Thu Oct 16 12:13pm ET
Field Level Media
Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans could be a one-man cavalry when Tampa Bay treks to Detroit in a fight atop the NFC standings on Monday night.
Tampa Bay (5-1) owns the best record in the conference and a long list of hurting wide receivers with the Lions (4-2) up next in the primetime rematch of a 20-16 win by the Bucs last season.
Evans was on the field as practice began Thursday, even if he was one of the few players at his position available for work.
Evans would be salve to the wounded offense of the Bucs, who already ruled out rookie standout Emeka Egbuka, the team leader in receptions (27), targets (42), receiving yards (469) and touchdown receptions (five). Egbuka left the Week 6 victory with a strained hamstring last week.
Tampa Bay also ruled out running back Bucky Irving for the third consecutive game with shoulder and foot injuries.
Evans missed Tampa Bay's games against the Philadelphia Eagles (Sunday), at the Seattle Seahawks (Oct. 5) and San Francisco 49ers (Oct. 12). He was available to practice on Thursday for the first time since sustaining the injury in the fourth quarter of a 29-27 triumph over the New York Jets last month.
Chris Godwin made his return from a dislocated ankle -- he was injured in Week 7 of last season and missed the first three games of 2025 -- but hasn't played in a game with Evans since they were both hurt in the Oct. 21, 2024 game against the Ravens.
As Evans primes for his own return, Godwin is dealing with a leg issue and did not play last week.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield had only 12 completions -- 10 to Evans (3-42) and Godwin (7-117-1) -- but accounted for both Tampa touchdowns in last year's game, running for an 11-yard TD in the third quarter for the decisive final margin. He was sacked five times, threw an interception and lost one of his two fumbles.
Where Mayfield might be throwing the ball on Monday is unclear if Evans can't go.
Rachaad White, the starter in Irving's place the past two weeks, had 10 carries for 18 yards and one reception for five yards in the 2024 matchup with the Lions.
In Detroit, health issues are hitting the secondary for the second season in a row.
Lions safety Kerby Joseph, the NFL leader with nine interceptions in 2024, has separate knee injuries that kept him from finishing last week's game. Head coach Dan Campbell said the Lions are "reassessing" whether Joseph should rest instead of playing at well under 100 percent on Monday. The other starting safety, Brian Branch, is out this week serving a suspension for triggering a brief fracas at the end of the Lions' loss to the Chiefs on Sunday night.
Cornerback Terrion Arnold (shoulder) and D.J. Reed (hamstring) remain on injured reserve and fill-in Avonte Maddox is dealing with a hamstring injury.
Bucs head coach Todd Bowles has indicated all along the team plans to be extremely cautious with Evans. The 32-year-old also missed three games with a hamstring injury last season and has a history of hamstring ailments during his 12-year career.
He had just four catches for 33 yards against the Jets but did grab his 106th career touchdown reception. He stands ninth in NFL history.
The six-time Pro Bowler is the lone receiver in NFL history to begin a career with 11 straight 1,000-yard seasons. He is also tied with the legendary Jerry Rice (1986-96) for the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons at any point of a career.
Evans is averaging a career-worst 5.0 yards per target this season. He had only 140 receiving yards through three games so an extended absence could put the streak in jeopardy.
However, Evans had just 335 yards in seven games last season when he was sidelined. He returned to action in late November for Tampa Bay's 11th game and racked up 669 yards in seven games to end the regular season with 1,004.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren rushed for 127 yards on 16 carries during Thursday's Week 7 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals. He also caught four of his five targets for an additional 31 receiving yards. Although Warren wasn't able to find the end zone on Thursday night, he still had a terrific performance with 7.94 yards per carry and a significant impact in the passing game. His efficiency likely peaked thanks to his matchup against a Bengals defensive line sans Trey Hendrickson (hip), but he still has a favorable fantasy outlook heading into Week 8 against the Green Bay Packers. He continues to rank as a steady RB2 option in fantasy football.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins caught six of his 10 targets for 96 yards and a touchdown during Thursday's Week 7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 26-year-old is enjoying some newfound success after struggling to form a rapport with Jake Browning earlier in the year. He has looked much better in two games with Joe Flacco as his quarterback, totaling 11 catches, 158 yards, and one touchdown during that span. Flacco appears poised to remain the Bengals' quarterback for the duration of Joe Burrow's (toe) absence, which is great news for Higgins, Ja'Marr Chase, and their fantasy managers. Higgins will continue to operate behind Chase in the pecking order, but he still has standalone value as a low-end WR2 for Week 8 against the Jets.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers completed 23 of his 34 pass attempts for 249 yards, four touchdowns, and two interceptions during Thursday's Week 7 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals. He also rushed for six yards and didn't take a sack. The four touchdowns worked wonders as Rodgers attempted to mount a late comeback on national television, but you could also argue that his two interceptions were the difference between a win and a loss in Cincinnati. One of the two turnovers wasn't exactly Rodgers' fault as his sideline pass was ripped out of DK Metcalf's hands, but the other came on an overthrown pass that the veteran quarterback would have loved to get back. With that being said, fantasy managers won't gripe too much about the two turnovers, as his four touchdowns were more than enough to boost his point total. He's a solid mid-range QB2 heading into Week 8 against the Green Bay Packers.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth caught four of his five targets for 111 yards and two touchdowns during Thursday's Week 7 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals. His touchdowns came on 19-yard and 68-yard receptions, the latter of which gave Pittsburgh a late lead (that they would ultimately relinquish). Freiermuth had not yet posted a fantasy performance with more than 6.1 fantasy points this season (PPR), so Thursday's breakout was admittedly unexpected. It should give fantasy managers optimism moving forward, but there's no denying that the 26-year-old continues to face competition at the tight end position. Fellow tight ends Jonnu Smith and Darnell Washington each scored touchdowns on Thursday night, too, offering Aaron Rodgers plenty of options when he's looking to target big, physical receivers in the passing game. As a result, managers should view Freiermuth as a low-end TE2 for Week 8.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco completed 31 of his 47 pass attempts for 342 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions during Thursday's Week 7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also took two sacks. Just nine days removed from his trade to Cincinnati and three weeks removed from his benching in Cleveland, the veteran quarterback showed flashbacks to the peak of his career back in the 2010s. This was Flacco's first performance with three passing touchdowns and zero turnovers since Week 1 of the 2018 season. Perhaps most impressive -- beyond the fact that Flacco dug Cincinnati out of a multiple-possession deficit -- was the veteran quarterback posting such a good performance despite a matchup against a talented Pittsburgh Steelers defense. He didn't let T.J. Watt fluster him, nor did he have much trouble keeping the ball away from a solid secondary. Flacco has shown upside in years past, but he seems to have unlocked a whole new ceiling with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins at his disposal. He'll vault into the high-end QB2 range for Week 8 against the New York Jets.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase caught 16 of his 23 targets for 161 yards and one touchdown during Thursday's Week 7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The superstar receiver posted career-highs in targets and receptions as the Bengals mounted a comeback victory on national television. After facing some growing pains with Jake Browning under center, Chase has returned to elite form while catching passes from Joe Flacco. In his two games with the veteran quarterback, he has totaled 26 catches, 255 yards, and a pair of touchdowns. Flacco has shown that he is capable of airing out the football, keeping the Bengals in close games, and limiting turnovers. All three of these factors bode well for Chase going forward, as he's firmly back in the high-end WR1 mix ahead of Week 8 against the Jets.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase caught 16 of his 23 targets for 161 yards and one touchdown during Thursday's Week 7 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The superstar receiver posted career-highs in targets and receptions as the Bengals mounted a comeback victory on national television. After facing some growing pains with Jake Browning under center, Chase has returned to elite form while catching passes from Joe Flacco. In his two games with the veteran quarterback, he has totaled 26 catches, 255 yards, and a pair of touchdowns. Flacco has shown that he is capable of airing out the football, keeping the Bengals in close games, and limiting turnovers. All three of these factors bode well for Chase going forward, as he's firmly back in the high-end WR1 mix ahead of Week 8 against the Jets.
From RotoBaller
While it's unlike the Cincinnati Bengals to hold a fire sale, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that All-Pro pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson (hip) is likely to be a trade chip as this year's deadline approaches. Hendrickson suffered a hip injury in the Week 6 loss to the Green Bay Packers and was inactive for Thursday night's divisional clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it's not a long-term injury after his MRI exam came back clean. Rapoport was told that the Bengals would be seeking a young player who could help them this year and into the future, and a future mid-round pick, although it's unclear if the team is actually willing to trade Hendrickson. The veteran pass-rusher is coming off back-to-back seasons of 17.5 sacks, so he would immediately be a huge boost to any pass rush if he were dealt midseason, similar to Micah Parsons' impact in Green Bay.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (toe), who suffered a serious turf-toe injury back in Week 2, is on track to return from Injured Reserve in mid-December, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Burrow is a month into a three-month recovery after having surgery for a Grade 3 turf-toe injury. Burrow has been doing well in his rehab and has not had any setbacks, which means he's still in play to return at the tail end of the regular season if the Bengals still have something to play for. He has told people he has every intention of playing again this year, but he just needs Cincinnati to stay in the hunt in the meantime. The 28-year-old isn't guaranteed to be in play for the fantasy playoffs, so managers shouldn't feel obligated to hold onto him in redraft leagues. Jake Browning struggled with turnovers (eight picks in four games) after replacing Burrow, leading Cincy to trade for veteran Joe Flacco to try and keep the team's playoff hopes alive.
From RotoBaller
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (hamstring), who has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury, is expected to return when the Ravens come off their bye in Week 7 to face the Chicago Bears in Week 8, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Jackson will have three weeks of rest, so he should be a full-go when the team comes off their bye to face Chicago. The 28-year-old two-time MVP has gone 1-3 in his four starts in 2025, but he does lead the league with a 10.5 touchdown percentage, a 10.78 adjusted yards gained per pass attempt, and a 130.5 QB rating. While this may end up being a lost season for the Ravens, Jackson still has the ability to carry fantasy football teams once he's back from his hamstring injury. The elite dual-threat signal-caller needs to be back in all starting fantasy lineups if he's active in Week 8, which is expected.
From RotoBaller
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports that there is "real concern" that Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) will be forced to miss a fourth straight game with a quad injury that he suffered back in Week 3. McLaurin returned to a limited practice on Wednesday, but he was downgraded to a DNP on Thursday, putting his status in doubt for Sunday's divisional game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. It's unclear if the Commanders gave the 30-year-old a maintenance day on Thursday, but typically, mid-week downgrades aren't a good sign. Meanwhile, Deebo Samuel Sr. (heel) has yet to practice this week and might be in danger of missing Sunday's game as well. Noah Brown (groin, knee) was put on Injured Reserve this week, so the Commanders signed former Titans first-rounder Treylon Burks to their practice squad. It's possible that Luke McCaffrey, rookie Jaylin Lane, and Chris Moore could start in three-wide sets against Dallas if both McLaurin and Samuel cannot play.
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (illness) was limited in practice again on Thursday as he works toward being cleared for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals. Jacobs has handled a heavy workload this season, logging 98 carries for 359 yards and six touchdowns while averaging 3.7 yards per attempt. Although his efficiency has dipped compared to his Pro Bowl 2024 campaign, Jacobs remains the clear lead back in Green Bay's offense, handling the vast majority of touches out of the backfield. The Cardinals present a middle-of-the-pack matchup, allowing 102 rushing yards per game, which ranks 13th in the NFL. Assuming Jacobs suits up, he should continue to see volume-driven RB2 production, though fantasy managers may want to temper expectations if his illness limits his workload heading into Sunday.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (hamstring) missed his second consecutive practice on Thursday, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday's matchup against the Denver Broncos. With Malik Nabers (knee) already out for the season, Slayton's absence would further deplete the Giants' receiving corps. In that scenario, Wan'Dale Robinson would be positioned to handle a heavy target load, while Jalin Hyatt could see a significant uptick in snaps and opportunities. Hyatt caught three of five targets for 17 yards in Week 6 and would remain a risky deep-league dart throw if pressed into action. The Giants offense has shown signs of life recently, but fantasy managers should view Robinson as the only trustworthy option in this passing game heading into Week 7.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) remained a limited participant in Thursday's practice as he works his way back from the turf toe injury he suffered in Week 1. The 49ers have managed a 4-2 record in his absence, with veteran backup Mac Jones (knee, oblique) handling starting duties. While Purdy is unlikely to return in Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons, his continued presence at practice is a positive sign for his recovery timeline. The 49ers are expected to remain cautious with their young signal-caller, but the door appears open for a potential return in the coming weeks. Fantasy managers in superflex and two-quarterback formats should keep Purdy stashed, as his upside in a talented San Francisco offense makes him a valuable asset once he's back to full strength.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle, rib, shoulder) has been limited in practice all week but is trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Atlanta Falcons. The veteran wideout has battled multiple injuries this season, appearing in just four games while totaling 10 receptions for 136 yards and a touchdown. With the 49ers offense still dealing with several key absences, quarterback Mac Jones will need all available weapons against the league's top-ranked pass defense -- one that just stifled Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills. Jennings' potential return would provide a much-needed boost to San Francisco's depth at receiver, though his fantasy value remains limited unless he begins to see a larger target share. For now, Jennings is best viewed as a deep-league stash or DFS dart throw in Week 7.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave (hip) was upgraded to a full participant in Thursday's practice after being limited the day before, putting him on track to play Sunday against the Chicago Bears. The third-year wideout has maintained WR1 status in New Orleans with a commanding 32.3% target share, turning 39 receptions into 342 yards and a touchdown through six games. While quarterback Spencer Rattler has struggled with consistency, Olave continues to command double-digit targets nearly every week. His 60.9% catch rate highlights some inefficiency in the Saints' passing attack, but the sheer volume keeps Olave firmly in must-start territory for fantasy managers. Against a Bears defense allowing over 213 passing yards per game, Olave should remain the focal point of the Saints' offense and carries a solid WR2 floor with WR1 upside if the offense finds rhythm.
From RotoBaller
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (hip) has been ruled out for Thursday night's matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, dealing a major blow to an already struggling defensive unit. Hendrickson leads the Bengals in sacks (4) this season, and his absence will make it even tougher for Cincinnati's defense -- currently ranked 31st in the league -- to contain a rejuvenated Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers offense. Without their top pass-rusher, the Bengals' ability to generate pressure and limit big plays takes a significant hit. Fantasy managers should steer clear of starting the Bengals defense in Week 7, as they'll face an uphill battle as they host a divisional rival finding its offensive rhythm.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (calf) was added to the team's injury report on Thursday and is expected to miss at least the next couple of weeks. The veteran wideout's absence is another setback for a 49ers offense already dealing with multiple injuries across the roster. Fortunately, tight end George Kittle (hamstring) is trending toward returning this week, providing quarterback Mac Jones with a much-needed security blanket in the passing game. Without MVS, expect to see a heavy dose of Kittle along with Kendrick Bourne and Jauan Jennings in the passing game while utilizing a run-heavy approach against the Atlanta Falcons. With the Falcons boasting the league's top-ranked defense, fantasy managers should temper expectations for all 49ers pass-catchers until the offense gets back to full strength.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (hamstring), who is currently on Injured Reserve due to a hamstring injury he suffered in the season opener, said he plans to play this Sunday night against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7. The Niners designated the 32-year-old to return from IR this week, which means the team now has 21 days to officially activate him. In his return to practice on Wednesday, Kittle was limited, and he maintained that practice status on Thursday. Despite suffering a full tear of his hamstring in Week 1, Kittle is back to full health and is hoping to make his return this weekend. It's unclear if the coaching staff feels the same way yet, but we should have our answer by Saturday, when the Niners will need to activate Kittle from IR if they intend to play him on Sunday. Despite the layoff, Kittle will be back on the TE1 radar immediately if he returns to action against Atlanta.
From RotoBaller
Former Tennessee Titans first-round wide receiver Treylon Burks is expected to sign with the Washington Commanders' practice squad, sources tell Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Burks is a low-risk, high-reward addition who played in a similar offense in college to the one that Kliff Kingsbury is running in D.C., and he could be elevated quickly to Washington's active 53-man roster. Before visiting with the Commanders, Burks had a meeting with the Denver Broncos this week. The Commanders' impending addition of Burks speaks to their need for WR depth, with both Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Deebo Samuel Sr. (heel) potentially missing the Week 7 game against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys this Sunday. Noah Brown (groin, knee) was also put on Injured Reserve this week. Burks is an interesting addition, but he'll be behind Luke McCaffrey, rookie Jaylin Lane, and Chris Moore if McLaurin and Samuel cannot play.
From RotoBaller