Sleeper Picks + Late Round Steals - Fantasy Football Podcast for 8/18

Breece Hall is dealing with a groin injury and is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks, according to Aaron Glenn.

JJ Zachariason mentions Caleb Douglas as another rookie wide receiver to monitor, but reiterates the general rule that late-round rookie wideouts typically do not provide immediate fantasy value and are better suited for waiver wire additions in the second half of the season.

Cyrus Allen is a deep sleeper wide receiver for the Chiefs who has become Patrick Mahomes' favorite target during the preseason. With injuries to other receivers like Xavier Worthy and Taequann Thornton, Allen has a clear path to targets. He is a versatile playmaker with high touchdown production in college and is climbing draft boards.

JJ Zachariason is high on Cyrus Allen as a late-round sleeper, noting he has been exclusively running with the first-team offense in preseason. While acknowledging the historical trend that day-three rookie wide receivers rarely see significant snap counts early in the season, Zachariason believes Allen could be an exception who earns 80%+ snaps in Week 1. He advises drafters to monitor his snap percentage closely and cut bait if he fails to see the field, but emphasizes that his route-running sharpness and rapport with Patrick Mahomes make him a compelling target.

Jonathan Brooks' ADP has risen significantly, moving from RB58 in early June to RB35, which JJ Zachariason and the hosts find inappropriate for a backup player who has yet to play and is coming off injury. While he has high upside in a run-heavy offense, he faces competition from Chuba Hubbard, making his current draft cost risky compared to other options.

Jordan Mason is a primary sleeper target for the Vikings, as the team shifts to a vertical wide zone scheme that fits his running style. Reports indicate he is in excellent shape, having lost 15 pounds to increase his explosiveness. He is expected to be a dominant goal-line back and a strong value pick compared to Aaron Jones in the same offense.

Jordan Tyson is dealing with a hamstring injury that will likely keep him out for the start of the season, with a two-month recovery timeline suggesting a potential stint on the PUP list. This injury significantly damages his fantasy ceiling and makes him a risky draft pick, despite his previous potential as a sleeper.

Josh Downs' fantasy outlook has dimmed following the Colts' signing of Keenan Allen. While Downs was previously viewed as a breakout candidate who could play outside in Michael Pittman's absence, Allen's arrival likely relegates him to a secondary role, making him a less attractive draft target than he was previously.

Josh Jacobs is recovering from a groin issue and has returned to practice, with Matt LaFleur confirming he is participating in stretching and drills.

Juwan Johnson is emerging as a viable late-round tight end option following positive training camp reports and a clearer path to targets in the Saints' offense. JJ Zachariason notes that while the team has top-tier wide receivers, Johnson's consistent playmaking makes him a name to watch for fantasy managers avoiding early-round tight ends.

Keenan Allen's signing with the Colts provides a veteran volume machine who is expected to be heavily involved immediately. While he is 32 and coming off a career-low yards-per-catch season, his presence creates a significant hurdle for Josh Downs' target share, as the team will likely prioritize Allen in the passing game.

Marshawn Lloyd is a high-upside sleeper who is currently healthy and clearly positioned as the backup to Josh Jacobs. While injury-prone, he represents a valuable insurance back who could see immediate work if Jacobs misses time due to injury or potential suspension, making him a viable late-round target.

The Giants signed Najee Harris to a one-year contract, a move that suggests the team has concerns about their current running back depth, specifically regarding Tyrone Tracy's pass protection and the health of other backs. While Harris is a strong pass protector, his arrival creates uncertainty for the backfield hierarchy.

Pat Bryant is a high-upside sleeper wide receiver for the Broncos, with deafening training camp buzz and strong endorsement from coach Sean Payton. Despite a slow start to his rookie year, he showed significant growth in the second half, averaging six targets per game from week 11 on. He is a strong dynasty target and a potential waiver wire priority if he overtakes Courtland Sutton in the target hierarchy.

Puka Nacua is currently dealing with soreness in his groin, as reported by Rams head coach Sean McVay.

JJ Zachariason notes that he and Jason had a heated, passionate debate on the previous show regarding the fantasy outlook for Rhamondre Stevenson, highlighting the intensity of their disagreement over his value.

Terrence Ferguson is a breakout candidate due to his explosive potential and increased role in the Rams' offense. Despite a crowded tight end room, he has shown full-time utilization in preseason and camp, and with the team needing a third pass-catching option, he could provide significant fantasy value if he secures a high snap share.