December 2020 4for4 Player News Articles

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Cole Beasley missed practice on Thursday.

Beasley remains sidelined at practice and is expected to miss Week 17's contest against the Miami Dolphins. The Bills will be hoping to get John Brown back for Week 17's contest, or they may be forced to start rookie Gabriel Davis and Andre Roberts beside Stefon Diggs. Diggs should get all the work he can handle but it would be nice to have Brown active to keep the defense from constantly putting bracket coverage on the Bills star receiver. At this point, Beasley is week-to-week, which means he may be in danger of missing the Bills wildcard round matchup as well. Diggs is our fifth ranked receiver for Week 17.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill missed Thursday's practice with a hamstring injury.

There is a strong likelihood that the Chiefs play it safe and hold their star receiver out of Week 17's contest against the Chargers. Kansas City has nothing to play for with the AFC locked up and has already announced that Patrick Mahomes will be sitting out. Tyreek is set up to be a DFS fade even if he is active, as he will likely see his snaps scaled back significantly. He will also have to deal with Chad Henne at quarterback.

Washington quarterback Alex Smith returned to practice on Thursday.

Washington held Smith out of practice on Wednesday, but that was likely a case of managing his reps in hopes of keeping him healthy for a potential playoff run. Washington just needs to win on Sunday to make the postseason but will be facing an Eagles team with something to prove. Smith should, barring any setbacks, be cleared to start Week 17 and has a plus matchup against one of the softer cornerback groups in the league.

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen has been placed on the reserve/COVID list.

There is no word yet on if Allen was a close contact, or contracted the virus himself, but either way, his season is officially over. Allen finishes the season as the WR13 in total fantasy points, and the WR14 in fantasy points per game. Mike Williams, Tyron Johnson, and Jalen Guyton should all see an increase in snaps with Allen sidelined. Williams is currently our 36th ranked receiver for Week 17, Johnson is our 39th.

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Rashard Higgins has been activated from the reserve/COVID list.

Higgins landed on the reserve/COVID list along with fellow receivers Jarvis Landry and Donovan Peoples-Jones due to being close contacts of linebacker B.J. Goodson. He will be active for a must-win contest for the Browns and is our 44th ranked receiver for Week 17. Higgins was the WR14 from Week 13 to Week 15.

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry has been activated from the reserve COVID list.

Landry landed on the reserve/COVID list along with most of the other wide receivers on the roster due to being a close contact of linebacker B.J. Goodson. He has returned enough negative tests to be cleared from the protocol and is poised for a strong outing against a Steelers team that may not be playing all out. Landry is currently our 33rd ranked receiver for Week 17.

According to Tom Pelissero on Twitter, Cleveland Browns tight end Harrison Bryant tested positive for COVID-19 and has been placed on the reserve/COVID list.

Bryant has tested positive for the coronavirus and will miss Week 17. Bryant had some impressive flashes in game action and has impressed the Browns in practice all season. Bryant should see his role grow in year two, and may even cause the Browns to move on from David Njoku this offseason. Bryant finishes the year with 24 receptions for 238 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Austin Hooper should see a few more pass routes with Bryant sidelined and is our TE18 for Week 17.

According to Tim Twentyman on Twitter, Detroit Lions head coach Darell Bevell confirmed that wide receiver Kenny Golladay will miss Week 17.

Golladay is a WR1 level producer when healthy, unfortunately for his 2020 fantasy managers, availability was a major issue for Golladay this season. With a new contact (hopefully) in tow to open 2021, Golladay should be healthy and rearing to go for next season. He could come at a relative value in early redraft league draft rooms and could provide even more value if Detroit decides to add one of the talented receivers set to enter the league in the 2021 NFL Draft. Golladay will finish the season with just five games played, recording 20 receptions, 338 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.

Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey will not play Week 17.

McCaffrey will be shut down for the year in what has been a lost season for the star running back. McCaffrey only appeared in three games this season due to a variety of injuries, but was effective when on the field. Mike Davis is also expected to miss Week 17, leaving Carolina very shorthanded at running back. McCaffrey will return as an elite RB1 in fantasy leagues next season.

Vikings running back Alexander Mattison is practicing Wednesday after going through concussion protocol last week.

Dalvin Cook is set to miss Week 17 following the death of his father, so this news sets Mattison up to start in a great matchup against the Lions' terrible defense. Mike Boone and Ameer Abudallah will probably mix in in some capacity, but Mattison will be an interesting DFS play given his projected workload and the soft matchup.

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid announced Wednesday that the team will rest Patrick Mahomes in Week 17 and start Chad Henne at quarterback Sunday against the Chargers.

The Chiefs have already locked up the top seed in the AFC so it wouldn't be surprising if other starters besides Mahomes end up sitting or having reduced workloads in Week 17. This news is a great example of why redraft fantasy seasons should end in Week 16.

The Chargers are expected to hold wide receiver Keenan Allen out of their season finale Sunday against the Chiefs as he recovers from a lingering hamstring issue.

The Chargers have nothing to play for save draft position in Week 17 so it makes sense to hold Allen out and ensure he can fully recover from the hamstring issue that's bothered him for several weeks now. Allen was a bankable WR1 with Justin Herbert under center and should be drafted as such in 2021.

Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray practiced Wednesday and told reporters he will be "good" for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Murray left late in Week 16 after injuring his leg but all of the reports out of Arizona have suggested it is something he can play through, especially with the Cardinals fighting for their playoff lives in Week 17. The fact that Murray is practicing on Wednesday confirm those suggestions and we should expect Murray under center against the shorthanded Rams come Sunday.

Lions starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is not practicing Wednesday due to a sprained ankle.

Stafford has already been playing through rib and thumb ailments, so it is possible the Lions simply decide he's had enough this season and hold him out of Week 17. The Lions will start Chase Daniel under center if Stafford does end up sitting. There are some questions about Stafford's future in Detroit with a new General Manager and Head Coach expected this offseason. Stafford has two years left on his contract and is 33 years old.

Vikings running back Dalvin Cook will miss Week 17 due to a family emergency.

Cook ends 2020 with another strong season in the books, accumulating over 1,900 total yards and 17 total touchdowns on one of the heaviest workloads in the league. Alexander Mattison will start Week 17 for the Vikings if he can get through concussion protocol before the weekend. Cook will return as a lock RB1 in 2021 fantasy drafts.

Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp tested positive for COVID-19 and has been placed on the Reserve/COVID list. He will miss Week 17.

Kupp's placement on the COVID list is due to an actual positive test rather than close contact so he is already ruled out for the Rams' big Week 17 matchup with Arizona. The Rams will be missing Kupp, Jared Goff, and possibly their top two running backs against the Cardinals. Josh Reynolds and Robert Woods will try to pick up the slack in the Ram passing game.

Jaguars Head Coach Doug Marrone announced that running back James Robinson will sit out Week 17 with his ankle injury.

Robinson had a spectacular rookie season. Signed to the Jaguars as an undrafted free agent, Robinson racked up over 1,400 total yards and ten touchdowns in 14 games. Robinson's emergence was one of the great surprises of the fantasy season, and his arrow is pointing up for 2021 with Trevor Lawrence expected to take over under center in Jacksonville next season.

In Buffalo, Sean McDermott is holding his cards close to the vest. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday afternoon, McDermott indicated he knows what he’s going to do for Sunday’s game against the Dolphins [as far as resting starters]. But he’s not saying.

“I’m going to keep that plan internal because I think that’s what’s best for us,” McDermott said, via Chris Brown of the Bills’ official website.

Related players: Josh Allen, Stefon Diggs

The Chiefs clinched the top seed and will rest some starters while the Steelers announced Ben Roethlisberger won't play in Week 17. The Bills are currently the AFC’s No. 2 seed, though they could fall to No. 3 if the Steelers beat the Browns and Buffalo loses to Miami.

Trading Jared Goff would trigger a cap charge of $22.2 million for the Rams in 2021, although that’s far lower than his $34.625 million cap number for next year.

The bigger challenge when trading him comes to finding his next destination. Goff has a fully-guaranteed 2021 salary in the amount of $25.325 million, a fully-guaranteed 2021 roster bonus of $2.5 million, and a fully-guaranteed 2022 roster bonus of $15.5 million. Which other team would take on that kind of financial commitment, especially when the guarantees contain no offset language?

Still, the struggles of Goff and Carson Wentz highlight the question of whether teams who find competent quarterbacks at the top of the draft should blindly extend them with big-money second contracts, the story. The story also pointed out the Bucs and Titans surely don’t regret passing on paying Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota; the Rams and Eagles surely regret giving out those massive second contracts.

Bills HC Sean McDermott said WR Cole Beasley is "week-to-week."

Related players: Gabriel Davis, John Brown, Isaiah McKenzie

Beasley looked like he was trying to plant his left foot at the end of a route, but his leg looked to give out. He was able to walk off the field, but the injury designation may mean Beasley’s status for the wildcard playoff game in two weeks could be in a question. Just a week ago, the Bills were looking pretty stacked at WR with Brown scheduled to come back, but Brown was placed on the COVID list and with Beasley's status in question, it means Stefon Diggs and Davis could be the team's top-two WRs. McKenzie could see increased time in Week 17 at least.

In what might be Kyle Rudolph’s last season with the Vikings, the tight end will not be able to play in Week 17.

Minnesota announced on Tuesday that it placed Rudolph on IR. The Vikings still have Irv Smith Jr., Tyler Conklin and Hale Hentges at the tight end position, barring any of those three suffering injuries.

With Smith coming on as the team's top TE target, Rudolph may be out in 2021. Smith had a huge game on Christmas Day, posting a 6-53-2 line. For the season he has 28 catches for 335 yards and five TDs, but three of those TDs and 153 yards have come over the last three weeks.

The Buccaneers may have their starting running back for Week 17, as the club has activated Ronald Jones from the reserve/COVID-19 list.

Related players: Leonard Fournette

Jones has missed Tampa Bay’s last two games since going on the list on Dec. 16. Jones also is returning from a broken pinky suffered in the club’s Week 14 win over the Vikings. He had surgery to insert a pin in the finger earlier this month. As of now, the Bucs say they plan on playing their starters in Week 17, but there is no official word if Jones will be among those playing.

"I would imagine [Cam Newton will start]. We're going through that right now. We'll see," said HC Bill Belichick.

Related players: Jarrett Stidham

Belichick was also asked what Newton did well last night, with him saying, "I thought he did what we asked him to do." It doesn't appear the Pats are going to give Stidham much more of a chance going forward. Even being eliminated from the playoffs, the team continues to go with Newton despite him being pulled several times over the last few weeks.

Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp has been placed on the league’s COVID-19 reserve list.

Related players: Josh Reynolds, Van Jefferson

Players are placed on COVID-19 reserve if they test positive or if they have close contact with someone who tested positive. It is unknown whether Kupp tested positive or is classified as a close contact. Kupp is the Rams’ leader this season with 92 catches and 974 yards. If he can’t be activated in time for Sunday’s game against the Cardinals, that would be a major blow to the Rams’ hopes, the story went on to say. It could mean Reynolds and Jefferson see more snaps and action, but with Jared Goff out, the passing game is likely going to be limited for the Rams.

Darrell Henderson suffered a high ankle sprain and will be put on injured reserve. Henderson had 49 rushing yards, including a 38-yard touchdown run, against the Cardinals in the Rams’ 38-28 win in Week 13.

Cam Akers, who is also dealing with a high ankle sprain, did not play in Week 16 in the Rams’ 20-9 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. His status is a little more optimistic.

Related players: Malcolm Brown

The Rams say Akers has made progress and the team thinks there is a chance he can play in Week 17. Either way, Brown should see more action and could end up being the starter if both backs are out.

Doug Pederson said Monday that rookie quarterback Jalen Hurts will start the season finale against Washington, which is meaningless for the Eagles but will make Washington the NFC East champion if the visitors win.

“Definitely want to continue to evaluate, not only him but the rest of the team, and where we are moving forward,” Pederson said.

Related players: Carson Wentz

Hurts wasn't great in Week 16, a loss to a Dallas and a defense that has struggled at times this year. But the Eagles want to continue to get a look at Hurts, as has been reported since he took over the starting job. There will be lots of decisions to make this offseason in Philly, from QB to coach to GM.

Steelers Mike Tomlin just announced in his press conference that Mason Rudolph will start in place of Ben Roethlisberger against the Browns on Sunday.

The Steelers don't have a lot to play for in Week 17, and even a loss would keep them as a three-seed, while still hosting a playoff game. The Steelers are a game behind the Bills but the Bills won head to head and obviously hold the tiebreaker as a result.

Tua Tagovailoa, as HC Brian Flores said last night, will start in Week 17 at Buffalo.

“Tua is a resilient kid,” Flores said Saturday night. “He’s a tough-minded kid. He’s happy that ‘Fitzy’ went in there and we won the game because he is a selfless, team-first guy. That’s why he is here. We’re always going to do what’s best for the team and try to help the team win.”

Related players: Ryan Fitzpatrick

Flores called Fitz the team's relief pitcher, indicating he could come in later in games like a closer in baseball. While overall it's not an ideal situation, fantasy football or not, it does seem to be working in the present for Miami. It looks like Tua will start in Week 17, but with a chance he could get pulled in the game, he's obviously not a safe play.

A.J. Dillon should have a bigger role in Green Bay's backfield next year since Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams are set to be free agents after this season. The Packers (12-3) already gave lucrative extensions to defensive tackle Kenny Clark and offensive tackle David Bakhtiari, so it's hard to imagine they'll be able to keep both Jones and Williams.

The story added Dillon could even see more time during the Packers playoff run, which could hurt the fantasy value of Jones and Williams, perhaps especially Williams who is dealing with an injury but has been the change of pace back to Jones most of this season. It seems like there is a good chance one of Jones or Williams will be playing somewhere else next season, giving Dillon a much bigger role in 2021 with the Pack.

Vic Fangio said that Jerry Jeudy has “proven he has good hands” over the course of the season and that Sunday’s game can spur him to do more on the mental side to avoid dropping passes in the future.

“Yes, I do think he’s got the right make-up,” Fangio said, via Ryan O’Halloran of the Denver Post. “When I [said] it’s a ‘defining moment,’ sometimes a guy drops a pass here and there, but he had a few of them and I think he’ll learn a lot from that and that the focus needs to be on catching the ball before anything else happens, regardless of whether you’re in traffic or not. I think he’ll come out a better receiver for this.”

Jeudy called his five drops in Sunday’s loss to the Chargers “unacceptable” and Fangio said that the game “could be a defining moment” in the first-round pick’s career. But as you can see above, he altered his comments a bit and he and the team still stands behind him. As the story added, with only one game left this season, it likely won't be enough time to get a real feel for Jeudy going into next season.

Bills have activated WR John Brown from IR, but have put Brown, practice squad S Josh Thomas and RB Christian Wade on Res/COVID list.

The above players have been defined as close contacts with RB T.J. Yeldon, who was placed on Res/COVID list Sunday. Brown was reportedly close a return this week, but will now need to test negative in order to go Week 17. It's possible the Bills just holds out Brown until the first week of the playoffs, especially if there is nothing to play for in Week 17.

As expected, Bengals RB Joe Mixon will not play this week.

Mixon hasn't played since Week 6 against Indy, dealing with a foot injury. While he didn't light up the fantasy scoreboard most weeks, he did average 19 carries a game. He averaged 71 rushing yards a game but most of that came from a 151-yard performance against the Jags. His second highest rushing total was 69 yards in Week 1. He averaged 3.5 catches a game as well, which came with QB Joe Burrow under center. It will be tough to trust Mixon in 2021 but with Burrow back and the volume Mixon got this season, he'll likely be a highly-desired fantasy pick once again next summer.

HC Kliff Kingsbury is "hopeful" QB Kyler Murray (leg) will play against the Rams.

Murray's status will need to be monitored this week it sounds like, and hopefully owners will have a better feel for things on Wednesday. The Cards are going up against a banged up Rams team in Week 17. According to the tweet, Kinsburgy said Murray is capable of playing with limited mobility: "If he has to adjust his style, he can definitely play from the pocket."

The Patriots are not activating WR Julian Edelman from Injured Reserve today, which is not a surprise. And it’s unlikely that he plays next week.

As Rapoport added, Edelman’s season is almost certainly over — and at age 34, his future is uncertain, as well, the tweet went on to say. It's possible Edelman could catch on with a contender next season if he wants to keep playing, but he's obviously coming off back-to-back injury seasons as well.

LA now plans to sign Blake Bortles off Denver’s practice squad.

Related players: John Wolford, Jared Goff

Wolford is expected to start on Sunday vs. Arizona and Bortles will be the backup, according to Schefter's tweet. Jared Goff is out for Week 17 after having thumb surgery. The Rams QB situation looks like one to stay away from in Week 17.

The Rams officially announced Jared Goff underwent surgery for his broken thumb and that John Wolford will start against the Cardinals.

Schefter also reports the Rams will sign Blake Bortles off the Broncos’ practice squad to return to the Rams as the backup to Wolford. Wolford showed a pretty decent arm while in the AAF, throwing for over 1,600 yards, 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions in eight games for the Arizona Hotshots under head coach Rick Neuheisel. Goff could return in the Wild Card Playoff, should the Rams get in.

Rams QB Jared Goff underwent surgery on his broken right thumb and is unlikely to play Sunday against the Cardinals.

John Wolford, the AAF star, is in line to start for the Rams, who are trying to punch their ticket to the postseason. Goff could return to the lineup if the Rams advance to the playoffs, which they will if they beat Arizona or if Chicago loses to Green Bay. The Rams could be without Goff, Darrell Henderson and Cam Akers, giving them Wolford and RB Malcolm Brown in what basically amounts to a play-in game.

49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk suffered a high ankle sprain during Saturday’s loss to the Cardinals and will not play in Week 17 against the Seahawks.

The 49ers will also be without OT Trent Williams, who has a sprained elbow. Aiyuk had himself a fine rookie season, including leading the team in catches and yards. No George Kittle or Deebo Samuel obviously played into that, but still a good rookie season, nonetheless. At least Kittle is back to give San Francisco something on offense, but the team is ready to just play out the final game and move on to 2021. They “host” the Seahawks in Arizona on Sunday, with the Seahawks playing for the No. 1 seed in the NFC.

During his press conference with the media Monday, 49ers head coach said he believes Jimmy Garoppolo will be the team’s starting quarterback in 2021.

The future of the position has been an interesting topic in recent weeks with the injuries to Garoppolo, his contract (no guaranteed money after this season) and the 49ers possibly in position to draft a quarterback in 2021, even if they have to move up for one. The team will finish with a losing record and be the latest to suffer a Super Bowl hangover. Garoppolo will have the 11th-highest quarterback cap hit in 2021 at $26.9 million dollars, but they would save $24.1 million in cap space if they move on from him. It will be an interesting offseason surrounding the former NFC champions.

RB Frank Gore has a lung contusion, so he won't play this week, per Adam Gase.

Related players: La'Mical Perine, Ty Johnson, Josh Adams

As Cimini added, it could mean his career is over at 37. But for Week 17, Perine and Johnson could handle a bulk of the work with maybe Adams factoring in as well. Perine had nine rushes for 30 yards in Week 16 behind Gore's line of 14-48-0.

Andy Reid confirms some of the key starters won't play Sunday against Chargers. "Certain guys will have the opportunity to rest up,'' he said.

Related players: Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Le'Veon Bell, Tyreek Hill

No specifics were mentioned but one has to assume Mahomes, Kelce, Bell and Hill could be among those not to dress, or at the very least see limited time in Week 17.

Panthers coach Matt Rhule says he would lean toward Christian McCaffrey (quad) not playing in the finale based on what he knows and has seen.

Related players: Mike Davis

This shouldn't come as a surprise at this point. That would mean the running back, and likely first overall pick in your fantasy draft, has missed 13 of 16 games this season, the tweet went on to say. Davis will again resume the RB1 role in the final week of the season.

Washington has released QB Dwayne Haskins.

Related players: Alex Smith, Taylor Heinicke

Washington had to start Haskins in Week 16 despite Haskins violating COVID rules by not wearing a mask at a nightclub. To top that off, Haskins was awful in a game that could have sealed the division for Washington. He was eventually replaced by Heinicke. Smith is expected to be back in Week 17 when the team faces the Eagles. The team just needs a win to win the division.

Rams RB Darrell Henderson is believed to have suffered a high-ankle sprain in yesterday’s loss, making it unlikely he plays Sunday, source said. He’s having tests today to determine the severity. But LAR will be short-handed heading into a huge game vs. the Cardinals.

Related players: Cam Akers, Malcolm Brown

Akers is also dealing with a high ankle sprain and likely won't play in Week 17 either. That leaves the RB duties to Brown against the Cards and should at least make for a good volume pickup in a decent matchup if he's on your waiver wire. The Rams could also be without QB Jared Goff, however.

Kevin Stefanski says the Browns are hoping to get their WRs back in practice on Thursday.

Related players: Jarvis Landry, Donovan Peoples-Jones, KhaDarel Hodge, Rashard Higgins, Austin Hopper, Baker Mayfield, Kareem Hunt, Nick Chubb

Of course, this is provided they continue to test negative for COVID-19 this week, the tweet said. Without their WRs, the Browns ran the ball just 15 times with their stud backs and lost to the one-win Jets. It will be a tough matchup in Week 17 against the Steelers.

We'll ask coach Bruce Arians in a bit, but it appears RB Ronald Jones is on track with his COVID-19 protocol to be back Sunday vs Falcons.

Related players: Leonard Fournette

Jones still has to get a practice in, and is also dealing with a broken pinky finger, but it looks like he'll be a go in Week 17. Fournette looks like he'll move back to being the team's RB2.

In his Kansas City tenure, with the Chiefs’ playoff position locked in before the final regular-season game, Andy Reid has typically rested some of his starters. The first NFL start for quarterback Patrick Mahomes occurred in the final week of the 2017 regular season in Denver.

Mahomes and third-team quarterback Tyler Bray took all the snaps while starter Alex Smith rested.

The story pointed to several other times teams under Reid have rested starters, and it dates back to his days in Philly. The Chiefs will be the only AFC team not to play on Jan. 9 or 10 in the opening weekend of the playoffs, so it's a chance to give his players two weeks off from the wear and tear of the league. Reid didn't commit yet either way, however, so those with Chiefs playing in Week 17 of their fantasy playoffs should monitor this situation.

Ron Rivera said Alex Smith was "very close" to playing Sunday after having an "exceptional day" of practice Friday.

Related players: Taylor Heinicke, Dwayne Haskins

The tweet added when they checked in on him Saturday, he just wasn't quite there. Haskins started instead, was terrible and eventually got pulled for Heinicke. Expect Smith to be ready to go for a prime time game vs. the Eagles in Week 17. A Washington win means they make the playoffs as the NFC East Champion.

Dolphins WR and returner Jakeem Grant suffered a high-ankle sprain in the team’s dramatic win over the Raiders, source said.

Related players: Lynn Bowden, Isaiah Ford, Mack Hollins

Grant won't play in Week 17 and could also be a candidate for IR, according to Rapoport. The Dolphins continue to be banged up at the WR position so heading into Week 17 it leaves Bowden, Ford and Hollins as a possible top-three if DeVante Parker remains out.

Rams quarterback Jared Goff remained in Sunday’s loss to the Seahawks after breaking and dislocating his right thumb, but there’s a question about whether he’ll be able to play against the Cardinals in Week 17.

Surgery reportedly won’t be an obstacle to getting on the field. Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that Goff will be able to hold off on any operation until after the season.

Related players: John Wolford

Rapoport adds that more tests are coming on Goff’s thumb on Monday and that the quarterback is “adamant” about trying to play this week. Wolford, who has never appeared in an NFL game, would be next in line on the depth chart, the story said.

The Jaguars clinched the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft on Sunday, but the likely arrival of Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence isn’t the only reason there’s optimism in Jacksonville.

In addition to the first pick in the draft, the Jaguars have a boatload of extra picks acquired in trades, plus more salary cap space than any other team in 2021.

The story said the Jaguars have the Rams’ first-round pick and fourth-round pick from the Jalen Ramsey trade. The Jaguars also have the Vikings’ second-round pick from the Yannick Ngakoue trade, and the Browns’ fifth-round pick from the Ronnie Harrison trade.

Jarrett Stidham is not Plan A, B, C or D for the Patriots in 2021 as they search for a long-term answer at quarterback. That's the takeaway I have this week as Bill Belichick is reportedly set to roll with Cam Newton as his starter against Buffalo on Monday night. For the first time in what feels like forever, the Patriots are simply playing out the stretch.

After they were knocked from postseason contention last week, New England will simply be playing for pride when they take on the Buffalo Bills, who have already clinched the AFC East for the first time since 1995, the story said. This is obviously the time of year when teams evaluate talent, so based on the Pats sticking with Newton at QB, it doesn't seem to bode well for Stidham.

Even though Deshaun Watson had his second injury scare in three weeks, the three-time Pro Bowler says he will play the season finale against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium next week.

“Yeah, I will,” Watson said of his chances to play. “I’ll play.”

It was a bit of a scary sight for Watson, his fans and fantasy owners as Watson’s throwing hand was caught underneath Hubbard’s face mask as he was attempting to follow through on the throw. He actually returned to the game after the injury the story said.

The NFL flexed Washington at Philadelphia into Sunday Night Football for Week 17.

Despite the loss to the Panthers in Week 16, Washington can still win their way into the playoffs, though the loss ensured a team with a losing record will win their division for just the third time in NFL history. If the Eagles beat Washington, the winner of the Giants/Cowboys game at 1:00 will claim the division. How fitting in 2020 that the mess that is the NFC East will be featured in the final game of the 2020 regular season.

The Rams are uncertain about whether or not QB Jared Goff will be able to play in Week 17 against the Cardinals after suffering a right thumb injury during Sunday’s loss to the Seahawks.

Goff will undergo further testing when the Rams return to Los Angeles but he already looks questionable for what basically amounts to a playoff game against the Cardinals in Week 17, as the winner clinches a playoff spot (though the Rams would clinch even with a loss of the Bears lose to the Packers, who will be fighting for the No. 1 seed). If Goff can’t go, John Walford, a third-year player from Wake Forest) would be in line to start for the Rams.

Rams RB Darrell Henderson is doubtful to return to Sunday’s game against the Seahawks with an ankle injury.

Henderson was having a solid game, with 12 carries for 62 yards in what’s otherwise been a rough day on offense for the Rams. Malcolm Brown will take over as the Rams try to keep their division hopes alive and secure a playoff spot in the process.

Washington QB Dwayne Haskins has been benched in favor of Taylor Heinicke

Haskins had a miserable first half with a pair of interceptions and his second half didn’t go much better. He finished 14/28 for 154 yards, two interceptions and was sacked twice and lost a fumble. Washington is limping to the finish line and are now looking at a must-win game against Philadelphia in Week 17. Such a perfect way to end the NFC East season.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford was diagnosed with a sprained ankle in Saturday’s loss to the Buccaneers.

Rapoport says the injury is not too serious but it would make sense for the Lions to sit Stafford for Week 17. With the Lions now at 5-10 and set for a head coach and general manager search in the offseason, all the focus is on 2021 and Stafford shouldn’t be anywhere near the field against the Vikings in Week 17. Look for Detroit to turn to Chase Daniel for the start as the Lions wrap up yet another disappointing season that was punctuated by a 47-7 drubbing by Tom Brady (and even Blaine Gabbert) and the Buccaneers.

The NFL is planning to begin using the 17-game schedule in 2021.

We knew the 17-game season was coming thanks to the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, we just didn’t know how soon. Sunday, we got that answer. Nothing will be official for a while until the league agrees to a new media deal, but this is now the likely destination for the league. An extra week of fantasy football is never a bad thing. The league had already agreed on what the extra game is going to be, which will be a fifth inter-conference game against one of the same-place finishers on a rotating basis. The conferences will also rotate each year between having nine home games one year and eight the next.

Chargers WR Keenan Allen (hamstring) is not expected to play in Week 16 against the Broncos.

Allen played last week, but saw just 24 snaps. The Chargers are going to let Allen recover. No reason to rush him with the Chargers at 5-9. There’s a chance he’ll be out there for the season finale against the Chiefs.

Dolphins QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has replaced Tua Tagovailoa.

The Dolphins have been doing plenty of flip-flopping at the quarterback position this season and this one comes at quite the crossroads for the Dolphins, trailing in the fourth quarter as they fight to make the playoffs. Tua was 17/22 for just 94 yards and a touchdown and was sacked three times.

Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott will play in Week 16 against the Eagles.

Elliott missed Week 15 against the 49ers but was trending towards returning for what amounts to an elimination game against the Eagles, though a Washington win eliminates both teams. After Tony Pollard’s big day against the 49ers, Dallas could split the workload pretty evenly between the two. The down year for Elliott was empathized by Alvin Kamara scoring more touchdowns against the Vikings (6) than Elliott has scored all season (5). Both backs are flex options for championship week.

Washington QB Alex Smith felt sore from his calf injury Saturday and there is now not as much optimism on him playing Sunday as there was on Friday.

Washington will check on Smith Sunday morning. They take on the Panthers at 4:05. Dwayne Haskins will start if Smith cannot go. Washington is already expected to be without Terry McLaurin, so the offense will take a dip against a Panthers defense that held the Packers to just three points in the second half in Week 15. Washington is looking to clinch their first division title since 2015 with a win plus a Giants loss.

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray limped off the field with an apparent lower-leg injury at the end of Saturday’s loss to the 49ers.

Murray took a crushing hit at the end of the game and limped off the field and to the locker room. Murray had a rough night even before the injury, including throwing a killer interception in a 20-12 loss that dealt a major blow to the Cardinals’ playoff hopes. They no longer control their destiny to make the playoffs. We’ll get more word on Murray, but he’ll probably try to tough it out in what is now an absolute must-win in Week 17 against the Rams.

A group of Browns wide receivers, including Jarvis Landry, Rashard Higgins and Donovan Peoples-Jones, have been deemed high-risk-close-contacts and are likely unable to play Sunday against the Jets.

The Browns’ flight to New Jersey was delayed Saturday due to contact tracing. Cleveland did find one positive test in linebacker B.J. Goodson. The team is now awaiting word on who can and cannot travel for the game. The game is still on, but we’ll see who Cleveland will be going to battle with as they close in on their first playoff appearance since 2002 and try to keep their division hopes alive as well.

The Broncos are placing RB Phillip Lindsay on injured reserve with hip and knee injuries.

Needless to say, this will end Lindsay’s season with the Broncos not making the playoffs. Lindsay will finish with just 502 rushing yards in 11 games as Melvin Gordon starting taking over the lead role as the season wore and injuries riddled Lindsay all season. Lindsay is set to become a restricted free agent after the season.

Jaguars RB James Robinson (ankle) will not play in Week 16 against the Bears.

Robinson missed all week of practice and was listed as questionable for Sunday. Dare Ogunbowale and Devine Ozigbo are behind Robinson on the depth chart. It’s looking like a long day on offense for the Jaguars with Mike Glennon starting at quarterback. The Jags have their sights set on Trevor Lawrence.

Matthew Stafford left Saturday’s game against the Buccaneers with an injured foot and will not return.

Chase Daniel took over for Stafford, who was hobbling on the injured foot and went to the locker room. With the Lions being decimated by the Buccaneers, there was no reason to put Stafford back in anyway, as the Lions are headed for their tenth loss of the season.

Giants QB Daniel Jones (hamstring, ankle) will start Sunday against the Ravens.

This was the expectation all week after Jones missed Week 15. The Giants did next to nothing against the Browns, so they’re hoping getting Jones back will give them a boost in what’s just about a must-win game against the Ravens. A loss plus a Washington win eliminates the Giants and gives Washington the NFC East title.

Ravens WR Marquise Brown is questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Giants, according to the team's official injury report.

Brown has seen over 25% of the team's targets the past month. His absence would be large.

Chargers WR Keenan Allen is questionable for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos, according to Gilbert Manzano of the OC Register.

Allen was going to be an iffy play because of the hammy. He labored through a TNF win Week 15, and appears to be set to do the same Week 16.

Cowboys WR Michael Gallup will not carry an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, according to Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News.

This keep the Cowboys WR trio in tact in an important NFC East battle.

Rams RB Cam Akers is out Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, according to the team's official injury report.

This was expected and is now official. Darrell Henderson and Malcolm Brown will man the Rams backfield.

Texans RB Duke Johnson will not play Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals, according to the team's official injury report.

David Johnson is firmly in the RB2 category. Buddy Howell will back up Johnson.

Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott is questionable for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, according to Mike Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News.

This was expected to go down to the wire, so be prepared to play another option.

Broncos RB Phillip Lindsay will not play Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to Field Yates of ESPN.

Melvin Gordon will get the heavy workload, with Royce Freeman filling in for Lindsay.

Packers RB Jamaal Williams is doubtful to play Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, according to the team's official injury report.

Fire up Aaron Jones!

Bengals QB practiced in full again Friday and will be available if needed against the Houston Texans, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com.

It is great to see Allen did not suffer a serous knee injury when he went down two weeks ago. Ryan Finley played well against a stout defense Week 15, and gets an easier matchup against the Texans Week 16.

Bengals WR Tyler Boyd will not play Week 16 against the Houston Texans, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com.

The Bengals will have A.J. Green, Tee Higgins, Mike Thomas (CIN), and others to fill Boyd's void.

Giants WR Golden Tate will miss Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens, according to Art Stapleton of The Record.

The Giants will lean on Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton at receiver.

Giants QB Daniel Jones is questionable for Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens, according to Art Stapleton of The Record.

Related Player: Colt McCoy

Jones looked awful while trying to play with the ailments, and a road date with the Ravens may not be much better.

Washington Football Team QB Alex Smith and RB Antonio Gibson are questionable for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers.

WFT needs Gibson with Terry McLaurin likely out Sunday, and Smith to start over Dwayne Haskins because of his off-putting week.

Washington Football Team WR Terry McLaurin is doubtful to play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, according to Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.

No matter who starts at QB for WFT, they will likely be without the team's best offensive weapon. The workload falls to Cam Sims, Steve Sims, and Logan Thomas.

Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Washington Football Team, according to the team's official injury report.

CMC's lost season is almost over. Mike Davis will continue to be Carolina's lead back, with Rodney Smith seeing work as the season winds down.

Jaguars RB James Robinson will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Robinson would be a big loss for Jacksonville, especially since he has taken well over 90% of the team's carries this season. Devine Ozigbo and Dare Ogunbowale would split work in Robinson's absence.

Bears WR Allen Robinson is questionable for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to the team's official injury report.

His absence in a a revenge game would mean more work for Anthony Miller and Darnell Mooney. The good news is Robinson logged a limited practice yesterday.

Falcons WR Julio Jones will not play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

The Falcons will start Calvin Ridley and Russell Gage at receiver.

San Francisco 49ers superstar tight end George Kittle will be active for Week 16's contest against the Arizona Cardinals.

Kittle has been sidelined since Week 8 with the foot injury but is set to provide a major boost to fantasy managers who decided to stash him on IR. Our fifth ranked tight end for Week 16, Kittle may see his snaps slightly scaled back but should remain a focal point of the offense. Kittle was the number two tight end when healthy, pacing the position with 24.7% of his team's air yards and ranking second with a stellar 25.7% target share.

Kansas City Chiefs superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill logged a limited practice session on Thursday.

Tyreek missed practice on Wednesday with some hamstring tightness but was able to return to the practice field on Thursday. All signs point towards him being active for Week 16 against the Atlanta Falcons. Tyreek could be poised for a massive week and is our number two receiver for fantasy football's finals.

Atlanta Falcons superstar wide receiver Julio Jones missed Thursday's practice with a hamstring.

The door is rapidly closing on Julio's fantasy season. He will need to show significant overnight improvement to avoid be an early rule out tomorrow. He has been unable to practice all week and has been sidelined since Week 13 with the injury. Calvin Ridley will continue to be a target monster with Julio sidelined. Ridley has seen 34.7% of the targets and 57.3% of the air yards since Julio has been out and is our number three ranked receiver for finals week.

Los Angeles Chargers superstar wide receiver Keenan Allen will be a game time decision for Week 16's contest against the Denver Broncos.

Allen has played in 62 straight contests, so the Chargers will give him every opportunity to prove that he can contribute for Week 16 before ruling him out. Allen stated that the games played streak was on his mind when he was pushing to play against the Raiders. He felt the hamstring tighten up and watched the majority of the game from the sidelines. Fantasy managers should have their contingency options ready but can afford to be cautiously optimistic. Keenan is our 21st ranked wide receiver for finals week.

Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison has been ruled out for Week 16 against the New Orleans Saints.

Mattison had been sidelined for three weeks after undergoing an appendectomy and returned in Week 15 only to suffer a concussion after only six snaps. He will miss Week 16, leaving Ameer Abdullah and Mike Boone to pick up the scraps behind workhorse Dalvin Cook. Cook is our fifth ranked running back for finals week.

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry has been added to the reserve/COVID list.

Henry being added to the list this late in the week suggests that the talented tight end will not be available for Week 16 against the Denver Broncos. Donald Parham will get the nod as the starter when Henry is officially deemed unavailable. Parham has shown some flashes this season but never saw more than 26 percent of the snaps prior to the 36 percent he saw last week. The rookie tight end is our 24th ranked tight end for Week 16.

Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph has been ruled out for Week 16 against the New Orleans Saints.

Kyle Rudolph has missed the last two contests with the injury. Irv Smith Jr. and Tyler Conklin have split work in his absence, with Smith seeing more air yards, but Conklin recording more targets and receptions. In Week 15, Smith saw 82 percent of the snaps after seeing just 35 percent in Week 14. He should be close to recovered from the injury that kept him sidelined for multiple weeks and is our 20th ranked tight end for Week 16.

Raiders starting quarterback Derek Carr practiced in full Wednesday as he deals with a groin injury.

Carr was listed as limited on Tuesday so he is trending the right direction to suit up against the Dolphins on Saturday. Carr's groin injury looked fairly serious at first, but reports since then have been positive and they are confirmed in today's injury report. Carr looks like he should be under center against a tough Miami defense in Week 16.

The Dolphins activated running back Myles Gaskin from the Reserve/COVID list Wednesday and he participated in practice.

Gaskin looks poised to return in Week 16 and reclaim his role at the head of the Miami backfield after missing two games on the COVID list. Gaskin's return will relegate Salvon Ahmed back to fantasy benches or the waiver wire. Gaskin projects as a solid RB2 against Las Vegas in Week 16.

Washington running back Antonio Gibson returned to a limited practice Wednesday.

Gibson has missed the last two games as he deals with a case of turf toe. The fact that he's back at Wednesday's practice bodes well for his Week 16 status as Washington prepares to take on Carolina. Gibson's return would relegate Peyton Barber to the bench and cut into J.D. McKissic's workload as a pass catcher.

Washington quarterback Dwayne Haskins is getting first-team reps at practice Wednesday.

The report notes Alex Smith is present at practice, but is only watching Haskins. Haskins did nothing in the first half against Seattle last week before having some positive moments later in the game. He also violated COVID-19 protocols by going to a strip club after the loss, a mistake he could still face discipline for. Haskins will not be a fantasy option even if he starts against Carolina in Week 16.

Giants starting quarterback Daniel Jones is practicing Wednesday as he recovers from his hamstring injury.

The news puts Jones on track to return in Week 16 so long as he doesn't suffer a setback at practice this week. Even if Jones does return, his mobility could be limited which would put a damper on his fantasy prospects. That being said, Jones's return would be a boost to the other offensive players on the Giants.

Bengals Head Coach Zac Taylor ruled running back Joe Mixon out for Week 16 due to his foot injury.

The news is not surprising as this will mark Mixon's ninth consecutive missed game and it certainly looks like the Bengals have shut him down for the season. Giovani Bernard will continue to handle the majority of the backfield work in Cincinnati with Samaje Perine and rookie Trayveon Williams mixing in for occasional touches.

Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey is not practicing Wednesday due to his thigh injury.

It's safe to say McCaffrey's Week 16 status is in doubt, a fitting conclusion to a hugely disappointing season for the star running back. McCaffrey still displayed elite skills when he was on the field, but injuries completely derailed his season for the Panthers and fantasy managers. McCaffrey will return as an elite RB1 in fantasy next season.

Cowboys Head Coach Mike McCarthy announced that running back Ezekiel Elliott will be a limited participant in practice Wednesday.

Zeke was held out of last week's game as a game-time decision, but the limited Wednesday practice suggests he has a decent chance at returning in Week 16. Backup Tony Pollard performed admirably in Elliott's absence and would get another start if Zeke is forced to sit again. Check back later in the week for updates on Elliott's status.

Jaguars Head Coach Doug Marrone told reporters Wednesday that the team will take it easy on running back James Robinson in practice this week but Robinson wants to play Week 16 against the Bears.

Robinson left last week's game after injuring his ankle and the team will understandably take it easy on the breakout running back this week in practice. It sounds like Robinson has a decent chance at suiting up against Chicago as long as he doesn't suffer a setback at some point during the week. Robinson's extensive usage in the run and pass game make him a solid starter in all fantasy formats.

The 49ers are shutting down running back Raheem Mostert and receiver Deebo Samuel for the season, coach Kyle Shanahan announced Tuesday.

Related players: Jeff Wilson, Tevin Coleman, Jerick McKinnon

We just posted a story about Mostert, but the Samuel news isn't really a surprise either. He is dealing with a hamstring injury and was going to miss time. Samuel played seven games, gaining 417 yards and scoring one touchdown on 41 touches.

Wide receiver Tre'Quan Smith (ankle), guard Andrus Peat (ankle), guard Nick Eason (concussion), and safety Marcus Williams (ankle) were all non-participants.

Related players: Drew Brees

The Saints have a quick turnaround with a game against the Vikings on Christmas Day, Friday. The team didn't actually practice today but listed Smith as not being able to had they held a practice. The story also said Brees wasn't listed on the injury report. He returned last week after missing four games with a rib injury.

A week after returning to the team that drafted him and then traded him to a division rival, the Miami Dolphins put Isaiah Ford back on their active roster Tuesday.

Ford, who Miami traded to the Patriots in October for a 2022 sixth-round draft pick, was re-signed last week after New England waived him. The Dolphins called him up for Sunday’s 22-12 win over the Patriots. In that game Ford played 53 of Miami’s 72 offensive snaps, and caught three passes for 18 yards in a game that featured the Dolphins playing without pass catchers DeVante Parker, Mike Gesicki and Jakeem Grant, the story said. With the Dolphins still very much banged up at the WR position, Ford could have a role this week against the Raiders as they look to make a playoff push. But he's obviously a risky play in fantasy leagues.

RB Jamaal Williams is not at practice today.

Related players: Aaron Jones, A.J. Dillon

Williams injured his quad early last Saturday night and didn’t return, which meant a huge workload - and game - for Jones. While Jones would likely get a big workload again against the Titans on Sunday night in Week 16, Dillon, with more prep time this week, may get a few more touches than he did last week.

If the Bucs’ running game is going to improve, it likely will have to do so without the club’s leading rusher.

Ronald Jones is unlikely to return from the reserve/COVID-19 list in time for Saturday’s game at Detroit. Coach Bruce Arians on Tuesday called Jones, also dealing with a broken pinkie finger, “doubtful.”

Related players: Leonard Fournette, LeSean McCoy, Ke'Shawn Vaughn

Fournette was a healthy scratch just two weeks ago but did produce a 14-46-2 line last week. The only other back to get a carry was Vaughn, but he had just two rushes. McCoy, who seemed to be ahead of Fournette on the depth chart not that long ago, didn't get a rush and had just three receptions. It looks like Fournette would get a bulk of the work again in a nice matchup against the Lions in Week 16.

Derek Carr (groin) practiced in limited fashion on Tuesday.

Related players: Marcus Mariota

The tweet went on to say both Carr and Mariota got reps and HC Jon Gruden said, "we'll see how it goes this week." Gruden went on to say Carr is "one of the premier competitors in the league ... but we're gonna be smart." Mariota played well in relief of Carr last week and could at least be an option in deeper leagues if he gets the start this week. The Raiders are at home against the Dolphins on Saturday night.

49ers are signing QB Josh Rosen off the Buccaneers practice squad on to SF’s active roster.

Related players: C.J. Beathard, Nick Mullens, Jimmy Garoppolo

The Niners are in need of another QB with Garoppolo not likely to play this week and Mullens also injured. It leaves them with only Beathard, who is projected to start this week.

HC Bevell said same plan with Matthew Stafford this week, taking it day by day.

Related players: Chase Daniel

Birkett's tweet went on to say Bevell was asked about shutting Stafford down for the final weeks of the season, "To be honest with you, I don't think he'll let that happen."

Mike Tomlin says Steelers could potentially have James Conner for Week 16.

Related players: Benny Snell

One positive to come out of the game was the Steelers were able to run the ball a little. Tomlin said he "was impressed with the efforts of Benny Snell and what we were able to do" in the run game, according to another tweet by Batko. The Steelers get a tough game this week against the Colts. It's assumed if Conner can play he would step back into the RB1 role, but it's worth monitoring this week with Snell coming off a good game.

Raheem Mostert’s aggravated ankle sprain ends his season with 521 rushing yards and two touchdowns in eight starts, half of which he was unable to finish.

Related players: Jeff Wilson, Tevin Coleman, Jerick McKinnon

The 49ers likely will start Wilson against the Cardinals, after Shanahan said Wilson emerged healthy enough last game despite ankle and hamstring concerns, the story said. Coleman and McKinnon are available in relief. Austin Walter is eligible to come off COVID-19 reserve by kickoff but Shanahan doubts his availability.

Tight end George Kittle is on pace to play Saturday when the 49ers, despite being eliminated from playoff contention, play the host Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.

Kittle has been out since sustaining a Nov. 1 foot fracture in Seattle.

The story asks why play Kittle with the 49ers eliminated from the playoffs, HC Kyle Shanahan responded: “If he’s healthy I don’t see the reason why not to. Same with every other player on our roster,” Shanahan said. “We’d never ask him to play injured. Most of the soreness is going away. We’ll definitely test it again. If he’s 100 percent healthy, how do you sit one guy and look in the eye of everyone else on the team? There’s a respect level players have toward each other.” If Kittle is on your wire, he's a must-add for your fantasy finals or any kind of playoff game that can win you money.

The San Francisco 49ers will have a different starting quarterback this weekend when they take on the Arizona Cardinals.

Nick Mullens, who has started eight games for San Francisco this season, suffered an elbow injury in the 49ers’ 41-33 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He will be out this week, so head coach Kyle Shanahan said C.J. Beathard will start.

The story said Mullens is 2-6 as a starter but Beathard is 1-9 as a starter in his career and has not won a game since 2017. He has had limited work in four games this season. He has completed 28-of-45 passes for 332 yards and two touchdowns. In 17 career games, he has 14 career touchdown passes and 13 interceptions.

The Washington Football Team is aware of social media posts showing QB Dwayne Haskins partying maskless in a strip club, was in contact with the NFL yesterday about the matter and is handling the matter internally, I’m told.

Related players: Alex Smith, Steven Montez, Taylor Heinicke

Pelissero went on to say in another tweet Washington has no plans to release Haskins, who was fined for a previous COVID-19 protocol violation. Going to a nightclub without PPE is considered “High Risk COVID-19 Conduct,” punishable by a maximum fine of one week’s salary or up to four-game suspension, Pelissero went on to say. Washington plays a key game against Carolina this week, but it's possible Haskins is punished by the team or even placed on the COVID list if they think he is at risk. Smith is recovering from a calf injury, but given the importance of the game, may be forced back into action as Washington has a chance to win the NFC East.

Earlier this morning the Lions were informed about two positive COVID tests in their organization.

We'll likely find out the names soon. For now, the Lions are conducting business virtually, the tweet said.

The Giants are planning a Friday afternoon practice to allow players Christmas morning with their families. Friday has been the key day each of the last three weeks in determining Daniel Jones’ availability to sit, start and then sit again.

Related players: Colt McCoy

HC Joe Judge continues to say the standard remains the same and the concern for playing Jones is his health and to make sure he can go on the field and protect himself.

Chris Godwin’s numbers are down this year because he missed four games with three separate injuries (concussion, hamstring and finger), but he’s still just two catches behind Mike Evans for the team lead in receptions. Don’t forget his 2019 production in a Pro Bowl season: 1,333 yards and nine touchdowns in 14 games. It’s hard to pay two receivers $15 million or more a year, but they’re such central parts of Bruce Arians’ offense that it’s hard to imagine them trading either of them.

The author said a possible solution is to give Godwin the franchise tag, which should be around $16 million for one year. The story added writer Sheil Kapadia had Godwin ranked as the No. 2 overall free agent at any position for next year. The piece said if the Bucs don’t think they can afford him longterm, it would be better to franchise him and trade him than to let him walk and only (maybe) get a third-round compensatory pick in 2022.

Jamaal Williams' thigh injury isn't considered to be severe, but how he fares in rehab will determine his availability for next Sunday's game versus the Titans, Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.

Related players: Aaron Jones, A.J. Dillon

After Williams left the game in Week 15, it was all Jones with the exception of a couple of chances for Dillon. It's looking like it could be a similar pattern for Week 16 when the Packers take on the Titans on SNF. Williams status will need to be monitored this week. If he can't go, Dillon would line up as the team's RB2 behind Jones.

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd was ruled out of Monday night's 27-17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers with a concussion.

Related players: Mike Thomas, Alex Erickson

Boyd was injured in the first quarter following an incomplete pass. He leaped to attempt to grab a deep ball from Bengals quarterback Ryan Finley but was unable to traverse two Steelers defenders. When he landed he clearly slammed the back of his head to the turf. If Boyd can't clear protocol, Higgins and Green will ride as the top-two WRs for Week 16. Thomas and Erickson are up next on our depth chart but the Bengals passing game is limited these days.

Steelers tight end Eric Ebron did not return to Monday’s loss against the Bengals with a back injury.

Related players: Vance McDonald, Zach Gentry

Ebron was hit by a couple of Bengals in the second quarter of the game. Ebron called for a flag and then laid back down on the turf and needed attention. The Steelers offense is struggling and Ebron has been a key target in the red zone. His status for Week 16 will need to be monitored. McDonald and Gentry are up next on the depth chart.

Rams RB Cam Akers has a high ankle sprain, Sean McVay says, which will cause him to miss this next game, at least.

Related players: Darrell Henderson, Malcolm Brown

Akers had his best game two Thursdays ago and even led the Rams backfield last week in a dreadful effort against the Rams, but he didn't make it out of Week 15 healthy. Akers is already out for Week 16 and it wouldn't be shocking if he misses Week 17 as well, but that's to be determined. Henderson seems likely to get a bigger workload but Brown will be involved as well in a matchup against the Seahawks.

Without Cam Akers in the mix, the Rams will likely roll with Darrell Henderson as the starter against the Seahawks, with Malcolm Brown also involved. Henderson is the preferred add this week with Brown more of a desperation play.

Running back Christian McCaffrey has played only three games in 2020 due to various injuries, but the 4-10 Panthers have not shut him down.

On Monday, head coach Matt Rhule said whether McCaffrey plays Sunday depends on if he’s available earlier in the week.

Related players: Mike Davis

McCaffrey suffered a thigh injury during a Week 14 practice. He hasn’t played since Week 9, when he suffered a shoulder injury during Carolina’s loss to Kansas City. Rhule indicated if McCaffrey can practice Wednesday, he could be on track to play.

Josh Gordon is officially again a Seahawk.

The seventh-year veteran receiver was removed from the commissioner’s exempt list Monday and added to the team’s active 53-player roster with coach Pete Carroll saying the expectation is that he will play Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.

Carroll also said veteran tight end Greg Olsen “is returning this week’’ after having practiced last week.

Related players: David Moore

Carroll said the team is planning the week like Gordon has a chance to contribute. For fantasy purposes, he's probably a bit of a risk especially since it's the finals for most leagues, but the story said Gordon could resume his role as the team's WR3. That would mean passing Moore in the pecking order. Moore has played about 46% of the snaps this year and is having a career year as far as receptions go. Gordon has not played since last Dec 15 at Carolina.

As for Olsen, he practiced last week but wasn't activated so one can assume he was close. Carroll said via the story, assuming Olsen makes it through the practice week that “he’ll be back in, ready to go.’’ Olsen suffered a plantar fascia injury on Nov. 19 against Arizona and was then placed on injured reserve.

Sean McDermott on Stefon Diggs' foot injury from the Broncos game: "The reports I've gotten are not overly worrisome."

Related players: John Brown, Cole Beasley, Gabriel Davis, Isaiah McKenzie

He may not be worried but what about fantasy owners? Those who own Diggs may have to wait until Wednesday to get a better of idea of just how serious or not serious Diggs' foot injury is. It's definitely worth monitoring for owners and it may not hurt to come up with a backup plan if this is your finals week. Brown has been designated for return so it's possible he could come back. But if Diggs and Brown would happen to miss Week 16, the Bills would roll with Beasley, Davis and McKenzie as their top-three.

Cowboys WR Michael Gallup avoided serious injury in Sunday’s win over 49ers. Exited third quarter with a hip pointer, source said.

Related players: Amari Cooper, CeeDee Lamb

Gallup hasn’t been ruled out for Sunday’s divisional game against Eagles, the tweet said. And with the Cowboys and the rest of the NFC East teams still alive for the division, this will be a key game for both teams so Gallup may try to play through the injury. He produced a 3-26-1 line behind Lamb's 8-85-0 line last week, while Cooper had just two catches for 10 yards in the win over the 49ers.

Raheem Morris says Todd Gurley’s role has changed. Morris said Ito Smith is the lead runner right now.

Related players: Brian Hill

Smith has had 16, 9, 12 and 8 touches over his last four games while Gurley has had 9, 8 and 3 over his last three games. Meanwhile, Hill has seen 13, 5, 2 and 7 touches over his last four. Smith has had 8 catches over the last four games but it's only produced 20 yards. As the group, Smith has the lone TD among the three backs, and that was back in Week 12 against the Raiders. Week 1-9, Gurley got anywhere from 14-23 carries a game but has been dealing with a knee injury that has likely changed his role. What all this means is none of these backs are really a safe fantasy play.

The Eagles are opening the 21-day window for WR DeSean Jackson (ankle) to practice, source says.

Related players: Jalen Hurts

He’s currently on IR but attempting to return as the Eagles are still alive to win the NFL East and host a home playoff game if things fall their way. Jackson's speed would be an interesting combo with Hurts now at QB for the Eagles. Hurts has done a much better job extending plays and moving out of the pocket. But, Jackson is far from a safe play in fantasy lineups even if he returns sooner than later.

Pittsburgh RB James Conner, initially listed as questionable for tonight with a quad injury, is being downgraded to out against the Bengals, per source.

Related players: Benny Snell, Jaylen Samuels, Anthony McFarland

Snell likely will start in his place, according to Schefter. It's possible Samuels and McFarland get some work too, especially Samuels on third down and passing situations. McFarland has had 3-4 touches over the last four games while Samuels had seven touches last week against the Bills, but the Steelers did trail most of the game.

Jalen Hurts will make his third career start against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday.

Carson Wentz

No shock here as even in a loss to the Cardinals Hurts was again dynamic. Reports say Wentz now wants out of Philly if regulated to a backup next season, and as of now, it looks like the Eagles will be sticking with Hurts for the long term

Bears WR/RB/KR Cordarrelle Patterson avoided a serious knee injury Sunday, source said.

Related players: David Montgomery

Sounds like Patterson has a pretty good shot to play this week against the Jaguars, but they’ll see how he progresses through the week. Montgomery has done a fine job of handling most of the workload this season for the Bears so even if Patterson plays, Monty should keep his workload.

Is it time to seriously consider Carolina should use its first pick to draft a franchise quarterback to develop behind Teddy Bridgewater?

Absolutely. And after the Panthers on Monday fired general manager Marty Hurney, it's even more likely that a new regime will want to start fresh.

The story said the Panthers currently hold the fourth selection of the 2021 draft at 4-10. If they lose their final two games against Washington and New Orleans -- as the oddsmakers likely will predict -- they’ll have their highest pick since 2011, when they drafted Cam Newton first overall, the story said. The story speculates the Panthers will have a shot at BYU’s Zach Wilson, North Dakota State’s Trey Lance or maybe Alabama’s Mac Jones to build the offense around, assuming Trevor Lawrence and Josh Fields go before they pick.

New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton admitted he hasn't played as well as he hoped in 2020, but he said Monday that he still has "a lot of football left."

Related players: Jarrett Stidham

With the Patriots now out of the playoffs, it makes sense to see what else they have at the position. The story said coach Bill Belichick left open the possibility of giving Stidham playing time with the team out of playoff contention. Newton is a free agent after the season and plans to keep playing in 2021, the story said. He explained that one of his goals in 2020 was to make it through the season healthy after previously being sidelined with shoulder and foot injuries.

The Carolina Panthers have parted ways with general manager Marty Hurney.

The Panthers announced the decision Monday, saying a search for Hurney's replacement will "begin immediately."

Hurney's contract was set to expire in June.

Owner David Tepper also announced first-year coach Matt Rhule would be involved in the Panthers' GM search.

Jalen Hurts has started only two games. His long-term future is still murky, but the Eagles’ quarterback picture for the next nine months is crystal clear. Barring injury, Hurts will be the Eagles’ starting quarterback in Week 1 of the 2021 season, and denying that inevitability is as obtuse as Doug Pederson choosing to wait a day before declaring Hurts next week’s starter.

Related players: Carson Wentz

Wentz has already asked to be moved if Hurts is going to be the starter, according to reports. The author thinks some team will come calling for Wentz and that Wentz will likely play well for his new team next season. The story added in his first two starts, Hurts has piled up 505 passing yards and an NFL-record 169 rushing yards. Against the league’s No. 2 and No. 9 defense, per DVOA, Hurts has led the Eagles to 24 and 26 points, their third- and fifth-highest outputs of the season, respectively.

The Jaguars are poised to pick first in the 2021 NFL draft and get Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who is widely regarded not only as the best prospect playing college football this season, but one of the handful of elite prospects of the last decade.

Thanks to the Jets winning yesterday, both the Jets and Jaguars are 1-13, tied for the worst record in the NFL. But the Jaguars are favored to end up with the first overall pick because of the first tiebreaker: Strength of schedule. The Jags play the Colts and Bears while the Jets play the Browns and Patriots.

Drew Brees finished 15-of-34 for 234 yards and three touchdowns to go with the early pick. In his postgame press conference, he admitted that he was not all the way back to form.

“I think being able to throw the ball good enough and that was kind of a ramp up from last week into early this week and throughout practice,” Brees said. “I still have a little way to go, I’ll be honest. There are some things I am still kind of working on, but it is what it is.”

Related players: Taysom Hill

Brees started the game 0-for-6 with an interception as the Saints fell behind to the Chiefs 14-0. The Saints play the Vikings on Christmas night.

Kansas City Chiefs rookie RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire suffered what is thought to be a high ankle sprain and a strained hip during the Chiefs' 32-29 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Related players: Le'Veon Bell

Another report this morning said he is expected to miss the rest of the regular season and the hope is he can return during the postseason, according to the source. The report also said CEH was dealing with a hip injury. Edwards-Helaire was bent backward while being tackled after a 4-yard run in the fourth quarter and then needed help to get off the field.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wants to continue playing next season and, barring a change of heart, intends to fulfill the terms of a contract that has one season remaining on it after this one, league sources tell ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Related players: JuJu Smith-Schuster, Chase Claypool, Diontae Johnson

According to the story, sources around Roethlisberger believe the two-time Super Bowl champion is having too much fun and likes his team too much to walk away from it after the 2020 season. Who can blame Big Ben, with a young group of emerging receivers Ben could probably play a couple more years as long as the feelings are mutual.

Chiefs RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire suffered a hip and an ankle injury yesterday, but X-Rays were negative, per coach Andy Reid.

Related players: Le'Veon Bell, Darrell Williams

The injury looked bad as CEH was bent back awkwardly and then needed help coming off the field. The Chiefs will know more after the MRI but right now the early expectation is CEH is done for the regular season with a chance to return for the playoffs, sources told Rapoport. Bell will step in as the lead back with CEH out of the picture and is a must-add if on your wire. Williams should see increased work as the RB2.

Chiefs RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire will have an MRI to determine the extent of the hip injury he suffered during Sunday’s win against the Saints.

The injury looked bad initially but head coach Andy Reid said the initial X-rays after the game were negative. The MRI will determine if there was any other sort of damage to his hip and groin, which Verderame says is the biggest concern at the moment for CEH. Hopefully we get some good news regarding CEH in general. We likely won’t see him again until the playoffs. The Chiefs play the Falcons in Week 16.

Rams RB Cam Akers is questionable to return to Sunday’s game against the Jets with an ankle injury.

Akers had his ankle rolled up on during a run in the first half. Darrell Henderson has temporarily replaced Akers with the Rams surprisingly trailing the Jets early.

Update: Akers has been taped up and is returning to the game.

49ers RB Raheem Mostert is questionable to return to Sunday’s game against Dallas with an ankle injury.

Mostert came up limping after a short carry in the third quarter and was seen grabbbing his lower leg and ankle on the bench. Jeff Wilson Jr. has been taking more carries as a result. Mostert was at 14 carries for 68 yards.

Seahawks WR Josh Gordon is set to rejoin the team on Monday.

Gordon was reinstated a few weeks ago but has adhered to the terms of his conditional reinstatement and is now set to rejoin the team on Monday and is on track to practice and potentially play in Week 16 against the Rams. Pelissero reports Gordon weighed in at 238 pounds with 7% body fat, which is incredible. It's a noteworthy add to the Seahawks, but he likely won't eat much into D.K. Metcalf or Tyler Lockett to be a fantasy factor, especially in Championship Week.

Falcons WR Julio Jones had a platelet-rich plasma injection earlier this month for his injured hamstring in hopes of playing again in 2020.

Jones has no plans of being shut down for the rest of the season. He is out today against the Buccaneers and the Falcons really don't have much incentive to play Jones, as they have already been officially eliminated from the playoffs at 4-9. With the hamstring bothering Jones since Week 2, Jones is enduring his worst season in the NFL, having just 51 catches for 771 yards and three touchdowns. The Falcons finish the season against the Chiefs and the Buccaneers again in Week 17.

The Saints are placing WR Michael Thomas on injured reserve as his ankle injury from Week 1 is still lingering.

Being put on injured reserve now means his regular season is over with three games left. But Thomas is expected to be ready for the start of the playoffs. All the more reason for the Saints to get the NFC's No. 1 seed and the first-round bye so Thomas can have an extra week to rest. Emmanuel Sanders and Tre'Quan Smith should see an uptick in targets, especially with Drew Brees back under center.

Giants QB Colt McCoy will start in Week 15 against the Browns.

Daniel Jones is still dealing with hamstring and ankle issues. McCoy will start his second game in three weeks for the Giants in what will be almost like a homecoming of sorts. McCoy spent time as Browns quarterback and former head coach Freddie Kitchens will call the plays this week while OC Jason Garrett recovers from COVID. McCoy went 13/22 for 105 yards, a touchdown and an interception in New York's upset win over Seattle in Week 13.

The Patriots downgraded RB Damien Harris and WR Donte Moncrief to out for Week 15 against the Dolphins.

Harris was banged up during their Week 14 loss to the Rams and had been limited during the week with the injury. This should put Sony Michel back in the spotlight for the Patriots, who saw seven carries against the Rams for 22 yards, though James White will still get the passing-down looks. This could be Michel's last chance in New England. It's also a tough matchup against a good Dolphins front.

The Bengals are starting QB Ryan Finley at quarterback for Week 15 on Monday night against the Steelers.

The Bengals have already had a mini-carousel at the position since Joe Burrow suffered a torn ACL. Finley initially got the position, only to falter and have the Bengals switch to Brandon Allen. Allen was banged up in Week 13 before playing again in Week 14, but has missed practice all week and was ruled out for Week 15, giving the job back to Finley. The Steelers D/ST will likely be a very popular DFS pick. Cincinnati will be fortunate to do anything on offense.

Seahawks RB Rashaad Penny (knee) is set to make his season debut in Week 15 against the Washington Football Team.

Penny is finally back after tearing his ACL near the end of last season, but coach Pete Carroll has been very happy with how Penny has been looking recently in practice. Penny will likely work in with Carlos Hyde backing up and spelling Chris Carson, but it will still be good to see him on the field in any capacity.

Raiders QB Derek Carr suffered a significant groin injury and it’s expected to have a 10-to-14 day timeline, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Marcus Mariota looked excellent in relief of Carr and could start if he is not ready for their Week 16 game next Saturday.

Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott is questionable for Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic.

Elliott is expected to play, but the calf bothered him more this week than last, so that is something to monitor Sunday.

49ers WR Deebo Samuel will not play Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic.

This was expected. Since Samuel has not been placed on IR, he has to receive an injury designation.

Saints WR Michael Thomas will not play Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Well then. Good thing Drew Brees is back, or maybe this is why Brees is back. Look for Emmanuel Sanders and Tre'Quan Smith to see a heavy workload at receiver.

Texans WR Brandin Cooks practiced in full Friday and will play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, according to the team's official injury report.

Getting Cooks is a big boost for Deshaun Watson and company. The Colts defense have been susceptible to opposing offenses of late.

Texans RB Duke Johnson is questionable for Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts, according to the team's official injury report.

C.J. Prosise is also questionable, so the Texans would rely on Buddy Howell to spell David Johnson.

49ers RB Raheem Mostert does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.

This is the same ankle that has given Mostert trouble for weeks. If you can play another back ahead of Mostert, try. If not, he falls into the RB3/Flex range assuming he is used.

Bengals QB Brandon Allen did not practice Friday, according to Jay Morrison of The Athletic.

Allen has a miniscule chance of playing Monday night against the Steelers. Ryan Finley would start if Allen is out.

Lions QB Matthew Stafford is officially questionable for Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans, according to the team's official injury report.

Stafford is a difficult play short of Superflex and 2-QB leagues. Check back Sunday for official inactives.

Steelers RB James Conner was limited during Friday's practice, according to the team's official injury report.

Conner has one more day to get work in prior to Monday's game against the CIncinnati Bengals.

Patriots RBs Damien Harris and James White are questionable to play Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, according to the team's official injury report.

The Pats' best true runner and pass-catching back will be needed to beat Miami Sunday. No one is eager to see Sony Michel lead New England's backfield.

Dolphins RB Salvon Ahmed is questionable for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots, according to Cameron Wolfe of ESPN.

The Dolphins backfield is expected to have Matt Breida back as well, so expect a split workload for Ahmed in his return.

Vikings RB Alexander Mattison is questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, according to Chad Graff of The Athletic.

Mattison has missed multiple weeks, which is expected with an appendectomy. If he does play Sunday, it would be tough to see him returning to his full-time backup role.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph will not play Sunday against the Chicago Bears, according to Chad Graff of The Athletic.

Irv Smith Jr. SZN is back in time for the holidays!

Cardinals RB Chase Edmonds will be a game-time decision Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, according to Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.

With Edmonds expected to be limited if he plays, Eno Benjamin and/or D.J. Foster could find a way into playing time.

Cardinals K Zane Gonzalez will miss his second consecutive game this week when the Cardinals host the Philadelphia Eagles, according to Darren Urban of the Arizona Cardinals.

Mike Nugent will reprise his role as the team's kicker.

Giants TE Evan Engram is questionable for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, according Dan Salomone of the New York Giants.

The Giants need Engram healthy to have a chance this week. Engram is a back-end TE1 this week.

Giants QB Daniel Jones is questionable for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns, according to Dan Salomone of the New York Giants.

Related Player: Colt McCoy

Jones looked every bit of questionable in last Sunday's start. The Browns can get after the QB, and a hobbled Jones would be in for a long day.

Bears TE Jimmy Graham is questionable for Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, according to the team's official injury report.

Graham has been passed on the depth chart by Cole Kmet. Unless Graham is catching red zone targets, he has no value in fantasy football.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters Friday that TE Austin Hooper is questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.

Stefanski feels good about Hooper playing, which is good news as the Giants defense has been better as of late.

Browns TE David Njoku did not practice Friday and is questionable for Week 15 against the Giants, according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.

Austin Hooper should be back this week, which would have diminished Njoku's role after a serviceable Week 14.

Colts TE Mo-Alie Cox is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, according to Zak Keefer of The Athletic.

Keefer thinks Cox has a chance to suit up despite the myriad of injuries he has had and played through this season. If not, Trey Burton and Jack Doyle with split tight end duties.

Washington Football Team RB Antonio Gibson is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks, according to John Keim of ESPN.

Look for J.D. McKissic to bare the brunt of the running back duties, with Peyton Barber sprinkled in.

Washington Football Team QB Alex Smith will not play Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Dwayne Haskins will start in his place.

While Smith has been a better QB in limited comparisons to Haskins this season, WR Terry McLaurin has played well with the second-year signal caller. There is also a chance that RB Antonio Gibson plays this week as well.

Ravens head coach told reporters that WR Marquise Brown is "on track" to return from the reserve/COVID list prior to Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Miles Boykin and James Proche are also on the same trajectory as Brown. The Jaguars should not put up much of a fight against the Ravens, but a healthy trio of receivers after run-ins with COVID is good news.

Dolphins head coach Brian Flores told reporters Friday that WRs DeVante Parker and Jakeem Grant, as well as TE Mike Gesicki will be questionable for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.