Terez Paylor: T.J. Hockenson likely to begin year as TE2

Aug 12, 2019

During his training camp visit with the Lions, Terez Paylor of Yahoo Sports is noting rookie tight end T.J. Hockenson will likely begin the season as the Lions' No. 2 tight end, behind Jesse James.

Fantasy Impact:

This isn't a huge surprise, as Hockenson is still learning and the Lions brought in Jesse James as a free agent this offseason from the Steelers. Paylor also said: "How quickly he ascends from there (No. 2 TE) will come down to how fast he understands defensive coverages (sight adjustments) and blocking schemes in the run game, but there's hope he can contribute this year and turn into a really fine player down the road once he fully fills out." Hockenson has reportedly been developing very well, and it wouldn't be surprising if he does elevate to the TE1 role at some point this season. He certainly has more upside than James and would be a better option in the passing game. Rookie tight ends are always tough to fully invest in for fantasy purposes, but if anyone can do it this year, it's Hockenson.

Apr 17

Chargers to sign RB J.K. Dobbins on one-year deal

Tom Pelissero

Apr 17 · 7:45 PM EDT

Former Ravens RB J.K. Dobbins is planning to sign with the #Chargers on a one-year deal. Electric when healthy, Dobbins — who averages 5.8 yards per carry in his career — reunites with OC Greg Roman and can hit the market again in March.

Related Players: Gus Edwards

Fantasy Impact:

Dobbins has had poor injury luck in his career, but has only managed 234 total rushes since being drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. This is a low-risk, high-reward move by the Chargers and might give them a runway to wait a little longer in the '24 Draft before they address the position.

Apr 16

Cowboys sign RB Royce Freeman

Todd Archer

Apr 16 · 8:15 PM EDT

The Cowboys have signed running back Royce Freeman to a one-year deal. Freeman had 319 yards on 77 carries with 2 touchdowns last year for the Los Angeles Rams. He was 3rd round pick of Denver in '18.

Related Players: Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn

Fantasy Impact:

Freeman hasn't rushed for 500 yards since 2018, his rookie season. This shouldn't have any impact on the team drafting at the position and/or bringing back Ezekiel Elliott.

Apr 15

Eagles sign WR DeVonta Smith to three-year extension

Ian Rapoport

Apr 15 · 10:45 AM EDT

The Eagles have paid another big-time, rising player. This time, WR DeVonta Smith gets a 3-year, $75M contract extension that includes $51M guaranteed.

Related Players: A.J. Brown, DeVante Parker, Parris Campbell

Fantasy Impact:

Great news for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles offense as a whole. Smith will continue his 1b role in which he finished the 2023 season as fantasy's WR22.