October 2024 4for4 Player News Articles

The Jets are placing WR Allen Lazard on Injured Reserve because of a chest injury, sources say. Aaron Rodgers’ good friend and trusted target is out at least four games.

Related Players: Garrett Wilson, Davante Adams, Mike Williams, Malachi Corley

The long-awaited Mike Williams trade feels very unlikely to happen now, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's a fantasy target, either. Lazard is an easy drop anywhere he's dangling on the roster bubble, and we should see some heightened red-zone usage out of Wilson, Adams, and Tyler Conklin moving forward.

Browns TE David Njoku missed practice today with his ankle injury. He missed 3 games with it earlier this season.

Related Players: Cedric Tillman, Jerry Jeudy, Jordan Akins

It would be a huge bummer if Njoku were forced to miss time after putting up great back-to-back performances sans Watson at quarterback. Jordan Akins would be interesting for deep leagues in this scenario, though he only crested 9.0 half-PPR points in one game during Njoku's absence.

DT Jalen Carter (shoulder) and G Landon Dickerson (knee) are at Eagles practice. Neither practiced on Wednesday.

TE Dallas Goedert (hamstring) and CB Darius Slay (groin) are still absent.

Related Players: Grant Calcaterra

It's looking like another Calcaterra week, which can be ignored in nearly all fantasy formats. Calcaterra crested 50 yards last week but delivered a 1-5-0 line back in Week 7. If Goedert is cleared before Week 9, he is very startable against a soft Jaguars defense.

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (back/knee) is not practicing for a second straight day. Ravens HC John Harbaugh described yesterday as a “rest” day for Jackson, but he’s not out there again today. With two games in five days, Jackson’s status obviously becoming a storyline.

Related Players: Josh Johnson

After John Harbaugh announced it was a "rest day" yesterday, it was revealed that he was dealing with a "back/knee" ailment, so this might be turning into something a little more worrisome for his Week 9 availability. All pass-catchers would receive a downgrade if Jackson is out of the lineup, though Derrick Henry could be tasked with a larger workload. We'll keep an eye on the situation as we head toward the weekend.

Bengals WR Tee Higgins (quad) not practicing for the second day but is here for rehab work.

Related Players: Ja'Marr Chase, Andrei Iosivas, Trenton Irwin, Mike Gesicki

If Higgins misses more time, expect Chase's target share to skyrocket, while Iosivas would once again be an interesting deep-league Flex play option, while Gesicki returns to TE streamer range.

Rookie RB Tyrone Tracy has progressed in the concussion protocol and is practicing in a red jersey. Will be a limited participant, per Brian Daboll.

“Trending in the right direction.”

Related Players: Devin Singletary, Eric Gray

He was reported as "in the early stages" just yesterday, so this is obviously much better news 24 hours later. Singletary should be considered a fringe RB2/3 if Tracy misses, but the rookie would be a locked in RB2 if he goes.

Patriots OC Alex Van Pelt says the team is going into the week open-minded about the QB situation.

Van Pelt says he's very hopeful that things keep going the way they're progressing with rookie QB Drake Maye in concussion protocol.

Otherwise, Van Pelt won't discuss injuries.

Related Players: Jacoby Brissett

Looks like they're going to run this down to the wire after it was announced that Maye is in "phase three" of the five-phase protocol yesterday. If Brissett gets the start, all New England fantasy options get a downgrade.

Per Mike Macdonald, DK Metcalf won't practice for Seahawks today, but he's optimistic receiver will have a shot to practice tomorrow.

Related Players: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Tyler Lockett

This is a tough matchup against the Rams' secondary, but there's also a chance for a shootout not that L.A.'s pass-catchers are back to health. JSN remains an interesting Flex play, while Lockett can't be trusted at this point.

Derek Carr was on a "little bit" of a pitch count for Wednesday's practice, but is still expected to start Sunday, Dennis Allen said.

Related Players: Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener

Good news for the Saints as they try to claw their way back into playoff talks. This would be great for Chris Olave, who has a very cushy matchup against the Panthers secondary this week.

Even with Andy Dalton healthy, the Panthers will stick with Bryce Young as their starting quarterback Sunday against the Saints.

This is a downgrade for all Carolina pass-catchers, while Young is also a stay-away for your lineups.

Raiders TE Brock Bowers had an X-ray after Sunday's game but coach Antonio Pierce said the rookie checked out fine and there are no worries there.

Related Players: Harrison Bryant

Bowers, the team's de facto WR1, should be jammed into any and all lineups in Week 9.

RB Tyrone Tracy is in the “early stages” of the concussion protocol, per Brian Daboll. Will do some work on the side with trainers at Wednesday’s practice.

Related Players: Devin Singletary, Eric Gray

Not a good look for Tracy's potential Week 9 availability. If he misses the game, we can consider Singletary a fringe RB2/3 in fantasy once again.

#Raiders HC Antonio Pierce said RB Alexander Mattison remains the starter.

C Andre James (ankle) won't practice today. G Dylan Parham (foot) will.

Related Players: Zamir White

Mattison will hold onto the role for now, but it's not the most lucrative position for fantasy points. Consider him a fringe RB2/3 for Week 9.

Jaguars coach Doug Pederson tells reporters that he "feels good" that RB Travis Etienne Jr., dealing with a hamstring injury, will be back this week.

Related Players: Tank Bigsby, D'Ernest Johnson

Bigsby has been one of the more valuable waiver wire additions this season, but Etienne's return would obviously put a damper on things. Each figure to eat into the other's fantasy value in a tough matchup against the Eagles front in Week 9.

Embattled Lions receiver Jameson Williams has another issue to deal with.

Currently serving a two-game PED suspension, Williams faces a charge for carrying a concealed weapon in a motor vehicle.

Via WXYZ.com, the Detroit Police Department is looking into why Williams wasn’t formally arrested at the time of the incident.

On October 8, Williams was a passenger in a car his brother was driving. The vehicle was pulled over, for speeding. Two guns were in the car; one was registered to Williams’s brother, and one was registered to Williams, the story said. The story added, Williams will be facing both prosecution by authorities and a potential suspension by the league.

According to KPRC 2 Sports’ Aaron Wilson, Nico Collins is trending upward entering Week 9’s matchup against the New York Jets. While he can’t be cleared off the injured reserve until Nov. 4, the expectation is he’ll be good to go when the Detroit Lions arrive in Week 10.

Collins was placed on the injured reserve following Week 5’s win over the Buffalo Bills after tweaking his hamstring in the first quarter. Week 9 will be his fourth game missed. The timing couldn't be better for the Texans, who have now lost Stefon Diggs for the season with a torn ACL.

Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports, though, reports the Panthers have no plans to trade cornerback Jaycee Horn or running back Chuba Hubbard.

Hubbard has played very well at RB and has been a pretty consistent player for his fantasy owners this season. He's averaged over 17 touches per game. However, owners need to remember that Jonathon Brooks is lurking on the IR and should be back sooner than later. It only makes sense for the Panthers to give Brooks work as the season goes on. He'll likely be eased into thing at first, but it seems like it's always been expected Brooks would at the very least split work, if not take on the lead back role for the Panthers.

While the Colts are benching Anthony Richardson for Joe Flacco, they’re not planning for this to be permanent.

That’s according to Stephen Holder of ESPN, who noted on Tuesday that a team source explained that Indianapolis wants Richardson to take a step back, take a break from the day-to-day pressures of being the starter, and try to grow.

“We are not quitting on Anthony,” Holder’s source told him. “That will be the story, but that is not the case.”

The story added that Richardson was pretty devastated by the news, so it remains to be seen how he takes things going forward. The Colts feel Flacco gives them the best chance to win at this point as they sit at 4-4 on the season and certainly in the think of the playoff race as things stand now.

Trade: Carolina is sending wide receiver Diontae Johnson to the Baltimore Ravens, sources tell ESPN.

Related players: Zay Flowers, Mark Andrews, Rashod Bateman, Adam Thielen, Xavier Legette, Jonathan Mingo

The Panthers get a 5th round pick. It didn't take the Panthers long after rumors were starting to circulate Johnson was in play. The landing spot in Baltimore is interesting to say the least. The big question is will the Ravens consistently throw the ball enough with Travis Henry and Lamar Jackson for Johnson, Flowers and Andrews to keep their fantasy value. It remains to be seen who takes the biggest hit to their value, but the odds seem to favor Flowers here. Meanwhile in Carolina, Thielen is about to return but it's likely time to see what Legette and Mingo can do for the Panthers and the future of their offense.

Wide receiver Stefon Diggs’s first season with the Texans is reportedly over.

Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans announced on Tuesday that Diggs has been diagnosed with a torn ACL. Diggs left Sunday’s win over the Colts with a knee injury and went for further tests over the last couple of days.

Related players: Nico Collins, Tank Dell, John Metchie, Xavier Hutchinson, Robert Woods, Steven Sims, Dalton Schultz

Diggs had been ruled out of Thursday's game with the Jets but the hope was he'd be able to come back after that. As for the Texans offense, the injury comes at a time when Collins is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, so a once-deep Texans receiving corps has been thinned out considerably, the story pointed out. Dell, Metchie, Hutchinson, Woods and Sims are the remaining receivers on the 53-man roster until Collins can make his return. Schultz, the TE, should be move involved at least in the short term. The hope is Collins is back in Week 10 as reports say he's been trending in the right direction.

A QB change for the Colts: Indianapolis is benching former first-round pick Anthony Richardson and turning to veteran Joe Flacco.

Schefter added the Colts coaches met this morning and made the decision. The signs were there after HC Shane Steichen said everything will be evaluated. Reports Monday said the team also met privately with Richardson after he took himself out of the game this past week because of needing a break. It's not really clear if this is a one-week benching or more long term. The Colts are in the thick of things sitting at 4-4 and likely feel that Flacco gives them a better chance to win and remain in the hunt for a playoff spot.

The 2-6 Giants are not yet making a quarterback change.

Coach Brian Daboll told reporters on Tuesday that Daniel Jones remains the starting quarterback going forward.

Related players: Drew Lock, Tommy DeVito

The Giants host the Commanders on Sunday. The story mentioned that at some point, the Giants will likely bench Jones in order to avoid his $23 million injury guarantee for 2025. They’re apparently not at that point yet, the story added. The other options behind Jones are Lock and DeVito.

The Jacksonville Jaguars received some good news on Monday. They may not be without their best receiver for very long -- and maybe not even at all.

Brian Thomas Jr. suffered a chest contusion in Sunday's loss to the Green Bay Packers, but an MRI showed no additional damage.

Coach Doug Pederson said on Monday that there's a chance the rookie could play in Sunday's game at Philadelphia, the story said. Thomas leads the team in receiving yards (573) and touchdowns (five). Thomas' play will come down to pain tolerance, but he's listed as day to day, which gives him a shot to suit up. It was previously reported Thomas could miss 2-4 weeks.

Losing Christian Kirk means a bigger role for Parker Washington, a sixth-round pick in 2023. Last season, Washington didn't capitalize on the opportunity when he had to replace an injured Kirk as the Jaguars' primary slot receiver, but the team has no doubt he can now.

Washington was up and down last season when having a chance to get regular snaps. He had two TDs but also missed a route adjustment that led to Trevor Lawrence getting injured. Washington did have a great offseaosn, according to the story, and the team is confident Washington can step up with Kirk out for the season. Those needing help at WR may want to take a gamble on at least stashing Washington.

Giants rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. told me as he was exiting the locker room that he is in the concussion protocol, so he was unavailable to answer questions due to the protocol's policy.

Related players: Devin Singletary

Tracy Jr. had a career night with 145 yards and a TD in losing effort, the post went on to say. Tracy has looked like the real deal and was running head of veteran Singletary on Monday night. The trend has been for players to miss their next game when in protocol, so Tracy's status for Week 9 is certainly in doubt at this point. But, he looks to have taken over as the Giants RB1, so when he returns he will likely remain a solid fantasy play in lineups again. The Giants host the Commanders in Week 9 in an earlier Sunday contest so owners should have plenty of time to adjust lineups if Tracy's status comes down to the wire.

Sources: There’s a growing belief around the NFL that the Panthers are increasingly likely to trade WR Diontae Johnson before the trade deadline.

Related players: Adam Thielen, Xavier Legette, Jonathan Mingo, Jalen Coker

Multiple contending teams are interested, though determining Johnson’s value has been challenging with him in the last year of his contract, the post went on to say. There isn't much reason to keep Johnson in Carolina. He's certainly flashed this year, but it was only with Andy Dalton under center. The Panthers would be able to give the snaps and targets to Legette and Mingo, who were early picks each of the last two seasons in the NFL Draft. Johnson going to a potential contender with a veteran QB would be a huge boost to his fantasy value.

After Greg Zuerlein missed two kicks in Sunday’s loss to the Patriots, Jets interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich said that he had no regrets about sticking with Zuerlein despite several other missed kicks that have played major roles in several of the team’s losses this season.

Ulbrich’s lack of regret isn’t keeping the team from looking at other options as they head into Thursday night’s game against the Texans, the story said. Ulbrich said at a Monday press conference that the team is “going to bring the kickers in for a workout” on Tuesday and then decide who will handle the duties. Zuerlein owners may want to take notice. At the very least, this is just a possible wake-up call for Zuerlein, but it's also possible the team makes a switch before Thursday's game.

Speaking for the first time since suffering a dislocated left ankle in Week 7, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin said Monday night at an event for his foundation that the "best-case scenario" would be a return in time for the playoffs, but that he's focused on taking things "day by day" for now.

The story said Godwin showed up to his Team Godwin Foundation Gala on Monday night to raise money for animals affected by Hurricane Milton and other natural disasters. While a return to the playoffs won't help fantasy owners for the rest of this fantasy season, those in keeper leagues or dynasty leagues can at least take from this that Godwin should be good to go for the 2025 season, based on this potential timeline.

The Houston Texans offense was already shorthanded at wide receiver with Nico Collins on injured reserve, and now it seems like they'll be down another key outlet for C.J. Stroud. Wideout Stefon Diggs suffered a non-contact knee injury during Sunday's Week 8 win over the Indianapolis Colts and is not expected to play when the team travels to New York to play the Jets, according to NFL Media.

Related players: Tank Dell, Robert Woods, Xavier Hutchinson, John Metchie, Dalton Schultz, Joe Mixon

This is a tight turnaround for Diggs as the Texans open up Week 9 on Thursday night, which makes a possible return to the field difficult, even if the injury isn't as serious as it looked on the field, the story said. The team did not practice Monday, but the initial injury report of the week -- albeit a projection -- notes that Diggs would've been a nonparticipant, the story went on to say. With no Collins and Diggs, Dell looks like he could be the top WR target against the Jets. Schultz and Mixon could also get more involved in the passing game.

Mike MacDonald again says it's “looking optimistic" that DK Metcalf will be back this week.

The post added the team will first need to see Metcalf practice this week, so it will be important for fantasy owners to monitor his status. The Seahawks host the Rams in Week 9, but it's a later afternoon game on Sunday, so owners will need a backup plan in the event Metcalf is a game-time call. He's dealing with a low-grade MCL sprain.

49ers expecting to get WR Jauan Jennings (hip) back after the bye, per Kyle Shanahan.

The Niners should be as close to full strength on offense as they'll ever be this year, only missing Brandon Aiyuk. Jennings should slide into the team's WR2 role as the Niners are expecting Deebo Samuel back as well. Factor in the return of Christian McCaffrey and San Francisco will be poised for a run in the second half of the season. The returning weapons should also boost QB Brock Purdy's fantasy value as well.

49ers plan to open Christian McCaffrey IR window next Monday.

Related players: Jordan Mason

Reports say CMC is really planning to ramp up in order to be back for their Week 10 match at Tampa Bay. The bye week is certainly hitting at the right time and the team will be looking to see if he responds well to this week's hard work to simulate practice, the post added.

Deebo Samuel will be day-to-day with an injury to his ribs and an oblique strain, Kyle Shanahan said.

He’ll be re-evaluated after the bye, the post went on to say. Hopefully Samuel will be good to go for Week 10. Several 49ers are expected back at that point so the bye week is coming at a great time for the team. The Niners will be an early Sunday game at Tampa Bay in Week 10.

An MRI confirmed optimism about Jordan Love’s status: He’ll be day to day and has a shot to play Sunday.

Related players: Malik Willis

The injury wasn't believed to be all that serious as of earlier today, but Love now being day to day gives him a shot to play in Week 9. The Packers do have a bye in Week 10, perhaps giving them a reason to sit Love in Week 9 and give him the extra week of rest before coming back for Week 11. Owners will want to continue to monitor Love's status this week as he could end up playing. The Packers do have a later Sunday home game against the Lions and they then play the Bears in Week 11.

Texans receiver Stefon Diggs had to exit Sunday’s win over the Colts with a non-contact right knee injury in the third quarter.

Head coach DeMeco Ryans did not have much of an update on the injury’s severity after the game and that was the same case on Monday.

“For Diggs, we’re still evaluating,” Ryans said in his press conference. “We’ll see where he is.”

Related players: Nico Collins, Tank Dell, Robert Woods, Xavier Hutchinson, John Metchie, Dalton Schultz

Diggs was able to walk off the field under his own power before going to get X-rays, the story said. The Texans are hurting at WR with Collins on IR. If Diggs has to miss time, Dell, Woods, Hutchinson and Metchie are next up on the depth chart. TE Schultz could see more targets and finished with a 4-52-0 line. Dell added 4-35-1 in the game and RB Joe Mixon had four catches from the RB position.

Dennis Allen noted that Bub Means will miss time due to a high-ankle sprain.

Related players: Chris Olave, Mason Tipton, Cedrick Wilson, Alvin Kamara, Taysom Hill

With Olave back in action last week, Means was still the team's WR2, but with him now missing time, Tipton and Wilson look to be next up on the depth chart. The good news for the Saints is QB Derek Carr has a chance to play in Week 9. Olave went for a line of 8-107-0 and was targeted 14 times. Kamara was targeted 11 times and had a 6-55-0 line. Expect Kamara to continue to be heavily used in the passing game.

Head coach Dennis Allen said in his Monday press conference that he’s optimistic about Derek Carr’s potential return this weekend.

“Derek Carr had a throwing session again today, looked good in the throwing session,” Allen said. “I would expect him to be back out at practice again on Wednesday. And then we’ll go from there and see what his availability is this week. But I’m optimistic about it.”

Related players: Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener

Carr has been out since suffering an oblique injury against the Chiefs in Week 5. Rattler started the last three games for New Orleans, though he was benched in the second half of Sunday’s loss to the Chargers for Haener. The Saints looked dominant over their first two games but have since dropped six-straight. In five games this year, Carr has completed 70.3 percent of his throws for 989 yards with eight touchdowns and four interceptions, the story said.

Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson asked to come out of Sunday’s loss to the Texans for a play because he “needed a break” after doing a lot of running on the two previous plays.

Shane Steichen was asked at his press conference if Anthony Richardson will be the starting quarterback against the Vikings this week.

“We’re evaluating everything,” Steichen said, via multiple reporters.

Related players: Joe Flacco

Richardson reportedly needed a break during Week 8 action. Richardson missed two games with an oblique injury earlier this year and has completed 44.4 percent of his passes with four touchdowns and seven interceptions in his six starts, the story said. Flacco would presumably return to the starting lineup if the Colts decide that it is time to make a change, the story added.

Titans quarterback Will Levis is getting closer to returning from his shoulder injury — and there’s a chance it could happen this week.

“We’ll see where he’s at. I’m optimistic he’s in a better place after some rest,” head coach Brian Callahan said in his Monday press conference. “He’s probably going to take another day or two of some rest and we’ll see what he looks like Wednesday. So, I can’t comment with any certainty what’ll be the case."

Related players: Mason Rudolph

The Titans will need to see what they have in Levis and give him as much time as they can the rest of the season, especially sitting at 1-6 so far this year. The team just traded WR DeAndre Hopkins to Kansas City and will again look toward the future. Rudolph filled in the last two weeks with Levis sidelined, but won't be more than a backup option going forward. Levis hasn't been great and the Titans will likely have some decisions to make heading into next year. In his five starts this season, Levis has completed 66.4 percent of his throws for 699 yards with five touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr. could miss 2-4 weeks with a chest/rib injury suffered Sunday, per sources.

Related player: Evan Engram, Gabe Davis, Parker Washington, Devin Duvernay, Travis Etienne

Scans today will determine full extent and next steps, though. Thomas is also getting a second opinion, Fowler went on to say. It's not good news for Trevor Lawrence and the Jags who also just lost Christian Kirk for the season. With Thomas looking likely to be sidelined, it means Engram is probably the team's top target with Davis and Washington highly in the mix. It could also mean Etienne is involved much more in the passing game until Thomas can return. The Jags are also at 2-6 and there have already been talk of the team unloading some of their talent, and Etienne specifically has been mentioned in rumors.

Packers QB Jordan Love is dealing with a groin injury that is considered minor, however, Love's status for Week 9 is in doubt.

Related players: Malik Willis

If Love sits out Week 9, and with the bye in Week 10, he could hopefully be ready to go for Week 11, which is a big game at the Bears in the early slate of games that Sunday. Willis played well filling in for Love earlier this season, so it would seem to make sense the Packers wouldn't push Love to play this week, instead opting to give him two weeks off. Love's status should still be monitored this week, but given the way this sets up, Love owners may want to start planning ahead now.

Ian Rapoport is reporting the 49ers are still targeting Week 10 for RB Christian McCaffrey's return.

Related players: Jordan Mason, Isaac Guerendo

The Niners have a bye in Week 9 and we reported last week it was looking positive for CMC to return to the field for Week 10, which is an early Sunday game at the Buccaneers. Rapoport has said CMC has been ramping up and so far there have been no setbacks, and that continues to be a target date. It's possible CMC is heavily involved in the pass game with all the injuries to the Niners WRs up to this point.

Bryce Young started because of Andy Dalton's sprained thumb, and after the game, Panthers head coach Dave Canales said he wanted to wait a few days and gauge Dalton's ability to grip and throw a football before making any decisions on next week's starter for the home rematch against the Saints.

"We will look at all the information," Canales said when asked who would start next week. "We'll look at Andy's health over the next couple of days, and we'll make that decision, and we'll have an answer for you."

Dalton was involved in a car accident in the days leading up to the game, which kept him out of action. Young got the call and was a mix of good and bad, throwing for two TDs but also throwing two interceptions as well. He was without his best WR in Diontae Johnson as well. The Panthers host the Saints in Week 9 in what will be a favorable matchup for whoever gets the start. It does seem like Dalton's injury and his ability to grip the ball will be a big factor in the team's decision, but the Panthers may be best to see what Young can do against a struggling Saints team. It will be worth monitoring Dalton's injury status this week. The teams play an early Sunday game in Week 9.

The Jags may be even more short-handed, as stellar rookie Brian Thomas Jr. will have an MRI on his ribs to determine his status for the week, source said.

Related players: Gabe Davis, Parker Washington, Devin Duvernay, Tim Jones

Thomas wasn't able to get back on the field after putting up a line of 3-60-1 last week. The Jags are already with Christian Kirk heading into a game with the Eagles. The bit of good news is the Eagles-Jags game was flexed out of Sunday night, so owners will have a little bit more time to figure out a backup plan should Thomas come down to a game-time call. The game is now in the later Sunday window. Rib injuries can be tricky, so owners will want to monitor this all week.

Jaguars WR Christian Kirk suffered a broken collarbone during Sunday’s game against the Packers.

Kirk is expected to miss the rest of the season as a result. Kirk had become the No. 2 wide receiver behind rookie Brian Thomas. He had two catches for 59 yards in the loss. Gabe Davis also left the game with a shoulder injury so Parker Washington saw more work while the Jags involved both of their top tight ends, Evan Engram and Brenton Strange — the two combined for eight catches for 95 yards. The Jaguars visit Philadelphia next week.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said there is “obviously a high level of concern” regarding the groin injury for quarterback Jordan Love.

Love left in the middle of Green Bay’s 30-27 win over the Jaguars. He went 14-of-23 for 196 yards with an interception before leaving. He has already missed time this season with a knee injury. Malik Willis finished the game and led the drive that resulted in the game-winning field goal. The Packers host the Lions next week before their bye in Week 10.

Patriots quarterback Drake Maye left Sunday’s game against the Jets as he was being evaluated for a concussion.

Head coach Jerod Mayo said after the game Maye wanted to return, “the competitor he is”, as Mayo put it, but he has to go through protocol. Jacoby Brissett came on in relief and led New England to a last-minute score and a 25-22 win. The Patriots head to Nashville next week for a date with the Titans.

The Dolphins officially activated quarterback Tua Tagovailoa from injured reserve Saturday.

The move was a formality after head coach Mike McDaniel announced Friday Tagovailoa cleared concussion protocol and will start Sunday against the Cardinals. He is still listed as questionable but is fully expected to play. The Dolphins hope Tagovailoa’s return will give them the spark they need on offense. Tim Boyle was released in a corresponding move.

Bengals WR Tee Higgins is listed as questionable for Sunday with a quad injury.
Higgins was limited in practice today and his status will be monitored through the weekend.
Left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. (knee) and safety Geno Stone (shin) both went full today and do not have a game status.

Related Players: Ja'Marr Chase, Andrei Iosivas, Trenton Irwin

If Higgins misses more time, expect Chase's target share to skyrocket, while Iosivas would once again be an interesting Flex play option.

Chris Olave has been cleared from the concussion protocol

Related Players: Bub Means, Mason Tipton, Cedrick Wilson

Olave should return to his tole as the WR1, but it still looks like Spencer Rattler will be out there, which slots him somewhere around a fantasy WR3.

Andy Reid says WR JuJu Smith Schuster (hamstring) and DE Mike Danna (pectoral) won’t play Sunday vs Raiders. Deandre Hopkins likely will play.

Related Players: Xavier Worthy, Mecole Hardman, Justin Watson

We would put the odds quite high that Hopkins suits up, but it's fair to question how much he'll be involved right out of the gate. He's an interesting desperation play in Week 8, but with no byes, your team would really be banking on a high-risk, moderate-reward outcome. Worthy projects as a fringe WR2/3.

Browns game status for Week 8 vs. Ravens

Wyatt Teller - questionable
Jerome Ford, Ronnie Hickman, Jordan Hicks and Jedrick Wills Jr. - out

Related Players: Nick Chubb, Pierre Strong Jr.

Chubb is set to continue taking a big piece of the backfield pie here, but it's doubtful he gets to a huge workload for another week or two. Consider him an RB3 option in Week 8.

The Panthers ruled out WRs Diontae Johnson (rib) and WR Adam Thielen (hamstring), while QB Andy Dalton (right thumb) is doubtful.

So it'll be Bryce Young throwing to backup receivers on Sunday in Denver.

Related Players: Xavier Legette, Jonathan Mingo, David Moore, Jalen Coker

It's probably not a good idea to start any Panthers players this week, and that likely includes Chuba Hubbard.

Commanders coach Dan Quinn told reporters that Jayden Daniels did wind up practicing today and "we really pushed it"

They'll evaluate his status over the next 48 hours, but could be determined on Sunday.

Related Players: Marcus Mariota

It's a good idea to have a backup plan for Week 8, as Daniels seems like he could go either way at this point. He's a start if he gets cleared in time.

Todd Bowles says RB Bucky Irving (toe) is in play for Sunday. Confirms both WR Mike Evans (hamstring) and S Tykee Smith (concussion) have been ruled out.

Related Players: Rachaad White, Sean Tucker

A murky backfield situation gets even murkier. At this point, it's hard to trust any of the options heading into Week 8. Even if White operates as the RB1, that still makes him an RB3 for fantasy purposes.

Tua Tagovailoa has been cleared through concussion protocol.

He will play Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.

Related Players: Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, De'Von Achane, Skylar Thompson

We are so back. Tua has a great matchup, and can be considered as a low-end QB1 for managers who are looking to stream him in his first game back. Hill returns to WR1 consideration with the upside for a top-3 weekly finish, while Waddle managers can shake off the cobwebs and stick him in as a WR2.

Bills HC Sean McDermott said he doesn't think WR Curtis Samuel will need to go on IR, but he could miss more than just this week's game.

Related Players: Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Dalton Kincaid

Samuel has been a non-factor on a team- and fantasy-level this season. It's possible his missing slot usage adds a small boost to Shakir and/or Kincaid.

John Lynch on KNBR said Jauan Jennings is doubtful with his groin injury this week.

Related Players: Deebo Samuel, Ricky Pearsall, Jacob Cowing, George Kittle

If Deebo is good to go, we can assume the 49ers will be heavily targeting himself and Kittle this week in a good matchup. This makes both huge assets to fantasy squads, and rookie Ricky Pearsall is an interesting deep-league play in his second career game.

Jaguars injury updates: LT Cam Robinson has cleared concussion protocol. RB Travis Etienne (hamstring) will be a gametime decision. LB Foye Oluokon (foot) & S Andrew Wingard (knee) are trending well but no decision yet about whether they'll be activated vs. Packers.

Related Players: Tank Bigsby, D'Ernest Johnson

The Jaguars do kick off at 1:00, so that helps our lineup decisions quite a bit. If Etienne sits, slot Bigsby back in as a low-end RB2.

Now official: The Rams have activated Puka Nacua from injured reserve. Don’t expect him to play a normal snap count tonight, but another boost for L.A. nonetheless.

Related Players: Cooper Kupp, Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell

Signs point toward this being a heavy Cooper Kupp game, but it's obviously nice to see Nacua healthy enough to suit up. Keep Nacua on benches unless you're incredibly desperate, but things are looking up for the offense moving forward.

Vikings downgraded TE T.J. Hockenson to out for tonight’s game against the Rams. Hockenson’s return from a major knee injury 10 months ago now will wait.

Vikings officially will activate Hockenson on Friday and the plan is for him to play next week vs. the Colts, per source.

Related Players: Johnny Mundt

Just one more week until we can fire Hock back into lineups as a TE1.

Jonathan Taylor (ankle) and DeForest Buckner (ankle) both practiced FULL on Thursday.

Colts who haven’t practiced this week:

-Jaylon Carlies
-Genard Avery

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

If Taylor is indeed 100% heading into Houston, he should be back on RB1 radars.

Looks like #Eagles LB Zach Baun (shoulder) is back at practice in some capacity.

TE Dallas Goedert (hamstring) and G Mekhi Becton (concussion) are still out.

Related Players: Grant Calcaterra

Looks like Calcaterra might get another run as the TE1 but that worked out to a 1-5-0 line last week. If Goedert doesn't go in Week 8, we can safely ignore the situation.

No Bucky Irving at Bucs practice today, so that toe injury could definitely impact Sunday's game against the Falcons. Still have Rachaad White and Sean Tucker healthy, but the three-headed monster might not be fully active this week.

Rachaad White should be the RB1 if Irving misses, but don't count out Tucker to make a few plays of his own. White would be in RB2 territory with Tucker a low-end RB3.

Bad news: Zay Flowers (ankle) and Marlon Humphrey (knee) still missing from Ravens practice on Thursday.

Good news: CB Nate Wiggins (shoulder) and DT Travis Jones (ankle) are back.

Related Players: Rashod Bateman, Nelson Agholor, Mark Andrews

Things aren't trending in the right direction for Flowers' Week 8 availability, so we'll see if he can hit the field on Friday. Bateman can be considered a boom/bust WR3 this week, while Andrews is fully back in the top-7 conversation.

Sources: Lions WR Jameson Williams will not appeal his two-game suspension, and will therefore be OUT for Detroit’s Week 8 and Week 9 games vs the Titans and Packers.

Related Players: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond

Well, it's been fun while it's lasted, but Williams once again finds himself on the sideline for off-the-field issues. Patrick and/or Raymond profile as interesting desperation Flexes over the next two weeks.

Panthers WR Diontae Johnson (ribs) is not practicing again.

Related Players: Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker

Johnson sure has been dealing with a lot of ailments this season. He's borderline unstartable with Bryce Young back at the helm regardless, and even more so if he's limited in any capacity.

Still no Jayden Daniels. Has seemed like tomorrow will be the big day to see if the Commanders rookie QB can get some practice in before Sunday so we’ll see what’s up then.

Related Players: Marcus Mariota

Mariota wouldn't be worth a start in typical 1QB leagues if he goes, but he proved that the pass-catchers shouldn't be downgraded with his performance last week. We'll keep an eye on Daniels' status after tomorrow.

The MRI confirmed the initial diagnosis, with Bucs WR Mike Evans out at least four weeks (not games), but potentially back after the bye.

Related Players: Jalen McMillan, Cade Otton, Sterling Shephard, Trey Palmer

Terrible day of injuries for the Bucs, but at least they'll get Evans back this season. McMillan remains the highest upside target over the next month, while Otton is a good bet to remain a top-10 TE option.

Ravens RB Keaton Mitchell is participating in his first practice since suffering a season-ending knee injury in Week 15 of last year. Mitchell, who is on PUP, has started his 21-day window to return.

Related Players: Derrick Henry, Justice Hill

Still a long way from fantasy relevance, but his return could severely impact Justice Hill's status as a deep Flex option. We'll keep an eye on the situation but Mitchell can remain on waiver wires for now.

Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa, back at practice for the first time in 5 weeks

Related Players: Skyler Thompson, Tyler Huntley

This is fantastic news for the Dolphins offense (particularly Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle) in what should be a good matchup against the Cardinals defense. Tua can be considered a high end QB2 in his first week back.

Vikings RB Aaron Jones does not have an injury designation for TNF against the Rams. That's big.

Related Players: Ty Chandler

This is a good-to-great matchup for Jones, and he should be considered an RB1 heading into Thursday Night Football.

The Vikings are officially listing TE T.J. Hockenson as questionable for tomorrow's game against the Rams.

Related Players: Johnny Mundt

It's a great sign for Hockenson and the Vikings offense, but exercise caution in his first game back. If he plays, it could very well be on a limited basis.

Panthers QB Bryce Young will start Sunday vs. the Broncos.

With Andy Dalton sidelined after an auto accident, Young gets another chance at it. Don't start him, and push all the Panthers down your starting priority as well.

The Cleveland Browns will start Jameis Winston, per source.

This is great news for fantasy as Winston is an immediate upgrade to the QB position, and we know he will sling the ball around the yard. While this doesn't put him in startable territory, it does boost the floor of David Njoku, Jerry Jeudy, Elijah Moore, and Cedric Tillman.

Sources: Titans WR DeAndre Hopkins is being traded to the Chiefs in exchange for a 5th rounder that can get to a fourth rounder. Deal is being finalized.

A key veteran who could be the final piece, Hopkins name has been hot in the trade market. Now, he lands with the champs.

Related Players: Xavier Worthy, Justin Watson, Mecole Hardman, Juju Smith-Schuster, Calvin Ridley, Tyler Boyd

Even with the un-serious looking Chiefs wide receiver room over the last few weeks, they have remained undefeated. Though Patrick Mahomes has been trending toward the worst statistical performance of his career, it's hard to see why the fans/team would care if they just glide to the Super Bowl again.

This is an obvious boost for Mahomes' fantasy aspirations and puts Hopkins back on the WR2 radar in good matchups. This is also a boost to Calvin Ridley, but his ceiling is still extremely capped with poor quarterback play in a terrible offensive environment.

Panthers QB Andy Dalton was involved in a automobile accident today in Charlotte, according to a team spokesperson.

Related players: Bryce Young

He was traveling with his wife, three children and dog. No one was transported by emergency medic personnel, but Dalton is being evaluated by team medical personnel, the post went on to say. Obviously we all hope it's not a serious situation, but from a fantasy angle, if Dalton can't play Young would get the start at QB.

According to multiple reports, Deebo Samuel has been discharged from the hospital. Samuel left Sunday’s loss to the Chiefs with an illness and went to the hospital later that night.

Related players: Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell, Jacob Cowing

Head coach Kyle Shanahan said that Samuel had fluid in his lungs and described his condition as pneumonia. Shanahan said that the team will see how Samuel recovers over the coming days, but owners should probably have other plans in place, especially because the Niners are at home against the Cowboys on Sunday night.

The Buccaneers won’t put receiver Mike Evans on injured reserve immediately, hoping he can return after the off week for the Nov. 24 game against the Giants, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Evans is expected to miss the next three games, Stroud adds.

Related players: Sterling Shepard, Jalen McMillan, Trey Palmer

The Bucs play the Falcons, Chiefs and 49ers before their off week. As the story added, Evans aggravated his hamstring injury on a dropped pass in the end zone in the first half Monday night. With Godwin expected to be out for the year with a dislocated ankle, the Bucs WR group has got a whole lot smaller, and it now leaves Shepard, McMillan and Palmer as the team's top three. While any of the three can be picked up off waivers with the potential to produce fantasy points, it's three pretty tough matchups on the horizon for the Bucs.

Los Angeles has designated receiver Puka Nacua for return from injured reserve, opening his 21-day practice window.

He participated in Tuesday’s session.

Nacua has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury during the team’s loss to Detroit in Week 1. He caught four passes for 35 yards and took a 7-yard carry in the season-opener, the story said. There is no word about when Puka can take the field again, but the Rams are expected to have Cooper Kupp back for Thursday's game.

TheAthletic.com reports that the Rams have spoken to multiple teams about trading Cooper Kupp, who has been out since Week Two with an ankle injury.

Related players: Puka Nacua, Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell, Jordan Whittington, Tyler Johnson

Per the report, the Rams are looking for a second-round pick in return for the wideout and that they are open to pay some of Kupp’s remaining salary for the 2024 season as part of the deal, the story said. Kupp is expected to play Thursday night and that game could very week be a showcase for the veteran WR. There are several WR-needy teams at this point in the season and teams have been in contact with the Rams about Kupp, according to the story. The Rams have just two wins this season and Nacua has been designated to return from his injury. The team also has Atwell and Whittington who are still young but seem to be developing because of having to play the last several weeks.

Good injury news on the way. Taysom Hill, Cesar Ruiz, Pete Werner and Chris Olave could all be back this week.

The Saints are hurting with injuries on offense so getting back both Hill and Olave will be a big deal. The Saints visit the Chargers in Week 8 in what is a later Sunday game. Owners will want to monitor their status heading into the week, especially if they are trending toward a game-time call. The team is still unsure of the status of QB Derek Carr, but if Carr can't go it will be Spencer Rattler under center we reported Monday.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Media reports that the Raiders will sign Desmond Ridder off of Arizona’s practice squad. Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew are the only other quarterbacks on the active roster and they have rookie Carter Bradley on the practice squad.

The Raiders didn’t confirm that quarterback O’Connell will be placed on injured reserve with a fractured thumb on Monday, but they are making a roster move that makes it clear they are short of healthy quarterbacks this week, the story pointed out. Ridder is probably best left on wires in typical leagues, but of course in deeper two QB or superflex leagues, any quarterback is worth stashing away on your roster.

With the Vikings playing the Rams on Thursday night, it stands to reason that T.J. Hockenson will be activated this week. But head coach Kevin O’Connell did not commit to the tight end playing when asked about him and guard Dalton Risner — who is also returning from a back injury — on Monday.

“It’s early. We’ll make that determination kind of as these next couple of days [go by],” O’Connell said in his news conference. “As we put together game plans, we want to have a good feel for that. But, very much a possibility.”

The Vikings have been methodical in bringing back Hockenson from the torn ACL and MCL he suffered late last season. But his 21-day practice window is coming to a close, the story pointed out. Hock would be a nice boost for the Vikings and their offense. Even if he plays on Thursday, it would remain to be seen how much he's on the field and if he's on any kind of a pitch count, so it may be best to "wait-and-see" before putting him right in fantasy lineups for his first game back.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams is facing a suspension. Again.

Williams is reportedly set to be suspended for two games for violating the NFL's Performance-Enhancing Substances policy, according to ESPN's Eric Woodyward.

Related players: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kalif Raymond, Isaiah Williams, Tim Patrick, Sam LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs

Williams was also suspended for six games at the start of the 2023 season for violating the league's gambling policy when he made bets on sports at the Lions' facility, but not on the NFL, but the suspension was eventually reduced when the NFL changed its policy. He missed the first four games of the season, the story went on to say. With Williams out, Raymond, Williams and Patrick all move up the depth chart, but the Lions could end up giving more targets to TE LaPorta and RB Gibbs.

Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said postgame that the "early indication" is wide receiver Chris Godwin suffered an ankle dislocation in the team's 41-31 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Monday night.

"He's got an ankle, early indication is that it's dislocated," Bowles told reporters. "It doesn't look good."

Related players: Mike Evans, Sterling Shepard, Jalen McMillan, Trey Palmer, Cade Otton, Rachaad White, Bucky Irving

Bowles did not say whether Godwin was transported to a hospital after the game. Though the exact severity and recovery time for the injury is not yet known, Bowles' words indicate that the Buccaneers might have to prepare to be without one of their star receivers for a significant amount of time, the story went on to say. The problem for the Bucs is Evans also left the game with a hamstring injury. Assuming Evans and Godwin are out, the team will have to go with Shepard, McMillian and Palmer as their likely top-three WRs. TE Otton could also be a big factor going forward and had a big game on MNF. You can also expect the Bucs to continue to involve their RBs in the passing game as White caught six balls for 71 yards and two TDs with Irving catching three for 54 yards.

Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans scored his 100th career receiving touchdown in the first quarter. He departed for the locker room in the second quarter after re-injuring his hamstring.

Evans entered with a hamstring injury, missing two practices before returning to limited work in the Saturday session, the story said. Evans was in a lot of pain and slowly made his way to the locker room before being ruled out of the game. As the broadcast team said, the hope is Evans didn't do more damage to the injury, which could cause him to miss time or be placed on IR. We'll hopefully know more after the game or later in the week.

The illness that sidelined Deebo Samuel yesterday is pneumonia. He's in the hospital.

Related players: Brandon Aiyuk, Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell, Jacob Cowing, George Kittle

When the team realized Deebo had fluid in his lungs, he was sent to the hospital, Lombardi said in another post. Another beat writer, Nick Wagoner, reported Samuel was struggling to breathe which is why he wasn't in the game very long. Aiyuk is out for the season so the Niners now find themselves very thin at the WR position. There is no timetable for Samuel's return at this point. Reports say the team should get Jennings (hip) back in Week 8, but rookies like Pearsall and Cowing could very well be factors in the short term until Samuel is able to return.

After Sunday’s win over the Falcons, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said receiver DK Metcalf’s knee injury “doesn’t look too bad.”

There’s now some more clarity on Metcalf’s situation.

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, Metcalf suffered a Grade 1 MCL sprain and is considered week-to-week.

Metcalf, 26, has recorded 35 receptions for 568 yards with three touchdowns so far this season. The Seahawks host the Bills in Week 8 and the Rams in Week 9 before their Week 10 bye. Seattle will issue its first injury report of the week on Wednesday, the story said. Generally, week to week really puts into doubt a players status, so owners may want to begin thinking about another plan in the event Metcalf can't go. The looming bye week could easily mean the team at least sits him out one, if not two, weeks. But, as the story said, the injury report could give us a better idea. Metcalf is a later Sunday game so it could get tricky for adjusting lineups.

Sources: 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk suffered a season-ending knee injury on Sunday, tests confirmed.

Related players: Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Chris Conley, Ronnie Bell, Jacob Cowing, Trent Taylor, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey

Anyone who held on to Jennings should be in good shape as he will likely slide in as the team's WR2 behind Deebo. Jennings didn't play in Week 7 because of a hip injury but the team is hoping to have in back for Week 8, according to reports. Pearsall was active for the first time and caught three balls for 21 yards. Cowing had two catches for 50 yards. Both rookies could be options behind Samuel, Kittle and likely Jennings, but may not be consistent fantasy producers. We reported McCaffrey is looking to return on Nov. 10 and it's possible he's counted on as a receiver more than a rusher once he's back.

NBC’s Sunday Night Football will be in Minnesota in Week Nine.

The NFL announced today that the Colts-Vikings game on Sunday, November 3, which had previously been scheduled as a 1 p.m. ET kickoff, has been moved to the Sunday night slot.

The Jaguars-Eagles game that had been scheduled for Sunday night in Week 9 will move into the 4:05 p.m. kickoff window, the story said.

During Sunday’s win over the Vikings, Lions running back David Montgomery had to exit the contest in the first half due to a knee injury.

But Montgomery was able to come back in during the second half and contribute to the victory.

Related players: Jahmyr Gibbs

In his Monday news conference, head coach Dan Campbell said that there’s no long-term concern with Montgomery’s knee and he should be fine going forward, the story said. He was quoted as saying, “He’s good. Obviously, he had pain. And he knows it’s in that area around the knee. And it’s kind of in the back. So you’re trying to figure it out and it’s painful. And once we got him off, tested it, looked at it, he started feeling better." Monty was able to come back and had nine carries and three catches, but it was Gibbs who carried 15 times and added four receptions.

Dan Quinn said Jayden Daniels is week to week; he said they're "hopeful" he can play Sunday but will be smart about his return.

Related players: Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel

The week to week tag usually means a player will miss some time, but that remains to be seen and the team seems to think there may at least be a chance Daniels can go. Keep in mind this game was flexed to a later Sunday contest so owners will likely need a backup plan if they were hoping to play Daniels, especially if he ends up being a game-time call. Mariota came into play when Daniels left and looked pretty good, but it was against the Panthers. Mariota went18-for-23 for 205 yards and two TDs. He also ran 11 times for 34 yards.

Adam Thielen said he thinks the plan is to open his 21-day practice window on Wednesday.

Related players: Diontae Johnson, Xavier Legette, Jonathan Mingo

Thielen has missed the last four games the post went on to say. He's dealing with a hamstring injury. The Panther offense is struggling again, even under Andy Dalton, but Thielen's presence would be a welcome addition and perhaps be a reliable target for Dalton. He could also help to open things up for a frustrated Johnson. It remains to be seen if Thielen would play in Week 8, even if his window is opened this week.

Shane Steichen said he’s optimistic that DeForest Buckner and Jonathan Taylor could practice this week.

Related players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

Taylor has been out since Week 4 and it would be a good sign if he can get back on the practice field leading up to a big game against the Texans. Goodson led the team in RB carries over Sermon 14-8, although Sermon was a bit more productive and also added a catch for 13 yards. Taylor's return would be a welcome addition to the offense and we'll hopefully know more as the week goes on. The Texans-Colts game is an early Sunday game so owners will have time to adjust lineups.

Dennis Allen said Derek Carr had a throwing session today, will have another tomorrow and they'll see where he's at. Allen said the plan is to stick with Spencer Rattler at QB if Carr doesn't play.

The post added that Allen said he feels like Rattler has played well when he has protection. Chris Olave is in protocol but the hope is he can clear before Week 8's game at the Chargers. It's not a great matchup for Rattler, or even Carr if he's ready, and it will be an even tougher go if Olave isn't able to play.

Saints WR Chris Olave is still in the concussion protocol to begin this week, per Dennis Allen. Team had meetings Monday but no bonus practice after the mini-bye

Related players: Bub Means, Mason Tipton, Cedrick Wilson

Olave will need to practice symptom-free in order to come out of protocol. He didn't have much of a chance last week on a short week but the hope is he will be able to be back for Week 8. The Saints are hurting at the position with Means, Tipton and Wilson running at the top three. Reports say the team had Marquez Valdes-Scantling in for a visit.

Tua Tagovailoa is due back on the practice field this week.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel said that the team will begin the process of bringing Tagovailoa off of injured reserve. Tagovailoa has been on the list since suffering a concussion in Week Two and he will remain in the concussion protocol until he takes part in practices without feeling any symptoms during or after the workouts. If he does get cleared, he’ll be on track to play against the Cardinals.

McDaniel said the plan is for Tua to practice on Wednesday. He'll need to get through the practice symptom-free. “The clearing doesn’t come until after some of the activity. We’re obviously doing so in the hope of everything going well so that he can play Sunday, but that will be to be determined,” McDaniel said in the story. The story added, according to McDaniel, “medical experts have deemed it safe” for Tagovailoa to return to the field at this point and said Tagovailoa would have to answer whether he will wear a Guardian Cap upon his return to game action.

JuJu Smith-Schuster is the latest Chiefs wide receiver to suffer an injury.

Smith-Schuster was ruled out of Sunday’s win over the 49ers after he hurt his hamstring and head coach Andy Reid told reporters at a Monday press conference that he will not play against the Raiders in Week Eight.

Related players: Xavier Worthy, Mecole Hardman, Skyy Moore, Travis Kelce

The Chiefs will go with Worthy, Hardman and Moore as their top WRs heading into Week 8, which is a game at the Raiders. The Chiefs are winning games without a dangerous passing attack from Patrick Homes, instead controlling the ball with the run game and relying on their defense. That formula should work against a struggling Raiders team as well.

Titans' Callahan: DeAndre Hopkins had some lower leg/calf soreness.

Related players: Tyler Boyd, Calvin Ridley

Hopkins had just one catch for -2 yards in Week 7. Boyd and Ridley led the way with Hopkins hampered by the injury. To further complicate things, it's unclear who will start at QB for the Titans in Week 8, an earlier game at Detroit. Owners definitely want to monitor Hopkins' status leading up to the game. This is mostly an offense to stay away from in typical leagues.

Sean McVay said Cooper Kupp's workload for Thursday Night Football vs. Vikings is "to be determined."

Related players: Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell, Jordan Whittington, Tyler Johnson

The post went on to quote McVay, "That'll be something that as we're putting it together and really diving into it, we'll have a better feel for," McVay said. "But definitely excited to have him back." Kupp sounds like he could be a risky fantasy play this Thursday night, or, it could be coach-speak. The Rams sure could use Kupp back in the lineup but fantasy owners should probably be realistic about his fantasy potential - at least this week. The good news is the Rams will likely need to play catch-up against a good Vikiings offense on Thursday night. Johnson and Atwell led the way last week against the Raiders. Hopefully we'll get more indication about Kupp's usage for Week 8.

Brian Callahan said Will Levis' status is week to week. The problem with AC joint injuries, he said, is the only way for them to heal is with proper rest. Mason Rudolph said he doesn't know if he'll get a greater share of the reps heading into Week 8, and all he can do is "attack the reps (he's) given."

It sounds like Rudolph was put into a tough spot in Week 7. The story said Levis initially injured his shoulder in Week 4 against the Miami Dolphins. The Titans didn't have a game the next week, giving Levis 10 days of rest before starting the Week 6 game against the Colts. Callahan explained extra rest might've proved somewhat deceptive when it came to Levis' arm strength and ability, the story went on to say. Callahan went on to say Levis was feeling it a bit by the end of last week's Colts game and it was only Saturday did Rudolph find out he was starting. Things don't get much easier this week as the Titans travel to take on the Lions. It's unclear who will get the start at QB.

Brian Daboll reiterated what he said in his post-game presser yesterday: Daniel Jones is the starting QB for Giants "going forward" to Pittsburgh and MNF.

Related players: Drew Lock, Tommy DeVito

Daboll went on to say in the post that Jones gives Giants their best chance, and the issues were collective, not solely on Jones. Lock didn't do much better, so Jones gets at least one more chance against a tough Steelers defense in Week 8.

Raiders QB Aidan O’Connell now is expected to miss four to six weeks with a broken thumb, per sources. He is getting a second opinion today to confirm the initial diagnosis.

Related players: Gardner Minshew

Pro Football Talk is reporting O'Connell will be placed on IR. Minshew takes back over as the starting QB after O'Connell recently replaced him, but Minshew hasn't been great this season and threw three interceptions after taking over against the Rams. The Raiders will have to make a move for another QB to be added to the roster.

Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson’s season appears to be over, but how long his recovery takes after Sunday’s Achilles injury remains to be seen.

Watson has a ruptured Achilles tendon and will undergo surgery soon, according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.

Related players: Jameis Winston, Dorian Thompson-Robinson

What’s unclear is the nature of the surgery, with Watson considering both conventional surgery and a newer “speed bridge” procedure that can result in a faster return to action. That’s the surgery Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers had last season, and he was able to resume practicing faster than most players with Achilles tears, the story went on to say. DTR took over for Watson but injured his finger, forcing Winston to come in and finish the game. X-rays were negative on the finger, according to reports. There seems to be a good chance Winston will take over as the Browns QB, however. It will be worth monitoring this situation as the week goes on.

Commanders rookie QB sensation Jayden Daniels is undergoing tests today to determine the severity of his rib injury, per sources.

Related players: Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel

The good news is the initial tests on Sunday showed no fractures, but further tests today and possibly in the coming days will provide more clarity, the story went on to say. Daniels returned to the sidelines during the game and waved to fans, which seemed like good news. Other reports said Daniels was removed for precautionary reasons in a game that was well in control over the Panthers. We'll hopefully know more about the injury in the coming days, but rib injuries can be tricky. Mariota came in and did a nice job, and the Commanders host the Bears in Week 8 in a game that was moved to later in the day. In Week 9, they travel to play the Giants in an early Sunday game. Owners counting on Daniels this week may need a backup plan.

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf's knee injury doesn't appear to be serious, according to a report from Ian Rapoport.

Metcalf was carted off after banging his knee on a great catch in the game. HC Mike McDonald said about the injury, "It doesn't look too bad," according to Rapoport's report. Owners will have to monitor his status this week as there is no timetable. The Seahawks have a later Sunday game at home against the Bills. The team does have a bye in Week 10.

49ers RB Christian McCaffrey's target to return is early November. The Niners have a bye the first week of November, but November 10 could be a potential return date, according to Ian Rapoport.

Related players: Jordan Mason

Rapoport said CMC continues to ramp up. He's been running on flat ground and there is no reason to be pessimistic, and it's been all systems go up to this point, Rapoport said. It's good news for McCaffrey and a potential return. As far as fantasy goes, hopefully his owners are still alive for a playoff berth by the time we get to Nov. 10. It may not be fair to think CMC jumps right into his normal bell cow role his first game back. The team may opt to continue to use Mason, who has done a great job filling in. With the potential loss of Brandon Aiyuk, CMC owners shouldn't have much worry inserting him in lineups once he's back.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters WR Brandon Aiyuk is feared to have torn his ACL during Sunday’s game against the Chiefs.

Aiyuk took a hard hit to his knee and was carted off the field. The injuries continue to pile up for the 49ers. He had two catches for 23 yards before leaving the game. With their top three receivers out, the 49ers had rookies Ricky Pearsall and Jacob Cowing leading the charge on the outside. Jauan Jennings should return soon and will be a hot fantasy target if he is still on the waiver wire.

Rams head coach Sean McVay said Sunday he expects WR Cooper Kupp to play Thursday against the Vikings.

Kupp has not played since spraining his ankle in Week 2. He was close to returning this week but was held out, perhaps due to the short week upcoming. He’ll be a nice welcomed back addition to the offense after catching 18 passes in the first two weeks of the season.

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels left Sunday’s game against the Panthers with a rib injury but looks to be ok.

Daniels was taken for X-rays but his mother took to Twitter/X to share a positive update on her son. With the Commanders in complete control against Carolina, the Commanders likely opted to keep Daniels out for precautionary reasons. Washington was up 27-0 at halftime and, at the time of this writing, held a 40-7 lead in the fourth quarter. It sounds like Danieos should be fine for next week against No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears.

49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk left Sunday’s game against the Chiefs with a potentially significant knee injury.

Aiyuk was carted off the field after taking a big hit to his right knee. Deebo Samuel also left the game, meaning the 49ers are now currently without Aiyuk, Samuel and Jauan Jennings. They did just activate rookie Ricky Pearsall. The hope is the injury isn’t too serious but Aiyuk is going to miss a decent amount of time at the very least.

Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell reportedly is believed to have suffered a broken thumb during Sunday’s game against the Rams.

O’Connell hit a Rams helmet on a throw during the first half. O’Connell will undergo further evaluation Monday. After just making a quarterback switch, the Raiders are right back to Gardner Minshew.

Browns QB Deshaun Watson left Sunday’s game against the Bengals with a lower body injury.

Adam Schefter shared a tweet David Chao that suggests Watson may have suffered a torn Achilles. If so, his season would obviously be over. Watson was 15-of-17 for 128 yards before the injury. Dorian Thompson-Robinson is now in at quarterback, Jameis Winston is the emergency quarterback.

The Vikings downgraded TE T.J. (knee) to out for Sunday’s game against the Lions. Hockenson was limited at practice so the Vikings will wait one more week to activate him. He returned to practice October 4, meaning the Vikings will have to activate him by the end of next week or he will miss the rest of the season. In all likelihood, Hockenson will be activated next week and make his season debut in Week 8 against the Rams.

The Seahawks added RB Kenneth Walker III to the injury report with an illness.

Walker is now listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Falcons. Seattle plays in the early window Sunday so we’ll know by about 11:30 in the morning if Walker will be able to play. If not, it’ll be another opportunity for Zach Charbonnet to carry the load on offense.

Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) is set to practice this week and could play in Week 8 against the Cardinals.

Tagovailoa is eligible to return to practice this week following his stint on injured reserve. The Dolphins have struggled on offense without Tagovailoa. Tyler Huntley will start Sunday against the Colts. Tagovailoa reportedly has no lingering effects from the concussion he suffered in Week 2.

The Steelers will start Russell Wilson at quarterback Sunday against the Jets but both he and Justin Fields are expected to play.

Wilson is fully healthy from his preseason calf injury, so Fields was just keeping the seat warm until Wilson came back. The Steelers are expected to have a package of plays for Fields, who led the Steelers to a 4-2 start. Of note, if Fields plays 51 percent of the offensive snaps, the Steelers will send a 4th-round pick to the Bears instead of a 6th.

Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said Saturday WR Marvin Harrison Jr cleared concussion protocol and will play Monday against the Chargers.

Harrison ends up not missing any time. He suffered the injury in Week 6 but was a full participant in practice Friday. The Chargers are a top-ten passing defense but as the top receiver for Kyler Murray, Harrison is still worthy of a WR2/WR3 spot.

The Browns officially activated RB Nick Chubb from the physically unable to perform list Saturday.

Chubb will make his season debut Sunday against the Bengals, his first game since tearing multiple ligaments in Week 2 of last season. We’ll see how much the Browns use Chubb this soon but it’s worth noting that Jerome Ford was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Pierre Strong and D’Onta Foreman are also in the mix.

Buccaneers WR Mike Evans (hamstring) is off the injury report and will play Monday against the Ravens.

Evans did not practice Thursday or Friday but did return to practice Saturday. The Buccaneers clearly felt good enough about his progress to not even have him on the report, let alone give him a designation. He’ll have what should be on paper a good matchup against a Ravens defense that ranks second-to-last in passing yards per game.

Raiders WR Jakobi Meyers (ankle) will not practice today, per Pierce...he'll be DOUBTFUL for Rams game.

Related Players: Tre Tucker, DJ Turner, Tyreik McAllister, Alex Bachman

Playing any fantasy assets outside of Brock Bowers is basically punting your lineup into the Fountains of Bellagio. Let your opponents start Tre Tucker this week.

Rams WR Cooper Kupp (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's game vs. Raiders. Sean McVay says decision could come closer to the game.

Jordan Whittington (shoulder) is expected to play vs. Raiders, Sean McVay said. OL Joe Noteboom (ankle) will not be activated from IR this week.

Related Players: Tutu Atwell, Demarcus Robinson

We would obivously rather have a clear understanding of the WR room heading into the weekend, but as it stands, Kupp should re-join the team and be considered a fantasy WR2 if he suits up.

Vikings injury report vs Lions

OUT -- Blake Cashman, Akayleb Evans

QUESTIONABLE -- Aaron Jones, Dalton Risner, T.J. Hockenson, Pat Jones, Harrison Phillips

Related Players: Ty Chandler, C.J. Ham

Still nothing concrete yet, but Chandler would be a fringe RB2/3 if Jones ends up missing Week 7. Otherwise, it'll be Jones there, with Chandler not logging quite enough usage to be fantasy-relevant.

Tyjae Spears, Keondre Coburn, Treylon Burks are OUT for the Titans

Related Players: Tony Pollard, Julius Chestnut

In a follow-up tweet, Kuharsky mentioned that Burks may be heading to IR, so he can freely be dropped, even in Dynasty leagues.

Pollard should get a massive role this weekend, and profiles as a potential RB1.

Per Colts HC Shane Steichen, CB Chris Lammons, RB Jonathan Taylor are OUT Sunday vs. Dolphins.

QB Anthony Richardson, "will be ready to roll, yeah."

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

We can safely ignore the Colts backfield, but if you're truly desperate, Goodson can be plugged into Flexes, as the option who is getting some pass-game work.

Giants WR Malik Nabers — who had missed the last two weeks due to a confusion and also was listed this week with a groin injury — officially is off the injury, report and good to go Sunday against the Eagles.

Related Players: Wan'Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt

Nabers is a slam-dunk fantasy asset here in Week 7, while Wan'Dale Robinson returns back to his fringe WR3/4 role.

On the Giants RB situation: Devin Singletary will return on Sunday vs. Eagles. But Tyrone Tracy will still see significant playing time.

“He’s earned it,” coach Brian Daboll said. “He’s done a good job. So he’ll get plenty of playing time.”

Daboll says Tracy, Singletary and Eric Gray will all play. The Giants intend to keep an eye on Singletary to see how he’s doing off groin injury. So they will likely ease him back into game action.

A three-headed backfield doesn't sound too appealing for fantasy purposes, but Tracy is likely the best play of the bunch. Consider him an RB3 for Week 7.

Colts HC Shane Steichen says WR Michael Pittman Jr. (back) will play Sunday against the Dolphins.

Related Players: Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, Adonai Mitchell

Even though Pittman has be cleared, he should remain on benches in all but the deepest leagues. This would have been a decent spot if Tua Tagovailoa were playing on the other side, but this game could easily turn into a slog.

The Browns ruled out Jerome Ford and Ronnie Hickman, who didn’t practice this week.

Jordan Hicks, Nyheim Hines, Ethan Pocic and Juan Thornhill are all questionable.

Browns RB Nick Chubb is officially questionable for Sunday. He’s practiced the last three weeks ahead of his expected season debut.

The Browns backfield is a complete stay-away until we have a better idea of Chubb's health/how the backfield work is going to be split. Keep them all on your bench for Week 7.

Patriots RB Rhamondre Stevenson (foot) - who foreshadows that he thinks he can play on Sunday - was a full participant in practice today and is listed as questionable.

Related Players: Antonio Gibson

Stevenson finds himself back in a fantastic option and should be considered a fantasy RB2 once again.

Rashid Shaheed has been placed on IR

Related Players: Bub Means, Cedrick Wilson, Mason Tipton

The Saints depth chart has quickly gone from "meh" to awful in the span of a few days. Avoid everyone.

Brian Robinson (knee) and Dorance Armstrong (rib) are both here at the start of practice.

Terry McLaurin is participating in position drills after a rest day.

Related Players: Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols

Ekeler didn't do much with his heightened rushing opportunity last week, going 9-21-0, though he did add four catches for 47 yards, which saved his fantasy day. Both Robinson and Ekeler could be options if they're both at full health in Week 7, as they face off against a Panthers team that has been gashed everywhere and currently rank 32nd in RB aFPA.

#Bucs coach Todd Bowles said WR Mike Evans “tweaked” something in his leg that had been “nagging” but expects him to practice later this week.

Related Players: Chris Godwin, Sterling Shepard, Jalen McMillan

Godwin was already a slam-dunk play in Week 7, but he could very well hit 15 targets if Evans misses. Beyond him, the rest of the receiver room would be (very) desperate plays.

Terron Armstead and Calais Campbell returned to practice Thursday.

De’Von Achane again working without the red, non-contact jersey, and Jevon Holland still has his hand wrapped.

Related Players: Raheem Mostert, Jaylen Wright

If Achane is fully cleared by the weekend, it put the rest of the backfield in no-man's land for fantasy purposes. Achance himself should be considered an RB2 with a capped ceiling due to a questionable offensive environment, sans Tua Tagovailoa.

WR Malik Nabers (concussion) will have a full practice on Thursday. He will then meet with an independent neurologist later today if things go well to see if he’s cleared.

Meanwhile, DT Dexter Lawrence (hip) and OLB Brian Burns (groin) will miss their second straight practice.

Related Players: Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt, Wan'Dale Robinson

The Giants passing attack has predictably slowed down since losing their stud rookie receiver, with Slayton's 57 yards leading the way in Week 6. If Nabers returns, expect him to resume his place as the engine to this offense.

Browns OC Ken Dorsey said RB Nick Chubb's workload for Sunday is "still a work in progress."

"We want to make sure that he's available for the long term."

Related Players: Pierre Strong Jr., D'Onta Foreman

The Browns backfield is a stay-away in Week 7.

Coach Dennis Allen announces that Rashid Shaheed will undergo surgery on his meniscus, and during the surgery, it will be determined if he has the full repair or the trim.

The full repair would mean his season is over.

Related Players: Juwan Johnson, Bub Means, Cedrick Wilson, Mason Tipton, Chris Olave

Miserable news for a player who had been contributing in many aspects, including special teams. Spencer Rattler's skill position group is being sniped by injuries, which makes the entire team a strong fade for fantasy purposes.

Saints HC Dennis Allen ruled out WR Chris Olave for Thursday night’s game vs. Denver due to a concussion.

Related Players: Juwan Johnson, Bub Means, Cedrick Wilson, Mason Tipton

Things are trending in the wrong direction for the Saints this week, with a number of impactful injuries looking to sap their offense. Mean is fine as a desperation Flex, but don't expect too much.

Jets HC Jeff Ulbrich confirmed that WR Davante Adams — who has missed the past three games due to a hamstring injury — is expected to play Sunday vs. the Steelers.

Related Players: Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, Mike Williams

It shouldn't take much time for Adams to get heavily involved in the offensive gameplan, with literally hundreds of targets from Aaron Rodgers on his resume. Though this is a tough matchup against the Steelers' defense, targets should be funneled to Adams and Wilson from the get-go. Put both of them in WR2 consideration this week.

Dan Quinn said Brian Robinson will practice today. DE Dorance Armstrong will not practice today. Quinn also said they're hoping Javontae Jean-Baptiste's stay on IR will be short.

Related Players: Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols

Ekeler didn't do much with his heightened rushing opportunity last week, going 9-21-0, though he did add four catches for 47 yards, which saved his fantasy day. Both Robinson and Ekeler could be options if they're both at full health in Week 7, as they face off against a Panthers team that has been gashed everywhere and currently rank 32nd in RB aFPA.

WR Malik Nabers (concussion) has made “progress” and will practice in a red jersey on Wednesday, per Brian Daboll.

The Giants are “optimistic” and they’re hoping he makes the next step on Thursday.

Related Players: Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt, Wan'Dale Robinson

The Giants passing attack has predictably slowed down since losing their stud rookie receiver, with Slayton's 57 yards leading the way in Week 6. If Nabers returns, expect him to resume his place as the engine to this offense.

The team has designated rookie running back Jonathon Brooks to return from the non-football injury list and safety Sam Franklin Jr. and defensive tackle Jaden Crumedy to return from injured reserve.

The moves open the three-week window for them to practice before being activated to the 53-man roster. They can be activated at any time.

Related Players: Chuba Hubbard

The Panthers could have a really exciting 1-2 punch on their hands here with Hubbard and Brooks, but we'll have to see how they navigate it, considering they're 1-5 and unlikely to be competing for anything other than a high draft pick in April. Brooks is definitely worth a stash if he's somehow available in your league, even if the team isn't going to give him a workhorse role anytime soon.

Veteran kicker Brandon McManus is signing with the Packers, sources tell me and Mike Garafolo.

Related players: Brayden Narveson

The team is releasing Narveson, who missed 5 of 17 field-goal attempts. McManus was under investigations for an alleged sexual assault, but the NFL said there was insufficient evidence.

Trade! The Texans are sending RB Cam Akers to the Vikings, sources say.

Related players: Aaron Jones, Ty Chandler, Joe Mixon, Dameon Pierce, Dare Ogunbowale

Houston gets a 2026 conditional sixth-round pick in exchange for Akers and a 2026 conditional seventh-round pick. Of course, it’s a reunion for Akers and Minnesota, which also traded for him last season, the story pointed out. The worry now is maybe Jones, who was injured (hip) before the Vikings bye week, isn't fully healthy just yet, despite being able to practice so far this week. However, the Vikings, who sit at 5-0 so far this season, may just want more RB depth behind Jones and Chandler. As for the Texans, Mixon and Pierce look to be healthy again, and with the emergence of Ogunbowale over the last couple of weeks, Akers became expendable.

Arizona announced on Tuesday that defensive lineman Bilal Nichols and kicker Matt Prater on IR.

Related players: Chad Ryland

Prater has been dealing with a knee injury, missing the last two games. With Prater out, Chad Ryland has been signed to the 53-man roster from the club’s practice squad. He’s connected on 5-of-6 field goal attempts and 2-of-2 extra points this season, the story said.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire is back for Kansas City.

Per the NFL’s daily transaction wire, the Chiefs have activated Edwards-Helaire off of the non-football injury list to the 53-man roster.

Related players: Kareem Hunt, Samaje Perine, Carson Steele, Clyde Edwards-Helaire

Edwards-Helaire returned to practice earlier this month and had been dealing with physical effects stemming from post-traumatic stress disorder, including nausea and vomiting, the story said. With Hunt seemingly taking over the RB1 role, there could be a path for CEH to get back to an RB2 role, jumping ahead of Perine and Steele. The Chiefs seem to trust CEH, and HC Andy Reid was quoted in the story saying, "We're awful glad to have him here."

Bills HC Sean McDermott said he thinks RB James Cook and DT Ed Oliver "have a chance" to play against the Titans on Sunday. He says his hope is that both play.

Related players: Ray Davis

Cook was ultimately was ruled out on Monday night in what many felt was a bit of a surprise. Those in the dynasty community have been well aware of Davis and his potential. Davis is considered "old" for a rookie, already 25, but many felt he was NFL-ready, and he showed that on MNF: rushing for 97 and leading the Bills in receiving with a 3-55-0 line. Twice, once after a penalty, Davis was denied a chance for a TD on the 1-yard line and Josh Allen took it in or Davis' fantasy production would have been a few points higher. Still, Davis could have earned himself more work going for forward, but at the very least has fantasy value as a handcuff to Cook owners.

According to multiple reports, the Bills are acquiring Amari Cooper from the Browns.

Buffalo will receive Cooper and a 2025 sixth-round pick while Cleveland will receive a 2025 third-round pick along with a 2026 seventh-round pick.

Related players: Josh Allen, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Curtis Samuel, Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, Jerry Jeudy, Elijah Moore, Cedric Tillman, David Njoku

Cooper, 30, has caught 24 passes for 250 yards with two touchdowns this season. His fantasy production has been inconsistent so far, but that can probably be blamed on the poor play of quarterback Deshaun Watson. Last year Cooper finished with a line of 72-1,250-5, mostly without Watson under center. Cooper will eventually be locked in as the Bills WR1 and push players like Shakir, Coleman Kincaid and Knox further down the fantasy depth chart. It's easy to see Cooper having a chance to thrive with Allen as his QB. Meanwhile in Cleveland, Jeudy, Moore and Tillman will battle it out at the WR position with Njoku becoming more of a target at TE.

With Davante Adams in, another Jets receiver will be the odd man out.

And the odd man out, not surprisingly, will be Mike Williams.

Per a league source, the Jets will attempt to trade the veteran wideout who was signed in the offseason to a one-year deal.

Related players: Devante Adams, Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard

Williams and Aaron Rodgers have yet to click, the story pointed out. Through six games, he has 17 targets, 10 catches, and 145 yards. We speculated this could be the end of the line for Williams in New York after the Adams trade news broke. Williams had a drop on MNF, and broke off his pass route on the play that became the game-sealing interception, which Rodgers called him out for. Adams and Wilson are locked in as the team's top-two WRs with Lazard the WR3.

Sources: The Steelers plan to give Russell Wilson first-team reps in practice this week, putting him in line to make his season debut.

Related players: Justin Fields, George Pickens, Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson, Pat Freiermuth

Russ will get the start against the Jets on Sunday night it looks like. Pittsburgh is 4-2 with Fields, but with Wilson’s calf now fully healed it looks like the team is going to make a change. This could mean a better news for the Pittsburgh WRs as Wilson should throw the ball more vs. Fields escaping the pocket and running.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski did not make any major declarations about Nick Chubb’s availability, only saying they’ll continue to take it one day at a time.

“Yeah, Nick’s working very hard,” Stefanski said in his news conference. “Just spent some time with him just now. He’s going to take this thing day by day and see where we go. But this only comes with hard work.”

Related players: Jerome Ford, D'Onta Foreman, Pierre Strong Jr.

It was reported over the weekend that the Browns are expecting Chubb to return to play in their Week 7 matchup with the Bengals, the story said. Chubb has been sidelined since Week 2 of last season, when he suffered a serious knee injury. Ford is expected to miss time with a hamstring injury, which would leave the team with Foreman and Strong at the RB position.

San Francisco 49ers are signing former Packers K Anders Carlson to their practice squad, source said.

Related players: Jake Moody, Matthew Wright

The Niners are adding some insurance after Wright injured his shoulder last week, the post went on to say. Moody is also dealing with an ankle injury, so it's possible Carlson is pressed into duty for Week 7.

The Raiders are completing a trade of star WR Davante Adams to the Jets, sources say.

Related players: Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard, Mike Williams, Aaron Rodgers, Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, DJ Turner

This seemed like just a matter of time, and finally Adams is back with his good friend Rodgers. The deal was for a third round pick, according to other reports. Adams and Rodgers are very familiar with one another, and it should make for a smooth transition. It's possible Adams plays in Week 7. It's likely going to be a hit to Wilson's fantasy stock, just when Rodgers and Wilson were getting things going, too. There's a report also out today that Williams ran the wrong route in the MNF loss, and was called out by Rodgers after it resulted in an interception. The addition of Adams likely means Williams takes a big backseat in the offense, and it's even possible he gets moved before the deadline at this point. As for the Raiders, Bowers could be the focal point of this offense going forward as Meyers, Tucker and Turner battle it out to have fantasy relevance at WR. It may take some time for a pecking order to develop here, so anyone hurting for WR help can take a flier on at least Tucker and Turner, who may be on your wire.

The targets had been there for Keenan Allen -- 20 in three games prior to Sunday. But he was looking for production.

"Obviously we want to get Keenan involved more. It's a goal of ours," Shane Waldron said last week. "It's that fine line of pressing to get him involved but also knowing that he's going to do a good job like he always does of doing things right, showing up every single day and working to get on the same page, which he's done a great job with and then leading to the results on the field."

It's the kind of news his owners were hoping for, many of which probably missed out on his performance this past week based on his lack of fantasy production up to this point. As the story said, through six weeks, Allen has 15 catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns. The author said Allen's production to this point is slower than what he's used to, but, "Sunday's game felt like something he can build on as Chicago's offense aims for another strong outing coming out of its Week 7 bye." We'll see if the Bears can make some adjustments coming out of the bye and continue to keep a healthier Allen more involved.

Another Monday night inactive surprise at RB: James Cook is out tonight due to his toe injury, per source. It’s the first NFL game in three seasons that Cook has missed.

Related players: Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, Frank Gore, Jr.

Cook is unable to go tonight. The Bills added to that speculation a few hours ago when they announced rookie RB Gore would suit up. Davis could be in line for the early down work with Johnson getting passing downs. Gore could also mix in as well. It will be a tough matchup against the Jets on the road.

"He definitely needs to touch the ball more, without a doubt." - Mike McCarthy on Rico Dowdle.

Related players: Ezekiel Elliott

Elliott was the only other RB to touch the ball, running 8 times for 17 yards in Week 6. Dowdle ran just 5 times but gained 25 yards. Dowdle was more involved in the passing game since the Cowboys fell behind early, and he caught 5 balls for 30 yards. Dowdle did touch the ball 22 times in Week 5 against the Steelers to Elliott's 6 rushes, so the Cowboys do seem to be trending away from the committee in favor of Dowdle, which was reported a couple weeks ago. The game script probably played a factor in Week 6. The Cowboys have a bye in Week 7 and come back to a game at San Francisco in Week 8 on Sunday night, so it's possible we see a more obvious use of Dowdle with any adjustments coming off the bye week.

The Cardinals have activated WR Zay Jones to the 53-man roster.

Relaetd players: Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch

The Cards suspended Jones for five games but he didn't return in Week 6 due to a hamstring injury. With Harrison dealing with a concussion, the Cards could possibly welcome the return of Jones to the lineup rather quickly. The WR group didn't do much for the Cardinals in Week 6 as Dortch went for 3-36-0 and Wilson 2-21-1. Jones is worth a pickup with the hope he climbs the depth chart and perhaps carves out a WR2 role.

RB Jordan Mason (shoulder) was in a blue jersey, I'm told.

Related players: Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor, Kyle Juszczyk

Reports said Mason's injury wasn't considered too serious, and it's a good sign he was back at practice, despite wearing the non-contact jersey. The Niners will host the Chiefs and what should be a fun game to watch in the later window of Sunday. If Mason can't go, look for Guerendo to pick up the slack after he carried 10 times for 99 yards in Week 6 after Mason left the game.

Browns RB Jerome Ford will be week to week with his hamstring injury, HC Kevin Stefanski said.

Related players: Nick Chubb, D'Onta Foreman, Pierre Strong Jr.

It just so happens that Chubb is lurking around and potentially ready to make his return. Week to week doesn't bode well for Ford's chances to play in Week 7, meaning a committee of Foreman and Strong will likely be in the team's plans this week. Even if Chubb is back this week, it would probably be unfair to expect him to take on a huge workload. It will be worth monitoring Chubb's status the rest of the week, however.

John Harbaugh said no change with RB Keaton Mitchell (knee), who remains on injured reserve.

Related players: Travis Henry, Justice Hill

Henry has fit in perfectly for the Ravens and their rushing attack with Hill being the team's RB2 and change of pace back. Mitchell could still be a nice fit in the offense as a more explosive change of pace option, but for now there is no need to rush him back. The post went on to say Harbaugh said he is still "optimistic" and "positive" about Mitchell. Mitchell injured his knee in Week 15 last year.

Titans coach Brian Callahan tells reporters that RB Tyjae Spears is considered week-to-week with a hamstring injury.

Related players: Tony Pollard, Julius Chestnut

The week to week designation means Spears is very much in doubt for Week 7 and could miss more time than that. Any time missed should mean a potential bump in fantasy value for Pollard with RB3 Chestnut possibly also mixing in.

The performance by RB Sean Tucker means he will join Rachaad White and Bucky Irving more in the backfield. "It's definitely worthy of him making it a three-headed monster,'' coach Todd Bowles said of Tucker.

Tucker had 136 yards and a TD on 14 carries and another receiving touchdown. Irving was already earning more work in the backfield before Tucker exploded onto the scene in Week 6. We'll see if this holds true, but it seems like especially bad news for White and his owners.

Rams QB Matthew Stafford, who had back soreness after loss to Packers, is "doing great and he's not going to miss any time," McVay said.

Stafford got hit around in the Week 5 loss to the Packers, which came before their Week 6 bye. It sounds like Stafford is good to go, and the bye week came at the right time, but it's always something to monitor. Stafford is as tough as the come but also getting up there in age.

Panthers plan to open the 21-day window for RB Jonathon Brooks to return, per Dave Canales.

Related players: Chuba Hubbard

The Panthers have been pretty careful with Brooks who was supposed to be ready in camp with an ACL injury from college. The open window doesn't mean Brooks is a lock to play this week, and even if he does, he probably wouldn't be a safe fantasy play right out of the gate. There isn't a lot of need to rush him with the play of Hubbard, however the team likely wants to see what they have in Brooks, and at some point this year, Brooks will probably cut into Hubbard's fantasy value.

Rams WR Cooper Kupp will workout with trainers today but no determination has been made about his availability for Sunday’s game against Raiders, McVay said. Puka Nacua will not practice this week.

Related players: Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell, Jordan Whittington, Tyler Johnson

There was some hope before the bye week that Kupp would be ready to go in Week 7, and that still looks like it could be possible, however certainly not a lock at this point. Owners will want to monitor Kupp's status leading up to Week 7 games. The Rams host the Raiders in a later Sunday game, so the matchup would be a nice one, but waiting on Kupp will come with risks if he's a game-time call. If Kupp can't go, the Rams have been going with a combination of Robinson, Atwell, Whittington and Johnson at the wideout position, all of which come with their own risks if in your lineup.

Colts HC Shane Steichen told reporters that QB Anthony Richardson will play Sunday if he does not suffer any setbacks from his oblique injury.

Related players: Joe Flacco

Richardson was close to playing in Week 6 according to reports, so this was the hopeful outcome heading into Week 7. The Colts are in an early game against the Dolphins so owners will have plenty of time to make adjustments if for some reason there is a setback. But for now, Richardson looks good to go.

Sources: Packers WR Dontayvion Wicks is considered “week-to-week” after sustaining a shoulder injury that caused him to leave Sunday’s game vs the Cardinals.

Related players: Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs

Overall it's good news for Jordan Love and Green Bay, as Wicks already has 3 TDs this season. From a fantasy perspective, it's a crowded WR room for the Packers who saw Watson return to action this past week. With Wicks listed as week to week, it's very possible he's unable to go in Week 7. The Pack host the Texans in Week 7 in an early afternoon game. Look for Reed, Watson and Doubs to lead the way again as all three scored touchdowns in Week 6.

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel confirms that QB Tua Tagovailoa is expected to play again in 2024.

As the post said, it's the first time the team has said Tagovailoa will be back this season. Tua is still on Injured Reserve, however, but eligible to resume practicing on Oct. 23. There has been talk about a Week 8 return but that remains to be seen. All reports over the last several weeks is Tua is feeling good and much improved. In Week 8, the Dolphins are hosting Cardinals in an early game, so hopefully by that point we have a better idea of Tua's timetable.

Jaguars HC Doug Pederson told reporters today that RB Travis Etienne Jr. is now considered week to week due to his hamstring injury.

Related players: Tank Bigsby, D'Ernest Johnson

It's the second-straight week Etienne didn't finish a game. In Week 5, the team said it was a shoulder injury but many questioned if it was more because of a lack of production, especially after Bigsby piled up huge fantasy numbers. But in Week 6, Bigsby was held in check with the Jags playing from behind most of the game. The week to week status means Etienne is very questionable for Week 7, which is another London game for the Jags. The good news is owners will have plenty of time to figure out a plan based on Etienne's game-time status. Bigsby should be a much safer play if he gets the start in what is a favorable matchup against the Patriots. Johnson likely figures in as well. Bigsby should be a popular waiver target this week if he's still available in your league.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said after the game Sunday the team is sticking with Deshaun Watson at quarterback.

The 20-16 loss to the Eagles dropped Cleveland to 1-5, tied for the worst record in the NFL with the Jaguars, the lone win for Cleveland so far, and the Patriots. Watson did go 16-for-23 for 168 yards against the Eagles but was sacked five times. Watson has yet to throw for 200 yards in a game this season and has just one game with multiple passing touchdowns. Cleveland’s next three games are at home against the Bengals, Ravens and Chargers.

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh left Sunday’s game against the Broncos for a short time with what was called an illness.

While he was out, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter served as interim head coach. Minter was Harbaugh’s DC at Michigan. OC Greg Olsen manned the offense, as he typically does.

Browns RB Nick Chubb is expected to make his season debut in Week 7 against the Bengals

Chubb returned to practice this week, over a year since tearing multiple ligaments in Week 2 of last season. Jerome Ford has held down the fort pretty well so far, averaging 5.2 yards per carry on 48 attempts. But if healthy, Chubb is one of the best backs in the league. The 1-4 Browns will try to right the ship against the Eagles before getting their star rusher back.

The Lions and running back David Montgomery agreed to a contract extension that will keep the pair together through 2027.

Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have formed one of the best running back duos in the league and this will keep that intact for a few more years. Monty is now tied to Detroit for at least three more seasons after this one. Monty has 271 yards on 63 carries with four touchdowns. He's been a key piece of the Lions offense since joining as a free agent before the 2023 season.

Matt LaFleur on Tucker Kraft, who was added to the injury report yesterday with a groin issue:

“He should be good to go.”

Kraft should be considered a locked-in TE1 this week, with upside for an overall No. 1 finish at the position.

Bucs HC Todd Bowles says Jalen McMillan will be playing on Sunday, Rachaad White is a game time decision.

Related Players: Bucky Irving

White may have already lost the RB1 role to Irving, so if he misses, it will be wheels-up for the rookie. Otherwise, consider them both borderline RB2 plays in fantasy, with a slight edge to Irving.

Titans QB Will Levis will start on Sunday vs. the Colts, per Brian Callahan.

Related Players: Mason Rudolph

Levis has a good matchup against the Colts defense, but it doesn't seem likely that he will take advantage of it. He has four touchdowns and six interceptions on the year and has done so with 6.2 yards per attempt. He should only be targeted as a back-end QB2 in Superflex leagues.

Browns rule out Grant Delpit, Ethan Pocic, Nick Chubb, Ronnie Hickman, Nyheim Hines, James Hudson III.

Denzel Ward, Maurice Hurst II, Jordan Hicks, Mohamoud Diabate listed as questionable.

David Njoku will play Sunday vs. Eagles.

Related Players: Jordan Akins, Jerome Ford, D'Onta Foreman, Pierre Strong Jr.

Hopefully Njoku can add a little boost to this floundering offense, and should slide right back into low-end TE1 range for fantasy.

As for the running back room, Ford likely holds onto the RB1 role for one more week, but the team has made it clear that they'd like to rotate him. This makes him a questionable call as your team's RB2, but at the very least, he provides a floor.

Shane Steichen ruling just one #Colts player OUT for Sunday:

-Jonathan Taylor (ankle)

Michael Pittman Jr. (back) is feeling really good, per Steichen.

Anthony Richardson will be a game-time decision.

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson, Joe Flacco

It hadn't been looking good for Taylor throughout the week, so maybe the bigger news is that we don't have any confirmation about Richardson's status, which has a huge impact on lineup decisions.

There are a lot of moving parts here, but we're assuming Pittman won't play and that Richardson *will*, which gives a slight boost to Josh Downs and Alec Pierce, who should be considered WR3s with upside for more.

Mike Tomlin said that Jaylen Warren was a full participant today and is “on the upswing.”

The coach feels “optimistic about his inclusion” and will list the RB as questionable.

Related Players: Najee Harris

If Warren is available, it will come at a massive detriment to Harris' fantasy outlook, as the latter as looked like his typical, inefficient self. Warren could be a tough click in his first week back, but he also lowers Harris to an RB3 if they both play.

Mike Tomlin says that Russell Wilson will be active on Sunday as the backup.

Justin Fields will start.

Maybe not the best outcome for Steelers pass-catchers, but another Fields start means he is streamable again for managers in need. Consider him a low-end QB1 against the Raiders due to his rushing ability.

AJ Brown, Lane Johnson and DeVonta Smith are all practicing for the third straight day. All the other players on the injury report are out here too.

Looks like all systems go for the Eagles in Week 6.

Related Players: Jahan Dotson, Parris Campbell, Dallas Goedert,

Outside of Brown (WR1) and Smith (WR2) jumping headfirst into our fantasy lineups, this is also an obvious boost to Jalen Hurts, who has averaged only 13.6 fantasy points over their last two games. Lock Hurts into a potential top-3 finish in Week 6.

Devin Singletary still dealing with a groin problem. Coach Brian Daboll said “we’ll see” about his starting running back.

Could be another Tyrone Tracy game.

Related Players: Eric Gray

While Eric Gray was technically the first running back to touch the ball last week, he would fumble the ball on the 1-yard line later in the same drive and spend the rest of the game firmly in the doghouse. Tracy took his opportunity and ran for 129 yards, so you have to figure he'll get the chance to repeat his performance if Singletary is out. The Bengals defense has been flat all year, so Tracy profiles as an RB2 with upside for more.

Beautiful day for football .

RB Joe Mixon is practicing for the second consecutive day. Another positive step in the right direction for Sunday.

Related Players: Cam Akers, Dare Ogunbowale, Dameon Pierce

Mixon was on a tear before an ankle injury sidelined him in Week 2, and should he return fully healthy this week, it's hard to keep him out of RB1 territory. The rest of the backfield would turn into huge desperation plays in deep leagues.

Zac: Chase Brown and Zack Moss good to go.
Sheldon Rankins, too.

Related Players: Trayveon Williams

A bit of a surprise, as Moss' ankle injury looked pretty nasty. From a fantasy perspective, it would have been nice to have just one of them on the field in Week 6, but no matter, they are both absolutely in play as RB2s in a Bengals offense that has looked almost unstoppable.

No sight of Jonathan Taylor to start Colts practice.

Unless he comes out late, that’s a second straight missed week of practices for him.

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

What seemed to be a minor injury now looks like it will keep Taylor out for a second straight week. While Sermon easily held the RB1 role last week, he wasn't terribly impactful on the ground, doing most of his work as a receiver out of the backfield. He had his own injury scare earlier in the week, but looks good to go for Week 6. Consider him a fringe RB2/3 with Anthony Richardson (presumably) back at the helm.

No sign of RB Rhamondre Stevenson (foot) at the media-access portion of practice for the third straight day.

Related Players: Antonio Gibson, JaMycal Hasty

If Stevenson misses Week 6 (which seems likely), Gibson jumps up into a very interesting role, possibly as a consistent check-down option in Drake Maye's first start. It won't feel great, but he can be considered a borderline RB2 in that scenario.

The NFL’s leading rusher, 49ers RB Jordan Mason, is believed to have suffered a sprained AC joint during Thursday night’s win at Seattle that is not considered serious, but he will undergo further testing today, per sources.

Related Players: Isaac Guerendo, Patrick Taylor

This doesn't give us a good lean on how much time he could miss (if any), but there's a good chance Guerendo gets a shot at leading the rushing attack after he put the game away with a 70+ yard run. We'll keep an eye on the situation, but hopefully, Mason isn't forced to miss too much time.

Malik Nabers is out Sunday, per Daboll.

Related Players: Wan'Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Theo Johnson

Stinks to see the rookie miss more time, but he should be on track to continue his impressive showing(s) in Week 7. In the meantime, both Robinson and Slayton should be in fantasy consideration without many other options to catch the ball in New York.

Chase Brown (quad) is practicing on Friday.

Related Players: Zack Moss, Trayveon Williams

Seems like the limited practice yesterday wasn't an indication of Brown's availability for Week 6. Zack Moss is still undecided though, which makes each of their projections difficult to assume quite yet. We'll keep an eye on the situation, but if Moss is out, Brown makes for a slam-dunk play this weekend.

From "Good Morning Football" Rapoport reports, indications are that Austin Ekeler is going to play on Sunday after logging a full practice on Thursday, while Brian Robinson has not practiced yet and looks to be a game-time call, as he was in Week 5.

Related Players: Jeremy McNichols

Robinson casually had two touchdowns last week, but that would be hard to bank on again, considering they came on seven rush attempts (18 yards). If Robinson is out, or even limited, Ekeler is in a fantastic spot in what could end up being a massive shootout.

Colts QB Anthony Richardson (oblique) was a full participant in today’s practice and is on track to return to the lineup on Sunday at Tennessee.

Related Players: Joe Flacco

The boost we saw to all of the receivers due to the pass-happy offense under Flacco is slightly downgraded now that Richardson is back, though Michael Pittman Jr. is out for the short-term, so maybe Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and Adonai Mitchell see a boost anyways. Richardson has a less-than-ideal matchup this week, so it may be best to give him a week, depending on your other options.

Alvin Kamara was at practice today. Rashid Shaheed was not.

Related Players: Jamaal Williams, Kendre Miller

Kamara could have a massive role in the offense this weekend if he's a full go, with rookie Spencer Rattler seeing his first NFL action. If he ends up missing, the team has already shown that they don't trust Miller, so Williams would presumably operate as the RB1.

Packers coach Matt LaFleur said TE Luke Musgrave’s ankle is going to keep him out a while and will “more than likely” go on injured reserve.

Musgrave was active last Sunday but only for emergency purposes and actually practiced yesterday.

“Speaks to his toughness,” MLF said.

Related Players: Tucker Kraft

Kraft has already taken over as the undoubted TE1 on the team, but this removes another hurdle for him to put up consistent fantasy production. He should be considered a definite top-10 option for the rest of the season.

RB James Cook (foot/toe) remained sidelined at Thursday’s Bills practice. Cook’s second straight absence. Looking less likely that he will play against the Jets, but the longer week gives him a better chance.

Related Players: Ray Davis, Ty Johnson

If Cook were to miss Week 6, it's hard to say how the backfield load would get divvied up. Obviously Ty Johnson has more experience than rookie Ray Davis, but it's the latter who leads in the carry department, 26-10. Davis feels like the better pick-up, but neither one would carry a full bellcow load regardless, which makes them iffy spot-starts.

Texans RB Joe Mixon is practicing today. He’s back.

Related Players: Cam Akers, Dare Ogunbowale, Dameon Pierce

This is nothing concrete yet —we'll know more after Friday's practice— but it's certainly a good sign. If he's a full go for Week 6 it makes the rest of the backfield an afterthought while Mixon would be a high-end RB2 (at least) once again.

The Saints are starting rookie QB Spencer Rattler, as Derek Carr is out a few weeks with a tear in his oblique.

A hurdle for the Saints, but also a look at a promising young QB.

Related Players: Jake Haener

Carr can be safely dropped, despite his great early-season start, but we may look at him as a streaming option upon his return. Keep Rattle on waiver wires for now, but it will be interesting to see what he can do in the upcoming weeks.

Colts WR Michael Pittman is dealing with a back injury that is now expected to sideline him multiple weeks, per sources. Injured reserve is an option.

Related Players: Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, Adonai Mitchell

This should push Downs into WR2 consideration, regardless of whether or not Anthony Richardson returns in Week 6. Pierce, and now, Mitchell become more interesting as respective WR3/Desperation Flex options.

For TNF:
-- 49ers TE George Kittle (ribs) and LB Fred Warner (ankle) were full participants and will play.
-- The team promoted TE Brayden Willis to the 53-man and put S Talanoa Hufanga on IR.
-- Seahawks ruled out DT Byron Murphy II and CB Riq Woolen, while there is optimism for Boye Mafe and Derick Hall to play.

Kittle finds himself in a fantastic spot against the Seahawks, who rank 30th in TE aFPA. Fire him up everywhere you can.

For the first time in over a month, Steelers QB Russell Wilson (calf) was listed as a full participant in practice.

RB Jaylen Warren (knee) returned to practice on a limited basis.

Related Players: Justin Fields

With so much of the fantasy value from the position riding on Fields' legs, it's hard to envision many great performances from Wilson in this offense. If he suits up, he can be left on waiver wires until we see more out of him.

Raiders HC Antonio Pierce said Aidan O'Connell will be the starting QB against the Steelers this Sunday.

Related Players: Gardner Minshew

Do not, under any circumstance, start O'Connell in Week 6.

Raiders WR Davante Adams (hamstring) is not expected to play this week vs. Steelers, per sources.

Related Players: Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, Brock Bowers

No surprise here, but at least we get the news early in the week. Meyers and Bowers look to benefit the most from Adams' absence (and eventual trade) and should be considered respective WR2 and TE1s.

The Texans have placed WR Nico Collins, the NFL's leading receiver on Injured Reserve. He's out four games.

Related Players: Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, Xavier Hutchinson, Dalton Schultz

Hutchinson came in and basically played Collins' role for the rest of Week 5, but he is obviously not going to demand the same type of target share. He can be added in deeper leagues, but we expect Diggs, Dell, and Schultz to take a majority of the extra usage.

Sources: Saints QB Derek Carr is expected to miss multiple games with an oblique injury he suffered against the Chiefs.

Related players: Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler

Garafolo went on to point out New Orleans has two games in the next nine days, and the likelihood is Carr misses Sunday vs. the Buccaneers and Thursday vs. the Broncos. Garafolo, in a different post, said rookie fifth-rounder Rattler is a strong candidate to get the start in Carr’s absence. Haener was the backup and came on after Carr was injured, but it looks like Rattler could get his chance.
.

With the season getting away from them, the Patriots are turning to Drake Maye.

Related players: Jacoby Brissett

There were feelings among those who follow the Pats a change at QB could occur this week, and sure enough it has. As the post pointed out, Brissett has been underwhelming to say the least, and, the team has no true road games for the next three weeks, even though they will play in London in Week 7. So a change now does make some sense as the team was likely looking for the best window possible. Maye and NE will host the Texans this week and then home again in Week 8 against the Jets. The hope is Maye will bring a spark to the offense but it doesn't change the fact the Patriots offensive line is a struggle.

Vikings HC Kevin O'Connell says RB Aaron Jones "continues to be evaluated." Says all the information so far signals that they avoided major injury, but he's classified right now as "week to week."

Related players: Ty Chandler

We reported Monday that Jones avoided major injury and had a chance to be back after the team's Week 6 bye. While there was no talk of that in this post, he technically still has a chance to return in Week 7, which is an early game against the Lions. It's still a good idea to try and get Chandler if he's somehow still on your waiver wire.

Russell Wilson is getting closer to being ready to play.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said in his Tuesday press conference that Wilson will be a full participant in practice on Wednesday. This marks a shift from Wilson’s previous level of on-field work.

Related players: Justin Fields

Tomlin said Wilson can now work without restrictions and the team plans to do just that with Wilson. The story said, however, it doesn’t mean Wilson is ready to come in and be the starter, as Fields is still slated to take first-team practice snaps.

The 49ers have found a kicker to replace the injured Jake Moody.

Per multiple reports, San Francisco has signed Matthew Wright.

Wright, 28, had a short stint with San Francisco’s practice squad early last year, though he did not appear in a game.

Related players: Jake Moody

Moody is dealing with an ankle injury and there is no word how long Moody could be out. Wright should be a decent kicking option for fantasy lineups given the overall potential of the Niners offense. San Francisco is at Seattle on Thursday night.

ESPN sources: Jets fired HC Robert Saleh.

An ESPN story went on to say defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will be the interim head coach. Saleh, who was hired by the Jets in 2021, had a 20-36 record as the team's head coach. An ESPN story added that Saleh's firing marks the first time in owner Woody Johnson's 25-year tenure that he has fired a coach in the middle of the season. After last season, a 7-10 finish, Johnson acknowledged that he was livid with the outcome and raised the stakes for Saleh by demanding significant improvement, the story said. The Jets started six different quarterbacks in Saleh's four seasons: Zach Wilson (33 games), Mike White (7), Aaron Rodgers (6), Joe Flacco (5), Trevor Siemian (3) and Tim Boyle (2).

Saints quarterback Derek Carr left Monday night’s loss early with an oblique injury and said afterward that he wanted to keep playing but physically couldn’t throw a football.

“Not good, but we’ll get an MRI and all that tomorrow and figure it out,” Carr said when asked how he was feeling after the game. “I would’ve done anything to stay out there and keep fighting, but I couldn’t.”

Related players: Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler

Carr said he felt something in his oblique and wasn’t able to make a throwing motion afterward. He isn’t sure the nature of the injury and isn’t sure if he can play on Sunday against the Buccaneers, the story said. Haener is listed as the team's QB2 and came on in relief of Carr against the Chiefs. Rattler is the team's QB3.

Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice will have surgery on Tuesday to determine the extent of the knee injury that he suffered eight days ago. Via multiple reports, he got some good news on Monday.

Via Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Rice might have avoided a torn ACL. He nevertheless needs to have an LCL repair.

As Rapoport characterizes it, Rice’s season “is expected to be over.” Separately, Rapoport says that Rice could miss “potentially three months” due to the LCL repair. That timeline would not end his season.

Related players: Xavier Worthy, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Justin Watson, Mecole Hardman, Skyy Moore, Travis Kelco

The news is starting to get a little more clear for Rice. Best case seems to be a return for the playoffs in three months. As the story said, Rice has eight felony accounts lurking. Florio went on to say that now that Rice will be sidelined due to injury, it makes sense to resolve the charges and take the suspension this year. While he would still lose his game checks, he would not lose the ability to play any more games than the injury will cause him to miss, the story pointed out.

Cooper Kupp has missed three games, and the Rams are on their off week this week.

Rams coach Sean McVay said Monday that Kupp’s return for Week 7 would be “an ideal target” but “by no means is that guaranteed.”

Related players: Puka Nacua, Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell, Jordan Whittington, Colby Parkinson

Kupp has not played since Week 2 when he injured his ankle against the Cardinals. The Rams did not place him on injured reserve, hoping he would miss fewer than four games, the story said. Kupp's return will help a banged up Rams WR group that still has Nacua out of commission. Whittington went for 7-89-0 and was targeted 10 times as well Atwell who finished 6-58-0 last week. Robinson had the lone TD catch but had a 3-28-1 line on five targets. Parkinson was targeted a team-high 13 times and went for 7-52-0.

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford was on the list of players dealing with injuries at head coach Sean McVay’s Monday press conference, but he isn’t expected to miss any game action.

McVay said that Stafford is dealing with back soreness after Sunday’s 24-19 loss to the Packers.

The Rams have a bye this week and McVay said that he expects Stafford to be a full participant in practice when they return for Week 7, the story said. Stafford was sacked three times and hit 10 times as well.

The meeting with Packers and WR Romeo Doubs ‘went well,’ the source added.

Related players: Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, Dontayvion Wicks, Tucker Kraft

Doubs plans to attend Wednesday’s practice coming out of his meeting with the team today, per source, and the story. With Doubs and Watson out, Reed remained the team's WR1 but Wicks disappointed with a 2-20-0 line. Instead, Kraft exploded on the scene with a huge day and a 4-88-2 line. It remains to be seen if Doubs can be content with his role in the offense going forward, because there are plenty of mouths to feed in the Packers offense.

After suffering a hamstring injury in the season opener, tight end Evan Engram may be back on the field for the Jaguars when they play the Bears in London on Sunday.

Head coach Doug Pederson provided a positive update on Engram during his Monday news conference, saying he was close to playing in Week 5.

“He got himself into practice a little bit,” Pederson said. “I would anticipate him doing more this week and seeing where he’s at at the end of the week. But I think the chances of him getting back in here this week are pretty good.”

Related players: Brenton Strange

Engram had one 5-yard catch in the season-opening loss to Miami before he had to exit the contest. He was a limited participant in practice all three days last week, the story pointed out.

Doug Pederson confirms that Travis Etienne suffered a shoulder injury on Sunday and *that's* why he didn't play much in the second half.

Related players: Tank Bigsby

Pederson said the team didn't want to risk further injury to Etienne. He finished with just six carries for 17, but did have six catches for 43 yards. However, Bigsby stepped in nicely and finished with 13 carries for 101 yards and two TDs. Bigsby has looked good at times, so this is a situation to watch going forward. We can perhaps assume the move to not play Etienne was precautionary, but that remains to be seen. Hopefully practice reports this week will give us a better idea. It wouldn't be a bad idea to get Bigsby if he's on your wire.

Texans now have changed Nico Collins’ injury designation from “day to day” to “week to week.”

We reported earlier today that Collins was listed as day to day, which was a much better sign for his Week 6 status. However the week to week status makes more sense, as far as hamstring injuries go. This designation is likely going to make it tougher for Collins to play in Week 6.

If the Raiders are going to make a quarterback switch this week, head coach Antonio Pierce wasn’t ready to say so during his Monday news conference.

“Yeah, just keep evaluating the film, evaluating everything from scheme, players — everything,” Pierce said. “So, we’re still doing that upstairs, currently.”

Related players: Gardner Minshew, Aidan O’Connell

Minshew was benched for O’Connell late in the third quarter. Minshew finished the game 12-of-17 for 137 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions — one of which was returned 100 yards by Pat Surtain for a pick six, the story went on to say.

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will be on injured reserve for at least two more weeks and the process of getting back on the field will continue this week.

Head coach Mike McDaniel said at a Monday press conference that Tagovailoa will have “some expert consultation” about his concussion in the coming days. With the Dolphins on a bye this week, Tagovailoa will be eligible to practice with the team after their Week Seven game against the Colts. He will remain in the concussion protocol until he does get back on the field because practice work is one of the steps toward being cleared and McDaniel said there’s been no word from any doctors that would rule out a return at that point.

There's been talk Tua will be back for Week 8, but this consultation, the story said, will go a long way as far as determining whether or not that will come true. McDaniel said, “There’s been nothing negative thus far, but we’re still in the process. We don’t rush that process and we don’t try to do anything that negatively impacts that,” so that's certainly good news as far as Tua's overall health goes.

There’s no quarterback controversy in Indianapolis.

Joe Flacco has completed 49-of-70 passes for 527 yards and five touchdowns since Anthony Richardson injured his oblique early in a Week Four win over the Steelers, but head coach Shane Steichen made it clear on Monday that the team is going to put Richardson back in the lineup once he’s medically cleared.

“He is our starting quarterback,” Steichen said, via Kevin Bowen of 107.5 The Fan.

Richardson was a limited participant in practice last week, the story said. This Wednesday will bring word on how much he’s doing at practice as the team moves toward their Week 6 trip to Tennessee the story added.

My understanding is the Eagles are expecting to have their top WRs A.J. Brown (hamstring) and DeVonta Smith (concussion) back this week vs the Browns.

Related players: Jalen Hurts

Brown was dealing with a hamstring injury and some thought he had a chance to play in Week 4, but ultimately didn't. Smith was dealing with a concussion from Week 3, and didn't get out of protocol in time for Week 4's game. The Eagles had a bye in Week 5 allowing both receivers extra time to be ready to go. It's great news for Hurts and his fantasy owners.

Browns TE David Njoku played 25 snaps in his first game since Week 1 but sustained a knee injury against the Commanders.

Njoku will get an MRI today, according to the report. Njoku just returned after missing three weeks because of an ankle injury. Owners will need to monitor Njoku's status this week, but are probably fed up by now with his lack of time on the field.

The Raiders' preference as an organization is to get a Davante Adams trade done “sooner rather than later,” per multiple sources.

Related players: Brock Bowers, Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker

The Adams distraction is the last thing the team needs now as it continues to struggle. But, the post went on to say the Raiders aren’t going to do just any deal, and their preference has been not to take on any of the money remaining on Adams’ contract, according to Shultz's post. The post did say expect things to ramp up this week. The Raiders switched from Gardner Minshew to Aidan O'Connell against the Broncos, but it didn't lead to a spark on offense. Bowers may benefit the most with Adams no longer in the lineup and he posted an 8-97-1 line, followed by Meyers' 6-72-0 line. Tucker didn't have a great day, despite being a popular name on the waiver wire.

HC Brian Callahan: QB Will Levis probably won't practice today. We expect him to be in the practice routine this week.

Related players: Mason Rudolph

The post went on to say Levis is "improving" and he's better than he was after the game. The Titans had a bye this past week, and Callahan said if Levis is ready to go he would start in Week 6. Rudolph played pretty well in leading the Titans to a win the last time we saw him in Week 4. We'll have to see if and when Levis is able to get back on the practice field. The Titans host the Colts in an early Sunday game.

Running back Zack Moss wasn’t around for the end of Sunday’s overtime loss to the Ravens, but it doesn’t look like he’ll be missing much more time.

Moss left the game with an ankle injury, but Mike Garafolo of NFL Media reports that he avoided a serious injury and is believed to be OK as the team moves into Week Six.

Related players: Chase Brown

Moss ran nine times for 24 yards and caught three passes for 28 yards in Sunday’s loss. He has 57 carries for 211 yards and two touchdowns and 15 catches for 124 yards and a touchdown over the entire season. The Bengals play the Giants on Sunday night so those counting on Moss may have to come up with a backup plan as any kind of ankle injury can be tricky. If Moss can't go, Brown would likely see a larger workload and there are many who consider him the better back for the Bengals. It would also be a nice matchup against the Giants, too. We'll continue to track Moss' practice status this week, but Brown may be a guy to pickup if he's still on your wire.

Opinion/analysis: Notable shift in Jerod Mayo's answers regarding QB situation in his day-after-game video conference compared to past weeks. Mayo said last week the way the team won its only game was "unsustainable" and he seems to strongly be considering switch to Drake Maye.

Related players: Jacoby Brissett

A big reason for the Pats not wanting to put Maye in at QB is the struggles of the offensive line. But at this point, given the struggles of the entire offense, a change has to at least be considered - and Reiss feels maybe the team is starting to feel the same way. Maye will likely have his struggle as well, but at this point there doesn't seem to be a lot of reason to stick with Brissett.

There remains hope that Rashee Rice could return this season and be sidelined six to eight weeks, according to league sources, but nothing will be determined until early next week at the earliest. It is difficult to know how realistic it is that Rice could return this season, although the Chiefs have not given up hopes of that possibility yet.

The Chiefs will likely be in the market for another WR, but first want to know the status of Rice, which could come later today. The story said Rice will undergo a knee procedure, according to league sources. Schefter said the Chiefs were interested in DeAndre Hopkins before he signed with the Titans. Schefter suggested if the Jets trade for Davante Adams, other WRs from the Jets could be available. The Chiefs are not expected to be a candidate for Adams because of salary cap reasons as well as the Raiders likely not wanting to trade Adams within the AFC West.

Steelers HC Mike Tomlin said there is no underlying story as to why WR George Pickens played only 34 of 57 snaps in Week 5.

On one series in the second half, Pickens remained on the bench. Tomlin went on to say the team wants to minimize his reps to get more productivity, comparing it to a defensive lineman like Cam Hayward getting less work, and added "it's no different." This may or may not be something to watch. Pickens likely isn't happy with reduced snaps, but we'll have to see if this becomes a trend going forward.

Vikings RB Aaron Jones will get an MRI on his hip.

Related players: Ty Chandler

From what Rapoport said in his report, the Vikings don't think Jones' hip injury will be a long-term issue. The good news is the team has a bye this week, and Rapoport indicated Jones could very well be back for Week 7. Chandler saw more work with Jones out and has been considered one of the better handcuff options coming into the season. Jones' owners may want to use the bye week to work on obtaining Chandler if they don't already own him.

Aaron Rodgers has a sprained ankle but “should be” good to play next Monday night vs. the Bills.

Related players: Tyrod Taylor

Obviously "should be" are the key words. The game being on Monday night could complicate things for owners if Rodgers ends up being a game-time call. Reports say the Jets don't seem too concerned about his injury but owners may want to have a backup plan if they're counting on Rodgers in Week 6.

Texans now consider WR Nico Collins “day to day” with the hamstring injury he suffered during Sunday’s win over the Bills.

This seems like good news for his status for Week 6, and day to day seems like it at least gives him a shot to suit up for what is an early afternoon game at New England. Practice reports later this week should give us a better idea.

Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell replaced Gardner Minshew during the third quarter against Denver.

Minshew threw two interceptions and had only 137 yards in what became a long day for the Raiders. O’Connell hasn’t fared much better, throwing an interception of his own as Denver took total control Sunday.

Vikings RB Aaron Jones left Sunday’s game against the Jets with a hip injury.

Jones left in the first half. He was initially ruled questionable to return before eventually being ruled out. Ty Chandler and Myles Gaskins are getting the work in his place.

Cardinals TE Trey McBride was downgraded Saturday to questionable for Sunday’s game against the 49ers with an injury to his ribs.

McBride missed Week 4 with a concussion and had just came back from the concussion protocol. Elijah Higgins has three targets and just two catches in the 42-14 Week 4 loss to Washington.

Jaguars TE Evan Engram is “not tracking” to play Sunday against the Colts.

Engram continues to recover from the hamstring injury he suffered during pre-game warmup in Week 2. It will be another start for Brenton Strange, who has under 20 years in two of his three games started.

The Packers suspended WR Romeo Doubs one game for conduct detrimental to the team.

Doubs missed two practices this week after he was reportedly upset with his role in the offense. Doubs has 12 catches (on 20 targets) for 169 yards. Jaylen Reed has emerged as the WR1 in Green Bay. The Packers will also likely be without Christian Watson, who is doubtful with a high ankle sprain. Reed and Dontayvion Wicks, who are tied for the team lead with 22 targets each, will lead the charge against the Rams.

The Cowboys placed WR Brandin Cooks (knee) on injured reserve.

Cooks, dealing with an infection in his knee. will miss at least the next four games against the Steelers, Lions, 49ers and Falcons. The Cowboys also have their bye week in there in Week 7. Jalen Tolbert slides in as the No. 2 wide receiver with not much fantasy value.

GIANTS WEEK 5 GAME STATUSES

Out:
▪️ WR Malik Nabers (Concussion)

Doubtful:
▪️ RB Devin Singletary (Groin)

Questionable:
▪️ LB Matt Adams* (Quad)
▪️ CB Adoree’ Jackson (Calf)

Related Players: Tyrone Tracy, Eric Gray, Dante Miller

It's anyone's guess what the pecking order would be in this backfield without Singletary, but Tracy could be in for some extra receiving usage regardless, with Malik Nabers officially Out for Week 5. The offense might look like a mess this week, but Tracy might end up being an interesting Flex play during the first round of Byes.

Pierce said #Raiders RB Zamir White (groin) is doubtful. DE Maxx Crosby (ankle) and G Dylan Parham (achilles) will practice today.

Related Players: Alexander Mattison

It looks like Mattison will get the nod and most of the ground game work, but he is in an awful situation with an offense that is nosediving. Dylan Laube and Ameer Abdullah should be involved in the pass game, which regulates Mattison to RB2/3 territory.

The Saints waived WR A.T. Perry, per source.

This is quite the surprise after he was pegged as the WR3 heading into the season, but he has seen absolutely no playing time through the first month of the season. If anyone is still holding him on deep Dynasty squads, it's time to cut bait.

The Steelers will be without RB Jaylen Warren (ankle) on Sunday night against the Cowboys. Rookie Aaron Shampklin will be the complement to Najee Harris in the Pittsburgh backfield.

Shampklin, a 2022 UDFA rookie out of Harvard, has one career carry, which came in Week 4. It's a good bet that Najee Harris receives nearly the entire workload with Cordarrelle Patterson also dealing with an injury. Harris is a locked in RB2.

Gannon injury update:
TE McBride good to go Sunday.
DL Tonga and K Prater “we will see.”
CB Garrett Williams “probably not” going to play

Related Players: Elijah Higgins

With McBride ready to go, he needs to be in lineups, having accrued 14-122-0 on 20 targets through three games. Higgins can readily be dropped back into waiver wires.

Malik Nabers is still in concussion protocol and is OUT for Sunday for the Giants at Seahawks , per Brian Daboll.

Related Players: Wan'Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt

This is a brutal loss to the offense in what has been a fantastic rookie season for Nabers. The whole offense is essentially a stay-away, though Robinson should continue to be targeted in PPR leagues, but more of a deep WR3 in other formats.

Sean McDermott says on WGR550 that DT Ed Oliver, WR Khalil Shakir, DT Austin Johnson, and S Taylor Rapp are OUT for Sunday’s game

Related Players: Mack Hollins, Curtis Samuel, Keon Coleman, Dalton Kincaid

The receiving room behind Shakir has been mostly miserable through the first month of the season, though the rookie Coleman has looked pretty good in his limited role. None of them are particularly exciting, though Coleman can be used as a desperation Flex in a game that should see him with a high route participation.

Kincaid becomes a top-5 option at the tight end position.

The Chiefs place WR Rashee Rice on IR as he awaits more info; Giants WR Malik Nabers faces an uphill battle this week; Colts RB Jonathan Taylor (high-ankle) likely misses time.

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

Rapoport continues that "it's mild, though he is likely to miss some time," and it would "be a surprise" if we see him suit up in Week 5. Bad news ahead of a great matchup against this Jaguars team that seems to be circling the drain already. Fire Sermon up as a fringe RB2/3 if Taylor is forced to sit.

Texans RB Joe Mixon, who missed both practices thus far this week, is not expected to play Sunday. That means the duo of Cam Akers (4.1 yards per rush) and Dare Ogunbowale (game-winning TD) once again.

It seemed as if Mixon was trending toward playing in Week 5, but he and Dameon Pierce look like they're out. In that case, we're lining up for another Akers week, which would put him in the RB2 radar against a Bills defense that has been gashed by the run through the first month of the season.

Texans RB Joe Mixon did not practice again today due to his sprained ankle.

Related Players: Dare Ogunbowale, Dameon Pierce, Cam Akers

It seemed as if Mixon was trending toward playing in Week 5, but he and Pierce still look like they'll be questionable. In that case, we're lining up for another Akers week, which would put him in the RB2 radar against a Bills defense that has been gashed by the run through the first month of the season.

For the second straight day, Commanders RB Brian Robinson did not practice today due to a knee injury.

Related Players: Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols

This coincides with Ekeler's progress in the concussion protocol, which could end up leading to a ton of work for the veteran back in Week 5. We'll keep an eye on this situation heading into Friday.

Chiefs now have placed wide receiver Rashee Rice on injured reserve, meaning he’s out a minimum of four games.

Related Players: Xavier Worthy, Mecole Hardman, Juju Smith-Schuster, Travis Kelce, Justin Watson

It may be tough to hold Rice on your bench for a month, but he needs to be held on to in most league sizes. Kelce and Worthy figure to get the biggest bump, but keep an eye on the usage of the other ancillary pieces here in Week 5.

Daboll said RB Devin Singletary (groin) won’t practice again. Sounds like Dru Phillips (calf) and Adoree’ Jackson (calf) will be limited today.

Related Players: Tyrone Tracy, Eric Gray, Dante Miller

It's anyone's guess what the pecking order would be in this backfield without Singletary, but Tracy could be in for some extra receiving usage regardless, with Malik Nabers trending toward missing Week 5. The offense might look like a mess this week, but Tracy might end up being an interesting Flex play during the first round of Byes.

I asked Colts RB Jonathan Taylor if he’ll practice today (didn’t answer but later said “no”) and what will tell him he’s ready (or not) for Sunday:

“What’s today? Thursday, Friday, Saturday — so we got 48, really 72, but really 48 hours, so continuing to take it day by day. …”

Related Players: Trey Sermon

In a follow up question Taylor mentioned that this ankle injury "isn't as bad as 2022", but that just means he doesn't expect to hit IR. Tomorrow's injury report will tell us a lot, but it's not trending in the right direction. Consider Sermon a fringe RB2/3 if JT ends up sitting out Week 5.

While Malik Nabers (concussion) seems like a longshot to be ready for Seattle, RB Devin Singletary (groin) told me he has a chance. Wednesday was the best he’s felt since the Cowboys game.

Big couple days of practice upcoming to see if he can make it for Sunday.

Related Players: Wan'Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt

This would be a brutal loss to the offense in what has been a fantastic rookie season for Nabers. The whole offense would essentially be a stay-away, though Robinson should continue to be targeted in PPR leagues.

Raiders WR Davante Adams is not expected to play Sunday vs. the Broncos due to his hamstring injury, per league sources.

Related Players: Brock Bowers, Tre Tucker, Jakobi Meyers

There's a very real chance we've seen Adams play his last snap as a Las Vegas Raider, which leaves their receiver corps as one of the worst in the league if they don't get anyone back in a potential trade.

Falcons RB Bijan Robinson (hamstring) is off the injury report and good to go Thursday night vs. Tampa Bay.

Related Players: Tyler Allgeier

Good news after Robinson missed two "expected" practices earlier in the week. If Robinson is good to go, he's good to go in your lineup but it's worthwhile to point out that Allgeier has logged a little more work on the ground (24 carries last three games) than we would have expected, so if Robinson is limited at all he could cede more rushes than usual.

Vikings will open T.J. Hockenson’s PUP practice window on FRIDAY, per Kevin O’Connell. He’ll travel with the team to London and have his first practice there. Doesn’t seem to be a chance he will play vs. Jets but the process has begun.

Related Players: Josh Oliver

Hockenson is a fantastic stash anywhere he's not already rostered as he begins his return to an incredible Vikings passing attack. He will be a locked-in TE1 whenever he is able to return.

Browns players who returned to practice: Nick Chubb, David Njoku, Nyheim Hines, Pierre Strong Jr., Michael Dunn

Related Players: Jordan Akins

Akins performed well enough during Njoku's absence but not enough to get him on to fantasy radars. If Njoku plays in Week 5, he should re-take his spot in the lower-end TE1 range.

Gannon:

Trey McBride will be back at practice.

No Darius Robinson this week for practice.

Related Players: Elijah Higgins

If McBride's ready to go, he needs to be in lineups, having accrued 14-122-0 on 20 targets through three games. Higgins can readily be dropped back into waiver wires.

The Cowboys will be without WR Brandin Cooks for at least this week vs. Pittsburgh and potentially longer after an infection developed in his right knee following a procedure he had after remaining in NY following the win against the Giants, according to multiple sources.

Related Players: Jalen Tolbert, Jalen Brooks, Ryan Flournoy, KaVontae Turpin

Cooks looked as if he were set up to get a ton of work in this pass-heavy option, but it never came to fruition, as he turned 19 targets into a 9-91-1 stat line. The aging speed merchant might not return to his role if either of the Jalens can step up, and is now a drop candidate who we can aim for later in the year if he does happen to regain the de facto WR2 role.

For this week, consider Tolbert a deep Flex play, while CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson should be started everywhere.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor is not practicing today due to his ankle injury.

Related Players: Trey Sermon, Tyler Goodson

It's still early in the week, so there's no need to panic, but make sure you have Sermon on your roster where he's available. Sermon would very likely work as the RB1, but a rotation or simply a lighter workload is probably in the cards. Consider him an RB3 for fantasy purposes if Taylor is sidelined in Week 5.

The Falcons’ injury report for Tuesday is the same as the one they handed in on Monday.

Running back Bijan Robinson (hamstring) and right tackle Kaleb McGary (knee) are both listed as limited participants for the second straight day. The Falcons have not held a full practice session yet this week, so their participation level has been an estimate both times.

Related players: Tyler Allgeier

It remains good news that Robinson is at least limited, which hopefully gives him a chance to play on a short week on Thursday night. Tomorrow's injury report will hopefully give us a little more indication about his status for TNF. If Allgeier is on your wire he should be picked up.

Austin Ekeler just told us on Grant & Danny that he is tracking toward being able to play on Sunday.

Related players: Brian Robinson, Jeremy McNichols

Ekeler missed Week 4 but it sounds like he expects to be back on the field against the Browns. The post went on to say Ekeler said he's feeling more like himself as he completes the steps of the concussion protocol. The return of Ekeler likely means less work for McNichols who had a great game in Week 4 in Arizona.

Plan is for Tyler Huntley to start again for Dolphins at QB Sunday vs. Patriots, per HC Mike McDaniel.

Related players: Tua Tagovailoa, Skylar Thompson, Tim Boyle, De'Von Achane, Raheem Mostert, Jaylen Wright, Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle

It wasn't good in Week 4 but the Dolphins don't really have any other option other than Boyle. No one on the Dolphin offense can really be trusted in fantasy lineups and it seemed like the Titans took away the run game daring Huntley to beat them, which didn't happen. The Dolphins have a bye in Week 6 and Tua is rumored to be back for Week 8, so those holding fantasy players on the Dolphins will need some patience over the next several weeks.

Yes, Davante Adams likely has played his last game as a Raider.

Via NFL Media, Adams has informed the Raiders that he would like to be traded.

Related players: Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, DJ Turner, Brock Bowers

Adams missed Week 5 after injuring his hamstring in practice last week. Reports began to circulate the Raiders have reached out to teams who may be interested in trading for Adams. The story said since they’d likely cut him after the season, before his $35.64 million salary hits the books, they wouldn’t get a compensatory draft pick when he signs elsewhere. The only way to get compensation is to trade him before the deadline, which arrives in five weeks, the story said.

Packers WR Christian Watson has a high-ankle sprain, but I'm told it's a mild one.

Related players: Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks, Bo Melton, Jayden Reed

The post went on to say Watson is "unlikely" to land on IR. The post added it's really good news for both the Packers and Watson, especially considering how serious the injury initially appeared. With any time Watson is out, Doubs and Wicks should see additional snaps behind Reed at WR.

Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers was moving gingerly near the end of Sunday’s loss to the Broncos and he gave an update on his physical condition Tuesday.

“I’m feeling a little banged up,” Rodgers said. “Took some shots, knee’s a little swollen, but you know just kind of wear-and-tear after Week 4.”

The story said there doesn’t seem to be doubt about Rodgers’s availability for Sunday’s game in London, the knee could impact his movement inside and outside of the pocket against an aggressive Vikings defense, the story added. Owners will need to decide about putting Rodgers in lineups earlier than usual since it's a London game, however.

Where there’s smoke, there may be fire when it comes to Davante Adams trade rumors.

According to Vinny Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the Raiders have begun reaching out to other teams to gauge their interest in trading for Davante Adams, showing that Las Vegas is growing open to the idea of moving the veteran wideout.

Adams, 31, has been with the Raiders since he was traded to the club during the 2022 offseason. He led the league with 14 touchdowns for the club in 2022 before catching 103 passes for 1,144 yards with eight touchdowns in 2023.

Kareem Hunt could be the Chiefs’ starter Monday night against the New Orleans Saints. If that happens, Carson Steele would be the primary backup, an option on short-yardage plays, and seven-year veteran Samaje Perine would remain in his role as the third-down back.

The story said the Chiefs will likely need Hunt to provide consistent production in the next several games to help stabilize the offense with all the injuries on that side of the ball. The 29-year-old Hunt will need to prove his legs are still fresh, and if he can, he may be the top option at RB for the team. If Hunt is still on your waiver wire, he's a must-add.

The running back situation has been as confounding as it has been disappointing. The Cowboys are starting to drift away from a pure committee approach, in the sense that Rico Dowdle’s snap counts and rush attempts are noticeably greater than Ezekiel Elliott or Deuce Vaughn’s.

Related players: Dalvin Cook

The story said Elliott's value is more leadership and pass protection, and it has not been in the form of purely running the football. The story added injuries on the defense may affect when Cook is able to join the roster, but the story added Cook's time could be coming soon. For now, it looks like Dowdle is at least trending in the right direction despite the team's struggles running the ball.

The Steelers’ first loss of the season apparently won’t be prompting a quarterback change, from Justin Fields back to Russell Wilson, who technically remains QB1.

Asked on Tuesday whether he’s preparing Fields to start the Week 5 Sunday night home game against the Cowboys, coach Mike Tomlin said, “Yes I am,” via Brooke Pryor of ESPN.com.

Other reports today have said Tomlin told reporters that Wilson will have a “strong work day” on Tuesday, and that Wilson’s practice participation will increase. Wilson, per Tomlin, likely will have a “live pocket,” according to the story.

NFL beat reporter Adam Schefter believes Miami QB Tua Tagovailoa will be back this season.

Related players: Skylar Thompson, Tyler Huntley, Tim Boyle

Schefter reported Tua has been symptom free and is feeling better, and, to Schefter's knowledge, Tua hasn't been told he shouldn't come back. Schefter added Tua also wants to come back. At this point, Tagovailoa will need to miss at least two more game since he was placed on IR. Schefter added he'd be surprised if Tua didn't come back. One thing to consider is the Dolphins may need to stay afloat in the playoff race before putting him back on the field. The team sits at 1-3 so far and hasn't shown much life on offense since losing both Tua and Thompson.

Callahan: Will Levis is still the starter 100%. Said he will have an MRI, most likely an AC issue.

Related players: Mason Rudolph

Levin threw an ugly interception against the Dolphins before diving for a first down and injuring his shoulder, eventually giving way to Rudolph, who led the Titans to a win over the Dolphins. McCormick went on to say Levis really didn't throw interceptions last year as a rookie, especially like he did against Miami - another pass that was right to an opposing player. The injury is to Levis' throwing shoulder, but the Titans do have a bye in Week 5, so Levis has time to heal ahead of a Week 6 matchup, an early Sunday game against the Colts.