4th & Long excerpts and injury updates for Week 14

Good morning, Fools.  It's Ice-mageddon in the Dallas area today (and yesterday).  At least we haven't lost our power.  I hope you're warm wherever you are. 

Here are a few excerpts from yesterday's 4th & Long column for Sporting News' Fantasy Source, as well as some updated injury news from around the league.

Those of you hoping Aaron Rodgers would ride to your rescue this weekend are likely to be disappointed. He is not scheduled to have his collarbone scanned again, which means it's virtually impossible for him to get medical clearance to play. And if the Pack lose, the odds soar that Rodgers will be shelved for the duration. [Update: Rodgers has been ruled out.]

Carson Palmer is dealing with a tender elbow, which he admits was an issue in last week's game. Though he's been surprisingly effective over the last several weeks, and his matchup with the Rams is decent, the injury puts a damper on his outlook this weekend.  [Update: Though he is expected to play, Palmer will be a game-time decision.  If he sits, all confidence in Fitz and Michael Floyd would fade.]

I certainly won't be starting Jason Campbell, but those of us with Josh Gordon should be praying for his speedy recovery from the concussion he suffered in Week 12. I'd probably start Gordon even if JaMarcus Russell were under center, but I'll feel a whole lot better if Campbell is cleared to play. Things are looking up, as he's back taking first-team reps in practice. [Update: Campbell has been cleared to start tomorrow.]

Le'Veon Bell (concussion) is full go for this weekend's tasty matchup with the Dolphins. Unless he suffers a setback in practice, he's a great starting option, especially in PPR leagues.

A calf injury has kept Reggie Bush out of practice this week. His status on Sunday could go down to the wire, and Joique Bell's stock would soar if the starter is inactive. Bush owners should already have Bell at the ready; but if they don't, this would be a great time to make a preemptive free-agent pickup. [Update: Bush practiced Friday and appears to be on track to play.]

Whether or not Rashad Jennings passes his concussion tests, he belongs on your bench against the stout Jets run defense. And in other shocking news, Darren McFadden is injured yet again (this time it's an ankle) and won't play Sunday. [Update: Jennings still hasn't been cleared to play.]

Andre Ellington (knee) is back at practice, but his potential return Sunday is more bad news for Rashad Mendenhall's owners than good news for Ellington's.  [Update: Ellington is listed as probable.]

Percy Harvin (hip) is not expected to play this weekend, and it sounds like he'll be held out possibly until the real (not fantasy) postseason. Even if he suits up, Harvin will likely be on a snap count. You can release him if you need room for a player that could actually help you win a title. [Update: Percy has been ruled out officially.]

Signs are pointing to Julius Thomas' return this weekend from his persistent knee injury. Of course, we thought that last week, too. Keep an eye on his status, but don't hesitate to start him if he's active.  [Update: Julius is listed as probable.  Get him in your lineup.]

Jordan Reed (concussion) appears to be on track to play Sunday against the Chiefs.  But don't hold your breath for Delanie Walker (concussion).  Dennis Pitta (hip) could return as soon as this week for the Ravens.  Something to keep our eyes on...

The Jets are expected to have Santonio Holmes, Jeremy Kerley and Kellen Winslow Jr. on the field for the first time Sunday.  Too bad they don't have anyone on the roster that can get them the ball.

Maurice Jones-Drew declared that he will play in Week 15 despite straining a hamstring on Thursday night.

Brandon Jacobs (knee) is doubtful for Sunday's game.

Denarius Moore (shoulder) and Aaron Dobson (foot) have been ruled out.

See you back in this space tomorrow morning for PLAYOFF TIME!