No products in the cart.
Fantasy Football News
Raiders TE Brock Bowers To Miss 'A Game Or Two' Following Knee Procedure
Raiders tight end Brock Bowers will miss at least one game after undergoing a procedure on his knee due to a training camp injury. The procedure was described by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport as a "meniscus trim" performed by Dr. Daniel Cooper, a renowned knee expert and the Cowboys' team physician. Those words will still [...]
Sep 9 · Pro Football Rumors Las Vegas Raiders Brock BowersJadarian Price Carries Immense Upside in 2026
Seattle Seahawks rookie running back Jadarian Price is likely to carry a significant workload in Week 1 against the New England Patriots. According to multiple reports, the first-round pick has had a fantastic training camp and is expected to be a main beneficiary of Zach Charbonnet's absence. Price was listed as the RB2 on Seattle's depth chart, behind George Holani, but reports have indicated that Price will be the lead back in Week 1. He also faces the Patriots' stout run defense, which allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs last season. Price's workload will be a main talking point during Wednesday night's game, as he is a high-risk, high-reward option in 2026.
Sep 9 · Source via
Seattle Seahawks Jadarian PriceChris Bell Has a Clear Path to Major Role in Miami
Miami Dolphins rookie wide receiver Chris Bell is a high-upside option to target late in drafts and on the waiver wire this season. In his senior season at Louisville, Bell had 72 receptions for 917 yards and six touchdowns in 11 games. Bell was drafted in the third round and would've gone much higher if not for a torn ACL in the 2025 season. The rookie receiver has recovered at a tremendous pace and played in the team's final preseason game, a positive sign for his Week 1 outlook. He was listed as a starter on the team's Week 1 depth chart alongside Malik Washington and fellow third-round rookie Caleb Douglas. While he shouldn't be a starting player in fantasy this week, he offers immense upside, as the climb to the top of the depth chart is not too crowded.
Sep 9 · Source via Miami Dolphins Chris BellRhamondre Stevenson Expected to be Workhorse in Week 1
New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to handle the bulk of the workload in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. In 2025, Stevenson totaled 948 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns on 162 touches across 14 games. He split the workload with rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson, who totaled over 1,100 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns as a rookie. Now, Henderson (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 1's matchup against the Seahawks, opening the door for Stevenson to get more work. The matchup is still tough, as Seattle allowed the fewest fantasy points to running backs and the fewest yards per carry last season. Still, with a great offense and as the clear workhorse, Stevenson is a mid-RB2 in Week 1.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Rhamondre StevensonKaelon Black a Top Handcuff Option in 2026
San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Kaelon Black enters 2026 as the clear handcuff to star running back Christian McCaffrey. Black missed time throughout training camp with an adductor injury but played well in the final preseason game and reportedly earned the backup role in San Francisco. The third-round pick was the team's second-highest-ranked running back in the draft process and has earned praise throughout the organization, earning the label "fast and explosive." McCaffrey has missed time throughout training camp, and the team is expected to manage the 30-year-old's workload in practice. Black is a strong handcuff at the running back position and carries immense upside if McCaffrey misses time.
Sep 9 · Source via San Francisco 49ers Kaelon BlackTyler Allgeier Set for a Lead Role in Week 1
Arizona Cardinals running back Tyler Allgeier is projected to be the backfield's leader in Week 1's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. With the Atlanta Falcons in 2025, Allgeier totaled 610 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns on 157 attempts in 17 games. He signed a two-year deal with the Cardinals during the offseason, but the team spent the third-overall pick on rookie Jeremiyah Love. Both are expected to form a one-two punch in the backfield, but Love's ankle injury makes his Week 1 status unclear. The Cardinals listed Allgeier as the starting back with Love as the backup on their depth chart. The Chargers were the sixth-best defense against running backs last season, and a negative game script is expected against the Cardinals, making Allgeier and Love risky Week 1 starts.
Sep 9 · Source via Arizona Cardinals Tyler AllgeierBucs Sign QB Baker Mayfield To Extension
11:55pm: Mayfield's deal includes $110MM in new guarantees, ESPN's Dan Graziano reports. With $40MM already guaranteed for 2026, a $150MM total guarantee number is in place on the quarterback's third Bucs pact -- one that is now official. The full guarantee figure and future vesting dates are not yet known, but the $110MM in new [...]
Sep 9 · Pro Football Rumors Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baker MayfieldKyle Williams Looking to Build Off Preseason Momentum
New England Patriots wide receiver Kyle Williams had a spectacular preseason, and he'll look to keep that momentum going on Wednesday against the Seattle Seahawks. Williams' remarkable preseason included six catches, 166 yards, and three touchdowns as he solidified his rapport with quarterbacks Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito. All signs point to Williams potentially having a Year 2 breakout, especially after the team traded away wide receiver Kayshon Boutte. With that being said, we're not quite bullish enough on Williams to start him against the Seahawks in Week 1. He's still third on the depth chart behind A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs, and he'll also have to compete for targets with tight end Hunter Henry. Plus, the Seahawks are a tough matchup, as they allowed just the second-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers in 2025. Managers would be justified in stashing Williams in deeper leagues, but it would be a bit premature to insert him into your starting lineup for Week 1.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Kyle WilliamsRomeo Doubs Fighting for Fantasy Relevance Right Away
New England Patriots wide receiver Romeo Doubs is being welcomed to his new team with a difficult matchup against the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday evening in Week 1. Doubs signed a four-year, $68 million contract over the offseason, penciling him in as the Patriots' No. 2 receiver alongside A.J. Brown for at least this season. Interestingly, we haven't yet seen a Drake Maye-led offense support two fantasy-relevant receivers, but that's not to say it can't happen. The former UNC signal caller will likely appreciate having another experienced veteran receiver at his disposal for Week 1, especially if Brown gets locked up by Devon Witherspoon for most of the night. There's certainly some upside with Doubs, but we'd rather leave him on the fantasy football bench this week while we wait to see exactly what his role looks like on gameday.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Romeo DoubsA.J. Brown's Impact Should be Felt Right Away
New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown might not take very long to prove that his acquisition was absolutely worth it. The Patriots acquired him from the Eagles for a first-round pick and a seventh-round pick this offseason, and he projects to be exactly what New England needed to overcome last year's Super Bowl loss. Brown has familiarity with getting peppered with targets on a Mike Vrabel-led team, and he also fetched 8.4 targets per game during his four years in Philadelphia. Brown's exact fantasy outlook is somewhat dependent on how the first game goes on Wednesday night, but we'd expect the star receiver to pick up right where he left off in Philadelphia. Last year, he caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns across 15 games. He has four consecutive seasons with at least seven touchdowns, and in addition to excelling near the goal line, we know that he's also capable of producing in contested scenarios or making a play deep downfield. Brown gets a tough matchup against newly paid cornerback Devon Witherspoon this week, but he's still worth rolling out as a locked-and-loaded WR1 in fantasy football.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots A.J. BrownHunter Henry Belongs on the Bench for Week 1
New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry is worth rostering in fantasy football, but managers should leave him on the bench in most leagues for Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. Henry had a mediocre stat line against the Seahawks in the Super Bowl seven months ago, catching three of his five targets for 31 yards. That's not bad production by any means, but it also wouldn't be good enough to get him on the fantasy radar as a top tight end. Additionally, managers should wait to see if A.J. Brown eats into his workload at all during the season opener. Brown is a bigger-bodied receiver, offering physicality in coverage and around the goal line. That's similar to what Henry did last year, so we'll see just how much the prized offseason acquisition's presence impacts a player like Henry. For now, the veteran tight end ranks #17 in RotoBaller's latest fantasy football rankings for Week 1.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Hunter HenryAndy Borregales a Riskier Option for Week 1 in Seattle
New England Patriots kicker Andy Borregales had a shaky start to the preseason, which has already impacted his fantasy football price tag. While he harnessed his accuracy in Weeks 2 and 3 of the preseason, he still finished 5-for-8 with just one made field goal from 50+ yards out. With that in mind, fantasy managers can likely find other, more dependable kicking options for the season opener. After all, it's Week 1, so nobody is dealing with bye weeks or kicker injuries yet. That means there should still be plenty of viable kicking options on the waiver wire, including several with higher projections than the Patriots' 23-year-old. Some kickers with similar price tags to Borregales but a higher Week 1 ranking from RotoBaller include Wil Lutz, Chris Boswell, Jake Elliott, Tyler Bass, and Harrison Butker. Borregales ranks all the way down at K23 for Week 1, according to RotoBaller's fantasy experts.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Andy BorregalesRhamondre Stevenson Soars Up the Rankings for Week 1
New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson has emerged as a very strong RB2 option in fantasy football for Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. Entering fantasy drafts this summer, there were plenty of debates about the Patriots' backfield dynamic. We still don't know exactly how this backfield will look when TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) is healthy, but we don't have to worry about that for at least another week. Henderson has been ruled out for Wednesday's season opener, leaving Stevenson in line to lead the backfield. Not only will Stevenson jump to No. 1 on the depth chart, but he'll presumably take on an every-down role. The de facto No. 2 running back, Corey Kiner, has just 14 career touches across four games, so it's unlikely that he'll carve out a large workload against the reigning champs. That leaves Stevenson in line for at least 15-20 touches this week. Interestingly, Stevenson was one of the few offensive players who impressed in the Pats' ugly Super Bowl loss against the Seahawks. On the big stage, he rushed for 23 yards, added five catches for 40 receiving yards, and scored a touchdown. If he can boost his rushing stats while continuing to produce as a receiver and around the goal line, he'll have no trouble finishing as an RB2. The Seahawks have a strong defense, but Stevenson showed that he could overcome this tricky matchup seven months ago, and he can do it again on Wednesday night. As it stands, he's the RB23 in RotoBaller's Week 1 fantasy football rankings. He should be started in all leagues with 10+ teams.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Rhamondre StevensonDrake Maye Opens the Season in Must-Start Territory Despite Tough Matchup
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye will run into a very tough season-opening matchup on Wednesday. The Patriots travel out west for a Super Bowl rematch against the reigning champion Seattle Seahawks. Maye was the overall QB2 in fantasy football last year with 4,394 passing yards, 450 rushing yards, 35 touchdowns, and 11 turnovers. However, he ran into a tough Seahawks defense in the Super Bowl, tallying two touchdowns and interceptions as the Patriots lost by 16 points. The Seahawks continue to field a strong defense that will pose a challenge to Maye, but his natural rushing ability and improved passing skills keep him in must-start territory for fantasy football. He may not immediately replicate last year's QB2 marks, but he should end up in the top-10 quarterback range this week. It's Week 1; don't overthink it. Start your studs, including Maye.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Drake MayeC.J. Stroud an Intriguing Streamer in Potential Week 1 Shootout
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud could be headed for a high passing volume and plenty of scoring opportunities in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills. Stroud was consistently drafted in fantasy leagues with 14+ teams, leaving him available on the waiver wire in eight-team and 10-team formats, as well as some 12-team leagues. The former No. 2 overall pick is looking to shake off a frustrating 2025 season in which he threw for a modest 3,041 passing yards with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. His production continued to go downhill in the playoffs. Stroud has now seen his fantasy ranking decline every year since being drafted, but he could trend back up in a revamped offense this year. He also stands to benefit in a big way from the Texans' Week 1 matchup against the Bills. Although Buffalo allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks last year, Texans-Bills projects as a potential shootout, leaving plenty of touchdown upside for Stroud. Managers who are already looking for some quarterback help in Week 1 should look to add Stroud off the waiver wire. He'll continue to get some favorable situations after the Bills game, as he runs into a stretch of matchups against the Bengals, Colts, Cowboys, and Titans.
Sep 9 · Source via Houston Texans C.J. StroudEli Raridon a Deep-League Stash in Solidified Role
New England Patriots tight end Eli Raridon is officially locked into the No. 2 spot on the depth chart heading into his first pro season. Hunter Henry remains the primary tight end in New England, so we don't expect Raridon to get onto the fantasy radar right away. However, the rookie from Notre Dame has plenty of upside in dynasty leagues and even in some deeper redraft formats. Raridon should get on the field for most two tight end sets, and he could even earn some snaps over Henry. At school last year, he caught 38 passes for 482 yards, although he wasn't able to find the end zone. The 22-year-old currently ranks as RotoBaller's TE45 in redraft leagues, making him a deep-league stash for now. Eventually, though, he could ascend into a decent fantasy starter.
Sep 9 · Source via New England Patriots Eli RaridonJacoby Brissett a Viable Streamer in Deeper Leagues
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett is coming off a fantastic season in 2025, so he remains on the fantasy radar as a deep-league streamer for Week 1 of the 2026 season. From Weeks 6-18 last year, Brissett was the overall QB6 in fantasy football and averaged 19.6 fantasy points per game. He ranked as a top-14 fantasy quarterback in 11 of his 12 starts, as well as a top-12 fantasy quarterback in nine of those starts. It's too early to tell whether Brissett will be able to replicate that level of performance this year. He's not a flashy name by any means, but he should have a high passing volume with the Cardinals projected to be trailing in games often. He also has a very talented supporting cast around him, headlined by Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, and Michael Wilson. The biggest obstacle in Brissett's way is his Week 1 matchup against the Chargers, who allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks last year. While Brissett may not be worth starting in single-quarterback leagues with 12 or fewer teams, he's a solid superflex option or deep-league streamer given the state of the Cardinals' offense.
Sep 9 · Source via Arizona Cardinals Jacoby BrissettDaniel Jones a Priority Waiver Wire Target for Week 1
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has been going undrafted in many leagues with 12 or fewer teams, leaving him on the waiver wire in many formats. It's a bit surprising to see Jones remain available after fantasy drafts wrap up. Although he is coming off an Achilles injury, he was phenomenal through the first stretch of the 2025 season. In fact, he ranked as the QB7 in total fantasy points through 12 games before getting injured last year. Jones no longer has Michael Pittman Jr. at his disposal, but he still gets to throw the ball to a very talented group of players, including Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, Tyler Warren, and Jonathan Taylor. Indianapolis also signed veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen to bolster its receiver room this offseason. With numerous weapons at his disposal and plenty of rushing upside, Jones should be viewed as a fringe top-15 fantasy quarterback with top-10 upside this year. As a result, he's an appealing waiver wire option, especially since he opens the season against the Baltimore Ravens, who allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to quarterbacks last year.
Sep 9 · Source via Indianapolis Colts Daniel JonesTank Dell an Intriguing Stash in Leagues with an IR Spot
Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell (knee) will open the season on injured reserve. While that takes him off the immediate fantasy radar, it actually gives him specific appeal as a player to target on the waiver wire. Many fantasy leagues designate one or two roster spots specifically for players on injured reserve, for which Dell would be eligible. As a result, managers who are on the fence about stashing the Texans' wideout can now add him without occupying a normal roster spot. Dell is working his way back from a brutal knee injury that he suffered more than 18 months ago. It has been a long recovery process, and he's still not quite ready to get back on the field. However, he's worth stashing for once he's healthy enough to play again. He'll presumably be in the mix for the No. 2 receiver role alongside Nico Collins, especially after Jayden Higgins (knee) was placed on season-ending IR.
Sep 9 · Source via Houston Texans Tank DellBaker Mayfield Strong Option off the Waiver Wire for Week 1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield signed a three-year extension with the Bucs on Tuesday and enters the 2026 season with a bit of a chip on his shoulder after finishing the 2025 season as the QB17 on a points-per-game basis (17th) after finishing as the QB4 in 2024. Mayfield dealt with a handful of injuries last season and finished the year throwing for 3,693 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He also contributed on the ground with 382 rushing yards, giving him a safe floor to go with his passing volume. Mayfield has a strong matchup in Week 1, going up against the Cincinnati Bengals, who ranked bottom 10 against opposing quarterbacks last season, allowing roughly 19.1 fantasy points per game to the position. Second-year standout receiver Emeka Egbuka (toe) appears to be trending toward playing in Week 1 to go along with another of Mayfield's go-to targets, Chris Godwin. Mayfield is being drafted as a QB2 in most formats, but his Week 1 matchup may be too good to pass up. Fantasy managers looking to stream a quarterback in Week 1 should look Mayfield's way.
Sep 8 · Source via Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baker MayfieldJacob Saylors Providing Waiver Wire Value as Handcuff to Gibbs
Fourth-year running back out of East Tennessee State, Jacob Saylors, is in line to potentially back up one of the best running backs in the game and the consensus No. 1 fantasy running back, Jahmyr Gibbs. Important to note that head coach Dan Campbell did come out Monday and said that the team's RB2 role behind starter Gibbs will be by committee, according to Brad Galli; however, Saylors is listed as the team's RB2 on the depth chart, and with how potent this Lions offense is, that makes him a valuable bench option on the off chance Gibbs goes down with an injury. Saylors went undrafted in 2023 and has two career rushing attempts in the NFL, so he is truly a handcuff option for the Lions, with no standalone value to start the season. The Lions' former RB2, David Montgomery, was picked up by the Houston Texans during the offseason, opening the door for the 25-year-old. Fantasy managers looking to stash a handcuff should be looking in Saylor's direction.
Sep 8 · Source via Detroit Lions Jacob SaylorsJaylin Noel Gaining Value With Injuries to the Texans Receiving Room
Houston Texans' second-year wide receiver out of Iowa State, Jaylin Noel (hamstring, finger), missed a couple of weeks of action earlier in training camp; however, with Jayden Higgins (knee) out for the season and Tank Dell (knee) starting the season on the Injured Reserve, Noel projects to be the WR3 in this Texans offense. The Texans did go out and get Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots, which was a clear hit to Noel's immediate value, but with Boutte ramping up in the offense, it should provide Noel the immediate opportunity to take hold of the WR2 position should he perform. The Texans offense ranked 14th overall in passing offense last season and 18th overall, and Noel should be on the field in three wide receiver sets. Noel finished his rookie campaign with only 35 targets in 17 games for 292 yards and two touchdowns. Should Nico Collins or Boutte go down with an injury, that would make Noel much more intriguing, but he does have some bench value given the depth of the Texans' receiving room.
Sep 8 · Source via Houston Texans Jaylin NoelJordan Love a Must-Add off the Waiver Wire Heading into Week 1
Green Bay Packers 27-year-old quarterback Jordan Love is poised for a stellar season in 2026. With star running back Josh Jacobs facing a potential suspension and currently on the NFL's Commissioner's Exempt List, the Packers will need to rely on Love to carry this offense, and he should see his passing volume climb. Back in 2023, Love finished as the QB5 in fantasy points per game (19.4), and star receiver Christian Watson is healthy coming into the season to go along with Tucker Kraft (knee), who appears to be on track to return in Week 1. Although Love has struggled the past two seasons from a fantasy standpoint (QB16 and QB18 finishes), it's mostly due to his lack of volume. In 2025, he ranked 19th in pass attempts and 28th in team pass plays per game. Even with that, he was highly efficient, ranking seventh in true passer rating, second in QBR, and seventh in explosive rating and EPA. Love is a must-add on the waiver wire heading into Week 1, as he is being treated like a QB2 but has a clear path to QB1 upside.
Sep 8 · Source via Green Bay Packers Jordan LoveCyrus Allen a Top Waiver Wire Stash Heading Into Week 1
Kansas City Chiefs' fifth-round pick out of Cincinnati, Cyrus Allen, burst onto the scene throughout training camp and generated a lot of positive buzz and praise from Chiefs players and the coaching staff; however, he had a bit of a quiet preseason, catching six of his 12 targets for only 39 yards. Additionally, Allen was labeled as a reserve on the depth chart on Tuesday behind Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Tyquan Thornton. While it may take an injury for Allen to immediately provide WR3 or flex appeal, the positivity he gained throughout training camp garners a bench spot for fantasy managers taking a late-round flier or looking to fill a bench spot off the waiver wire. Allen has a more diverse route tree than Thornton, who is known as a deep-ball specialist. Allen remains a top waiver-wire stash heading into week one based on his training camp buzz and the potential to be getting passes from Patrick Mahomes. RotoBaller ranks Allen as the WR82 off the board and the 213th player overall.
Sep 8 · Source via Kansas City Chiefs Cyrus AllenZavion Thomas an Intriguing Deep-League Stash Candidate Entering 2026
Entering 2026, Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Zavion Thomas projects to be his team's WR4 behind Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III (groin), and Kalif Raymond. Bears tight end Colston Loveland is also expected to be heavily featured in the team's passing game, pushing Thomas even further down the target pecking order. However, Thomas showed an ability to impact games as both a pass-catcher and a rusher during his college career, recording 488 receiving yards, 99 rushing yards, and five total touchdowns across 13 games at LSU in 2025. The 21-year-old also ran a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the Draft Combine, which likely played a role in the Bears using a third-round pick on him this past April. If Thomas can work his way into a consistent role in Chicago, he could become an explosive big-play threat in the Bears' offense. As a stash candidate in deeper league formats, Thomas could be an intriguing waiver wire target for fantasy managers.
Sep 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Zavion ThomasPhil Mafah Tries Out for Packers Amid Backfield Uncertainty
Free agent running back Phil Mafah tried out for the Green Bay Packers on Tuesday, per Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com. A seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Mafah played in just one game as a rookie and was waived by the Cowboys in late August. While it's not yet clear if he will find his next NFL home in Green Bay, the Packers enter 2026 with significant questions in their backfield. Star Packers back Josh Jacobs is currently on the NFL's Commissioner's Exempt List due to an offseason arrest, and it's unclear when or if he will be cleared to play. As a result, the team's running back room currently consists of the unproven trio of MarShawn Lloyd, Chris Brooks, and Kaleb Johnson. The team is reportedly planning to take a committee approach to the backfield early in the year, and the fact that the Packers hosted Mafah on Tuesday could indicate that they do not have great confidence in any of their current options.
Sep 8 · Source via Phil MafahPuka Nacua Not Listed on Rams' Initial Week 1 Injury Report
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is not listed on his team's initial injury report ahead of its season opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday. Nacua dealt with a psoas muscle injury towards the end of the preseason, but it appears that he is fully ready to go heading into Week 1. The 25-year-old put together a dominant season in 2025, recording 129 catches for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns on 166 targets across 16 games. Across the first 44 games of his professional career, Nacua is the NFL's all-time leader in receiving yards per game (95.3). As long as he's on the field, Nacua profiles as an elite fantasy wide receiver who could finish the year as the overall WR1.
Sep 8 · Source via Los Angeles Rams Puka NacuaChristian McCaffrey Avoids 49ers Injury Report Ahead of Week 1
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is not among the players listed on the injury report ahead of his team's season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday. McCaffrey's participation in training camp was limited due to undisclosed tightness, but it appears he is fully ready to go ahead of Week 1. The star running back led the NFL with 413 touches in 2025, so San Francisco may simply have been taking every available precaution to limit his workload over the summer. The ability to stay healthy throughout the entire season remains a concern for McCaffrey, who is entering his age-30 campaign and has missed 10 games or more in three of his nine career NFL seasons. Still, McCaffrey looks to be healthy entering 2026, and he remains a high-end RB1 option for fantasy managers as long as he is on the field.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers Christian McCaffreyDe'Zhaun Stribling Not Listed on 49ers Injury Report on Tuesday
San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling was not listed on the team's initial injury report ahead of its season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday. Stribling dealt with a shoulder injury during the preseason, but he was able to practice in full on Tuesday and looks to be a full-go for Week 1. A second-round pick out of Ole Miss, Stribling recorded 55 catches for 811 yards and six touchdowns across 15 games in his final collegiate season. With 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) expected to miss the entire 2026 season due to a knee injury, Stribling should play a starting role in San Francisco alongside veteran wideouts Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel Sr. The 23-year-old may not provide high-end fantasy production right away, but his upside makes him worth stashing in a bench spot in most league formats.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers De'Zhaun StriblingMike Evans Not Listed on 49ers Week 1 Injury Report
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans is not listed on the team's initial injury report ahead of its season opener against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday. Evans dealt with a groin injury during training camp, but the veteran wideout said it wasn't serious, and he appears to be a full-go for the start of the regular season. Evans is entering his age-33 season and missed nine games in 2025 due to hamstring and collarbone injuries. Even ahead of his first season with the 49ers, Evans has little to prove in training camp practices, so it makes sense that the team would be extra cautious with him over the summer. Evans remained a productive player when healthy last season, recording 30 catches for 368 yards and three touchdowns on 62 targets across eight games. He profiles as a high-end WR3 option for fantasy managers entering 2026.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers Mike EvansGeorge Kittle is Limited During Tuesday's Practice
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (Achilles) was a limited participant during Tuesday's practice session, according to Josh Dubow. Kittle has been able to practice both Monday and Tuesday, which is a good sign ahead of Thursday's contest against the Los Angeles Rams. The 32-year-old appears to be trending in the right direction ahead of the season opener. It wouldn't be shocking to see the 49ers limit his playing time until he's back to full speed. Kittle did suffer a torn Achilles in January, so the fact that he's basically ready to play again is incredible. When healthy, Kittle is one of the best tight ends in the league and should offer low-end TE1 offer if he suits up on Thursday.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers George KittleTerrance Ferguson is Not Listed on Injury Report
Los Angeles Rams tight end Terrance Ferguson is not listed on the injury report ahead of Thursday's game against the San Francisco 49ers, Josh Dobow reports. Ferguson is ready to go after being sidelined during recent practices due to an ongoing soreness issue. The 23-year-old is one of the more intriguing tight end stashes this upcoming season. The Rams used a second-round pick on Ferguson during the 2025 draft. He saw limited usage last season, but is expected to take a step forward in 2026. The Rams do have a handful of options at tight end, but Ferguson is looking like the best of the bunch. He could pay off big time for fantasy managers if they're willing to be patient with him
Sep 8 · Source via Los Angeles Rams Terrance FergusonJordyn Tyson is a Late-Round Stash Option
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (hamstring) won't be ready for the season opener against the Detroit Lions. The Saints were forced to place Tyson on the Injured Reserve due to a hamstring injury. The Saints expect the rookie wideout to miss roughly two months of action. Once he's cleared to play, Tyson figures to be a focal point in the Saints' passing game. The fact that Tyson won't be ready for at least the first four games of the season is obviously dropping his draft stock. Although fantasy managers should strongly consider snagging Tyson in the later rounds if he's available. He's a high-upside prospect who could be a difference maker for fantasy managers in a few months.
Sep 8 · Source via New Orleans Saints Jordyn TysonSam Darnold Not in Streaming Conversation for Week 1
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is not in the streaming conversation when Seattle hosts the New England Patriots in Week 1. The Patriots boast a quality defense, and this feels like a game in which Seattle will rely more heavily on the running game. The Patriots were near the top of the pack against opposing quarterbacks in fantasy in 2025 as well. While they were not exactly facing the most quality opponents, this was still a defense that took care of business when it needed to. Darnold was the QB13 in 2025 due to his scorching first half of the season. However, the Seahawks' offensive strategy shifted down the stretch once Darnold began to struggle with turnovers. Darnold turned it around for the playoffs, but there are plenty of other quarterback options in Week 1 who have a narrower range of outcomes. Leave Darnold on waivers for this week.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Sam DarnoldMalik Willis Could Offer Late-Round Value
Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis will get a chance to show what he can do against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 1. The 27-year-old will get an opportunity to be a full-time starter after playing sparingly throughout his first four seasons in the league. The Dolphins haven't set Willis up for success with one of the worst receiving rooms in the league. They have superstar running back De'Von Achane, but this offense will likely struggle no matter who is under center. Rotoballer currently has Willis ranked at QB20, but Willis has the potential to be better than that. Given his lack of viable targets, Willis could be asked to use his legs to pick up first downs. He might be worth a late-round gamble, with there being some upside of a dual-threat quarterback.
Sep 8 · Source via Miami Dolphins Malik WillisJadarian Price an Intriguing Flex Option in Week 1
Seattle Seahawks running back Jadarian Price figures to lead the backfield in Week 1 against the New England Patriots. Price was the No. 32 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. He was brought in to replace the departing Kenneth Walker III. The knock on Price all offseason has been his lack of a college production profile due to his playing behind Arizona Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love (ankle) while at Notre Dame. However, all reports out of camp suggest that Price is playing lights out and looks like the real deal. New England was stout against opposing running backs in fantasy in 2025. This is a quality defensive front that will match up with an equally good offensive line in Week 1. However, Price figures to see his fair share of snaps, and he should be involved in the passing game. Based on where you likely drafted Price in fantasy, it is unlikely that you will have to start him in Week 1. However, he should provide a decent floor as a flex option this week. He should have decent volume and scoring opportunities.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Jadarian PriceAJ Barner a Potential Tight End Option in Week 1
Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner (oblique) is entering Year 3 entrenched as the No. 1 tight end option in the offense. He could be a solid play in Week 1 against the New England Patriots. Barner subtly broke out in 2025. He finished as the TE14 with 52 receptions for 519 yards and six touchdowns. While nothing elite, Barner seemed to steadily improve as the season wore on. Through seven games, Barner was averaging 3.14 targets per game. Following Seattle's Week 8 bye, that number crept up to 4.6. Barner remained a large part of the offense into the playoffs, suggesting that he could be a huge offensive piece as we enter the 2026 season. New England was middle-of-the-pack against tight ends in 2026. Week 1 games can be sloppy, and Barner could benefit as an outlet for quarterback Sam Darnold. If you punted on tight end in your draft, and you need a start, Barner is certainly an option you could turn to.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks AJ BarnerCooper Kupp Not Worth Rostering in Week 1
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp has entered an era in which he is far more important to the real-life Seahawks than he is to fantasy managers. Kupp is not a player you should be starting or even rostering in Week 1 against the New England Patriots. Kupp finished as the WR53 in 2025 on 47 receptions for 593 yards. He made plays when Seattle needed him to, but he was not a needle-mover for fantasy. Additionally, Kupp's role in the passing game waned as the season wore on. He only surpassed four targets in a game once following the team's Week 8 bye. With Rashid Shaheed and Tory Horton (hamstring) in line for more touches this coming season, Kupp feels like he could be the odd man out in fantasy football. Additionally, with Jaxon Smith-Njigba soaking up so many targets in a low-volume offense, as well, Kupp should not be considered in Week 1.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Cooper KuppRashid Shaheed a Player to Watch in Week 1
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is not in the starting conversation in Week 1 against the New England Patriots. However, Shaheed's usage as a player should be monitored in Week 1 now that he has had a whole offseason to acclimate to Seattle's offense. Before being traded to the Seahawks in 2025, Shaheed was on pace for 83 receptions for 942 yards. He has always been a quality wide receiver, but the Seahawks used him as more of a gadget player after acquiring him midseason. A $51 million contract extension suggests that Seattle would like to get Shaheed more involved offensively. Cooper Kupp is primarily a possession target and veteran leader, while second-year wideout Tory Horton (hamstring) is still coming up to speed. There is a lot of room for another wide receiver to emerge opposite Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Shaheed should be on your bench in Week 1, but his snap count and target numbers will be worth monitoring.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Rashid ShaheedJason Myers a Clear K1 in Week 1
Seattle Seahawks kicker Jason Myers is an easy Week 1 start against the New England Patriots. Myers finished as the No. 1 kicker in fantasy last season while being highly efficient for one of the league's best offenses. Helping Myers' case was the Seahawks' field goal volume. Myers attempted 48 field goals, hitting 41. He also made all 48 of his extra point attempts. The Patriots boast a good defense, but Seattle should be able to score on them consistently with how efficiently the offense runs. Either way, Myers will be in a position to kick field goals or extra points often on Wednesday. He can safely be deployed as a starting kicking option as we get our first look at the Seahawks' 2026 offense.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Jason MyersTory Horton is Questionable for Wednesday's Game
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton (hamstring) is considered questionable ahead of Wednesday's game against the New England Patriots, according to Curtis Crabtree. Horton has been limited in practice the last few days due to a lingering hamstring issue. Luckily, the injury isn't viewed as a long-term issue, so Horton should be ready to go soon. The 23-year-old is looking to make a bigger impact after a shin fracture and groin issue limited him to eight games last season. If he's inactive, Rashid Shaheed and Cooper Kupp could see larger roles in the passing game behind superstar Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Tory HortonChuba Hubbard Listed as RB1 on Unofficial Depth Chart
On the Carolina Panthers' Week 1 unofficial 53-man depth chart, running back Chuba Hubbard is listed as the RB1 over Jonathon Brooks, according to Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer. As always, fantasy managers should not be reading too much into an unofficial depth chart before the start of the regular season. The 27-year-old Hubbard is the more experienced, longer-tenured RB on the Panthers' roster after rushing for 3,686 yards and 23 touchdowns in his five seasons in the NFL with the Panthers. The former fourth-rounder in 2021 from Oklahoma State broke out with 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns on 250 carries in 15 games in 2024, adding 43 catches for 171 yards and another score as a receiver, but Rico Dowdle took over the team's backfield last year, leaving Hubbard as a disappointment with only 511 rushing yards and one touchdown on the ground in 15 regular-season games. Going into 2026, Hubbard's stock has fallen to that of an RB3/flex option, with Brooks having an opportunity to take over the backfield if he can finally stay healthy (he has already suffered two torn ACLs since being drafted in 2024). Behind one of the worst offensive lines in the league, Hubbard and Brooks may find running lanes hard to come by in 2026.
Sep 8 · Source via Carolina Panthers Chuba HubbardBaker Mayfield, Buccaneers Reach Agreement on Three-Year Extension
Two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $165 million on Tuesday that will prevent him from becoming a free agent after the 2026 season, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN and Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Mayfield broke off contract talks with the team as training camp opened at the end of July, but with the regular season kicking off this week, a deal was revisited and agreed upon. The 31-year-old veteran was a Pro Bowler in each of his first two seasons in Tampa in 2023 and 2024, but he played through injuries in 2025 and dropped down to 3,693 passing yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 17 games and failed to make the postseason. Mayfield's fantasy football stock is down overall heading into the 2026 campaign with top wideout Mike Evans now in San Francisco and Emeka Egbuka (toe) and Jalen McMillan (knee) banged up going into the season opener this Sunday. However, he should still be considered a midrange QB2 in superflex leagues, and he has some QB1 upside in Week 1 in a matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Sep 8 · Source via Tampa Bay Buccaneers Baker MayfieldMarShawn Lloyd Listed as RB1 on First Depth Chart
Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd was listed as the team's RB1 on their unofficial depth chart going into Week 1 of the regular season this Sunday against the division-rival Minnesota Vikings, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky. However, offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich said on Tuesday that the Packers' backfield will be a committee approach, with Josh Jacobs unavailable early on due to legal issues. With Jacobs out for the foreseeable future while on the commissioner's exempt list, expect Lloyd, Kaleb Johnson, and Chris Brooks to all be involved at the position. Although Lloyd has played in just one NFL game since being drafted in the third round in 2024 from USC, he is the most enticing fantasy back for the Packers as long as Jacobs is away from the team. Between his speed and athleticism, Lloyd has the skills to become an RB2 for fantasy managers if he stands out over both Johnson and Brooks early on. Going into the team's Week 1 matchup against Minnesota, Lloyd should be viewed as an RB3/flex play in just his second NFL game this weekend.
Sep 8 · Source via Green Bay Packers MarShawn LloydTreVeyon Henderson Ruled Out for Season Opener on Thursday
New England Patriots second-year running back TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) has officially been ruled out for the Week 1 season opener on Thursday and a rematch of last year's Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks after he did not practice all week, according to the team. Henderson's ankle injury is not considered long-term, but it remains to be seen if he will be ready for his 2026 season debut in Week 2 next Sunday, Sept. 20, versus the Pittsburgh Steelers in the team's home opener. With Henderson sidelined this Thursday in a tough matchup against a strong Seahawks defense, Rhamondre Stevenson should see the lion's share of touches out of the backfield while being spelled by Corey Kiner. With New England's backfield a little thin out of the gate, expect to see the Patriots bring up Lan Larison from the practice squad to serve as the RB3 against Seattle. The 23-year-old Henderson had a solid rookie season in 2025 with over 900 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns in the regular season, but he remains in a timeshare with Stevenson when he is healthy, and his early-season fantasy stock is down because of his ankle injury.
Sep 8 · Source via New England Patriots TreVeyon HendersonTravis Etienne Jr. Listed as Co-Starter With Alvin Kamara
New Orleans Saints running backs Travis Etienne Jr. and Alvin Kamara (knee) are listed as co-starters on the team's unofficial depth chart as they get ready for their Week 1 contest this Sunday, Sept. 13, against the Detroit Lions, according to Katherine Terrell of ESPN. Etienne should lead the Saints in overall touches by a wide margin when all is said and done in 2026 after they signed him to a four-year, $52 million deal in free agency in March, but when healthy, Kamara will be involved in head coach Kellen Moore's offense as a pass-catcher. Kamara is looking unlikely to play in Week 1 against the Lions, but when he makes his 2026 debut, he will no doubt take away valuable passing-game targets from the 27-year-old Etienne, lowering his overall fantasy ceiling in his first year in the Big Easy. The former 25th overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021 from Clemson had his third 1,000-yard rushing campaign and added seven rushing touchdowns in 17 regular-season games in 2025, tacking on 36 catches for 292 yards and another six TDs through the air. With Kamara unlikely to play this weekend, Etienne should have plenty of fantasy upside as a low-end RB1/high-end RB2 in his debut with the Saints.
Sep 8 · Source via New Orleans Saints Travis Etienne Alvin KamaraKenny Gainwell Could Feature Prominently in Red-Zone, Goal-Line Situations
FOX Sports' Greg Auman believes that Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Kenny Gainwell could feature prominently in red-zone and goal-to-go situations under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson in 2026. Gainwell is essentially replacing pass-catching RB Rachaad White in a new offense this year, but unlike White, the 27-year-old could be featured more in the red zone, which is bad news for fantasy managers who are hoping for a bounce-back year from Bucky Irving. Gainwell, a former fifth-rounder by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 from Memphis, broke out last year in his lone season with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a receiver, catching 73 of 85 targets for 486 yards and three touchdowns in 17 regular-season games. He added a career-high 114 carries for 537 yards and another four scores on the ground. Gainwell is expected to be used often alongside Irving in his first year in Tampa, giving him weekly RB3/flex upside, especially in point-per-reception leagues. He could come out of the gate strong in a Week 1 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, in which the Bucs may be forced to throw early and often.
Sep 8 · Source via Tampa Bay Buccaneers Kenneth GainwellChris Bell Listed as Starting Receiver for Dolphins
On the Miami Dolphins' updated unofficial depth chart after final 53-man roster cuts, rookie wide receiver Chris Bell is listed as a starter alongside Malik Washington and Jalen Tolbert, according to David Furones of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Fantasy managers should always take depth-chart information with a grain of salt, but Bell will enter the Week 1 regular-season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday with a key role in Miami's new-look offense led by quarterback Malik Willis. Bell had an eventful training camp this summer after initially opening on the Physically Unable to Perform list due to the ACL tear that he suffered in his final college season at Louisville in 2025. He looked good in his lone preseason performance and will have an opportunity to produce right away in his first year in the NFL in the shallowest WR corps in the NFL. Bell is still a better bench stash in dynasty/keeper leagues for his long-term upside, but if he has a bigger role than expected on offense early in the season, he could quickly become a priority waiver-wire target in deeper single-year leagues. He is currently rostered in only 5% of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Miami Dolphins Chris BellKeon Coleman Listed as a Starter on Bills' Depth Chart
The Athletic's Joe Buscaglia reports that wide receiver Keon Coleman is ahead of Joshua Palmer on the Buffalo Bills' unofficial depth chart ahead of their Week 1 game this Sunday against the Houston Texans. Coleman, the team's former second-round pick in 2024 from Florida State, has been a disappointment in his first two years in the league, catching 67 of 116 targets for 960 yards and eight touchdowns in 26 games played (18 starts). The 23-year-old battled drops and was benched for showing up late to a team meeting, further hurting his dynasty/keeper stock. But heading into Year 3, the Bills' brass continues to say that Coleman is in their long-term plans, and they are hoping to see more maturity from him in 2026. The offseason acquisition of DJ Moore did not help Coleman's cause, but he is expected to start alongside Moore and Khalil Shakir in three-wide sets to kick off the regular season. Coleman has buy-low appeal in dynasty leagues and should be considered a deep-league sleeper. Right now, he is only rostered in 2% of Yahoo leagues and can be left on the waiver wire in 12-team formats.
Sep 8 · Source via Buffalo Bills Keon ColemanChris Brooks Has a Real Opening in Green Bay's Backfield
Green Bay Packers running back Chris Brooks has become a little more interesting with Josh Jacobs unavailable to open the season. The Packers are going with a committee for now, leaving Brooks in a three-man backfield with MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson. Lloyd has the obvious big-play appeal, but Brooks brings something Green Bay already trusts. He has carved out work on passing downs because of his hands and pass protection, which gives him a chance to stick in the rotation even if he isn't getting many early-down carries. Brooks had only 27 rushes for 106 yards last season, though he also caught 13 passes for 91 yards. There isn't enough here to put him into a Week 1 lineup yet. He is rostered in just 3% of Yahoo leagues and makes the most sense as a stash in 14-team PPR formats. If the committee gives Brooks more passing-game work than expected, there could be something useful here.
Sep 8 · Source via Green Bay Packers Chris BrooksSeth McGowan Requires Patience in Deeper Fantasy Leagues
Indianapolis Colts running back Seth McGowan is more of a bench swing than somebody fantasy managers should expect to use anytime soon. The seventh-round rookie made the 53-man roster after rushing for 725 yards and 12 touchdowns at Kentucky last season, and the Colts liked the physicality he showed throughout the preseason. There is still somebody in his way before Jonathan Taylor, though. Indianapolis currently lists DJ Giddens second on the depth chart and McGowan third, leaving the rookie without much of a standalone role heading into Week 1. The good news is that the Colts kept only three running backs on the active roster, so an injury could change things quickly. McGowan is rostered in just 1% of Yahoo leagues and sits in the 14-team range on the current waiver list. That's where he belongs for now. Deep benches can take the shot, but managers in standard leagues do not need to force it.
Sep 8 · Source via Indianapolis Colts Seth McGowanSione Vaki Has a Path to Week 1 Touches
Detroit Lions running back Sione Vaki has a little more life as a deep-league stash with Isiah Pacheco on injured reserve. Dan Campbell said Vaki and Jacob Saylors will split the No. 2 role behind Jahmyr Gibbs against New Orleans, so there is no clean handcuff here. Still, Vaki has earned some trust. Campbell liked the progress he made as both a runner and pass catcher during camp and said he is comfortable using him when Gibbs needs a breather. The problem is we have barely seen Vaki on offense in the NFL. He has seven career carries for 18 yards and three catches for 37 yards, while Saylors is going to get work too. Vaki is rostered in only 1% of Yahoo leagues and sits in the 14-team PPR range on the current waiver list. That makes him more of a cheap bench swing than someone to start in Week 1.
Sep 8 · Source via Detroit Lions Sione VakiTitans D/ST Makes Sense as a Week 1 Rental
The Tennessee Titans D/ST is a pretty easy streaming target if you came out of your draft without a defense you trust. Tennessee gets the Jets at home, and Geno Smith is coming off a season in which he threw a league-high 17 interceptions and took 55 sacks. That gives this unit a real shot at getting home for a few splash plays, especially with Jeffery Simmons coming off an 11-sack season. The Titans were not a great fantasy defense in 2025 and forced only six interceptions as a team, so there is some risk here. Cedric Gray is also in the concussion protocol after a UTV accident, which is worth watching during the week. Still, the current Week 1 rankings have Tennessee ninth among D/STs, while the Jets carry an implied total of just 18.5 points. This is a one-week stream more than a hold, with Philadelphia waiting in Week 2.
Sep 8 · Source via Tennessee Titans Tennessee TitansIsaiah Davis Takes Part in RB Drills on Tuesday
New York Jets running back Isaiah Davis (knee) is taking part in RB drills at practice on Tuesday, according to Al Iannazzone of Newsday Sports. Davis missed the entire preseason because of his knee injury and is expected to open the 2026 campaign as the RB3 in New York behind Breece Hall (groin) and Braelon Allen if he is healthy enough to suit up for the Week 1 regular-season opener on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans. That role will not make Davis very appealing to fantasy managers in any league format to start the new season. The 24-year-old former fifth-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft out of South Dakota State has averaged a healthy 5.6 yards per carry in his first two NFL seasons, but it has amounted to only 73 carries for 410 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in 33 games (zero starts). Davis has added 30 receptions for 261 yards and another score through the air. Davis needs Hall to miss time with an injury to become a waiver-wire target. We will have a better idea of Davis' Week 1 status once the Jets begin to release their official practice reports on Wednesday.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Jets Isaiah DavisPat Freiermuth Not Worth Chasing Before Week 1
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth is still easy to find on waiver wires, but Week 1 is not the spot to get cute. He caught 41 passes for 486 yards and four touchdowns on 54 targets last season, and while Jonnu Smith is gone, Pittsburgh added Michael Pittman Jr. to a group that already includes DK Metcalf and Roman Wilson. Freiermuth is still the starting tight end, so there is at least a path to more work than he saw in 2025. The matchup is the problem. Atlanta allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to tight ends last season, and the current Week 1 rankings have Freiermuth at TE25. He is rostered in only 6% of Yahoo leagues and is best viewed as a 14-team option for now. In a 10- or 12-team league, there are better tight ends to chase before Sunday.
Sep 8 · Source via Pittsburgh Steelers Pat FreiermuthTyler Allgeier Gets a Boost From Cardinals Depth Chart
Arizona Cardinals running back Tyler Allgeier has picked up some real short-term value heading into Week 1. Arizona's current depth chart lists him first at running back, ahead of rookie Jeremiyah Love, while James Conner will open the season on injured reserve. The ordering alone should not be treated like a permanent changing of the guard. The Cardinals said during the preseason not to make too much of Love being listed behind Allgeier, and Love was the No. 3 overall pick for a reason. The timing matters now, though. Love has not practiced since injuring his ankle on Aug. 13, although he was moving around during Monday's walk-through and head coach Mike LaFleur said he feels good about his chances of playing against the Chargers. Allgeier already has a 1,000-yard season on his rsum and scored a career-high eight rushing touchdowns last year. Even if Love is active Sunday, Allgeier looks much harder to dismiss as an early-season fantasy option.
Sep 8 · Source via Arizona Cardinals Tyler AllgeierJeremiyah Love Listed as RB2 on Cardinals' Depth Chart
The Arizona Cardinals have listed rookie first-round running back Jeremiyah Love (ankle) as the RB2 on their unofficial depth chart entering their Week 1 contest on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to Bo Brack of PHNX Sports. The No. 3 overall pick in April from Notre Dame has clear three-down potential long-term in the NFL, but after suffering an ankle sprain early in the preseason, the Cardinals are going to ease Love into the regular season as the No. 2 behind Tyler Allgeier, who is in his first year in the desert. Trey Benson (knee) has already been ruled out for the season, and veteran James Conner (foot) will miss at least the first four games of the year due to a foot injury he suffered early in 2025. Love is trending in the right direction to be active this weekend against the Bolts, but he seems likely to cede most of the backfield work to Allgeier in his NFL debut if he is active, making him more of a low-end RB2/high-end RB3/flex choice for starting lineups on Sunday. Fantasy managers might have to be patient with Love early in his rookie season.
Sep 8 · Source via Arizona Cardinals Jeremiyah LoveDevontez Walker Missing From Practice With Undisclosed Injury
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Devontez Walker (undisclosed) was the lone Ravens player not practicing on Tuesday due to an undisclosed issue, according to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic. Although Walker was not participating with the rest of the team, he was seen running on a side field. It is unclear what Walker is dealing with or if it is serious enough to keep him from suiting up this Sunday in the Week 1 season opener versus the Indianapolis Colts, but we should know more once the Ravens release their first official practice report of the 2026 season on Wednesday. The 25-year-old former fourth-rounder in 2024 from North Carolina is not on the fantasy football radar in most leagues and has just seven catches on 11 targets for 157 yards and four touchdowns in 21 games (three starts) in his first two years in the NFL. Walker will likely need an injury or two in front of him in Baltimore's receiver corps to become a waiver-wire pickup.
Sep 8 · Source via Baltimore Ravens Devontez WalkerDarnell Mooney Listed as Giants' WR2
The New York Giants' unofficial depth chart has Darnell Mooney as the team's No. 2 wide receiver entering the year behind Malik Nabers (knee), according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. Rookie Malachi Fields and veteran Odell Beckham Jr. are the backups to Nabers and Mooney after the Giants recently cut Darius Slayton from the 53-man roster. Mooney comes to the Big Apple in 2026 after a down year in his second season with the Atlanta Falcons, in which he caught 32 of 72 targets for 443 yards and only one touchdown in 15 starts. The year before, the 28-year-old former fifth-rounder from Tulane had a resurgent season, catching 64 passes for 992 yards and a career-high five touchdowns in 16 starts. After the season-ending injury to Calvin Austin III (knee) and the release of Slayton, Mooney could be a sneaky deep-league option off the waiver wire to begin the 2026 season. Right now, he is only rostered in 1% of Yahoo leagues. Mooney's best year came in 2021 with the Chicago Bears, when he posted an 81-1,055-4 line in 17 games played in his second year in the NFL.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Giants Darnell MooneyCam Skattebo Listed as Top Giants Running Back
On the New York Giants' unofficial depth chart going into their Week 1 showdown against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night, Cam Skattebo is listed as the top running back, with Tyrone Tracy Jr., Najee Harris, and Devin Singletary all listed as co-RB2s, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. Despite suffering a gruesome ankle dislocation early in his rookie campaign in 2025, Skattebo is fully recovered and ready to serve as New York's primary option in the backfield in Year 2 in new head coach John Harbaugh's offense. While the G-Men have plenty of depth behind him after adding Harris in training camp, it is possible that Skattebo handles 20-plus carries per game if he can remain healthy. The 24-year-old fourth-rounder from Arizona State had 101 carries for 410 yards and five touchdowns while adding 24 catches for 207 yards and another two TDs in eight games played last year before getting hurt. Fantasy managers should treat him as an RB2 in starting fantasy lineups with the regular-season opener quickly approaching.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Giants Cam SkatteboTexans Have "Big Plans" for Kayshon Boutte
The Houston Texans have "big plans" for new wide receiver Kayshon Boutte in the immediate future after acquiring him in a trade from the New England Patriots in exchange for safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round draft pick, according to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Sports. The plan for Boutte is for the Texans to "utilize him immediately" in the Week 1 season opener versus the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. There is overlap for Boutte with the offensive scheme since coordinator Nick Caley is a former Patriots assistant whose playbook is similar to what Pats OC Josh McDaniels runs. "Kayshon is learning the playbook very well and we're throwing it all at him," head coach DeMeco Ryans said. "He's a smart guy. He's picked up on what we've asked him to do." Boutte has been working overtime since joining the Texans to build chemistry with quarterback C.J. Stroud. He will essentially be replacing Jayden Higgins (knee) as the WR2 in Houston after Higgins suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the preseason. With much more opportunity to become fantasy relevant than he ever had in New England, Boutte could become one of the more popular wideouts on the waiver wire early in the 2026 season. He is currently rostered in only 21% of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Houston Texans Kayshon BoutteKenyon Sadiq Worth a Waiver Stash as his Health Improves
The New York Jets have already acknowledged that they will likely be easing rookie first-round tight end Kenyon Sadiq (hernia) into the offense early on after he missed all of training camp and the preseason this summer following hernia surgery and a setback along the way. However, Sadiq is trending in the right direction to be active for Week 1 against the Tennessee Titans this Sunday, Sept. 13, after participating in positional drills on Tuesday, according to Brian Costello of The New York Post. The extremely athletic tight end from Oregon has tons of long-term upside, but the Jets do not need to rush him back in his first NFL campaign when they have second-year TE Mason Taylor capable of handling the pass-catching duties as Sadiq gets up to speed. Sadiq went undrafted in the majority of 12- and 14-team leagues this summer, but he is not a bad waiver-wire stash if you have room on your bench and want more depth at the position. If Sadiq is active in Week 1 on Sunday, fantasy managers should have him on their benches for his NFL debut.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Jets Kenyon SadiqZay Flowers Goes Through Drills at "Full Strength"
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (lower body) was seen leading positional drills during the media accessible portion of Tuesday's practice, and beat reporter Jamison Hensley points out that he looks to be operating at full strength after missing two weeks of practice with a lower body ailment. Flowers caught a career-high 86 passes for 1,211 yards on his way to a WR7 finish in 2025, and he returns as a focal point of a Ravens offense looking to get more explosive under new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. Having never topped five touchdowns in a season, it's possible he has yet to approach his true fantasy ceiling, making Flowers a legitimate WR1 candidate for the second year in a row and a potential value as RotoBaller's WR14.
Sep 8 · Source via Baltimore Ravens Zay FlowersPatrick Mahomes on Track to Start Week 1
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (knee) has led the team from Day 1 of training camp, reportedly looking as sharp as he has in years, and NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reports that he is on track to start Week 1 in a Monday Night divisional matchup with the Broncos. The two-time MVP tore his ACL in Week 15 of the 2025 season, but head coach Andy Reid told reporters on Tuesday that there is a "pretty good chance" he'll be under center to begin his tenth season. Mahomes was the fantasy QB2 at the time of his injury, having run for a career-high 422 yards and five rushing scores to that point, but with him less than nine months removed from knee surgery, there are lingering questions about how he'll be used in 2026, and he enters the season as RotoBaller's QB13.
Sep 8 · Source via Kansas City Chiefs Patrick MahomesRome Odunze Won't Practice Tuesday, Bears "Hopeful" for Week 1
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (leg) will not practice on Tuesday, and head coach Ben Johnson told reporters he is considered "day-to-day." Johnson clarified that the 2024 first-round pick did not aggravate the foot injury that he dealt with last season but is instead dealing with "something different," and the team remains hopeful he'll be able to suit up for a Week 1 matchup with the Panthers. Odunze led the Bears with 87 targets in 2025 despite missing five games, and following the departure of veteran DJ Moore, there is an expectation of a further consolidation of opportunities between Odunze and second-year pass-catchers Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland. Fantasy managers will now need to monitor Odunze's status when the team releases its first official practice report on Wednesday.
Sep 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Rome OdunzeSamaje Perine Worth a Look in Deep Leagues
After rushing for 382 yards and three touchdowns on a 4.5-yard-per-carry average a year ago, Cincinnati Bengals running back Samaje Perine appears poised to enter his 10th season as the primary backup to Chase Brown. With little in-game information to go off of, proactive fantasy managers with the luxury of deep benches should be looking to churn through the backs of their rosters, targeting players whose waiver value would see the greatest jump as the result of a Week 1 injury ahead of them, and Perine fits that bill. 2025 sixth-round pick Tahj Brooks, who carried the ball 16 times for only 45 yards as a rookie, is the only other running back on the Bengals' 53-man roster, making Perine a potentially valuable handcuff to roster who can easily be moved on from as more obvious waiver candidates emerge after Week 1.
Sep 8 · Source via Cincinnati Bengals Samaje PerineJalen McMillan Listed as Starting Receiver for the Bucs
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (knee) is listed as a starting wideout for the team on their unofficial depth chart entering their Week 1 contest this Sunday versus the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Jenna Laine of ESPN. McMillan missed the entire preseason due to a knee injury, but he was back on the practice field on Monday and is trending in the right direction to play in the season opener this weekend in a favorable matchup against Cincy. At least to begin the 2026 campaign, McMillan will be in three-wide sets alongside Chris Godwin Jr. and Emeka Egbuka (toe), with Ted Hurst III checking in as the WR4. While McMillan rested during the summer, Hurst was turning heads and impressing the coaching staff, so McMillan will need to stay healthy and produce to hold off the impressive young pass-catcher. McMillan played in only four games in 2025 due to a serious neck injury he suffered in the preseason, but he caught 37 passes for 461 yards and eight touchdowns in 13 games as a rookie in 2024 after being selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft. The 24-year-old is only rostered in 15% of Yahoo leagues and is tough to recommend as a Week 1 starter in deeper leagues after he missed most of camp and the preseason.
Sep 8 · Source via Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jalen McMillanRico Dowdle Listed as RB2 on Steelers' Depth Chart
Running back Rico Dowdle is listed as the No. 2 RB on the Pittsburgh Steelers' unofficial depth chart ahead of the team's Week 1 season opener against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday, Sept. 13, according to PGH Steelers Now's Alan Saunders. Fantasy managers should not read too much into this, as Dowdle is fully expected to be head coach Mike McCarthy's preferred option out of the backfield on early downs in 2026, and if he stays healthy, the 28-year-old could have a path to a third straight 1,000-rushing season with his third different team in the last three years. Jaylen Warren is likely listed as the RB1 on the depth chart because he is the incumbent of Pittsburgh's backfield. Dowdle handled a career-high 236 carries for 1,076 yards and a career-high six rushing touchdowns in 17 regular-season games in 2025 with the Carolina Panthers, adding 39 receptions for 297 yards and an additional score through the air. As the Steelers' preferred early-down option, Dowdle will have more fantasy value in standard-scoring leagues as an RB3/flex going into the Week 1 tilt this Sunday against Atlanta.
Sep 8 · Source via Pittsburgh Steelers Rico DowdleJaylen Warren Listed as Starter on Steelers' Depth Chart
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren is listed as the team's RB1 on their unofficial depth chart heading into a Week 1 meeting against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday, according to Alan Saunders of PGH Steelers Now. Newcomer Rico Dowdle is expected to be the leader on early downs in Pittsburgh's backfield, but Warren is the incumbent at the position. Fantasy managers should take the Steelers' latest depth chart with a grain of salt, as Dowdle should still have a sizeable role in his first year in the Steel City, with a path to a third straight 1,000-rushing season with his third team in the last three years if he can stay healthy. Warren, meanwhile, could be a sneaky low-end RB2/high-end RB3/flex in point-per-reception fantasy leagues as the Steelers' primary receiving back out of the backfield. The 27-year-old former undrafted free agent from Oklahoma State did have a career-high 61 receptions for 370 yards back in 2023 in his second year in the league, and he could be a staple in PPR leagues with quarterback Aaron Rodgers showing a high tendency for dump-offs and checkdowns in this offense. Last year, Warren had 40 receptions on 45 targets for 333 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 16 regular-season games, and that was with Kenny Gainwell catching a whopping 73 passes for 486 yards and three touchdowns as a receiver.
Sep 8 · Source via Pittsburgh Steelers Jaylen WarrenBhayshul Tuten, Chris Rodriguez Jr. Listed as Co-Starters at RB
On the Jacksonville Jaguars' unofficial depth chart heading into Week 1 of the 2026 regular season this Sunday against the Cleveland Browns, running backs Bhayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez Jr. are listed as co-starters at the RB position. Tuten, a second-year back who had 307 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns in his rookie campaign last year, is expected to see most of the early-down rushing opportunities for the Jaguars this year, and he has the most fantasy football upside because of his explosive big-play abilities out of the backfield. However, Rodriguez's presence as a pass-catching and goal-line option for head coach Liam Coen's offense will certainly lower Tuten's overall ceiling in Year 2 in Duvall. Fantasy managers should keep in mind that pass-catching specialist LeQuint Allen Jr. (undisclosed) is trending towards missing the season opener, which could give C-Rod more work as a receiver out of the backfield. Going into the Week 1 matchup against Cleveland, Tuten is the preferred fantasy option as a low-end RB2/high-end RB3/flex, while Rodriguez will be more of a touchdown-dependent RB3/flex option in PPR formats.
Sep 8 · Source via Jacksonville Jaguars Chris Rodriguez Bhayshul TutenBreece Hall Trending Towards Being Active in Week 1
New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn said on Tuesday that running back Breece Hall (groin) is trending towards being ready for Week 1 this Sunday, Sept. 13, against the Tennessee Titans, according to Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic. Hall has been trending this way for a while after initially suffering a minor strain of his right groin during training camp practice on Aug. 17. The Jets held Hall out as a precaution to close out camp and the preseason, but he should be ready to return to practice on Wednesday, and as long as he does not have a setback later this week, he should be ready to take on his role as the bell-cow back for Gang Green on Sunday against Tennessee. If Hall is limited at all, though, look for Braelon Allen to take on a bigger change-of-pace role to get the season started. The 25-year-old Hall had his first 1,000-yard rushing season in 2025 in his fourth year in the league, adding four touchdowns on 243 rushing attempts across 16 starts. The former second-rounder added 36 catches for 350 yards and another score as a receiver. Hall should see enough volume alone to operate as a strong RB2 for fantasy managers in his fifth year in the NFL in a new offense led by veteran quarterback Geno Smith.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Jets Breece HallMakai Lemon Listed as Starting WR, Punt Returner
On the Philadelphia Eagles' unofficial depth chart released before Week 1, rookie first-round wide receiver Makai Lemon is listed as a starting WR and as the team's top punt-return option, according to Andrew DiCecco of InsideTheBirds.com. Although Lemon missed valuable development time in training camp this summer with a hamstring injury, he was always a lock to be a starter in three-wide sets to begin his rookie campaign in 2026 after the Eagles traded A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots in the offseason. However, Lemon should be viewed as more of a WR3 than a WR2 because of his quiet summer and Dontayvion Wicks' strong camp. The former USC star certainly has the potential to pass Wicks on the depth chart in 2026 by the end of the season, but early on, fantasy managers may want to temper expectations for Lemon. He is coming off a very productive final season with the Trojans in 2025, in which he caught 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games played. It is not a bad idea to keep Lemon on the bench in his NFL debut this Sunday night against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys. Lemon is rostered in 75% of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Philadelphia Eagles Makai LemonTyler Shough Belongs in the Week 1 Streaming Conversation
New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough is worth considering if you're already looking for a Week 1 streamer. He settled in once New Orleans gave him the job last season, throwing for 2,256 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions across nine starts while adding another 174 yards and three scores on the ground. That little bit of rushing helps here. Shough will go into 2026 as the starter, with Chris Olave still leading the receiver room, although rookie Jordyn Tyson will miss the beginning of the season on injured reserve. The matchup sends him to Detroit on Sunday, and the current Week 1 rankings have Shough at QB16 despite being rostered in only 43% of Yahoo leagues. He still makes the most sense in 14-team leagues or for managers who don't love their current starter, but this isn't just a desperation QB2. Shough can actually be used right away.
Sep 8 · Source via New Orleans Saints Tyler ShoughIsaac TeSlaa Shouldn't Be Ignored in Deeper Leagues
Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa has a better path to playing time than his rookie numbers would suggest. He caught only 16 passes for 239 yards last season, but six went for touchdowns, and Detroit enters Week 1 with just four receivers on the active roster. Greg Dortch was released, Kalif Raymond left in free agency, and general manager Brad Holmes said TeSlaa is stepping into the No. 3 job behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. The Lions also liked the progress he made as a route runner this summer. That does not make him a Week 1 starter. St. Brown, Williams, Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs are still going to command most of the touches, and RotoBaller has TeSlaa at WR71 for the opener against New Orleans. He is rostered in only 6% of Yahoo leagues and is best left for 14-team formats or deeper benches, where the new role is worth taking a shot on before we see what the target share looks like.
Sep 8 · Source via Detroit Lions Isaac TeSlaaSam Darnold Best Left on Waivers in Standard Leagues
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is a tougher sell as a Week 1 pickup than the name value suggests. He threw for 4,048 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, so the passing production itself isn't the concern. The problem for fantasy is what happens when the touchdowns don't come. Darnold added only 95 rushing yards and no scores on the ground in 2025, and he opens against New England, the team that held him to 202 yards and one touchdown in Super Bowl LX. Seattle still has Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp and Rashid Shaheed, so there is enough around him to get by if you're stuck. RotoBaller has Darnold at QB24 for Week 1 and rostered in 38% of Yahoo leagues, with the current waiver recommendation limited to 14-team formats. In a standard one-QB league, that's not enough to make him a priority. Leave him on the wire unless your options are already getting thin.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks Sam DarnoldCharlie Kolar Listed as Chargers' Starting Tight End
The Los Angeles Chargers have listed Charlie Kolar as the No. 1 tight end on their depth chart as they get set for their Week 1 matchup this Sunday, Sept. 13, against the Arizona Cardinals. Oronde Gadsden is listed behind Kolar, followed by David Njoku, Scott Matlock, and Evan Svoboda. It was clear from the outset that the Bolts had big plans for Kolar in new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's scheme when they signed him to a three-year, $24.3 million contract in free agency in March. Despite catching only 30 of his 41 targets for 409 yards and four touchdowns in his first four NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, the 27-year-old has a complete skill set at the position that the Chargers clearly value. Kolar is ahead of Gadsden on the depth chart for now, but it does not necessarily mean that he will become a must-start at the position in fantasy football leagues. For now, Kolar is an option for a waiver-wire pickup in deeper leagues for managers in need of TE depth. He is currently rostered in only 1% of Yahoo leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Los Angeles Chargers Charlie KolarJa'Kobi Lane a High-Upside Stash in Deeper PPR Leagues
Baltimore Ravens rookie wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane has done enough this summer to be worth tracking, though the waiver case is better in deeper PPR leagues than standard 12-team formats. Baltimore took Lane 80th overall in April after he caught 49 passes for 745 yards and four touchdowns in his final season at USC, and he kept showing up during camp. The Ravens said after roster cuts that Lane's emergence helped settle their No. 3 receiver question and projected him for a substantial role. That still leaves Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman ahead of him, with Mark Andrews involved underneath, so there may not be enough targets right away to use Lane against Indianapolis. RotoBaller currently has him rostered in 19% of Yahoo leagues and recommends him in 14-team PPR leagues. That feels like the right range. Lane is not a Week 1 starter, but the size, draft investment and camp buzz make him a worthwhile bench stash in deeper formats.
Sep 8 · Source via Baltimore Ravens Ja'Kobi LaneDalton Kincaid Looks Set for Bigger Role With Improved Health
Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid's on-field role with Buffalo has suffered in the last two years with the team because of injuries, but he just wrapped up the healthiest training camp he has had since his rookie year and had a big role in the offense during practices open to the media, according to The Athletic's Joe Buscaglia. Kincaid could become one of the most important pieces on the Bills' roster if he can "become a 60-65% snap player" and be just competent enough in blocking when he is on the field. The 26-year-old had 73 catches for 673 yards and two touchdowns on 91 targets as a rookie, but his snap counts fell in each of the last two years while dealing with nagging injuries. The former first-rounder from Utah did have a career-best five touchdowns in 12 games in 2025, but he played fewer than 50% of the offensive snaps. If Kincaid can maintain his high-end pass-catching efficiency and see the field more, he will have clear TE1 upside for fantasy managers in an offense that could be opened up by new deep-threat receiver DJ Moore.
Sep 8 · Source via Buffalo Bills Dalton KincaidDJ Moore Could be on the Field Constantly
The Athletic's Joe Buscaglia writes that wide receiver DJ Moore could help swing the Bills' 2026 season after he was their "crown jewel" of the offseason when they acquired him in a trade from the Chicago Bears. His contributions during training camp were "immediate and obvious" for the offense, with quarterback Josh Allen "routinely pushing the ball downfield" to Moore. Allen made a "concerted effort all summer" to build on-field chemistry with Moore. It is no secret that Buffalo brought Moore in to be their WR1. The days of "everybody eats" in the Bills' offense "seem to be in the rearview mirror," and Buscaglia does not think it would be surprising to see Moore on the field "consistently and for Allen to default to looking his way." With that said, Buscaglia also cautions that Moore could be a letdown. After all, he averaged only 824 yards per season the last two years in Chicago and seemed to have a disconnect with QB Caleb Williams. The good news for fantasy managers is that Moore should be guaranteed a high snap and target role in Buffalo, making him a high-floor WR3/flex each week. Ultimately, Moore's success (or lack thereof) could depend on the connection he develops with Allen.
Sep 8 · Source via Buffalo Bills DJ MooreT.J. Hockenson Only a Deep-League Waiver Add for Week 1
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson is still sitting on plenty of waiver wires, but that does not make him one of the better Week 1 tight end pickups. He is rostered in only 22% of Yahoo leagues after finishing 2025 with 51 catches for 438 yards and three touchdowns on 66 targets in 15 games. Minnesota's offensive-line problems were part of it. Hockenson had to stay in and chip more often, which cut into his routes. There has been at least one encouraging sign this summer, with Hockenson and new starting quarterback Kyler Murray connecting repeatedly in the red zone during camp. The target tree is still crowded with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jauan Jennings, though, and Hockenson has not been a reliable weekly fantasy starter lately. RotoBaller has him at TE22 for Week 1 and lists him as an add in 14-team leagues. That is probably where he belongs. In a standard 10- or 12-team league, there are better streaming bets on the wire.
Sep 8 · Source via Minnesota Vikings T.J. HockensonChargers D/ST an Excellent Option Against Cardinals
The Los Angeles Chargers D/ST is looking like a great streaming option for a Week 1 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals offense could struggle this season with Jacoby Brissett leading the way at quarterback. While they do have options with Trey McBride at tight end and Marvin Harrison Jr. at wide receiver, rookie running back Jeremiyah Love is still working his way back from injury. The Chargers still feature playmakers in Khalil Mack, Denzel Perryman, and Derwin James. Look for the Chargers to come out aggressive in Week 1 under new defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary and have a solid game against the Cardinals offense. With home matchups against the Cardinals and the Raiders in the first two weeks, the Chargers D/ST looks like a great play to begin the season
Sep 8 · Source via Los Angeles Chargers Los Angeles ChargersMalachi Fields Emerging As Target for Week 1
New York Giants wide receiver Malachi Fields is a rookie out of Notre Dame and might now be the No. 2 wide receiver for the Giants. Matt Legros of Giants Wire of USA Today broke down the latest Fields news, writing, "Malachi Fields is in line for a much larger role with the New York Giants after the team moved on from veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton on Monday. The rookie now has an opportunity to entrench himself as the No. 2 receiver opposite Malik Nabers." The No. 2 receiver in the Giants offense could be a productive role for Fields, who turned heads in camp, according to Legros: "Fields was particularly impressive during the preseason, showing strong hands and the ability to create plays downfield. He also connected well with quarterback Jaxson Dart, strengthening his case for meaningful snaps once the regular season begins." Fields looks like an impact player right out of the gate for the Giants.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Giants Malachi FieldsDontayvion Wicks Is a Potential Waiver-Wire Pickup
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks is a nice addition to the Eagles receiving corps coming from the Green Bay Packers, and he could challenge for the No. 2 receiver role in Philadelphia. He could also emerge as a popular early-season waiver wire pickup. The Eagles drafted Makai Lemon out of USC, but he might fit in more as a slot receiver with Wicks playing on the outside. Last year in Green Bay, Wicks was in a room full of talented receivers, but he did finish the season with 46 targets and 30 catches for 332 yards and two touchdowns. Reuben Frank of NBC Sports Philadelphia wrote that Wicks could expand his role in Philadelphia to more than a role player. He quoted Eagles wide receivers coach Aaron Moorehead: "There's nothing that should be holding him back from anything in this league. He can go out here and have as good a year as anybody. Exciting time for him to prove that, 'Hey, I can be more than what I was in Green Bay.'"
Sep 8 · Source via Philadelphia Eagles Dontayvion WicksRoschon Johnson Could Step Into Week 1 Role
Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson could have a larger role as a backup to D'Andre Swift because of an injury to Kyle Monangai. Johnson has been impressive in camp amidst Monangai's injury struggles and even earned the eye of new offensive coordinator Press Taylor. Ariana Pensy of the Bears Wire wrote about Taylor's praise of Johnson this off-season, writing, ""As Kyle goes down and Roschon's numbers increase and he got more opportunities, he proved to us that he's trustworthy. He can be in those situations if it comes down to it where we need him to carry a heavier load than we expected while being involved in special teams. That's something he's done well." Monangai returned to practice on Monday reportedly but is dealing with a hyperextension of his right knee. Should Monangai miss time, the Bears have faith in Johnson as a backup.
Sep 8 · Source via Chicago Bears Roschon JohnsonCaleb Douglas Brings a High Ceiling from the Waiver Wire
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Caleb Douglas had a strong showing in training camp and the preseason, and the rookie has the potential to be the team's top receiver this season. After trading Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos, the Dolphins will count on Douglas, Malik Washington, and Jalen Tolbert as their expected starters. Douglas was a third-round pick out of Texas Tech and brings big-play potential, as he showed with highlight-reel catches throughout the preseason. He may be held back by the run-heavy Dolphins' offense with QB Malik Willis under center, but since he could develop into the team's No. 1 receiver by midseason, he definitely has the upside to be a fantasy factor. If you can stash him off the waiver wire in deep leagues, he's one of the few options with such a large potential role so easily available. He's only the WR84 in RotoBaller's Week 1 rankings, so he isn't a flex option yet, but his later-season potential gives him intriguing upside.
Sep 8 · Source via Miami Dolphins Caleb DouglasNajee Harris Could Earn a Role in New York
New York Giants running back Najee Harris will be an important name to monitor early in the season after the veteran signed a one-year deal to join new coach John Harbaugh in New York. He is expected to play a significant role behind starter Cam Skattebo, and he will compete for snaps with Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary for backup work. Tracy struggled in pass protection this preseason, which may be part of the reason that Harris was added. The 28-year-old veteran was limited to just three games with Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers last season, suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in late September after missing training camp due to a fireworks accident. He was a workhorse in his first four seasons in the league for the Steelers, racking up over 1,000 rushing yards and playing all 17 games each year. His role with the Giants is uncertain, which is why he's only RotoBaller's No. 53 RB for Week 1, indicating he isn't in the mix to start in most formats. However, he is a solid handcuff for Skattebo and could work his way into a large enough role to be a deep-league flex option by the time we reach bye weeks.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Giants Najee HarrisMalik Nabers Should Be "Good to Go"
New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers (knee) sounds like he will be "good to go for Sunday night," according to ESPN's Dan Graziano. Nabers is coming back from a torn ACL that ended his 2025 season after four games, but it looks like he'll be ready to play in Week 1. Last year, he had 18 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns before his injury after an impressive rookie year with 1,204 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games, despite iffy QB play. This year, he'll work with Jaxson Dart as the team's top receiver under new head coach John Harbaugh and new offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. The team added wide receiver Darnell Mooney and tight end Isaiah Likely, but Nabers should remain the focal point of the offense and be set for as large a target share as he can handle. Since it will be his first game back, Nabers is the No. 16 WR in RotoBaller's Week 1 rankings, but he definitely has top-10 upside even though he'll take on an improved Dallas defense on Sunday Night Football. If you drafted Nabers as a starter, be sure to get him in your lineups this week since he seems to be all systems go for Week 1.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Giants Malik NabersGeorge Holani Brings Early-Season Upside
Seattle Seahawks running back George Holani could be very involved in the Seahawks' backfield rotation, as they begin the defense of their Super Bowl title. After the injury to Zach Charbonnet (knee) and the departure of Kenneth Walker III, the Seahawks are expected to share time between rookie Jadarian Price, Holani, and free-agent addition Emanuel Wilson. Price is expected to lead the way, but he has missed time over the past few weeks with muscle soreness and did not play a single snap in the preseason. Wilson is expected to be the power option, but Holani has an interesting mix of third-down and short-yardage skills that should make him an interesting contributor, especially while Price adjusts to NFL speed. Especially early in the year, Holani's experience in the team's system could help him be trusted to handle high-value touches on both passing downs and in scoring position. He's the No. 56 RB in Week 1 in RotoBaller's rankings, so he is not a FLEX consideration for the team's opener against the Patriots. However, it does make sense to snag him in deep leagues in case he gets those key plays and production early in the season with Price ramping up.
Sep 8 · Source via Seattle Seahawks George HolaniAdonai Mitchell Makes a Solid Stash for Depth
New York Jets wide receiver Adonai Mitchell has the potential to post a breakout season in his first full year with the Jets if he can build on a strong training camp. The speedy receiver has the raw tools to make him relevant in all formats, but he has struggled to be consistent throughout his NFL career. The Colts drafted Mitchell in the second round out of Texas, but he never earned consistent playing time before being traded to the Jets as part of the Sauce Gardner deal. With New York, he averaged over seven targets per game and finished the year with 24 catches for 301 yards and two touchdowns in eight games. None of those games were with top receiver Garrett Wilson in the mix, so his target share could drop with Wilson's return and the additions of rookie pass-catchers Omar Cooper Jr. and tight end Kenyon Sadiq. Even with a slightly smaller workload, though, Mitchell still has upside after receiving praise for his work in training camp to develop his connection with new QB Geno Smith. He appears set to open the year as the WR2 in New York, and he is the WR62 in RotoBaller's Week 1 rankings against the Titans. While he doesn't look like a Week 1 starter in most formats, he does make sense as a stash in deep leagues due to his long-term potential and solid role.
Sep 8 · Source via New York Jets Adonai MitchellTre' Harris Should Produce in Chargers Offense
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Tre' Harris is a potential Year 2 breakout candidate, especially as the Chargers' offense continues to trend upward. Not every team can support a fantasy-relevant outlook for their No. 3 receiver, but Los Angeles' offense is powerful enough to make Harris an intriguing stash in 12+ team leagues. Quarterback Justin Herbert averaged 32 pass attempts per game last year, despite drastically lowering his total number of pass attempts in the second half of the season while managing an injury. A fully healthy Herbert might throw the ball 35 times a game, and many of those targets will go to Harris, his No. 3 option in the passing attack. The 24-year-old receiver already started to flash upside as a rookie last year, catching 30 passes for 324 yards and one touchdown. Although he is playing behind Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston, he has an opportunity to step into a bigger role if either of those receivers suffer from drop issues or miss time due to injury. It's way too early to confidently insert Harris into your lineups, but he's at least worth adding off the waiver wire in 12+ team leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Los Angeles Chargers Tre' HarrisPatriots Sign Christian Gonzalez to a Four-Year Extension
The New England Patriots have signed star cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a four-year, $135 million contract extension, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The deal includes $102 million guaranteed. By signing this new contract, Gonzalez earns $33.75 million per season, and he officially becomes the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. The Pro Bowler's contract had been a topic of discussion all offseason, and the two sides were able to reach an agreement less than 48 hours before the Patriots' regular season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. It's a well-deserved payday for the 24-year-old, who made 69 tackles, defended 10 passes, and earned a 65.8 PFF defense grade last season. Now that he has his new nine-figure deal, Gonzalez will turn around and be tasked with covering Seahawks star wide receiver (and reigning Offensive Player of the Year) Jaxon Smith-Njigba on primetime television.
Sep 8 · Source via New England Patriots Christian GonzalezEmmett Johnson Worth Rostering as Handcuff in Powerful Offense
Kansas City Chiefs running back Emmett Johnson may be a fifth-round rookie, but he's already on the fantasy radar as a potential waiver wire target. Johnson will open the year as the Chiefs' No. 2 running back, largely because he impressed the coaching staff so much with his pass-blocking ability. We may not see Johnson carve out standalone fantasy value on a weekly basis in his current role, but he would jump to the lead-back role and possess RB2 value if workhorse Kenneth Walker III were to miss time. It's worth noting that the ex-Seahawk missed at least two games every year from 2022 through 2024, so Walker's managers would be justified in adding his handcuff off the waiver wire. Because of his potential to feast if Walker misses any time, Johnson should be picked up off the waiver wire in all leagues with 12+ teams.
Sep 8 · Source via Kansas City Chiefs Emmett JohnsonJalen McMillan's Experience an Advantage in Depth-Chart Competition
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (knee) is competing for the No. 3 role on the depth chart, and his experience in the Bucs' offense gives him an early advantage over his teammates. Chris Godwin Sr. and Emeka Egbuka (toe) project as Tampa Bay's top two wideouts, leaving McMillan and Ted Hurst III vying for the next spot in the pecking order. The good news for McMillan is that Hurst is a rookie, which means his ascension into a meaningful role might be delayed as he adapts to NFL speed. On the other hand, McMillan has been in the NFL since 2024 and has 17 games' worth of experience (plus three offseasons) under his belt. His familiarity with the system and his connection with quarterback Baker Mayfield go a long way, especially considering that McMillan averaged 10.4 fantasy points per game in PPR leagues as a rookie. Managers should expect McMillan to open the year as the Bucs' No. 3 wide receiver, which also puts him on the fantasy radar in deeper leagues. The 24-year-old is a matchup-dependent WR3/flex as it is, and he would jump into the WR3 tier on a consistent basis if Godwin or Egbuk were to miss time. As a result, McMillan should be added off the waiver wire in all 12+ team leagues.
Sep 8 · Source via Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jalen McMillanChristian McCaffrey in Full Uniform for Tuesday's practice in Australia
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (undisclosed) is in full uniform for the team's practice in Melbourne, Australia, on Tuesday, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN. The team's final injury report for the day will tell us more about CMC's status for the Week 1 showdown on Thursday against the division-rival Los Angeles Rams, but it looks like he is heading in the right direction to be active. The Niners kept McCaffrey in bubble wrap during the preseason, and he has been sitting out of practices for several weeks due to undisclosed tightness. The star RB said the plan was always for the team to play it safe with him to have him fully ready for the start of the 2026 regular season, and it makes sense given his lengthy injury history. Until further notice, there is no reason for fantasy managers to pull CMC out of their starting lineups for Week 1. The 30-year-old four-time Pro Bowler and 2023 Offensive Player of the Year is a league-winner if he stays healthy, which is what he did in 2025, when he ran for 1,202 yards and 10 touchdowns while adding 102 receptions for 924 yards and seven touchdowns in 17 regular-season games.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers Christian McCaffreyDe'Zhaun Stribling in Full Uniform for Practice
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling (shoulder) was seen wearing his full uniform for Tuesday's practice in Australia, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com. It should be noted that this practice is occurring on Tuesday in Australian local time, but the timing lines up with Monday night for folks in the Pacific Time Zone of the United States. Time zone specifics aside, fantasy managers should feel encouraged that the rookie was able to don full pads with the 49ers' season opener less than three days away. Assuming he suits up for Week 1 against the Los Angeles Rams, Stribling projects to handle a decent workload alongside Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel Sr. We wouldn't recommend starting the 23-year-old in fantasy lineups until we see what his role looks like, but he's absolutely worth stashing on the bench in 12+ team leagues and even some deeper 10-team formats, too.
Sep 8 · Source via San Francisco 49ers De'Zhaun StriblingMalik Davis a Priority Handcuff on the Waiver Wire
Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis is the undisputed No. 2 option on the depth chart, making him a priority target on the waiver wire in fantasy football. Specifically, he has appeal as a handcuff for managers in 14+ team leagues, as well as managers who have Javonte Williams in leagues with 10 or 12 teams. Williams is expected to occupy an every-down role this season, which means he's a candidate for some wear and tear. If he were to miss any time due to injury, his managers would want to be ready to plug and play his replacement, which would be Davis. Adding Davis off the waiver wire doesn't give managers a running back with standalone weekly fantasy value, but rather protects those managers in case Williams misses any time this season. We saw what Davis could do in the lead-back role last year, as he totaled 28 carries, 124 rushing yards, and one touchdown across the two games in which Williams played less than 50% of the snaps.
Sep 8 · Source via Dallas Cowboys Malik DavisRay Davis Offers Late-Round Value
Buffalo Bills running back Ray Davis doesn't offer much standalone value, but is an intriguing handcuff option. Davis hasn't seen a ton of work on the ground due to the fact that James Cook has been mostly healthy. However, Davis remains one of the more popular handcuff options because of the way the Bills love to pound the ball on the ground. The 26-year-old only rushed the ball 58 times last season, but averaged 4.74 yards per carry. Davis is successful when he gets an opportunity, but his chances have been limited so far during his two years in the league. Davis isn't a must-roster player, but is someone worth considering during the final round on Draft Day due to his potential upside if Cook ever goes down.
Sep 7 · Source via Buffalo Bills Ray DavisGeorge Kittle's Week 1 Workload is Undecided
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (Achilles) was seen participating in practice on Monday. 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak says Kittle looks good for the season opener, but his workload is still to be determined, Cam Inman reports. Kittle still needs to get through a few more practices, but is trending towards playing on Thursday versus the Los Angeles Rams. The 32-year-old made an incredibly quick recovery from a torn right Achilles that he suffered during a playoff game in January. When healthy, Kittle is a top-tier tight end, but fantasy managers might need to be patient with him for a game or two.
Sep 7 · Source via San Francisco 49ers George KittleRashod Bateman is Avoidable in Redraft Formats
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman is trending in the wrong direction heading into the regular season. Bateman could be facing a suspension by the league after getting arrested on violence charges in June. The investigation is not over yet, but a potential suspension does significantly hurt Bateman's value. Bateman is currently the No. 2 option behind Zay Flowers on the depth chart. Rookie Ja'Kobi Lane appears to be quickly gaining ground and could jump Bateman for that spot soon. The 26-year-old finished with 19 receptions for 224 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 13 games with the Ravens last season. Fantasy managers in redraft formats can find a much more reliable option than Bateman.
Sep 7 · Source via Baltimore Ravens Rashod BatemanChig Okonkwo Could be Headed Towards Breakout Campaign
Washington Commanders tight end Chig Okonkwo is likely an afterthought for most fantasy managers, but he deserves a serious look this upcoming season. The Commanders signed Okonkwo to a three-year deal this past offseason. The assumption is that they gave him a long-term deal with the intention of him operating as the top pass-catching tight end. The 27-year-old was recently listed as the starter on the unofficial depth chart. Okonkwo has posted three straight seasons with 50 receptions or more. He'll now be in a better offense led by quarterback Jayden Daniels. If everything goes right, Okonkwo has legitimate top-12 upside with his new organization.
Sep 7 · Source via Washington Commanders Chigoziem Okonkwo