Chairshot NFL News Report (10/22/2026): Giants Turn to McCarthy, Goodell Welcomes Hurts Review & Patriots Lose Five

The Giants name J.J. McCarthy their starter, Roger Goodell addresses the Jalen Hurts investigation, and Patriots injuries headline Week 7.

The New York Giants are making another quarterback change, the NFL is facing increased scrutiny over Jalen Hurts’ medical treatment, and New England will enter Thursday Night Football without five players, including two starting offensive guards.

Wednesday produced several significant developments as teams finalized their preparations for Week 7. Giants head coach John Harbaugh confirmed that J.J. McCarthy will start Sunday against Houston, replacing Jameis Winston after the former Minnesota first-round selection nearly engineered a comeback against New Orleans.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also addressed the NFL Players Association’s demand for an investigation into Hurts’ medical care. Goodell welcomed a review while maintaining that the league believes Philadelphia followed the appropriate medical protocols.

Elsewhere, Buffalo received a second suspension stemming from Sunday’s victory over Las Vegas, Baltimore welcomed Lamar Jackson back to limited practice, and the Rams placed another important defensive contributor on injured reserve.

The week begins Thursday with New England visiting Chicago in a matchup between two 4-2 teams dealing with considerably different injury situations.

It’s the Chairshot NFL News Report for October 22, 2026!

Giants Name J.J. McCarthy Starting Quarterback Against Houston

The New York Giants are turning to J.J. McCarthy, with head coach John Harbaugh confirming Wednesday that the former Minnesota Vikings quarterback will start Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans.

McCarthy replaces Jameis Winston, who started four consecutive games following Jaxson Dart’s season-ending knee injury. The Giants acquired McCarthy from Minnesota on September 28 in exchange for a fifth-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft.

The decision follows McCarthy’s impressive relief appearance during Sunday’s 34-27 loss to New Orleans. Entering during the fourth quarter, McCarthy completed 11 of 21 passes for 243 yards and helped New York produce three scoring drives.

Although the comeback ultimately fell short, McCarthy demonstrated enough mobility and playmaking ability to convince the coaching staff that he deserves an opportunity to start.

Winston had helped keep the Giants competitive during Dart’s absence, but his performance against New Orleans contributed to the change. The veteran threw two interceptions before being replaced and has completed 57% of his passes for 957 yards, seven touchdowns and five interceptions this season.

Harbaugh emphasized that the decision reflects what the coaching staff believes gives New York its best opportunity to win. McCarthy’s mobility also allows the Giants to incorporate more of the offensive concepts originally designed around Dart.

The 23-year-old quarterback was selected tenth overall by Minnesota in 2024 but missed his rookie season because of a knee injury. He started ten games in 2025, throwing 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions before the Vikings eventually moved in another direction.

McCarthy now receives an opportunity to establish himself with an organization that remains competitive in the NFC East.

However, his first start comes with additional challenges. Andrew Thomas, Jermaine Eluemunor and Marcus Mbow all missed Wednesday’s practice, leaving the Giants with significant concerns at offensive tackle.

New York signed Josh Sills from Indianapolis’ practice squad to address its depleted offensive line. The Giants must now prepare a young quarterback for his first start with uncertainty surrounding the players responsible for protecting him.

Houston has won consecutive games after opening the season 0-4, making Sunday’s matchup particularly challenging. McCarthy’s performance could determine whether New York continues rotating quarterbacks or allows him to establish himself as the starter for an extended period.

READ: Greg DeMarco’s NFL Power Rankings After NFL Week 6!

Roger Goodell Welcomes Investigation Into Jalen Hurts’ Medical Treatment

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the controversy surrounding Jalen Hurts on Wednesday, saying the league welcomes an investigation into the Philadelphia Eagles’ handling of the quarterback’s blood-clot condition.

The comments followed Tuesday’s demand from the NFL Players Association for a formal review of the medical care Hurts received before participating in Philadelphia’s October 11 game against Jacksonville in London.

Hurts was initially diagnosed with superficial vein thrombosis in his left calf. Subsequent examinations revealed deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, requiring treatment with blood-thinning medication and making a return during the 2026 season unlikely.

Goodell maintained that the NFL believes the appropriate medical procedures were followed. He explained that league chief medical officer Dr. Allen Sills had reviewed the circumstances and that the NFL remained comfortable with the medical decisions made.

However, Goodell also acknowledged the union’s right to request additional scrutiny and indicated that the league would welcome that process.

The distinction represents an important development from Tuesday, when the NFLPA questioned whether the league had conducted an adequate review before publicly defending Philadelphia’s medical staff.

Goodell also addressed concerns about Hurts’ travel and preparation before the London game. NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller disputed reports that the quarterback had remained awake for more than 30 hours before playing, explaining that Hurts had returned to the team hotel and slept.

The league has emphasized that decisions involving blood clots require individualized medical evaluations rather than a standardized return-to-play protocol.

Hurts remains clinically stable, and his representatives have expressed confidence in his recovery. The quarterback’s health remains the priority, with his return dependent on completing treatment and receiving medical clearance.

For Philadelphia, the immediate football situation remains unchanged. Tanner McKee is preparing to start while the Eagles attempt to recover from four consecutive losses.

The larger issue now concerns medical oversight. The NFL believes its procedures were followed, but the NFLPA wants an independent examination before accepting that conclusion.

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Patriots Rule Out Five Players for Thursday Night Football

New England finalized its injury report Wednesday, ruling out five players for Thursday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears.

Starting guards Alijah Vera-Tucker and Ben Brown will both miss the game, leaving the Patriots with significant changes along their offensive line.

Vera-Tucker is dealing with a hamstring injury, while Brown has a knee injury. Their absences come with starting guard Mike Onwenu and reserve Greg Van Roten already on injured reserve.

Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed that Walter Rouse and Matt Pryor will start at guard against Chicago.

The Patriots also ruled out cornerbacks Carlton Davis III, Karon Prunty and Channing Canada. Davis continues recovering from a neck injury, while Prunty and Canada are dealing with hamstring problems.

Right tackle Morgan Moses remains questionable because of a foot injury. If Moses cannot play, rookie Caleb Lomu could receive his first NFL start.

Those personnel problems create an unusual situation for an offense that has improved considerably during New England’s three-game winning streak.

Drake Maye has developed greater consistency operating Josh McDaniels’ offense, but the quarterback could be working behind a line featuring multiple replacements.

Maye participated fully Wednesday despite appearing on the injury report with a right shoulder issue. Receiver A.J. Brown also practiced fully and carries no game-status designation after recently returning from injured reserve.

Brown’s availability is particularly important because New England has lost Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins to injured reserve.

Chicago also finalized several important injury decisions.

Running back Kyle Monangai and linebacker Jack Sanborn have been ruled out. Monangai continues managing thumb and toe injuries, while Sanborn remains in concussion protocol.

Linebacker T.J. Edwards is doubtful with a hamstring injury, and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson is questionable because of a hip issue.

The Bears received encouraging news regarding offensive lineman Jonah Jackson, who practiced fully and carries no game-status designation.

Chicago enters Thursday at 4-2 following Caleb Williams’ successful return against Atlanta. New England holds the same record after winning three consecutive games.

The Patriots’ offensive-line situation could become the deciding factor. New England must protect Maye with multiple replacements while facing a Chicago defense that has been particularly effective on third down.

Bills Receive Second Suspension From Raiders Game

Buffalo received another disciplinary setback Wednesday when the NFL suspended defensive back Sam Franklin Jr. for one game without pay.

The league determined that Franklin violated its sportsmanship rules by spitting toward a Las Vegas Raiders player following an extra-point attempt during Sunday’s 33-30 Buffalo victory.

Franklin becomes the second Bills player suspended for a similar incident during the same game.

Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson received a one-game suspension Monday after being ejected for spitting toward Raiders tight end Brock Bowers during the second quarter.

Unlike Gardner-Johnson, who publicly acknowledged his actions and apologized, Franklin disputes the league’s determination.

Franklin denied spitting at an opponent and posted video on social media that he believes supports his position. His representatives also indicated that he intends to appeal the suspension.

The incident occurred late in the fourth quarter following a Las Vegas extra point. Franklin was involved in an exchange with Raiders offensive lineman Delmar Glaze, although the available video does not conclusively establish every detail of the interaction.

Both suspensions are scheduled to begin October 26, following Buffalo’s Week 7 bye.

Unless overturned through the appeals process, Franklin and Gardner-Johnson would miss the Bills’ November 1 matchup against Baltimore and become eligible to return the following day.

Buffalo enters its bye at 5-1 and remains among the AFC’s strongest teams. However, the potential absence of two defensive backs creates an unnecessary personnel problem before an important conference matchup.

Franklin’s appeal remains unresolved, making it premature to treat his suspension as final.

Lamar Jackson Returns to Limited Practice as Ravens Prepare for Bengals

Baltimore received encouraging news Wednesday when Lamar Jackson returned to limited practice for the first time since suffering an ankle injury October 4.

Jackson has missed the Ravens’ previous two games, with Tyler Huntley starting against Atlanta and Cleveland.

Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed that Jackson participated in a limited capacity, although his availability for Sunday’s AFC North matchup against Cincinnati remains uncertain.

The development represents progress after Jackson was unable to practice during the previous two weeks.

Baltimore also welcomed center Cam Jurgens back to practice without a non-contact jersey, indicating that he has cleared concussion protocol.

Jurgens has missed the Ravens’ last two games, and his potential return would provide an important addition to an offensive line that has dealt with several injuries.

Cornerback T.J. Tampa also returned to practice after being designated to return from injured reserve.

The Ravens enter Week 7 at 4-2 following Sunday’s 13-10 loss to Cleveland. That defeat created a three-way tie atop the AFC North between Baltimore, Cleveland and Pittsburgh.

Jackson’s potential return would significantly improve Baltimore’s offensive outlook, but the organization has not committed to starting him Sunday.

Huntley remains the alternative if Jackson cannot play. The next two practices will be important in determining whether the Ravens can restore their starting quarterback before another divisional matchup.

Rams Place Kobie Turner on Injured Reserve

The Los Angeles Rams placed defensive lineman Kobie Turner on injured reserve Wednesday, adding another important contributor to their growing list of unavailable players.

Turner suffered a groin injury during Sunday’s 18-16 loss to Arizona and must now miss at least four games.

The fourth-year defensive lineman has recorded 22 tackles through six starts this season. His absence further weakens a defensive front already dealing with significant injuries.

Poona Ford is expected to miss the remainder of the season because of a ruptured triceps, while Myles Garrett has remained unavailable following knee surgery.

Los Angeles also continues managing Aaron Donald’s return after the veteran defensive tackle came out of retirement earlier this year.

The Rams signed nose tackle Jalen Hunt to their practice squad and promoted outside linebacker Darryl Peterson III to the active roster.

Those moves provide additional depth, but they do not fully replace the experience and production lost along the defensive line.

Los Angeles enters Sunday’s matchup against Las Vegas at 2-4 and has little margin for another disappointing performance.

The Rams have already lost receiver Davante Adams for an extended period, creating significant personnel challenges on both sides of the football.

Turner’s placement on injured reserve makes the situation more difficult. Los Angeles must now determine whether its available defensive linemen can maintain sufficient production or whether additional personnel moves are necessary before the trade deadline.

Packers Monitor Jordan Love While Josh Jacobs Returns to Practice

Green Bay began preparations for Sunday’s NFC North matchup against Detroit with two important offensive developments.

Quarterback Jordan Love was listed as a limited participant Wednesday because of back soreness. Love indicated that the issue is not serious and does not expect it to prevent him from playing.

The Packers also welcomed Josh Jacobs back to practice after the running back spent the opening six weeks on the Commissioner’s Exempt List.

Jacobs is eligible to play Sunday, although head coach Matt LaFleur has not committed to activating him for the game.

The Packers have struggled considerably on the ground without Jacobs, averaging fewer than 60 rushing yards per game.

Green Bay has compensated through its passing attack, with Love developing productive connections with Christian Watson and Matthew Golden.

Detroit head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged Wednesday that containing Love will be a central challenge for the Lions.

Love has been particularly effective throwing downfield, while Detroit’s defense has struggled to prevent explosive passing plays.

The Packers enter at 4-2 following three consecutive victories, while Detroit returns from its bye at 5-0.

Jacobs’ potential return could provide the offensive balance Green Bay has lacked, but the coaching staff must evaluate his readiness after an extended absence from full football activities.

The NFL’s investigation into Jacobs’ off-field conduct also remains ongoing. His removal from the exempt list does not represent a final determination regarding potential discipline.

49ers Continue Managing Receiver Injuries Ahead of Atlanta

San Francisco returned to practice preparations Wednesday following Monday’s 23-17 victory over Washington, but the undefeated 49ers continue dealing with significant injuries.

Mike Evans did not participate as he continues managing Achilles tendinitis. Evans aggravated the condition during Monday’s game after producing three receptions for 94 yards.

Deebo Samuel also remained unavailable because of a hamstring injury, while Nick Bosa did not practice because of knee and calf problems.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed hope that Bosa could return to practice Thursday.

Christian Kirk continues progressing through his recovery from a calf injury and could potentially become available if he completes the practice week without setbacks.

The 49ers are 6-0 and remain one of the NFL’s two undefeated teams alongside Kansas City.

However, San Francisco’s receiving corps has required repeated adjustments, placing additional responsibility on Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle.

The 49ers visit Atlanta on Sunday before entering their bye week.

That schedule creates an important decision regarding Evans and other injured contributors. San Francisco must balance the immediate opportunity to remain undefeated against the benefits of providing additional recovery time before the second half of the season.

Steelers Release Rayshawn Jenkins as DeShon Elliott Nears Return

Pittsburgh released veteran safety Rayshawn Jenkins on Wednesday, potentially clearing the way for DeShon Elliott’s return from injured reserve.

Jenkins appeared in all six games this season, recording 16 tackles. However, his playing time had declined during recent weeks.

Elliott participated fully in Wednesday’s practice after previously being designated to return from injured reserve.

The veteran safety has been recovering from a knee injury and has not yet been activated to Pittsburgh’s 53-man roster.

The Steelers are preparing for Sunday’s game against New Orleans in Paris, where they will attempt to maintain their share of the AFC North lead.

Pittsburgh also monitored several additional injuries Wednesday, including Jalen Ramsey’s wrist and Ben Skowronek’s calf.

The Steelers enter Week 7 at 4-2 following Sunday’s overtime victory against Tampa Bay.

Elliott’s potential return would strengthen the secondary, but Pittsburgh must still complete the necessary roster transaction before he becomes eligible to play.

NFL Announces Week 6 Players of the Week

The NFL announced its Week 6 Players of the Week on Wednesday, recognizing several performances that influenced Sunday’s results.

Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud earned AFC Offensive Player of the Week after throwing for 312 yards and three touchdowns during the Texans’ 34-31 victory over Jacksonville in London.

Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams received NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors after returning from a hamstring injury to throw for 305 yards in the Bears’ victory over Atlanta.

Pittsburgh’s Jalen Ramsey and New Orleans’ Martin Emerson earned defensive honors.

Ramsey recorded ten tackles, two sacks and four tackles for loss during Pittsburgh’s overtime victory against Tampa Bay. Emerson contributed two interceptions and four passes defended in New Orleans’ win over the Giants.

Tennessee’s Julius Chestnut received AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after blocking a punt that helped the Titans secure their first victory.

Arizona kicker Chad Ryland earned the NFC award after making all six of his field-goal attempts, including the game-winner against the Rams.

Thursday Night Football: Patriots at Bears

New England Patriots (4-2) at Chicago Bears (4-2)  – Thursday, October 22 — 8:15 PM ET — Prime Video

Thursday’s matchup features two teams attempting to extend recent momentum, but their final injury reports suggest New England faces the more difficult personnel situation.

The Patriots will start replacement guards Walter Rouse and Matt Pryor, while the availability of right tackle Morgan Moses remains uncertain.

Chicago will be without Kyle Monangai and Jack Sanborn, with T.J. Edwards considered doubtful.

The quarterback matchup features Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, two members of the 2024 draft class who have developed into central figures for their respective organizations.

Maye has helped New England win three consecutive games, while Williams returned Sunday and immediately delivered one of the strongest performances of his young career.

The outcome could depend heavily on how effectively New England protects Maye and whether Chicago can establish offensive consistency against a Patriots secondary missing several contributors.

Both teams enter with identical records, but their immediate challenges are different. Chicago is attempting to build on the return of its starting quarterback, while New England must preserve its offensive momentum despite significant changes along the line.

This report includes information from: NFL.com, Reuters.com, ESPN.com, Associated Press, Patriots.com, BaltimoreRavens.com, Packers.com, Steelers.com, NBC Sports, and official NFL injury, transaction and game reports.