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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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Bender's Starts/Sits: Week 3

Player Notes
Avonte Maddox Sep 22 10:50am ET
Avonte Maddox

Philadelphia Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson (foot) is currently listed as questionable ahead of the Week 3 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Gardner-Johnson was unable to practice on Thursday or Friday, which puts him in a bad spot ahead of Sunday's game. Despite that, the Eagles are hopeful that Gardner-Johnson will play, but they will have to wait until warmups. The loss of Gardner-Johnson would likely mean Avonte Maddox starts at safety. The absence of Gardner-Johnson would be a downgrade for this secondary and defensive unit as a whole.

From RotoBaller

Miles Sanders Sep 22 10:40am ET
Miles Sanders

Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders has been unable to get much going on the ground this season. He has rushed for 42 yards and hauled in three receptions for five yards through two games. The 27-year-old remains the primary backup to Chuba Hubbard. The Panthers figure to continue splitting up the workload, but Hubbard has been the much more effective back between the two. The hope is that the Panthers offense can finally get something going against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3. They've scored only 13 points, but a change at quarterback could help them. Possibly, Sanders gets more involved with Andy Dalton under center, but fantasy managers shouldn't take that risk. Sanders remains an avoidable option until he proves otherwise.

From RotoBaller

Easton Stick Sep 22 10:30am ET
Easton Stick

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Easton Stick could be asked to start under center during Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team is preparing to start Justin Herbert (ankle), but they haven't made a final decision. If Herbert sits, the Chargers plan to use some strategy that involves both Stick and veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke. This sounds like a disaster waiting to happen against a tough Steelers defense. Stick threw for 1,129 passing yards with three touchdowns and one interception in five games (four starts) with the Chargers last season. The former fifth-round pick seems like a capable backup, but is not a recommended fantasy option if Herbert is unable to play.

From RotoBaller

Emanuel Wilson Sep 22 10:20am ET
Emanuel Wilson

Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson took a backseat last week with rookie MarShawn Lloyd (ankle) getting into the mix. Wilson only saw five carries for nine yards in the win over the Indianapolis Colts. However, he figures to take a slightly larger workload with Lloyd headed to the injured reserve. Wilson put together a decent performance during the season opener, but there won't be a significant workload for him with Josh Jacobs healthy. That being said, Wilson is worth stashing in deep leagues or dynasty formats, but isn't a reliable starting option for Week 3.

From RotoBaller

Samaje Perine Sep 22 10:10am ET
Samaje Perine

Kansas City Chiefs running back Samaje Perine is likely to see an increased workload during the Week 3 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The Chiefs are expected to go with a running back by committee approach with Isiah Pacheco (leg) sidelined. The assumption is that rookie Carson Steele is going to be the primary back, but Perine should mixed in as well. The veteran back will probably take over the receiving duties in the backfield, which could be good news for fantasy managers in PPR formats. However, it's unknown exactly how the Chiefs plan to split up the workload on Sunday. That being said, Perine shouldn't be trusted as anything more than a low-end flex option in PPR formats.

From RotoBaller

Justin Jefferson Sep 22 10:00am ET
Justin Jefferson

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (quad) was removed from the injury report on Friday. The superstar wideout was dealing with a quad issue, but appears to be fine after getting in a full practice session on Friday. It sounds like Jefferson is a full-go for Sunday and won't have any lingering effects from his quad issue. That is great news for fantasy managers after Jefferson went down mid-way through Week 2. Fantasy managers should feel confident with Jefferson as a WR1 for Week 3 against the Houston Texans.

From RotoBaller

Jordan Whittington Sep 22 9:50am ET
Jordan Whittington

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Jordan Whittington is expected to see more involvement during Sunday's Week 3 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The sixth-round rookie opened the season as depth, but now could be asked to possibly start. The Rams are without Puka Nacua (knee) and Cooper Kupp (ankle) for multiple weeks, which is a huge blow. That means, Demarcus Robinson and Tyler Johnson figure to be the primary passing options. Tutu Atwell and Whittington could split up the third wideout role. Whittington hauled in both his targets for 22 yards last week. He's too risky to start in Week 3, but is worth stashing in deep leagues and dynasty formats.

From RotoBaller

Christian Wilkins Sep 22 9:40am ET
Christian Wilkins

Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (knee) is expected to play during Sunday's Week 3 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Wilkins has been limited in practice all week due to a knee issue he picked up last week. The former first-round pick signed a hefty contract with the Raiders over the offseason. Wilkins and Maxx Crosby (ankle) are expected to dominate this defensive line. Wilkins is still seeking his first sack as a Raider, but has nine tackles through the first two games. The absence of either Wilkins or Crosby would be a significant blow to this d-line.

From RotoBaller

Brian Burns Sep 22 8:40am ET
Brian Burns

New York Giants defensive end Brian Burns (groin) is expected to play in Week 3 versus the Cleveland Browns. He had been listed as questionable after the Giants added him to their injury report late in the week. Nevertheless, he's going to suit up against the Deshaun Watson-led Browns on Sunday. Burns has seven tackles through two games but is still looking for his first sack as a member of the Giants.

From RotoBaller

Tyjae Spears Sep 22 8:30am ET
Tyjae Spears

Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) is expected to play in Week 3 versus the Green Bay Packers, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Spears had been listed as questionable but was trending in the right direction heading into the weekend. Tony Pollard remains the top running back in this Tennessee offense, but Spears has still been able to carve out a role this year. Through two games, he has 10 carries for 41 yards on the ground, plus six catches for another 22 yards through the air. He ranks as the overall RB42 in fantasy football so far.

From RotoBaller

Bryce Young Sep 22 8:30am ET
Bryce Young

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young will likely be re-installed as the team's starter later this season, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The former No. 1 pick was benched earlier this week, but the team views the decision "as a break or timeout more than anything." Carolina reportedly still has confidence in Young, who has completed 55.3 percent of his passes for 245 yards, zero passing touchdowns, and three interceptions so far. He does also have 18 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown to his name. Fantasy managers should hold Young in dynasty leagues but can drop him in single-QB redraft formats.

From RotoBaller

Greg Dortch Sep 22 8:20am ET
Greg Dortch

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Greg Dortch (hamstring) is expected to be active for Week 3 versus the Detroit Lions, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Dortch caught six of eight targets back in Week 1 but commanded just two targets on a 35 percent snap share last weekend. He is Arizona's No. 3 wide receiver behind Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, and he also has to compete with tight end Trey McBride and running back James Conner. Dortch can be left on waivers in most fantasy leagues this week.

From RotoBaller

Justin Herbert Sep 22 8:20am ET
Justin Herbert

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) is preparing as though he will play in Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. However, Herbert is still viewed as a game-time decision as the Chargers want to evaluate him further during pregame warmups. The former first-round pick has completed 31 of 46 passes for 274 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception this year. He also has 24 rushing yards and a lost fumble. Herbert ranks as a mid-to-low fantasy QB1 if he suits up. In the event that his high-ankle sprain is too much to play through, the Chargers would turn to either Easton Stick or Taylor Heinicke.

From RotoBaller

Nick Bosa Sep 22 8:10am ET
Nick Bosa

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (rib) is expected to be active for Week 3 versus the Los Angeles Rams. He had been listed as questionable entering the weekend. Having Bosa available is terrific news for the 49ers, who will be shorthanded at other positions on the field. Offensively, George Kittle (hamstring) is doubtful while Deebo Samuel Sr. (calf) has been ruled out. Bosa's presence on defense will give the 49ers an extra boost as they look to overcome their numerous injuries in this divisional game. He has seven tackles and two sacks so far this season.

From RotoBaller

Geno Smith Sep 22 1:10am ET
Geno Smith

Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle George Fant (knee) was placed on injured reserve Saturday ahead of the team's Week 3 home matchup against the Miami Dolphins. In a corresponding move, the Seahawks signed tackle McClendon Curtis off their practice squad and to the active roster. Fant suffered a knee injury in Seattle's victory over the Denver Broncos back in Week 1. Last Sunday, he did not suit up for the matchup against the New England Patriots and was a limited participant in all three Seahawks practices this week. Now, he'll miss the next four games, with the team's Week 7 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons as his earliest possible return date. Stone Forsythe will hold down the starting RT job protecting quarterback Geno Smith's front side in his absence. Despite the minimal sample of 13 snaps, Fant is Seattle's second-highest-rated offensive lineman per PFF (65.8).

From RotoBaller

Michael Pittman Jr. Sep 22 1:00am ET
Michael Pittman Jr.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (back, calf) is expected to play in Sunday's game against the Bears. The wideout didn't practice on Friday and currently holds a questionable tag. However, all signs are pointing toward his availability for Week 3. Pittman has gotten off to a slow start this season, catching seven of his 15 targets for 52 yards in the Colts' first two contests. Without question, his ceiling is higher than most. Still, his outlook versus Chicago isn't as promising, considering the injuries could limit his abilities on the field. Although fantasy managers can keep Pittman in the starting lineup, nobody can blame anyone for playing it safe by keeping him on the bench.

From RotoBaller

Bryce Young Sep 22 12:50am ET
Bryce Young

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, several teams around the National Football League have "expressed an interest" in acquiring Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. However, head coach Dave Canales has stated the team doesn't have plans to trade him. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick didn't have a memorable rookie season. Unfortunately, Young's struggles have carried into the 2024-25 campaign, with the signal-caller throwing three picks and completing 55.4% of his attempts in the Panthers' first two games. As a result, he won't be under center when Carolina meets the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3, with veteran Andy Dalton taking over. At any rate, there are questions concerning Young's potential at the professional level. But now isn't the time for dynasty managers to sell low, especially since Young has time to turn things around.

From RotoBaller

Jordan Love Sep 22 12:30am ET
Jordan Love

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (knee) isn't expected to play against the Titans. The signal-caller is trending in the right direction, with the team planning for his return for the Week 4 matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. As a result, Malik Willis is anticipated to remain under center versus his former team. Willis got the start for the clash with the Indianapolis Colts. He finished that one by throwing for 122 yards and a touchdown off 12-for-14 passing, adding six carries for 41 yards. While the 2022 No. 86 overall pick looked decent in Week 2, he's not someone fantasy managers can depend on to fill the void left by Love's absence.

From RotoBaller

Ray-Ray McCloud Sep 21 10:20pm ET
Ray-Ray McCloud

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III will look to continue his modest production when the team squares off against the Kansas City Chiefs in a Sunday night home tilt. The sixth-year veteran has been more involved in Atlanta's offense than initially anticipated in 2024. He's recorded the third-most snaps of any Falcons wideout (91) -- behind Drake London and Darnell Mooney -- and leads all Atlanta pass-catchers with 12 targets. McCloud is also just nine yards behind Mooney in receiving yardage for the team lead (94). The 27-year-old is unlikely to continue leading the team in such categories as the season churns on. However, he should remain involved and will become a more intriguing option in deeper leagues as Kirk Cousins continues to shake off the rust and recovers from his 2023 Achilles injury. The Falcons will have their work cut out for them this week against a tough Chiefs defense, but McCloud looks like a decent WR4 for now.

From RotoBaller

Kameron Johnson Sep 21 10:00pm ET
Kameron Johnson

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Kameron Johnson (ankle) has officially been ruled out for Sunday's Week 3 home matchup against the Denver Broncos. Johnson started the week with a limited practice on Wednesday before downgrading to a DNP on Thursday and Friday. In anticipation of his absence, Tampa Bay has elevated wide receiver Sterling Shepherd off its practice squad for depth at the position. The 22-year-old rookie has been a distant option for the Bucs so far in 2024, recording the fewest snaps of all wideouts (11) and failing to earn a single target in the passing game. His lone touch on the year was a carry he advanced for no gain. Chris Godwin and Mike Evans will remain the de facto top two targets for Baker Mayfield, with Jalen McMillan and Trey Palmer picking up the scraps in a smash spot for the team this weekend.

From RotoBaller