Fantasy Football Preseason Updates: Injury Concerns and Emerging Stars

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02/08/2024 20h19

In the lead-up to the fantasy football season, several key developments have caught the attention of avid players. From injury concerns to emerging stars, here's a roundup of some significant news from training camps that could impact your draft strategy.

12. Cooper Kupp's Return to Full Health:
Los Angeles Rams' wide receiver Cooper Kupp battled through injuries last season, playing with both an ankle and hamstring issue. Despite this, he still managed to deliver top-20 fantasy production in the nine games he completed. Now, in Rams camp, Kupp appears to be fully healthy and could be a valuable pick in the fourth round of drafts.

11. WR Roman Wilson's Week-to-Week Ankle Injury:
Pittsburgh Steelers' third-round pick, wide receiver Roman Wilson, was eyeing a potential starting role in the team's receiving corps. However, a recent ankle injury suffered in practice has left him sidelined and his availability for Week 1 uncertain. This injury opens up opportunities for players like Calvin Austin and Van Jefferson, who are vying for the WR2 role. Additionally, tight end Pat Freiermuth has been impressing in camp and may also benefit from Wilson's absence.

10. Justin Herbert's Foot Injury:
Los Angeles Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a foot injury during camp that is expected to keep him out for the rest of preseason. While the team remains hopeful that he will be ready for Week 1, skepticism looms due to Coach Jim Harbaugh's vague injury updates. Herbert's injury limits his chances of building chemistry with his new pass-catching group, including rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey.

9. D'Onta Foreman's Neck Injury:
Cleveland Browns' veteran running back D'Onta Foreman was carted off the field with a neck injury. While the severity of the injury is still unknown, it puts a question mark on Foreman's availability for Week 1. With Nick Chubb also expected to be sidelined for the season opener, third-year back Jerome Ford may see an increased workload against the Kansas City Chiefs.

8. Theo Johnson Pushing for TE Starter Role:
New York Giants' rookie tight end Theo Johnson has made an impact in camp after returning from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The athletic rookie has been seeing first-team snaps and is pushing veteran Daniel Bellinger for the starting tight end position. While rookie tight ends typically face challenges in fantasy, Johnson's opportunities within the Giants' playmaker-deprived offense make him a player to watch.

7. Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, and Josh Reynolds Named Broncos' Starting Receivers:
According to Broncos' insider Benjamin Allbright, the team's starting wide receivers in camp have been identified as Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, and Josh Reynolds. This development positions Mims as a late-round target for fantasy owners. Despite his limited rookie sample size, he led the league in yards per reception, showcasing his big-play potential.

6. Titans' Focused on Increased Passing Game:
The Tennessee Titans' new coach, Brian Callahan, has emphasized a more pass-heavy offense this season. The recent injury to wide receiver Hopkins adds further uncertainty, indicating a potential decline in his fantasy value. However, it presents an opportunity for players like Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, who were signed to bolster the Titans' receiving corps.

5. Romeo Doubs Shines as Packers' Standout Receiver:
While the spotlight has been on other receivers in the offseason, veteran Romeo Doubs has emerged as a standout performer in Green Bay Packers' camp. Though he may not consistently be the number one option, Doubs' solid performances confirm that there will be rotation among the Packers' receiving corps. Consider Doubs as a potential late-round steal in fantasy drafts.

4. Javonte Williams Establishes Clear RB1 Status in Broncos Camp:
Contrary to rumors suggesting he could be cut, Javonte Williams has impressively solidified his position as the Denver Broncos' RB1 in training camp, as confirmed by Benjamin Allbright. With two years since his knee injury and positive signs in terms of weight loss, Williams has the potential to be a valuable mid-round pick in fantasy drafts.

3. Ja'Lynn Polk Stands Out as Patriots' Best Receiver:
As the New England Patriots prepare for the upcoming season, rookie wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk has garnered attention as the team's most reliable receiver in camp. Polk's productivity at all levels of the field in college, along with his exceptional catching ability, makes him an intriguing late-round prospect for fantasy managers.

2. RB Chase Brown Earns More First-Team Snaps for Bengals:
Chase Brown, a running back for the Cincinnati Bengals, has been earning increased first-team reps during camp. Brown, known for his athleticism, pass-catching ability, and impressive college performances, is on track for a significant role alongside Zack Moss in the Bengals' backfield. As long as he proves his worth in pass protection, Brown has the potential to be a late-round steal with league-winning upside.

1. Rookie Ladd McConkey Shines as Chargers' Top Receiver in Camp:
Rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey has quickly become a favorite target of Chargers' quarterback Justin Herbert during camp. The Chargers traded up in the second round of the NFL Draft to acquire McConkey, who showcased his efficiency and versatility in college. With an opportunity for increased targets in the absence of Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Austin Ekeler, McConkey is a rising talent to consider in the middle rounds of fantasy drafts.

As the fantasy football season approaches, staying up to date with these developments can give managers an edge in drafting their winning teams. Keep an eye on these players as they navigate training camps and preseason action.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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