ALAMEDA -- Jordy Nelson didn’t practice all week because of a bone bruise around his knee. The Raiders receiver wasn’t even listed as limited during practice approximations on Thursday and Friday, when the team conducted walk-throughs indoors due to poor air quality.
That was a sign the veteran wouldn’t be available for Sunday’s game at Arizona. He was listed as questionable anyway on the team’s official injury report, a mild surprise negated when he was downgraded to out a short while later.
We already knew Martavis Bryant wouldn’t be available in Arizona with a PCL injury. Nelson wasn’t expected to play, but this puts finality on a situation that will hurt an already struggling Raiders passing game.
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SIGN UP HERE Seth Roberts and Brandon LaFell will be the primary receivers -- tight end Jared Cook obviously plays a huge role in the passing game -- and rookie Marcell Ateman will have a offensive role in his NFL debut.
The Raiders are razor thin at an important spot.
The secondary could be another if some questionable cornerbacks are unable to play. Gareon Conley (groin) and Nick Nelson (illness) had their playing status called into question. That’s two of the top cornerbacks on the depth chart, and missing them would prove difficult. It’s certainly possible -- maybe even likely -- that both defensive backs will play against the Cardinals.
INJURY REPORT
NFL
RAIDERS
Out
WR Maratvis Bryant (knee)
WR Jordy Nelson (knee)
Questionable
CB Nick Nelson (illness)
LB Kyle Wilber (knee)
CB Gareon Conley (groin)
CARDINALS
Out
S Budda Baker (knee)
WR Chad Williams (ankle)
Questionable
K Phil Dawson (hip)
S Rudy Ford (heel)
DT Rodney Gunter (not injury related)
OL D.J. Humphries (knee)
OL Mike Iupati (back)
DT Robert Nkemdiche (calf)