Todd Bowles 'hopeful' Ryan Fitzpatrick can play Sunday

Published November 16, 2015

Ryan Fitzpatrick is expected to play this week, but he's not certain to do so. Brad Penner USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Fitzpatrick underwent surgery on Friday to repair torn ligaments in his left thumb, an injury he was forced to play through against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night.

Fitzpatrick wasn't expected to miss any games thanks to a mini-bye week, but he's not certain to play this week against his former team the Houston Texans. On Monday, Todd Bowles gave an update on his status.

Bowles said in his press conference that he's "hopeful" Fitzpatrick will be able to play, but it will come down to how often he's able to practice throughout the week.

"If he doesn't practice all week, he won't play," Bowles said.

The surgery went fine according to Bowles, but he does need time to rest and recover. Fitzpatrick is expected to be on the practice field on Wednesday, though.

If he's unable to start, Bowles said he's confident in starting Geno Smith, if need be.

"I'm fine with him starting," Bowles said.

Smith hasn't started a game this season, but he played well in spot duty after Fitzpatrick after he suffered the thumb injury against the Raiders.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/todd-bowles-hopeful-ryan-fitzpatrick-can-play-sunday