September 2020 4for4 Player News Articles

49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo still has not returned to practice due to his high-ankle sprain.

Garoppolo missed Week 3 with the injury and the 49ers still managed to stomp the Jets with Nick Mullens at quarterback. It certainly looks like Garoppolo will miss another week, which is not surprising given the nature of his injury. Mullens will fill in under center once again, and he has shown himself to be a serviceable in supporting fantasy production from the San Francisco skill players.

49ers star TE George Kittle returned to a full practice on Wednesday.

Kittle has sat out two games in a row after taking a nasty hit to his knee in Week 1. He apparently was close to playing last week, but the team decided to hold him out amidst concerns about the turf at Metlife Stadium. A full practice on Wednesday suggests Kittle should be ready to rock as an elite TE1 play in Week 4 vs. the lowly Giants.

Saints WR Michael Thomas returned to practice Wednesday as he recovers from high-ankle sprain.

High-ankle sprains are notoriously difficult to deal with for wide receivers and running backs, so this cannot be seen as a guarantee Thomas will suit up this weekend, but a Wednesday return to practice is very promising for his outlook. The Saints desperately need Thomas back to work the middle of the field as Drew Brees has lost significant arm strength in the late stages of his career. Even a limited Thomas is a must-start in all fantasy formats.

49ers starting RB Raheem Mostert is still not practicing as he recovers from a knee injury.

It looks like Mostert will miss another game, meaning the 49ers will roll out Jerick McKinnon and Jeff Wilson Jr. at running back with Tevin Coleman moved to injured reserve for the time being. McKinnon is the preferred pass catching option out the backfield while Wilson will likely handle early down and goal line work.

Bills rookie RB Zack Moss is practicing Wednesday.

Moss's return to practice puts him on track to suit up on Sunday against the Raiders. Devin Singletary handled a bellcow workload with Moss in the lineup, but that likely comes to an end this week with Moss returning. Moss should immediately resume goal line work with Singletary continuing to struggle in that area this past week. Both are flex options for fantasy purposes.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that Buccaneers expect WR Chris Godwin to miss two games with a pulled hamstring.

This news is not suprising in the wake of reports that Godwin pulled his hamstring during Week 3. He will sit out practice and hope to return for Week 6 against the Packers. Mike Evans should dominate targets in Tampa Bay for the time being and is a WR1 while Godwin is out.

Patriots RB James White returned to practice on Wednesday following the tragic car accident involving his parents.

It is good to see White back on the field in light of the tragic circumstances surrounding his recent absence. White was filling his traditional pass-catching role before missing time, so he should slot right back into that job for Week 4. The Patriots backfield is incredibly crowded all of a sudden with Damien Harris also returning to practice to join White, Sony Michel, and Rex Burkhead.

Patriots RB Damien Harris returned to practice Wednesday as he recovers from a hand injury suffered during training camp.

Harris's return further clouds an already messy New England backfield for fantasy purposes. Cam Newton gets plenty of rushing work in the team's new look offense, and Harris will compete with Sony Michel and Rex Burkhead for carries. Pass catching back James White (personal) also returned to practice today, signaling he should return soon to consume the receiving work out the backfield. All of the New England running backs make for inconsistent fantasy plays.

Jaguars RB Devine Ozigbo returned to practice Wednesday after suffering a hamstring injury late in training camp.

The news is notable as James Robinson has seized control of the Jacksonville backfield in recent weeks. If Ozigbo is healthy enough to play this weekend, it remains to be seen what kind of role he will have for the Jaguars. Ozigbo is an unproven commodity so Robinson shareholders shouldn't worry too much yet, but the addition of a new member to the backfield is always concerning in fantasy.

Jaguars WR D.J. Chark is returning to practice in a limited capacity Wednesday as he recovers from chest issue.

Chark sat out Week 3 and the Jacksonville passing offense looked woeful in his absence. Chark has not seen much volume in the two games he has played, but he has been very efficient in catching all of his targets, several for chunk gains. Chark is trending towards getting back on the field this weekend and will be startable in fantasy against a leaky Bengals defense.

Radiers rookie WR Henry Ruggs is considered a "longshot" to play Week 4.

Ruggs missed practice time last week and his hamstring issue continues to linger into Week 4. Fellow WR Bryan Edwards is also out for Sunday's game, meaning TE Darren Waller should see a heavy target share and WR Hunter Renfrow could see more volume than usual. We will update Ruggs's status as we learn more.

The NFL has postponed Sunday's Titans-Steelers game and the teams will likely play on either Monday or Tuesday.

The delay comes following four players on the Titans testing positive for COVID-19, and the league is exercising an abundance of caution in trying to get everyone involved in the game tested and contact traced to avoid further spread of the disease. For the time being, it sounds like Titans-Steelers will still be part of Week 4, just delayed by a day or two.

Steelers WR Diontae Johnson remains in concussion protocol, according to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Johnson would have to clear protocol and get in a limited practice of two over the next three days to play Sunday against the Titans (assuming the game is not postponed or cancelled). James Washington and Chase Claypool would vie for Ben Roethlisberger's attention if Johnson misses Week 4.

Troy Renck of Denver ABC 7 reports that RB Phillip Lindsay was limited Tuesday because of a toe injury. Renck also said the practice conducted was a walk-through ahead of Thursday night's road game against the New York Jets.

Lindsay missed Sunday's loss to Tampa Bay and was trending towards playing Thursday when he was listed as doubtful Friday. The Broncos could use their full complement of backs to alleviate the pressure new starting QB Brett Rypien will be facing in his first start. If he does suit up, Lindsay is more of a flex option than locked-in starter.

Jets WR Jamison Crowder told reporters on Tuesday that he believes he will play Thursday, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post. "[Crowder] Said he did some cutting today and ran routes," tweeted Costello. "He has missed last 2 games with hamstring injury."

Good news for a Jets offense void of receiving talent due to injury. A healthy Crowder will be peppered with targets by Sam Darnold. The Jets slot receiver would fall into WR3 territory after missing two games.

The Philadelphia Eagles have placed TE Dallas Goedert on Injured Reserve with a fractured ankle, according to the team's official Twitter account.

Goedert will miss at least three weeks, and his timeline for return extends well past the three-week minimum. Goedert's spot on the roster was filled with the signing of Hakeem Butler, who will transition to tight end.

The Philadelphia Eagles have signed wide receiver Hakeem Butler and intend to use him at tight end, according to the team's official tweet.

Why not? Butler gets a chance to play with TE Dallas Goedert heading to IR. The Eagles have thrived on offense with two productive tight ends, but this is a hands-off situation for the foreseeable future. Butler has done next-to-nothing as a pro.

James Palmer of the NFL Network reports that QB Brett Rypien will start for the Broncos Thursday night against the New York Jets.

Related player: Jeff Driskel

Do not start Brett Rypien Thursday night. The Broncos offense is riddled with injuries and no one stands out as must-play on a short week.

According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, the Titans-Steelers and Texans-Vikings games will be play as scheduled. "However, the NFL is evaluating the situation and will adjust if needed as more information is gathered," Pelissero tweeted. "Teams are still working through contact tracing data, etc."

Cautious optimism is the best phrase for this. That said, it is important to make contingency plans with your fantasy roster in the event the two games are pushed back or cancelled.

Bengals QB Joe Burrow has established chemistry with WR Tyler Boyd, according to Mitch Stacy of the Associated Press. Stacy also mentioned the developing chemistry between Burrow and rookie WR Tee Higgins and the slow start for WR A.J. Green.

Burrow has looked like a rookie QB at times, but the connection he has with Tyler Boyd is impossible to miss. The two connected for 10 catches on 13 targets in Week 3, and Boyd has 18 catches over the past two games. Boyd is the WR1 in Cincinnati and will continue to be peppered with targets.

Colts offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni said that the offense will keep featuring TE Mo Alie-Cox despite the return of Jack Doyle and Trey Burton on his way back. "He's made too many plays the last few weeks," Sirianni said.

Cox has balled out the last two weeks, but actions speak louder than words. It was easy to give Cox majority of the looks in Week 3 while Doyle could block and get back to game speed after missing one game, but getting three tight ends looks plus the plethora of other offensive options...near impossible. Cox's value is capped unless it clear he will be their primary pass-catching tight end.

49ers RB Jerick McKinnon is day-to-day with bruised ribs, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic.

Related players: Jeff Wilson Jr., JaMycal Hasty

The 49ers cannot catch a break on the injury front. McKinnon played well in his first extended action in over two years, but Jeff Wilson Jr. outproduced him. McKinnon would get a fair share of touches if he plays Sunday against the Eagles, but it would not be surprising to see him sit a week to keep his bruised ribs from getting worse. Jeff Wilson Jr. would get the heavy workload if McKinnon could not play.

49ers TE Jordan Reed will miss 6-8 weeks with a sprained MCL, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Head coach Kyle Shanahan said Reed was injured on a low hit during their win against the New York Giants. Reed was placed on Injured Reserve.

Related players: George Kittle, Ross Dwelley

Reed has never played a full 16-game schedule in his career. 2020 is no different. If George Kittle is sidelined again, Ross Dwelley will start at tight end for the 49ers.

The Tennessee Titans and Minnesota Vikings have closed their facilities due to Titans players and personnel testing positive for COVID-19, according to Albert Breer of the Monday Morning Quarterback and others.

Breer reported that the Titans are deep-cleaning their facility today and "there's no set criteria on re-opening, but NFL/Titans will allow infectious disease experts to guide that decision."

Positive tests were re-tested Tuesday morning and came back positive.

Minnesota reported no positive tests as of Tuesday morning.

This is troubling news on multiple fronts, but in terms of fantasy there is a realistic chance the Titans, Vikings, and their Week 4 opponents (Pittsburgh and Houston, respectively) are forced to move their bye week to this upcoming Sunday. This situation is very fluid and will also change waiver wire adds/drops. Make sure your claims are in if you have any player from those four teams.

The Bears are fearing they have lost RB Tarik Cohen to a torn ACL during Sunday's win against the Falcons.

Head coach Matt Nagy just about confirmed the news to the media after the game. "Unfortunately, it looks like Tarik Cohen, after we get confirmation, looks like he did end up tearing his ACL," Nagy said. "So that will be a big blow to us there with that, which is unfortunate. So proud of that kid, and he's been really growing." It's terrible for Cohen, who just signed a three-year, $17.25 million extension earlier this month. Cohen suffered the injury during a punt return. After a rash of ACL tears in Week 2, the stretch continued in Week 3. Really sad for a fun back like Cohen. David Montgomery will likely see more work as a result.

49ers WR Deebo Samuel (foot) is likely returning to practice this week but will be eased into coming off injured reserve.

Samuel is eligible to come off IR this week thanks to the short-term version this season. Rapoport says the likely return date for a game will be October 11 against the Dolphins, rather than next week against the Eagles. Samuel has been making progress and it should be exciting when he returns to the field fully healthy.

Bears QB Nick Foles came in to replace Mitch Trubisky in the second half of their game against the Falcons.

Trubisky went 13/21 for 128 yards, one touchdown and one interception in the field half but the inconsistency led to the QB switch. However, the Bears were only down 16-10 at the half. The timing is interesting but many felt before the season it was only a matter of time before the former Super Bowl MVP took over in Chicago.

Eagles TE Dallas Goedert suffered an ankle injury during Sunday’s game against the Bengals and has been ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Zach Ertz should now see plenty of targets. Goedert went down in the first quarter and limped off the field. The Eagles are already low on weapons as DeSean Jackson also got hurt during the game and Alshon Jeffery and Jalen Raegor are already out. This leaves Ertz and Richard Rodgers at TE and John Hightower, Greg Ward, J.J. Arcega-Whiteside and Deontay Burnett as the WRs.

Falcons WR Russell Gage (concussion) is out for the rest of Sunday’s game against the Bears.

Gage left the game early after recording two catches but will now likely enter the concussion protocol. Olamide Zaccheaus steps in and Calvin Ridley will now likely be force-fed the ball as he is already over 100 yards receiving for the day.

Steelers WR Diontae Johnson left Sunday’s game against the Texans and has been ruled out with a concussion.

Unfortunately, Johnson was held without a catch before leaving and now it will be a question of how long he needs to recover. James Washington now gets an opportunity opposite JuJu Smith-Schuster, who has already found the end zone today. Eric Ebron also has a touchdown and could see more work with Johnson out.

Falcons WR Russell Gage left Sunday’s game against the Bears with a concussion and his return is questionable.

Gage had two catches for 26 yards before leaving with the injury. With Julio Jones already our, the Falcons all of a sudden got thin at receiver. Olamide Zaccheaus is the next man up for Atlanta.

Giants RB Devonta Freeman is active for his first game with the team and is expected to have some role in the offense, despite not having the entire playbook this soon.

Freeman was just signed four days ago so it’s expected he won’t have everything under his belt but we should see a few carries just to get him going in the offense. Expect a healthy mix of Freeman, Dion Lewis and Wayne Gallman from the outset. Lewis has the edge in PPR formats.

Falcons WR Julio Jones (hamstring) has been declared inactive for Sunday against the Bears.

He was a true game-time decision and it seems the muscle just didn’t cooperate today. Calvin Ridley is now an extremely good option and Russell Gage becomes a viable flex option. This could also mean more looks for TE Hayden Hurst.

Chargers QB Tyrod Taylor is expected to miss the team’s Week 4 game against the Buccaneers as he continues to recover from cracked ribs and a punctured lung.

It will be another start for rookie Justin Herbert, who looked good in his debut against the Chiefs and is set to take on the Panthers in Week 3. The team has remained adamant that Taylor will be back once he is healthy, but this is going to take some time. The Chargers play on Monday night in Week 5 against the Saints. Their bye isn’t until Week 10.

Falcons WR Julio Jones (hamstring) will be a game-time decision for Sunday’s game against the Bears.

Schefter says a source tells him “it’s nip and tuck, it’s up in the air“. Jones did not practice all week. We’ll find out by 11:30 in the morning. This will at least give you time to make adjustments to your lineup if need be. Jones is currently our No. 21 WR in half-PPR. Calvin Ridley is now No. 3 and Russell Gage has moved into the top 40 WRs.

After a potential worry that the game would be moved due to COVID-19, the Week 3 game between the Falcons and Bears will be played as scheduled at 1:00 eastern Sunday.

The concern began after Falcons CB A.J. Terrell was placed on the reserve/Covid-19 list and will be the first player to miss a game as a result. Every player and personnel member for the Falcons tested negative, allowing the game to move forward. The big question now is the status of WR Julio Jones, who will be a game-time decision with a hamstring injury.

Rams RB Cam Akers is out Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, according to Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.

It is best for Akers to be fully healthy before coming back, especially if he wants to compete for touches with Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson. It is a disappointing start to Akers' rookie season to say the least.

Saints WR Michael Thomas is out Sunday, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network.

No surprise with Thomas being out. Emmanuel Sanders, Tre'Quan Smith, and Jared Cook will lead the Saints passing attack.

Jets WR Braxton Berrios is questionable to play Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers, according to Ralph Vacchiano of SNY.

Wayne Chrebet is going to have to suit up for the Jets at this point. Berrios managed double-digit targets starting last week. Even if he plays, he is not a starting-caliber player in fantasy.

Patriots WR N'Keal Harry is questionable to play against the Las Vegas Raiders Sunday, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.

Harry saw a healthy amount of targets in Sunday's shootout in Seattle. He needs to string together games to stay on the field even when he is not on the injury report. Harry would be a WR4 if he suits up Sunday.

Patriots WR Julian Edelman is questionable to play Sunday, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.

Edelman is coming off of a big game in which he took big hits. The veteran will more than likely sit out a lot of practices during the season to preserve him for game days. Expect Edelman to play Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Patriots RB James White will not play Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.

Raiders WR Henry Ruggs III is out Sunday against the New England Patriots, according to Paul Gutierrez of ESPN.

It appeared as if Ruggs was trending towards playing. Bryan Edwards, Hunter Renfrow, and Nelson Agholor will play in three wide receiver sets.

Saints head coach Sean Payton said WR Tre'Quan Smith will be a "big part of this plan."

Good news for Smith. Bad news more Michael Thomas? Smith has stepped up in Thomas' absence and appears to be in a similar role Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers.

The New England Patriots plan on scheming a specific plan for Raiders TE Darren Waller, according to Doug Kyed of NESN.com. “He’s good and we’ve got something for him this weekend,” Patriots cornerback JC Jackson said Friday.

Patriots CB Stephon Gilmore said Waller “knows how to get open” since he played wide receiver. “It’s maybe the way he runs his routes,” Gilmore said. “You know, it’s not, like, it’s not slow like — some receivers like more bigger guys. He’s more leaner, can come at his breaks, so that’s what he does well.”

Bill Belichick likes to limit the opponent's top talent. It is no surprise that Waller would be the target.

Broncos WR Jerry Jeudy is a game-time decision to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to James Palmer of NFL Network.

If Jeudy were to miss Sunday's game, the Broncos would trot out Tim Patrick and K.J. Hamler as their starters. Not good. Make sure you have a safe option for the Sunday late games if you plan to ride with Jeudy.

Raiders head coach Jon Gruden said that TE Darren Waller is questionable to play Sunday against the New England Patriots.

Waller was a baller for the Raiders Monday night, and seeing him miss practice and land as questionable is not a great way to end the week of practice. Waller has a tough matchup against the Patriots Sunday if he gets on the field.

Raiders head coach Jon Gruden said that RB Josh Jacobs is questionable for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.

Jacobs practiced Friday, but Gruden went ahead and determined he is still questionable after missing practice Thursday. Jacobs has been excellent in two games and is needed if the Raiders hope to win on a short week.

Cardinals WR Christian Kirk will miss Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions, according to Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com.

Related player: Andy Isabella

Kirk will miss an opportunity to pile up stats against a poor Lions secondary. Andy Isabella should start in three wide receiver sets in Kirk's place.

According to head coach Vic Fangio, RB Phillip Lindsay is doubtful for Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. Fangio did say that Lindsay is trending in the right direction for Thursday night's matchup against the New York Jets.

No point in pushing Lindsay to play Sunday if he can be closer to 100% for Thursday. Melvin Gordon will handle majority of carries against a tough Tampa Bay defense.

Texans WR Kenny Stills is questionable to play Sunday because of illness, according to Sarah Barshop of ESPN. The illness is not COVID-19 related.

Still has been an afterthought in the Texans passing game. Expect the same if he plays Sunday against the impressive Steelers defense.

Texans RB Duke Johnson is questionable to play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Sarah Barshop of ESPN.

Johnson has not played since hurting his ankle Week 1. His return would be welcomed, but his role would be undefined coming back from the injury.

Titans WR A.J. Brown has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, according to Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com.

Related players: Adam Humphries, Corey Davis

Brown continued to miss practice this week, and will miss his second consecutive game. Expect Corey Davis, Adam Humphries, and Jonnu Smith to dominate passing targets against a depleted Vikings secondary.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said that WR Davante Adams is "probably doubtful" for Sunday night against the Saints but "we'll give him the rest of the week to see where he's at," according to Rob Demovsky of ESPN.

Related players: Aaron Jones, Allen Lazard, Marquez Valdes-Scantling

Aaron Rodgers's favorite target may end up being Aaron Jones Sunday night. Rodgers also has Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling to help the Packers move down the field, but neither has the same level of trust from Rodgers as Adams. Jones' fantasy stock would rise if Adams does sit out, while Lazard and MVS can expect a fair uptick in targets.

Lions WR Kenny Golladay said he's going to try everything in his power to play Sunday against Arizona.

"Hopefully I'll show enough that I'll be out there."

Golladay has logged multiple practices this week, but there is a clear concern that the receiver still has at least one more hurdle to jump before making his season debut.

Jordan Raanan of ESPN expects Giants RB Dion Lewis to benefit the most Sunday against the 49ers.

"My expectation Sunday for Giants backfield is Wayne Gallman starts (run downs), Dion Lewis gets the most snaps (pass downs + more) while Devonta Freeman is sprinkled in with only 5 days to learn the playbook and get into playing shape," tweeted Raanan. "Consider me bullish on Lewis for fantasy."

Related players: Dion Lewis, Devonta Freeman

Raanan's opinion helps, but there is no guarantee that the snaps play out like this. Gallman was a healthy scratch last week, leaving Lewis with the entirety of the RB duties. Starting any of this trio has downside, but Lewis should see the most work against a battered 49ers defense.

Colts TE practiced in full today and is questionable to play Sunday against the New York Jets, according to Kevin Bowen of 1070 The Fan in Indianapolis.

Related player: Mo Alie-Cox

Doyle has missed one game, and that one game led to a breakout performance by Mo Alie-Cox. Doyle's return would lead to a muddled target share between the two, but QB Philip Rivers has built a career off of targeting the tight end position. It would be hard to start either player if both are active and expected to run routes.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan says Deebo Samuel “looks real good” running routes, and is optimistic he’ll be activated from IR next week, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic. He stopped short of saying Samuel will play vs. Eagles. That will be decided late next week.

Great news for the 49ers and those rostering Samuel. The goal has been for Samuel to be activated after three weeks, and that timetable clearly has not changed. Despite the carnage that is the San Fran injury report, next week could bring the return of Samuel, Jimmy Garoppolo, and George Kittle to the offense.

49ers TE George Kittle will not play Sunday, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Head coach Kyle Shanahan ruled him out after practice.

Related player: Jordan Reed

The 49ers will hope Jordan Reed can keep playing well in Kittle's stead. The much-maligned field conditions in New Jersey and the chance of Kittle causing more damage to his injured knee are plenty enough to let the elite tight end miss Week 3.

Bills WR John Brown thinks that he is good to go Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams, according to Matt Parrino of Syracuse.com.

Brown popped up on the injury report this week and continued to get limited work in leading into Friday. It appears a decision won't be made until Sunday's inactive deadline.

While talking with reporters, Bucs TE Rob Gronkowski said "I'm a blocking tight end." Says, kind of half-joking, that four targets in two games is four more than he thought he would get, according to Greg Auman of The Athletic.

Gronkowski added that his role can change week-to-week.

Gronk has been a zero in Tampa Bay's passing offense. Head coach Bruce Arians is not afraid to limit the tight end role in his passing offense, but a lot was put in to reuniting Gronkowski with new QB Tom Brady. It has only been two weeks, but Gronk is almost waiver wire fodder.

Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger said he was going to focus on building his connection with WR Diontae Johnson this week, according to Brooke Pryor of ESPN.

It reflected in practice, according to Johnson. "Mostly every play, the ball was coming my way. Had to make sure I was getting out of my breaks on time," said Johnson.

It has become a weekly occurrence to read or hear about Big Ben and Johnson working on building chemistry. Johnson continues to lead the Steelers in targets and target share as the offense looks to pair another consistent passing weapon JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr. has had to recalibrate his mindset of "killing this season" to accepting a run-oriented offensive role, according to Mark Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. "For me, one of my biggest growths has come in acceptance in a sense and for me knowing it’s probably not going to be that kind of season [with huge numbers],'' Beckham said on a video call Thursday.

"Like I always say, my goal is always going to be my goal, and I don’t feel like I’m ever going to fall short of it. Like I said, learning and acceptance, so you set new goals.''

This is great if looked at solely from a maturity aspect. Fantasy players would prefer OBJ put up fantasy points than block for his teammates, but hard work pays off in different ways. Expectations were already adjusted for him in fantasy, so hearing Beckham say the same is just further confirmation.

Cardinals WR Christian Kirk was not practicing Friday, according to Kyle Odegard of AZCardinals.com. Kirk also missed Wednesday and Thursday's practices.

The Cardinals' #2 wide receiver is in danger of missing a juicy matchup against the injury-riddled Detroit Lions defense. Hopefully a decision is made Friday on his availability.

In his Friday mailbag, Pat Perry of NBC Sports Boston was asked if Damien Harris would get an opportunity to play with the Patriots having issues running the ball:

"...don't tell anyone this," Perry wrote. "But I think you should go get Damien Harris in your fantasy league and stash him until he's back. He's eligible to return Week 4. Whenever he hits the field, it'd make sense for the Patriots to see what they have."

"Sony Michel hasn't given them anything a replacement back couldn't. There's a replacement on the roster who looked like more than that this summer. Harris caught the ball smoothly and hit holes decisively."

Damien Harris is eligible to return from IR in Week 4. The Patriots deploy a handful of running backs weekly, but if Harris can show out in his return, goal line and early-down carries could be his. In a season with many prominent offensive players getting hurt, Harris could be a solid bye week fill-in or RB2.

49ers TE George Kittle is a game-time decision, according to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area. Kittle is likely to be designated with a questionable tag according to head coach Kyle Shanahan.

Related player: Jordan Reed

The 49ers are already short what seems like every player on offense and defense, so a healthy Kittle would be a boon for starting QB Nick Mullens. If Kittle cannot play, Jordan Reed would start.

Patriots RB James White appears set to miss his second straight game after the passing of his father, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN. White has not been with the team all week.

As nice as it is to see White be an effective player in the Patriots offense, there is nothing to say about him missing another game as he grieves.

Falcons WR Julio Jones will be a game-time decision Sunday against the Bears, according to Vaughn McClure of ESPN. It had been reported that Jones further injured his hamstring during the team's Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

Jones continues to battle his hamstrings, as it appears he does every week. He also continues to play through the injuries, so him being a game-time decision is nothing new. The Falcons face a Bears secondary that has not allowed a wide receiver touchdown early in the NFL season. Be prepared to sit Jones or lower expectations.

Jets WR Breshad Perriman has been ruled out Sunday against the Colts, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN.

The Jets wide receiver corps takes another hit. Perriman has had a disastrous start to his Jets career as he misses another game.

Jets WR Jamison Crowder will not play Sunday against the Colts, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN.

Crowder had a doubtful tag on him this week, so it was expected that he miss Sunday's game. The Jets are terribly thin at wide receiver.

Eagles WR Alshon Jeffery has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Andrew Siciliano of the NFL Network.

Jeffery logged his first practice of the season this week. The Eagles need as many receiving options as possible, so seeing the veteran log any practice time is a good sign.

49ers RB Raheem Mostert has been ruled out Sunday against the New York Giants, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.

Mostert is expected to miss up to six weeks with a knee sprain.

49ers RB Tevin Coleman has been ruled out Sunday, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.

This was expected, as Coleman is projected to be out for up to one month.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said QB Nick Mullens will start Sunday against the New York Giants, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.

Related player: Jimmy Garoppolo

This is not a surprise since Jimmy G is dealing with a high ankle sprain. Mullens is a low-end QB2 on the road in New Jersey.

In his Bears-Falcons preview, Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic focused on Falcons WR Calvin Ridley's matchup against the Bears secondary. “Yeah, he’s a game wrecker,” defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano said. “He’s fast, he’s elusive, he’s a great route runner. He can set you up, all of the guys he’s been running, he’s turned around every corner he’s played so far. And you go back and watch him in ’19 I mean he’s just a phenomenal football player.

This game is predicted to produce a lot of offense, but one stat to remember: The Bears secondary has yet to give up a touchdown. That streak is bound to end, and Ridley is an excellent bet to end it. Ridley won't put up 100 yards and two TDs weekly, but expect him to lead the Falcons receivers for a third straight week.

During a zoom conference call Friday, Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said RB Duke Johnson is "trending in the right direction," according to Drew Dougherty of Houston Texans TV. O'Brien added the Texans "will have to wait and see how he does today, and how he looks 'when we get up there' to Pittsburgh."

The Texans need every healthy body on the field against a fierce Steelers defense. Johnson may not add much if he plays Sunday, but a trusted receiver and solid secondary runner add depth on offense. Johnson would be nothing more than a desperation flex option Sunday.

In his weekly Patriots mailbag column, Doug Kyed of NESN.com was asked who he thought would be Bill Belichick's focus on defense: RB Josh Jacobs or TE Darren Waller. "I would probably say tight end Darren Waller, though I could certainly understand if the Patriots stack the box and try to slow down running back Josh Jacobs," wrote Kyed.

"As for Waller, I think we’ll see a combination of cornerback/safety Joejuan Williams (with help) and cornerback Stephon Gilmore covering the big, speedy tight end. Kyle Dugger, Adrian Phillips and Terrence Brooks also could get some reps against Waller, but I think Williams and Gilmore are the best matchups for the Patriots."

It is no secret that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has no problem shutting down one player on the opponent's offense. After Waller's double-digit catch performance on Monday Night Football, it is clear who QB Derek Carr likes to target. This could be an issue for the Raiders offense that is relying on two rookie wide receivers and a 7th-round slot receiver.

Turron Davenport of ESPN documented how Titans QB Ryan Tannehill has spread the ball around in the passing game, leading to the team's early success in 2020. He focused on the chemistry built between Tannehill and TE Jonnu Smith, who have connected for three touchdowns this season.

"During the offseason, Tannehill and Smith met in South Beach for three throwing sessions per week," wrote Davenport. "Smith's three touchdowns have already matched his season total from last year."

Tannehill and Smith continue to impress off of last season's second half success. Tannehill will continue to be in the weekly QB1 conversation, and Smith is firmly entrenched as a weekly TE1.

Bills TE Dawson Knox will not play Sunday, according to Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com.

Related player: Jason Croom

Tight end has not been a focal point of the Bills offensive attack to begin the year, but QB Josh Allen trusts Knox. Jason Croom should see majority of the snaps for the Bills but is not a fantasy factor.

Bills RB Zack Moss has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams, according to Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com.

Related player: Devin Singletary

Moss is a big loss for a team that has had success running and passing the ball with their backs through two weeks. Devin Singletary will get majority of the carries Sunday.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Kenny Golladay logged his second consecutive limited practice session on Thursday.

Golladay appears on track to make his 2020 debut in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals. He will need to avoid any setbacks, but two limited sessions are always good news heading into Friday. We will officially learn his status upon the release of tomorrow's injury reports. While celebrating may be premature, it appears both the Lions and fantasy managers will have their star wide receiver back. Golladay is our 27th ranked receiver for Week 3.

Tennessee Titans tight end Jonnu Smith returned to a full practice on Thursday.

Jonnu raised some alarm bells by sitting out Wednesday's practice, but it appears that the Titans just chose to manage Smith's reps while he is dealing with an ankle issue. Smith was a star in Week 2 but will have a much tougher test against the Minnesota Vikings Eric Kendricks, arguably the best cover linebacker in the NFL. Jonnu is our ninth ranked tight end for Week 3.

Tennesee Titans wide receiver A.J. Brown missed Thursday's practice.

A.J. Brown is firmly trending towards missing his second consecutive contest. The Titans would be wise to play it safe with their prized sophomore, and will likely err on the side of caution as far as when he is cleared to return to the practice field. With Brown out Corey Davis, Jonnu Smith, and Adam Humphries all get slight value boosts. Jonnu was a star in Week 2 but has a tougher matchup on tap against one of the top coverage linebackers in the league in Eric Kendricks.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson was able to log a full practice session on Thursday.

Diontae Johnson missed Wednesday's practice with a toe injury, but it was always considered to be minor. Practicing in full on a Thursday is usually a good sign for a player's availability. Diontae can be trusted as a WR2 with sneaky WR1 upside in what projects as a plus matchup. He is our 14th ranked receiver for Week 3.

According to Ian Rapoport on Twitter, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones missed Thursday's practice with a hamstring injury.

Fantasy managers are certainly hoping that the hamstring injury led to Julio's Week 2 stinker. However, we have seen Matt Ryan look away from Julio for quarters at a time when he had inferior weapons, so the occasional valleys should come as no surprise. Julio is our fifth ranked receiver for Week 3 but may become a game-time decision if he cannot get in a limited practice session on Friday. Julio does not need to practice to play.

According to Dale Lolley on Twitter, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster missed Thursday's practice with a knee injury.

The hope here is that the Steelers are just choosing to manage their star receivers reps ahead of their matchup with the Houston Texans in Week 3. Missing practice on a Thursday is always a cause for concern for players who played on Sunday, but we will not know the Steelers plans for JuJu until the final injury reports are released on Friday. Owners should prepare contingency plans. JuJu is our 16th ranked receiver for Week 3.

According to Ian Rapoport on Twitter, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas missed Thursday's practice.

Thomas' Week 3 status is in doubt due to a high ankle sprain. The short week will do him no favors, and while Thomas himself is chomping at the bit to play, the Saints are wisely choosing to protect their superstar wide receiver from himself. The Saints passing game looked anemic outside of Alvin Kamara, with both Emmanuel Sanders and Tre'Quan Smith failing to seize the moment. Deonte Harris saw just over 50% of the snaps in Week 3.

According to Paul Gutierrez on Twitter, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller missed Thursday's practice session.

This is expected to just be a veterans maintenance day as the Raiders did not practice on Wednesday due to the short week. There is no reason to panic yet, but if Darren Waller misses Friday's practice session, it may be time to push the button. Waller is our fourth ranked tight end for Week 3.

According to Paul Gutierrez on Twitter, Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs missed Thursday's practice session.

Jacobs was listed as 'DNP' on Wednesday, but that was just an estimated practice report required by the NFL. Thursday is their first actual practice due to the short week. Jacobs has been handed a true workhorse role for the Raiders, and is on pace for over 400 carries, managing his reps during the week is likely both in the player's, and the team's best interests. He is expected to play this weekend. Jacobs is our 10th ranked running back for Week 3.

According to Matt Schneidman on Twitter, Green Bay Packers Davante Adams missed Thursday's practice.

Hopefully, they are just playing safe with their superstar wide receiver, as missing Adams for Week 3 would be a huge blow to an offense without a true number two wide receiver. Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling would move into two wide sets if Adams were to miss any time, with Tyler Ervin likely to see three-wide snaps ahead of Malik Turner. Only two of Ervin's snaps have come in the backfield all season. The Packers do play Sunday night, so the suggestion here is to get him into a flex spot with a late window backup until there is more clarity on this situation.

According to Adam Teicher on Twitter, Kansas Coty Chiefs wide receiver Sammy Watkins is in the league's concussion protocol.

The Chiefs play the Ravens on Monday, so he will have an extra day to get cleared, but this news certainly puts his Week 3 availability in jeopardy. Watkins had a strong start to the season but came back to earth in Week 2. He is dealing with concussion related symptoms, but also a neck injury. The hope he is that he is cleared by Saturday when the team puts out the final injury report. If he is unable to log a practice session by Saturday the Chiefs may rule him out early due to playing on the road. If he is ruled out, both DeMarcus Robinson and Mecole Hardman would be in line for expanded roles on offense.

According to Steve Reed on Twitter, Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady stated that he will be looking to get Curtis Samuel more involved in the offense, adding "Good things happen when the ball is in his hands".

With Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve, now would be as good a time as ever to unleash the Curtis Samuel package offensive coordinator Joe Brady, no doubt dreamed up this offseason. Samuel has been a disappointment to this point of the season, but an expanded role could put him back on the deep league flex radar. Samuel is our 71st ranked wide receiver for Week 3.

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver D.J. Chark has been ruled out for Thursday Night Football against the Miami Dolphins.

Keelan Cole and Chris Conley should step up as Gardner Minshew’s top two receivers tonight but expect impressive rookie Laviska Shenault Jr. to see an expanded role as well. Shenault has hovered between 57-62% of the snaps, and saw eight touches last week, with five of them coming via the running game. He has played ahead of Conley, but Conley may be asked to step into the Chark role due to his familiarity with the offense. Shenault is our 33rd ranked receiver for Week 3.

According to Zac Keefer on Twitter, Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle has returned to practice.

Jack Doyle missed Week 2, but the team did not miss a beat as backup Mo Alie-Cox exploded in his spot start. His return to the field on a Thursday is a good sign in terms of his potential availability for Week 3 against the New York Jets. Alie-Cox should still be involved in the increased 12 personnel looks the Colts seem poised to run, but Doyle will be returning to his starting role when he is active.

According to Joe Buscaglia on Twitter, Buffalo Bills running back Zack Moss will miss his second straight practice.

This marks the second straight missed practice for Moss who should now be considered legitimately questionable for Week 3. Moss was handed a role right out of the gate, so if he cannot go, Devin Singletary should see an expanded role. Expect T.J. Yeldon to see some snaps if Moss is ruled out, but it should be the 'Singletary show'. The hope is that Moss will be able to get in a limited practice session on Friday, with the hope of getting him ready Sunday. This is a situation to monitor ahead of Friday's final injury reports.

According to Tom Pelissero on Twitter, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver D.J. Chark is 'trending upwards' towards being able to play tonight against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday Night Football.

Chark being active would be a big boost for a Jaguars offense that already got some good news in the form of Miami Dolphins cornerback Byron Jones being ruled out. Pelissero added that a final decision would be made closer to game-time regarding his status. Chark leads the Jaguars in receiving yards and is our 18th ranked receiver for Week 3.

Saints WR Michael Thomas was listed as not participating in practice on Wednesday's injury report.

It is only an estimated practice report because the Saints played on Monday night but Thomas not participating at all is a sign that he is on track to remain sidelined for Week 3. This should not be surprising as high-ankle sprains usually take 4-6 weeks to heal. A return to practice before the weekend would signal a possible return for Thomas, but that appears unlikely as of today.

Falcons WR Julio Jones is not practicing on Wednesday after aggravating a hamstring injury in Sunday's game.

The hamstring apocalypse continues with Jones as its latest victim. This comes after Offensive Coordinator Dirk Koetter stated he believed Jones's injury is bothering him more than Jones lets on after the game Sunday. Jones did manage to finish the game but only caught two passes for 24 yards and had a brutal drop on what would have been a touchdown. Holding him out of practice is clearly not a promising sign for Jones, but it is possible the Falcons are simply giving their star receiver some necessary rest heading into Week 3.

The Broncos are not putting quarterback Drew Lock on injured reserve as they beleive he could possibly return in less than three weeks.

This is a good sign for Lock and the Broncos. A trip to the IR would knock him out for a minimum of three games so it appears there is some optimism Lock could return over the course of the next two weeks. The report notes that the possibility remains Lock misses 4 or more games so this is no guarantee Denver's optimism will prove correct. The Broncos will start Jeff Driskel on Sunday with newly-signed Blake Bortles slotting in as his backup.

A.J. Brown is sitting out of practice Wednesday as he continues to recover from a bone bruise in his knee.

Brown did not practice last week before being ruled out early for Week 2, so his absence Wednesday suggests he will likely miss Week 3 as well. Brown should be considered week-to-week until we get a more firm update on his status. The Titans top pass catchers without Brown in the fold appear to be Corey Davis and tight end Jonnu Smith with Adam Humphries getting some looks underneath.

The Eagles announced that rookie wide receiver Jalen Reagor will be placed on injured reserve and miss multiple games due to a torn ligament in his thumb.

As if the Eagles offense needed fewer weapons to work with. Reagor has not produced big fantasy numbers to this point but has shown his speed and ability as a deep threat in his first two games on a couple of big catches. Philadelphia will have to roll with DeSean Jackson and a heavy dose of Miles Sanders, Zach Ertz, and Dallas Goedert on Sunday when they take on the Bengals.

Head Coach Matt LaFleur announced the Packers plan to hold WR Davante Adams out of practice Wednesday as he recovers from a minor hamstring injury.

Speaking after Sunday's game, LaFleur appeared to downplay Adams's injury as minor and even suggested he could have gone back in the game if the score was closer. This suggests that holding Adams out of practice Wednesday is merely precautionary, although hamstring injuries can never be taken for granted. Check back Thursday for an update on Adams's practice status.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan alluded to possibly holding star tight end George Kittle out of Week 3 due to the turf at Metlife Stadium.

The 49ers suffered a rash of serious injuries in Week 2 against the Jets and have attributed them at least in part to poor field conditions at Metlife Stadium. Kittle is working his way back from a sprained knee and the 49ers will not want to take any chances with their superstar tight end that just signed a massive extension heading into this season. Hopefully Shanahan will provide updates on Kittle's status later in the week, but it's possible fantasy players will not know his status until Sunday morning inactives are released.

49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan announced on Wednesday that RB Tevin Coleman will be placed on injured reserve and miss at least four weeks.

Coleman had been working behind Raheem Mostert, who is also banged up heading into Week 3. Mostert looks doubtful at best for this week's matchup with the Giants, so the 49ers backfield will likely consist of Jerick McKinnon and Jeff Wilson on Sunday. McKinnon has looked good as a receiving back so far this season in his return from a serious knee injury, so he will likely retain pass-catching duties while Wilson runs the ball on early downs.

49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters that starting QB Jimmy Garoppolo will not practice Wednesday.

Garoppolo went down with a significant ankle sprain in Week 2, and it appears backup Nick Mullens is on track to start Week 3 against the Giants. There was optimism yesterday that Garoppolo should be able to return after a short absence, so it will be worth monitoring whether he returns to practice this week. The 49ers offense is likely to adopt an ultra run-heavy approach in Garoppolo's absence, and the offense as a whole is already messy for fantasy due to injuries.

49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters on Wednesday that tight end George Kittle will return to practice in a limited fashion.

Kittle sat out Week 2 and Jordan Reed thrived in his absence, but it looks like Kittle may be on track to return for a Week 3 matchup with the Giants. Kittle is an elite TE1 option and a must-start anytime he takes the field, but it is unlikely he is back to 100% even if he does take the field Sunday. Kittle's return would be a big boost to a 49ers team decimated by injuries on both sides of the ball.

The Chargers will start rookie QB Justin Herbert against the Panthers.

This news is hardly surprising in light of the shocking reports this morning about a team doctor inadvertently puncturing Tyrod Taylor's lung before the game last Sunday. Herbert threw a bad interception in Week 2, but otherwise looked poised in his first NFL start by racking up 311 yards and a touchdown through the air while adding another score on the ground. Herbert taking over the starting job might actually improve the outlook of the Chargers skill players in fantasy.

The Panthers placed RB Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve Wednesday with a high ankle sprain.

Injured reserve is not as scary as it normally sounds with it only requiring the player to sit out three games this season, but this report puts a damper on McCaffrey's optimism from yesterday when he said he would beat his 4-6 week timetable. Mike Davis should take over the majority of the backfield work in Carolina, although the odds of him replicating McCaffrey's production are slim. McCaffrey will be eligible to return Week 6, but we will have to wait for additional reports to know whether he will be ready to play immediately when eligible.

Lions Head Coach Matt Patricia told reporters on Wednesday that Kenny Golladay will return to practice today.

Golladay has missed the first two weeks dealing with a sore hamstring, but it appears he is ready to return and provide Detroit with a much-needed deep threat in the passing game. Golladay's return likely deals a hit to Marvin Jones's volume and relegates Quintez Cephus to a backup role. Hamstring injuries are always at risk for aggravation, so Golladay will carry risk as he works his way back, but his presence should be a big boost Matthew Stafford and the Detroit offense.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that a Chargers team doctor accidentally punctured QB Tyrod Taylor's lung while giving him an injection on Sunday.

What a wild story. Taylor was mysteriously ruled out just before kickoff Sunday, thrusting rookie Justin Herbert into the starting role. We now know why Taylor was ruled out and the odd circumstances leading to his absence. Herbert played well in Taylor's absence, but Head Coach Anthony Lynn stubbornly continues to insist Talyor is the starter when healthy. Taylor's timeframe to return is unclear, and it seems likely Herbert will get another start this week. Herbert starting might actually be a slight upgrade for the Chargers skill players in fantasy.

Dan Arnold is the No. 1 tight end, with Darrell Daniels No. 2 and Jordan Thomas No. 3.

Related players: Maxx Williams

Williams went on the injured list earlier this week. Arnold caught two balls for 26 yards in Week 2. For the year Arnold has four catches for 47 yards on six targets.

With Courtland Sutton out, Tim Patrick will see more targets alongside rookies Jerry Jeudy, K.J. Hamler and Tyrie Cleveland. Additionally, third-year pro DaeSean Hamilton and second-year pro Diontae Spencer, a former CFL star who is the Broncos’ punt returner, will also need to elevate. The depth in the receivers’ room has Patrick still feeling confident about the unit’s potential, even minus its injured Pro Bowler.

Even with a young, talented group of WRs, the story said the onus is on Patrick after spending his offseason training with Sutton and Hamilton in Miami and Atlanta, where Patrick sought to bring more refinement to his game. Patrick is a name to keep an eye on but probably isn't on a lot of radars this week, and, the QB situation isn't ideal as either Jeff Driskel or Blake Bortles will be under center until Drew Lock comes back.

Remember, George Kittle set the single-season record for receiving yards by a tight end in a season in which Nick Mullens started the last eight games. Those were mostly run-after-catch yards.

Obviously, Kittle (knee) is iffy for Sunday’s game on MetLife Stadium’s bouncy-house field. If he’s not there, I’d imagine Jordan Reed is a frequent target.

Kendrick Bourne and Dante Pettis also had good production when Mullens was under center in 2018. Mullens also threw to Matt Breida out of the backfield quite a bit, which makes Mullens a potentially good pairing with Jerick McKinnon.

Of Bourne’s 487 receiving yards, 296 came when Mullens was the quarterback. Pettis had his best NFL stretch with Mullens throwing to him — 371 of his 467 receiving yards came in the last eight games of 2018, the story said. With RBs Raheem Mostert and Tevin Coleman likely missing Week 3, McKinnon is potentially a nice play this week at RB.

According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Seahawks are putting wide receiver Phillip Dorsett on injured reserve because of his foot injury.

The Seahawks carried Phillip Dorsett on the roster for two weeks without him being able to play, now they’re giving him three weeks to get well.

Wide receiver DeVante Parker (hamstring) headlines the list of players who are listed as limited participants in practice.

Parker has been dealing with the injury the last few weeks, but has played in both games for the Dolphins and caught his first touchdown of the season in last Sunday’s loss to the Bills.

Michael Pittman Jr. also knows the best way to shorten that learning curve. Put in as much work as possible.

“That extra time is going to start paying off in Week 6, and through Week 12, and all the way through 16 weeks,” Pittman said. “That’s when I feel like I’m going to see the extra work pay off.”

The good news is that Pittman has proven he has enough talent and toughness to help the Colts in the meantime anyway.

Pittman injured his toe last week, injured it badly enough that he was a game-time decision on Sunday. At least one report said it was unlikely Pittman would play. Not only did the rookie play, he was in the game on 67 of the offense’s 73 snaps, more than any other skill position player. With Parris Campbell out with a PCL injury and no timetable to return, Pittman has a chance to emerge perhaps sooner. Pittman had a 4-37-0 line but did have some miscommunication with QB Philip Rivers, the story added.

In 2021, the Patriots are projected to have about $65 million in cap space if the salary cap is $175 million. That’s the third-most space in the league, but it doesn’t account for pending decisions on Dont’a Hightower, Marcus Cannon and Patrick Chung, who opted out this season and could reassess their futures next year.

Either way, the Patriots will have plenty of money to pay Cam Newton. But how much would they be willing to spend? Last August, the Patriots offered Tom Brady a two-year, $53 million contract and were willing to listen to his counterproposals in February and March, though he never made one. So the Patriots have accounted for having that type of contract on the books for a quarterback.

The story said it seems most likely the two sides would come together after the season. The story also went on to say Newton turns 32 on May 11, so he won’t be setting the market or negotiating in the same ballpark as Patrick Mahomes (10-year, $450 million extension in July), Deshaun Watson (four-year, $156 million extension this month) or even Dak Prescott, whenever his new deal materializes. At least for now, Newton and the Patriots seem like a good fit.

A.J. Brown would not delve into the specifics of his injury, a bone bruise in his knee that forced him from practicing Thursday and Friday.

“Just know that I'm working through it,” he said.

It’s unclear when the injury occurred, but the 6-foot, 226-pound receiver did catch a helmet to the knee with about 10 minutes left in the Titans’ season opener in Denver on Sept. 14. On a screen pass from Ryan Tannehill, Brown picked up seven yards before Denver safety Kareem Jackson went low for a tackle. Brown was slow to get up before motioning to the sideline that he was coming off the field.

As the story said, bone bruises can linger, but the fact that the Titans didn’t place Brown on injured reserve – which would mean he would have to miss the next three weeks – would seem to indicate they believe a return is not too far off.

Packers WR Davante Adams’ hamstring strain is considered minor, source said.

That's the good news, the bad news is his status for Week 3 is still to be determined, Pelissero's tweet said. The Packers take on the Saints in Week 3. The tweet went on to say: coach Matt LaFleur said Adams wanted to return to Sunday's game, but it's a long season and the team needs him healthy. We also reported Adams wanted to get back in the game after the news broke of his injury so that is a bit of encouraging news.

Free agent running back Devonta Freeman is undergoing COVID-19 testing with the expectation of signing with the Giants, NFL Media reports.

Related players: Wayne Gallman, Dion Lewis

Freeman decided to wait another week before signing and it looks like that will pay off for him. Saquon Barkley torn his ACL in Week 2, leaving a huge hole in the Giants running game. Freeman could step right in and earn a nice role here, although it could take a little time to get up to speed. Freeman will compete with Gallman for early down carries with Lewis likely picking up the third down and passing down work. Freeman had his last 1,000-yard rushing season and made his last Pro Bowl in 2016. In 14 games last season, Freeman averaged a career-low 3.6 yards on 184 rushing attempts and a career-low 4.4 yards on 243 touches. He's still only 28, and from a fantasy standpoint is worth adding for owners needing RB help or depth. The hope for owners is he ends up earning more work than Gallman on the early downs.

The Colts announced that Parris Campbell has been placed on injured reserve Tuesday. The wideout is dealing with a PCL injury in his knee and will miss at least three weeks while recovering.

Campbell remains out indefinitely, so a move to the IR isn't a surprise here. He'll miss at least three weeks based on the new IR rules. Campbell avoided an ACL tear.

What are the Saints doing with Taysom Hill?

As noted last week, his participation in offense and special teams dropped noticeably from the playoff loss to Week 1. In Week 2, Hill’s involvement dropped ever further.

Related players: Drew Brees, Jameis Winston

The story suggests Hill is likely to take over for Brees after this season, but it also doesn't rule out Brees heading to the bench this season if the team's current play continues on the same track. The story suggests the reason Hill's workload is down this year compared to the playoffs last season is maybe the Saints don't want to get Hill hurt, which means they may be planning to replace Brees with Hill at some point, maybe even sooner than later. The team did sign Jameis Winston in the offseason. If you haven't noticed by now, Hill is actually listed as a TE in many fantasy leagues, so Hill may be worth adding to your roster just to see how this plays out over the next couple of weeks.

Matt Breida has played 30 snaps, run the ball 12 times and caught one pass through the first two weeks of the season. Myles Gaskin and Jordan Howard have both gotten more carries and Gaskin has nearly tripled Breida’s snaps over the first two games.

Breida came from a crowded backfield in San Francisco, but so far it hasn't translated to more work in Miami. The story said the Dolphins haven't really played with a lead much this season, aside from a brief time in Week 2, but Breida was considered the change of pace and pass-catching option behind Howard anyway. If the trend continues, it will be tough to keep Breida on fantasy rosters.

Blake Bortles is signing a one-year deal with the Denver Broncos this week, per source. Should be finalized this week.

Related players: Jeff Driskel

Bortles will provide at least a veteran backup option to Driskel, who is still expected to start Week 3.

Wide receiver Davante Adams left the game with a hamstring injury and did not return.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur gave a positive update about the wideout’s condition during his press conference.

“I know he wanted to go back in the game,” LaFleur said, via the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “I just told him, ‘Hey, let’s see how these next few series go, and see if we need you’ Obviously, he’s a huge part of what we do offensively and a key member of this football team. If we don’t need him, we didn’t want to put him back in a position to do further harm to his own body.”

It sounds like Adams could have gone back in the game if the Packers needed him. All-in-all, it seems like good news for Adams and his owners. We'll likely know more when Wednesday's injury report comes out.

Leonard Fournette clinched Sunday’s win over the Panthers with a 46-yard touchdown, and had 104 yards on the day.

Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians isn’t ready to change his running back rotation, however, sticking with Ronald Jones as his starter.

Related players: LeSean McCoy

Arians was quoted as saying he loves the way the situation is working right now, with Jones and McCoy working early and Fournette coming in later. Fournette gained 84 of his 104 yards in the final 10 minutes of the game, including the touchdown, the story said. It's not the first time we've heard about what sounds like a 'closer' situation this week. Those who follow the Rams say Darrell Henderson essentially closed things out in Week 2 against the Eagles.

The good news is, leading receiver Kenny Golladay‘s on the verge of making his debut.

“Yeah, I mean I expect us to keep pushing forward and arrow up on that,” HC Matt Patricia said, via Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press. “So we’ll see what it looks like, obviously, but I think we’re close. And we’ll get him out and get him in some of those situations.

Golladay, who led the league with 11 touchdown receptions last season, is also entering the final year of his contract but has been dealing with a hamstring injury that has kept him out of the first two weeks.

Rams’ RB Malcolm Brown fractured his left pinky and underwent surgery Monday to repair it.

Related players: Cam Akers, Darrell Henderson

The Rams expect Brown to play Sunday at Buffalo, but are uncertain about Akers, who is now day to day with a rib issue as we reported in another post. Henderson stood out in Week 2, but if all three backs play in Week 3, it turns into a messy committee situation for fantasy owners.

Sean McVay says Cam Akers has separated cartilage in his ribs. No break. Day-to-day. Akers may still play Week 3.

Related players: Malcolm Brown, Darrell Henderson

Brown is said to be dealing with a finger injury, but is expected to play this week, according to reports. After Henderson stood out in Week 2, it seems possible all three backs could be available in Week 3, which really clouds the picture as far as how everyone will be used.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn said there were "complications" with quarterback Tyrod Taylor's treatment for chest pains Sunday but Taylor is "recovering well."

Related players: Justin Herbert

Lynn did not elaborate on what led to Taylor being hospitalized, but he said the quarterback was home Sunday night and at practice Monday. Reports say he had a bad reaction to an injection. Lynn insists Taylor will start over Herbert if healthy, despite Herbert shining in Week 2 against the Chiefs. Other reports say Lynn said Taylor gives the team the best chance to win.

The Jaguars list receiver D.J. Chark as limited.

He had four catches for 84 yards in Sunday’s loss to the Titans, playing 59 of 75 offensive snaps. The Jaguars had to release an estimated practice report since they play Thursday. They didn’t practice. It's something to keep an eye on during a short week.

After playing in just 15 snaps in Week 1, Cincinnati Bengals rookie wide receiver Tee Higgins saw an uptick in playing time in primetime.

Higgins was in for 60 total plays in the team’s 35-30 Thursday night Week 2 loss to the Cleveland Browns. He registered his first career catch in Week 2, which was an 18-yard reception along the sideline late in the second quarter.

The story said Higgins finished the game with three catches for 35 yards. His increased playing time is attributed to becoming more comfortable in Zac Taylor’s offense. Perhaps something to note in the story: Higgins was taking individual receiver reps behind A.J. Green and Tyler Boyd in Monday’s practice. He could soon emerge as the team’s third best wide receiver, the story said.

Even with Marlon Mack out, the presence of Jonathan Taylor, Jordan Wilkins (40 yards on nine carries Sunday) and this Colts offensive line, the five guys up front that have set the tone for this team ever since that turning point back in 2018.

These Colts are going to Run the Damn Ball.

They’ve got the horses to do it.

Related players: Nyheim Hines

The story said the Colts are looking to find their identity and running the ball could be it. One thing to note his Week 1 star Hines wasn't really involved in Week 2, catching just one ball for four yards. Instead it was Wilkins who was the backup to Taylor with his 9-40-0 line. For Taylor owners, Wilkens may end up being the handcuff to own with Hines playing more of a passing-down role.

Dawson Knox is in concussion protocol.

Knox has just three catches this season so far in two games, but does have 64 yards receiving while being targeted six times. Gabriel Davis would be next up if Knox can't go in Week 3 but there are probably safer options in most leagues.

49ers’ RB Tevin Coleman is expected to miss “multiple weeks” with the knee injury he suffered Sunday, per source. So 49ers are expected to be without Coleman and Raheem Mostert on Sunday at the Giants.

Related players: Jerick McKinnon, Jeff Wilson

McKinnon now finds himself as the possible lead back, or at very least sharing time with Wilson. McKinnon seems like the back to play especially in PPR leagues. He finished with an 8-92-1 rushing line while Wilson carried twice for three yards. The 9ers are on the road against the Giants this weekend.

Monday brought more details about why the Chargers made a last-minute switch to Justin Herbert at quarterback for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs.

Tyrod Taylor was set to start for the second straight week, but got taken to the hospital after experiencing chest pains before the game. NFL Media reports that those chest pains were caused by a bad reaction to a painkilling injection before the game.

A rib injury was the reason why Taylor was getting the injection. He was listed on Friday’s injury report as a full participant with the rib injury and was reportedly set to play with a flak jacket to protect the area, the story said. Herbert was impressive, throwing for over 300 yards and a TD in an OT loss to the Chiefs. The Chargers say they will go back to Taylor if he's healthy, but it's worth monitoring.

There was an update on running back Raheem Mostert, who also left the game at halftime. Shanahan said he has an MCL sprain and is likely to miss Week Three.

Related players: Tevin Coleman, Jerick McKinnon, Jeff Wilson

There was no update for Coleman in the story, who also left the game. The two injuries left McKinnon and Wilson to handle the workload, and that would likely be the case in Week 3 if Coleman is out as well. We'll continue to monitor but McKinnon is looking like an interesting pickup this week as the 9ers visit the Giants.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan remains unhappy about the condition of the turf at MetLife Stadium, but he won’t rule out the possibility of having quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo play on it against the Giants in Week 3.

Garoppolo suffered a high-ankle sprain during Sunday’s 31-13 win over the Jets and Shanahan said in a press conference that the injury is not as bad as the team initially thought it was.

Wide receiver Courtland Sutton suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's 26-21 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and will miss the remainder of the season. Sutton had missed the season opener with a right shoulder injury suffered Sept. 8 in practice and had been limited in practice in the days leading up to Sunday's game.

Additionally, Broncos quarterback Drew Lock will miss 3 to 5 weeks with a severe strain of the rotator cuff in his throwing shoulder, an injury he suffered in the first quarter Sunday.

Related players: Jerry Jeudy, Jeff Driskel, K.J. Hamler, Tim Patrick, DaeSean Hamilton

Sutton missed Week 1 with a shoulder injury and the news wasn't looking good after he suffered a knee injury in Week 2. That news was confirmed today as Sutton will now miss the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, QB Lock will miss 3-5 weeks with Driskel taking over in that time. With Sutton out, Jeudy, Hamler, Patrick and Hamilton take over. They are certainly talented names, but will take a bit of a hit with Driskel at QB. Perhaps RB Melvin Gordon sees and increase in workload.

Via Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times, Bucs coach Bruce Arians said that wide receiver Chris Godwin had cleared the concussion protocol, and would be available for Week 3 against the Broncos.

His return to the lineup is also welcome news for the Bucs coach, after watching the Bucs drop a number of passes in yesterday’s win over the Panthers. Arians said he counted at least seven drops, including three touchdowns, and probably 125 yards worth, the story said.

Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey confirmed today that doctors tell him he’s going to miss four to six weeks with an ankle injury.

McCaffrey himself, however, is optimistic that he can miss less than that.

“They say four to six weeks,” McCaffrey said. “That’s a challenge to me. Hopefully I can get back a lot earlier. I’m going to attack this.”

If the Panthers put McCaffrey on injured reserve, he’d miss at least three weeks but could return after that thanks to the NFL’s special injured reserve rules for this season. It seems unlikely McCaffrey could be back any sooner than that, but he’s hoping that he can beat the 4-6 week projection the story said.

Also, second-year wideout Parris Campbell suffered damage to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in his left knee that will sideline him indefinitely, according to the source.

Michael Pittman and Zach Pascal could see more time with T.Y. Hilton possibly sucking up more targets. While Campbell will miss time, the good news is it's not an ACL tear as some though after the injury.

Broncos’ QB Drew Lock suffered a severe rotator cuff strain and will be sidelined at least two weeks before his injury is re-evaluated again, per source.

Related players: Jeff Driskell

Driskell now slated to be Denver’s starting QB on Sunday vs. Tampa. The team will also be without Courtland Sutton at wide receiver, leaving perhaps a heavy workload for RB Melvin Gordon, but against a good Bucs defense.

New York Jets wide receiver Breshad Perriman sprained his ankle and will be considered week-to-week, a source tells ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The Jets continue to their WRs unable to get on the field. Perriman's injury left the Jets with Chris Hogan, Braxton Berrios and Josh Malone as their starting receivers for the 31-13 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. They went into the game without Jamison Crowder (hamstring) and rookie Denzel Mims (hamstring), who is on injured reserve.

James Robinson, the undrafted rookie the team opted to keep over the fourth overall pick in the 2017 NFL draft, ran for 102 yards and a touchdown and caught three passes for 18 yards in the Jaguars’ 33-30 loss at Tennessee on Sunday. He now has 164 yards on the ground this season, the most by a player in franchise history through his first two games.

The story said the plan of a committee approach has gone out the window for the Jags, who seem to be set on using Robinson as their RB1. Unlike in the season opener, when Robinson had a good first half but was stymied in the second against Indianapolis, Robinson went off in the second half against the Titans. He ran for 85 yards on 10 carries, which included a 17-yard touchdown run. He's worth grabbing if he remains on your wire.

Cam Akers, the rookie second-round pick from Florida State, suffered a rib injury on the opening drive and did not return. Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson took over, but midway through the fourth quarter, Brown exited because of a finger injury and did not return, leaving Henderson as the only available back.

It was only last week that a similar story emerged saying Brown was the closer. But, things quickly change in the NFL, especially after a different kind of offseason. HC Sean McVay did not provide an update on the severity of Akers' or Brown's injuries after the game, leaving uncertainty whether the Rams will be able to return to their committee approach in Week 3 against the Bills. This week, the value of Henderson looks to be climbing.

An MRI has confirmed that running back Saquon Barkley suffered a torn ACL in Sunday's game, the New York Giants announced Monday.

Related players: Wayne Gallman, Dion Lewis, Devonta Freeman

Gallman was a scratch in Week 2, but could take over as the early-down back with Lewis assuming the pass catching role. Back in the offseason, there were reports the Giants had confidence in Gallman. Other reports say the Giants were hosting Freeman on a visit Monday.

Even without his 46-yard run, Leonard Fournette still averaged 5.18 yards per carry Sunday, while Ronald Jones rushed for 23 yards on seven carries (3.3 average), but did score a touchdown to give the Bucs a 7-0 lead.

The story makes it seem like Fournette is starting to make his case, and it only seemed like a matter of time. The story said Brady has said on multiple instances since arriving in Tampa Bay he needs to know who he can count on. There weren’t many he could count on Sunday. Countless balls slipped through receivers’ and running backs’ hands. Jones fumbled a simple handoff at the Carolina 38 in the second quarter. Third-down back LeSean McCoy dropped what would have been a touchdown on third-and-8 with 6:25 to go. Fournette's value seems to be trending up.

Jalen Hurts, the Eagles' second-round pick in April's draft, threw for 32 touchdowns last season for Oklahoma and rushed for another 20 TDs, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He showed some of that dual-threat ability at training camp. His effectiveness was most felt in goal-line situations, particularly on zone read looks.

"We felt this week with him up, it could give us an opportunity to possibly use him in those situations that we did, and obviously he went in, executed them well," said Eagles coach Doug Pederson, "and it's a starting point as something we'll evaluate each week."

Related players: Carson Wentz

The story said the natural next step is to get the ball in his hands, the story said. The two-QB look averaged six yards per play, even though Hurts was used as a decoy. The Eagles say they are looking into the wrinkle, but starting off 0-2 could mean we see more of Hurts sooner than later.

Mike Davis is first up.

Davis, 27, was signed by general manager Marty Hurney in November after being cut by Chicago. He had only two rushes for 2 yards last season as the former staff under coach Ron Rivera liked Reggie Bonnafon as the backup to Christian McCaffrey, who played almost 94% of the snaps.

New coach Rhule has been high on Davis, though, saying the 2015 fourth-round pick out of South Carolina had one of the best training camps of anybody. As recently as last week, after McCaffrey played 97% of the snaps in the opener, Rhule said he wanted to get Davis more playing time.

It looks like Davis will get more playing time as McCaffrey is expected to miss a couple of weeks. As the story said, Davis is capable. He has 10 career starts, including six for Seattle in 2017, when he rushed for 240 yards on 68 carries and caught 15 passes for 131 yards. If the team is in fact high on Davis, it could mean they are out on a free agent like Devonta Freeman, who is visiting the Giants today. Davis looks to be a must-add off the wire this week.

Wide receiver Courtland Sutton made his 2020 debut against the Steelers on Sunday after missing the opener with a shoulder injury, but he was limited to 31 snaps due to a knee injury.

Mike Klis of KUSA reports that the concern is that Sutton’s injury is a significant one.

He is going for an MRI on Monday for a better understanding of the injury and how long it might keep him out of action. We will update, but it looks like Sutton owners should be prepared for him to miss some time. The Broncos also lost QB Drew Lock, perhaps for multiple weeks, making a lot of their offense a much-less desired one in the fantasy world going forward.

It's not the worst case scenario for the Carolina Panthers, but it is still very much a gut punch. On a Sunday that saw top talent around the league lost to injury -- several of them being major in nature -- running back Christian McCaffrey joined the list when he was knocked out of the Week 2 contest against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with an ankle injury. Those wondering if the All-Pro will be available for Week 3 need wonder no more, with unpleasant news arriving on Monday. McCaffrey is expected to miss multiple weeks with the injury, per Adam Schefter of ESPN, which makes him a candidate to land on injured reserve.

Related players: Mike Davis, Trenton Cannon

Davis and Cannon are expected to take over the workload for McCaffrey. Davis even stood out in the passing game after McCaffrey exited so he'll likely be a popular pickup this week on the wires. The story said another option for the Panthers could be free agent Devonta Freeman, but the Pro Bowler's price might suddenly be going up following an injury-ravaged NFL weekend. Freeman was said to be visiting the Giants after the loss of Saquon Barkley. Either way, Davis is a must-add.

Actually, Jonnu Smith and quarterback Ryan Tannehill have been bringing on-field energy since the offseason, even when most weren’t.

While the pandemic forced most NFL teams and players to rely completely on virtual meetings in lieu of minicamp and organized team activities, which were canceled, Tannehill and Smith happened to be in the same part of the country at the time. The pair were able to get in some valuable one-on-one time while working at a park in South Florida, learning each other’s tendencies and developing the type of on-field chemistry that can be built, well, only on the field.

The chemistry is starting to show. Smith, who finished Sunday’s game with four catches for 84 yards and two touchdowns, replaced Delanie Walker as the team’s top tight end. Smith will likely start to get noticed on if he's on the waiver wire in your league.

Giants WR Sterling Shepard, knocked out yesterday with a toe injury, is believed to be dealing with turf toe, source said.

Related players: Darius Slayton, Golden Tate

He’ll have an MRI today, but that’s an ailment that generally causes a WR to miss some time, Rapoport went on to say. Looks like Slayton and Tate could be the Giants top two wideouts. The Giants are also dealing with the loss of RB Saquon Barkley.

Saquon Barkley is expected to miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL and the Giants are looking for running back help from outside the organization.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that they will have Devonta Freeman in for a workout this week.

Freeman said last week he was waiting to sign as four teams were interested. Freeman waited things out and now the Giants could be the best fit for him. The Giants may also be motivated buyers after Barkley went down with a suspected torn ACL on Sunday, the story said. Freeman may not be able to produce at Barkley’s level, but the Giants may see him as an upgrade on the Dion Lewis and Wayne Gallman combo that currently leads their backfield. Gallman was a surprise scratch in Week 2.

Detroit Lions star wide receiver, Kenny Golladay, who missed a second straight game because of a hamstring injury, is expected to return for next weekend's contest against the Arizona Cardinals, a league source tells ESPN.

ESPN said Golladay was close to playing this past Sunday against the Green Bay Packers, but the Lions didn't want to risk further aggravating the injury. But because of how close Golladay was to playing Sunday, there's a strong sense of optimism he will be back for Week 3, according to the source and the story.

The New Orleans Saints sent Michael Thomas' ankle MRI to Green Bay to renowned surgeon Dr. Robert Anderson, who determined that the star wide receiver has a mild high ankle sprain, sources tell ESPN.

The Saints play their Week 3 game against the Packers in Green Bay, where they will have Thomas meet in person with Anderson, who also is the Packers' team doctor.

This sets up a potentially ironic scenario in which the Packers' doctor might be the one who signs off on Thomas returning to play against his team.

While any high ankle sprain might have sidelined some players for weeks, that might not be the case with Thomas, who already has been ruled out for Monday night's game against the Raiders, the story said. But, according to ESPN, Thomas surprised the Saints last week with how well he was faring despite his injury.

Chargers coach Anthony Lynn on Tyrod Taylor: “If he’s 100 percent ready to go, he’s our starter.”

Related players: Justin Herbert

Taylor was a late scratch in Week 2 giving way to the Herbert. All Herbert did was throw for 311 yards and a TD, also getting Keenan Allen involved in the passing game with a 7-96-0 line. Even Austin Ekeler was involved in the passing game with a 4-55-0 line. We'll see what the ultimate decision is for Week 3, but it seems like Herbert should be the guy going forward.

Patriots RB James White (personal reason) will not play Sunday against the Seahawks and is inactive.

New England Patriots inactives, SNF

OLB Josh Uche
OT Korey Cunningham
QB Jarrett Stidham
RB James White
TE Dalton Keene
DB Myles Bryant

In tragic news, White’s father was involved in a car crash and did not survive and his mother was also in that accident and is in critical condition. White was made aware of the news and made the decision not to play, which is completely understandable. Sony Michel and Rex Burkhead will help lead the running back room in Seattle.

Breshad Perriman is slated to undergo tests on his injured ankle Monday, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports. Chris Hogan (ribs) was banged up as well.

With Jamison Crowder (hamstring) already sidelined for Week 2, the Jets continue to be banged up at the WR position. It's anyone's guess who will suit up for the Jets heading into Week 3's game against the Colts.

Courtland Sutton (knee/leg cramping) won't return to Sunday's game against the Steelers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Related players: Jerry Jeudy, K.J. Hamler, Tim Patrick, DaeSean Hamilton.

Sutton had been dealing with a shoulder issue as well. Jeudy, Hamler, Patrick and Hamilton would be next up if Sutton has to miss more time. He was out for Week 1.

Raheem Mostert sustained a mild MCL sprain during Sunday's 31-13 road victory against the Jets, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Backfield mate Tevin Coleman, who also hurt his knee Sunday.

Related players: Jerick McKinnon, Jeff Wilson

Mostert departed the game in the second quarter, but not before accumulating 107 yards from scrimmage on 10 touche. Coleman had 12 yards on 14 carries. Because of those injuries, McKinnon (three rushes for 77 yards and a score) and Wilson (two runs for three yards) rounded out the 49ers' healthy running backs, the story said. Remember, the team signed McKinnon to be the go-to back a couple of years ago before getting hurt, so he could be finally getting his chance if Mostert and Coleman miss time.

Jimmy Garoppolo picked up a high right ankle sprain during Sunday's 31-13 road win against the Jets, Cam Inman of The San Jose Mercury News reports.

Related players: Nick Mullens

In the aftermath of the game, coach Kyle Shanahan said the 49ers won't make a decision on Garoppolo's status for next Sunday's game versus the Giants until the end of the week, the story said. As the story also added, high-ankle sprains typically require missed time, so Mullens may be poised for his first start since the 2018 campaign.

Tyrod Taylor (chest) has been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Related players: Justin Herbert

Taylor injured his chest following pregame warmups Sunday, which resulted in rookie Herbert getting a surprise start at QB for the Chargers. Taylor's status will need to be monitored in advance of next week's game against the Panthers, but like the story said, a strong effort by Herbert on Sunday could lead to a quicker than anticipated ascension to the top of the team's depth chart for the No. 6 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Sterling Shepard won't return to Sunday's contest in Chicago due to a toe injury, Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports.

Related players: Darius Slayton, Golden Tate, Damion Ratley and C.J. Board

Shepard got hurt late in the first half, limping to the sideline and reaching at his left foot before limping to the locker room, per Leonard. After attempting to run a route on the Giants' first play of the third quarter, Shepard again made a visit to the locker room, and the team ruled him out a short time later. The Giants would turn to Slayton, Tate, Ratley and Board to handle WR reps if Shepard has to miss any time.

The Giants might have lost more than just a game on Sunday as the belief is superstar running back Saquon Barkley suffered a season-ending injury.

Barkley sustained a knee injury in the first half of the Giants' 17-13 defeat to the Bears and did not return. Based on manual tests and initial diagnosis, Barkley suffered an ACL tear, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Related players: Wayne Gallman, Dion Lewis

Barkley will have an MRI, but the belief is Barkley is out for the season, Rapoport added. Gallman could be a popular pickup this week. He could get a lot of the early-down work with Lewis the change of pace and pass-catching option. But, Gallman was a surprise scratch in Week 2, leaving Lewis as the backup to Barkley this week.

Davante Adams suffered a hamstring injury during Sunday's game against the Lions, Matt Schneidman of The Athletic reports.

Related players: Allen Lazard, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Malik Taylor

Lazard, Valdes-Scantling and Taylor would see additional time if Adams has to miss Week 3. Adams left the game with a 3-36-0 line. Valdes-Scantling ended with 3-64-0 to lead WRs.

Christian McCaffrey scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter Sunday to get his Panthers within a score, but it came at a cost.

McCaffrey suffered an ankle injury on the play and did not return to Carolina's 31-17 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Related players: Mike Davis

Panthers coach Matt Rhule was unable to provide an update after the game on the severity of McCaffrey's condition. If McCaffrey has to miss time, Davis looks like he'll be next up.

Saquon Barkley has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's contest against the Chicago Bears, the Giants announced.

The sensational running back was helped off the field on the first play of the second quarter. Barkley ripped off his helmet, writhing in pain on the Bears sideline, grabbing at his right knee after a six-yard run to open the quarter. Teammates helped the running back across to the field to the Giants bench. Barkley couldn't put pressure on his right leg.

Related players: Dion Lewis, Wayne Gallman

The RB was carted to the locker room. Barkley punched the cart as he was driven off, perhaps indicating the severity of the injury, the story said. The team stated that Barkley had been taken in for X-rays on his knee and would undergo further testing Monday. If Barkley has to miss time, Gallman could see early down work with Lewis taking over his usual passing-down role.

The Denver Broncos are experiencing some trouble this Sunday in their matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, as quarterback Drew Lock returned to the locker room after sustaining a right shoulder injury. Shortly after, the team ruled him out for the remainder of the game.

Related players: Jeff Driskel

Lock immediately headed to the locker room after sustaining the injury, and was replaced by Driskel. Driskel started against the Steelers as a member of the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 17 of the 2018 season, and spent the 2019 season with the Detroit Lions.

The Indianapolis Colts may have suffered another serious injury on offense, as wide receiver Parris Campbell was carted off the field in the first quarter during the Colts' Week 2 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Related players: Michael Pittman, Zach Pascal

Campbell took a handoff from Philip Rivers, and was met by Vikings safety Harrison Smith, who hit him hard low around his left knee. Campbell immediately grabbed at his knee and remained on the ground. He had to be carted off the field. The Colts ruled him questionable to return. Campbell was likely a popular pickup in your league this week, now leaving owners scrambling once again. Pittman could see an uptick in snaps if Campbell does miss time.

Cam Akers left Sunday's game at Philadelphia due to a rib injury, Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.com reports.

Related players: Malcolm Brown, Darrell Henderson

The running back duties now fall on Brown and Henderson. Just when it seemed like Akers and Brown were going to take over after Week 1, Henderson now looks to be back in the fold.

Saints WR Michael Thomas (ankle) will not play Monday against the Raiders.

It was quite the roller coaster in terms of reports on how severe the ankle injury was, with a recent one saying he would try to play Monday. But after not practicing all week, the star wideout will sit out the first NFL game in Las Vegas. Emmanuel Sanders and Tre’Quan Smith will man the outside while Alvin Kamara and Jared Cook should become the leaders of the offense. Kamara is our RB4 and Cook is TE4 for this week.

The Buccaneers have declared WR Chris Godwin our for Sunday against the Panthers with a concussion.

Godwin was listed as doubtful on Friday so this doesn’t come as too much of a surprise. Godwin did not practice Wednesday or Thursday and was limited Friday. The Buccaneers look to be taking a cautious approach with one of their studs. Scott Miller is now in line for more snaps with Godwin out and Justin Watson could see some opportunities as well. On the flip side, Mike Evans was a full participant on Friday after dealing with a hamstring issue.