NFL Player News

Texans quarterback Ryan Mallett was replaced by Brian Hoyer after the Texans fell behind the Falcons by a 42-0 score late in the third quarter of Sunday's contest, NFL.com reports.

Prior to being yanked from Sunday's game, Mallett completed just 12 of 27 passes for 150 yards with a pick. Per the Houston Chronicle, Mallett "overthrew and missed open receivers" on Sunday, while failing to spark the team's offense, leading to the Texans to turn to Week 1 starter Brian Hoyer. Once the dust settles, look for Hoyer to draw the start at QB for Houston against the Colts this coming Thursday.

Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill completed 19 of 44 passes for 198 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions Sunday against the Jets in London.

The Jets put heavy pressure on Tannehill all game long, sacking him three times for a loss of 31 yards. He connected with eight different receivers, with wideout Kenny Stills leading the way with five catches for 81 yards and a touchdown. Tannehill has four touchdown passes in his last two games, but he's also been picked off five times and has completed only 48.4 percent of his pass attempts. He is also not rushing the ball nearly as much as last season, as he's now racked up just 27 yards in four games.

Fantasy owners will get a break from his struggles, as the Dolphins are off in Week 5 before facing the Titans in Week 6.

Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Giants. Taylor's status for Sunday's game was never truly in question, as he was a full participant all week in practice despite a minor ankle injury.

The bigger issue for Taylor may be a lack of options to throw to, as receivers Sammy Watkins (calf) and marquise Goodwin (ribs) have both been ruled out for the contest, as has pass-catching running back LeSean McCoy (hamstring).

Taylor at least has a favorable matchup, as the Giants are ranked dead last in the league in passing yards allowed per game (335.7) over the first three weeks.

Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (ankle) has been deemed probable for the Week 4 battle against Dallas.

Cooks logged a full practice Friday, leaving little question as to his Sunday availability. He's been a major disappointment so far, but he should at least have Drew Brees back under center. Oddly enough, Cooks had his best showing of the year in Week 3, catching seven passes (eight targets) for 79 yards while playing with backup quarterback Luke McCown.

Redskins quarterback Colt McCoy is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

All Robert Griffin-related storylines will have to wait, as McCoy logged full practices throughout the week, leaving little question as to his availability for Sunday's game against the Eagles. With the way Kirk Cousins is playing, it won't be surprising if McCoy sees the field before mid-season

Bills starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor (ankle) is probable for Sunday against the Giants.

Though Taylor suffered a minor ankle injury in Week 3, he practiced fully this week. Taylor put up gaudy numbers in his last game and given that he'll be taking aim at a New York defense that has allowed a league-high 335.7 passing yards per game, he looks like a viable option for Fantasy lineups.

Saints quarterback Drew Brees (shoulder) expressed confidence Thursday he'll be able to take the field Sunday against the Cowboys, ESPN.com reports.

"I'm very confident I will be able to...we'll see how it progresses," Brees said. "But there's not anything that's gonna keep me off the field on Sunday."

The quarterback has turned in limited practice showings both Wednesday and Thursday, which indicates progress from the bruised rotator cuff that sidelined him in Week 3. His listing on Friday's injury report will be particularly telling in his quest to return.

Redskins quarterback Colt McCoy (foot) practiced in full Wednesday, The Washington Post reports.

After watching Monday's practice from the sideline due to a cut on his left foot, McCoy was able to handle the entire slate of drills Wednesday. However, the foot was encased in a heavy bandage, which places some question over his ability to suit up Sunday against the Eagles. An absence would put Robert Griffin in the backup quarterback role.

Saintsquarterback Drew Brees (shoulder) took most of the reps in Wednesday's practice, Larry Holder of the The Times-Picayune reports.

"I'll see how the shoulder responds tomorrow and the rest of the day, but each day I'm able to do more," Brees said after practice.

On Friday, Brees was unable to throw with his usual effectiveness, resulting in inactive status Sunday at Carolina. However, Tuesday's throwing session went well, which he followed up with a significant practice showing Wednesday.

Since he appears to be improving by the day, Brees could miss just one game as a result of a bruised rotator cuff. Luke McCown started in Brees' absence Week 3.

Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor suffered a minor ankle injury in last week's victory over the Dolphins.

Taylor was able to finish last week's game despite suffering the injury, and coach Rex Ryan did not seem concerned about Taylor's status moving forward. However, the setback could have played a role in him rushing for only 12 yards in Week 3. It could be a factor again in Week 4, if he is still not 100 percent.