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NFL Week 4 Inactives: Jordan Love Returns, Herbert Starts Despite Ankle Injury

NFL Week 4

Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season has arrived, and with it comes some big news on the injury front. After a Thursday night opener where the Dallas Cowboys edged out the New York Giants 20-15, the rest of the league is set to take the field. As always, injuries play a crucial role in the game, and this week is no exception, with some notable players either returning or sitting out.

Jordan Love, the Green Bay Packers’ quarterback, is back in action after recovering from a sprained MCL that kept him on the sidelines for multiple weeks. His return will undoubtedly be a boost for the Packers as they look to regain momentum in a competitive NFC North. Meanwhile, Justin Herbert, the Los Angeles Chargers’ star quarterback, continues to battle through a high ankle sprain. Despite the injury, Herbert is expected to start, though concerns remain over whether his ankle will hold up for the entire game.

In this blog, we’ll go over the most significant injuries, player returns, and inactive lists for Week 4, helping you stay updated and informed. Whether you’re a fantasy football manager or just keen on knowing who’s on the field, here’s everything you need to know.

Jordan Love's Return: A Big Boost for the Packers

The Green Bay Packers have been without Jordan Love for several weeks, and his return couldn’t come at a better time. Love suffered a sprained MCL that sidelined him, but he's now healthy and set to lead the Packers offence once again. The Packers have missed his leadership and ability to create plays, and his return will be closely watched, especially as he may not yet be 100%.

Packers fans will be eager to see if Love can shake off the rust and return to the form he showed earlier this season. The Packers have been struggling in his absence, and getting their starting quarterback back could make all the difference. However, the Packers will still need to be cautious with Love's health and not rush him back into high-pressure situations too quickly.

Justin Herbert Pushes Through the Pain:

Justin Herbert’s high ankle sprain is one of the major talking points of Week 4. Herbert has been dealing with the injury for a while but has shown incredible resilience by continuing to start for the Chargers. Last week, Herbert started but struggled through the game, tweaking his ankle partway through. Despite the setback, Herbert is determined to play again this week, although concerns remain about his ability to finish the game unscathed.

For the Chargers, Herbert’s presence is critical. The offence runs through him, and even a slightly injured Herbert is better than no Herbert at all. However, they will need to ensure they don’t risk a long-term injury by pushing him too hard. Expect the Chargers to have a plan B in place, perhaps leaning more on their running game or short passes to reduce the strain on Herbert.

Week 4 Inactive Players: Key Absences

Injuries are part and parcel of the NFL, and every week brings a list of inactive players. Week 4 is no different, and the inactive lists are filled with notable names who will be missed by their teams.

Below, we’ve compiled the most significant inactive players for Week 4, covering some of the key teams that could be impacted by these absences.

New Orleans Saints

●  WR A.T. Perry
●  QB Spencer Rattler
●  C Cesar Ruiz
●  LB Demario Davis
●  TE Dallin Holker
●  DT John Ridgeway III

The Saints are missing some key pieces, including wide receiver A.T. Perry and quarterback Spencer Rattler, who are both out. Centre Cesar Ruiz is another big absence that could impact their offensive line.

Atlanta FalconsRB Jase McClellan

●  DL Brandon Dorlus
●  OL Jovaughn Gwyn
●  T Brandon Parker
●  T Kaleb McGary
●  DL Ruke Orhorhoro

The Falcons will miss running back Jase McClellan and a few key offensive linemen.

Los Angeles Rams

●  WR Cooper Kupp
●  QB Stetson Bennett
●  RB Cody Schrader
●  LB Brennan Jackson
●  OL Geron Christian Sr.

The Rams are still without star wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who continues to recover from injury.

Key Injuries to Watch:

In addition to those already ruled out, there are several players dealing with injuries that could affect their performances or even keep them out of the game entirely. Here are some key players to watch:

➡ Kansas City Chiefs

DE Michael Danna (calf): Out
WR Justin Watson (hamstring): Questionable

The Chiefs will be without defensive end Michael Danna, which could impact their pass rush.

➡ Los Angeles Chargers

DE Joey Bosa (hip): Out
OT Rashawn Slater (pectoral): Out
QB Justin Herbert (ankle): Questionable

The Chargers’ injury list is a big concern, with key players on both sides of the ball potentially missing.

➡ Miami Dolphins

OT Terron Armstead (concussion): Out
RB Raheem Mostert (chest): Questionable

The Dolphins’ offence could suffer with Raheem Mostert’s status up in the air.

➡ San Francisco 49ers

WR Deebo Samuel (calf): Questionable
T Trent Williams (illness/toe): Questionable

The 49ers are dealing with some big injury issues, especially with Deebo Samuel and Trent Williams.

How Injuries Impact Fantasy Football:

Fantasy football managers need to be extra cautious this week. The absence of players like Cooper Kupp and Deebo Samuel could force fantasy owners to look elsewhere for production. Additionally, the questionable status of players like Justin Herbert and Raheem Mostert makes it difficult to predict how much they'll contribute to your fantasy teams.

For managers looking to make last-minute substitutions, keep an eye on team updates and inactive lists leading up to the games. Streaming options like backup quarterbacks or lesser-known wide receivers may become necessary if key players sit out.

Conclusion

Week 4 of the NFL season is filled with excitement and uncertainty as players return from injury while others remain sidelined. Jordan Love's return will be a highlight for the Packers, while Justin Herbert continues to fight through his ankle sprain to help the Chargers.

As the inactive lists grow, teams must adapt and find ways to win with key players missing. Stay informed by following updates, and don’t forget to adjust your fantasy teams accordingly to maximise your chances of success.

NFL seasons are always a battle of attrition, and as Week 4 unfolds, we’ll see which teams can overcome their injury woes to come out on top.