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FFL: Week 3 | NFL: Week 3

Injury Status: Championship Games

Thu Jan 25 9:02am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer

The good news is the injury reports aren’t too long this week. Now there are a few key players hurting, though, which could impact the game. The Chiefs have some injuries along the offensive line and the 49ers could be without one of their best offensive players. So it isn’t all great when it comes to injuries. There are a few to watch.

Here is the latest. . . .

Mark Andrews, TE, Ravens. It is looking more and more like Andrews will make his return this week. He is practicing in full and seems closer to full strength than last week. He has yet to be activated from Injured Reserve but look for that to happen before the week is out. Andrews still might not play his usual role in the game but look for him to be out there and helping the team.

Isiah Pacheco, RB, Chiefs. Pacheco has a toe injury and is out of practice to start the week. He is resting more than anything, though, and it seems the toe injury isn’t too serious. It would be a shock if Pacheco is not active for the big game this week. He should be ready to go.

Marlon Humphrey, CB, Ravens. Humphrey has not played since Week 17 because of a calf strain. He is back at practice this week, though, and trending towards being ready for the game. It would be a big boost to the secondary to have Humphrey back in the lineup for the Ravens.

Skyy Moore, WR, Chiefs. Moore seemed finally close to returning last week, returning to some practice. But he seemed to have a setback late last week with the knee injury. He missed Friday’s practice and has not practiced since. This is not a good sign for a return for Moore. He should miss another week of action.

Deebo Samuel, WR, 49ers. Samuel has the big injury to watch this week. He was knocked from last week’s game because of a shoulder injury. He is out of practice to start this week. He is apparently not dealing with a significant injury but it is serious enough that it could sideline him this week. He is truly up in the air to play. It might come down to a game-time decision for Samuel.

Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.

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Player Notes
Cooper Kupp Sep 23 6:10pm ET
Cooper Kupp

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said that wide receiver Cooper Kupp (ankle) will not make it back in time for the Week 4 contest this Sunday at Soldier Field against the Chicago Bears. Kupp injured his ankle in the Week 2 loss against the Arizona Cardinals and didn't play in the Week 3 victory over the division-rival San Francisco 49ers. The 31-year-old avoided a stint on Injured Reserve, unlike teammate Puka Nacua (knee), but Kupp will miss his second straight game this weekend. Fantasy managers and the Rams can only hope that he has a shot to suit up in Week 5 against the Green Bay Packers, but with LA's bye coming in Week 6, it's possible we don't see him again until Week 7 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Kupp was looking more like his All-Pro self in 2021 before hurting his ankle, so hopefully he can return sooner than later. Tutu Atwell led LA with four catches and 93 yards in the Week 3 win.

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Sam Darnold Sep 23 6:10pm ET
Sam Darnold

The Minnesota Vikings announced on Monday that quarterback Sam Darnold (knee) suffered a left-knee bruise in the Week 3 win over the Houston Texans, but he's not expected to miss any time. Don't be surprised to see Darnold on the team's Week 4 injury report, but it sounds as though he's fully expected to play this Sunday when the team travels to Lambeau Field to face the division-rival Green Bay Packers. The 27-year-old came out for a play in the third quarter of the 34-7 blowout win over Houston. The former first-round pick heads into Week 4 with a league-leading eight touchdown passes while completing 67.9% of his pass attempts for 657 yards in three games despite not having receiver Jordan Addison (ankle) for two games. Going into this weekend's game on the road, Darnold should be considered a high-end QB2 in fantasy.

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Darnell Mooney Sep 23 3:10pm ET
Darnell Mooney

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney caught all eight of his targets for 66 yards in the team's 22-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Mooney led the team in catches on Sunday night, recording two more than Drake London on one fewer target and gaining one fewer yard. The 26-year-old kicked off the game's opening drive with back-to-back receptions for 35 yards on Atlanta's first two plays from scrimmage. He hauled in another short pass late in the first quarter before being held in check for the remainder of the first half. It was a valuable outing for the former Bear, though it's unlikely he was started in many fantasy leagues. He's the clear No. 2 option at wide receiver for the Falcons despite playing one fewer snap than Ray-Ray McCloud III's 58 in Week 3, and holds some WR3 value with upside while getting consistent targets. With Atlanta potentially down two offensive linemen, they may increase their pass rate when the team hosts their rival New Orleans Saints at home in a tough Week 4 matchup.

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Bijan Robinson Sep 23 2:50pm ET
Bijan Robinson

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson took 16 carries for 31 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 22-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Additionally, he reeled in both of his targets for 21 yards through the air. It was tough sledding for the second-year back on a day when the Falcons lost two starting offensive linemen. Center Drew Dalman (ankle) and right tackle Kaleb McGary (knee) were both ruled out in this one after suffering injuries in the first half. Robinson salvaged his fantasy day when he converted a one-yard score with under six minutes left in the first half. The former Longhorn began the day on a solid note, with three of his first four carries going for five or more yards. However, many of his remaining carries were stonewalled by a Chiefs' D that has fared better against rushing attacks than they have in the passing game in 2024. He was most notably stuffed on 4th-and-inches with Atlanta attempting to take the lead in the waning seconds of regulation. Robinson will likely retain his weekly RB1 status, but the injuries to the offensive line are slightly concerning regarding his rushing output. The Falcons will host a tough Saints team at home in Week 4 as the team will look to even up their record at 2-2.

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Drake London Sep 23 2:40pm ET
Drake London

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London hauled in 6-of-9 targets for 67 yards and a touchdown in the team's 22-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The USC product started the game hot, catching his touchdown to cap off Atlanta's opening drive of the game. It was a 14-yard pass to a wide-open London in the corner of the end zone on a slick play design that ultimately broke Kansas City's coverage. However, the third-year wideout was held to just two receptions and 24 yards through the first three quarters. He would eventually save his fantasy day, racking up another four catches in the fourth quarter with the Falcons playing from behind. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney was the only pass-catcher to outpace him in receptions (8). The former Trojan now has back-to-back games with six receptions and should continue to provide solid fantasy value with Atlanta's offense rounding into form. He'll have a difficult matchup in Week 4 when the Falcons host their division-rival Saints at home.

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Kirk Cousins Sep 23 2:20pm ET
Kirk Cousins

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins completed 20-of-29 attempts for 230 yards in Sunday night's 22-17 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. He tossed one touchdown and interception and lost one yard on his lone rush attempt. Cousins and the Falcons' offense battled throughout the contest to try and make it a game, but they came up just short. Atlanta was down five with just over four minutes left to go in regulation when Cousins targeted tight end Kyle Pitts in the end zone on 3rd-and-5 deep inside Chiefs territory. Pitts had KC safety Bryan Cook draped all over him, and there appeared to be heavy contact on the play, although no flag had been called. Atlanta would turn it over on downs; however, they did have another chance inside the Chiefs' 20-yard-line with under a minute to go but were stuffed for a loss on 4th-and-inches. That would eventually ice the game for the reigning Super Bowl champs. There will be better days ahead for the long-time Viking. He and the Falcons will look to get back in the win column in Week 4 when the team hosts a tough New Orleans Saints squad.

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Myles Garrett Sep 23 1:40pm ET
Myles Garrett

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said that All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett's foot injury is day-to-day, while offensive guard Wyatt Teller (knee) could land on Injured Reserve after suffering a knee injury in the Week 3 loss to the New York Giants. Garrett missed practice time last week but didn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's contest against the Giants before suffering multiple injuries to his foot/leg. The 28-year-old had an MRI exam on Monday, which apparently didn't show anything significant enough to rule him out for Week 4 against the Las Vegas Raiders. He played a season-low 59% of the defensive snaps in Week 3 and could be limited moving forward if he continues to play through his injuries, making him more boom/bust in IDP fantasy lineups. After finishing with sacks in each of the first two games, Garrett had just one solo tackle against the G-Men.

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Tim Boyle Sep 23 1:40pm ET
Tim Boyle

Tennessee Titans cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (groin) suffered a groin injury in the Week 3 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday that could land him on Injured Reserve. If Awuzie is forced to IR, it would cost him at least the next four games. The Titans have their bye in Week 5, so the earliest Awuzie could return if they place him on IR this week would be for a Week 9 contest against the New England Patriots. The 29-year-old is in his first season with Tennessee and has recorded four tackles (three solo) in his first three games in 2024. The 0-3 Titans are going to be a bit more vulnerable in their secondary with Awuzie injured as they prepare for a Week 4 matchup on the road at Hard Rock Stadium against the Miami Dolphins, who might be forced to start third-string quarterback Tim Boyle. Expect Jarvis Brownlee and Darrell Baker to get more opportunities with Awuzie set to miss time.

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Bucky Irving Sep 23 1:30pm ET
Bucky Irving

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said that rookie running back Bucky Irving has earned more offensive snaps going forward. Although primary back Rachaad White saw 74% of the offensive snaps to Irving's 32% in the Week 3 loss to the Denver Broncos, Irving was the better back, rushing nine times 70 yards while catching all three of his targets for 14 yards. Meanwhile, White had only six carries for a measly 17 yards on the ground. The 22-year-old Irving broke off a big 32-yard chunk gain on the ground and looked much more elusive and quick with the ball in his hands than White did. It's bad news for White's fantasy managers going forward, although it would be wise to try and pick Irving up off the waiver wire this week, as he could take over lead-back duties sooner than later. Irving is currently rostered in 35% of Yahoo fantasy leagues.

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Anthony Richardson Sep 23 1:30pm ET
Anthony Richardson

On Sunday, the Chicago Bears' defense and special teams performed well, keeping the team competitive despite a tough matchup. The Bears intercepted Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson twice, both on passes thrown directly to their defenders. While these interceptions were beneficial, the pass defense struggled at times, allowing several big plays, including a 44-yard completion to Alec Pierce over cornerback Jaylon Johnson. Overall, the Bears limited Richardson to 167 yards with a 50 percent completion rate, but the explosive plays they allowed led to touchdown runs by Jonathan Taylor and Trey Sermon. Taylor, known for his patience as he waits behind the line before bursting through openings, proved challenging to contain. Although the Bears made him earn his yards, they still allowed him to rack up 110 yards at an average of 4.8 yards per carry, including a 29-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. The Bears did manage to keep Richardson in check on the ground, limiting him to just 24 yards on eight carries, but Taylor's contributions were enough to secure a win for Indianapolis. The Bears will face another tough matchup next week against the Los Angeles Rams, but they are a must start.

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David Njoku Sep 23 1:20pm ET
David Njoku

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said "we'll see" whether tight end David Njoku (ankle) will be available to play in a Week 4 tilt against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. The Browns and fantasy managers will have a better idea of Njoku's status when they resume practicing on Wednesday. Njoku suffered a high-ankle sprain in the Week 1 loss to the Dallas Cowboys and has missed the last two games as a result. With Njoku sidelined the last two games, Jordan Akins has stepped in as the primary pass-catching TE but has gone for just five receptions on eight targets for 39 yards and no touchdowns. Quarterback Deshaun Watson relied heavily on receiver Amari Cooper in the Week 3 loss to the New York Giants, targeting him 12 times, leading to seven catches, 86 yards and two touchdowns. Njoku will be in play as a low-end TE1 option for fantasy managers if he returns to play in Week 4.

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Cole Kmet Sep 23 1:20pm ET
Cole Kmet

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet finally had the breakout game many had anticipated in the 2024 season. After totaling just five receptions for 31 yards in the first two games, Kmet became one of Caleb Williams' primary targets in Week 3. He matched his career high with ten receptions for 97 yards and scored a touchdown that cut Chicago's deficit to one score, giving them a chance to win, though the offense didn't get the ball back in time. Kmet's usage has dramatically increased over the past two games, significantly impacting the passing game. With Keenan Allen (heel) out, seeing Kmet step up and receive more targets was encouraging. While it's unlikely the Bears will continue to throw the ball 50 times per game, it's promising to see Kmet integrated into the game plan. He will look to build on this performance in Week 4 against a Rams team that recently allowed Jauan Jennings to have a career performance.

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Sam LaPorta Sep 23 1:10pm ET
Sam LaPorta

Tests on Monday morning confirmed that Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (ankle) suffered a low-ankle sprain in the Week 3 win over the Arizona Cardinals, according to a source. It's relative good news for the Lions' star tight end, although it's not guaranteed that he'll be able to play in Week 4 versus the visiting Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football. We'll have a better idea of LaPorta's status once the Lions resume practicing again on Thursday, but if LaPorta is up in the air to play on Monday, it will make fantasy managers' decisions much more difficult this week. After being the top fantasy TE in his rookie season in 2023, the 23-year-old has disappointed through three weeks in Year 2, catching eight of 10 targets for 94 yards and no scores. Brock Wright had four catches for 34 yards on Sunday and would have an expanded role in Week 4 against Seattle if LaPorta is limited or out.

From RotoBaller

Justin Herbert Sep 23 1:10pm ET
Justin Herbert

X-rays came back negative on Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle), who aggravated his right high-ankle sprain and left Sunday's Week 3 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers early, according to a source. Herbert will continue to be monitored throughout the week leading up to the Week 4 divisional showdown versus the Kansas City Chiefs. Before Taylor Heinicke replaced him, Herbert went 12-for-18 for 125 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions while taking two sacks in the 20-10 loss. Herbert was seen in a walking boot after the game, so his status for Week 4 is murky, at best. Even if the 26-year-old toughs it out and plays against the Chiefs, he won't be a recommended starter in single-QB leagues. Heinicke completed both of his pass attempts for 24 yards but also took three sacks in his first action with the Bolts. Expect LA to go with a run-heavy game script in Week 4 if Herbert is unavailable.

From RotoBaller

D.J. Moore Sep 23 12:20pm ET
D.J. Moore

Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore had a solid outing in Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts. He made several impressive plays but came close to an even bigger performance. Moore finished with eight receptions for 78 yards, including a Hail Mary attempt that fell just one yard short of a touchdown. He ranked third on the team in both receiving yards and targets, trailing Rome Odunze and Cole Kmet, as Caleb Williams threw for 363 yards. The Bears also attempted to involve Moore in the rushing game against the Colts' weak defense, but his carry resulted in a loss. With Keenan Allen (heel) sidelined, seeing Moore receive more targets was encouraging. He has emerged as Williams' primary read, accumulating 28 targets over three games, and this volume could translate into increased production as the rookie quarterback settles in. Moore will look to build on this performance in Week 4 against a Rams team that recently allowed Jauan Jennings to shine.

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Rome Odunze Sep 23 12:20pm ET
Rome Odunze

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze had a standout performance in Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts. He recorded six receptions for 112 yards and scored his first touchdown. While tight end Cole Kmet (10 catches) and receiver DJ Moore (8 catches) had more receptions, Odunze still topped the team in receiving yards. His 11 targets were more than he received in the first two games combined, highlighting his growing role in the Bears' offense. Against the Colts, Odunze demonstrated the skills that made him a top-10 draft pick, running precise routes, showcasing impressive speed, and displaying excellent ball-tracking ability. The Bears also attempted to utilize him in the rushing game against the Colts' weak defense, but his rushing attempt gained minimal yards. With Keenan Allen (heel) sidelined, it was encouraging to see Odunze step up. He will aim to build on this performance in Week 4 against a Rams team that recently allowed Jauan Jennings to look like prime Jerry Rice.

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Patrick Mahomes Sep 23 12:13pm ET
Patrick Mahomes

Dynasty | Chefs wide receiver Rashee Rice had 12 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs win against Atlanta. Dynasty Analysis: And the beat goes on. At this point, Rice's three-game total of 288 receiving yards is good for second in the NFL and his targets rank third. In other words, Rice has taken over Travis Kelce's spot as the top weapon for Patrick Mahomes and has made every other receiver a secondary option. While there are concerns about a possible suspension, it's not going to stop Rice's ascension in dynasty rankings.

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Samaje Perine Sep 23 12:13pm ET
Samaje Perine

Dynasty | Chiefs running back Carson Steele had 72 rushing yards, one catch, and two receiving yards in a win against Atlanta. Dynasty Analysis: Steele's audition as the new starter for the Chiefs went just fine as he churned out some tough yards all night. Even better, he out-touched Samaje Perine 18-9. While the lack of a touchdown capped his fantasy night, Steele did nothing to make Kansas City believe he couldn't at least hold the fort for a bit. The key to Steele's short-term value is going to hinge on what the Chiefs decide to do with the newly signed Kareem Hunt. Stay tuned.

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Rashee Rice Sep 23 12:13pm ET
Rashee Rice

Dynasty | Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy had two catches for 17 yards in the Chiefs win against the Falcons. Dynasty Analysis: He added 13 rushing yards on three carries. After his two-touchdown debut, Worthy now has two straight weeks with exactly two catches for 17 yards, each of them more disappointing than the last. At this point, the Chiefs offense is running through Rashee Rice and Worthy is being used as a situational deep threat or a running option. There will be better days ahead, but it really is looking like more of a development year for Worthy than anything else.

From Dynasty League Fantasy

Bryce Young Sep 23 12:10pm ET
Bryce Young

The Las Vegas Raiders DST was a massive bust for fantasy managers in the Week 3 36-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers. Going up against a seemingly weak Panthers offense in disarray after the benching of quarterback Bryce Young, they were a very popular streamer heading into Week 3. Still, they were embarrassed by Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton, who threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The Red Rifle diced up the silver and black brigade, ripping off a nine-play, 70-yard drive and never looking back. The Raiders allowed the first game by a quarterback of 300+ passing yards and three or more TDs to Dalton. The entire Raiders squad has been marked by inconsistency this season, and it would not be easy to know when to start them in fantasy. The Raiders DST will look to rebound against the Cleveland Browns in Week 4.

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