NFL fantasy football news and player signals for Monday, September 21, 2026
A crawlable daily synthesis of the player-specific takes STACKED extracted from monitored podcasts, videos, articles, and social posts.
Players driving the slate
Puka Nacua
25 signals10 positive, 13 negative across Injury, News, Projection.
Zach Ertz
9 signals9 positive across Depth Chart, News, Projection.
Caleb Williams
8 signals1 positive, 5 negative across Injury, Role.
Jaxson Dart
7 signals3 positive, 2 negative across Injury, Matchup, Projection.
Dallas Goedert
7 signals2 positive, 5 negative across Injury, News.
Jonathon Brooks
7 signals1 positive, 5 negative across Depth Chart, Injury, News.
Denzel Boston
6 signals6 positive across Breakout, Projection, Role.
Rashod Bateman
6 signals6 positive across News, Role, Usage.
All extracted player insights
The source notes that the Bills-Chargers matchup should feature plenty of fireworks by quarterbacks Josh Allen and Justin Herbert, though the Chargers' offensive injuries may limit his pass-catching options.
The source notes that the Bills-Chargers matchup should feature plenty of fireworks by quarterbacks Josh Allen and Justin Herbert, setting up an offensive showcase in Week 3.
Suffered an AC joint sprain in Week 2; the Bills will monitor his status throughout the week to determine his availability for Sunday's game against the Chargers.
Missed time early in the season due to a ribs injury but was able to return for the Chargers' Week 2 game against the Las Vegas Raiders, indicating recovery from the injury.
Currently on the Chargers' practice squad; appears to be a likely candidate to be called up in Week 3 to address the tight end shortage created by Njoku and Kolar's injuries.
With David Njoku and Charlie Kolar both on Injured Reserve, Gadsden is the only tight end on the Chargers' active roster and is in line for featured snaps at the position; the source notes the Chargers may make roster moves to reinforce the position, but Gadsden appears positioned for increased opportunity.
Placed on Injured Reserve with forearm injury; expected to miss at least four games, leaving the Chargers with minimal tight end depth.
Placed on Injured Reserve with fibula injury; expected to miss at least four games, removing him from the Chargers' tight end rotation for the foreseeable future.
Bills WR suffered an AC joint sprain in Week 2; Buffalo will monitor his status this week to determine his availability for Sunday's game against Los Angeles.
Chargers WR missed time early in the season due to a ribs injury but returned for the team's Week 2 game against Las Vegas, indicating recovery progress.
With David Njoku and Charlie Kolar both on Injured Reserve, Oronde Gadsden II is the only active tight end on the Chargers roster and is in line for featured snaps at the position.
Chargers TE placed on Injured Reserve with forearm injury; will miss at least the next four games, leaving Los Angeles with only Oronde Gadsden II at the position.
Chargers TE placed on Injured Reserve with fibula injury; will miss at least the next four games, creating a significant pass-catching shortage for Los Angeles.
You should probably Kirk yourself
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
brand new quotes on: Kyle Pitts Oronde Gadsden Rashee Rice Kenneth Walker/Emmett Johnson Bucky Irving/Kenneth Gainwell Aaron Jones workload Devaughn Vele Travis Etienne/Alvin Kamara Jadarian Price + Caleb Williams timelines (w/ reliability ratings) no AI transcript slop, ever
Jags top pass-catchers through 2 weeks, per @FantasyPtsData: Parker Washington: 34.6% target share (2nd among WRs), 90.5 YPG (9th among WRs) - - - BTJ: 19.2% target share, 40.0 YPG Brenton Strange: 9.6% target share, 20.0 YPG Jakobi Meyers: 5.8% target share, 34.0 YPG
Jags top pass-catchers through 2 weeks, per @FantasyPtsData: Parker Washington: 34.6% target share (2nd among WRs), 90.5 YPG (9th among WRs) - - - BTJ: 19.2% target share, 40.0 YPG Brenton Strange: 9.6% target share, 20.0 YPG Jakobi Meyers: 5.8% target share, 34.0 YPG
Jags top pass-catchers through 2 weeks, per @FantasyPtsData: Parker Washington: 34.6% target share (2nd among WRs), 90.5 YPG (9th among WRs) - - - BTJ: 19.2% target share, 40.0 YPG Brenton Strange: 9.6% target share, 20.0 YPG Jakobi Meyers: 5.8% target share, 34.0 YPG
Head coach Mike McCarthy stated he is 'committed' to building the Steelers' offense around Rodgers' strengths and experience, saying 'We have a quarterback that has an incredible wealth of experience. And we've built this offense based on his experiences and to play to his strengths.' However, McCarthy attributed Pittsburgh's offensive struggles primarily to the offensive line rather than Rodgers' play, noting the line lacked protection and cohesion due to preseason rotation of players and insufficient reps together.
Through two games, Rodgers has struggled significantly in Pittsburgh's offense, which ranks 30th in yards per game (249.5) and 30th in points (23 total). In Week 2's 20-3 loss to New England, Rodgers threw one interception, fumbled twice (one recovered for a scoop-and-score touchdown), was sacked four times and hit seven additional times, and averaged just 4.8 yards per attempt while frequently resorting to check downs and short passes. At 42 years old with a repaired Achilles tendon, he is not remotely close to the form that led him to four MVPs and a Super Bowl title with Green Bay.
CeeDee Lamb caught a touchdown pass from Dak Prescott, contributing to Prescott's new franchise record.
Dak Prescott set a new Cowboys franchise record for career touchdown passes, reaching 249 total after a touchdown pass to CeeDee Lamb.
Puka Nacua is officially inactive for the game due to a groin injury that flared up during practice last week.
Kenneth Walker rushed for 117 yards in the game against the Chiefs.
Jonathan Taylor was a massive factor in the Colts' game against the Chiefs, recording two touchdowns.
Devonta Smith recorded 10 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown against Tennessee. He is now considered the clear WR1 for the Eagles.
Aaron Rodgers took the blame for the team's poor offensive performance, stating he needs to be better at communicating with coaches and teammates to improve the offense's flow.
Deshaun Watson won a game for the first time in two years, leading the Browns to a victory over the Buccaneers.
Christian Watson caught a touchdown pass from Jordan Love in the fourth quarter to help the Packers force overtime against the Jets.
Zach Ertz has returned to the NFL and signed with the Eagles to provide depth at tight end while Dallas Goedert is sidelined.
Dallas Goedert has an MCL injury and is expected to be out for a while.
Jalen Hurts threw two interceptions against Tennessee but showed resolve by leading a game-winning drive in the final minute, including a touchdown pass to Darius Cooper.
Sam Darnold missed the recent game but could return to practice this week in some capacity, according to Mike McDonald.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a dynamic performance for the Seahawks, including an 82-yard touchdown catch. He is described as a highly dynamic player who is difficult to cover.
Puka Nacua is inactive for the Rams' game against the Giants due to a groin injury.
Ja'Marr Chase had an otherworldly performance against the Texans, recording seven catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns. He has 56 career touchdowns since 2021, the most in the NFL, and is considered by the source to be a top wide receiver in the league.
Rashod Bateman was the intended target on a game-ending interception thrown by Lamar Jackson in the loss to the Saints.
Chris Olave was a key target for Tyler Shuck in the Saints' comeback win against the Ravens, catching a touchdown pass.
David Njoku is being placed on injured reserve.
Saquon Barkley suffered a stinger during the Eagles' victory in Tennessee and was unable to finish the game; his status is currently being monitored.
The Falcons have officially announced that Michael Penix Jr. will make his NFL debut this Thursday against the Packers.
Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for the Commanders this Sunday in place of the injured Jayden Daniels.
Jayden Daniels is out for the upcoming week and potentially longer due to a dislocated elbow, the same injury he suffered last year. He is scheduled to see specialists early in the week.
Kyler Murray has cleared concussion protocol and is expected to start for the Vikings in their upcoming game against the Buccaneers.
Tyson Bagent is the designated backup quarterback for the Bears and will start if Caleb Williams is unable to play in the upcoming Monday night game.
Caleb Williams is dealing with a hamstring injury sustained Sunday; the team describes it as week-to-week. While he is not expected to practice this week, the team has not ruled him out for the Monday night game against the Eagles, and he is known for recovering faster than anticipated.
Puka Nacua's potential unavailability is identified as a key concern for the Rams offense in Week 2; his status directly impacts offensive production and game planning against the Giants.
Jaxson Dart and the Giants offense will face the Rams defense in Week 2 after the Giants' dominant Week 1 victory over the Cowboys; the Giants' physical approach and ability to get the ball to skill players worked well in Week 1 and could be replicated against the Rams.
Puka Nacua's availability is uncertain for the Rams' Week 2 game against the Giants; his potential absence is flagged as a key question for the Rams offense.
RB expected fantasy points per game leaders through 2 weeks, per @FantasyPtsData: 1. Jahmyr Gibbs (26.3) 2. Kenneth Walker (22.5) 3. Ashton Jeanty (22.4) 4. Jonathan Taylor (19.1) 5. Christian McCaffrey (19.0)
RB expected fantasy points per game leaders through 2 weeks, per @FantasyPtsData: 1. Jahmyr Gibbs (26.3) 2. Kenneth Walker (22.5) 3. Ashton Jeanty (22.4) 4. Jonathan Taylor (19.1) 5. Christian McCaffrey (19.0)
Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars were shut down in the second half by the Broncos' comeback; Lawrence went 1 of 6 for 28 yards in the fourth quarter with a 46.5 rating, while the Jaguars scored 13 points in the first three quarters but were held to 0 in the fourth.
Bo Nix completed 16 of 17 passes against four or fewer rushers for 205 yards and a TD, tied for the 2nd-highest completion percentage when not facing the blitz by any QB since 2025 per NextGenStats. In the fourth quarter against Jacksonville, Nix went 8 of 10 for 88 yards, a TD, and a 136.7 rating, demonstrating a trait similar to Elway and Tebow where he performs markedly better when needing to catch up late.
J.K. Dobbins got nicked up during the game against Jacksonville and was unable to finish; Sean Payton mentioned this when discussing the Broncos' running back depth and workload management.
RJ Harvey was out during the game against Jacksonville; Sean Payton mentioned his absence when discussing the Broncos' running back rotation and workload distribution.
Sean Payton expressed confidence in Coleman's ability to handle a heavier workload, stating that Coleman, along with RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins, can all function as bell cows and handle a majority of carries. The source noted Coleman looked like a veteran player and a future starter in his performance.
Waddle executed a double-move route in the Broncos' four-minute offense that left the defender with broken ankles; the source highlighted this as a rare, well-executed play that was crucial in closing out the game against Jacksonville and shutting down any potential comeback.
J.K. Dobbins was nicked up during the Week 2 game against Jacksonville and was unable to finish the game. This injury status affects the Broncos' running back depth, though Sean Payton indicated that Dobbins, along with RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman, can all function as a bell cow and handle a majority of carries when healthy.
Jonah Coleman impressed in Week 2 against Jacksonville, displaying veteran-level performance and future starter potential. Sean Payton expressed confidence in Coleman's ability to handle a heavier workload if necessary, noting that with RJ Harvey out and J.K. Dobbins nicked up and unable to finish, all three running backs can function as a bell cow and handle a majority of carries. The source posed the question 'Should Jonah Coleman be the Broncos' starting running back?' based on his performance.
Jaylen Waddle executed a highly effective double-move route during the Broncos' four-minute offense in the Week 2 win over Jacksonville, creating so much separation that the source initially suspected offensive pass interference. The play was critical in closing out the game and shutting down any potential Jacksonville comeback. The source highlighted this as their favorite play of the game, emphasizing the rarity and quality of the route execution.
Bo Nix has demonstrated elite fourth-quarter and comeback performance, a trait compared to Elway and Tebow. In Week 2 vs. Jacksonville, Nix went 8 of 10 for 88 yards and a TD with a 136.7 rating in the fourth quarter while Lawrence managed 1 of 6 for 28 yards and a 46.5 rating. Additionally, Nix completed 16 of 17 passes (94.1%) against four or fewer rushers for 205 yards and a TD, tied for the 2nd-highest completion percentage when not facing the blitz by any QB since 2025 per NextGenStats. The source notes this efficiency and late-game excellence is a key reason the Broncos have been a strong comeback and fourth-quarter team.
Explicitly noted by head coach Kyle Shanahan as someone who will not be asked to do more despite the 49ers' receiver injuries, suggesting he is not in line for increased opportunities.
Has a dinged hip but head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated it would be managed throughout the week, suggesting Evans is not expected to miss significant time.
Rookie receiver required left ankle surgery following an erred misstep on a route in Week 1; expected to be out for 10 weeks, compounding the 49ers' receiver room injuries.
Lost to a torn ACL in Week 1, adding to the 49ers' receiver room injuries alongside Demarcus Robinson's high ankle sprain and De'Zhaun Stribling's ankle surgery.
Next on the 49ers depth chart behind Demarcus Robinson; positioned to receive increased opportunities following Robinson's high ankle sprain. Shanahan highlighted Hodge's recent contributions, noting he had a catch late in the Week 2 game and made key blocks against the Rams. Shanahan expects Hodge and other backup receivers to step up and get more involved as starters are lost.
Next on the 49ers depth chart behind Demarcus Robinson; positioned to receive increased opportunities following Robinson's high ankle sprain. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated the team expects Cowing and other backup receivers to step up and get more involved in the offense.
Next on the 49ers depth chart behind Demarcus Robinson; positioned to receive increased opportunities following Robinson's high ankle sprain. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated the team expects Watkins and other backup receivers to step up and get more involved in the offense.
Suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 2 against Miami on Sept. 20 after catching a 20-yard pass from Brock Purdy; carted off the field with 6:46 left in the second quarter and did not return. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated Robinson would be out for three to six weeks, with most likely placement on injured reserve. Shanahan noted that high ankle sprains typically range from three weeks at best (very rare) to six weeks.
Josh Downs route share for the 1st 2 weeks of the 2026 season: 85.2% Previous career high: 72.9%
Charlie Kolar is heading to injured reserve as the Chargers enter a brutal stretch of schedule with road games against the Bills and Seahawks.
David Njoku is heading to injured reserve as the Chargers enter a brutal stretch of schedule with road games against the Bills and Seahawks.
Ladd McConkey currently ranks 5th among WRs in yards per route run, behind only Chris Olave, CeeDee Lamb, Parker Washington, and... JSN.
Marcus Mariota is a high-priority superflex waiver add, with the source suggesting bids of 40-60% due to his rushing upside and past performance as a starter.
Rashad Bateman is a recommended waiver add with suggested FAAB bids of 5-10%.
Adonai Mitchell is a recommended waiver add as the clear number two target in his offense, with favorable matchups ahead.
Denzel Boston is a high-priority waiver add, with recommended FAAB bids between 10% and 20%.
Jonah Coleman is the top waiver wire priority, with recommended FAAB bids ranging from 16% to 30%.
Geno Smith is identified as a good streaming quarterback option due to upcoming favorable matchups against the Lions and Bears.
Pat Freiermuth is recommended as a tight end streamer against the Bengals, who historically struggle to defend the position and recently allowed 12 catches to Dalton Schultz.
Drew Lock is suggested as a streaming quarterback option for the Seattle-Washington matchup, with the source noting he has a clear primary target.
Kyler Murray is recommended as a top streaming quarterback option if he returns to the lineup for the upcoming matchup against the Buccaneers.
The source strongly advises cutting Marvin Harrison due to a concerning drop in route participation and lack of production, regardless of quarterback health.
The source advises cutting Wan'Dale Robinson, noting he lacks the necessary target volume in the Giants' offense to be fantasy-relevant.
The source advises keeping Rico Dowdle, noting that his snap share dip in week two was likely due to being banged up rather than a permanent loss of role.
The source maintains a positive stance on Bucky Irving as a valuable RB2, advising against cutting him unless it is for a high-priority add like Jonah Coleman.
Jonathan Brooks is clearly behind Chuba Hubbard in the Panthers' backfield; the source advises cutting him if he is labeled 'week-to-week' or if higher-upside options like Jonah Coleman are available.
Quinton Johnston has failed to capitalize on opportunities despite injuries to teammates; the source notes the Chargers offense looks broken and suggests he is not a priority hold.
Makai Lemon is viewed as a long-term stash who has not yet earned a role; the source suggests cutting him in 10-team leagues if better options like Denzel Boston are available.
Makai Lemon is a long-term stash who has not yet produced, recording only one catch for 14 yards over two weeks. He should only be held in deeper formats or by those with roster flexibility.
Keenan Allen is the clear number three receiver for the Bears and is a viable depth option in deeper leagues (14+ teams) if needed.
Keon Coleman is not equipped to be an NFL number one receiver and is part of an unpredictable Bills passing attack where production is difficult to forecast.
Khalil Shakir offers a reliable PPR floor but has a limited ceiling in the Bills' offense, which remains unpredictable regarding which receiver will produce each week.
Dontayvion Wicks has seen concerning usage trends, including a significant drop in snap percentage in Week 2 and being out-routed by Makai Lemon in the fourth quarter. While he remains a potential target, these underlying metrics are worrisome.
Trey Tucker is an inconsistent fantasy asset whose role is clouded by a rotation of other receivers and the return of Brock Bowers. He is not a reliable start despite his occasional big games.
Adonai Mitchell is the top wide receiver waiver target. He has solidified his role as the team's number two receiver and has favorable upcoming matchups against the Lions and Bears. He is a vertical threat who can be acquired for a low FAAB bid.
Mark Andrews is struggling significantly compared to his historical level of play, effectively relegated to tight end two status for fantasy purposes despite receiving target opportunities.
Rashad Bateman is a priority waiver add. He has established himself as the clear number two receiver in the offense and is being used in diverse ways by the coaching staff. Even with Zay Flowers returning, Bateman holds value as a WR3/4 candidate.
There is an expectation that Josh Jacobs could face a four-to-six game suspension, potentially keeping him out until Week 7, though no official NFL punishment has been announced yet.
Chris Brooks remains the designated passing-down back in his team's backfield, though he struggled with effectiveness in his most recent game.
Marshawn Lloyd appears to have been passed on the depth chart by Caleb Johnson after a fumble and a less effective performance in Week 2. While he split snaps evenly with Johnson, his role as the primary early-down back is now in question.
AJ Dillon is identified as the next man up in the backfield behind Jonathan Brooks, making him a deep-league stash given Brooks' injury concerns.
Jonathan Brooks is dealing with a recurring groin injury that forced him to exit his recent game. His inability to stay on the field makes him a risky asset despite his talent.
Emmanuel Wilson saw increased usage following Jadarian Price's injury. While he is an early-down option, his role remains tied to the health of Price and competition with George Helani. He is a depth stash if Price misses time.
Tank Bigsby is a potential fill-in if Saquon Barkley misses time, though the backfield is expected to remain a split with Will Shipley. While Bigsby out-touched Shipley 15 to 9, he was out-snapped 23 to 19, suggesting a limited ceiling rather than a 'smash' play.
Denzel Boston is a high-upside wide receiver target coming off two productive weeks. While he is a strong dynasty asset, his redraft value is capped by quarterback uncertainty between Deshaun Watson and Shador Sanders. The source recommends a FAAB bid of 10-20%.
Jonah Coleman is the top waiver priority for Week 3, especially for those needing running back help. He is expected to serve as a bell cow in Sean Payton's offense if RJ Harvey and J.K. Dobbins are out. Even if they are active, he is projected to maintain a significant role. The source recommends a FAAB bid of 16-29%, with some analysts suggesting up to 35-40% for desperate teams.
Saquon Barkley is returning to action versus the Titans after a scare, indicating he has cleared injury concerns and is available for Week 3 play.
Rookie tight end Eli Stowers is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, contributing to the Eagles' tight end depth crisis that prompted the signing of veteran Zach Ertz.
Dallas Goedert suffered a sprained MCL in Week 2, creating a tight end vacancy that the Eagles are filling with veteran Zach Ertz on the active roster for Week 3's Monday Night Football game against the Chicago Bears.
Zach Ertz is signing with the Eagles' practice squad ahead of Week 3 and is expected to be elevated to the active roster for Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears. He is filling in for Dallas Goedert, who suffered a sprained MCL in Week 2, and for rookie tight end Eli Stowers, who is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. The 35-year-old is returning from an ACL tear sustained in December and had remained unsigned while recovering until two weeks into the 2026 season.
More on Jaylen Waddle in Week 2: + 38.1% 1st read target share (8th highest of any WR) + 0.45 TPRR (2nd) + 6.27 YPRR (2nd) After the Week 1 blunder, Waddle has quickly returned to being one of the NFL's most efficient WRs. He's top 15 in YPRR (2.87) and TPRR (0.27).
Quarterback Ty Simpson is inactive for Week 2 against the New York Giants, listed as emergency third quarterback.
Wide receiver CJ Daniels is inactive for Week 2 against the New York Giants.
Wide receiver Jordan Whittington is inactive for Week 2 against the New York Giants due to a quadriceps injury.
Puka Nacua is inactive for Week 2 against the New York Giants due to a hip injury.
Cam Skattebo displayed aggressive, physical running in the Giants' debut under John Harbaugh, running over defenders with reckless abandon and demonstrating high-impact rushing performance.
Jaxson Dart delivered an impressive performance in the Giants' debut under John Harbaugh, demonstrating competent quarterback play with accurate passing.
Puka Nacua will be unavailable for the Rams' Monday Night Football matchup against the New York Giants, creating a notable absence in Los Angeles' receiving corps.
Cam Skattebo was running over people with aggressive, fearless play in the Giants' opening game under John Harbaugh, showing no self-preservation instincts and demonstrating physical dominance.
Jaxson Dart was throwing darts in the Giants' debut under John Harbaugh, demonstrating competent quarterback play in the team's opening performance.
Puka Nacua is unavailable for the Rams' Monday Night Football matchup against the New York Giants, removing a key offensive weapon from Los Angeles' passing attack.
Stafford was energized by Donald's return and entrance, saying postgame that Donald's arrival 'jacked up' the entire team and created positive momentum heading into the game.
Winston came in as the backup QB for the Giants after Jaxson Dart's injury and struggled against the Rams' defense, completing 11 of 27 passes with an interception in the 28-6 loss.
Dart suffered an injury during the Giants' Week 2 loss to the Rams and did not finish the game, forcing the team to rely on backup QB Jameis Winston for the remainder of the contest.
Harris was tackled for a 3-yard loss by Aaron Donald on third-and-2 at the Los Angeles 3-yard line late in the second quarter, forcing the Giants to settle for a field goal instead of a touchdown in a 14-3 game.
Harris was tackled for a 3-yard loss by Aaron Donald on third-and-2 at the Rams' 3-yard line in the first half, a key defensive stop that kept the Giants out of the end zone and forced them to settle for a field goal on the next down.
Nabers exited the Week 2 game against the Rams with a shoulder injury but managed to return; the Giants' star wideout has a history of injury misfortune, having torn his ACL last year after a propitious start, raising concerns about durability.
Winston, an 11-year veteran, came in for the injured Dart but was unprepared for the moment, completing just 11 of 27 passes for 111 yards, no touchdowns and 1 interception; his lack of chemistry with New York's skill players was evident through throws falling too short and easy misreads, significantly dimming the Giants' playoff odds.
Dart suffered a knee injury on the opening drive of the Giants' Week 2 matchup against the Rams and was ruled out after halftime; he managed to walk off on his own, but an official diagnosis is not yet known, creating uncertainty around the Giants' quarterback situation.
Nacua is nursing an injured hip, which limited his availability in the Rams' Week 2 victory over the Giants and increased target volume for Davante Adams.
Stafford finished the night with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception on 22 of 31 completions for 327 yards, powering the Rams offense through the connection with Davante Adams.
With Puka Nacua nursing an injured hip, Adams hauled in 8 catches on 10 targets for 195 yards and 2 touchdowns against the Giants; his elite catch-making was a sight to behold as New York had no answer for him on Monday Night Football.
Tight end Thomas Fidone II is inactive for the Week 2 game against the Los Angeles Rams on Monday, Sept. 21.
Monken's comments signal that the head coach will be sticking with Watson as the team's QB1 at least for the near future. The source notes that the Browns have a favorable schedule ahead, facing the Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Jets over the next three weeks, which provides Watson an opportunity to build on his early-season performance.
Browns head coach Todd Monken expressed optimism about Watson's trajectory, stating he expects continued improvement and sees Watson as 'still a very young player that is gonna continue to grow' despite being 31 years old. Monken's framing acknowledges Watson's injury history and time away from football (693 days since his Achilles tear), but emphasizes there is 'a lot of football left in him' and that learning the system and improving consistency with drops and reads is part of the process. Watson has thrown for 443 passing yards and three passing touchdowns in his first two games, exceeding expectations and helping the Browns to their first win of the season.
Odell Beckham Jr. greets Aaron Donald on the field before Monday Night Football
@ScottBarrettDFB @FantasyPtsData Ashton Jeanty last year was at 77.9%, only averaged 14.5 FPG, and was still on a better offense than the 2026 Miami Dolphins <
Among players that are currently Top 24 WRs on the week: Tre Tucker Rashod Bateman Cody White Ryan Miller Joshua Palmer Tyquan Thornton
Among players that are currently Top 24 WRs on the week: Tre Tucker Rashod Bateman Cody White Ryan Miller Joshua Palmer Tyquan Thornton
Among players that are currently Top 24 WRs on the week: Tre Tucker Rashod Bateman Cody White Ryan Miller Joshua Palmer Tyquan Thornton
Among players that are currently Top 24 WRs on the week: Tre Tucker Rashod Bateman Cody White Ryan Miller Joshua Palmer Tyquan Thornton
Bears head coach Ben Johnson indicated that Williams might not practice this week following the hamstring injury, suggesting a cautious approach to his return timeline.
Williams' hamstring injury is not as severe as initially feared; the source reports his injured hamstring is 'about as good as he or the team could have hoped,' with confirmation that the hamstring did not detach from the bone, indicating a minor grade-1 strain rather than a serious long-term injury.
Rams receiver Jordan Whittington is inactive for Monday night's game against the Giants.
Puka Nacua is officially inactive for Monday night's Rams-Giants matchup due to a hip injury. He did not practice on Friday or Saturday, and reports had indicated this inactivity was trending. Nacua caught five passes for 74 yards in the Rams' season-opening loss to the 49ers.
Lamb was featured prominently in Dallas' dominant Week 2 offensive performance, including a fourth-quarter touchdown reception from Prescott that made franchise history—Prescott's TD pass to Lamb gave him more touchdown passes than any other quarterback in Cowboys franchise history. The source highlights Lamb's role in the offense's standout performance.
Prescott delivered one of the most productive games of his career in Week 2 against Washington, completing 26 of 31 passes for 279 yards and 4 touchdowns with a 143.8 passer rating and 91.1 PFF grade. He led the NFL in completion percentage over expected (18.0) and success rate (65.8%), ranked second in EPA/Play (0.459) and Adj EPA/Play (0.459), and generated +17.9 EPA across dropbacks—the most among any quarterback facing a pressure rate north of 40% over the last two seasons. When kept clean, Prescott went 17/18 for 178 yards and all 4 TDs. The source frames him as a true MVP candidate whose elite play makes Dallas' offense difficult to contain.
CeeDee Lamb was a primary target for Dak Prescott in Week 2, catching a fourth-quarter touchdown pass that helped Prescott make franchise history with his most touchdown passes as a Cowboys quarterback. The source highlights Lamb's touchdown reception as part of Prescott's standout performance, indicating Lamb's continued role as a key receiving option in Dallas' high-powered offense.
Dak Prescott delivered one of the most productive games of his career in Week 2 against Washington, completing 26 of 31 passes for 279 yards and four touchdowns with a 143.8 Passer Rating and 91.1 PFF offensive grade. He led the NFL in CPOE (18.0) and Success Rate (65.8%), was second in EPA/Play (0.459) and Adj EPA/Play (0.459), and generated +17.9 EPA across his dropbacks—the most among any quarterback facing a pressure rate north of 40% in a game over the last two seasons. When kept clean, Prescott was 17/18 for 178 yards and all 4 touchdowns. The source notes that if Prescott continues playing at this MVP-candidate level, the Cowboys' offense will be difficult for any team to contain.
Ty Simpson, the Rams' third-string quarterback, is inactive for Monday's game.
Wide receiver Jordan Whittington is inactive for Monday's Rams-Giants game.
Wide receiver C.J. Daniels is inactive for Monday's Rams-Giants game.
Tight end Thomas Fidone is inactive for Monday's Giants-Rams game.
Star wide receiver Puka Nacua, an All-Pro last season with 129 receptions, will not play for the Rams on Monday night.
Third-string quarterback inactive for Monday night's game against the Giants.
Wide receiver inactive for Monday night's game against the Giants.
Wide receiver inactive for Monday night's game against the Giants.
Tight end inactive for Monday night's game against the Rams.
Star wide receiver and All-Pro from last season (129 catches) will not play for the Rams in Monday night's game against the Giants.
Puka Nacua (hip) officially inactive. Najee Harris officially active for Giants debut. All our projections for tonight's game are here: <https://establishtherun.com/draftkings-showdown-and-fanduel-single-game-projections/?site=DK>
Rams WR Puka Nacua officially is inactive tonight. [Retweeted](
With Puka Nacua inactive, Davante Adams becomes the sole veteran receiving option for Matt Stafford against a Giants defense that held Dak Prescott to 175 passing yards and CeeDee Lamb to 44 receiving yards in Week 1.
In Week 1 loss to San Francisco 49ers in Australia, Nacua recorded five receptions on nine targets for 74 yards.
Ruled inactive for Week 2 vs. Giants due to hip injury; appeared on injury list Friday with hip issue and didn't practice Saturday due to groin soreness, per Rams head coach Sean McVay.
Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert suffered an MCL sprain that will cause him to miss a few weeks, creating a near-term absence at the position and prompting the Eagles to sign veteran Zach Ertz to the practice squad.
Veteran tight end Zach Ertz is signing with the Eagles' practice squad and will presumably spend a short time there before being added to the active roster. This move comes after Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert suffered an MCL sprain that will cause him to miss a few weeks, creating an immediate depth need at the position.
Colin Cowherd’s “Where Colin was wrong” “Brock Purdy and the Niners look fantastic. I said they were too old, too brittle and they would be third in the division. I think Brock Purdy looks, so far, as good as any quarterback in this league. Through 2 weeks, Brock has been transformative. He’s not missing on anything…. I was wrong. They look like a sensational high end playoff team.” 🎥: @TheHerd
People that were going against Puka tonight:
Puka Nacua (hip) is officially inactive for Monday's game against the Giants.
Get ready for a lot of 12 and 13 personnel Think we functionally see Terrance Ferguson on the field a ton more (I can’t make them throw it to him) Going back to the Preservation of Puka days Davante Adams should have a very nice night
Get ready for a lot of 12 and 13 personnel Think we functionally see Terrance Ferguson on the field a ton more (I can’t make them throw it to him) Going back to the Preservation of Puka days Davante Adams should have a very nice night
Puka Nacua (hip) inactive for Week 2.
Rams WR Puka Nacua officially is OUT.
Roush ran a route on the final play of the Bears' Week 2 game while Colston Loveland was asked to stay in and block (unsuccessfully), illustrating the reduced role for Loveland in Ben Johnson's offense.
Williams suffered a hamstring injury, which is affecting the Bears' passing game and the fantasy outlook for receivers like Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III. The source notes that Burden's 71% route participation rate must improve and Williams must return before Burden can be trusted as an every-week option.
Meyers dealt with a thumb injury in Week 2, which contributed to reduced route participation for other Jaguars receivers. He had an 88% route share in Week 2 despite the injury.
Thomas dealt with a shoulder injury in Week 2, which contributed to reduced route participation for other Jaguars receivers. He had a 74% route share in Week 2 despite the injury.
St. Brown is referenced as a comparison point for Parker Washington's elite utilization, with both players getting elite utilization by playing all over the formation. Washington ranks one spot ahead of St. Brown in PPG ranking through two games.
Smith-Njigba leads the NFL with a 38% target share through two games, one spot ahead of Parker Washington (38% target share, second in NFL). This comparison is used to contextualize Washington's elite utilization.
McMillan's emergence, along with Jalen Coker, may have created a shift in the Panthers' offensive identity under Brad Idzik's play-calling, moving from a run-balanced attack to a pass-heavy approach. The Panthers have increased their dropback rate to 11% DBOE (1st in NFL) and are mixing personnel groupings with play action on 28% of dropbacks.
Young has responded to the Panthers' offensive shift with 361 and 287 passing yards with three TDs in each of his first two games. The Panthers have increased their dropback rate to 11% DBOE (1st in NFL) from -4% DBOE (25th) in 2025, and are mixing personnel groupings and using play action on 28% of dropbacks. However, the source notes caution given Young's three-year history of struggling to provide passing yardage totals that can support two pass catchers, but is giving the passing offense a small upgrade in rest-of-season projections.
Raymond is receiving significant playing time and schemed targets despite being a budget-bin free agent, leading the Bears with a 76% route share in Week 2. He is patrolling shallower areas of the field with an average route depth of 8.4 (versus 9.7 for Burden), which aligns with the Bears' third-worst pressure rate allowed at 44%, skewing targets to shorter routes. Ben Johnson is playing Raymond more than Round 1 and Round 2 picks Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III.
Burden downgrades to high-end WR4 status for now. While his underlying data on route tree is strong with 44% of routes in the in-breaking category, his 71% route participation rate is too low and must improve before he can be trusted as an every-week option. His Rookie Super Model rating was not elite, and he never fully capitalized on his role expansion late last season in terms of fantasy production. The source is holding or buying rather than selling with the long view in mind, pending improvement in route participation and Caleb Williams' return from hamstring injury.
Burden's route share held steady at 71% in Week 2, but he led the team with a 24% target share while Kalif Raymond led the team with a 76% route share, competing directly for playing time. Raymond is patrolling shallower areas of the field (average route depth 8.4 versus 9.7 for Burden), with 19% of Burden's routes being go routes. The Bears rank third-worst in pressure rate allowed at 44%, which could be skewing targets to Raymond, who rarely runs deep route concepts.
Loveland downgrades to low-end TE1 territory due to the downturn in routes and an injury to Caleb Williams (hamstring). However, the source is holding or buying rather than selling, given his strong Rookie Super Model rating and historical pedigree. The early-season woes cannot be ignored, but there is conviction that this will win out over time.
Loveland's route participation rate fell from 89% in Week 1 to 69% in Week 2, and he was targeted only 8% of the time. He is averaging 0.7 PPG with a 40 Utilization Score. In Week 2, Sam Roush ran a route on the final play while Loveland was asked to stay in and block (unsuccessfully). Despite his No. 4 rating in the Rookie Super Model all-time and strong closeout to his rookie campaign, the early-season downturn in routes is concerning.
The Panthers have shifted their offensive identity under Brad Idzik's play-calling (taking over from Dave Canales), moving from a run-balanced attack away from the passing game to a pass-heavy approach. Dropback Rate Over Expected increased from -4% DBOE (25th) in 2025 to 11% DBOE (1st) in 2026. Bryce Young has responded with 361 and 287 passing yards with three TDs in each of his first two games. The Panthers are mixing personnel groupings and using play action on 28% of dropbacks (sixth in motion at 61%). Coker's emergence, along with Tetairoa McMillan, may have created this offensive shift.
Coker has collected 33.8 and 14.6 fantasy points over his first two games and ranks WR6 in PPG (24.2) with a Utilization Score of 94. His underlying utilization is strong: 90% route share (18th), 37 routes per game (12th), 29% target share (8th), 9.0 targets per game (5th). Historically, WRs with Coker's Utilization Score have been locks for WR1 status. Coker upgrades to mid-range WR3 status and offers strong WR2 upside.
Washington aligns from the slot on 54% of snaps and is in motion at the snap on 14% of pass plays, playing all over the formation similar to elite utilization players like Amon-Ra St. Brown. He is not a typical slot receiver but is pushing downfield and gobbling up air yards. In 12-personnel sets (where Jaguars rank third at 32%), Washington has an 83% route share, a positive development given uncertainty about rotation in heavy sets.
Washington ranks WR11 with 18.1 PPG through two games and owns a 38% target share (second in NFL, trailing only Jaxon Smith-Njigba). He leads his team with 134 air yards per game (50% of team total) and ranks third in the NFL in air yards per game. Route participation climbed to an elite 90% in Week 2. Historical Utilization Score comparisons average 16.6 PPG with 70% securing a top-12 season; 51% finish WR7-WR12. Washington upgrades to low-end WR1 status and will climb inside the top six if route share consistently reaches 88-92% range.
Cousins is off to a 2-0 start with the Raiders and setting the table for their franchise quarterback Fernando Mendoza; he represents the road not taken for the Falcons, who signed him to a monster free agent contract before drafting Penix eighth overall weeks later.
Pitts is positioned to finally unlock his elite tight end potential with Penix's return; through two games he has one catch for 15 yards, and the source suggests his production has been severely limited by the Falcons' inability to execute a functional passing offense.
Robinson is expected to unlock his multi-tasking potential with Penix's arrival, as the threat of legitimate downfield passing will create more space and opportunity for the running back in an offense that has been severely limited by poor quarterback play.
London is positioned to benefit from Penix's return, which introduces legitimate downfield passing ability to an offense that ranked dead-last in passing yards (123.5 per game) and has struggled to reach the red zone through two games.
Penix's long-term viability as the Falcons' franchise quarterback remains uncertain; he was drafted eighth overall by the previous regime weeks after Kirk Cousins signed, and the new front office (GM Ian Cunningham, coach Kevin Stefanski, and president Matt Ryan) will evaluate whether to exercise his fifth-year option after this season or pursue a quarterback in a deep 2025 draft class featuring Dante Moore and Arch Manning.
Penix delayed his return from torn ACL due to his own comfort level with knee strength rather than medical clearance; he has perspective from two previous torn ACLs dating to college and knows the risk of returning too soon, giving him credibility in assessing his readiness despite the holdup.
Penix returns from a torn ACL to start Thursday night at Lambeau Field after being medically cleared to fully practice over three weeks ago; his return is positioned as a transformative development for the Falcons' passing offense, which ranked dead-last in the NFL at 123.5 yards per game through two games with one touchdown and seven turnovers across 25 drives.
Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for Washington against Seattle on Sunday after Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow. Mariota started eight games last season when Daniels missed time with a similar injury. Mariota has started only twice in his career against the Seahawks—once with Tennessee and once with Atlanta—and his teams have won both times.
Zach Charbonnet remains on the physically unable to perform list recovering from a torn ACL suffered during last season's playoffs. Coach Macdonald said the team hopes to soon determine a more specific timeline for his return. Charbonnet would be activated for return to practice, starting a three-week window where he could practice without being on the active roster; at the end of three weeks, if not added to the active roster, he would have to stay on the PUP list for the entire season. Macdonald said maximizing practice time is a consideration to give Charbonnet the opportunity to be ready to return.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been the primary target for Drew Lock through two games, receiving all four of Lock's touchdown passes. Against Arizona, Smith-Njigba caught all three of Lock's TD tosses, establishing him as the focal point of the passing attack.
Drew Lock has impressed in relief and as starter through two games, completing 72.9% of his passes with four touchdowns (all to Jaxon Smith-Njigba) and zero turnovers. Lock was 19 for 26 for 235 yards and three touchdowns against Arizona. Coach Macdonald expressed confidence in Lock's play and personality, saying 'the players saw the best version of him out on the field.' The coaching staff is unsure how to disperse first-team snaps between Lock and Darnold this week.
Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said Darnold is expected to return to practice in some capacity on Wednesday, ahead of the initially expected recovery timeline from his glute injury suffered in the opener. Macdonald noted that Darnold's timeline had shifted for the better and he was ahead of schedule, opening up the possibility of return as soon as Sunday's game at Washington.
Grant Calcaterra was placed on IR at the end of training camp, further depleting the Eagles' tight end depth and necessitating the Ertz signing.
Rookie tight end Eli Stowers was placed on IR at the start of the season, contributing to the Eagles' tight end depth shortage that prompted the Zach Ertz signing.
Three-time Pro-Bowl tight end Zach Ertz is returning to the Eagles on the practice squad as an immediate depth contributor following injuries to Goedert, Stowers, and Calcaterra. The source notes Ertz has been a consistent redzone factor regardless of overall offensive effectiveness with Arizona and Washington, and is just 11 receptions away from breaking Harold Carmichael's franchise record (589) for all-time catches in Philadelphia. The source characterizes this reunion as 'the perfect way for him to finish out his career, while also being an instant contributor once he's acclimated and brought up to speed.'
Goedert will miss several weeks following an MCL sprain, creating immediate depth crisis at tight end and prompting the Eagles to sign Zach Ertz to the practice squad.
Grant Calcaterra was placed on injured reserve at the end of training camp, further depleting the Eagles' tight end depth and necessitating the Zach Ertz signing.
Rookie tight end Eli Stowers was placed on injured reserve at the start of the season, contributing to the Eagles' tight end depth crisis that prompted the Zach Ertz signing.
Dallas Goedert suffered an MCL sprain and will miss several weeks. This injury created the opportunity for the Eagles to bring back Zach Ertz and opened up the tight end role for the team.
Zach Ertz is 11 receptions away from breaking Harold Carmichael's franchise record of 589 catches in Philadelphia. The source positions this reunion as the perfect way for him to finish out his career while being an instant contributor, suggesting upside for both statistical milestone achievement and immediate fantasy relevance once brought up to speed.
Zach Ertz is returning to the Philadelphia Eagles on the practice squad following Dallas Goedert's MCL sprain. With rookie TE Eli Stowers on IR and Grant Calcaterra on IR, the Eagles' tight end room is depleted, leaving only Johnny Mundt and E.J. Jenkins. Ertz's signing provides an immediate boost to the position and positions him as an instant contributor once acclimated. The source notes this reunion makes sense given the lack of depth, and Ertz has been a consistent redzone factor throughout his time with the Cardinals and Commanders.
Trevor Etienne, the Panthers' fourth-round pick from last year who served as their third-string running back, was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 30 with an ankle injury and won't be eligible to return until the Panthers' fifth game: Week 6 against the Philadelphia Eagles after a Week 5 bye.
AJ Dillon, the seventh-year veteran who began his career with the Packers, will slide up the Panthers' depth chart to back up Chuba Hubbard if Jonathon Brooks misses time as expected with his groin injury. Through two games of 2026, Dillon has eight carries for 25 yards.
With Jonathon Brooks sidelined by a groin injury, Chuba Hubbard remains the Panthers' lead running back and is healthy. Even before Brooks' ailment, Hubbard was vastly out-touching his backup with 12 carries and two passing targets to Brooks' five carries and one target through two games of 2026.
Brooks' early career has been marred by various injuries. An ACL tear he sustained in his final year of college kept the second-round pick out until Week 12 of his rookie season; three weeks later, he re-tore the same ACL and missed the remainder of that year and all of 2025. Now, as a third-year back in 2026, he is back on the injury report two games into the season with a groin injury.
With Brooks sidelined by his groin injury, the Panthers' depth chart shifts: Chuba Hubbard remains the lead back, AJ Dillon slides up to back up Hubbard, and Trevor Etienne remains on injured reserve. Even before Brooks' ailment, Hubbard was vastly out-touching his backup with 12 carries and two passing targets to Brooks' five carries and one target through two games.
Brooks is dealing with a groin injury after aggravating an ailment he's been dealing with since training camp; Tom Pelissero reported on Monday, Sept. 21 that the Panthers' third-year back is considered week-to-week with the injury. He left the Panthers' Week 2 win over the Atlanta Falcons early and walked back to the locker room with trainers, ruled questionable to return and ultimately missed the rest of the game. Panthers head coach Dave Canales said Brooks underwent tests on his injury, and Pelissero reported Brooks was getting a second opinion on the ailment.
Sam Darnold was hurt in the opener and is expected to practice this week with a potential return against the Commanders; his status remains fluid pending practice participation.
Drew Lock has thrown for 422 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions in two victories in relief of Darnold, who was hurt in the opener; Lock's efficient performance in a starting role demonstrates immediate fantasy upside if Darnold's injury extends.
Justin Herbert ain’t slick… bro wants Jeremiah Smith 😭
Puka is warming up ahead of tonight's game 👀
Suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings and hobbled off the field; the injury is not as severe as initially feared, and he is expected to return in one to two weeks, directly impacting his fantasy availability and the Bears' offensive performance.
Caleb Williams suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings, hobbling off the field in the fourth quarter. The source reports the injury isn't as severe as initially feared, and he could return within a week or two.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 155 receiving yards on 11 targets in Week 2, finishing with three touchdowns. The source highlights JSN as a key weapon for Seattle's offense, which outgained Arizona by +2.5 yards per play and dominated time of possession.
Drew Lock finished fourth in total EPA among all quarterbacks in Week 2, with a 51.9% passing success rate, 73.1% completion percentage, and three touchdowns. Despite the Cardinals' loss to Seattle, Lock's efficiency metrics rank among the league's best, suggesting he has the capability to put up points against San Francisco in Week 3.
Kyle Shanahan called Brock Purdy's Week 2 performance close to "flawless." The source notes that San Francisco's offense has one of the highest floors in the NFL, and against Arizona's defense—which allowed Seattle to rush for 123 yards after contact—the 49ers may not need an encore performance from Purdy to win and cover as 8.5-point home favorites in Week 3.
WR Bo Melton fully participated in practice Monday, Sept. 21 despite a neck injury, indicating recovery progress.
QB Sam Darnold (glute) to practice "in some capacity" on Wednesday, per HC Mike Macdonald.
Macdonald: Seahawks plan for Sam Darnold (glute) to practice "in some capacity" on Wednesday.
Three-time Pro-Bowl tight end Zach Ertz, who played in Philadelphia from 2013-‘21 and helped the team win its first Super Bowl, is returning to the city and signing with the Eagles practice squad, per sources. The Eagles lost TE Dallas Goedert to a sprained MCL and now are turning to Ertz, who spent the past two seasons in Washington. [Retweeted](
Three-time Pro-Bowl tight end Zach Ertz, who played in Philadelphia from 2013-‘21 and helped the team win its first Super Bowl, is returning to the city and signing with the Eagles practice squad, per sources. The Eagles lost TE Dallas Goedert to a sprained MCL and now are turning to Ertz, who spent the past two seasons in Washington. [Retweeted](
TE Zach Ertz is returning to the Eagles practice squad. HE’S BACK.
Schefter: Zach Ertz to sign with the Eagles practice squad.
Cam Ward has thrown for fewer than 200 yards in 10 of his 18 full NFL games. The Titans are 3-15 in that stretch.
Star wideout Puka Nacua is ruled out for Week 2 Monday Night Football matchup against the Giants due to a hip injury he's been dealing with.
Reigning MVP Matthew Stafford sputtered in Week 1 against San Francisco, throwing for just 155 yards and an interception; the Rams offense appeared sluggish in their season-opening loss in Australia.
Star receiver Malik Nabers made his return from a torn ACL in Week 1, reeling in 69 yards on six catches against Dallas; his return marks a significant addition to the Giants' passing game after missing time with injury.
Second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart fired on all cylinders in Week 1 against Dallas, completing 79.3% of attempts for 230 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions while adding 54 rushing yards; Giants steamrolled the Cowboys in primetime under new head coach John Harbaugh.
Placed on injured reserve with forearm injury; will miss at least four games. Kolar was seen on the sideline early in the second half with a sling around his arm.
Placed on injured reserve with fibula injury; will miss at least four games. Njoku was carted off the field following his injury, indicating severity.
Kolar is placed on injured reserve with a forearm injury sustained against the Raiders; he was seen on the sideline early in the second half with a sling around his arm and will miss at least four games.
Njoku is placed on injured reserve with a fibula injury sustained against the Raiders on Sunday; he was carted off the field and will miss at least four games.
MarShawn Lloyd made poor decision-making in the running game in Week 2, including passing over an open point of attack on his first carry. The source notes that while Lloyd's decision-making was problematic, much of the running game's woes stem from blockers not doing their jobs.
Tucker Kraft, who is usually a strong blocker for his position, made mental mistakes in the running game in Week 2. The source notes that Kraft and Watson, both typically reliable blockers, were making mental errors that contributed to the ground game's struggles, and Kraft had a relatively poor game by his standards.
Matthew Golden had at least four drops in Week 2, including one on the play where Zach Bako-Bewele was injured. The source counted at least four drops between Golden and Watson, with Golden contributing to the receiving corps' failure to help Love execute the passing game.
Christian Watson had at least four drops in Week 2, including on a play flagged for illegal formation, a third-and-seven in the red zone, a corner route (bang-bang play), and a play where he took a shot in the mid-section over the middle late in the fourth quarter. Watson, who is usually a strong blocker, also made mental blocking mistakes in the running game, prompting criticism from his father on Twitter about his laziness as a blocker.
Jayden Reed suffered a neck injury in Week 2 against the Jets and did not return to the game, leaving the Packers' receiving corps depleted.
Love missed throws he typically makes, particularly on shorter routes like swings, curls and drags, resulting in incompletions. Some of these misses occurred before the sack-fumble that injured his hand, suggesting mechanical issues beyond the injury. The source notes Love wasn't on the injury report Monday despite the hand numbness, but his accuracy on short routes was notably off.
Love played spooked in Week 2 against the Jets, bailing out of the pocket prematurely despite adequate protection. On the sack-fumble on first down, he had a good pocket but abandoned it to avoid pressure, refusing to throw to a wide-open drag route and losing feeling in his throwing hand. The source attributes this to lingering panic from the Vikings game, noting Love was playing really good football before Week 1 went poorly; he needs to regain trust in his offensive line.
MarShawn Lloyd made poor decision-making on his carries in Week 2, passing over an open point of attack on the first carry. The source notes Green Bay's backs are making bad decisions, though much of the running game's woes stem from blockers not doing their job.
Tucker Kraft had a poor game by his standards in Week 2, making mental mistakes in blocking. The source notes Kraft is usually really good as a blocker for his position but was making mental mistakes in the running game, including being late off the ball on Johnson's fumble and missing an assignment that allowed a free runner.
Matthew Golden had a poor game by his standards in Week 2, dropping passes on at least four occasions, including on the play where Zach Bako-Bewele was injured. The source notes Golden and Watson needed to make more plays to help Jordan Love.
Christian Watson had a poor game by his standards in Week 2, dropping passes on multiple plays including the play flagged for illegal formation, a third-and-seven in the red zone, and a play where he took a shot over the middle late in the fourth quarter. The source notes Watson is usually really good as a blocker but was making mental mistakes in the running game, with his father even criticizing him on Twitter for lazy blocking.
Jordan Love played spooked in Week 2, bailing out of good pockets and making panicky decisions. On the sack-fumble, Love had a good pocket on first down but bailed out and failed to throw to a wide-open drag, resulting in a numb throwing hand. He also missed shorter routes like swings, curls and drags that he typically makes. The source attributes some issues to weather and his hand injury, but notes Love was playing really good football before the Vikings game went wrong.
Jayden Reed suffered a neck injury in Week 2 against the Jets and did not return to the game, leaving the Packers' receiving corps depleted.
Puka Nacua going through pregame warmups 👀
Puka Nacua (hip) seen going through pregame warmup. (via @DDuggan21)
Tua Tagovailoa (oblique) was limited during practice Monday, Sept. 21.
Brian Robinson Jr. (ankle) was limited during practice Monday, Sept. 21.
Nick Muse (shoulder) was limited during practice Monday, Sept. 21.
Aaron Jones is considered startable, especially with Jordan Mason out. While his lack of targets (one through two weeks) is unexpected, he remains a reliable option as the primary running back when healthy, as he was the only back to see a touch in his most recent game.
Josh Jacobs is rising in rankings, but his fantasy value is tempered by a poor Packers offensive line and his current injury status, which keeps him from being a 'set it and forget it' RB1/RB2.
Rachaad White played 52% of snaps and saw significant usage as a receiver recently, though the blowout nature of the game against the Dallas Cowboys makes it difficult to determine if this usage is predictive.
Kenneth Gainwell is currently just a handcuff averaging 12 rushing yards per game, but he could become an exciting fantasy asset if Bucky Irving were to get injured.
Jonah Coleman is being considered for a higher ranking than J.K. Dobbins, and he is viewed as an interesting option if Dobbins were to miss time.
MarShawn Lloyd is a technical starter for the Packers but is not a viable lineup option, as he is averaging only six fantasy points per game.
Tony Pollard has zero fantasy interest as he is averaging only six fantasy points per game on the Tennessee Titans.
Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to continue receiving work alongside Trevian Henderson. He is currently viewed as a startable option only if Henderson is benched or injured.
Jakory Croskey-Merritt is ranked at 35 but is considered a desperation start only; he faces a poor offensive line, bad quarterback play from Marcus Mariota, and lacks involvement in the passing game.
Jadarian Price is viewed as a priority over Travis Etienne and Quinshon Judkins. Pending his injury status, he is expected to move near the top of his current tier.
R.J. Harvey is ranked at 34 following an injury in practice that caused him to miss Sunday's game.
Quinshon Judkins is averaging 8.5 fantasy points per game. While there is faith in his talent, his fantasy value is severely capped by the poor performance of the Cleveland Browns offense, which limits him to 27 rushing yards per contest.
Blake Corum is preferred over Rico Dowdle and is viewed as a potential league winner if Kyren Williams were to get injured.
Kyle Monangai is preferred over Rico Dowdle and is considered a potential league winner if D'Andre Swift were to get injured.
Alvin Kamara has defied expectations of being 'cooked' by returning in week two with a significant workload, outperforming initial projections.
Rico Dowdle is being moved down in rankings because he is trapped in a poor offense and functions only as a handcuff; he lacks the league-winning upside that other backups possess if their respective starters were to get injured.
Jonathan Brooks is currently dealing with an injury that has solidified Chuba Hubbard's role, though Brooks remains a potential threat to take over the backfield later in the season.
Chuba Hubbard is a must-start fantasy asset regardless of matchup, currently averaging 19 fantasy points per game. His usage is secure due to the Jonathan Brooks injury, though there is minor long-term concern regarding Brooks potentially taking over later in the season.
Travis Etienne Jr. is currently considered unusable for fantasy purposes. While he maintains a lead-back role, his overall usage is concerning, his performance has been poor, and he is being moved down in rankings to the TreVeyon Henderson range as he is not currently comparable to David Montgomery.
David Montgomery is considered startable after a strong week one, but his outlook is currently hampered by the abysmal Houston Texans offense; his value is expected to improve once Nico Collins returns to the lineup.
D'Andre Swift is a must-start running back, but he is considered a 'sell high' candidate due to sharing the backfield with Kyle Manunga and his modest receiving usage of three targets per game.
Bucky Irving is seeing phenomenal usage with 5.5 targets per game, while teammates Kenneth Gainwell and Sean Tucker are non-factors; however, his fantasy ceiling is capped by the poor quality of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers offense.
Kyren Williams' ranking is subject to change based on his performance tonight; he currently has a 45% chance to score 16+ fantasy points, with his outlook heavily influenced by Blake Corum's usage.
Despite a disappointing week, Javonte Williams maintains a highly valuable role, receiving every touch in the Denver offense and averaging 16 fantasy points per game despite only 35 rushing yards per game.
Breece Hall is showing consistent receiving usage with 63 yards last week and back-to-back 14-point games; the Jets' offense is performing better than expected, and he could potentially flip Devon Achane in rankings if the team continues to impress.
J.K. Dobbins has been disappointing due to a lack of receiving usage, drawing only two targets through the first two weeks, though he maintains 20+ opportunities per game. He also suffered a recent injury, though reports suggest he may be fine; he is currently part of a potentially messy three-man committee in Denver.
Derrick Henry is performing as the RB1, averaging 26.5 fantasy points per game with four touchdowns, and historically tends to improve as the season progresses.
Zamir White would be an A-tier running back if the Raiders offense were better; he is seeing high volume with 81% snap share and 28 opportunities in his last game.
Chase Brown is maintaining a strong role with over 70% snap share in back-to-back games, averaging 5.5 targets per game, and retaining goal-line usage.
James Cook is considered a mid-RB1 rest-of-season, supported by strong snap shares (74% in week 2, 72% in week 1) and consistent target volume, despite Josh Allen vulturing rushing touchdowns.
Kenneth Walker is officially being moved ahead of Christian McCaffrey in rankings and is considered a candidate for the S tier if he continues his current performance level.
Christian McCaffrey has seen a decline in snap share (52% in week 2) compared to previous seasons, though blowout game scripts and travel may be contributing factors to his current usage.
Jonathan Taylor is being ranked ahead of Christian McCaffrey following a strong performance, though there is concern that a lack of weapons like Alec Pierce could lead to defenses stacking the box against the Colts.
Jahmyr Gibbs is viewed as potentially untouchable and a candidate for the S tier if Bijan Robinson's situation in Atlanta continues to struggle; however, he is currently considered unusable in fantasy football due to a split backfield with Tyler Allgeier and the poor performance of the Arizona Cardinals offense, though his role may expand as he recovers from his high ankle sprain.
Darren Waller (9% rostered) is a touchdown-dependent tight end option who should see increased involvement as he gets ramped up in the offense.
Pat Freiermuth is expected to have a better performance in Week 3 than he did in Week 2.
Kenyon Sadiq is a potential matchup-based tight end play against the Lions in Week 3.
Hunter Henry (57% rostered) is a tight end option to consider if Dalton Schultz is unavailable, as he has maintained a consistent target share.
Khalif Raymond has seen consistent targets over the last two weeks and remains a player to watch.
Malik Washington is a player to monitor in Miami, having recorded 6+ targets in each of the first two games.
Xavier Hutchinson is a target-heavy option in Houston while Nico Collins is out, having recorded nine targets in his most recent game.
Trey Tucker is a viable waiver target who showed significant improvement in Week 2 against the Chargers after a quiet Week 1.
Denzel Boston is a top waiver priority at wide receiver. He has shown playmaking ability with two long touchdowns and is expected to continue improving as he gains experience.
Rashad Bateman is a short-term replacement option if Zay Flowers is sidelined, following a strong performance against the Saints.
Deshaun Watson played well against Tampa Bay and is becoming a viable option for deeper leagues, with high passer ratings since Week 1.
Daniel Jones looked improved in his recent game despite a lackluster fantasy output. He remains a dual-threat option, though the potential absence of Alec Pierce is a concern.
Michael Penix is expected to start on Thursday, potentially providing a performance upgrade for the Falcons' offense.
Marcus Mariota is a strong backup quarterback target to consider while Jayden Daniels is sidelined.
Geno Smith is a viable one-week streaming option for Week 3 against the Lions' defense.
Jacoby Brissett remains a potential streaming option for Week 3 against San Francisco, as the matchup is perceived as less difficult than his previous game against Seattle.
Kyler Murray (64% rostered) has been cleared to start in Week 3, returning sooner than expected.
Dalton Schultz (60% rostered) is a viable waiver target at tight end following a strong performance in Week 2.
Bryce Young is the top quarterback waiver target. He has scored 20+ fantasy points in seven of his last nine games, aided by Jalen Coker's emergence and the addition of Darren Waller. His outlook is expected to improve further once his starting offensive tackles return.
Emmanuel Wilson (4% rostered) is a recommended add following a high-workload performance in Week 2, despite Jadarian Price's injury status appearing minor.
Emmitt Johnson (57% rostered) is a recommended add. The offense provides opportunities for multiple backs, and they face the Dolphins in Week 3.
Will Shipley is mentioned as a player to keep in mind alongside Tank Bigsby given the uncertainty surrounding Saquon Barkley's injury.
Tank Bigsby (49% rostered) is a recommended waiver add to monitor due to Saquon Barkley's injury status.
Jonah Coleman is a priority waiver add (49% rostered) who showed promise against a tough Jacksonville run defense in Week 2. He is expected to remain in the mix even when the backfield is healthy and would likely handle rushing downs if J.K. Dobbins misses time.
There is a potential positive update regarding R.J. Harvey's availability for Week 3, though his role remains a subject of debate if he and Dobbins are both active.
There is a positive update on J.K. Dobbins, suggesting he will be able to play in Week 3.
Jaxson Dart has Dabble projections for Monday night's Giants-Rams game: more/less 214.5 passing yards and more/less 1.5 passing touchdowns. The source uses Dart as an example of how Dabble works, noting that the platform projects him at 30.5 rushing yards against the Rams.
Cam Skattebo has a Dabble projection of more/less 49.5 rushing yards for Monday night's Giants-Rams game.
Malik Nabers has a Dabble projection of more/less 61.5 receiving yards for Monday night's Giants-Rams game.
Kyren Williams has a Dabble projection of more/less 63.5 rushing yards for Monday night's Giants-Rams game. The source identifies Williams as part of the Rams' offensive weapons that should give Stafford plenty of opportunities to throw.
Puka Nacua has a Dabble projection of more/less 78.5 receiving yards for Monday night's Giants-Rams game. The source notes Nacua's availability is conditional (if he plays) when discussing the Rams' offensive weapons.
The source identifies Stafford's projection of more than 234.5 passing yards as the standout Dabble pick for Giants-Rams. Stafford threw for just 155 yards in the Rams' season-opening 27-7 loss to San Francisco; the source expects Los Angeles to be much more aggressive offensively at home Monday night against the Giants, giving Stafford plenty of opportunities to throw.
Had a near-miss 17-yard touchdown combined with a holding penalty that negated a potential 68-yard house call, representing two separate scoring opportunities lost in Week 2.
Dropped a potential 23-yard score (his fault), but also missed a walk-in 47-yard touchdown early in the game due to an uncatchable ball from Baker, representing multiple missed scoring opportunities in Week 2.
Appeared to have a 29-yard touchdown (one knee equals two feet) but refs inexplicably upheld the incomplete pass ruling, costing him a scoring opportunity on what should have been a clear catch.
Had a potential 40-plus yard gain before halftime that was hilariously underthrown by Cooper Rush, indicating route execution and separation despite quarterback delivery failure.
Was behind the Ravens defense for a best-case 65-yard touchdown opportunity but Lamar Jackson couldn't get the ball there; at minimum could have been a 40-plus yard gain, representing significant unrealized downfield production.
Got free late for a potential 40-yard score but C.J. Stroud couldn't capitalize on a rare clean pocket and overthrew his intended target, indicating opportunity generation despite quarterback execution failure.
Got behind the Cowboys secondary for what should have been a 56-yard touchdown but was overthrown by Jayden Daniels, representing a significant missed scoring opportunity despite strong route execution and separation.
Week 2's leader in unrealized air yards; dropped a one-yard touchdown, missed a 23-yard score connection with Antonio Williams, and initially had a 34-yard target ruled a touchdown before refs correctly overturned it. Despite the incompletions and drops, McLaurin generated significant downfield opportunity volume that went unrealized due to execution failures rather than lack of target quality.
Brown appeared to have a 29-yard touchdown (one knee equals two feet) but the refs inexplicably upheld the incomplete pass, losing a scoring opportunity due to an officiating error.
Dotson had a potential 40-plus yard gain before halftime that was hilariously underthrown by Cooper Rush, losing a significant opportunity.
Burks got behind the Cowboys secondary for what should have been a 56-yard TD but Jayden Daniels overthrew him, losing a significant scoring opportunity.
Roush had a 17-yard target that was not officially ruled a drop but appeared to be a catchable pass he should have hauled in, losing potential yardage.
Boston had a 16-yard target that was not officially ruled a drop but appeared to be a catchable pass he should have hauled in, losing potential yardage.
Ayomanor dropped a 5-yard target in Week 2, losing potential yardage.
Jefferson had more than a step on his man for what could have been a best-case 68-yard TD but was held instead, resulting in only five yards and an automatic first down for the Vikings; he also managed to get his fingertips on an open 17-yard TD early with a quicker pass from Carson Wentz but couldn't haul it in.
Sutton accumulated 22 yards of defensive pass interference penalties in Week 2, indicating missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Wilson accumulated 21 total yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate calls, indicating missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Treadwell accumulated 49 total yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate calls, indicating significant missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Golden accumulated 61 total yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate calls, with the defender having a step deep on both fouls, indicating significant missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Egbuka had 70 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and got free for a potential game-winning 20-yard score but Baker Mayfield zipped the fast ball wide of his alleged No. 1 WR, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Wayne had 89 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and had a step for a potential 39-yard TD but C.J. Stroud couldn't quite put it on him under pressure; Wayne was also open again later for a potential 22-yard score but was overthrown, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Moore had 90 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and was also behind the defense for a best-case 65-yard TD but Lamar Jackson couldn't get it there, though it could have been 40-plus yards, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Smith had 92 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Hutchinson had 97 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and also got free late for a potential 40-yard score but C.J. Stroud couldn't make good use of a rare clean pocket and overthrew him, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Johnson had 108 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Mitchell had 116 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and also accumulated 34 yards of defensive pass interference penalties, with one particularly egregious call where he had a step deep and got straight up tackled, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Hurst led all pass-catchers with 136 unrealized air yards in Week 2; he also dropped a 23-yard target and was open deep early after his defender fell down but Baker Mayfield sailed a potential 47-yard walk-in TD, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Johnson was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Raymond was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Thornton was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Washington had 74 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and was also tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Evans was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Waddle was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
White was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Pollard was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Swift was tackled at the 1-yard line and lost a fumble on the play, losing both a potential touchdown and the ball.
Taylor was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Cook was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing a potential scoring chance.
Holani was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing potential scoring chances.
Wilson was tackled at the 1-yard line twice across different drives but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing potential scoring chances.
Dobbins was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing potential scoring chances.
Jeanty was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to score a touchdown on any subsequent opportunity, losing potential scoring chances.
Walker was tackled at the 1-yard line three times on the same drive but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, losing multiple potential touchdown chances.
Black had a 14-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, losing a solid gain.
Tuten had a 14-yard catch nullified by an illegal block above the waist penalty, losing a reception.
Loveland had a 14-yard catch nullified by an illegal shift penalty, losing a reception.
Metcalf had a 15-yard catch nullified by a holding penalty, losing a solid reception.
Hubbard had two runs called back on consecutive plays: an 18-yard run nullified by a hold and a 17-yard run nullified by an illegal shift, losing significant yardage on back-to-back plays.
Gibbs had a 19-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, losing a solid gain.
London had a 25-yard catch nullified by a facemask penalty, losing a significant reception.
Williams had a 25-yard run called back due to a holding penalty, losing a substantial gain.
Brown had a 26-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, losing a significant gain due to offensive line infraction.
Watson benefited from an offsetting penalty situation when Jordan Love's 7-yard rushing TD was called back; Watson caught the resulting 3-yard TD pass on the same drive, capitalizing on the red-zone opportunity.
Love scored a rare 7-yard rushing touchdown that was called back due to an offsetting penalty (Packers hold); the drive ended with a 3-yard TD pass to Christian Watson instead, so the scoring opportunity remained but shifted to a teammate.
Etienne scored a 2-yard rushing touchdown that was called back due to a false start penalty, costing him 6 fantasy points; the Saints subsequently reached the goal line again but relied on alternative scoring methods rather than Etienne punching it in.
McLaurin led all pass-catchers with 146 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity; he also dropped a 1-yard target and was wide-open on a trick play double-pass for a potential 23-yard TD but couldn't adjust to the Antonio Williams pass, suggesting his fantasy output fell well short of his actual involvement and opportunity.
Had a near-miss 17-yard touchdown in Week 2, and also had a 68-yard house call opportunity negated by a holding penalty on the Vikings, leaving Jefferson without two significant scoring chances despite getting open.
Dropped a potential 23-yard score in Week 2, and also had a would-be walk-in 47-yard touchdown early in the game that Baker Mayfield failed to deliver as a catchable ball, leaving Hurst with multiple missed scoring opportunities.
Appeared to have a 29-yard touchdown (one knee equals two feet) but the refs inexplicably upheld the incomplete pass ruling, costing Brown a scoring opportunity on what should have been a clear catch.
Had a potential 40-plus yard gain before halftime but was hilariously underthrown by Cooper Rush, leaving Dotson without a significant scoring opportunity despite getting open.
Was behind the Ravens' defense for a best-case 65-yard touchdown opportunity, but Lamar Jackson couldn't get the ball there; at minimum could have been a 40-plus yard gain if the pass was accurate.
Got behind the Cowboys secondary for what should have been a 56-yard touchdown, but Jayden Daniels overthrew him, leaving Burks without a scoring opportunity despite beating coverage.
Got free late for a potential 40-yard score against the Texans' opponent, but C.J. Stroud couldn't capitalize on a rare clean pocket and overthrew his intended target, leaving Hutchinson without a scoring opportunity despite getting open.
Week 2's leader in unrealized air yards; dropped a one-yard touchdown, missed a 23-yard score connection with Antonio Williams, and had a 34-yard target initially ruled a touchdown before being overturned by refs. Despite high target volume and opportunity, McLaurin failed to convert multiple scoring chances into actual production.
Brown appeared to have a 29-yard touchdown (one knee equals two feet) but the refs inexplicably upheld the incomplete pass, costing him 6 fantasy points.
Dotson had a potential 40-plus yard gain before halftime that was hilariously underthrown by Cooper Rush, indicating a significant missed scoring opportunity.
Burks got behind the Cowboys secondary for what should have been a 56-yard TD but Jayden Daniels overthrew him, indicating a significant missed scoring opportunity.
Egbuka had 70 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and got free for a potential game-winning 20-yard score but Baker Mayfield zipped the fast ball wide of his alleged No. 1 WR, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Roush had a 17-yard target that was not an official drop but could be considered one, representing a missed scoring opportunity.
Boston had a 16-yard target that was not an official drop but could be considered one, representing a missed scoring opportunity.
Ayomanor dropped a 5-yard target in Week 2, representing a missed scoring opportunity.
Jefferson had more than a step on his man for what could have been a best-case 68-yard TD but was held instead; the Vikings gained only five yards and an automatic first down, a trade-off that prevented a major scoring opportunity.
Sutton accumulated 22 yards of defensive pass interference penalties in Week 2, indicating missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Wilson accumulated 21 yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate plays in Week 2, indicating missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Treadwell accumulated 49 yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate plays in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Golden accumulated 61 yards of defensive pass interference penalties on two separate plays in Week 2, with a step deep on both fouls, indicating significant missed opportunity due to defensive penalties.
Wayne had 89 unrealized air yards in Week 2; he had a step for a potential 39-yard TD but C.J. Stroud couldn't quite put it on him under pressure, and was open again later for a potential 22-yard score but was overthrown, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Moore had 90 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and was behind the defense for a best-case 65-yard TD but Lamar Jackson couldn't get it there, though it could have been 40-plus yards, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Smith had 92 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Hutchinson had 97 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and got free late for a potential 40-yard score but C.J. Stroud couldn't make good use of a rare clean pocket and overthrew him, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Johnson had 108 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Mitchell had 116 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and accumulated 34 yards of defensive pass interference penalties, with one particularly egregious call where he had a step deep and got straight up tackled, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Hurst led all pass-catchers with 136 unrealized air yards in Week 2; he also dropped a 23-yard target and was open deep early after his defender fell down but Baker Mayfield sailed a potential 47-yard walk-in TD, indicating significant missed opportunity.
Johnson was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Raymond was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Thornton was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Washington had 74 unrealized air yards in Week 2 and was also tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing significant missed scoring opportunities.
Evans was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Waddle was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
White was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Pollard was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Swift was tackled at the 1-yard line and lost a fumble on the play, representing a missed scoring chance and a turnover.
Taylor was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Cook was tackled at the 1-yard line but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Holani was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Wilson was tackled at the 1-yard line twice across different drives but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing missed scoring chances.
Dobbins was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Jeanty was tackled at the 1-yard line twice on the same drive but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a missed scoring chance.
Walker was tackled at the 1-yard line three times on the same drive but failed to punch the ball into the end zone on any subsequent opportunity, representing a significant missed scoring chance.
Black had a 14-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Tuten had a 14-yard catch nullified by an illegal block above the waist penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Loveland had a 14-yard catch nullified by an illegal shift penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Metcalf had a 15-yard catch nullified by a holding penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Hubbard had two runs nullified by penalties in back-to-back plays: an 18-yard run on a hold and a 17-yard run on an illegal shift, representing consecutive lost big-play opportunities.
Gibbs had a 19-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
London had a 25-yard catch nullified by a facemask penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Williams had a 25-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Brown had a 26-yard run nullified by a holding penalty, representing a lost big-play opportunity.
Watson benefited from a redirected scoring opportunity when Jordan Love's 7-yard rushing TD was called back due to offsetting penalties; Love instead threw a 3-yard TD pass to Watson on the same drive.
Love scored a rare 7-yard rushing TD that was called back due to offsetting penalties (Packers hold); he ultimately finished the drive with a 3-yard TD pass to Christian Watson instead, so the scoring opportunity was redirected rather than lost.
Etienne scored a 2-yard rushing TD that was called back due to a false start penalty, costing him 6 fantasy points; the Saints later reached the goal line again but relied on alternative scoring methods rather than another Etienne carry.
McLaurin led all pass-catchers with 146 unrealized air yards in Week 2, indicating significant missed opportunity; he also dropped a 1-yard target and was wide-open on a trick play double-pass for a potential 23-yard TD but couldn't adjust to the Antonio Williams pass, suggesting his fantasy output fell well short of his actual involvement and opportunity.
Carnell Tate in his first two games: 3 REC + 27 Yards 4 REC + 38 Yards Tennessee spent the No. 4 pick on him and they’re not using him. 😭
#Colts HC Shane Steichen says "they're still gathering information" on Alec Pierce's surgically repaired left heel, which Steichen confirms he did "aggravate." No further info. I asked if Pierce will play against the #Texans and Steichen said, "I don't know right now." [Retweeted](
Gadsden caught a TD pass in Week 2 and should see increased targets after David Njoku (knee) left the game prematurely; he showed breakout possibility as a rookie but has only four targets through two weeks, suggesting more volume is coming.
Waller caught two touchdowns in Week 2 after a Week 1 TD called back due to penalty; however, he has only five targets through two weeks, making him TD-dependent and risky despite last season's 25% TD conversion rate (6 of 24 receptions) with the Dolphins. The Panthers may target him more moving forward.
Coleman, 23, has shown talent despite being an enigma early in his career; he caught six passes for 63 yards in Week 2 with starter DJ Moore (shoulder) potentially missing time, creating opportunity for increased targets and role expansion.
Gadsden caught a TD pass in the Chargers' loss to the Raiders in Week 2.
Waller had a Week 1 TD catch called back due to a penalty; otherwise he would have been rostered in more leagues for Week 2. He then caught a pair of touchdowns in Week 2. Waller boasts only five targets through two weeks, making this dangerous. Last season for the Dolphins, 25% of his 24 receptions were touchdowns. Fantasy managers should be cautious with TD-dependent options, though the Panthers might target Waller more moving forward.
Coleman, 23, has been quite the enigma in his young career, but few debate his talent. Starter DJ Moore (shoulder) might miss some time, and Coleman caught six passes for 63 yards in Week 2. The source recommends giving him a look over teammate Joshua Palmer.
Mitchell's stats resemble those of Dontayvion Wicks in that he isn't his team's top WR option but has reached 60 receiving yards in each of the first two games. The source suggests he might continue his success in Week 3 in Detroit.
Wicks accrued 73 receiving yards in Week 1, then reached 74 yards against the Titans in Week 2, catching five of six targets. The source notes the Eagles' offense remains a work in progress, but Wicks is clearly a key part of it.
Tucker delivered a terrific first half in the Raiders' win over the Chargers, catching four of five targets for 110 yards and a touchdown, finishing with 22.9 fantasy points. However, he scored only 4.7 points in Week 1 against the Dolphins. The source notes it will be tough to rely on Tucker each week, especially considering the team's QB situation, though he did finish last season among the top 40 WR scorers.
Bateman has picked up the slack for an injury-depleted Ravens WR corps with Zay Flowers (hamstring) and Ja'Kobi Lane (wrist) sidelined. Bateman and TE Mark Andrews combined for 13 of Lamar Jackson's 21 completions and 16 targets in a surprising loss to the Saints. If Flowers misses more games, Bateman would be a WR3 option for Week 3 against the Dallas Cowboys.
Wilson relieved injured Jadarian Price (chest) and rushed for 92 yards on 21 carries in Week 2. The source cautions that we cannot presume Price will be out long term nor that the Seahawks will commonly lead by so many points to ride any running back for such volume. However, Wilson is a proven, veteran option.
Neither Spears nor starter Tony Pollard has shined over the first few weeks. Spears broke a 27-yard run against the Eagles but has had only four receptions in two weeks. The source expects more from him moving forward.
Starter Saquon Barkley (shoulder) barely played in the Eagles' last-second win in Nashville, scoring just 3.0 fantasy points on five touches. Bigsby turned his 15 touches into 11.8 points, mostly from a short touchdown run. While he wasn't impressive due to Philadelphia's offensive line being a surprising problem, Bigsby is likely ahead of Will Shipley on the depth chart and becomes a reasonable flex option if Barkley is compromised or misses Week 3.
Kamara missed Week 1 recovering from a knee sprain and scored 7.2 fantasy points in Week 2, mostly from five receptions that totaled only 7 yards. His 14 touches resulted in just 22 yards, leading one to believe Kamara isn't good anymore. However, volume matters, and Kamara saw more touches than starter Travis Etienne Jr. As one of the preeminent pass-receiving RBs of this era, if he stays healthy, you can expect him to remain involved.
Bagent, in his fourth NFL season out of Division II Shepherd University, should start Monday night at home against the Eagles after Caleb Williams suffered a hamstring injury and is week-to-week. The source does not recommend Bagent for Week 3, but if Williams is out long term, superflex investors might have no choice but to make a claim.
Penix has been cleared to make his 2026 debut Thursday at Lambeau Field against the Packers. While the source notes Penix is more skilled than career reserve Cooper Rush, fantasy managers should not trust him in Week 3, despite the Falcons having reasons to trust him.
Mariota is starting for the Commanders after Jayden Daniels injured his non-throwing elbow and will miss significant time. Mariota started eight games last season with occasional but unreliable fantasy success, rushing for at least 40 yards on four occasions. The source explicitly does not recommend streaming Mariota in Week 3 against the Seahawks, noting this is not a great Washington offense.
Ward scored 20.02 fantasy points in a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles and matched his previous career total (over 18 games) with a pair of rushing touchdowns. The source suggests it seems unlikely Ward has a new rushing touchdown skill and will continue finding the end zone on the ground, but he might be someone's streamer in Week 3 against the New York Giants.
Darnold suffered a glute injury in Week 1 but should be ready for Week 3. The Seahawks have an attractive matchup with the Washington Commanders. Darnold finished 14th in QB scoring last season and won a Super Bowl, suggesting he is a capable option.
Murray should be recovered from a concussion for Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The source notes he is no sure thing, especially after veteran Carson Wentz failed to produce even a single touchdown against what everyone said was a terrible Bears defense.
Young has started the season with consecutive three-TD performances, though it remains difficult to determine if this is a true breakout or the result of a friendly early-season schedule (Chicago Bears and Falcons). The source suggests it seems unlikely he is a QB1 option this season, but one can do worse than looking his way for Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns.
Love scored 13.8 fantasy points in Week 2, completing 16 passes for 145 yards with two touchdown passes. The source recommends him for Week 3 because the Packers host the seemingly dreadful Atlanta Falcons, making Love a solid streamer option if you need a QB.
Schultz was the main beneficiary of Nico Collins' hamstring injury, catching 12 passes for 140 yards and 26 fantasy points in Week 2. No other Texans player reached six catches or 40 receiving yards. Schultz ended last season with 82 receptions (tied for third among tight ends) and 10th at the position in fantasy points, suggesting a relatively high floor whether Collins plays or not, though he may lack the upside of other top tight ends.
Colts HC Shane Steichen: WR Alec Pierce. Aggravated left heel injury that required surgery in March. Still gathering info. [Retweeted](
26-year-old tight end via the NFL International Player Pathway (2023) worked out for the Patriots on Monday; 6-foot-6, 250 pounds with background in Australian rules football; spent time with Detroit Lions (2023), Jacksonville Jaguars (2024 injured reserve after waiver with injury designation), and Denver Broncos (2025 practice squad wire-to-wire as exempt player before contract expired in February).
23-year-old rookie tight end went undrafted in 2026 after transferring from Missouri State to Wisconsin, where he caught 30 passes for 398 yards and 4 touchdowns as a senior earning second-team All-Big Ten honors; worked out for the Patriots on Monday; was claimed off waivers by Pittsburgh during training camp before being cut at the end of August; 6-foot-3, 243 pounds.
28-year-old undrafted free agent (2022) from Idaho State worked out for the Patriots on Monday; has 33 career games in the AFC East (Miami Dolphins, New York Giants), 1 start, 12 catches for 107 yards; 6-foot-3, 232 pounds with 251 snaps on offense and 413 snaps on special teams; released from Giants futures contract at the league's cutdown deadline last month.
26-year-old seventh-round pick (No. 246 overall, 2024) from Washington worked out for the Patriots on Monday; has 18 career games with the Buccaneers, 6 receptions for 94 yards and 1 touchdown, plus 97 snaps on offense and 160 snaps on special teams; 6-foot-3, 237 pounds with a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the Combine.
2025 first-round pick (No. 95 overall) suffered a thigh injury in the second quarter of Week 2's 20-3 win over Pittsburgh and did not return, forcing the Patriots to rely on Hunter Henry and Cameron Latu at tight end.
Bhayshul Tuten 40 time 🤝 yards after contact per attempt 4.32
Panthers RB Jonathan Brooks is considered week-to-week while he gets second opinions on his groin injury, per source. Brooks first injured the groin in training camp and then tweaked it again Sunday. [Retweeted](
Mayfield underperformed against Cleveland in Week 2, outplayed by Watson in a direct matchup. The source notes Mayfield hasn't played well since the second half of last season, continuing a trend with constant overthrows and failure to see open receivers. Tampa Bay's decision to sign him to an extension was premature and unearned; the source argues Cleveland was right to move on, as Mayfield is not someone who elevates a team to Super Bowl contention.
Watson delivered one of his best outings as a Brown in Week 2 against Tampa Bay, the last comparable performance dating back to the 2nd half of the 2023 Ravens game. He made necessary plays and used his legs effectively, looking like the player Cleveland traded for despite a low bar set by prior performances. While unlikely to finish the season as starter, this was a strong at-the-office performance after a poor Week 1 and heavy criticism.
The source identifies Judkins as a player performing well for the Browns, grouping him with other emerging offensive contributors. This positive assessment reflects his early-season performance.
The source identifies Concepcion as a player performing well for the Browns, grouping him with other emerging offensive contributors. This positive assessment reflects his early-season performance.
The source identifies Fannin Jr. as a player performing well for the Browns, grouping him with other emerging offensive contributors. This positive assessment reflects his early-season performance.
The source identifies Boston as a player performing well for the Browns, grouping him with other emerging offensive contributors. This positive assessment reflects his early-season performance.
Mayfield underperformed against Tampa Bay, with constant overthrows and failure to see open receivers. The source argues this performance validates Cleveland's decision to move off him, noting Mayfield is not someone who elevates a team to a Super Bowl. His struggles have persisted since the second half of last season, and Deshaun Watson outplayed him on Sunday—a fact that justifies the Browns' roster decision.
Week 2 was one of Watson's best outings as a Brown; the source notes this was his best performance since the 2nd half of the 2023 Ravens game. Watson made necessary plays and used his legs to advantage, looking like the player the Browns traded for. Despite a low bar given his poor play in Cleveland, this performance was needed after a rough Week 1 and negative national coverage.
Was mostly a non-factor against the Bears defense, catching just 3 passes for 55 yards; 30 of those yards came on a single completion during the Vikings' first possession, and all of his catches came in the first half.
Led the team in receiving and was just two yards behind leading rusher Kyle Monangai, but averaged a putrid 2.8 YPC on his rushing attempts. Fumbled on the one-yard line, which was described as a backbreaker; source suggests he should not have been used on goal-line carries when Monangai was performing at 4.7 YPC.
Rushed 10 times for 47 yards (4.7 YPC) and caught 2 passes for 11 yards; was clearly giving Vikings problems at 4.7 yards per carry and ran hard throughout the game. Source notes he should have received more goal-line opportunities instead of D'Andre Swift, who averaged only 2.8 YPC.
Bears starting QB suffered an injury while running for what would have been the go-ahead touchdown; initial prognosis looked worse in immediate moments after the injury, but has improved to 'week to week' status.
Vikings WR was mostly a non-factor against the Bears defense, catching just 3 passes for 55 yards; 30 of those yards came on a single completion during Minnesota's first possession. All of Jefferson's catches came in the first half, indicating the Bears defense shut him down as the game progressed.
Bears RB awarded offensive game ball after rushing 10 times for 47 yards (4.7 YPC) and catching 2 passes for 11 yards. Monangai was clearly giving Minnesota problems at 4.7 yards per carry and ran hard throughout, though he deserved more opportunities in goal-line situations where the Bears were close to the end zone.
Bears RB led team in receiving but averaged a putrid 2.8 yards per carry; fumbled on the one-yard line in a critical red zone situation. Despite poor efficiency, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson continued to feature Swift over Kyle Monangai, who was averaging 4.7 YPC and giving Minnesota problems.
Bears starting QB suffered injury during the game with a 'week to week' prognosis; injury occurred while running for what would have been the go-ahead touchdown. Prognosis improved from initial assessment but Williams is out for the foreseeable future.
Smith completed 27 of 41 passes (65.9%) for 247 yards, 1 TD, and 0 INTs in the Jets' 20-17 OT loss to Green Bay, taking care of the football on a rainy day. However, he was sacked four times against a Micah Parsons-less Packers defense, including twice on the Jets' failed overtime drive, continuing a pattern of taking too many sacks that plagued him in Las Vegas.
Smith managed a respectable 27/41 (65.9%), 247 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT in the Jets' Week 2 OT loss to Green Bay, protecting the football on a rainy day. However, sack issues that plagued him in Las Vegas resurfaced: he was hit four times overall, including twice on the failed overtime drive against a Micah Parsons-less Packers defense, undermining an otherwise clean performance.
Beyond the Box Score - Week 2 Jeremiyah Love, Arizona Cardinals RB Archetype - SPLIT BACKFIELD Rest of season Fantasy Football rank - RB15
Jeremiyah Love - Week 2 - every touch
In Week 2 win over Miami, Purdy went 20-of-22 through the air for 287 yards and two touchdowns; he also had three carries for a team-high 30 yards and played 44 of the 52 offensive snaps, demonstrating efficient passing performance and dual-threat upside.
In Week 2 loss to Cincinnati, Noel did not start but recorded one reception for 31 yards, one rush for 13 yards, fair caught three punts, returned three punts for 32 yards and one kickoff for 31 yards; he played 48 offensive snaps and 12 on special teams.