Deep Dive into the NFL: Injuries, Performance, and Coaching Candidates
As we approach Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season, at Alofoke Deportes we delve into the latest news and rumors from the league. Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, renowned analysts, have been in contact with key sources to bring the most relevant news, including important data for fantasy football fans.
This week, attention is focused on the possible return of quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, who have been out of action due to injuries. In addition, we will analyze the situation of the Vikings with J.J. McCarthy and the state of the head coach search.
Will Burrow and Daniels return?
Graziano reports that the Bengals plan to increase Burrow’s workload in training. The goal is for him to play in the Thanksgiving Day game against the Ravens next Thursday. The response will depend on how his toe reacts to the effort. If not possible, he would still have two weeks to activate him for the Week 14 game against the Bills.
Fowler adds that Burrow is determined to play, regardless of the team’s record. The AFC North division has left a door open for the Bengals, who are at a 3-7 record. The team’s offense could allow them to come back, even with the possibility of the playoffs not being achievable.
Graziano expects Burrow to play as soon as he’s recovered. The Bengals could regret missed opportunities in the final quarters against the Jets and the Bears. The pressure to win games could be a factor for the coaching staff. Fowler highlights that Burrow’s return could be crucial for generating confidence and momentum, both for the player and the team.
Regarding Daniels, the Commanders have a bye week to assess the situation. The team, with a 3-8 record, has lost six consecutive games. The discussion about whether Daniels should play again this season is ongoing. Daniels is expected to return once the doctors authorize it, although a five to six week absence is considered.
Graziano points out that the Commanders’ season has been unexpected, with a 3-8 record. Daniels will seek to return to the field as soon as possible, and the absence of problems in the legs or throwing arm is encouraging.
Concern in Minnesota for J.J. McCarthy?
Fowler highlights that McCarthy’s accuracy is a concern, with missed passes affecting the entire offense. The Vikings are working to improve their consistency. The team relies on their work ethic and skills, but they have no viable alternatives on the roster.
Graziano mentions the frustration of other players, like Justin Jefferson, and the need to maintain team unity. The option of Max Brosmer is not seriously considered due to his lack of experience. Carson Wentz’s injury has limited the alternatives. McCarthy needs time and repetitions, but his slow development hinders the goal of competing this season.
Fowler analyzes the Vikings’ strategy, who have invested in the team to compete with a quarterback on a rookie contract. The team has seven games to assess whether the investment is paying off.
Graziano wonders what the Vikings will do in the offseason if McCarthy doesn’t improve in the coming weeks. Options include a veteran mentor, competition, or seeking a replacement in the draft.Rich Eisen: J.J. McCarthy underperformed at times against the Bears.The Vikings’ strategy with their quarterback in the future will reveal their true assessment of McCarthy, who still has time to prove his worth.
Which Coaches Are on the Hot Seat?
Graziano warns that speculation about coaches on the hot seat comes from external sources. In Atlanta, management expected a better performance from the team, which could put Raheem Morris at risk.
The situation of Zac Taylor in Cincinnati and Kevin Stefanski in Cleveland is also observed. Mike McDaniel, despite the initial poor results, could keep his position in Miami. Fowler suggests that McDaniel could be a viable option for the position, given that the pool of offensive coaching candidates is limited.
Graziano highlights that McDaniel has shown the ability to maintain control of the locker room in difficult moments. Jonathan Gannon, from Arizona, is also in the spotlight, but Michael Bidwill’s decision could depend on the investment in Kyler Murray.
Graziano believes the Cardinals’ management could give Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort time. Jacoby Brissett’s performance in Drew Petzing’s offense is encouraging, although the team has lost seven of their last eight games.
Fowler and Graziano discuss rookie coaches who are struggling. Pete Carroll in Las Vegas is a name to watch, given that the Raiders are rebuilding.
Carroll is not getting the expected results, and the possibility of the Raiders restarting the project with another coach is being considered. The offense, led by Chip Kelly, is a weak point.
Who are the Most Outstanding Head Coach Candidates?
Fowler notes that this cycle is more open than previous ones, with several coordinators with head coaching experience. Vance Joseph, Robert Saleh, Brian Flores, and Jeff Hafley are names to consider on the defensive side. On offense, Matt Nagy, Mike McCarthy, Kliff Kingsbury, and Arthur Smith could be options.
Graziano suggests that the offensive coordinators to follow are Joe Brady, Smith, Nagy, and possibly Kingsbury. The scarcity of successful offensive coordinators could lead teams to look for talent in other positions. Mike Kafka could have opportunities, and McCarthy is expected to perform well in the coming weeks.
Fowler suggests that this year could be conducive to exploring young options and alternatives to the most popular coordinators. McCown, Webb, Udinski, Idzik, and Scheelhaase are names to keep in mind. The reduced offensive landscape benefits Kafka, who could be considered for the Giants’ head coaching position.
Graziano highlights the appeal of the emerging defensive group. Jesse Minter, Chris Shula, and Aden Durde are names to watch. Lou Anarumo could also be considered.
Graziano concludes that Vance Joseph could be the most prominent candidate on this list.Rex Ryan praises the Broncos’ defense in the victory against the Chiefs.
