Injury Roundup From Week 6

It's been a while since I've taken a vacation, but last year, my family decided that we were going to plan one, and it started this week—during football season.

The best part about this job is that as long as you have a computer, you can do it anywhere. And the injuries this season have been hit or miss. Some weeks this article is longer than others. Prior to this week, I thought to myself (or maybe I thought I was subconsciously trying to manifest): 

"Maybe this week will be a light week."

Not the case. But you won't catch me complaining. This is the job I signed up for. However, as I type this article from an island that will remain nameless, I can't help but chuckle. No matter my recess, injuries take a vacation for no one. 

Oh well – at least the views are nice. 

Key: Position Player, Team | Injury | Projected Return to Play

RB Jordan Mason, San Francisco | AC joint sprain (Shoulder) | Projecting Week 8 Return

After filling the void left by Christian McCaffrey, Jordan Mason was en route to a top-5 RB finish in fantasy leagues. Sadly, Mason sustained his own injury during Thursday night's win over Seattle.

San Francisco is labeling Mason as "day-to-day" with an AC Joint sprain. In terms of severity, Mason's injury does seem minor. He missed most of the 2nd quarter with his shoulder injury but did return to the field after halftime, only logging one carry and essentially removing himself. The 49ers likely took X-rays after halftime and saw that the degree of separation in Mason's shoulder was small. 

The majority of NFL RBs who sustain an AC Joint sprain miss >2 weeks. However, the fact that Mason could return to the game (albeit for a short stint) combined with the 49ers actually letting him all bodes well. Week 7 still seems unlikely for a return date, but I think Mason could be back prior to the 49ers' bye. I have him projected for a Week 8 return. 

WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona | Concussion | Projecting Week 8 Return

Marvin Harrison Jr. was pulled from Sunday's contest with a concussion. Harrison will have to clear the concussion protocol before returning to game action.

Only 25% of NFL WRs were able to miss no games after being diagnosed with a concussion. The numbers suggest the rookie misses at least one game. 

Travis Etienne Jr., Jacksonville | Hamstring Strain | Projecting Week 9 Return

After battling a shoulder injury heading into the London showdown vs. the Chicago Bears, Travis Etienne Jr. was unable to finish the game due to a hamstring injury. On average, NFL RBs miss 2.6 weeks with hamstring strains.

Because of Etienne's compounding injuries, I could see him missing more time. Tank Bigsby should be rostered everywhere. If you peaked at the box score, D'Ernest Johnson out-snapped Bigsby, but it was likely because the game was a blowout. 

WR Chris Olave, New Orleans | Concussion | Projecting Week 8 Return

Everything mentioned above for Marvin Harrison Jr. also applies to Chris Olave, who was pulled early due to a concussion.

Olave left with 1 reception for 5 yards and a fumble, meaning depending on your fantasy league's scoring format, Olave gave you negative points.

For what it's worth, this is Olave's third documented concussion in the NFL (at least the third that I've tracked), and the Saints play in four days on Thursday night football. Week 7 seems like a very long shot.