Thu Nov 27 9:52am ET
Field Level Media
The Seattle Seahawks will be facing what amounts to a rookie quarterback when they play host to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
Minnesota is all too familiar with the quarterback at the controls of the Seahawks' offense.
J.J. McCarthy, a first-round pick in 2024 who missed all of last season after surgery for a torn meniscus on his knee and several weeks earlier in this campaign with a high ankle sprain, was placed in the concussion protocol following last Sunday's 23-6 loss at Green Bay.
With veteran backup Carson Wentz on injured reserve after shoulder surgery, that means the Vikings (4-7) might have to start undrafted rookie Max Brosmer.
McCarthy was cleared to take part in individual drills in midweek practices but not work out with the full team, Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said.
"As far as a zero hour, I don't necessarily know if we're looking at it like that," O'Connell said. "But you do want to take into account what has (McCarthy's) preparation been like, what has the practice week been like with what he's able to do, while also knowing that ultimately this is not a hand or an ankle or anything like that. We're talking about his head."
Brosmer has attempted eight NFL passes since completing his collegiate career at Minnesota after being a graduate transfer from New Hampshire of the Football Championship Subdivision.
"We have nothing but confidence in him and what he can do as a player," Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson said, "and it'll be a good opportunity for all of us."
Brosmer might be playing behind a rag-tag offensive line. The Vikings had their full complement of starters for the first time all season at Green Bay before left tackle Christian Darrisaw (foot) and left guard Donovan Jackson (ankle) left with injuries. Darrisaw is listed as questionable on Friday's injury report, while Jackson has been ruled out.
The Seahawks (8-3) are coming off a 30-24 victory at Tennessee in which they built a 20-point lead in the third quarter and coasted from there.
Sam Darnold, who signed with the Seahawks in the offseason after resurrecting his career in Minnesota last year, completed 16 of 26 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns.
Both TDs went to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had eight catches for a season-high 167 yards.
Smith-Njibga leads the NFL in receiving yards with 1,313 and already has eclipsed the franchise record. With six games remaining, he could become the NFL's first 2,000-yard receiver.
"It means a lot," Smith-Njigba said of the team record. "This is a great organization, and great receivers have come through here. Honestly, I look at it as a team award, because, without Sam (Darnold), without the protection, without (fellow wideouts) Sheed (Rashid Shaheed) and Coop (Cooper Kupp), this doesn't happen."
Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV, who missed last week's game with a knee injury, was a full participant in practice this week, while running back George Holani (hamstring), linebacker Uchenna Nwosu (ankle) and safety Ty Okada (oblique) sat out. Holani has been ruled out, Okada questionable, while Jones and Nwosu have no injury designations on the final report.
With Jones, the Seahawks' defensive play-caller, sidelined, Patrick O'Connell was promoted from the practice squad and made a career-high nine tackles with a sack.
"Whoever it is, whatever number it is, whatever guy it is, when they are being called on and it's their time to go, they've been ready," Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas said. "So, credit to the guys that we have and the leadership really to get everybody ready to go for their moment."
Starts, Sits, Sleepers: Week 14
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson got a late start to the 2025 season following a torn ACL that he suffered in the regular-season finale last year. Watson made his debut in the Week 8 win over the Green Bay Packers and caught all four of his targets for a season-high 85 yards. It was a statement that the 26-year-old was back and immediately on the fantasy football radar. He had exactly four targets in each of the next two games, too, before slowly seeing his role grow in the last three contests. Watson has 13 receptions on 22 targets for 175 yards and three TDs in the last three games, culminating in a four-catch, 80-yard, one-TD performance in the Thanksgiving Day win over the Lions last Thursday. He had a season-high 10 targets in that one and is the WR10 in half-PPR scoring over the last three weeks. Jayden Reed's (foot, shoulder) impending return from IR could make life more difficult for Watson the rest of the way, but heading into a Week 14 divisional game against the Bears, Watson has clear WR2 upside for his big-play ability (17.3 yards per catch).
From RotoBaller
Per Pewter Report, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (neck) was spotted at practice for a second straight day, although in what capacity he participated had not been divulged. McMillan and veteran Mike Evans (clavicle) each came back from their respective injuries to log a limited practice on Wednesday. While there's likely still a few boxes to be checked regarding their return to in-game action, it's excellent news for the Buccaneers, as their offense is working back to full health. In a loaded WR corps, it's difficult to predict what kind of role McMillan will assume upon his activation. That said, he was productive down the stretch of his rookie season, notching four straight five-catch games, with greater than 50 receiving yards in each. He's on the radar in deep leagues for the time being.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (hand) had surgery on Monday for a metacarpal fracture in his left (non-throwing) hand, in which a plate and screws were put in to stabilize the fracture. Herbert did not practice on Wednesday, but he's expected to be on the field either Thursday or Friday, and he told reporters that he plans to play in Week 14 against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night. Head coach Jim Harbaugh said he's optimistic that Herbert will be available this week. Ultimately, the 27-year-old's status will depend on how much swelling there is in his surgically repaired hand. If Herbert does play, he might not take any snaps under center at all, and he's likely to play with a protective glove on. Fantasy managers will have a better idea of Herbert's status by Saturday. If he plays, Herbert will be more of a high-end QB2 in fantasy against an Eagles defense that has allowed only 12 passing TDs this year, which is tied for second-fewest in the NFL.
From RotoBaller
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (clavicle) was seen practicing with the team on Thursday, according to Pewter Report. His status during the session has not yet been detailed. The veteran made his way back to the practice field this week as Tampa Bay gears up for a home clash with the New Orleans Saints this Sunday. Evans hasn't suited up for in-game action since sustaining a fracture in his clavicle back in Week 7, although it appears he's inching closer toward being activated from IR. While the capacity in which he practiced hadn't been divulged, it's encouraging to see him out there for a second straight day. If the 32-year-old is unable to suit up for Week 14's outing with New Orleans, teammates Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., and Tez Johnson would continue operating in 11 personnel, with Sterling Shepard mixing in as the fourth option.
From RotoBaller
With Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed (foot, shoulder) getting closer to a return from injury, now is an excellent time for fantasy managers to stash the third-year pro if they have room on the bottom of their benches. Reed fractured his clavicle in the early portion of the season and has missed the ensuing ten games while he recovers from surgery. The 25-year-old has been a practice participant for nearly two weeks now, although he's yet to log anything more than a limited session. There will likely be a significant ramp-up period; however, Reed has been a touchdown machine over the previous two seasons and has shown himself to be efficient on limited touches. Even with a dearth of talent in the team's WR room, Reed is worthy of consideration if available, as he could slot back into a premier role in the passing game when fully healthy.
From RotoBaller
Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis has steadily accounted for a larger share of the backfield touches over the previous few weeks, supplanting rookie rusher Jaydon Blue as the handcuff to own behind starter Javonte Williams. Davis didn't get his first snaps with the team until Week 7's win over the Commanders, although he's since been an effective runner. While he hasn't eclipsed four touches in a given outing, the 27-year-old's efficiency has improved each week. If he can continue boasting more work, Davis may present some standalone fantasy value down the stretch. However, fantasy managers can't trust him as such just yet, considering Williams has dominated backfield opportunities for the entirety of 2025. Davis is a nice speculative stash in deep leagues, and a must-own for those carrying Williams this late in the campaign.
From RotoBaller
While the Washington Commanders have not yet cleared quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow) for contact, there's hope that he'll be able to suit up for Sunday's road outing with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite suffering a gruesome elbow injury back in Week 9, the LSU product has steadily progressed. Daniels has only been able to practice in a limited capacity since returning to the team, and will likely need to log a full session before being cleared to play. However, it's encouraging that the Commanders haven't ruled him out for this weekend's clash, leaving the door open for a return to action. If the second-year pro fails to be active for another contest, veteran Marcus Mariota will again lead the charge against a floundering Minnesota squad. Mariota has been serviceable in the former's stead, but would still be only a low-end streaming option for fantasy.
From RotoBaller
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr. (leg) looked much better in his second game back from a fibula fracture in Week 13, hauling in three of five targets for 78 yards in the 20-17 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Godwin suffered a gruesome leg injury in 2024, which affected his early-season play in 2025. The veteran receiver took some time to recover and get back to his normal self before the playoffs, and it paid off in Week 13. With injuries ravaging the Buccaneers' receiving corps, including Godwin, Mike Evans, and Jalen McMillan, the door is open for Godwin to have a role in fantasy lineups this week. The Buccaneers face the New Orleans Saints in Week 14, who Godwin has tormented in his NFL career. In Godwin's last six games against the Saints, he's averaged 95 receiving yards and 20.9 PPR fantasy points per game. With an improved target share moving forward, Godwin is shaping up to be a starting option in Week 14.
From RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has completely taken over the starting tight end role since the bye week. In back-to-back games, Fannin has played over 90% of the snaps, while veteran David Njoku has played under 50%. The rookie was able to find the endzone in Week 13, totaling 43 yards on four receptions against the San Francisco 49ers. As rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders enters the fold, Fannin has taken charge as the leading receiving option in the offense, leading the team in receptions and targets in back-to-back weeks. The Browns face the Tennessee Titans in Week 14, who have allowed the ninth-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. However, with a nice target share and connection with Sanders, Fannin is a TE1 in Week 14.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was back in action after a 10-week absence, but he looked as strong as ever while throwing for 261 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Bengals to a Thanksgiving night win over the Ravens. Burrow looked sharp for the most part and moved around well, while delivering the ball accurately and avoiding any re-aggravation of his toe injury. He and the Bengals will have to win out to have a shot at the playoffs, but Joe Cool looks ready to resume his regular role as one of the top fantasy quarterbacks in the league. Burrow and the Bengals will battle the Bills in Buffalo this week before a rematch with the Ravens. He's a strong option for fantasy lineups, since he'll need to be aggressive, and the Bengals' defense has regularly put the offense in a place where it needs to put up plenty of points this season.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans rookie wide receiver Jayden Higgins has quietly built a fantasy starting role in recent weeks. In the past four games, Higgins has hauled in 20 of 28 targets for 200 yards and two touchdowns, including his career high in yardage in Week 13 with C.J. Stroud back under center. While star receiver Nico Collins will continue to handle the bulk of the targets in Houston, Higgins has been a sturdy option as well. The Texans face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 14, who just allowed big games to George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb in Week 13. Higgins is a low-end starting option against the defending AFC champions.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears rookie running back Kyle Monangai has been a nice surprise for fantasy managers this season. In his last seven games, Monangai has averaged 15 attempts for 79.8 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 13.2 PPR points per game during that stretch. While the rookie has transcended the Bears' rushing attack, he did not participate in Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury, which could end his four-game streak of rushing touchdowns. The Bears played on Friday, so Monangai not being ready to practice five days later is concerning for his Week 14 outlook. The Bears face the division rival Green Bay Packers in Week 14, and with cold and snowy conditions possible, Monangai's power running style will be crucial this weekend. Thursday and Friday's practice reports will be important to monitor in determining Monangai's availability in Week 14.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud returned from his concussion last week against the Colts and led his team to a fourth straight win. After starting 0-3, Stroud's Texans are 7-5 and pushing for a playoff spot. In his return, he completed 22 of 35 passes for 276 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. In his nine games, he has racked up 1,978 yards, 11 touchdowns, and six interceptions. In their recent charge, though, the team has relied more heavily on the passing game, and Stroud has aired it out with 35+ pass attempts in each of his last three full games. He and the Texans face another critical matchup this week on Sunday Night Football against the Chiefs. It should be a great game, and Stroud and the Texans have favorable home matchups against the Cardinals and Raiders after Sunday night's road showdown. Stroud is a fringe option in single-QB leagues and a strong second QB in dual-QB leagues, as he tries to guide his team back to the postseason again this season.
From RotoBaller
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce has become a vital contributor to the Colts' offense over the last few weeks. While the Colts have lost three of their last four games, they've been in tough, hard-fought matchups against the Texans, Chiefs, Steelers, and Falcons. In those four competitive games, Pierce has totaled 27 targets and hauled in 15 catches for a total of 303 yards and two touchdowns. He had a season-high 115 yards against the Steelers in that stretch and has produced at least 65+ yards in seven of his last nine contests. As the Colts look to push for a playoff spot in the next few weeks, Pierce should continue to be heavily involved, and he brings a very high ceiling since he has emerged as the team's primary deep threat, posting an ADOT of 19.8 yards, which is the highest of any receiver in the NFL with more than 35 targets.
From RotoBaller
Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson has been a key contributor to his team's passing game all season, and he'll remain a strong starting option in all formats on Thursday Night Football, as the Cowboys roll into the Motor City. Ferguson has maintained consistent volume in the passing game eve with George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb putting up great numbers on the outside. Ferguson has at least four catches in each of his last four games and has totaled 162 receiving yards and a touchdown in those four contests. He is up to seven touchdowns on the season, and he remains a very strong starting option against the Lions' defense, which ranks in the middle of the pack against tight ends this season. In a neutral matchup, Ferguson's volume makes him the No. 4 TE this week in RotoBaller's Week 14 rankings, so he can be started with confidence in almost all leagues.
From RotoBaller
Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey continues to be one of the best fantasy kickers on the board this week, when the Cowboys roll into Detroit to take on the Lions. He converted all three of his field goal attempts last week and both of his extra points as well. He has made 22-of-24 field goals overall and 37-of-38 extra point attempts this season. He is 6-for-8 from 50+ yards and has knocked through a pair of field goals over 60 yards. If he gets the chances, he usually delivers, and playing indoors at Ford Field, the weather won't be an issue this Thursday. In RotoBaller's Week 14 rankings, Aubrey is the No. 2 option at the position, so start him with confidence this week.
From RotoBaller
Miami Dolphins veteran tight end Darren Waller made his return in Week 13, hauling in two of three targets for 47 yards in the 21-17 victory over the New Orleans Saints. Waller came back in Week 13, after suffering a pectoral injury in Week 7 that forced him to the injured reserve. The former Raiders' star was limited to just 47% of the snaps in his return, while backups Julian Hill played 58%, and Greg Dulcich played 37%. Waller faces a New York Jets defense in Week 14, which has allowed the third-most touchdowns to tight ends this season, with seven scores against them. Waller should see an expanded workload in Week 14, and is a low-end TE1 that could be relied on with injuries and bye weeks affecting other tight ends across the league.
From RotoBaller
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver KaVontae Turpin (shoulder) has been able to put in full practices this week after being banged up and battling illness in the last few weeks, so he should be ready for his usual workload this Thursday against the Lions. Turpin typically plays about 25% of snaps for the Cowboys and gets a few targets each game. He has totaled 19 catches for 260 yards and a touchdown in his 10 games this season, while also taking 12 carries for 63 yards. He had a season-high 33 rushing yards in the Cowboys' Thanksgiving win last week and caught both his targets for 28 receiving yards. With so many options in Dallas's passing game, Turpin is not a great option in most standard-sized leagues, but his big-play potential does give him a high ceiling if he breaks free for a big play. He's the No. 79 WR in RotBaller's Week 14 rankings, so he is best left on the bench in standard-sized leagues, although he is involved enough to be on the radar for DFS action as a bargain option.
From RotoBaller
Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason has an opportunity to handle the workload in Week 14. Last week, starting back Aaron Jones Sr. exited early after suffering a shoulder injury on a play he fumbled. Jones has dealt with a shoulder injury earlier in the season and was limited in practice on Wednesday. Mason has been very efficient with his limited workload this season, averaging 6.6 yards per carry in the last four games. In the games that Jones did not play earlier in the season due to a hamstring injury, Mason averaged over 70 rushing yards and had four touchdowns in those four games. The former 49er broke out in 2024 as a handcuff to Christian McCaffrey, and he has shown that same ability in Minnesota. If Jones is unable to play in Week 14 against the Washington Commanders, Mason would be a must-start in fantasy this week.
From RotoBaller
Arizona Cardinals running back Bam Knight had his most productive game of the season in Week 13, totaling 98 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Injuries have decimated the Cardinals' running back room, including starter James Conner (leg), primary backup Trey Benson (knee), and Emari Demercado (ankle), which has forced Knight to step up. With Benson still not practicing ahead of Week 14's game against the Los Angeles Rams, Knight may have to carry the workload again. A tough matchup is on deck for the Cardinals, as they face a Rams defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor Benson's status, as Knight could be a solid FLEX play despite the tough matchup in Week 14.
From RotoBaller