Payton expected to serve as his backup. The Eagles also recently signed Joe Milton III from Dallas’ practice squad, providing another developmental option while Hurts remains unavailable.

Philadelphia made an additional roster move Saturday, signing running back Jaydon Blue from its practice squad to the active roster. Blue could make his Eagles debut Sunday with Saquon Barkley, Will Shipley and Tank Bigsby unavailable. The organization also elevated rookies Keyshawn James-Newby and Cole Wisniewski for additional defensive depth.

The implications extend beyond Sunday’s game. Philadelphia must now navigate three consecutive NFC East matchups without Hurts, creating an opportunity for Dallas, Washington and New York to gain ground while the Eagles attempt to stabilize their season.

McKee has shown promise during limited opportunities, but his previous starts came under considerably different circumstances. He now inherits an offense that needs victories immediately, with the team’s starting quarterback unavailable for reasons that extend well beyond a traditional football injury.

Patriots Activate A.J. Brown Ahead of Jets Matchup

New England officially activated A.J. Brown from injured reserve Saturday, clearing the veteran receiver to return for Sunday’s AFC East matchup against the New York Jets.

Brown has missed four consecutive games after suffering a high ankle sprain during New England’s season-opening loss to Seattle. He returned to practice Wednesday and participated on a limited basis throughout the week before the Patriots determined he was ready to rejoin the active roster.

The organization also elevated safety Elliott Davison from the practice squad and released running back Hassan Haskins from its practice squad. Davison made his NFL debut during last week’s victory over Las Vegas and provides additional depth on defense and special teams.

Brown’s return arrives at an ideal time for an offense that has improved considerably without him. Drake Maye has thrown for 643 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception during consecutive victories over Buffalo and Las Vegas, helping New England recover from its 1-2 start.

The Patriots acquired Brown from Philadelphia during the offseason, hoping the three-time Pro Bowl selection would provide Maye with an established primary receiver. However, Brown caught only three passes for 26 yards before suffering his injury against Seattle.

His return should give New England another option alongside Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas and Kyle Williams. The Patriots have also been playing without Mack Hollins, making Brown’s availability particularly valuable as the offense continues developing its passing attack.

New England enters Week 6 at 3-2 and has an opportunity to extend its winning streak to three games. Brown may not immediately handle his normal workload after four weeks away, but his presence gives Maye another established weapon as the Patriots attempt to strengthen their position in the AFC East.

Caleb Williams Expected to Start as Bears Activate Kyler Gordon

Chicago is preparing to welcome Caleb Williams back to its starting lineup Sunday against Atlanta after the quarterback missed three games with a hamstring injury.

Williams was officially listed as questionable Friday despite participating fully throughout the practice week. However, reports Saturday indicated that the Bears intend to start him against the Falcons after he completed the necessary work without experiencing additional problems.

The former first overall selection suffered his injury September 20 against Minnesota. Chicago went 2-1 during his absence, with Case Keenum and Tyson Bagent both receiving starts before the Bears suffered a disappointing 31-7 loss to Green Bay last weekend.

Williams has completed 36 of 55 passes for 407 yards, two touchdowns and one interception this season while adding 107 rushing yards and two touchdowns. His mobility has been an important element of Chicago’s offense, making his ability to move without restriction particularly significant.

The Bears also made several defensive roster changes Saturday, activating cornerback Kyler Gordon from the physically unable to perform list. Gordon has been recovering from a calf injury suffered during the offseason and is expected to provide additional flexibility in Chicago’s secondary.

Chicago placed defensive lineman Dayo Odeyingbo on injured reserve because of a quadriceps injury, guaranteeing he will miss at least four games. The Bears also signed defensive back Nick McCloud to the active roster, released Xavier Woods and elevated Buddy Johnson and Zavier Scott from the practice squad.

Those moves are particularly important because Chicago is already without Montez Sweat, who begins his two-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy. T.J. Edwards and Keyshaun Elliott are also unavailable, leaving the Bears with several important defensive absences.

Williams’ expected return restores the quarterback around whom Ben Johnson designed his offense, but Chicago still needs to demonstrate that its passing game can operate consistently. The Bears have remained competitive without their starter, although the loss to Green Bay illustrated how quickly their offensive limitations can become a problem.

Packers Place Three Players on Injured Reserve

Green Bay made several important roster moves Saturday, placing defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Ford and receiver Skyy Moore on injured reserve.

Hargrave suffered an Achilles injury during last weekend’s victory over Chicago and is expected to miss the remainder of the season. Ford is dealing with a calf injury, while Moore suffered a high ankle sprain. All three must now miss at least four games.

The Packers activated receiver Savion Williams from injured reserve and elevated defensive end Arron Mosby and receiver Coleman Owen from the practice squad. Williams has not appeared this season after dealing with an ankle injury but could provide additional versatility in an offense already missing several contributors.

Green Bay’s defensive line is becoming particularly thin. Hargrave’s injury removes an established interior presence, while Ford’s absence creates additional pressure on Devonte Wyatt, Karl Brooks and the remaining available linemen.

The Packers also ruled out cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, while Brandon Cisse and defensive tackle Anthony Campbell are questionable. Guards Aaron Banks and Jacob Monk remain uncertain, potentially creating additional challenges along the offensive line.

The injuries come as Green Bay prepares for a stretch in which the team hopes to welcome Josh Jacobs back from the Commissioner’s Exempt List. Jacobs becomes eligible to return in Week 7, although the NFL’s investigation into his off-field conduct remains ongoing.

The Packers have won consecutive games to improve to 3-2, but their growing injury list could become a larger concern than their early-season record suggests. Green Bay has enough offensive talent to remain competitive, yet losing multiple interior defensive linemen creates a problem that cannot necessarily be solved by one returning offensive player.

Titans Ownership Backs Robert Saleh Despite Winless Start

Tennessee Titans CEO Burke Nihill delivered a public apology for the organization’s 0-5 start while emphasizing that head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Mike Borgonzi retain the franchise’s support.

Speaking with ESPN, Nihill acknowledged that Tennessee has failed to meet expectations and that the organization’s prolonged struggles have become unacceptable. However, he expressed confidence that Saleh and Borgonzi can eventually restore the franchise to competitive football.

The comments represent an important distinction from the criticism recently directed toward New Orleans head coach Kellen Moore by Saints owner Gayle Benson. Tennessee’s leadership is emphasizing patience and continuity despite an even worse opening record.

Saleh is in his first season as Tennessee’s head coach, while Borgonzi is in his second year overseeing the roster. The Titans have struggled through multiple coaching and personnel changes in recent seasons, with the organization recording only six victories since the beginning of 2024.

The offensive numbers explain much of the frustration. Tennessee ranks last in the NFL in scoring and total offense, averaging approximately 11.6 points and 246.4 yards per game.

Second-year quarterback Cam Ward has thrown for 896 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions while continuing to adjust to the offense installed by coordinator Brian Daboll.

Nihill’s endorsement does not guarantee that Tennessee will avoid changes if the losses continue. It does establish that ownership wants to give its current leadership an opportunity to develop rather than immediately begin another organizational reset.

The Titans have already spent several seasons attempting to find stability at quarterback, head coach and general manager. Beginning another overhaul after only five games under Saleh would risk repeating the same organizational cycle that has contributed to their prolonged struggles.

Ravens Activate Ja’Kobi Lane as Tyler Huntley Prepares for Another Start

Baltimore received an encouraging offensive development Saturday when rookie receiver Ja’Kobi Lane was activated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s divisional matchup against Cleveland.

Lane suffered a wrist injury during the season opener and subsequently underwent surgery. He returned to practice this week and participated fully, allowing Baltimore to restore an important receiving option while Lamar Jackson remains unavailable.

The 6-foot-4 receiver impressed throughout training camp and the preseason, particularly with his ability to make contested catches. His return could provide Tyler Huntley with another red-zone target as the backup quarterback prepares for his second consecutive start.

Baltimore also signed linebacker Carl Jones Jr. to the active roster and elevated offensive linemen Chuma Edoga and Kyle Hergel from the practice squad. The additional offensive-line depth is important because center Cam Jurgens remains unavailable, while several guards are managing injuries.

The Ravens enter at 4-1 after Huntley led them to an overtime victory against Atlanta. Cleveland is 3-2 and has an opportunity to close the gap in the AFC North.

The Browns are also monitoring running back Quinshon Judkins, who remains questionable with an ankle injury. Several defensive contributors are dealing with injuries, potentially creating opportunities for Baltimore’s offense.

Lane’s return does not replace Jackson’s importance, but it provides Huntley with another option against a divisional opponent familiar with Baltimore’s offensive system.

Baltimore has demonstrated that it can remain competitive without its starting quarterback, but Jackson’s extended absence changes the way the Ravens must approach their offense. Huntley can operate the system effectively, although the coaching staff must be careful not to assume he can consistently replicate the production of a two-time MVP.

Chiefs and Chargers Make Final Roster Adjustments

Kansas City and Los Angeles finalized several roster moves Saturday ahead of their AFC West matchup.

The Chiefs elevated receivers Justin Watson and Andrew Armstrong from the practice squad, providing additional depth with Rashee Rice unavailable because of hamstring and knee injuries. Tyquan Thornton is also on injured reserve, leaving Patrick Mahomes with a considerably different receiving rotation.

Watson previously played for Kansas City and is familiar with Andy Reid’s offense, making him a potentially useful addition despite his recent return to the organization.

The Chargers activated receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith from injured reserve and released Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Los Angeles also signed linebacker Caleb Murphy to the active roster and elevated offensive lineman Daniel Brunskill and cornerback Isas Waxter.

Kansas City enters undefeated at 4-0 following its bye, while Los Angeles remains winless at 0-5.

The Chargers will be without Joe Alt, Derwin James, Donte Jackson and several other important contributors. Their offensive-line injuries have repeatedly complicated Justin Herbert’s ability to operate consistently, creating another difficult matchup against an undefeated division rival.

Kansas City has its own personnel concerns, but the Chiefs enter with considerably more stability. The Chargers need to demonstrate that they can remain competitive despite their depleted roster before their season becomes even more difficult to salvage.

49ers Continue Managing Significant Injuries Despite Undefeated Start

San Francisco enters the second half of October undefeated, but the 49ers continue dealing with significant injuries throughout their roster.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Saturday that Deebo Samuel, Nick Bosa, Garret Wallow and Marques Sigle will miss Monday’s game against Washington.

Mike Evans remains questionable because of rib and Achilles injuries, while Christian Kirk is also questionable as he continues recovering from a calf injury. Kirk recently returned to practice and could potentially be activated before Monday’s game.

San Francisco did receive encouraging news regarding Kyle Juszczyk, who is expected to return after missing last week’s victory over Seattle. His availability provides another important blocking and receiving option for an offense that has repeatedly adjusted to injuries.

The 49ers have continued winning despite significant personnel changes, relying on depth and defensive production to remain one of the NFL’s two undefeated teams.

Washington faces its own significant personnel problems. Running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt was ruled out Saturday because of a groin injury, removing the team’s leading rusher from the matchup.

The Commanders also ruled out backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, defensive end Charles Omenihu and linebacker Javontae Jean-Baptiste. Stefon Diggs remains questionable with a hamstring injury, while several other contributors are dealing with injuries.

Jayden Daniels practiced fully throughout the week and carries no injury designation, providing Washington with some stability after the quarterback recently returned from a dislocated elbow.

San Francisco has survived injuries throughout its undefeated start, but the number of unavailable contributors continues growing. The challenge for Shanahan is maintaining the team’s offensive production without placing excessive responsibility on Brock Purdy and the remaining healthy skill-position players.

Steelers Place Roman Wilson on Injured Reserve

Pittsburgh added another player to injured reserve Saturday, placing receiver Roman Wilson on the list as the team continues dealing with injuries throughout its receiving corps.

The move guarantees Wilson will miss at least four games and further reduces Pittsburgh’s available depth at receiver.

The Steelers have already been dealing with the absence of Michael Pittman, who was placed on injured reserve earlier this month. Ben Skowronek has also been unavailable, while DK Metcalf has been managing an illness.

Pittsburgh enters Week 6 at 3-2, but the continued loss of receiving options creates additional challenges for an offense attempting to establish consistency.

The Steelers have relied on their defense to remain competitive, although the offense must find ways to sustain drives and generate production from a receiving group that has changed considerably over the opening month.

Wilson’s placement on injured reserve is another reminder that Pittsburgh’s depth could become a significant issue as the season progresses. The Steelers remain in the AFC North race, but they need more reliable offensive production if they intend to maintain that position.

Week 6 NFL Schedule: Sunday and Monday

The NFL enters Sunday’s schedule with 12 games remaining before Monday Night Football closes Week 6. Denver already defeated Seattle 17-14 in overtime Thursday night, improving to 4-2.

All kickoff times are Eastern.

London — Sunday, 9:30 AM ET

• Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars — NFL Network

Sunday — 1:00 PM ET

• Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons — FOX
• Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns — FOX
• Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts — FOX
• New York Jets at New England Patriots — CBS
• New Orleans Saints at New York Giants — FOX
• Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles — CBS
• Pittsburgh Steelers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers — CBS

Sunday — 4:00 PM ET Window

• Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams — 4:05 PM ET, FOX
• Los Angeles Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs — 4:25 PM ET, CBS
• Buffalo Bills at Las Vegas Raiders — 4:25 PM ET, CBS

Sunday Night Football — 8:20 PM ET

• Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers — NBC

Monday Night Football — 8:15 PM ET

• Washington Commanders at San Francisco 49ers — ESPN

Teams on Bye: Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings

Week 6 Puts Roster Depth and Organizational Decisions Under the Microscope

Philadelphia now faces the most consequential injury situation in the league. Hurts’ placement on injured reserve means the Eagles must navigate an important stretch of divisional games without their starting quarterback, creating an opportunity for the rest of the NFC East to reshape the standings before he becomes eligible to return.

New England and Chicago are moving in the opposite direction, welcoming back important offensive contributors after extended absences. Brown’s return provides Maye with another established target, while Williams gives the Bears an opportunity to restore the offense Johnson intended to operate.

Tennessee’s situation is more organizational. Ownership has publicly supported Saleh and Borgonzi, but the Titans still need to demonstrate measurable progress after five consecutive losses. That patience will be tested if the team’s offensive production continues to rank near the bottom of the league.

Green Bay, Kansas City and San Francisco are facing a different challenge. All three remain competitive despite significant injuries, but their ability to sustain that success will depend increasingly on roster depth and the effectiveness of replacement players.

The most consequential development remains Philadelphia’s decision regarding Hurts. The Eagles are prioritizing their quarterback’s health, but the football implications are unavoidable. Their next four games will determine whether they can remain competitive in the NFC East while waiting for their most important player to become medically eligible to return.

This report includes information from: NFL.com, Reuters.com, ESPN.com, Associated Press, NBC Sports, CBS Sports, FOX Sports, PhiladelphiaEagles.com, Patriots.com, ChicagoBears.com, Packers.com, BaltimoreRavens.com, Chiefs.com, Chargers.com, 49ers.com, Commanders.com and official NFL injury, transaction and game reports.