NFL Notes: Ryan Shazier, Packers, Ravens, Vikings

Ryan Shazier

Ryan Shazier‘s father, Vernon, tells Jeremy Fowler of ESPN that his son is showing some improvement, as he works his way back from spinal injury.

“We have seen some improvement that is encouraging,” Vernon said. “We’re taking it one day at a time. We do not know what tomorrow holds. It’s a [daily] journey we don’t know. But I know God is getting the message.”

Vernon added that he’s well aware that football is a violent sport and he prays for all players that put their future health on the line every week.

“The reality of the game is that it’s a violent sport. I naturally pray for those guys going out there every game,” Vernon said. “Any day there’s a football game playing, I’m praying. About whether people should play, I don’t think I’m at that point to think about it.”

Packers

• The Green Bay Packers officially ruled out WR Davante Adams (concussion) and CB Demetri Goodson (hamstring) for Week 16’s game against the Vikings.
• The Packers also have OLB Nick Perry (ankle/shoulder) down as doubtful and G Jahri Evans (knee), CB Davon House (shoulder, back) and OLB Clay Matthews (hamstring) all as questionable for Saturday’s game.

Ravens

• The Baltimore Ravens announced Thursday that WR Jeremy Maclin (knee) is doubtful for Week 16’s game and CB Maurice Canady (knee), DT Carl Davis (shoulder), LB/DB Anthony Levine (thigh), and T Ronnie Stanley (illness) are all questionable.
• While Stanley missed Thursday’s practice due to an illness, Ravens HC John Harbaugh said there is no concern about his availability for Saturday’s game against the Colts. (Jamison Hensley)

Vikings

• The Minnesota Vikings officially ruled out CB Tramaine Brock (ankle) for Saturday’s game against the Packers.
• The Vikings have CB Mackensie Alexander (rib), OT Riley Reiff (ankle) and S Andrew Sendejo (ankle) are down as being questionable for Week 16.