Champions Draft Recap

Mon Aug 4 4:22pm ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer

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RealTime Fantasy Sports is proud to present you the results of our “Champions Draft." The draft this season once again consists of the top rated fantasy players on our site. We invited players rated near the top of our Top Fantasy Players report. So this is the best of the best on our site.

In this column, we'll give you a round-by-round look at the draft. Each round includes some notes on that round, talking about what just went down. Hopefully, this gives you some insight into the draft and helps prepare you for all your drafts this coming year. I also give you a look at my pick each round and my thought process with that pick.

Before we get to that, here is a quick overview of the league format. We used the same rules as we do for the "All-Pro" fantasy leagues on our site. So you can view the entire set of rules on our main page for that game. But here is a brief look. Each team starts a quarterback, two running backs, two receivers, a tight end, a defensive/special teams, a kicker and a flex player (RB, WR or TE). Scoring is pretty standard. Touchdowns are worth six except for passing touchdowns, which are worth four. And it is a points per reception league, giving every player a point per reception. Defenses get points for sacks, interceptions and fumble recoveries. The rules are pretty standard with how many leagues operate these days.

ROUND 1

1.1   PaurPlay - Ja’Marr Chase

1.2   Fozzy Dog - Bijan Robinson

1.3   MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jahmyr Gibbs

1.4   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Saquon Barkley

1.5   Super Paurs - CeeDee Lamb

1.6   Sensei John Kreese - Justin Jefferson

1.7   Suncoast - Ashton Jeanty

1.8   Bubbles Army - Christian McCaffrey

1.9   Yang's Team - Malik Nabers

1.10  Crusty - Devon Achane

1.11  Birds - Puka Nacua

1.12  Wreckingcrew - Derrick Henry

NOTES: The first round was pretty chalk, going very similar to the current ADP. These savvy owners didn’t take many chances with the first round. There were seven running backs and five receivers picked in Round 1. The trend of more running-back heavy in the early rounds continued in this draft. Last season in this same league, five running backs were picked in Round 1 compared to seven this year. It was not a surprise to see no tight ends or quarterbacks picked in the first round. Amon-Ra St. Brown was the only player with a current ADP in the first round that wasn’t picked by this group. And St. Brown went with the first pick in Round 2.

MY PICK: CeeDee Lamb. I felt Lamb was the safest of the options on the board. I didn’t expect any of the top three backs to be there and felt Lamb was going to be the pick. It played out that way and I’m happy with getting him. He should be a target monster in a pass-heavy offense. I feel he might be the safest of all the first-round picks this year. His floor is super high in this offense.

ROUND 2

2.1   Wreckingcrew - Amon-Ra St. Brown

2.2   Birds - Brian Thomas Jr.

2.3   Crusty - Josh Jacobs

2.4   Yang's Team - Nico Collins

2.5   Bubbles Army - Drake London

2.6   Suncoast  - A.J. Brown

2.7   Sensei John Kreese - Jonathan Taylor

2.8   Super Paurs - Chase Brown

2.9   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Lamar Jackson

2.10  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Bucky Irving

2.11  Fozzy Dog - Brock Bowers

2.12  PaurPlay - Alvin Kamara

NOTES: Round 2 saw our first quarterback and tight end picked. BigHawgBreach grabbed Lamar Jackson with the ninth pick this round. This might be a tad early on Jackson (26.69 ADP), but it was a tossup on whether he would be available for him the next round. . . . .Brock Bowers goes to Fozzy Dog at the end of the round. He goes a little after his ADP (20.14) but not by much. . . . .Two teams (Birds and Yang’s Team) go receiver-receiver with their first two picks. And Maxx_Money is the only team to take running backs with his first two picks.

MY PICK: Chase Brown. I was hoping for Jonathan Taylor here but he goes one pick before me to Sensei John Kreese. I’ll take Brown, though. Had some debate between him and Bucky Irving, but just feel Brown is the better pick at this point. He had a breakout season last year and didn’t even open the year as the starter. He starts from day one this year in an explosive offense. Plus, he has little competition for carries. I think he can build on last year.

ROUND 3

3.1   PaurPlay - Kyren Williams

3.2   Fozzy Dog - Garrett Wilson

3.3   MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Ladd McConkey

3.4   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Trey McBride

3.5   Super Paurs - Breece Hall

3.6   Sensei John Kreese - Tyreek Hill

3.7   Suncoast - Tee Higgins

3.8   Bubbles Army - Jaxon Smith-Njigba

3.9   Yang's Team - Josh Allen

3.10  Crusty - Marvin Harrison Jr.

3.11  Birds - Omarion Hampton

3.12  Wreckingcrew - James Cook

NOTES: Just like the previous round, this round had a quarterback and tight end selected. The rest of the picks were running backs and tight ends. Trey McBride and Josh Allen were the players selected at tight end and quarterback.  BigHawgBreach is the only team without a receiver on their roster after three rounds. . . .Yang’s team took Allen and is the only team without a running back after three rounds. . . . Birds picked rookie running back Omarion Hampton with the 11th pick this round. Hampton’s ADP is climbing in a hurry, though, after the injury to Najee Harris. Hampton’s ADP has jumped five spots recently (33.45).

MY PICK: Breece Hall. I was worried about the backs that will be left once I pick again, so felt going Hall was the right move. I know he carries some questions with more of a timeshare expected in New York this year, but he is the top pass-catching back. This gives him a high weekly ceiling in my view. I still think he can produce big even if he is splitting more work. Hall has a lot to prove this year and should play with a chip on his shoulder.

ROUND 4

4.1   Wreckingcrew - Joe Burrow

4.2   Birds - Jayden Daniels

4.3   Crusty - Davante Adams

4.4   Yang's Team - Chuba Hubbard

4.5   Bubbles Army - George Kittle

4.6   Suncoast - Jalen Hurts

4.7   Sensei John Kreese - Kenneth Walker III

4.8   Super Paurs - D.J. Moore

4.9   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Rashee Rice

4.10  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Mike Evans

4.11  Fozzy Dog - Terry McLaurin

4.12  PaurPlay - Tetairoa McMillan

NOTES: This was the first round that had multiple quarterbacks picked, seeing three fly off the board. Surprisingly, there were just two running backs selected. That is the fewest in any round to start the draft. . . . .The most popular strategy through four rounds is to have two running backs and two receivers on your roster. Five of the 12 teams have this combination on their team. . . .PaurPlay is the first team to pick a rookie receiver, getting Tet McMillan with the last pick in the round. This is a tad sooner than his ADP (57.55), but he wasn’t going to be there when PaurPlay got to pick again at the end of the sixth round.

MY PICK: D.J. Moore. This pick scares me some with all the mouths to feed in Chicago and still some questions about quarterback Caleb Williams. But even with that said, Moore is a super consistent player in what should be a pass-heavy offense. I think he can rack up the catches once again and serve as a more than solid WR2 for me. I was really close to getting Tet McMillan here but passed in hopes of him being available for me in Round 5.

ROUND 5

5.1   PaurPlay - D’Andre Swift

5.2   Fozzy Dog - Courtland Sutton

5.3   MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Xavier Worthy

5.4   BigHawgBreach Silverback - James Conner

5.5   Super Paurs - Calvin Ridley

5.6   Sensei John Kreese - Sam LaPorta

5.7   Suncoast - D.K. Metcalf

5.8   Bubbles Army - TreVeyon Henderson

5.9   Yang's Team - RJ Harvey

5.10  Crusty - Travis Kelce

5.11  Birds - DeVonta Smith

5.12  Wreckingcrew - Zay Flowers

NOTES: There was not a single quarterback picked this round but two tight ends were selected (Sam LaPorta and Travis Kelce). It was another receiver-heavy round, seeing six receivers get picked. . . . .PaurPlay is the only team to have three running backs after five rounds, getting D’Andre Swift with the first pick this round. . . .On the flip side, five teams have three receivers on their roster at this point of the draft. Running backs went early and often in the draft but teams are now loading up on receivers after those first few rounds.

MY PICK: Calvin Ridley. Ridley is one of my favorite values this year. He is the clear top target for Cam Ward and I wouldn’t be surprised if he has a career-best season. This is a huge upgrade for him at quarterback, which is great for Ridley, who was still able to produce good numbers last year in this offense. I absolutely love Ridley as a WR3 or flex play on a weekly basis.

ROUND 6

6.1   Wreckingcrew - Evan Engram

6.2   Birds - Kaleb Johnson

6.3   Crusty - Rome Odunze

6.4   Yang's Team - Joe Mixon

6.5   Bubbles Army - George Pickens

6.6   Suncoast - David Montgomery

6.7   Sensei John Kreese - Patrick Mahomes

6.8   Super Paurs - Tony Pollard

6.9   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Isiah Pacheco

6.10  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Aaron Jones

6.11  Fozzy Dog - Jaydon Blue

6.12  PaurPlay - Jerry Jeudy

NOTES: Rookie Jaydon Blue continues to shoot up draft boards, being the first of the Cowboys running backs picked. Fozzy Dog got him with the 11th pick this round. His ADP is 108.89, so this pick was a little earlier than anticipated. . . . .This is another round with just a quarterback and tight end picked. It was a more running-back heavy round, seeing seven backs go. . . . .Half the teams have a quarterback after six rounds. And half have a tight end as well. Three teams (PaurPlay, Maxx_Money and Super Paurs) only have running backs and receivers on their roster.

MY PICK: Tony Pollard. I go with Titans on back-to-back picks. This wasn’t a plan by any means, getting players on what could be bad teams, but it just worked out that way. Pollard might split more work this year but at this point of the draft, I’m totally fine with getting him as my third running back. I can use him as a flex play in the right matchup and spot play as my RB2.

ROUND 7

7.1   PaurPlay - Matthew Golden

7.2   Fozzy Dog - T.J. Hockenson

7.3   MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jameson Williams

7.4   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Chris Godwin

7.5   Super Paurs - Baker Mayfield

7.6   Sensei John Kreese - Chris Olave

7.7   Suncoast - Deebo Samuel

7.8   Bubbles Army - Jaylen Waddle

7.9   Yang's Team - Travis Hunter

7.10  Crusty - Stefon Diggs

7.11  Birds - Jordan Addison

7.12  Wreckingcrew - Cam Skattebo

NOTES: Receivers were flying off the board this round. There were a total of nine receivers picked. It was a mix of veterans, rookies, players returning from injury and some wild cards. There were a lot of boom or bust picks. . . .Rookie Cam Skattebo was the only running back selected, going with the last pick. Wreckingcrew took Skattebo, who went ahead of teammate Tyrone Tracy. . . .PaurPlay and Maxx_Money continued their trend of going running back and receiver. It is just those two teams that have all running backs and receivers after seven rounds. Super Paur took quarterback Baker Mayfield, giving him a different position for the first time. . . . .Fozzy Dog is the first team to take a second tight end, selecting T.J. Hockenson with the second pick. He pairs Hockenson with Brock Bowers, giving him quite the one-two punch at tight end.

MY PICK: Baker Mayfield. I just couldn’t pass up the value of Mayfield here. I was surprised he was still sitting there. Sure, he isn’t a running quarterback, but his passing numbers can be off the charts. He has some of the best receivers to work with in all of football - even better than last year. Mayfield is going to post some huge numbers. I wouldn’t be surprised if he leads all of football in passing yards and passing touchdowns.

ROUND 8

8.1   Wreckingcrew - Jauan Jennings

8.2   Birds - Zach Charbonnet

8.3   Crusty - Caleb Williams

8.4   Yang's Team - Tyrone Tracy Jr.

8.5   Bubbles Army - Bo Nix

8.6   Suncoast - Jaylen Warren

8.7   Sensei John Kreese - Brian Robinson Jr.

8.8   Super Paurs - Tank Bigsby

8.9   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Emeka Egbuka

8.10  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Ricky Pearsall

8.11  Fozzy Dog - Javonte Williams

8.12  PaurPlay - Colston Loveland

NOTES: Two more teams got their quarterback this round, making it eight of 12 teams with a signal caller. . . .This was the round with running backs in possible time shares. Some of the backs picked were Tyrone Tracy, Jaylen Warren, Brian Robinson, Tank Bigsby and Javonte Williams. All of these guys have some question marks and some undefined roles for the coming season. The position is thinning out in a hurry after eight rounds.

MY PICK: Tank Bigsby. This is my real first risky pick. Bigsby has been getting the first snaps often in training camp, so he is the back I trust most in this offense right now. I’m good with taking a chance on him as my fourth running back. Bigsby has some potential if getting the goal-line work and early-down carries for the Jaguars.

ROUND 9

9.1   PaurPlay - Tyjae Spears

9.2   Fozzy Dog - Cooper Kupp

9.3   MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - J.K. Dobbins

9.4   BigHawgBreach Silverback - Mark Andrews

9.5   Super Paurs - Jake Ferguson

9.6   Sensei John Kreese - Travis Etienne

9.7   Suncoast - Jayden Reed

9.8   Bubbles Army - Jordan Mason

9.9   Yang's Team - Quinshon Judkins

9.10  Crusty - Jerome Ford

9.11  Birds - Tyler Warren

9.12  Wreckingcrew - Rhamondre Stevenson

NOTES: This was the most tight-end heavy round, having three picked. We had a rookie (Tyler Warren) and two veterans (Mark Andrews and Jake Ferguson). . . . .Yang’s team took a chance on rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, who faces an uncertain future because of his off-the-field issues. Judkins is plummeting in drafts right now, seeing his ADP dip 15 spots the last week. . . . .There was not a single quarterback picked in Round 9, so four teams still need a QB1 after nine rounds.

MY PICK: Jake Ferguson. If I’m going to wait to take a tight end, Ferguson is one of my favorite targets. I hate to get two Cowboy pass catchers in my starting lineup, though. That is my only trepidation with this pick. But even with that said, they are going to throw the ball a ton and I think Ferguson gets the second most targets. He will be a pretty dependable weekly tight end for me.

ROUND 10

10.1  Wreckingcrew - Kyler Murray

10.2  Birds - Braelon Allen

10.3  Crusty - Kyle Pitts

10.4  Yang's Team Tucker Kraft

10.5  Bubbles Army - Isaac Guerendo

10.6  Suncoast - Najee Harris

10.7  Sensei John Kreese - Jakobi Meyers

10.8  Super Paurs - Khalil Shakir

10.9  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Jalen McMillan

10.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - David Njoku

10.11 Fozzy Dog - Justin Fields

10.12 PaurPlay - Dak Prescott

NOTES: Two of the three teams without a quarterback took one this round. Maxx_Money is now the only team without a quarterback after 10 rounds. The quarterbacks picked this round were Kyler Murray, Justin Fields and Dak Prescott. . . .Wreckingcrew is the first team to get a second quarterback. He pairs Joe Burrow with Murray. . . .This is the first round Maxx_Money took a player other than a running back or receiver. He got tight end David Njoku to be his TE1. . . . Bubbles Army picked running back Isaac Guerendo with the fifth pick. He is considered the top handcuff in the game and he did well to pair him with his first-round pick of Christian McCaffrey

MY PICK: Khalil Shakir. His high-ankle sprain is a concern, but Shakir should be ready for Week 1. And I still think he leads the team in targets despite the Bills upgrading options in the passing game this offseason. He had a breakout season last year and has quickly become the favorite target of Josh Allen. I like him as a reserve receiver at this point of the draft. This might be my favorite pick of my draft.

ROUND 11

11.1  PaurPlay - Josh Downs

11.2  Fozzy Dog - Miles Sanders

11.3  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Rachaad White

11.4  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brock Purdy

11.5  Super Paurs - Michael Pittman Jr.

11.6  Sensei John Kreese - Trey Benson

11.7  Suncoast - Dallas Goedert

11.8  Bubbles Army - Dalton Kincaid

11.9  Yang's Team - Keon Coleman

11.10 Crusty - Austin Ekeler

11.11 Birds - Tre Harris

11.12 Wreckingcrew - Jonnu Smith

NOTES: There is still one team without a quarterback (Maxx_Money) while BigHawgBreach is the second team to add a second quarterback. He took Brock Purdy with the fourth pick, putting him with Lamar Jackson. . . .Suncoast is the last team to get a TE1, taking Dallas Goedert with the seventh pick. He pairs Goedert with his starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts. . . .There were three tight ends picked. And five of the 12 teams now have two tight ends on their roster.

MY PICK: Michael Pittman. This is a boom-or-bust pick but I like taking a chance on Pittman here. He is a guy that has topped 100 receptions in the past and remains the No. 1 receiver for the Colts. If Anthony Richardson can figure it out, you have to like Pittman for a rebound season. Remember, He was slowed by a back injury most of last year. His past numbers don’t lie. He can be a very productive fantasy receiver if all is well for him.

ROUND 12

12.1  Wreckingcrew - Jayden Higgins

12.2  Birds - Ray Davis

12.3  Crusty - Tyler Allgeier

12.4  Yang's Team - Drake Maye

12.5  Bubbles Army - Darnell Mooney

12.6  Suncoast - Christian Kirk

12.7  Sensei John Kreese - Brandon Aubrey

12.8  Super Paurs - Luther Burden III

12.9  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brandon Aiyuk

12.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jared Goff

12.11 Fozzy Dog - Denver Broncos

12.12 PaurPlay - Nick Chubb

NOTES: We have our first kicker and defense picked this round. Sensei John Kreese picked kicker Brandon Aubrey with the seventh pick. And Fozzy Dog picked the Broncos with the 11th pick. . . .Maxx_Money finally got his QB1, taking Jared Goff with the 10th pick. There are just three teams with two quarterbacks on their roster after 12 rounds.

MY PICK: Luther Burden. I would have liked the rookie receiver a lot more if he landed on a different team, but I still think he has a solid rookie season as the No. 3 receiver in this offense. He is enjoying an up-and-down training camp but flashed plenty of great things, showing his potential. He can be a top player in this league and I look for the Bears to get him involved in the offense plenty his rookie year. This is a good depth piece for me.

ROUND 13

13.1  PaurPlay - C.J. Stroud

13.2  Fozzy Dog - Kyle Williams

13.3  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Justin Herbert

13.4  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Marquise Brown

13.5  Super Paurs - Chigoziem Okonkwo

13.6  Sensei John Kreese - J.J. McCarthy

13.7  Suncoast - Dylan Sampson

13.8  Bubbles Army - Trevor Lawrence

13.9  Yang's Team - Brenton Strange

13.10 Crusty - Xavier Legette

13.11 Birds - Elijah Arroyo

13.12 Wreckingcrew - Jaylen Wright

NOTES: Four teams got their backup quarterback this round. Some notable names selected were C.J. Stroud and Justin Herbert. Maxx_Money went back-to-back quarterbacks after waiting 11 rounds to get his first. He pairs Herbert with Goff. . . .There were plenty of teams taking chances on rookies, seeing Kyle Williams, Dylan Sampson and Elijah Arroyo picked. . . . There was not a single kicker or defense picked after seeing two get picked for the first time the previous round.

MY PICK: Chigoziem Okonkwo. This gives me a third Titan. Not ideal. But I like the prospects of Okonkwo with Cam Ward now his starting quarterback. Rookie quarterbacks like to target the tight end. Okonkwo didn’t have quite the breakout season most expected last year but Ward is a huge upgrade at quarterback for him. I think Okonkwo can have a career-best season and serve the backup tight end role well for me.

ROUND 14

14.1  Wreckingcrew - Jalen Royals

14.2  Birds - Buffalo Bills

14.3  Crusty - Tua Tagovailoa

14.4  Yang's Team - Rashid Shaheed

14.5  Bubbles Army - Bhayshul Tuten

14.6  Suncoast - Jordan Love

14.7  Sensei John Kreese - Philadelphia Eagles

14.8  Super Paurs - Bryce Young

14.9  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brashard Smith

14.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Kareem Hunt

14.11 Fozzy Dog - Will Shipley

14.12 PaurPlay - Houston Texans

NOTES: Three defenses were picked but not a single kicker. You do not need to leave the draft with a player drafted at every position, though, so some teams are likely to just not draft a kicker or defense. . . .Quarterback Jordan Love was a popular pick last season but falls all the way to the sixth pick in Round 14. He will be the backup quarterback for Suncoast, backing up Hurts. . . .There were two Chiefs running backs picked with consecutive picks. Rookie Brashard Smith was picked right ahead of veteran Kareem Hunt. BigHawgBreach already had Isiah Pacheco on his roster before taking Smith this round.

MY PICK: Bryce Young. I like taking a chance on Young as my QB2. He had a great finish to last season, finally showing his potential. The Panthers did well to upgrade around him offensively, finally giving him a legit No. 1 receiver. Young can build on last year and see his numbers be even more consistent this season. He should be a solid backup for me.

ROUND 15

15.1  PaurPlay - Mason Taylor

15.2  Fozzy Dog - Jarquez Hunter

15.3  MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Zach Ertz

15.4  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Marvin Mims

15.5  Super Paurs - Cameron Dicker

15.6  Sensei John Kreese - Darren Waller

15.7  Suncoast - Isaiah Likely

15.8  Bubbles Army - Baltimore Ravens

15.9  Yang's Team - Pittsburgh Steelers

15.10 Crusty - Jake Bates

15.11 Birds - Chase McLaughlin

15.12 Wreckingcrew - Brandon McManus

NOTES: There were four backup tight ends picked this round, including Mason Taylor, Zach Ertz, Darren Waller and Isaiah Likely. . . . .Six of the other eight picks were either kickers or defenses. It was pretty standard for this point of the draft.

MY PICK: Cameron Dicker. I really wanted to get Brandon Aubrey a few picks earlier but he went before I could take him. I see the value in getting a top kicker a little more these days. I think Dicker is a top-five option his year, capable of very consistent numbers in this offense. He should get plenty of weekly chances.

ROUND 16

16.1  Wreckingcrew - Los Angeles Rams

16.2  Birds - Anthony Richardson

16.3  Crusty - New York Giants

16.4  Yang's Team - Ka’imi Fairbairn

16.5  Bubbles Army - Wil Lutz

16.6  Suncoast - Josh Palmer

16.7  Sensei John Kreese - Jack Bech

16.8  Super Paurs - Dallas Cowboys

16.9  BigHawgBreach Silverback - Kansas City Chiefs

16.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Minnesota Vikings

16.11 Fozzy Dog - Devin Neal

16.12 PaurPlay - Harrison Butker

NOTES: This was mostly a not very exciting round of kickers and defenses. Of the 12 picks, eight were either kickers or defenses. PaurPlay had the honor of the last pick in the draft and took kicker Harrison Butker to round out his roster.

MY PICK: Cowboys defense. This unit didn’t live up to quite their potential this year but injuries were an issue. They can get after the quarterback and their secondary will take chances. I think they will be a more than solid No. 1 defense for me. 

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
Justin Jefferson Aug 6 3:00pm CT
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Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (hamstring) remains sidelined at training camp practice on Wednesday, according to Kevin Seifert of ESPN. Jefferson's left-hamstring strain that he suffered on July 24 isn't serious, but the Vikings continue to play it safe with one of the top pass-catchers in the NFL during camp. The Vikings aren't at all concerned that the 26-year-old All-Pro will be in danger of missing Week 1 of the regular season, and the fact that he's been seen working on side fields with trainers could be a sign that he'll return to practice soon. It wouldn't be a surprise if we don't see Jefferson play at all in the preseason, but he should be ready come Week 1. Fantasy managers should be monitoring Jefferson's progress, but he's still RotoBaller's second-ranked fantasy receiver.

From RotoBaller

Malik Nabers Aug 6 2:40pm CT
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New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers said it was "part of the plan" for him to miss the final few portions of training camp practice on Wednesday, per SNY's Connor Hughes. The Giants are trying to make sure Nabers is ready for Week 1 in early September. The 22-year-old second-year wideout has dealt with a toe injury off and on since college and also missed some time in camp with a minor shoulder injury, but he's not currently dealing with any specific injuries. We will continue to keep a close eye on Nabers' practice participation all year long, but it sounds like he could be held out of early-week practices for much of the year. The former sixth overall pick in 2024 proved right away that he's a WR1 in fantasy with a 109-1,204-7 line in 15 games (13 starts). It was even more impressive given the team's struggles at the QB position.

From RotoBaller

RJ Harvey Aug 6 2:20pm CT
RJ Harvey

The Denver Broncos' first unofficial depth chart of the preseason lists J.K. Dobbins as the starting running back, Jaleel McLaughlin as second-string, Audric Estime as third-string, Tyler Badie as fourth-string and Blake Watson and rookie second-rounder RJ Harvey as fifth-string, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. It's eye-opening since Harvey has mixed in with Dobbins on the first-team offense during training camp. Head coach Sean Payton typically lists rookies near the bottom of the first depth chart, so fantasy managers probably shouldn't read too much into Harvey's depth-chart positioning just yet. All signs from practice suggest that Harvey will be the RB2 behind Dobbins this year, with McLaughlin and Estime being sprinkled in. Especially in PPR leagues, Harvey is worth targeting as an RB3/flex, and he'd be a weekly starter if Dobbins misses more time with injury.

From RotoBaller

Rashee Rice Aug 6 1:00pm CT
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Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice (groin) was held out of training camp practice on Wednesday due to a groin issue, according to Matt Derrick of Chiefs Digest. It's unclear what the severity of Rice's groin issue is, but for now we'll consider him day-to-day. The 25-year-old played in only four games in 2024 in his second year in the league due to an LCL tear in his knee. He's fully recovered from that but has a potential suspension hanging over his head for 2025 that has dropped his fantasy appeal to that of a WR3/flex. Rice had 938 receiving yards and seven touchdowns on 79 receptions in 16 regular-season games (eight starts) his rookie year and was headed for another big season last year before his injury. Even with a potential three- or four-game suspension coming, Rice will be worth stashing in all fantasy leagues as one of quarterback Patrick Mahomes' favorite weapons.

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Jordan Addison Aug 6 12:13pm CT
Jordan Addison

Dynasty | Vikings receiver Jordan Addison was suspended three games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Dynasty Analysis: As expected, Addison won't be available for the start of the season due to his involvement in a 2014 DUI and reckless driving incident. Things could have been much worse for Addison in terms of the actual incident and the suspension. Still, dynasty managers will need to make arrangements in their lineups for the first three games. In the end, this won't affect his dynasty value much, but it remains a red flag as another incident would result in harsher punishment.

From Dynasty League Fantasy

Ladd McConkey Aug 6 12:13pm CT
Ladd McConkey

Dynasty | The Chargers have signed free agent wide receiver Keenan Allen. Dynasty Analysis: Allen gets a one-year deal with the terms being undisclosed. After the Chargers lost Mike Williams to a sudden retirement, they were swift to bring back one of their most productive receivers of all-time. Allen will join a group consisting of Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston and a host of others. While he won't come close to posting his WR1 numbers he enjoyed in his prime with the Chargers, he should still have some value in dynasty leagues as a WR2/3 next season.

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Tony Pollard Aug 6 12:10pm CT
Tony Pollard

Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard is listed as the RB1 on the team's first unofficial preseason depth chart ahead of Tyjae Spears. Meanwhile, Spears is listed as the co-RB2 with rookie Kalel Mullings. Head coach Brian Callahan has envisioned more of an even split in this year's backfield between Pollard and Spears, and ESPN's Jeremy Fowler said earlier this week that "people I've talked to in Tennessee believe Spears has positioned himself for an uptick" in opportunities after he averaged 9.5 touches per game last year. Assuming everyone is healthy, Pollard is probably the RB1, but the margin figures to shrink between he and Spears in 2025. It puts Pollard more on the RB2/3 borderline, while Spears is a decent RB4/flex target in PPR leagues or as a handcuff to Pollard. In his first year in Tennessee, Pollard had a career-high 1,079 rushing yards and five TDs on 260 carries.

From RotoBaller

Cam Ward Aug 6 12:00pm CT
Cam Ward

Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan said that rookie first-round quarterback Cam Ward and the starters will play in every preseason game. In the team's preseason opener this Saturday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Ward and the starters will get a series or two. Even before it was announced that Will Levis (shoulder) would miss all of the 2025 season, Ward, the first overall pick in this year's NFL draft, was fully expected to be the starter entering Week 1. The 23-year-old has had his ups and downs at training camp this summer, but Callahan also said that Ward has shown growth heading into his first NFL season. Ward doesn't have many options to throw to outside of receiver Calvin Ridley, and he wasn't praised for his rushing ability in the pre-draft process, so this will most likely be a learning year for the youngster from Miami. Treat him as a low-end QB2 in fantasy.

From RotoBaller

James Cook Aug 6 11:40am CT
James Cook

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook will not practice again on Wednesday at training camp as he continues his hold-in, according to head coach Sean McDermott. Cook took part in practices during the spring and began training camp practicing with the rest of the team before changing his tune recently while in the midst of contract-extension talks. The 25-year-old will miss a third straight practice as he heads into the final year of his current deal. The former second-rounder (63rd overall) in 2022 out of Georgia had 1,000 rushing yards for the second straight season in 2024 and also led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns on 207 carries over 16 regular-season starts. Cook will regress in the TD department, but a new extension would go a long way to securing a workhorse role for him again in 2025 while he tries to hold off Ray Davis and Ty Johnson in the backfield.

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Cedric Tillman Aug 6 11:20am CT
Cedric Tillman

ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi reports that Cleveland Browns wide receivers Jerry Jeudy and Cedric Tillman will not play in the team's preseason opener this Friday against the Carolina Panthers. Jeudy has been healthy during training camp this summer, but Tillman returned to practice last Saturday after leaving practice early the day prior with a minor lower-leg injury. The Browns are playing it safe early in the preseason and won't start quarterback Joe Flacco, either, with him being the strong favorite to start under center to begin the regular season. Jeudy and Tillman should be the team's top two wideouts once the regular season kicks off, with Diontae Johnson vying for WR3 duties. Jeudy established himself as the top dog for the Browns last year with a career season (90-1,229-4) line, but he's merely a WR3/flex in fantasy given Cleveland's QB situation.

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Dont'e Thornton Jr. Aug 6 11:10am CT
Dont'e Thornton Jr.

On the Las Vegas Raiders' first unofficial depth chart of the preseason, they've listed rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. as a starter opposite Jakobi Meyers. Thornton has impressed all season leading into his first year in the NFL and continues to get reps with the first-team offense during training camp. With the Raiders expected to play their starters in their preseason opener this Thursday against the Seattle Seahawks, we should see the 22-year-old get some run with quarterback Geno Smith for a series or two. So far, Thornton has been more impressive than Jack Bech, and he could operate as Smith's top deep threat down the field in 2025. Thornton averaged an impressive 25.4 yards per catch in his final season at Tennessee and could be worth a late-round flier in deep fantasy leagues. RotoBaller has him ranked as the WR78.

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Dillon Gabriel Aug 6 11:10am CT
Dillon Gabriel

Cleveland Browns quarterbacks Kenny Pickett (hamstring) and Dillon Gabriel (hamstring) will not play in the team's preseason opener this Friday against the Carolina Panthers, per Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team. In addition, the Browns will hold out veteran Joe Flacco, which means rookie fifth-rounder Shedeur Sanders will make the start and share QB duties with the recently-signed Tyler Huntley. Although nothing is official yet, Flacco is now the strong favorite to be named Cleveland's starting QB heading into Week 1 of the regular season. Both Pickett and the rookie Gabriel have been held out of team drills the last few days with hamstring injuries, and the minor ailment has really put a dent in Pickett's chances of winning the QB competition. It's unclear if both Pickett and Gabriel will be ready to go for the second preseason game on Aug. 16 versus the Eagles.

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Demario Douglas Aug 6 11:00am CT
Demario Douglas

New England Patriots wide receiver DeMario Douglas was "popping" during New England's practice session on Wednesday, according to reports from Mike Reiss of ESPN. During a scrimmage against the Washington Commanders, Douglas was credited for "having a day" against their secondary. The 24-year-old is competing alongside Stefon Diggs for the top role in the wide receiver room. Last season, Douglas began to establish a strong connection with Drake Maye over the final stretch. In his last eight games, he saw just under five targets per game and eclipsed the 50-yard mark three times. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during camp as he could continue to establish himself, as the top pass catcher. For now, he is worth a look as a WR4 with upside in standard formats.

From RotoBaller

Zach Ertz Aug 6 10:40am CT
Zach Ertz

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz was described as a "cheat code" during Washington's practice session on Wednesday. The veteran tight end inked a one-year contract worth $6.25 million in the offseason to return to D.C. after a strong debut season. In 2024, Ertz emerged as the No.2 option in the passing attack as he brought in 66 passes for 654 yards and seven scores. Ertz was a force down the stretch, tallying six of his touchdowns over the final seven games. Even though the Commanders added a true WR2 in Deebo Samuel Sr. during the offseason, fantasy managers should still expect Ertz to produce in the offense. He should continue to be a reliable option in the middle of the field for Jayden Daniels. He should be viewed as a high-floor, low-end TE1 in all formats.

From RotoBaller

Tyreek Hill Aug 6 9:20am CT
Tyreek Hill

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (undisclosed) is not at Wednesday's practice due to an undisclosed injury. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status in case this injury begins to linger. However, for the time being, Hill should be viewed as day-to-day. During the offseason, Hill underwent wrist surgery, but he has expressed he was fully healthy at the start of camp. Last season, the 31-year-old had a down year to his standard as he caught just 959 yards and six touchdowns on 81 receptions. However, in 2022 and 2023, Hill posted back-to-back 1,700+ yard campaigns serving as the top target in the Miami passing attack. Despite his age struggles last season, Hill is worth a look as a WR2 with upside as he should continue to be Tua Tagovailoa's top target throughout 2025.

From RotoBaller

Matthew Stafford Aug 6 9:20am CT
Matthew Stafford

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (back) is dealing with an aggravated disc. The veteran has received an epidural to help him deal with it. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network noted that while the team is remaining cautious with him during camp, he remains on track to be ready to play in Week 1 of the regular season. Fantasy managers should continue to keep a close eye on his status during the preseason in case he faces a setback. For the time being, Jimmy Garoppolo is slated to continue to take first-team reps during camp. Last season, Stafford had a bit of a down year as his top two wideouts, Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, both missed time. He threw for just 3,762 yards and 20 scores. However, with Davante Adams joining Nacua, Stafford is worth a look as a high-upside QB2 in all leagues.

From RotoBaller

Brian Thomas Jr. Aug 6 9:10am CT
Brian Thomas Jr.

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (illness) is unable to practice on Wednesday due to an illness. Fantasy managers should continue to keep an eye on his status, but it will likely not limit him for more than a few days. Thomas enjoyed an impressive rookie season and is emerging as one of the top wideouts in the sport. As a rookie, the former LSU standout caught 87 passes for 1,828 yards and 10 touchdowns. He enjoyed a strong conclusion to the campaign when he averaged 98.6 yards per game over his final six contests. During this stretch, Thomas averaged a stellar 22.9 PPR points per game and found the back of the ned zone five times. Even with top prospect Travis Hunter joining him on the depth chart, Thomas remains a high-end WR1 in all leagues heading into 2025.

From RotoBaller

Kyren Williams Aug 6 8:25am CT
Kyren Williams

Dynasty | The Rams have signed running back Kyren Williams to a contract extension. Dynasty Analysis: And just like that, there goes any idea of some kind of running back competition or Williams bolting via free agency at the end of the season. This will lock him into RB1 status in a more concrete way and he remains a key part of any dynasty team. In addition, this puts a nice little pin in the dynasty balloons of Jarquez Hunter, Ronnie Rivers and Blake Corum, though Hunter looks like the next man up should Williams miss time.

Nate Hobbs Aug 6 8:25am CT
Nate Hobbs

Green Bay Packers cornerback Nate Hobbs (knee) had knee surgery on Saturday but could still be ready for his Packers debut in Week 1 against the Lions, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky. He will miss the preseason, though, after undergoing the procedure to repair a partial meniscus tear. Hobbs played the first four seasons of his career with the Raiders and signed a big four-year deal worth $48 million with the Packers. He missed six games last season and 16 over the last three seasons combined because of ankle injuries, a hand injury, and illness. Injuries were a big part of why the Packers parted ways with star cornerback Jaire Alexander this offseason, and Hobbs is expected to help replace Alexander. While this may not be an injury that impacts his regular-season availability directly, it could be a bad sign if it's the start of a trend.

Courtland Sutton Aug 6 8:20am CT
Courtland Sutton

Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton looks "even better" in camp this season, according to Zac Stevens of The DNVR.com. Broncos offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi noted that Sutton "has been having a really good camp" and that "he looks to me even better than he did last camp." This is an excellent sign for the 29-year-old wideout as he enjoyed a career season in 2024 with rookie Bo Nix under center. After a slow start through the first seven games, where he averaged a modest 39.6 yards per game, Sutton became a league-winner down the stretch. From Weeks 8 through 18 (final 10 games), Sutton averaged a stellar 18.2 PPR points per game with 80.4 receiving yards per game and six total touchdowns. Fantasy managers should continue to view Sutton as a WR2 with upside as he enters the 2025 campaign as the clear top target for Nix.

From RotoBaller