October 2020 4for4 Player News Articles

The Giants ruled out RB Devonta Freeman for Monday night against the Buccaneers.

Freeman did not practice this week with an ankle injury. Wayne Gallman will likely get the start Monday against a very tough Buccaneers defense (No. 2 vs RBs in our schedule-adjusted matchup rankings). Gallman is currently our No. 37 RB for the week.

The Eagles activated TE Dallas Goedert and WR Jalen Raegor from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s game against the Cowboys.

With Zach Ertz and DeSean Jackson among the players banged up for the Eagles, this is good timing for their offense as they get one of their big targets over the middle and their rookie speedster back for a huge division battle Sunday night for first place in the NFC East. TE Hakeem Butler was waived.

The Colts activated WR Michael Pittman from injured reserve.

Pittman was placed on IR October 3 with a calf injury. He’s expected back in the lineup Sunday against the Lions after recording nine catches for 73 yards in his first three games. Daurice Fountain was waived in a corresponding move.

Jaguars RB Chris Thompson has been activated from the reserve-COVID-19 list, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.

Thompson missed one week with the virus and will have another to get ready for Week 9. He will return to his role as a pass-catching back and primary backup to James Robinson.

Rams TE Tyler Higbee is questionable to play Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, according to Lindsey Thiry of ESPN.

Related Player: Gerald Everett

Higbee has been a fantasy disappointment in 2020 and could lose more ground on teammate Gerald Everett if he misses a second straight game.

Broncos WR Tim Patrick is questionable for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to the Broncos Twitter post.

If Patrick were to miss Sunday, the Broncos' top receiving options will all be rookies.

Broncos RB Phillip Lindsay is questionable for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers according to the Broncos Twitter post.

Related Players: Melvin Gordon, Royce Freeman

Lindsay's concussion symptoms has lessened throughout the week, making him an option for Sunday against an above average defense. Melvin Gordon would be a lock to carry majority of the backfield work if Lindsay ends up being inactive.

Seahawks RBs Chris Carson and Travis Homer are questionable for Week 8 against the San Francisco 49ers, according to the team's injury report.

Related Player: DeeJay Dallas

Carson playing would be a minor miracle after being deemed week-to-week earlier this week. Homer is expected to play based on comments from head coach Pete Carroll. One or both could see majority of the work this week if the other is out. DeeJay Dallas could also see a large chunk of work if the goal is to preserve either back.

Seahawks RB Carlos Hyde is doubtful for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers, according to the team's injury report.

Related Players: Chris Carson, Travis Homer, DeeJay Dallas

Hyde would have had an opportunity to be the lead back if healthy. If Carson cannot play, Travis Homer and DeeJay Dallas will be the Seahawks backs.

Jets RB Frank Gore is questionable for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Ralph Vacchiano of SNY.

Related Player: La'Mical Perine

Gore is a guy on a bad team that is going to get thrashed by a very good team. You should not be playing Gore in fantasy this week.

Patriots WR N'Keal Harry will miss Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills with a concussion, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.

The Patriots offense is one to avoid, especially without Harry and Julian Edelman.

Eagles WR Alshon Jeffery will not play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Jeff Skversky of ABC 6.

The Eagles will have to wait another week for Jeffery to make his season debut. Even when he returns, it is unknown how involved Jeffery will be in the offense.

Eagles RB Miles Sanders will not play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Jeff Skversky of ABC 6.

Related Players: Boston Scott, Corey Clement

Sanders will miss his second consecutive game, this time against one of the worst defenses in the NFL.

Saints WR Marquez Callaway will not play Sunday against the Chicago Bears, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.football.

Related Players: Tre-Quan Smith, Deonte Harris

Tough blow for the rookie after having a breakout performance in Week 7. The Saints will be down two receivers against the Bears Sunday.

Saints WR Michael Thomas will not play Sunday against the Chicago Bears, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.football.

Related Players: Tre'Quan Smith, Deonte Harris

Thomas has been out since the first half of Week 1 and will sit another week.

Jeremy Rauch of Fox 19 in Cincinnati had a source tell him that WR John Ross may not like football. Ross is listed as doubtful for Week 8 with an illness and has been a healthy scratch multiple times this season.

The source was anonymous, but if true, it is a tough fall from being a top 10 pick for Ross. Hopefully this is nothing more than just falling out with the sport he played and nothing more severe.

Raiders WR Bryan Edwards is questionable to play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns, according to Tashan Reed of The Athletic.

Edwards is not expected back this week, but the rookie wideout has practiced for the first time in weeks.

Packers K Mason Crosby is questionable for Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers according to the team website.

Crosby was injured in Week 7 and logged a limited practice Friday. If there is a comparable kicking option available in your league, it may be wise to add them.

Cowboys QB Andy Dalton is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, according to Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network. Dalton remains in concussion protocol.

Related Player: Ben DiNucci

Dalton was expected to miss Week 8, so this designation is no surprise.

Ravens RB Mark Ingram is doubtful to play Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Jamison Hensley of ESPN.

Related Players: Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins

Ingram was heading towards an out designation because he had not practiced all week. There is pretty much no chance Ingram plays against the run-stuffing Steelers defense.

Bills WR John Brown will not carry an injury designation for Week 8's game against the New England Patriots, according to the Buffalo Bills injury report.

Related Player: Gabriel Davis

Brown's return gives the Bills their full complement of receivers for Week 8. John Brown is a WR3 with WR2 upside against a struggling Patriots defense.

Falcons WR Calvin Ridley is considered day-to-day after Friday's MRI on his foot, according to Ian Rapoport.

Ridley has 10 days to recover and test his prior to Week 9's game against the Denver Broncos.

Packer RB Aaron Jones has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, according to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Related Players: Jamaal Williams, A.J. Dillon

Williams filled in admirably in Week 7, but the offense is at its best with a healthy Aaron Jones. The Packers face a weak Vikings defense Sunday.

Allen Robinson is questionable for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints, according to the Chicago Bears injury report. He remains in the concussion protocol.

UPDATE: Robinson is now listed as doubtful according to Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune.

Related Players: Anthony Miller, Darnell Mooney, Javon Wims

Robinson is the key to the Bears offense. If he is out, the rest of the offense will struggle even more than it already has. Expect to look elsewhere for wide receiver help.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told reporters that WR Sammy Watkins will miss Sunday's game against the New York Jets.

Related Players: Demarcus Robinson, Mecole Hardman, Byron Pringle

Watkins will miss his third consecutive game.

Colts head coach Frank Reich told reporters that no decision has been made about activating WR Michael Pittman from IR. Reich will watch Friday's practice tape and have meetings before making a decision, according to George Bremer of The Herald Bulletin.

Related Players: T.Y. Hilton, Marcus Johnson, Zach Pascal

Pittman suffered a scary leg injury and has recovered to the point where he could command snaps during his breakout earlier in the season. Pittman's return would cap Marcus Johnson's snap total the most, but he would take work from each receiver.

Colts TE Mo Alie-Cox is questionable for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, according to Kevin Bowen of 1070 The Fan.

Related Players: Trey Burton, Jack Doyle

Cox's potential return would make the tight end snap distribution murky again for the Colts. Burton has been great since returning from IR, and Cox had his best game of his career a few weeks back. Sunday's inactives will determine how to use any of the trio.

Vikings RB Dalvin Cook does not carry an injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network.

UPDATE: Cook was added to the report as questionable, but is expected to resume his normal workload according to head coach Mike Zimmer.

Related Player: Alexander Mattison

Big news for the Vikings offense after sputtering in the run game in Week 6. Minnesota's defense will be without their top four cornerbacks, so all offensive weapons will be needed to keep up with the Green Bay Packers.

Buccaneers RB Leonard Fournette told reporters that his ankle feels 100% now, according to Carmen Vitali of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Fournette will return to his complimentary role alongside Ronald Jones. Fournette should see majority of the receiving work out of the backfield, as well as spelling Jones.

Browns TE Austin Hooper will not play Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, according to Nate Ulrich of the Akron Beacon Journal.

Related Players: Harrison Bryant, David Njoku

Hooper will miss his second consecutive game after having an emergency appendectomy last week.

Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll told Dave Wyman on KIRO's morning show that RBs Chris Carson and Carlos Hyde will be game-time decisions against the San Francisco 49ers.

Related Players: Travis Homer, DeeJay Dallas

Carroll also said that Travis Homer will play, so the worst case scenario is the Seahawks are short their top two backs. Homer and Dallas will have value as members of the offensive juggernaut that is Seattle. The 49ers are also short many of their best defensive players in Week 8.

Dolphins WR DeVante Parker will play Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams, according to Cameron Wolfe of ESPN.

Parker will more thank likely see a healthy dose of Jalen Ramsey Sunday, but it is good to see him ready to roll. Parker fits more as a WR3 in Week 8.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has ruled out RB Joe Mixon for Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans.

Related Player: Giovani Bernard

It has been a difficult season for Cincy's star back. He has not practiced since injuring the foot during Week 6.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy told reporters Friday that QB Andy Dalton has to practice Saturday in order to be considered available for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Dalton is currently in concussion protocol.

Related Player: Ben DiNucci

Do not expect Dalton to suit up Sunday. He would be a clear avoid with a patchwork Cowboys offensive line.

According to Jets head coach Adam Gase, WR Jamison Crowder will not practice Friday and is expected to miss Sunday's game against the Knasas City Chiefs.

Related Players: Braxton Berrios, Jeff Smith

The Jets appear to be without their two best receivers Sunday as Breshad Perriman has already been ruled out. Avoid the Jets offensive players in fantasy.

Jets WR Breshad Perriman will not play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post.

Related Players: Jeff Smith, Braxton Berrios

Perriman was hit hard towards the end of their Week 7 loss. His games played streak will end at one. Tough loss after showing some promise.

The Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings have each had one player test positive for COVID-19, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

The New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers have had zero new COVID-19 cases based on the latest testing, according to Mark Maske of the Washington Post.

X-rays on WR Calvin Ridley's foot came back negative, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. He is set to have an MRI Friday.

Good news for Ridley, but he is not out of the woods yet. It would not be surprising to see the star receiver miss at least one game after exiting Thursday night's win in Carolina.

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick does not think the knee surgery WR Julian Edelman underwent is a "season-ending situation", according to Jim McBride of the Boston Globe.

The veteran wide receiver has been hobbled by the injury all season, and outside of one stellar week, has been a fantasy dud. Hopefully this is not the end of the 2020 season for Edelman and he can contribute at some point in the second half of the season.

Seattle Seahawks running back Chris Carson missed his second straight practice due to a foot injury.

Carson was initially given a one to two-week timeframe to return to action, but he has apparently made enough progress that reports suggest that he will be a game-time decision against the 49ers. He will likely need to practice in some fashion tomorrow to avoid being ruled out, but if he can, expect the decision to come down to the wire. With Carlos Hyde also missing his second day of practice, rookie running back DeeJay Dallas could be in line to start for the Seahawks.

Buffalo Bills wide receiver John Brown logged his second full practice session in a row.

Brown appears to be a good bet to suit up this weekend, as it will likely take a setback to prevent him from being cleared to take on New England. His presence on the field will help open things up for his teammates and will hopefully be able to help the entire Bills offense bounce back from a disastrous showing against the New York Jets. Brown is currently our 65th ranked receiver for Week 8.

Chicago Bears star wide receiver Allen Robinson missed Thursday's practice due to a concussion.

Robinson is in the league's concussion protocol and will likely need to get in at least one practice session for the Bears to feel comfortable letting him play against New Orleans. Darnell Mooney should see a major target increase if Robinson is ruled out, with Anthony Miller also seeing his floor raised significantly. This is is a situation to monitor closely tomorrow. Robinson managers should start preparing contingency plans.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard practiced for the second straight day.

Allen Lazard seems to be making good progress in his recovery and has even returned to the practice field. The Packers are not required to divulge his participation level as he is still on the injured reserve list, but the video linked above suggests that he may have earned the limited tag if he was listed. Lazard will provide a major boost to the Packers passing game when he returns, but he is still a far from ideal number two receiver in the year 2020. He is inching closer to a return, though fantasy managers should continue to plan to be without him until the Packers officially activate him.

According to Geoff Mosher on Twitter, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jalen Reagor will pay this Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys.

Reagor's return couldn't have come at a better time, as the Eagles have what could prove to be a pivotal divisional matchup against the Dallas Cowboys this weekend. Reagor has been sidelined since Week 2 with the injury but should step right back into his starter's role. The Eagles drafted him in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft Reagor to start as a rookie, and with all of their injuries at the position, he will get that opportunity. He should open things up for the entire offense, and should be involved as a runner as well. The Cowboys secondary is just what the doctor ordered to get Reagor's rookie season jumpstarted.

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas returned to a limited practice on Thursday.

Thomas picked up a hamstring injury that caused him to be ruled out for Week 7, but his return to practice on a Thursday suggests that he may be able to get cleared for Week 8. His return to the practice field does not guarantee that he will be cleared, but it certainly leaves room for optimism. He was able to log a limited practice session today, and even if he is limited again tomorrow, he should be cleared to play. Thomas will be a WR1 against Chicago if he is cleared.

New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman is likely out for Week 8 against the Buffalo Bills.

With Edelman expected to join N'Keal Harry (concussion) on the sidelines for Week 8, the Patriots will be painfully thin at wide receiver for a critical divisional tilt against the Buffalo Bills. Edelman underwent a procedure on his troublesome knee and is expected to miss 'some time'. With both of the Patriots 'top' receivers expected to be unavailable, Damiere Byrd will be joined by Jakobi Meyers and Gunner Olszewski in three wide sets. With Cam Newton struggling and the forecast calling for 50 mph winds and rain, none of the Patriots receivers project as viable fantasy options for Week 8.

According to Zac Stevens on Twitter, Denver Broncos running back Phillip Lindsay is practicing.

Lindsay appears to be on the practice field and is reported to have huge strides in the concussion protocol. He has not exited the protocol, but apparently, he has reached a stage where the team doctors were comfortable in allowing him to take the practice field. Lindsay is expected to be cleared in time for this weekend's matchup and is our 33rd ranked running back for Week 8.

According to Ben Baby on Twitter, Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon was not spotted at practice.

Mixon appears set to miss his second straight contest, as only a full session on Friday will be able to convince the Bengals to let him suit up. Mixon has been a bit of a disappointment this season due to negative gamescripts, but remains one of the more talented backs in the league. With Mixon out, Gio Bernard should get another week as the Bengals lead back. Bernard is our 11th ranked running back for Week 8.

According to Adam Schefter on Twitter, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew is dealing with multiple fractures and a strained ligament in his right thumb.

According to Schefter, Minshew is now in danger of missing Week 9 with the injury. While Minshew is more relevant in superflex leagues than he is in single QB leagues, his absence could prove to be bad news for all of the Jaguars skill players. The Jaguars have one of the weakest QB rooms in the league, with Mike Glennon backing up Gardner Minshew. This is a situation to monitor closely.

According to Tom Pelissero on Twitter, Carolina Panthers superstar running back Christian McCaffrey is not expected to be activated from injured reserve ahead of tonight's contest against the Atlanta Falcons.

There had been some hope that CMC would be available for Thursday Night Football after missing Week 8. Those hopes were raised when he returned to practice this past week, but with 10 extra days to allow him to heal before the Panthers play again, holding him out one more contest may be in CMC's best interests. Mike Davis should be primed for another high volume outing against a Falcons team he gashed for 89 rushing yards, nine receptions, 60 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown in Week 5. Davis is our number six running back for Week 8.

Buccaneers Head Coach Bruce Arians told reporters on Wednesday that newly-signed wide receiver Antonio Brown is already in meetings and "ready to go" for Week 9.

Brown's addition to the Tampa Bay receiver room is one of the bigger storylines of the fantasy season thus far. Brown's role, and his effect on Chris Godwin, Mike Evans, and Rob Gronkowski, will have to be evaluated once we see Brown in a game, but it is safe to say the current Buccaneers pass-catchers are all at risk of losing some volume to the talented but troubled wideout. Brown has one more week left on his suspension but should be in the lineup catching passes from Tom Brady in less than two weeks when the Bucs take on the Saints.

Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll told reporters on Wednesday that running back Carlos Hyde's hamstring injury is "not major."

The update from Carroll is newsworthy because starter Chris Carson is poised to be a game-time decision this Sunday when the Seahawks host the 49ers. If Carson ends up sitting, Hyde is next in line to assume the early-down workload against San Francisco. The 49ers are a tough matchup for running backs, but Hyde would be a volume-based flex play if he gets the starting nod in Week 8.

Eagles starting running back Miles Sanders sat out of practice Wednesday due to his knee injury.

Sanders missed last Thursday's game and reports at the time suggested he should only miss 1 or 2 games total. The missed practice on Wednesday and the fact that the Eagles have a bye in Week 9 suggest that the team could hold him out one more game to give him a full three weeks to get healthy. Boston Scott took over the majority of the backfield work with Sanders out and would be a RB2 against the putrid Dallas defense if Sanders has to sit again.

Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll told reporters Wednesday that starting running back Chris Carson will be a game-time decision for Week 8 against the 49ers.

Carson is missing practice with what the team is calling a mild foot sprain. Carson has already dodged a serious knee injury this season, and it now looks like he has avoided the dreaded Lisfranc fracture in his foot based on recent reports. Fantasy managers rostering Carson should look into grabbing Carlos Hyde (hamstring) or DeeJay Dallas off waivers this week in the event Carson gets ruled out Sunday morning. Hyde is dealing with his own injury issues but would assume a significant role if he can play but Carson cannot.

Cowboys quarterback Andy Dalton is not practicing Wednesday.

This is not surprising after Dalton took a nasty shot to the head last week and had to be carted off the field. Dalton is likely to miss Week 8, meaning rookie Ben DiNucci is in line to make his first NFL start against the Eagles on Sunday night. Garrett Gilbert is the other option at quarterback for Dallas. The Eagles will be one of the top D/ST plays on the slate this weekend.

Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas still has not returned to practice according to reporters at the open portion of Wednesday's practice.

Thomas appeared on track to return last week, but ended up suffering a hamstring injury during practice so his absence was extended through Week 7. This report puts his Week 8 status into doubt with him missing practice entirely on a Wednesday due to a soft tissue injury. Teammate Emmanuel Sanders was also not at practice so the Saints may have to rely on Tre'Quan Smith and Jared Cook to catch passes again this week.

Packers starting running back Aaron Jones is not practicing Wednesday due to his calf injury.

Reports out of Green Bay suggest the Packers will be cautious in bringing Jones back into the fold meaning he is likely to miss Week 8 against the Vikings. Given that Jones was apparently a game-time decision in Week 7, fantasy managers should anticipate him returning in Week 9, although he will not get as much time off as it appears with Green Bay playing on Thursday Night Football next week. Check back later in the week for an update on Jones's status.

Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters on Wednesday there is a "possibility" running back Nick Chubb will return in Week 10.

The Browns are set to face the Raiders on Sunday before entering a bye week. It sounds like the Browns believe Chubb can return after the bye. Kareem Hunt has been holding down the Cleveland backfield in Chubb's absence, but his usage will be reduced to his usual change-of-pace and pass-catching role upon Chubb's return. However, as we saw before Chubb's injury, Cleveland's run-heavy scheme makes both Chubb and Hunt startable assets in fantasy.

Bengals RB Joe Mixon will not practice Wednesday due to his foot injury.

The Bengals have been extremely vague about Mixon's foot injury so it is hard to gauge his availability for Week 8. Mixon's practice status will have to be monitored throughout the week. Luckily the Bengals have a set plan for when Mixon misses time, which is giving Giovani Bernard bellcow treatment. Bernard should be rostered in all leagues until we know Mixon's status for Sunday as he will retain RB2 status if Mixon misses another game.

Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports that the Packers are exploring the possibility of trading for Texans wide receiver Will Fuller.

Well this would be interesting. The Packers were widely criticized for failing to add any wide receivers to their offense during the offseason, but pairing Fuller with Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams would grab headlines for real and fantasy football. The report notes that a deal is not imminent but Fuller managers should monitor the news for a potential move before the deadline.

The 49ers designated running back Tevin Coleman to return from injured reserve Wednesday and believe he has a chance to play this week.

The team will see how Coleman does in practice before deciding whether he will play or not, but it sounds like there is a real chance he returns for a great matchup against Seattle in Week 8. Coleman's return would take some of the appeal out of JaMycal Hasty as a waiver wire flier, although Jeff Wilson Jr. suffered his own injury this past week and Raheem Mostert remains sidelined so Hasty should have a role against the Seahawks regardless of Coleman's status.

Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson entered the NFL's concussion protocol on Wednesday.

Robinson's entry into concussion protocol throws his Week 8 status into doubt as he will be in a race against time to get cleared for Sunday's game against the Saints. If Robinson misses Week 8, teammates Anthony Miller and Darnell Mooney would see a boost in usage at receiver. His absence would likely open up additional opportunities for tight ends Jimmy Graham and Cole Kmet as well.

Vikings running back Dalvin Cook will return to practice Wednesday as he works his way back from the groin injury he suffered in Week 5.

Cook missed one game and then had a bye week to nurse his groin injury. Early reports indicate that Cook should be able to return for Week 8's matchup with the Packers so long as he doesn't have any setbacks during practice this week. Alexander Mattison flopped in Cook's absence in Week 6 but would retain a large role if Cook is forced to sit again.

Eagles rookie wide receiver Jalen Reagor is returning to practice on Wednesday after undergoing surgery on his thumb.

Reagor's level of participation in practice is yet to be determined and will be the best indicator of whether he might actually return to game action this week. Reagor was attracting some deep targets before hurting his thumb but it is best to take a wait-and-see approach with the rookie wideout in fantasy as he comes back from a prolonged absence.

The Eagles designated tight end Dallas Goedert to return from injured reserve and expect him to practice Wednesday.

Goedert has been sidelined for four weeks due to an ankle injury, but will instantly assume TE1 status when he returns with Zach Ertz out injured. The Eagles are desperate for pass catchers and Goedert should would walk into a solid target share whenever he is ready to go. The Eagles are slowly but surely getting healthy, and the return of injured skill players should benefit the offense as a whole for fantasy purposes.

Rookie wide receiver Denzel Mims is healthy and should be targeted often in the offense.

The Jets are selling and want to get a look at their young group of players. Mims could start to get more significant work, much like La'Mical Perine is perhaps starting to get at running back. Many players on the current roster were not hand-picked by GM Joe Douglas. They’re from the past regime. If Douglas can get more draft capital by dealing some players that he didn’t acquire and aren’t in his plans, he won’t hesitate to make a move.

Chicago Bears coach Matt Nagy does not intend to relinquish playcalling duties or revert back to quarterback Mitch Trubisky in the wake of Monday night's disastrous 24-10 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

Related players: Nick Foles

Through seven games, and a 5-2 record, the Chicago offense ranks 27th in points per game (19.7), 30th in yards per play (4.8), 30th in yards per run (3.8), 29th in yards per pass (5.6), 30th on third-down conversions (35.1%) and 29th in red zone efficiency (47.6%), the story said. Foles is the 27th-ranked NFL passer in terms of QBR (46.2), the story added.

The Colts have been pleased with the progress Jonathan Taylor’s made since Marlon Mack’s injury threw him headlong into the fire.

“He’s done everything that he needs to do,” Indianapolis running backs coach Tom Rathman said. “It’s just about getting experience. The more he gets, the better he’s going to be.”

Taylor's numbers have been pretty good the past four games the author pointed out. The rookie is the one keeping the rushing attack afloat right now, according to the story. Taylor has rushed 54 times for 244 yards over the past four games, a 4.5-per-carry average that dwarfs the rest of the running game. Over the same four-game span, backups Jordan Wilkins and Nyheim Hines have produced just 107 yards on 39 carries, an ugly 2.7 yards per carry. Despite fumbling issues in college and not being known as a pass catcher, Taylor hasn't fumbled this season and is third on the team in receptions.

Wide receiver Julio Jones was listed as limited for the second day in a row. He’s dealing with a hip ailment and had eight catches for 97 yards against Detroit.

Related players: Russell Gage

If Jones wouldn't be able to go on the short week, Gage would get a boost, but he's dealing with an injury himself, to his knee, and was also limited. The Falcons will practice again on Wednesday before issuing any injury designations for Thursday’s game against the Panthers, the story said.

The Rams announced Tuesday they have signed former UCLA kicker Kai Forbath after seeing rookie Sam Sloman continue to struggle.

Sloman, a seventh-round draft pick from Miami (Ohio), missed an extra-point attempt for the third time in 18 tries this season when a kick was blocked in the Rams’ 24-16 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

Forbath was signed off the Chicago Bears’ practice squad and joined the Rams’ 53-man active roster. Sloman remains with the team, and Forbath takes the roster spot open after linebacker Ogbonnia Okoronkwo was placed on injured reserve with an elbow sprain that’s expected to sideline him at least four weeks, the story said.

Panthers coach Matt Rhule on Christian McCaffrey’s chances of playing on Thursday against Atlanta after he practiced today: “I’m hopeful. I’ll have to see how he responds to today. It was great having him out there.’’

Related players: Mike Davis

According to reports, CMC was in the red jersey on Monday and Tuesday indicating that he may not play this week on a short week, leaving Week 9 as perhaps a more realistic target. Rhule wouldn’t get into how much work McCaffrey did, according to story, but did say CMC “looks good. He looks like he’s moving around great. Just we’ll let the medical people and him determine how much he can do, or when he can play in a game.’’ We'll continue to monitor leading right up to inactives before the game.

Giants RB Devonta Freeman did not participate in practice today.

Related players: Wayne Gallman

He was working off to the side during position drills, the tweet went on to say. Freeman hurt his ankle against the Eagles. If he can't go, Gallman likely takes over as the lead back. Gallman looked good in his limited time against Philly and would at least get a nice workload in Week 8 if Freeman is out.

Source: The Ravens are signing WR Dez Bryant to the practice squad. Officially back.

Bryant last played for the Saints but tore his Achilles soon after signing. Owners probably don't need to rush out and pickup Bryant in typical leagues at this point. The Ravens struggles in the passing game as well as Bryant being out of action for so long doesn't make for a great combination. But perhaps in deeper, non-traditional leagues he may be worth taking a chance. It's hard to imagine him having a large workload in the Ravens offense.

Christian McCaffrey has been designated to return from the reserve/injured list.

Related players: Mike Davis

This opens his 21 day window to return. McCaffery practiced on Monday and Tuesday but wore a red non-participation jersey both days. This likely indicates he won't be ready to go Thursday night, but owners can still hold out hope as other reports say he's pushing to return this week. If he can't go, Davis gets another week as the team's RB1. The good news is it looks like CMC should be back for Week 9's game against the Chiefs.

Veteran Carlos Hyde and rookie fourth-round pick DeeJay Dallas were their only available tailbacks by the end of Sunday night's game, after Chris Carson and Travis Homer went down hurt. But HC Pete Carroll is unsure of Hyde's status for this week due to tightness in his hamstring. The coach said Homer has a knee bruise and not an injury, adding, "So that's something he has a chance to recover from."

Related players: Rashard Penny

This will be an interesting situation heading into Week 8. COVID-19 protocols make it difficult for teams to adjust to injuries on the fly. Players must go through several days of testing before they're allowed to enter an NFL facility. That will make it impossible for the Seahawks to sign a free agent in time to reinforce their backfield for this week's home game against the San Francisco 49ers (4-3), unless that running back had already started or completed his testing, the story said. With Penny still on the PUP list and not likely to practice this week, it could mean Dallas is the only healthy option, unless Homer can recover from the knee bruise. Keep an eye on this situation, but right now it's not a clear as to who the main ball carrier will be.

Without Kenyan Drake, the Cardinals will rely on Chase Edmonds to be their primary ball carrier. He had 58 yards on five carries and 87 yards on seven catches in Sunday night's 37-34 overtime victory over the Seattle Seahawks.

Related players: Eno Benjamin

It's not breaking news but it's good to be reassure if you're an Edmonds owner. We've had reports over the past few weeks from those who follow the team saying Edmonds deserved to get more work because he was more effective than Drake, although with lesser touches, most of this season. Edmonds is going to get his chance. Look for Benjamin to get a bump as well. Edmonds could very well be on your wire, he needs to be picked up.

Injury news from the Bucs, WR Chris Godwin fractured his left index and underwent surgery.

Related players: Mike Evans, Scott Miller

Godwin is out for Week 8, as the tweet went on to say. Evans should get a boost with Godwin out, but other reports say Evans and Miller are banged up too. Evans is dealing with a ankle injury and Miller is dealing with a bad hip. For the record, this is why the Bucs say they signed Antonio Brown, but Brown won't play until at least Week 9.

The Kansas City Chiefs provided a peek into what their world will look like with Clyde Edwards-Helaire or Le'Veon Bell as the featured running back on Sunday. Edwards-Helaire played more (27 snaps to 17 for Bell) and got the ball more (nine touches to six for Bell).

But the way the Chiefs divided the backfield work in their 43-16 win over the Denver Broncos might not be the way they do it this Sunday against the New York Jets at Arrowhead Stadium (1 p.m. ET, CBS) or beyond. Bell just walked in their door last week after signing as a free agent. The Chiefs had 51 snaps against the Broncos in an unusual game.

While the news seemed better for CEH owners when the signing first happened (saying CEH would still be the starter), this story paints a picture of a specific game plan for the backs depending on the week and the opponent - which fantasy owners likely won't know ahead of time. The Chiefs also said both backs could be on the field at the same time, which happened for one snap this past week.

The presence of Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams gives Green Bay an extraordinary amount of talent at the running back position, at least for the time being. Jones and Williams are in the last years of their respective contracts.

Williams showed he can carry the workload, as he filled in for an injured Jones this past week. NFL teams in need of a running back next season almost certainly will be watching the tapes to see if Williams might fit their profile. For those in keeper leagues, having Williams on your roster at the end of the year seems like a good idea right now, just to see how things play out next season.

There's a need to be realistic for a rookie making his first pro start at quarterback, especially one who has overcome a career-threatening hip injury suffered in November 2019.

Ryan Fitzpatrick was playing well for the 3-3 Dolphins, and he's very comfortable within the scheme. It should not be a surprise to see a Tua Tagovailoa-led offense take an initial step back.

As the story said, what we do know about Tua is he can make all the throws, including some Fitzpatrick can't. Tagovailoa's athleticism provides a new element, and he has spent the past few months soaking up everything from the 16-year veteran QB and 68-year-old offensive coordinator Chan Gailey.

What a relief it must have been for Brandon Beane to see Zack Moss inject some life into the Bills’ running game in the second half. Moss finished with seven carries for 47 yards to go with three catches for 25 yards, good for 7.2 yards per touch.

After missing three games with a toe injury, that ailment seems to be behind him, the story said. It added Moss was running with more conviction than he did prior to the injury and was ripping through tackles the way he did while barreling his way through the Pac-12 in college.

Cole Beasley will continue to be valuable if teams continue to take away the deep part of the field against the Bills. Josh Allen targeted him 12 times against the Jets, and Beasley hauled in 11 of those passes.

As the story said, Allen doesn’t have a security blanket at tight end and the Bills don’t have a superstar running back coming out of the backfield. Stefon Diggs is a go-to receiver, but on the underneath routes Allen knows he can rely on Beasley to find the openings in zone coverage and be where he needs to be. Allen attempted 33 passes within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage and 39 passes within 15 yards of the line of scrimmage, the story went on to say.

Tua Tagovailoa enjoys utilizing quick receivers with route-running ability. DeVante Parker and Preston Williams are clearly the team’s No. 1 and 2 wideouts, but Isaiah Ford might be one of the better route runners on the team.

Ford relies on his speed and got off to a solid start this season, including a career-best seven-catch, 76 yard-performance against the Bills in Week 2. As the story also said, he has cooled off since and didn’t register a target against the Jets. Ford will be looking to bounce back against the Rams, who are tough defensively both up front and in the secondary. He's a name to keep an eye on and could potentially click with Tua this week.

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel and running back Jeff Wilson Jr., both of whom played major roles in Sunday's 33-6 win against the New England Patriots, are expected to miss extended time, according to coach Kyle Shanahan.

Related players: Kendrick Bourne, Jerick McKinnon, JaMycal Hasty

Samuel is dealing with a left hamstring strain and will "most likely" miss this week's game at the Seattle Seahawks and next week's home contest against the Green Bay Packers, according to Shanahan. Wilson is the latest 49er to suffer a high left ankle sprain and is expected to go on injured reserve this week, which means he will have to miss at least the next three games, the story said. As we reported just a bit ago, Bourne looks like he'll take over for Samuel while McKinnon could jump back into a bigger role at RB. The 49ers said they purposely cut back on McKinnon's workload this past week (surprise fantasy owners) but it should mean he gets a bigger role this week. However, the rookie Hasty has looked good and could take some of the workload at RB.

Wayne Gallman needs a change of scenery.

He will not get it this week, unless a team out there wants to give up a (very) late-round draft pick for him. Otherwise, Gallman’s four-year contract as a 2017 fourth-round pick out of Clemson will expire after this season and he will look elsewhere to continue his stagnant NFL career.

Gallman played behind Saquon Barkley and most recently Devonta Freeman. As the story said, Gallman gave the offense some life last week in a loss to the Eagles after Freeman left the game. It looks like after his contract is up this season he'll be on the move.

If Deebo Samuel (hamstring) can't play against the Seahawks, Kendrick Bourne likely would start opposite Brandon Aiyuk, and Dante Pettis likely would be in uniform for the first time in three weeks. The 49ers also have the option of elevating Kevin White or River Cracraft from the practice squad.

The injury happened on a run play. Samuel was second among WRs in snaps behind Aiyuk and from what the article said, Bourne would step into Samuel's role if the injury keeps him out in Week 8.

Cardinals’ RB Kenyan Drake is expected to miss “a few weeks” with a slight tear of a ligament in his ankle, per source.

Related players: Chase Edmonds

The Cardinals are treating it like a high ankle sprain, Schefter went on to say. Enter Edmonds. Many who follow the team were pushing for Edmonds to get more work over Drake, but Drake was OK against the Jets and good against the Cowboys last week. That resulted in Edmonds to get dropped to the waiver wire in some leagues. If he's out there, he's worth a pickup this week. He'll take over as the team's RB1. Eno Benjamin and Jonathan Ward are up next on the depth chart.

Seahawks RB Chris Carson, who left the game early, had his MRI and it showed that he did have a mid-foot sprain.

Related players: Carlos Hyde

He’s week-to-week, according to the tweet. Rapoport said it's an indication he’ll miss some time. Hyde should be picked up as a fill in if Carson does miss games.

Chargers TE Virgil Green, who exited yesterday right after scoring a TD, is a candidate for injured reserve.

Virgil has a lateral ankle sprain. The injury looked bad, but fortunately X-Rays were negative. Green will miss several weeks according to Rapoport, but should return later this season.

The Eagles placed DeSean Jackson and Hassan Ridgeway on IR. That opens two roster spots to activate players from IR, if they're ready.

Jackson has a fractured ankle but could return if the Eagles advance to the playoffs. Jalen Reagor and Alshon Jeffery are expected to return sooner than later. Travis Fulgham will continue to be the team's WR1.

Joe Mixon will be day-to-day.

Related players: Giovani Bernard

With a bye in Week 9, it's possible the Bengals just hold out Mixon another week for some extra rest and he returns after the bye. If Mixon doesn't go in Week 8, Bernard should get a majority of the work. This past week Bernard carried 13 times for 37 yards but caught five balls for 59 yards and a TD.

Diontae Spencer, Tim Patrick and Derrek Tuszka will all be day to day, according to Fangio.

DaeSean Hamilton could see a bump in snaps if Patrick can't go this Sunday. Patrick was leading the way for Bronco WRs with a 3-44-0 line before getting hurt after going over 100 yards the last two weeks. Hamilton caught two balls for 26 yards. The Broncos used a heavy TE attack as Albert Okwuegbunam, Noah Fant and Nick Vannett combined for a 12-123-0 line against the Chiefs.

Broncos Phillip Lindsay remains in concussion protocol.

Related players: Melvin Gordon

Gordon would handle a majority of the workload if Lindsay can't clear protocol. Owners should continue to monitor as we get closer to the weekend. The Broncos are a late afternoon game on Sunday.

Breshad Perriman is in the concussion protocol.

Jamison Crowder (groin) is also banged up so the Jets continue to be short at WR. Denzel Mims and Braxton Berrios also caught passes for the Jets this past week and could be counted on again in Week 8.

Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey is considered a longshot to play Thursday vs. the Falcons, source said.

Related players: Mike Davis

But they haven’t ruled him out and he’s pushing to play, Rapoport went on to say in the tweet. However, the short week won't help. He’ll work his way back into practice and see if he can make enough progress, Rapoport added. Davis would continue to be the RB1 if CMC is out again this week. Even if CMC plays, he may not see a full workload.

Roster Moves: Eagles have activated 21-day practice windows for LB T.J. Edwards, S Rudy Ford, T Jason Peters, and WR Jalen Reagor.

Related players: Travis Fulgham

The Eagles have a bye in Week 9, so perhaps a realistic timetable for Reagor to return could be Week 10. With DeSean Jackson having a fractured ankle, the future of the Eagles at WR could be Fulgham and Reagor. Alshon Jeffery could also return sooner than later.

Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said last week that the next steps for T.J. Hockenson — how the second-year tight end could earn a bigger share of the passing attack — were “to continue to gain some separation and kind of come through with some big plays for us.”

The story said Hockenson has checked both those boxes. It added ahead of the Monday night game, here are the players who created more separation on their targets in Week 7, per Next Gen Stats: Deebo Samuel, 49ers (7.0 yards), Evan Engram, Giants (5.2 yards), Christian Kirk, Cardinals (5.1 yards). Hockenson checked in next at 5.0, matching Seattle’s D.K. Metcalf, Carolina’s Curtis Samuel and Atlanta tight end Hayden Hurst. The story added it was a big jump from previous weeks for Hockenson.

The Chargers need Austin Ekeler back. He will inject some life into this running game. But based on Anthony Lynn’s comments this week, I would not expect Ekeler back until Week 10 at the absolute earliest.

Related players: Justin Jackson, Joshua Kelley

Chargers running backs Kelley, Jackson and Troymaine Pope finished with just 47 yards on 18 carries. That is a 2.61 yards-per-carry average, the story said. Jackson and Kelley have not got it done for the Chargers, nor for fantasy owners, but it looks like the Bolts have a few more weeks to deal without Ekeler in the picture.

Coach Bruce Arians told reporters on Monday that Leonard Fournette is the team’s new “nickel” running back.

Related players: LeSean McCoy, Ke'Shawn Vaughn, Ronald Jones

The story said on Sunday against the Raiders, Fournette participated in 40 snaps, a 56-percent rate. Fournette rushed for 50 yards on 11 carries, and he added 47 receiving yards on six catches. McCoy, in contrast, was the only non-quarterback on either team who didn’t play at all. And, McCoy was the only running back on any team who dressed but didn’t play in any of the 13 Week 7 games played so far, the story pointed out. It's possible the Bucs look to trade McCoy. Vaughn is a similar back and could also serve as the nickel back.

This was the first chance for Bruce Arians and his players to talk about why Brown is coming on board, how a deep, talented offense will handle another option in the passing game, and how a team with real positive momentum can avoid any chemistry problems.

“It’s an insurance policy,” said Arians, who has seen Mike Evans limited by multiple injuries and Chris Godwin miss three games already this season. “When we don’t have Mike, when we don’t have Chris, why not have another Pro Bowl-caliber player that’s available that fits our cap and fits everything else. So why not? We have good players. You can’t have enough of them.”

Related players: Scotty Miller

There wasn't a lot of specifics about how Brown will work into games, but the story did say Miller, who leads the team with 365 receiving yards, would almost certainly see his role diminish with Brown’s addition. The story did add Brown's speed and body type (5-10, 185 pounds) is similar to Miller's (5-11, 174) so it's possible Brown just takes over the role of Miller.

Kyle Shanahan said that the 49ers were planning to rest Jerick McKinnon all along.

Related players: Jeff Wilson, JaMycal Hasty, Tevin Coleman

Would have been nice to know... McKinnon didn't get work until Wilson suffered what looked like a serious injury to his ankle. The reason the 9ers gave was it was due to his heavy workload in some games earlier this season. With Wilson's status up in the air, at best, for Week 8, McKinnon should be back in the picture along with the rookie Hasty. With Coleman on the verge of coming back, he could also enter the picture to make the backfield situation even more cloudy.

The Browns began bracing for life without three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Sunday in Cincinnati, and now they know they will experience it for the rest of 2020.

After Beckham had an MRI on his left knee Monday morning, he texted reporter Josina Anderson and revealed he suffered a season-ending torn anterior cruciate ligament early in the Browns' 37-34 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Related players: Rashard Higgins, Jarvis Landry, Donovan Peoples-Jones

A Browns spokesman later confirmed MRI results show Beckham has a torn ACL, which will require surgery. He will be placed on injured reserve and won't return this season, the story said. NFL reporter Adam Levitan said Higgins went out on routes on all 28 Baker Mayfield's dropbacks, so it looks like he could benefit the most with Beckham now out of the picture and is worth a pickup, especially for those hurting at WR. Landy was out on 27 of the dropbacks so he could also benefit. Peoples-Jones went out on 21 of the dropbacks and could enter the fantasy radar.

The Jaguars fear that WR Dede Westbrook tore his ACL in yesterday’s loss to the #Chargers, source said.

Related players: D.J. Chark, Laviska Shenault, Keelan Cole

He’ll have an MRI to confirm the injury that would knock him out for the season. Westbrook was already behind Chark, Shenault and Cole anyway and was a scratch most of the season.

Bucs RBs yesterday:

* Snaps 40-31 Leonard Fournette
* Carries 13-11 Ronald Jones
* Targets 7-2 Fournette

Those who follow the team say Fournette is fully recovered from his ankle injury and perhaps that's starting to show in the workload. Fournette really made is mark in the passing game catching six of his seven targets. Fournette could be a PPR option thanks to that kind of usage in the passing game.

Touches for DET RBs yesterday:

* D'Andre Swift 13 (28 snaps)
* Adrian Peterson 12 (19 snaps)
* Kerryon Johnson 0 (14 snaps)

It looks like Swift has made the climb to the top in terms of RB usage for the Lions. While Peterson ran 11 times to Swift's 9, Swift continue to lead the way in the passing game collecting four catches this past week. He's a safer option in PPR formats, but seems to be trending up in terms of overall usage.

Seahawks’ RB Chris Carson has a “midfoot sprain,” per Pete Carroll.

Related players: Carlos Hyde, Travis Homer, Rashaad Penny, DeeJay Dallas

Carson will have an MRI to determine the extent of the injury and how much time he could miss, Schefter said. If Carson can't go, Hyde would get the start and likely a big workload in a tough matchup against the 49ers. Depending if Carson misses time and how much, guys like Homer and Dallas could also see work. Those who follow the team also seem to indicate they are saving Penny for an injury situation so it's possible if it's long term Penny could enter the picture. But for right now, Hyde is the guy to own.

Jets RB snaps (out of 57)
La'Mical Perine 40 (70 percent)
Frank Gore 16 (28)

The Jets said entering into this week they wanted to get Perine more work and from a snap standpoint he was on the field more, although the touches were more of a split. It's good news for owners of Perine hoping for a boost at RB. He'll be tough to trust in lineups because it is the Jets afterall, but also because the situation of the game could dictate his workload, as the team pointed out a few weeks ago. Still, he seems to be trending upward.

Cowboys QB Andy Dalton in NFL's concussion protocol.

Related players: Ben DiNucci

Rapoport said Dalton is feeling better but his status for Week 8 is very much in question. Rapoport added it's going to be up to the independent doctors to make the call on Dalton and we likely won't know more until later in the week. The Cowboys play the Eagles on Sunday night in Week 8 so those looking to play Dalton in fantasy lineups will need a backup plan. DiNucci is next up but it would be even more of a downgrade for Cowboy playmakers and their owners.

X-rays on Cardinals’ RB Kenyan Drake’s ankle at the stadium last night were negative, per source.

Related players: Chase Edmonds

Schefter went on to say Drake will have an MRI Monday to determine extent of injury and how much time he could miss. The Cards have a bye in Week 8 and then come back to play the Dolphins in Week 9. Edmonds again filled in nicely with Drake out of the picture. If Edmonds was recently dropped to your wire, you should make a play for him this week.

Seahawks RB Chris Carson is questionable to return with a foot injury.

Carson has five carries for 34 yards and one catch for seven yards before exiting in the second quarter. Carlos Hyde has picked up the slack with five carries for 37 yards and a touchdown. We should get more word soon with the game at halftime. Hopefully it’s not a serious injury.

The 49ers believe RB Jeff Wilson suffered a high ankle sprain during Sunday's win over the Patriots.

A very unfortunate way for Wilson's fine day to end after he rushed for 112 yards and three touchdowns, helping San Francisco dominate New England, 33-6. This comes just a few days after the team placed Raheem Mostert on injured reserve as well. JaMycal Hasty ended up with some of the cleanup work, finishing with nine carries for 57 yards, while Jerick McKinnon saw three carries for -1 yard. The 49ers running game continues to be a major weekly puzzle heading into a big divisional showdown with the Seahawks in Week 8.

Jaguars WR Dede Westbrook was carted off the field during the second half against the Chargers with a significant leg injury.

Westbrook had bounced around as either injured or inactive throughout the season but returned as a kick and punt returner for the Jaguars. The injury looked very bad live. Very unfortunate for Westbrook, even as he was working back in a limited role for the team.

After a miserable day that included three interceptions and just 98 passing yards, the Patriots have benched QB Cam Newton in favor of Jarrett Stidham.

The 49ers rattled Newton all day and it was easily the worst performance of the season for Newton as the Patriots are headed toward a 2-4 start, being down 33-6.

49ers WR Deebo Samuel suffered an apparent injury during the second half against the Patriots.

Samuel was injured on a toss play during the 49ers' field goal drive to put the team up 33-6. Hopefully it's not serious, but probably safe to say his day is done with the 49ers pretty much having this game locked up.

49ers RB Jeff Wilson was carted off the field with an injury after scoring his third touchdown against the Patriots.

Wilson was having himself a day. He rushed for 112 yards on 17 carries and three touchdowns, but suffered the injury during the third touchdown run. The 49ers are already banged up at the running back position. Raheem Mostert was placed on injured reserve this week. The 49ers likely will turn back to Jerick McKinnon and JaMycal Hasty in the backfield.

Broncos RB Phillip Lindsay left Sunday's game against the Chiefs with a concussion and has been ruled out for the rest of the game.

Lindsay was having a strong day to this point with nine carries for 79 yards, but his day is unfortunately done. Melvin Gordon will see more work as a result, but the Broncos are likely going to be passing more, down 15 in the third quarter.

Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr. is going to have an MRI Monday but early indications are that he suffered a major knee injury.

Beckham left Sunday's win over the Bengals early and did not record a catch. This is brutal news for a Browns team that moved to 5-2 and is having their best season in years. Fortunately, the Browns found production from a number of players, including a pair of rookies in TE Hunter Bryant (4-56-2) and WR Donovan Peoples-Jones (3-56-1, including the game-winner with 11 seconds left). Rashard Higgins caught six passes for 110 yards. Fortunately, the Browns schedule is still fairly favorable over the next few weeks before a stretch in December and January that includes the Titans, Ravens and Steelers (sandwiching back-to-back games against the Giants and Jets in Weeks 15 and 16). Cleveland hosts Las Vegas next week.

Saints WR Marquez Callaway left Sunday's game against the Panthers with an apparent ankle injury.

The wide receivers are dropping like flies in New Orleans. This is very unfortunate for a young player who was shining today in the absence of Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders. He had eight catches for 75 yards before exiting. It puts a lot of pressure on Tre'Quan Smith and Dionte Harris on the outside.

Cowboys QB Andy Dalton left Sunday's game against Washington after taking a shot to the head.

Rookie Ben DiNucci is now in for the Cowboys. Washington LB Jon Bostic was ejected for the hit. The season just gets worse for the Cowboys in what was already a miserable day in Washington. QB Garrett Gilbert was signed to the active roster but was inactive for today. We'll keep an eye on Dalton in the coming days. For now, Dallas' offense takes a major hit.

Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr left Sunday's game against the Bengals with a knee injury and will not return.

Beckham was injured during a Baker Mayfield interception to Darius Phillips. OL JC Tretter was also injured on the same play. Beckham was initially ruled questionable but now has been ruled out for the rest of the game. Beckham finished with zero catches.

Saints WR Michael Thomas has a Grade 1 hamstring strain and will miss 1-2 weeks.

It’s pretty likely now that Thomas will not play next week against the Chicago Bears. This means New Orleans will likely have another game next week without Thomas or Emmanuel Sanders, with Sanders recovering from COVID-19. Thomas was near a return from the ankle injury suffered in Week 1 but suffered the hamstring injury earlier this week in practice. Thomas, and perhaps Sanders, could be back for a huge Week 9 rematch with the Buccaneers.

There were no new positive cases for the Raiders or the Saints Sunday morning, meaning their games against the Buccaneers and Panthers, respectively, are on for Sunday.

Raiders OT Trent Brown and Saints WR Emmanuel Sanders tested positive this week, but the rest of the teams were able to steer clear of it. The Raiders took the precautionary measure of sending their entire offensive line home earlier this week but they all (with the obvious exception of Brown) look like they’re ready to go against Tampa. The Saints will be without both Sanders and Michael Thomas (ankle/hamstring) against Carolina.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports Jaguars QB Gardner Minshew could be in danger of being benched if his struggles continue.

Rapoport says that benching could come as soon as today against the Chargers. Mike Glennon is Minshew’s backup. Minshew has four fumbles and five interceptions during the Jaguars’ five-game losing streak. Head coach Doug Marrone even said he’d be naive to think it’s not a possibility that the team switches quarterbacks. The Jaguars have their bye next week so they’ll certainly be closely evaluating over the next few days.

Jets WR Jamison Crowder is not expected to play Sunday against the Bills.

This isn’t surprising. Crowder was downgraded to doubtful Saturday and the Jets activated rookie WR Denzel Mims from injured reserve. Mims will be making his NFL debut Sunday. The Bills D/ST will be heavily owned in fantasy this week, even with Sam Darnold returning to the lineup.

Chargers RB Justin Jackson (knee) is expected to play Sunday against the Jaguars.

Jackson returned to practice in full on Friday, which was a good sign for his Sunday availability. The bye week certainly helped him recover a bit. It will be interesting to watch the backfield split between he and Joshua Kelley against Jacksonville. In our half PPR ranks, Jackson is No. 23 and Kelley is No. 26 for running backs.

Falcons WR Julio Jones, limited in practice with a hamstring injury, is expected to play Sunday against the Lions.

Jones was limited throughout the week but certainly showed no signs of wear and tear last week against the Vikings. He’ll look to do the same today against Detroit. He and Calvin Ridley are both top four receiver options this week.

Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins, who was listed as questionable with an ankle injury, is expected to play Sunday night against the Cardinals.

Schefter notes this is becoming a weekly occurrence of Hopkins being on the injury report and eventually playing. It’s a good matchup as Seattle is coming off their bye with one of the worst pass defenses in the league. In our half PPR rankings, only Davante Adams is ranked higher than Hopkins.

Jets WR Jamison Crowder (groin) has been downgraded to doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Bills.

The Jets also activated rookie Denzel Mims off injured reserve, a good sign Crowder will not play. It will be Mims’ NFL debut after dealing with hamstring issues. Injuries have resulted in Crowder cooling off after a strong first three games he played with three 100-yard games.

Bills TE Dawson Knox tested positive for COVID-19 and will not play Sunday against the Jets.

The Bills also placed TEs Lee Smith, Tommy Sweeny and practice squad TE Nate Becker on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Tyler Kroft was actually away from the team for the birth of his daughter. Kroft will now take over for the time being as the starter while Knox recovers. Kroft is our No. 27 tight end for the week.

The Raiders and Saints did not have any new positive cases from Friday’s round of COVID testing.

The Raiders-Buccaneers and Saints-Panthers games are both on track to be played Sunday. Vegas had the biggest scare after all five starting offensive linemen were sent home earlier this week, but things are trending back in the right direction. A reminder that this game is now a 4:05 kickoff after originally being the Sunday night game (Seahawks-Cardinals is now in that spot). Saints-Panthers is an early kickoff and a friendly reminder that neither Michael Thomas (ankle, hamstring) or Emmanuel Sanders (COVID-19) will play in that game.

Eagles WR DeSean Jackson suffered a non-displaced fracture in his ankle and is expected to miss 6-8 weeks.

It’s a similar injury to the one suffered by TE Dallas Goedert, who has already missed a few weeks and is not expected back until after the Eagles bye in Week 9. This timeframe puts Jackson on track to return somewhere between Weeks 13 and 15, right at the start of the fantasy playoffs. But at this point, it will certainly be tough to trust DJax during that run, especially with the Eagles having Travis Fulgham playing well and other receivers, including Jalen Raegor, should also be back by then. Jackson will be entering the final year of his contract with the Eagles in 2021 (provided the team decides to keep him).

Free agent WR Antonio Brown has agreed to a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The earliest he can play is Week 9.

This is a pretty good landing spot for Brown, who has familiarity with Tom Brady from their day(s) in New England. In Brown's one game for the Patriots, Brady peppered him with eight targets on 35% of the snaps. As long as he's healthy, he'll be startable in fantasy.

His arrival will certainly impact Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, though through six games, 17.3 targets per game have gone to players other than Evans, Godwin, Rob Gronkowski and Ronald Jones. Some of that has to do with Godwin's injury, which cost him three games, but if the targets get concentrated to those five players--Godwin, Evans, Brown, Gronk and Jones--there is enough work to go around, provided that Brown doesn't come in and get 10+ targets per game.

Given Evans' drop in targets when Godwin is healthy (from 25.0% to 10.8%), I'd say that Godwin is a safer bet to hold his usage than Evans is. As we've learned, Brown's behavior is a major question mark, and there's no guarantee that he'll be on the roster in a month. - John Paulsen

Rams head coach Sean McVay told reporters that RB Darrell Henderson is expected to play Monday night against the Chicago Bears.

Henderson has been the team's best back in 2020 and would be a significant loss. The Bears are much more lenient in the run game than pass, so Henderson should be able to produce.

Rams head coach Sean McVay told reporters that TE Tyler Higbee is expected to play Monday night against the Chicago Bears.

McVay's confidence with one more day to practice is a good sign for Higbee. Saturday's injury report will give better clarification.

Patriots WR Julian Edelman is questionable for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers, according to Doug Kyed of NESN.

Edelman felt well enough to practice this week as opposed to his typical maintenance days. The Patriots need their receiving options to show up after posting duds last week. Edelman is a PPR mainstay and should be considered a WR3 this week.

Jets kicker Sam Ficken is doubtful to play Sunday against the Buffalo Bills, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News. Sergio Castillo would kick in place of Ficken if he misses Sunday.

Ficken is ranked 28th of 28 kicking options this week at 4for4, so feel free to look elsewhere for kicking help in fantasy.

Jets WR Jamison Crowder is questionable for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills, according to Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News.

Sam Darnold is also expected to play after multiple weeks off, so the Jets could show a little life on offense this week. Crowder is a must-play in all formats because of his robust target volume.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid told reporters Friday that Le'Veon Bell could play Sunday against the Denver Broncos. “I’m going to try to visit with him here — I was waiting until after this practice, just to see where we were at with him [and] where his comfort level was with what we’re doing,” said Reid. “But it looks like he’s picking things up well, so I think there’s a chance he could get a couple of snaps in there.”

Related Players: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Darrel Williams

Bell appears to be picking up the Chiefs offense fairly quickly and could play a similar role as Darrel Williams has through six games. This could be the last week that CEH has RB1 value, or it could be that Bell simply replaces Williams in the pecking order.

Cardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins is questionable to play Week 7 against the Seattle Seahawks, according to Curtis Crabtree of Sports Radio KJR.

Hopkins had a long catch and run Monday night, so it is more likely than not that he plays. No surprise to see him carrying an injury designation on a short week.

Saints WR Michael Thomas will not play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, according to Andrew Siciliano of the NFL Network.

Related Players: Tre'Quan Smith, Deonte Harris

The late week hamstring injury is what cast the most doubt over his availability for Sunday. Here's hoping for Week 8.

Raiders WR Bryan Edwards will not play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to Adam Caplan of the NFL Network.

Edwards did not practice all week and was never a threat to play Week 7.

Buccaneers WR Mike Evans will play Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders, according to the team's Friday injury report.

The ankle has limited his yard output, but Evans has been a red zone monster for the Bucs. A healthy Evans gives Tom Brady a full arsenal of receivers for Week 7.

Packers TE Robert Tonyan is questionable for Week 7's game against the Houston Texans with an ankle injury, according to the team.

Tonyan's availability is even more important with Aaron Jones nursing a calf injury sustained on Thursday. Tonyan would be a TE1 against the Texans swiss cheese defense.

Chargers WR Keenan Allen practiced in full Friday and will play Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to Fernando Ramirez of Sports Illustrated.

Allen left their Week 5 game with what ended up being back spasms. The bye week and rest have helped make the star receiver available for Week 7. Fire him up as a WR1 against a poor Jacksonville defense.

Broncos WR K.J. Hamler will play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Troy Renck of ABC 7 Denver.

Hamler is another important offensive weapon returning for Drew Lock and the Broncos passing attack. While he is not a receiver to start in fantasy, his inclusion in the offense is worth monitoring.

Broncos TE Noah Fant will play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Troy Renck of ABC 7 Denver.

Drew Lock gets his athletic tight end back in time to face a Chiefs defense short two defensive starters. Fant is in the conversation as a back-end TE1 this week.

In his Friday mailbag, Tim Twentyman of the Detroit Lions was asked about the team's approach to the running back situation. "Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said this week Adrian Peterson will continue to get the first set of carries," said Twentyman. "D'Andre Swift will be mixed in early on too. It sounds like Kerryon Johnson has solidified a role on third down. It's really going to depend on the hot hand early in terms of carries between Peterson and Swift as the games moves forward."

"That being said, Swift will still play a big role in the passing game. He is the team's second-leading receiver with 16 catches."

Swift and Peterson saw the majority of work for the Lions backfield in Week 6, and it appears that will not change. Swift finally broke out last week, but as long as A.P. is healthy, the two will continue to have similar workloads.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid ruled out WR Sammy Watkins for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, according to Adam Teicher of ESPN.

Related Players: Demarcus Robinson, Byron Pringle, Mecole Hardman

Watkins will miss a second straight game, giving way to Robinson, Pringle, and Hardman in a game expected to face wintry conditions.

Saints WR Emmanuel Sanders will not play Sunday after being placed on the Reserve-COVID-19 list, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. "Issue is he practiced Thursday and now must quarantine," tweeted Schefter.

Bad news for a Saints offense that may also be down Michael Thomas. Tre'Quan Smith and Deonte Harris are the biggest benefactors heading into Week 7.

Packers RB Aaron Jones told reporters that he felt his calf get tight during practice yesterday (Thursday). He did not practice Friday but he feels "confident I can play" but added that he knows "our doctors and trainers have the players' best interests in mind."

Related Players: Jamaal Williams, Tyler Ervin, A.J. Dillon

Jones is as important to the Packers offense as any player not named Aaron Rodgers. His absence would make the Packers offense a lot less exciting to utilize despite a juicy matchup against the Houston Texans.

Browns RB Kareem Hunt practiced in full Friday and will play Sunday, according to Adam Caplan of the NFL Network.

Hunt is an auto-play as a dual threat running back and is firmly entrenched as a top 20 option in Week 7.

Jaguars kicker Josh Lambo will play Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to Michael DiRocco of ESPN.

Lambo not only stabilizes the Jaguars kicking situation, but he gets a revenge game against the team that cut him in 2017.

Jaguars TE Tyler Eifert will not play Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to John Oehser of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Related Player: James O'Shaughnessy

The Jaguars offense has shied away from targeting the tight end position, and when they have been, it has been closer to a 50/50 split. Eifert was not on the fantasy radar for Week 7.

Bills TE Dawson Knox will not play Sunday against the New York Jets, according to the team's Friday injury report.

Related Player: Tyler Kroft

Knox has been fantasy-irrelevant, and the position itself is not targeted often by Josh Allen. Kroft is a desperation play in Knox's place.

Bills WR John Brown will not play Sunday against the New York Jets, according to the team's Friday injury report.

Related Players: Gabriel Davis, Cole Beasley

Brown's absence means Gabriel Davis will get an opportunity to play outside. The Bills should be fine without their speedy veteran receiver.

Panthers WR Curtis Samuel is questionable for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints, according to Steve Reed of the Associated Press.

Samuel has been a non-factor for the Panthers offense this season and remains no better than fourth on the team's receiving pecking order.

Steelers WR Diontae Johnson will play Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, according to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Johnson will join a crowded receiving group that continues to be productive when called upon. Johnson logged the most snaps of any Pittsburgh receiver before a hard hit took him out of action for a week-plus, but Chase Claypool has been the production leader as of late. Johnson falls into WR2/3 territory against Tennessee.

Washington Football Team WR Antonio Gandy-Golden will not play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.

Terry McLaurin is going to see 99% of receiver targets this week, isn't he?

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said QB Baker Mayfield "is not 100 percent, but he's pushing through it," according to Tom Withers of the Associated Press. Said QB has had a strong week of practice.

Mayfield has been Jekyll and Hyde so far in 2020, and his recent chest injury has been an important contributor to the Hyde portion. Until Mayfield is 100%, it is difficult to trust him to be a consistent contributor in fantasy.

Browns TE Austin Hooper will not play Sunday after having an appendectomy, according to Tom Withers of the Associated Press and other sources.

Related Players: David Njoku, Harrison Bryant

Hooper had been on a run of three games with five catches, so his loss is fairly important for a struggling Browns offense. Look for David Njoku and Harrison Bryant to split Hooper's workload this week.

Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians said RB Leonard Fournette is good to go Sunday and will "reassume his role," according to Scott Smith of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Related Player: Ronald Jones

If Fournette is back to his usual role, Ronald Jones is in for a decent drop in production. If the two backs are closer to a 50/50 split, neither would have high upside Sunday but are worth playing.

Eagles WR Jalen Reagor had his thumb cast removed and is catching passes, according to John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia. His original timeline for return was mid-November after the Eagles' bye.

A door closes, but a window opens for the Eagles receiving corps. DeSean Jackson will miss at least one month with a high ankle sprain, so a return from Reagor ahead of schedule is more than welcomed by the team and fantasy players.

Eagles WR DeSean Jackson will be out indefinitely with an ankle injury, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Jackson's MRI Friday confirmed his ankle injury. The Eagles will place Jackson on Injured Reserve.

Related Players: Travis Fulgham, Greg Ward, Jalen Reagor

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor told reporters that RB Joe Mixon will not play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Related Player: Giovani Bernard

Mixon's rollercoaster season continues with the foot ailment. Giovani Bernard will start and see majority of the running back touches for Cincinnati Sunday.

Jets QB Sam Darnold will start Sunday against the Buffalo Bills barring a setback at practice, a source told Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network.

Darnold gets a stiff test with a Bills defense that was run over by the Chiefs offense in Week 6. Darnold would be a volatile QB2 if he starts.

Bengals RB Joe Mixon is not practicing Friday, according to Tyler Dragon of The Enquirer. Mixon has not practiced all week.

Related Player: Giovani Bernard

Mixon could be getting the veteran treatment for the week, but his status for Sunday's game against the Browns will be confirmed Friday afternoon.

Texans interim head coach Romeo Crennel told reporters Friday that TE Jordan Akins is not ready to return from his ankle injury. "We are working with him and he's working to get back. He's not quite ready to get back yet," said Crennel.

Related Player: Darren Fells

Safe to say Akins is out for Week 7. It will be interesting to see how Akins fits into the offense when he returns since Darren Fells has been very productive in his stead. After a promising start to his 2020 season, Akins has a steep hill to climb to show he is fantasy-relevant in his return.

The Las Vegas Raiders had zero positive results from the latest round of COVID-19 tests, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. The Raiders-Buccaneers game is still scheduled to be played, but is also not guaranteed at this point.

Eagles WR DeSean Jackson is set to have an MRI on his injured ankle, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. It is feared to be a high ankle sprain and the MRI will help determine the severity of the injury.

Related Players: Jalen Reagor, Greg Ward, Travis Fulgham

It is a shame to see Jackson suffer another injury in 2020. It was visible in his reaction last night that the injuries are frustrating for the receiver. Prior to his injury on a punt return, Jackson accumulated three catches for 34 yards and one rushing attempt for another 12. Look for Jackson to be out several weeks.