Raiders vs Broncos Injury Report: Is RB Josh Jacobs going to play for Week 18 game?

Week 18 of the NFL season is almost here, and the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders will square off in what could be an intense game. With a win in their pocket, the 8-8 Broncos would potentially mark their first winning season since 2016, so they’re hell-bent on stopping the 7-9 Raiders from stealing the show.

Simultaneously, both teams have released their injury reports ahead of the Raiders vs. Broncos game, mentioning several players on the list.

Is RB Josh Jacobs going to participate in the Week 18 game?

Ahead of the Raiders vs. Broncos clash, the Raiders have officially sidelined their running back, Josh Jacobs, for the upcoming game.

Jacobs, whose recent fine fueled J.J. Watt, sustained a quadriceps injury during the Week 14 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, and since then, he has been absent from the field and missed Wednesday and Thursday’s practice as well, per Sportskeeda.

Despite missing three consecutive games due to injury, the Raiders have managed to secure victories in two of those matchups. With the wins, they kept their slim postseason aspirations alive.

Raiders interim coach Antonio Pierce, provided insights into Jacobs’ situation, emphasizing the running back’s ongoing struggle with the quad injury. Pierce expressed caution, stating that if Jacobs isn’t operating at full strength, it’s unnecessary to expose him to the risk of further injury. Pierce’s primary concern is Jacobs’ well-being, and he emphasized the running back’s determination to battle through the injury.

“I think it’s just him fighting through it. I mean, it’s one of those deals with the quad and that. And I’m not a medical guy. So, if he’s not able to go full strength, there is no need to put him out there and risk further injury. And I know him,” said Pierce.

The decision to keep Jacobs out of the lineup reflects a prudent approach by the Raiders, prioritizing the player’s health over immediate on-field contributions. 

The veteran offensive weapon for the Raiders has accrued season statistics comprising 805 rushing yards on 233 carries and six touchdowns. Additionally, he has contributed with 37 receptions on 54 targets, accumulating 296 yards. Despite Jacobs’ absence, the Raiders can find solace in the fact that no other running back from their roster is currently on the injury list.

After bringing Jacobs in a hefty $12 M deal, his absence is undoubtedly felt, yet the Raiders are expected to look to capitalize on the depth of their roster and the performances of other key players to maintain their competitive edge. 

 Raiders vs Broncos full injury update

The Raiders ruled out two of their players and the Broncos ruled out two of their players as well in concern of their Week 18 game. 

Apart from Jacobs, the Raiders declared to sideline tight end Michael Mayer due to a toe injury.

Though Mayer was a full participant in both practices, the team was not ready to let him run. Nevertheless,  it is going to be his third missed game this season.

Ahead of the Raiders vs Broncos game, Thayer Munford Jr. (knee/illness) is listed as doubtful due to a knee injury while Brandon Facyson and Jakob Johnson (back) are also questionable. Maxx Crosby (knee), Jermaine Eluemunor (knee), Andre James (ankle),  Malcolm Koonceb (elbow/wrist), and Kolton Miller ( shoulder) are also listed in the injury list though their game designation was not updated on the list.

Among them, only James, Koonce, and Miller were full participants in Thursday’s practice. 

In respect of the Broncos, they ruled out Chris Manhertz with no specific injury and Mike McGlinchey ( ribs). Both of them missed Wednesday and Thursday’s practice session. Apart from the players whose game participation is still hanging on the air include Samaje Perine (NIR-Rest), Baron Browning (concussion), Josey Jewell (back), Marvin Mims Jr. (hamstring), Courtland Sutton (concussion),  Riley Dixon ( NIR-personal), Mitchell Fraboni ( NIR-personal), and Mike Purcell (NIR-Rest). 

Despite Riley Dixon missing Thursday’s practice, every other player was actively involved. 

Who do you think will end their season with a win?