NFL fantasy football news and player signals for Wednesday, September 9, 2026

At 40 years old, Johnson serves as Cincinnati's third quarterback on a $1.5 million veteran minimum deal; the source argues this money could've been spent on a younger, more interesting developmental option the Bengals could keep behind Burrow long term.

At 41 years old, Flacco no longer provides much upside as Cincinnati's backup; he was a sack and turnover machine at times last season, and his $6 million salary is a huge overpay relative to his performance on the field.

Burrow is an established postseason force but hasn't seriously factored into MVP or All-Pro conversation; after three consecutive seasons of missing the playoffs (including two with injuries), it's fair to wonder whether he'll deliver a return on his current $275 million deal.

At age 40, Johnson is Cincinnati's third-string QB on a veteran minimum deal ($1.5M); the source argues this salary could have been spent on a younger, more interesting developmental option the Bengals could keep behind Burrow long term, making it an inefficient use of roster resources.

At age 41, Flacco serves as Bengals backup but no longer provides much upside; was a sack and turnover machine at times last season; his $6 million salary is characterized as a huge overpay relative to his on-field performance.

Burrow is described as arguably the most talented QB in the league and an established postseason force, but has not seriously factored into MVP or All-Pro conversation; after three consecutive seasons of missing the playoffs (including two with injuries), there is fair question whether he will deliver a return on his current $275 million contract.

Courtland Sutton was named captain for the sixth consecutive year, reflecting peer trust and respect; he emphasizes that the team has strong leadership across the roster and that Coach Sean Payton and GM George Paton have brought the right guys into the locker room, creating a standard of excellence that allows nine players to serve as captains.

Bo Nix is set to return to the field after an ankle injury ended his and the Broncos' season; he is one of the team's leaders and is described as a super talented quarterback whose return has the team champing at the bit to play in the Week 1 Monday Night Football matchup against Kansas City.

Named captain for the sixth consecutive year, reflecting peer trust and leadership standing. Sutton emphasized the team's deep leadership culture under Sean Payton and George Paton, noting 'we could have 15, 20 guys be captains on this team' due to the standard set in the locker room. Highlighted Devon Key's undrafted-to-captain journey as inspirational for the roster.

QB set to return to the field after an ankle injury ended his and the Broncos' season; produced a game-winning drive in the previous Christmas Day matchup at Arrowhead against Kansas City (with Chiefs on injured reserve), moving Denver to 13-3. Wil Lutz noted that 'everybody's just ready to play' and that 'Bo is one of our leaders, and we know what Bo's capable of and he's obviously a super talented quarterback.'

Mike Tomlin spending too much time in Minecraft bro It’s JSN not JNS 😭

If Terrance Ferguson had “WR” next to his name instead of “TE,” far more people would be paying attention 👀 (via Yahoo Fantasy Forecast) [Retweeted](

Rome Odunze has a calf injury and would have been limited in practice if the Bears had a session on Wednesday (the injury report is an estimation). Ben Johnson said yesterday that Odunze is day-to-day but the team is hopeful about his availability for Carolina. Ozzy Trapilo (knee) is listed as limited while Tyson Bagent has a back injury and would have been DNP. [Retweeted](

Rome Odunze has a calf injury and would have been limited in practice if the Bears had a session on Wednesday (the injury report is an estimation). Ben Johnson said yesterday that Odunze is day-to-day but the team is hopeful about his availability for Carolina. Ozzy Trapilo (knee) is listed as limited while Tyson Bagent has a back injury and would have been DNP. [Retweeted](

Drake Maye.

I am so excited to finally find out exactly how the team splits up Jadarian Price vs George Holani Most recent report was Price = lead rusher, Holani = pass game + goal line Let the games begin

I am so excited to finally find out exactly how the team splits up Jadarian Price vs George Holani Most recent report was Price = lead rusher, Holani = pass game + goal line Let the games begin

The NFL MVP runner-up quarterback will have a significantly more imposing receiving corps with the addition of A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs as his top targets for the season-opening Super Bowl 60 rematch against the Seahawks.

The receiver was added to the Patriots' receiving corps as one of NFL MVP runner-up Drake Maye's top targets, giving New England a significantly more imposing offensive weapon group for the season-opening Super Bowl 60 rematch against the Seahawks.

The receiver was added to the Patriots' receiving corps as one of NFL MVP runner-up Drake Maye's top targets, giving New England a significantly more imposing offensive weapon group for the season-opening Super Bowl 60 rematch against the Seahawks.

Lan Larison is active as a running back on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster after being promoted from the practice squad; Larison is a sophomore who has never played in an NFL game and is making his debut.

TreVeyon Henderson is ruled out for the Patriots' Week 1 game against Seattle; Henderson is inactive and is one of only two non-healthy scratches among the inactives.

Reggie Gilliam is active as the fullback on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster; the Patriots activated Gilliam along with four tight ends to establish a consistent presence on the ground, something the Patriots failed to do in their Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks.

Eli Raridon is active as one of four tight ends on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster; Raridon is making his NFL debut.

Cameron Latu is active as one of four tight ends on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster and is specifically highlighted as a player who could help shore up protection in front of Drake Maye against one of the most disruptive defensive lines in football.

Tanner Arkin is active as one of four tight ends on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster and is specifically highlighted as a player who could help shore up protection in front of Drake Maye against one of the most disruptive defensive lines in football; Arkin is making his NFL debut.

Hunter Henry is active as the lead tight end on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster; the Patriots activated all four tight ends to help establish a consistent ground presence and provide protection in front of Drake Maye against Seattle's disruptive defensive line.

A.J. Brown is active as the top wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against Seattle.

Rhamondre Stevenson is active as the lead running back on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster; the team activated four tight ends and fullback Reggie Gilliam to establish a consistent presence on the ground, something the Patriots failed to do in their Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks.

Drake Maye is the starting quarterback for the Patriots' Week 1 matchup against Seattle; the Patriots activated four tight ends and fullback Reggie Gilliam partly to help shore up protection in front of Maye against one of the most disruptive defensive lines in football.

TreVeyon Henderson is ruled out for the Patriots' Week 1 game against the Seahawks. The source notes that Henderson is the only non-healthy scratch among the inactives, indicating an injury status rather than a roster decision.

Lan Larison, a sophomore running back, is active on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster after being promoted from the practice squad. He has never played in an NFL game and will make his debut on Wednesday against the Seahawks.

Corey Kiner is active as a running back on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks.

Kyle Williams is active as a wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks.

Mack Hollins is active as a wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks.

DeMario Douglas is active as a wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks.

Romeo Doubs is active as a wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks.

Reggie Gilliam, the fullback, is active on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster. The Patriots activated all four tight ends plus Gilliam to establish a consistent ground presence and address a weakness from their Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks.

Eli Raridon, a rookie tight end, is active on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks. He is one of nine players making his NFL debut on Wednesday.

Cameron Latu, a tight end, is active for the Patriots' Week 1 game against Seattle and is specifically highlighted as helping to shore up pass protection in front of Drake Maye against one of the most disruptive defensive lines in football.

Tanner Arkin, a rookie tight end, is active for the Patriots' Week 1 game against Seattle and is specifically highlighted as helping to shore up pass protection in front of Drake Maye against one of the most disruptive defensive lines in football. Arkin is one of nine players making his NFL debut on Wednesday.

Hunter Henry is active as one of four tight ends on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster. The Patriots activated all four tight ends plus fullback Reggie Gilliam to establish ground presence and help shore up pass protection for Drake Maye against Seattle's disruptive defensive line.

A.J. Brown is active as the top wide receiver on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against the Seahawks, listed as WR #1.

Rhamondre Stevenson is active as the primary running back on the Patriots' Week 1 game day roster against Seattle. The Patriots activated all four tight ends plus fullback Reggie Gilliam to establish a consistent ground presence, addressing a weakness from their Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks.

Drake Maye is the starting quarterback for the Patriots' Week 1 season opener against the Seahawks. The source notes that protection in front of Maye is a crucial area for New England given the Seahawks' disruptive defensive line, with tight ends Tanner Arkin and Cameron Latu specifically activated to help shore up pass protection.

Wan'Dale Robinson is on the Tennessee Titans' active roster entering the 2026 season.

Seth McGowan is on the Indianapolis Colts' active roster entering the 2026 season.

Kendrick Law is on the Detroit Lions' reserve/injured list for the 2026 season.

Chris Rodriguez Jr. is on the Jacksonville Jaguars' active roster entering the 2026 season; the Jaguars are coming off a playoff berth last season and have five former Kentucky Wildcats with the team in some capacity, including head coach Liam Coen in his second season.

Ja'Mori Maclin, an undrafted free agent wide receiver, made the Buffalo Bills' practice squad for the 2026 season.

Ray Davis is on the Buffalo Bills' active roster entering the 2026 season; Buffalo leads the league with four former Kentucky Wildcats on their roster, and the Bills are coming off a playoff berth last season.

Jacobs has been placed on the commissioner's exempt list after being charged with battery and criminal damage to property over a domestic incident at his home in May; he has a court date this month that could change his status but cannot play or practice, opening the door for MarShawn Lloyd to assume the Packers' lead running back role.

Odunze is dealing with a foot injury heading into Week 1, which could leave Luther Burden in line for increased target volume against the Panthers.

Bowers is expected to be out in Week 1 with a meniscus injury, which will force the Raiders to lean heavily on Ashton Jeanty in the running game.

Lloyd is expected to be the Packers' No. 1 running back in Week 1 after Josh Jacobs was placed on the commissioner's exempt list due to a domestic incident charge. However, Lloyd's career has been plagued by injuries: he tore his ACL before his first college season, missed time with thigh and hamstring injuries at South Carolina, and suffered hamstring, hip, and ankle injuries in 2024 before missing the entire 2025 regular season. The source notes Lloyd spent the offseason working with a doctor who identified lingering ACL issues causing compensatory hip and ankle problems; Lloyd has adjusted his training and made it through camp and preseason intact. The Packers may also use veteran Chris Brooks and possibly Pierre Strong Jr. or Kaleb Johnson in Week 1 against a sturdy Minnesota run defense (9th in DVOA vs. run, 3.9 yards per carry allowed).

Willis has made six career starts with mixed results: three poor starts with Tennessee (50.8% completion, 4.5 yards per attempt, 0 TDs, 3 INTs as a rookie) followed by three starts with Green Bay where he completed 78.7% of throws, averaged 10.9 yards per attempt, with 6 TDs and 0 INTs. Willis is an elite runner, averaging 44.8 rushing yards per game and 8.5 fantasy points per game with his legs alone across six starts; if he makes 17 starts for Miami, he could run for 1,000 yards. However, his fantasy relevance will depend heavily on his legs rather than his arm given Miami's young and inexperienced pass-catcher group (Chris Bell, Caleb Douglas, Kevin Coleman Jr., and veteran trio with Tolbert's 610-yard season high).

Burden, a second-round 2024 pick, averaged 10.9 yards per target and 2.34 yards per route run (including playoffs) in his rookie year, establishing himself as one of the quickest players in the NFL and a nightmare to cover from the slot. Bears head coach Ben Johnson, who developed Amon-Ra St. Brown into a superstar in Detroit, has gushed over Burden throughout the offseason. With Chicago expected to play in high-volume shootouts due to a potentially weak defense, and Rome Odunze dealing with a foot injury, Burden could see heavy target volume in Week 1 against the Panthers.

Jeanty finished RB11 in PPR and RB16 in fantasy points per game as a rookie despite playing in an abominable Raiders offense with a decimated offensive line; the source projects significant upside in 2026 with new head coach Klint Kubiak (who led Seattle to 10th in offensive DVOA, 10th in rushing yards, and 7th in TDs), left tackle Kolton Miller now healthy, and the addition of elite center Tyler Linderbaum. The Raiders will lean heavily on Jeanty in Week 1 with TE Brock Bowers out with a meniscus injury.

Vikings WR fantasy value will be clarified by Week 1 matchup vs. Packers with new QB Kyler Murray, following season in which teammate Justin Jefferson endured career-worst production.

WR endured worst season of career in 2025 with J.J. McCarthy overwhelmed as NFL QB, finishing with 84 catches, 1,048 yards, two TDs. Week 1 matchup vs. Packers with new QB Kyler Murray will clarify fantasy value for 2026 season.

Rookie RB expected to play Week 1 vs. Dolphins after low-ankle sprain scare at Raiders practice (initial reports suggested serious injury when teammates took knee and music stopped). As rookie in abominable Raiders offense, posted 975 rushing yards, five rushing TDs, 55 catches for 346 yards and five TDs, finishing RB11 in PPR and RB16 in fantasy points per game. New HC Klint Kubiak is strong offensive choreographer and running-game designer; as Seahawks OC last season, Kubiak's system should improve Raiders' offensive efficiency.

QB joins Vikings and faces Week 1 home matchup vs. Packers that will clarify fantasy value for 2026. Career passing stats: 67.1% completion, 235.2 passing yards per game over seven seasons. Fantasy upside driven by rushing ability; averaged 33.3 rushing yards per game over past five seasons (though never approached 2020's 819 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs). Recent fantasy finishes: QB11, QB4, QB4, QB7, QB9, QB12, QB20 (2019-2025). Packers defense vulnerable: missing superstar pass rusher Micah Parsons (torn ACL recovery) and have suspect cornerbacks.

Hall of Famer joins 49ers under Kyle Shanahan after 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and 105 TDs with Buccaneers. Now 33 years old with soft-tissue injury history over past two years; played only eight games last season with 30-368-3 receiving and 5.9 yards per target—significant decline from career norms. Key question: can Evans still separate and make contested catches at elite level? Makes 49ers debut Thursday night vs. Rams in Australia; 49ers may need big game from new receiver to compete with Super Bowl favorites.

WR emerged as fantasy darling after strong finish to 2026 season. Over Jacksonville's final four games (including playoff loss to Bills), averaged 10.3 targets, 6.5 catches, 113.5 yards with three TDs. Efficiency metrics: 8.9 yards per target, 2.19 yards per route run, 0.24 targets per route run—higher target-per-route-run rate than teammates Brian Thomas Jr. and Jakobi Meyers. Slot receivers have thrived in Liam Coen's offenses; Trevor Lawrence prefers throwing to slot guys. Washington expected to toggle between slot and Z receiver. Standout training camp performance with Lawrence lavishing praise. Week 1 home matchup vs. Browns.

RB acquired by Chiefs in free agency after seeking larger role in Seattle. Thrived in workhorse capacity during Seahawks' playoff run following Zach Charbonnet's ACL tear, posting 100+ scrimmage yards in all three playoff games and four TDs. Andy Reid's historical RB production: LeSean McCoy (1,300 rushing yards, 20 TDs in Philadelphia), Brian Westbrook (1,200-1,300 rushing yards, 1,900-2,100 scrimmage yards with double-digit TDs), Jamaal Charles (1,000+ rushing yards in first three KC seasons, ~1,700 scrimmage yards and 13 TDs annually). Walker is electric runner; Chiefs plan screen-game involvement with Reid as elite screen-pass designer. Downside: daunting Monday-night debut vs. Broncos defense.

WR cleared to play in Giants' Sunday-night opener vs. Cowboys after tearing ACL in September 2025. Offseason recovery concerns emerged from charity softball footage showing hobbling gait, but Nabers is reportedly good to go. Key questions: full snap count availability, performance against improved Dallas defense under new DC Christian Parker, and durability on MetLife Stadium's notoriously problematic playing surface.

Second-year RB under new Chargers OC Mike McDaniel, who previously engineered elite production from De'Von Achane (5.6 yards per carry, 35 TDs in 44 games, 78 and 67 catches in seasons). Hampton showed tantalizing early-season form before ankle fracture in Week 5 (19-70-1 rushing, 6-59-0 receiving vs. Denver in Week 3; 12-128-1 rushing, 5-37-0 receiving vs. Giants in Week 4), then scored three TDs in four games upon return and had eight-catch performance vs. Texans. Concerns: Keaton Mitchell added in offseason and Kimani Vidal performed well during Hampton's absence. Week 1 vs. Cardinals in run-friendly matchup should clarify usage.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer identified CeeDee Lamb as a star receiver that Caleb Downs can cover up the seam, indicating Lamb's role in the Cowboys offense and his matchup profile against defensive backs.

An NFC scout projects Dak Prescott will have a big year in 2026, citing the Cowboys' scoring ability and improved defense as supporting factors. The source also notes that some fans believe Prescott has a chance at MVP this year, though the narrative aspect of MVP voting typically requires something special for the team at large, as the award is often handed to the quarterback on the best team.

An NFC scout stated 'I think Dak [Prescott] will have a big year; we know they can score; and the defense should be much improved,' supporting the narrative that the Cowboys have a good chance to win the NFC East if they stay healthy; some fans believe Prescott also has a chance at MVP this year, though the source notes MVP is often handed out to the quarterback on the best team.

Can't wait for JSN vs. Christian Gonzalez

George Pickens on Greg Newsome saying Giants have best CB room in the NFL, via @​jonmachota: “That’s definitely how he should feel. Now, how we should feel, I’d definitely say a completely different story. That’s cool that he thinks that.”

George Pickens on Greg Newsome saying Giants have best CB room in the NFL, via @​jonmachota: “That’s definitely how he should feel. Now, how we should feel, I’d definitely say a completely different story. That’s cool that he

Can’t believe I get to watch JSN play football soon

Tight end Nick Kallerup is inactive for the Seahawks in Week 1.

Wide receiver Tory Horton is inactive for the Seahawks in Week 1.

Jalen Milroe is inactive for the Seahawks in Week 1, listed as QB on the inactives list.

Behren Morton serves as the emergency quarterback for the Patriots in Week 1, listed as QB3 on the inactives list.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson, who suffered an ankle injury in practice on Aug. 24, remained sidelined throughout preparation for Week 1 and was ruled out despite making the trip to Seattle.

Efton Chism III has been deemed a healthy scratch for the Patriots' Week 1 opener against the Seahawks. The second-year wideout spent the summer as the last option among New England's roster-caliber receivers; while he saw regular action with the starting offense around quarterback Drake Maye as a do-it-all injury replacement, his role was that of a backup. With the rest of the receiver group healthy for Week 1, the game plan did not call for his use.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson suffered an ankle injury in practice on August 24 and remained sidelined throughout preparation for the Patriots' Week 1 game against Seattle. Despite making the trip to Seattle, he was eventually ruled out and did not play.

Efton Chism has been deemed a healthy scratch for the Patriots' Week 1 opener against Seattle. The second-year wideout spent the offseason as the last option among New England's roster-caliber receivers; while he saw regular action with the starting offense during preseason as an injury replacement, his role was that of a backup. With the rest of the group healthy for Week 1, the game plan did not call for his usage.

First order of business is testing the run D w Emmanwori/Okada out. Hope Stevenson is ready for 20+ carries. PA Shot plays (get Kyle Williams matched up with Josh Jobe), pick on Nehemiah Pritchett with Doubs/Douglas, target Brown any time Witherspoon isn't on him. [Quoted](

First order of business is testing the run D w Emmanwori/Okada out. Hope Stevenson is ready for 20+ carries. PA Shot plays (get Kyle Williams matched up with Josh Jobe), pick on Nehemiah Pritchett with Doubs/Douglas, target Brown any time Witherspoon isn't on him. [Quoted](

First order of business is testing the run D w Emmanwori/Okada out. Hope Stevenson is ready for 20+ carries. PA Shot plays (get Kyle Williams matched up with Josh Jobe), pick on Nehemiah Pritchett with Doubs/Douglas, target Brown any time Witherspoon isn't on him. [Quoted](

Wide receiver Efton Chism III is among the Patriots' inactives for the season opener.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson is among the Patriots' inactives for the season opener due to an ankle injury.

Quarterback Behren Morton is among the Patriots' inactives for the season opener and will serve as the emergency third quarterback.

Tight end Nick Kallerup is among the Seahawks' inactives for the season opener.

Quarterback Jalen Milroe is among the Seahawks' inactives for the season opener and will serve as the emergency third quarterback.

Wide receiver Tory Horton is among the Seahawks' inactives for the season opener due to a hamstring injury.

Romeo Doubs was added to the New England Patriots offense in 2026, expected to strengthen the Patriots' offensive weapons alongside A.J. Brown.

A.J. Brown was added to the New England Patriots offense in 2026, expected to strengthen the Patriots' offensive weapons alongside Romeo Doubs.

AJ Barner caught a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX, demonstrating his role as a receiving target in the Seahawks' championship-winning offense.

The source notes that New England's offense should be stronger with the addition of Romeo Doubs, positioning him as part of the Patriots' offensive upgrade for the 2026 season.

The source notes that New England's offense should be stronger with the addition of A.J. Brown, positioning him as a key offensive weapon for the Patriots in their matchup against the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks.

Barner caught a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX, demonstrating his role in the Seahawks' championship-winning offense and establishing him as a target in the red zone.

Seahawks down 2 safeties. I especially like this matchup for Hunter Henry. [Quoted](

Rookie receiver Zachariah Branch is limited in Week 1 practice due to a hamstring injury. The source flags hamstrings as tricky injuries and notes Branch is expected to factor into the offense and special teams, but his availability remains uncertain heading into the Steelers matchup.

Michael Penix Jr. was a full participant in Falcons Week 1 practice despite a knee injury. The source notes he is being slowly brought back into the offense when ready, with Tua Tagovailoa serving as the starter in the interim.

Rookie WR Zachariah Branch is limited due to a hamstring injury heading into Week 1. The source notes he is expected to factor into the offense and special teams, but emphasizes that hamstrings are tricky injuries, warranting caution on his availability and early-season role.

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. is listed as Limited on the injury report due to a knee injury, but the source reports he is practicing fully. Tua Tagovailoa will serve as the team's starter while Penix is slowly brought back in when ready, suggesting a cautious return timeline but no major setback.

Inactive for the New England Patriots in their opening night rematch against the Seattle Seahawks.

Preseason standout positioned for extra snaps as the Seahawks will only have four active receivers with Tory Horton out due to hamstring injury.

Second-year wide receiver out due to a hamstring injury suffered in training camp; he missed the back-end of last season with a cracked tibia, creating durability concerns.

Inactive for Patriots vs. Seahawks game.

Inactive for Patriots vs. Seahawks game.

Inactive for Seahawks vs. Patriots game.

Preseason standout positioned for extra snaps due to receiver injuries; with Seahawks down to only four active receivers (Tory Horton and Nick Emmanwori out), Foster Jr. likely to see increased offensive opportunities.

Out due to hamstring injury suffered in training camp; second-year wide receiver who missed back-end of last season with cracked tibia; his absence reduces Seahawks receiver depth to four active receivers.

Jayden Higgins is out for the season with a torn ACL, which opens up additional target volume for Dalton Schultz in the Houston passing game.

Greg Dulcich is a potential sleeper at tight end for Miami. Injuries have kept him from fully taking flight over his first four years in the league, but he flashed as a pass catcher as a rookie in Denver and with the Dolphins last season. With Miami seemingly thin at wide receiver, Dulcich could be one of the Dolphins' top target-earners.

Dalton Schultz is a boring but productive tight end option. He had a career-high 82 catches for 777 yards and three touchdowns last season, finishing TE13 in PPR fantasy scoring and would have finished TE9 had he scored two more touchdowns. With promising second-year receiver Jayden Higgins out for the season with a torn ACL, Schultz should once again be a prominent part of the Houston passing game.

Terrance Ferguson is a potential upside play at tight end for the Rams. Despite only 11 catches last season, he averaged 21.0 yards per catch and 9.2 yards per target in 2025, with three of his catches going for touchdowns. Ferguson is physically gifted (6-foot-5, 252 pounds, 4.63 forty time, 39-inch vertical jump). Rams head coach Sean McVay is at the forefront of the NFL trend toward multiple-tight end sets, and there's buzz that Ferguson could effectively be the Rams' third receiver this season behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. This upside play could pay big dividends.

With Brock Bowers sidelined, Jalen Nailor is likely to see an increase in opportunities in the star tight end's absence.

With Brock Bowers sidelined, Tre Tucker is likely to see an increase in opportunities in the star tight end's absence.

With Brock Bowers out for a few games and sidelined for Week 1, Michael Mayer will step into a bigger role. Last year he was utilized sparingly with a 44.4% route share, but when on the field he was productive: among 54 qualifying tight ends, he ranked tenth in target per route run rate (23%), 23rd in yards per route run (1.57), and 19th in first downs per route run (0.086). Mayer could easily flirt with TE1 production in Week 1 against a defense that allowed the ninth-most yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.

Brock Bowers underwent a minor meniscus trim operation on Tuesday and is expected to miss 'a game or two' as a result. He got 'banged up' during training camp and the team made the decision to have him undergo the minor procedure. This is especially concerning given that he missed much of last year due to a nagging knee injury; the injury could linger if there are any setbacks in his recovery, making this an alarming situation that fantasy managers should monitor closely.

Washington's top running back is listed under limited participation due to a groin injury. The source indicates there doesn't seem to be a sense that he's in jeopardy of not playing; Washington is probably just easing him back in from missing time, with clarity expected over the next two days.

The 2026 second-round pick tight end missed some time late in training camp due to a hamstring injury and has returned to practice. However, he figures to be a healthy scratch on game day as the fourth tight end behind Dallas Goedert, Johnny Mundt, and E.J. Jenkins, limiting his fantasy relevance despite his draft capital.

McNichols is on injured reserve for Washington to begin the 2026 season, unavailable for Week 1 against Philadelphia.

Jenkins is listed as the third tight end for the Eagles behind Dallas Goedert and Johnny Mundt, ahead of Eli Stowers.

Mundt is listed as the second tight end for the Eagles behind Dallas Goedert, ahead of E.J. Jenkins and Eli Stowers.

Goedert is listed as the top tight end for the Eagles ahead of Johnny Mundt and E.J. Jenkins, with Eli Stowers (the 2026 second-round pick) likely to be a healthy scratch behind this trio.

Sinnott, a Washington tight end, is listed as full participation on Wednesday's injury report after dealing with an oblique injury, indicating he is healthy and ready for Week 1.

Mariota, Washington's quarterback, is listed as full participation on Wednesday's injury report after dealing with a knee injury, indicating he is healthy and ready for Week 1 against Philadelphia.

Croskey-Merritt, Washington's top running back, is listed as limited participation on Wednesday's injury report with a groin injury. There doesn't seem to be a sense that he's in jeopardy of not playing; Washington is probably just easing him back in from missing time.

Stowers missed time late in training camp due to a hamstring injury and is listed as limited participation on Wednesday's injury report. As the 2026 second-round pick, he might very well be a healthy scratch on game day anyway, sitting behind Dallas Goedert, Johnny Mundt, and E.J. Jenkins at tight end.

Fullback Kyle Juszczyk (finger) remained limited on the 49ers injury report.

Tight end George Kittle (Achilles) remained limited ahead of Thursday night's season opener; he tore his right Achilles in a Jan. 11 playoff game against the Eagles. His status sounds more uncertain than Bola's, and if he plays, he is likely on a snap count.

Week 1 fantasy football tight end tiers! -Why Injury Gods WHY -Michael Mayer TE10, but I still prefer Juwan Johnson this week -Best potential stashes -MORE! ✍️ <https://www.rotowire.com/football/article/week-1-fantasy-football-tight-end-rankings-and-tiers-michael-mayer-enters-top-10-133360>

Week 1 fantasy football tight end tiers! -Why Injury Gods WHY -Michael Mayer TE10, but I still prefer Juwan Johnson this week -Best potential stashes -MORE! ✍️ <https://www.rotowire.com/football/article/week-1-fantasy-football-tight-end-rankings-and-tiers-michael-mayer-enters-top-10-133360>

Rhamondre Stevenson is mentioned as part of Jason Logan's Patriots vs. Seahawks player props analysis, though specific details about his role or projection are not provided in the available content.

Sam Darnold is among the best quarterbacks in play-action execution. However, Jason Logan notes that if new Seahawks offensive coordinator Brian Fleury can't establish the run game—the Seahawks are thin in the backfield due to injuries and departures—the offense could become predictable and hurt the effectiveness of play-action calls.

AJ Barner is backed at 24% probability for an anytime touchdown and is expected to kick off a potential breakout campaign in Week 1. Jason Logan notes that new Seahawks OC Brian Fleury is a former tight end coach who will utilize a lot of 12 personnel, especially early as he gets his feet wet as a play caller. Barner is a capable pass catcher and is also utilized as a runner in goal-line situations via 'The Barnyard' (direct snap in 'tush push' fashion), giving him multiple scoring opportunities.

AJ Brown is backed at 35% probability for an anytime touchdown in his Patriots debut. Robert Criscola notes the Patriots will be eager to establish their new No. 1 target in Week 1. Brown's touchdown production dipped over his last two seasons in Philadelphia due to injuries and the Eagles' heavy run-first approach (58% red-zone rush rate in 2025, third in NFL). With New England likely to feature Brown more prominently in the red zone than he was in Philly, he presents a touchdown opportunity.

Hunter Henry is backed at 54% probability for 3+ receptions in Week 1. Jason Logan highlights that Henry was second in targets last season and is rated No. 4 by PFF versus zone coverage in 2025. Seattle's defense ran zone coverage at the second-highest rate in 2025 and allowed the fifth-most receptions to tight ends last year, a product of their pass rush forcing checkdowns. Henry is one of the best zone-busting tight ends in the NFL, making this a favorable matchup.

TreVeyon Henderson is unavailable for Week 1, removing what Thursday Wednesday Night Football Chris Vasile identifies as perhaps the Patriots' most dangerous explosive weapon heading into their matchup against Seattle.

Drake Maye's postseason stats were described as 'god-awful,' and Seattle's Cover 6 defensive scheme is specifically designed to disrupt his rhythm. The Patriots' Super Bowl run is viewed as unlikely to repeat, with Maye facing pressure packages from Mike Macdonald that have proven uncomfortable for him.

Adams and teammate Puka Nacua are cited as one of the top wide receiver duos in the league. Pickens disputes their ranking relative to the Cowboys' Lamb and Pickens, claiming the Cowboys duo is superior.

Nacua and teammate Davante Adams are cited as one of the top wide receiver duos in the league. Pickens disputes their ranking relative to the Cowboys' Lamb and Pickens, claiming the Cowboys duo is superior.

Higgins and teammate Ja'Marr Chase are cited as one of the top wide receiver duos in the league. Pickens disputes their ranking relative to the Cowboys' Lamb and Pickens, claiming the Cowboys duo is superior.

Chase and teammate Tee Higgins are cited as one of the top wide receiver duos in the league. Pickens disputes their ranking relative to the Cowboys' Lamb and Pickens, claiming the Cowboys duo is superior.

Williams and teammate Amon-Ra St. Brown combined for the most yards among NFL wide receiver duos last season, with only 12 more yards than the Cowboys' CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens (2,506 yards). Pickens disputes that Detroit's duo is superior, claiming the Cowboys pair is the best in the league.

St. Brown and teammate Jameson Williams combined for the most yards among NFL wide receiver duos last season, with only 12 more yards than the Cowboys' CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens (2,506 yards). Pickens disputes that Detroit's duo is superior, claiming the Cowboys pair is the best in the league.

Lamb combined with George Pickens for 168 catches, 2,506 yards and 12 touchdowns last season; only Detroit's Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams had more yards (by 12). Pickens believes Lamb and he form the best wide receiver duo in the league, better than the top duos in Detroit, Cincinnati, and Los Angeles.

Pickens asserts that he and CeeDee Lamb form the best wide receiver duo in the league, surpassing Detroit's Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams (who had only 12 more yards than the Cowboys pair last season), Cincinnati's Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and the Rams' Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Pickens stated: "Yeah, we definitely think we're the best. Now, for everybody's brains and mindsets, I don't know what they're going to say. For us, yeah, we're the best."

Receiver Cooper Kupp is active for Week 1 and expressed that despite the fanfare surrounding the Seahawks' Super Bowl championship banner drop and new ownership, the team will focus on executing their game plan against New England, saying 'For all the stuff going on outside of the game, we're going to be in the locker room getting ready to play a football game.'

Running back Velus Jones Jr. was elevated off the practice squad for Week 1 against New England, giving the Seahawks four running backs for the game. Jones is likely to play significantly on special teams in addition to his offensive role.

Rookie running back Jadarian Price, a first-round pick, is set to make his professional debut and will likely start in the Seahawks' backfield for Week 1 against New England. He was kept in bubble wrap during the preseason due to offensive backfield injuries, with his last game action coming in Notre Dame's regular-season finale in November when he had six carries for 15 yards and a TD plus three catches for 40 yards and a TD.

Tight end Nick Kallerup is inactive for Week 1 against New England, keeping him off the active roster for the season opener.

Quarterback Jalen Milroe is inactive for Week 1 and will serve as the emergency third quarterback for the Seahawks against New England, indicating he is not in the active two-quarterback rotation for the game.

Receiver Tory Horton is inactive for Week 1 after being listed as questionable with a hamstring injury, keeping him sidelined for the season opener against New England.

Patriots wide receiver Cooper Kupp made a notable catch highlighted as one of the few bright spots for the Seahawks' defense in the game.

Seahawks third-string QB Jalen Milroe is the emergency backup and can play only if the team deems that Drew Lock can no longer play.

Patriots tight end Eli Raridon caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Drake Maye on the opening drive of the season, scoring on a play that followed a flea-flicker and a 34-yard pass interference penalty against Josh Jobe on A.J. Brown.

Patriots QB Drake Maye played much better than in the Super Bowl, completing 10 of 12 passes for 66 yards and running five times for 36 yards; he showed improved preparation against blitzes, throwing behind a Witherspoon blitz for a 14-yard gain on third-and-three, evidence the Pats had spent time preparing for those looks.

Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown limped off early in the third quarter with an apparent right ankle/foot injury after his ankle was landed on by Nehemiah Pritchett while breaking up a pass; Brown was listed as questionable to return after recording three catches for 26 yards in his New England debut, though he did draw a pass interference penalty on Josh Jobe that led to a Patriots touchdown.

Rookie first-round pick Jadarian Price displayed promising early-season performance with 42 yards on six carries in the first half, showing the vision and burst the team hoped for when drafting him; he may be asked to carry a heavier workload with Darnold sidelined.

After winning AP Offensive Player of the Year with 119 catches for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, Smith-Njigba's encore is uncertain under new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury; previous coordinator Klint Kubiak had schemed him open consistently, and Fleury's play-calling style and ability to replicate that production remain key questions heading into the season.

Lock was thrust into action after Darnold's injury, taking over for the last four drives of the first half; he completed 6 of 8 passes for 51 yards with the offense looking disjointed, having thrown only three passes last season with the Giants and facing his first non-mopup duty since late 2024.

Seahawks starting QB suffered a hip injury when sacked by Dre'Mont Jones on the opening drive of the season and was ruled out for the remainder of the game; this injury came after Darnold had quieted doubters with strong play last season, making his early-season absence potentially debilitating to the team's repeat championship hopes.

Wide receiver Cooper Kupp made a notable catch for the Seahawks but was partly responsible for an illegal shift penalty that negated his touchdown reception. The source notes this penalty was one of three that significantly changed the trajectory of the game.

Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown, acquired in an offseason trade from the Eagles, limped off early in the third quarter after a pass intended for him was broken up by the Seahawks and was ruled out for the rest of the game. Brown finished his first game in a New England uniform with three catches for 26 yards on four targets.

Drew Lock stepped in as backup quarterback after Sam Darnold's injury on the fifth play of the season and led a rally from a 10-0 deficit to secure a 13-10 win over the Patriots. Lock found Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a 45-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter and managed the offense effectively in the second half despite the Seahawks' sloppy overall performance.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the Seahawks offense in the comeback win, recording seven catches for 111 receiving yards and a touchdown; no other Seahawk had more than 24 receiving yards. He scored on a 45-yard touchdown reception from Drew Lock in the fourth quarter when the Seahawks were trailing 10-3.

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold was injured on the opening drive (fifth play of the season) when sacked by Dre'Mont Jones on third down and limped to the locker room with a hip injury. Coach Mike Macdonald said tests revealed Darnold does not have a fracture in his injured right hip, which is 'great news,' suggesting he may not be out long.

Mongo Peanut predicts the Los Angeles Rams will defeat the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LXI, framing it as a rematch of the 2023 Super Bowl where the Rams prevail again over Burrow; the source emphasizes the Rams' offseason additions of three elite defenders as the reason for their dominance.

Erik Duerrwaechter's Super Bowl LXI prediction favors the Chicago Bears over the Denver Broncos, with the deciding factor being that he trusts Caleb Williams in big moments more than Bo Nix; this positions Nix as the less reliable quarterback in high-pressure playoff scenarios.

Erik Duerrwaechter picks the Chicago Bears to win Super Bowl LXI over the Denver Broncos, citing trust in Caleb Williams' performance in big moments as the deciding factor over Bo Nix; Williams is positioned as the more reliable quarterback in high-pressure playoff scenarios.

The source projects Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos to lose to the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl LXI. An the source explicitly compares Nix unfavorably to Caleb Williams in clutch moments, stating 'I trust Caleb Williams in big moments more than Bo Nix. That will be the deciding factor' in picking the Bears over the Broncos.

The source projects Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals to lose to the Los Angeles Rams in Super Bowl LXI. One the source predicts 'Rams over the Bengals. In a rematch of the 2023 SB, the Rams have their way again with Burrow,' suggesting the Bengals will fall short in a championship rematch despite being mentioned as a contender.

The source projects Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears to win Super Bowl LXI. One the source explicitly states 'I trust Caleb Williams in big moments more than Bo Nix. That will be the deciding factor' in picking the Bears over the Denver Broncos, positioning Williams as a clutch performer in championship moments. Another the source simply predicts 'BearszzzzSuperfans' and the Bears as NFC Champion, with the source also predicting the Bears to win the Super Bowl.

The source projects Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams to win Super Bowl LXI. Multiple analysts cite the Rams' offseason moves and defensive additions as reasons for championship contention; one the source specifically notes 'with how competitive the NFL is, the moves they've made to improve an already great team are enough reason' to pick them, while another states 'I just have a hard time imagining a reality where one of the best teams in the league adds three elite defenders and doesn't win it all.' Stafford is positioned as a key leader of a championship-caliber roster.

Eagles WR DeVonta Smith is not listed on the Week 1 injury report.

Wide receiver Brenen Thompson is listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report with a hip injury. The source notes that Thompson brings real, elite speed to the offense, making his health status one to monitor heading into Week 1.

Running back Keaton Mitchell is listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report with a hamstring injury. He missed six consecutive practices but recently returned to the field this week; his health will be one to watch heading into the Week 1 matchup against Arizona.

Wide receiver Brenen Thompson was a limited participant in Week 1 injury report with a hip injury; he brings elite speed to the Chargers offense, making his health status a key watch item heading into the season opener against Arizona.

Running back Keaton Mitchell was a limited participant in Week 1 injury report with a hamstring injury; he missed six consecutive practices but recently returned to the field this week, with his health being a key watch item heading into the season opener.

DeVonta Smith (hamstring) not listed on injury report for Week 1.

Packers starting tight end on PUP list with neck injury; will miss first four games of the season.

Packers starting running back on Commissioner's Exempt list following an offseason incident; unavailable until further notice.

Josh Jacobs is on the Commissioner's Exempt list following an offseason incident and will be unavailable until further notice.

Luke Musgrave is on the PUP list and will miss the first four games of the season due to a neck injury.

TreVeyon Henderson is cited as an example of a player in a rough spot due to injuries, for whom upside streaming and waiver-wire pickups become relevant considerations.

Kenny Gainwell could be more involved in the Buccaneers' offense in Week 1 against the Bengals, a game that figures to be high-scoring and features Cincinnati's defense allowing running backs 11.6 fantasy points per game on passing plays alone in 2025, the most in the league.

Dallas Goedert is the featured tight end from the source's Week 1 Matchup Rankings, which provides mid-to-lower tier matchup opportunities weekly for streaming purposes.

Kyler Murray benefits from a favorable Week 1 matchup against the Packers' defense, which is missing Micah Parsons and afforded opposing quarterbacks an average of 18.1 fantasy points across four 2025-ending games Parsons missed.

Roschon Johnson warrants tracking through Friday of Week 1 as injury questions surround the starters ahead of him on the depth chart, making him a potential late-week waiver pickup for streaming purposes.

Mike Washington Jr. warrants tracking through Friday of Week 1 as injury questions surround the starters ahead of him on the depth chart, making him a potential late-week waiver pickup for streaming purposes.

Tyler Allgeier is available in nearly 60% of ESPN leagues and averaged a 17th-round ADP over the past week, positioning him as a plug-and-play waiver option if Jeremiyah Love's ankle injury sidelines the starter ahead of him on the depth chart.

Jeremiyah Love's ankle status heading into Week 1 warrants late-week monitoring after the Friday 4 p.m. ET injury report deadline, as his potential absence could open a plug-and-play opportunity for Tyler Allgeier.

Sounds like 2 games is the *best-case scenario* for Bowers. [Quoted](

John Harbaugh says we'll see on Sunday if Malik Nabers plays vs. Cowboys. But Harbaugh says "I think he's ready to go." Nabers practiced fully in Wednesday. Giants will see how he feels though as the week progresses and then make a final decision. [Retweeted](

Some Jeremiyah Love at #AZCardinals practice. I’m sure it’ll be the only video of him on the timeline. Didn’t see Josh Sweat out there. [Retweeted](

Brock Bowers INJURED! Is Michael Mayer a MUST-ADD? | 2026 Fantasy Football Advice <https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1aKbdERZjraJX> [Retweeted](

Brock Bowers INJURED! Is Michael Mayer a MUST-ADD? | 2026 Fantasy Football Advice <https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1aKbdERZjraJX> [Retweeted](

Drew Lock entered the game as the backup quarterback for the Patriots, replacing Sam Darnold after the opening drive in Week 1 against Seattle.

Drake Maye led the Patriots to a 10-win improvement from 4-13 to 14-3 last season, tying an NFL record and delivering New England's first AFC East title since 2019 in his second year as quarterback.

Sam Darnold is questionable with a hip injury and was replaced by Drew Lock after the opening drive in the Patriots' Week 1 season opener against Seattle.

Named team captain for the sixth time; one of the longest-tenured Broncos on the roster (outside of Bolles); provides veteran leadership on and off the field.

Named a team captain for the third consecutive season; described as the Broncos franchise quarterback who has earned the respect of players through passion and intensity both on and off the field; a true leader and franchise quarterback.

Courtland Sutton is one of the longest tenured Broncos on the team (outside of Garett Bolles) and provides veteran leadership on and off the field. This is the 6th time Sutton has been named a captain by the Broncos players, underscoring his sustained leadership value.

Bo Nix is the Broncos franchise quarterback and has been named a team captain all three seasons of his career, demonstrating he has earned the respect of the players. The source notes his passion and intensity on the field is matched off the field, establishing him as a true leader and true franchise quarterback.

Frank Gore Jr. is positioned to be elevated to the Bills' third running back role if Ty Johnson cannot play in Week 1 against Houston. This elevation mirrors the move Buffalo made in their wild-card playoff win over Jacksonville last January, suggesting Gore Jr. has earned trust in the organization's depth rotation.

Ty Johnson is not practicing with a hamstring injury heading into Week 1 against Houston. If Johnson cannot play, Frank Gore Jr. is likely to be elevated to the Bills' third running back role, a move the team executed in their wild-card playoff win over Jacksonville last January.

Bills third RB candidate who is likely to be elevated if Ty Johnson cannot play; Gore Jr. filled this exact role in Buffalo's wild-card playoff win over Jacksonville last January.

Bills RB not practicing Wednesday due to hamstring injury; if unable to play, Frank Gore Jr. is likely to be elevated as the third running back, a role Johnson filled in Buffalo's wild-card playoff win over Jacksonville.

#Raiders TE Brock Bowers (knee) did not participate in practice Wednesday while RB Ashton Jeanty (ankle) was a FULL participant. [Retweeted](

#Raiders TE Brock Bowers (knee) did not participate in practice Wednesday while RB Ashton Jeanty (ankle) was a FULL participant. [Retweeted](

TE George Kittle was limited in practice again today. The 49ers play tomorrow.

Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is 14-3 SU and 10-7 ATS against the Giants in his career, with 31 touchdown passes and nine interceptions.

The Bills have delivered big-time profits as a short favorite in recent years; since 2022, they are 11-2 SU and 10-2-1 ATS when laying three points or fewer, including 8-1 SU and 7-1-1 ATS on the road.

Cincinnati's offense has averaged just 15.7 points in season openers despite quarterback Joe Burrow starting the last six of them; the under is 6-1 in Bengals season openers since 2019, with the last four in a row staying low.

Mac Jones led the 49ers to a 26-23 overtime victory in Los Angeles as a 7.5-point underdog in the initial clash between these NFC West rivals last season, marking the fourth straight time in this rivalry that the underdog scored an outright upset and the fifth consecutive time the underdog covered the spread.

I would be willing to take Bowers in drafts in the 4th/5th - not before Loveland [Quoted](

Brock Bowers injury segment from today’s show with @​Nate_Tice. We react to the news that broke 5 minutes before we went live, what the Raiders do without him and some TE options desperate, broken fantasy players can consider. What a day. <https://youtu.be/3RqiTbN8VS0>

Running back Damon Bankston was added to the Packers' practice squad, serving as a second running back option. Bankston was previously a pre-draft visitor with Green Bay before signing as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants.

Running back Pierre Strong Jr. was seen working with the rehab group in practice, indicating he is recovering from an injury. This rehab status may explain why the Packers added a second practice squad running back, Damon Bankston.

Running back Damon Bankston was added to the Packers practice squad; he was previously a pre-draft visitor with Green Bay before signing on as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants; his addition appears to be related to Pierre Strong Jr.'s rehab status.

Running back Pierre Strong Jr. was seen working with the rehab group in practice, indicating he is dealing with an injury that is affecting his availability; this rehab status likely explains why the Packers added a second practice squad running back.

LaFleur on Jeremiyah Love: “He’ll be ready to roll today and we’ll take it one day at a time.” And on whether he’ll be a full participant: “I don’t exactly know what his listing is but yeah there’s no limit on our end.” [Retweeted](

Coach Retzlaff expresses hope that Baker Mayfield will play with a 'chip and an edge' following his contract extension.

Coach Retzlaff notes that it remains to be seen what role Jeremiah Love will play for the Cardinals.

Coach Retzlaff expresses skepticism regarding Deshaun Watson and the Browns' quarterback situation, suggesting it will be a difficult environment for fantasy production.

LaQuint Allen is listed as one of the kickoff returners for the Jaguars.

Parker Washington is identified as the punt returner for the Jaguars, providing potential for touchdown points.

Sam Darnold is highlighted as a high-confidence PrizePicks target for Week 1, needing only one yard against New England to cash his pick.

Coach Retzlaff is consistently betting 'more' on Chris Godwin's receptions and receiving yards, citing him as a preferred target.

No Tucker Kraft [Quoted](

With Bowers out in a soft matchup against Miami, Michael Mayer is a borderline TE1 this weekend. Moved the Raiders pass-catchers up, Tre Tucker feels like a relatively solid flex and Nailor startable in deeper leagues. For Jeanty, this should be a theoretical increase to his pass-catching upside, but I do worry about offensive efficiency/TD opps in a Bowers-less offense. That environment issue doesn't bother me in Week 1 against a bad Miami defense, but would have some concern if this injury...

With Bowers out in a soft matchup against Miami, Michael Mayer is a borderline TE1 this weekend. Moved the Raiders pass-catchers up, Tre Tucker feels like a relatively solid flex and Nailor startable in deeper leagues. For Jeanty, this should be a theoretical increase to his pass-catching upside, but I do worry about offensive efficiency/TD opps in a Bowers-less offense. That environment issue doesn't bother me in Week 1 against a bad Miami defense, but would have some concern if this injury...

With Bowers out in a soft matchup against Miami, Michael Mayer is a borderline TE1 this weekend. Moved the Raiders pass-catchers up, Tre Tucker feels like a relatively solid flex and Nailor startable in deeper leagues. For Jeanty, this should be a theoretical increase to his pass-catching upside, but I do worry about offensive efficiency/TD opps in a Bowers-less offense. That environment issue doesn't bother me in Week 1 against a bad Miami defense, but would have some concern if this injury...

#Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty catching passes from Kirk Cousins. [Retweeted](

#Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty catching passes from Kirk Cousins. [Retweeted](

QB Marcus Mariota missed most of training camp and two preseason games due to an MCL sprain and remains listed on the injury report heading into the season opener.

TE Ben Sinnott has been dealing with an oblique injury that originated in training camp and remains listed on the injury report.

Cooper Rush will serve as QB2 for the Falcons in Week 1 with Michael Penix Jr. inactive and Tua Tagovailoa named the starter.

If Jonathan Brooks is absent or limited with his groin issue, Chuba Hubbard would see more opportunities in Week 1.

Mahomes is expected to practice and play in Week 1; head coach Andy Reid said 'there's a good chance' he plays after it has looked likely for a while.

Penix is out for Week 1 and will be inactive while recovering from a knee injury; Tua Tagovailoa has been named the starter with Cooper Rush as QB2.

Love suffered a high ankle sprain early in the preseason but Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur feels good about his chances of playing in Week 1, saying he's 'progressing well.'

Jeanty has been managing an ankle problem since Aug. 23 but is expected to practice on Wednesday, putting him on track to play in Week 1.

Odunze suffered a leg injury last week and has not practiced since, leaving his Week 1 status uncertain.

Kittle is practicing in a limited capacity and trending toward making his return from an Achilles injury in Week 1.

With TreVeyon Henderson out with an ankle injury and Nick Emmanwori potentially absent with a hamstring issue, Stevenson is set to get more work in Week 1.

Henderson is out for Week 1 with an ankle injury and did not practice all week; he could also be uncertain for Week 2, with Rhamondre Stevenson set to get more work.

Brooks is practicing in a limited capacity while managing a groin issue; he appears likely to play in Week 1, but his status is worth monitoring. An absence or limitation could lead to more opportunities for Chuba Hubbard.

Nabers, who had his season cut short last year by a knee injury, practiced in full on Wednesday and is expected to play in Week 1; Giants head coach John Harbaugh said 'I think he's ready to go.'

Higgins has been managing a heel issue but is trending toward playing in Week 1.

Chase suffered what initially appeared to be a devastating knee injury toward the end of training camp but has recovered well; he is expected to practice and play in Week 1 after practicing earlier in the week.

Jeanty's ankle injury sustained during camp was not serious enough to land him on injured reserve, meaning he is available for the 2026 season opener.

Bowers is expected to be the focal point of Klint Kubiak's offense as the third-year tight end. He has been Kirk Cousins' go-to target throughout training camp, and given the Raiders' receiving corps leaves something to be desired, expect him to be targeted often. Even if he doesn't surpass Witten's record in Week 1, the 23-year-old (birthday Dec. 13) should be able to do it by the end of the month barring injury.

Bowers can surpass Jason Witten's record of 188 receptions for the most receptions by a tight end under age 24 in NFL history. He needs only 13 catches to reach this milestone, and it wouldn't be surprising if he did it in the season opener against the Dolphins. Bowers has recorded at least 10 receptions in a game on five occasions, most recently in Week 9 of 2025 against the Jaguars (12 catches), and had 13 catches against the Dolphins in Week 11 of 2024. He has been Kirk Cousins' go-to target throughout training camp, so expect the third-year tight end to be targeted often in Week 1.

Mendoza is the No. 1 overall pick and will eventually supplant Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' starter. It's safe to assume Mendoza will see the field before long, though Cousins could delay the passing of the torch by producing quickly. The Cousins-Mendoza chatter will be a talking point every week until the switch happens, especially if the team is losing games. If the Raiders are 1-3 or worse after the opening month, the question becomes whether head coach Klint Kubiak will want a look at the future of the franchise sooner.

The past two seasons did not go great for Cousins after leaving Minnesota, and this is probably his last shot as a starter. His role is fundamentally about how long he can hold off a switch to No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza. If the Raiders are 1-3 or worse after the opening month, the question becomes whether head coach Klint Kubiak will want a look at the future of the franchise sooner, despite supposed discipline in letting Mendoza learn from the sideline.

Cousins will begin 2026 as the Raiders' starter and is buying the franchise credibility in NFL Power Rankings despite being 38 years old. He played in new head coach Klint Kubiak's system during his 2021 time with the Minnesota Vikings and should be solid behind a revamped offensive line featuring three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum. In preseason, all three drives Cousins led ended in points (one touchdown, two field goals), demonstrating the offense functioned more smoothly and efficiently with him behind center compared to alternatives.

Third-year tight end Brock Bowers needs only 13 catches to surpass Jason Witten's record of 188 receptions by a tight end under the age of 24 in NFL history. ESPN's Ryan McFadden projects Bowers could reach this milestone in the season opener against the Dolphins, noting Bowers has recorded at least 10 receptions in a game on five occasions, most recently 12 catches in Week 9 of 2025 against the Jaguars and 13 catches against the Dolphins in Week 11 of 2024. Bowers has been QB Kirk Cousins' go-to target throughout training camp, so expect the third-year tight end to be targeted often in Week 1. He should be the focal point of Kubiak's offense, especially since the Raiders' receiving corps leaves something to be desired.

Running back's ankle injury sustained during training camp was not serious enough to warrant placement on injured reserve, providing good news for the Raiders heading into the 2026 season. His availability status is confirmed for Week 1 and beyond.

No. 1 overall pick expected to eventually replace Kirk Cousins as the Raiders' starter. The central narrative tension for Las Vegas is how long Cousins can hold off the switch to Mendoza. NFL.com's Nick Shook notes that Cousins could delay the passing of the torch by producing quickly, but Mendoza will likely see the field before long. The Ringer's Diante Lee raises the question of whether the Raiders' supposed discipline in letting Mendoza learn from the sideline will hold if the team starts 1-3 or worse after the opening month, or if head coach Klint Kubiak will want a look at the future of the franchise sooner.

38-year-old starting quarterback for the Raiders in 2026 under new head coach Klint Kubiak. Cousins played in Kubiak's system with the Minnesota Vikings in 2021 and should be solid behind a revamped offensive line featuring three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum. In preseason, all three drives Cousins led ended in points (one touchdown, two field goals), demonstrating the offense functioned more smoothly and efficiently with him at center. His presence buys the Raiders credibility in NFL Power Rankings heading into the campaign, though he is widely understood to be a placeholder for No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.

Insane news to get on NFL opening day... Meniscus trims are typically 4-6 week injuries so not necessarily buying Bowers just misses "a game or two". We've docked Bowers 4 games in projections and have pushed updated ranks to @​EstablishTheRun for anyone with drafts still left.

Packers TE Tucker Kraft is not listed on the injury report.

Tucker Kraft (knee) not listed on injury report for Week 1.

The best part about this Raiders injury news is that people will still CHOOSE to believe the injury updates on Ashton Jeantys ankle. Could he be fine? Sure. But man, I’d have a VERY DIFFICULT time trusting that he won’t be on limited snaps or playing at less than 100%‼️👀 [Retweeted](

Brock Bowers is injured and now the financial future of my family is looking ROUGH <https://www.youtube.com/live/grWdmawEyXc?si=0iYvi7ahE2ZOLmLL>

Teams do lie about injuries, yes. But objectively: meniscus injury only recently diagnosed and decided surgery was needed yesterday (!!) If Brock Bowers was dealing with this in mid-August & it was found, he could’ve had surgery ~8/21 ➡️ been active by Week 1. What happened?

Watson views the 2026 season as his opportunity to prove he can still play in the league at year 10 of his career. He stated: "Me being in my last year of my deal, and being year 10, I feel like this is my opportunity to get up there and go and showcase that I can still play in this league. And I want to continue to play in this league." His focus is on controlling the moments and opportunities available to him now.

Watson will start for the Browns in the season opener Sunday, but nothing is promised to him beyond that game. His fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million contract expires after this season, making this a prove-it year where he must demonstrate he can still perform at an elite level.

Watson has not played since Oct. 7, 2024, when he initially tore his right Achilles; he missed all of 2025 after tearing his right Achilles a second time and requiring another surgery in January 2025. He has played only 19 games over the past five seasons because of suspension and injury.

Khalil Shakir (undisclosed), Keon Coleman (foot/toe) not listed on injury report for Week 1.

Khalil Shakir (undisclosed), Keon Coleman (foot/toe) not listed on injury report for Week 1.

With Brock Bowers set to miss time, @​Ihartitz is leaning towards Juwan Johnson as his replacement. [Retweeted](

Boerkircher is a second-round rookie for the Jacksonville Jaguars who could potentially eat into Brenton Strange's target share, though the source suggests this is not expected to be a major concern for Strange's streaming value.

McBride was viewed alongside Brock Bowers to be in a tier of their own among tight ends heading into the 2026 draft, with both expected to be among the highest-drafted at the position.

Mayer is expected to step into the target void left by Bowers' injury. He succeeded in that role last year, averaging 4.5 catches and 49 receiving yards in the four games he played while Bowers was out. The Raiders have a favorable Week 1 matchup with the Dolphins, positioning Mayer as a solid, plug-and-play option against a weak-looking defense to open the season.

Otton's 9.7 career yards per reception average and 11 total touchdowns across 63 games over four seasons may not be overly enticing on their own, but his Week 1 matchup against Cincinnati is highly favorable. The Bengals allowed by far the most FPPG to tight ends last year with 116 catches, 1,444 yards and 16 touchdowns, making Otton a sneaky-good start despite modest career production.

Ferguson was a second-round pick by the Rams in 2025 but made only 11 catches in a crowded tight end room. However, three of those grabs went for touchdowns while he averaged 21 yards per reception, inspiring hope for breakout potential with more opportunities in 2026. Sean McVay has spoken glowingly of Ferguson this offseason, making him a worthwhile flier on upside for fantasy managers.

Strange has improved his numbers season-to-season over his first three years in the NFL. Last year he averaged 3.8 catches and 45 receiving yards per game while showing good chemistry with Trevor Lawrence. The main concern is his touchdown ceiling—just six across his first three seasons—but as long as second-round rookie Nate Boerkircher doesn't eat into his targets significantly, Strange has as good a floor as any streaming option.

Schultz earned a career-high 106 targets last season and converted them into 82 catches, 777 yards and three touchdowns. He has garnered at least 85 targets in each of the last six seasons and should continue to get plenty of opportunities in a Houston offense still seeking a true No. 2 receiver. However, his Week 1 matchup against Buffalo—which allowed the fewest FPPG to tight ends last season—presents a challenge, though Sean McDermott's departure from Buffalo may open the door for stronger performance.

The 23-year-old Las Vegas Raiders tight end is expected to miss a game or two with a meniscus trim. Bowers was plagued by knee problems throughout the 2025 season, limited to 12 games (eight starts) due to a PCL injury and bone bruise in his left knee. Despite being one of the highest-drafted tight ends in 2026 formats and viewed as a tier-one prospect alongside Trey McBride, his injury creates immediate streaming needs for fantasy managers.

Saints TE Oscar Delp (hamstring) did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to hamstring injury; status remains uncertain heading into Week 1.

Saints RB Audric Estime (thigh) did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to thigh injury; status remains uncertain ahead of Week 1 against Detroit.

Saints RB Alvin Kamara (knee) returned to practice with limited participation ahead of Week 1 against Detroit; knee injury status remains monitored as Saints prepare for regular-season opener.

Audric Estime did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to a thigh injury, raising concerns about his readiness for the Saints' Week 1 matchup against the Lions.

Oscar Delp did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to a hamstring injury, creating uncertainty around his availability for the Saints' Week 1 opener against Detroit.

Alvin Kamara returned to limited participation in Wednesday's practice ahead of Week 1 against Detroit, indicating recovery progress from a knee injury sustained during the preseason.

Panthers RB listed as limited in Week 1 injury report.

Listed as limited with new calf injury in Week 1; this is not the same foot injury he dealt with last year. The source clarifies misinformation circulated about the nature of his injury; the calf injury is something new.

Listed as DNP (did not practice) with back injury in Week 1; Bears did not practice on Wednesday, so participation is an estimation.

Panthers RB listed as limited on the Panthers' week 1 injury report.

Listed as DNP (did not practice) on the Bears' week 1 injury report with a back injury.

Listed as limited on the Bears' week 1 injury report with a calf injury; this is a new injury, not the same foot injury he dealt with last year, clarifying recent internet misinformation about the nature of his ailment.

Daniels faces a quality Eagles team in Week 1 on the road in Philadelphia. The source characterizes this as a hard-fought matchup against a team with really good players, marking the beginning of the season after an excellent summer for Daniels and the Commanders.

Daniels has proved adept at passing accuracy, anticipation, and scrambling/rushing ability in NFL games. Observers have lauded his ability to execute David Blough's new pro-style, under-center offense during training camp. Daniels describes his role on the Commanders as a point guard: getting the ball to playmakers in space and letting them do their thing, with a deep receiver corps and tight end room to distribute to.

Daniels enters Year 3 after a disappointing sophomore season where he missed 10 games and finished only four, a significant step down from his NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2024. The source notes that criticism has centered on availability rather than talent or performance, with pre-draft detractors questioning whether his frame and playing style can regularly withstand an NFL campaign. National season previews are questioning whether Daniels can be a top NFL quarterback, especially if Washington struggles to protect him.

Rachaad White did not play in the preseason, leaving uncertainty about the Commanders' running game heading into Week 1.

Daniels has proved adept at passing accuracy, anticipation, and scrambling/rushing ability in NFL games; national season previews question whether he can be a top NFL quarterback, especially if Washington struggles to protect him, but observers have lauded his talent and execution.

Daniels missed 10 games in Year 2 and finished only four, a disappointing sophomore season following his rookie-of-the-year campaign in 2024; criticism has centered on availability rather than talent or performance, with pre-draft detractors questioning whether his frame and playing style can regularly withstand NFL rigors.

Daniels has executed David Blough's new pro-style, under-center offense adeptly during training camp; he understands his role on the Commanders as a point guard distributing to playmakers in space, with a deep receiver corps and tight-end room supporting the scheme.

Third-string quarterback Joe Milton, who is on the practice squad, missed Wednesday's practice with an excused absence.