by Chris Mooney

Here are some more tidbits relating to football injuries:

Maroney expects to be 100% for Regular Season Opener.  The Boston Herald reports New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder) is nearing the point where he can shed his red, non-contact jersey. Maroney believes he’s going to be just fine when the regular season rolls around. When asked Tuesday if he could envision being at his top level during the regular season should he not get into a preseason game, Maroney replied with a smile: “Most definitely.” One thing is clear. His legs haven’t been hurt by the time missed tending to his shoulder. Maroney’s explosiveness has been on full display, even if players are barely putting a hand on him.

Ryan Moats OUT for the Season.  PhillyBurbs.com reports Philadelphia Eagles RB Ryan Moats (fractured left ankle) is out for the season.

Kevin Jones Expected to Start Season on PUP .  Mlive’s Tom Kowalski, reporting for the Sporting News, reiterated that RB Kevin Jones (Lisfranc surgery) is expected to remain on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and miss the first six games of the regular season. While Jones is ahead of schedule and is expected to make a full recovery, team officials want to be cautious with his return. RB Tatum Bell, who has impressed the coaching staff with his versatility, will be the starter on opening day.

The Denver Post reports WR Rod Smith, the Broncos’ all- time leading receiver who is coming off hip surgery, did not join the team on the trip to Texas. That means he is all but assured of opening the regular season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. PUP would automatically sideline him the first six weeks of the season. The Broncos expect the No. 2 receiver, WR Brandon Marshall, to play Saturday, but No. 3 WR Brandon Stokley continues to be bothered by a thigh injury and will not practice here today. WR Domenik Hixon and WR Quincy Morgan helped secure the No. 4 and No. 5 receiver spots with their play in the preseason opener Monday. Besides combining for three catches worth 42 yards, Hixon and Morgan will be aided by their roles on special teams. Against the 49ers, Hixon returned one punt for 6 yards and Morgan brought back four kickoffs, one for 58 yards. WR Brian Clark, who ran a reverse for 12 yards Monday and has experience as a returner, is the leading candidate for a sixth receiver, especially with WR David Kircus sitting out the preseason opener with a strained hamstring. “I would like to get some catches this year,” Morgan said. “I know I can do it. But I just love playing football. Whether it’s returns, special teams, receiver, I just love being out there battling with the guys.” The combined NFL receptions by Hixon, Morgan and Clark last season: zero. No wonder the Broncos haven’t given up on Smith returning.

The NYDAILYNEWS.com is reporting that Jets running back Thomas Jones has a strained right calf muscle and is expected to be out one to two weeks, according to a person with knowledge of the injury. Jones, who got hurt Sunday in practice, had an MRI yesterday that did not reveal any extensive damage.He will miss Friday’s preseason game against the Vikings, but the injury is not season-ending.