49ers running back Isaac Guerendo is dealing with a hamstring injury. Here are the latest updates.
The San Francisco 49ers can’t catch a break in their offensive backfield.
It started in training camp when running back Christian McCaffrey was shut down with what turned out to be Achilles tendinitis. RB Elijah Mitchell was also placed on season-ending IR in August with a hamstring issue.
RB Jordan Mason filled in admirably to start the year, but he was hit with a shoulder injury in Week 6 that he battled until McCaffrey’s return in Week 10. McCaffrey and Mason were both hurt in a Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills, which pushed rookie fourth-round pick RB Isaac Guerendo into the starting role.
Guerendo hurt his foot in Week 14, but played in Week 15 where he sustained a hamstring injury.
Isaac Guerendo injury update
Guerendo has been ruled out for Week 16 against the Miami Dolphins. He dealt with a hamstring injury in training camp that cost him most of camp and the first two preseason games. Head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated early in the week that Guerendo was a longshot to play. After not practicing all week he was listed as ‘out’ on the official injury report.
How long will Isaac Guerendo be out?
It’s unclear how long Guerendo’s absence will be. He showed promise in the reps he get as the 49ers’ primary RB, but the coaching staff will likely want to see more in-game opportunities for him in his rookie season. That doesn’t mean they’ll rush him into action, though. With three games left and nothing on the line there’s no real reason to risk a longer-term injury that may impact him into 2025.
49ers RB depth chart
Shanahan on Friday said veteran RB Patrick Taylor would ‘most likely’ get the starting role in Miami. Behind him on the active roster is Israel Abanikanda. Ke’Shawn Vaughn is on the practice squad and could be either elevated or promoted Saturday. If Vaughn is promoted to the active roster it would come with a corresponding move to clear a roster spot.
QB Patrick Mahomes – Ankle
QB Tommy DeVito – Concussion
QB Justin Fields – Abdomen
QB Geno Smith – Ankle
WR Jaylen Waddle – Knee
RB Braelon Allen – Back
RB Trey Benson – Ankle
RB Nick Chubb – Fractured foot
RB Alvin Kamara – Groin
RB Jaleel McLaughlin – Quad
TE Zach Ertz – Concussion
WR Alec Pierce – Concussion
WR A.J. Brown – Ankle
Chasing Ambulances
QB Patrick Mahomes – He was tackled with his legs trapped below him while being bent awkwardly backward. He was X-rayed and there were no breaks, but he will receive an MRI on Monday to determine the severity of his injury. His ankle was reported and there is speculation that it may also involve his knee. He was initially considered week-to-week. Carson Wentz will be the starter for any games that Mahomes misses.
WR Jaylen Waddle – The Miami receiver left in the second quarter when he was blocking and had a defender roll up on his legs. He already had a hamstring issue last week but the severity of the knee injury will be known on Monday after an MRI.
RB Nick Chubb – Suffered a fractured foot and will miss the rest of the season. Jerome Ford will resume being the primary running back for the final three weeks of the season.
RB Alvin Kamara – He left in the fourth quarter of the loss to the Commanders and did not return. The injury was reported to be to the groin but there was speculation that it may be a hamstring injury. He will receive an MRI to determine the severity of the injury. Kendre Miller and Jamaal Williams will handle the backfield for any time Kamara misses, with Miller the likely primary back.
QB Geno Smith – He suffered an ankle injury when a defender dove at his lower legs and his feet were caught awkwardly beneath him. It was the late game on Sunday, so not much information was immediately known but it appeared to be very painful and could extend into next week or beyond. Sam Howell took over and completed only 5-of14 for 24 yards and one interception. The Seahawks are still tied for the NFC West lead but without a healthy Smith, their post-season prospects take a major hit.
WR A.J. Brown – His ankle twisted when he was dragged down by a defender and while he did not leave the game, it was looked at on the sideline and he said in the post-game that he thought it would by okay.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
WR Jalen Coker – The Carolina undrafted rookie led the team with four catches for 101 yards, including an 83-yard touchdown catch. Adam Thielen (5-51) was also effective versus the Cowboys but Coker is outplaying the drafted Xavier Legette (2-7).
WR Xavier Worthy – We’ll see how the passing in Kansas City shakes out if Patrick Mahomes misses time, but the rookie Worthy led the Chiefs with six catches for 46 yards. He fielded 11 targets, three more than Travis Kelce (4-27). He also ran in a 21-yard touchdown.
RB Jerome Ford – The Browns are back to Ford as the starting running back with Nick Chubb back on injured reserve. Ford ran for 84 yards on seven carries, including a 62-yard run for a third-quarter touchdown. He also caught two passes for 20 yards. Ford should handle the primary workload and D’Onta Foreman should be active on game days again.
TE Brenton Strange -The Jaguars placed Evan Engram on injured reserve last week, and Strange was promoted to the starting tight end. While he had been catching one pass weekly, he stepped up to 11 receptions for 73 yards against the Jets. That was not only his best game of the year, but it was better than any that Engram turned in.
RB Kendre Miller – In Week 14, Miller scored the Saints’ first rushing touchdown in eight games when he ran for 32 yards on ten carries. On Sunday, he ran for 46 yards on nine carries and ended the game covering for the injured Alvin Kamara. Miller hasn’t caught either of his targets since returning two weeks ago, but he was already splitting the rushing with Kamara. The Saints play in Green Bay this week and they’ll look to run as much as they can. Kamara signed an extension and will be back next year, but Miller is working on forming a tandem with Kamara next year.
RB Tyjae Spears – Tony Pollard was questionable for the Bengals game but was active and rushed 17 times for 45 yards and one score. But he had no passes for the first time this season. Tyjae Spears not only rushed in a score on his four carries for five yards, but he also scored on his six catches for 87 yards. Spears had not totaled six catches over his five previous games, so it was a major change, coupled with removing Pollard from the pass equation.
WR Jalen McMillan—The Buccaneers’ fourth-round pick, McMillan already caught four passes for 59 yards and two scores in Week 14 versus the Raiders. On Sunday, he proved that wasn’t an aberration but a start to his career when he gained 75 yards on five catches with another touchdown. He’ll play in Dallas this week with a chance for the hat trick.
Beware the Eagles – The Steelers committed to stopping Saquon Barkley and had success. They limited him to only 65 yards on 19 carries, and he caught just two passes for nine yards for his second-worst game as an Eagle – just in time for fantasy playoffs, no less. But Jaylen Hurts, and their passing game had been criticized. So without the run owning the game, Hurts passed for 290 yards and two touchdowns against a Top-5 pass defense. And A.J. Brown (8-110, TD) and DeVonta Smith (11-109, TD) had their best performances of the year.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Davante Adams (NYJ) – His season hasn’t met expectations, but when the Jets faced the staggering Jaguars, it was vintage Aaron Rodgers to Davante Adams. He led all NFL players in fantasy points when he caught nine passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. His 71-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter helped the Jets to remain ahead of the Jags. And just in time for fantasy playoffs!
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
QB Trevor Lawrence – Concussion
RB Christian McCaffrey – Knee
WR Ladd McConkey – Knee
WR Noah Brown – Rib
WR Calvin Austin – Head
WR Rashod Bateman – Knee
TE Taysom Hill – Knee
Chasing Ambulances
QB Trevor Lawrence – He was in the process of sliding down when the Texans’ defender hit him in the head which caused his head to snap back into the turf.He appeared to be temporarily unconscious but managed to get up and sit in the cart. He was already questionable to play with a shoulder injury and now has a concussion. Mac Jones is likely the starter this week at the Titans.
WR Ladd McConkey– He was tackled with his legs awkwardly bent underneath him and limped off. He’s been dinged up this year with a balky hip and a sore shoulder but had aseason-best nine catches for 117 yards in the win over the Falcons. No early word was given about the severity, so expect to hear more after Monday.
TE Taysom Hill – A week after his career-best game, Hill (5-37) was the leading receiver for the Saints in their loss to the Rams. He went down with a knee injury that will be examined on Monday, but early speculation is that he likely tore ligaments or at least has a bone bruise. He’s probably gone for the rest of the season in either of those cases. An MRI will determine what the damage is.
RB Christian McCaffrey– He looked great for the first quarter in Buffalo, gaining 53 yards on seven carries, but he went down untouched in the San Francisco backfield after being tossed the ball. He’ll get an MRI on his knee but a non-contact knee injury is never good news. More should be known on Monday. Jordan Mason took over once McCaffrey left and would be the primary back again if needed.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
QB Drew Lock – While the Giants lost to the Cowboys last Thursday, Drew Lock took his first start and threw for 178 yards and one interception that was returned for a critical touchdown. Lock also ran for 57 yards and a score on just four scampers. He kept Malik Nabers (8-69) still worthy of a fantasy start.
RB Raheem Mostert– He had nearly disappeared from the game plan for most of the season, but Mostert showed up against the Packers with five rushes for 19 yards to lead the backfield. De’Von Achane only ran for 14 yards on seven rushes. Mostert added two catches for 15 yards. He still fell below fantasy startability, but at least he’s back in the box score.
TE Jonnu Smith – His career-best season continues with a team-leading ten catches for 113 yards in the loss to the Packers. That was four more catches than Tyreek Hill. Tagovailoa has been throwing shorter routes since he returned from his most recent concussion, and it has directly benefitted Smith.
RB Isiah Pacheco – His first game back since breaking his leg in Week 2, Pacheco ran well with seven rushes for 44 yards, though 34 yards came on one carry. But that compared to Kareem Hunt’s seven carries for only 15 yards. Pacheco added a five-yard catch as well. The Kansas City backfield likely remains a committee to help keep Pacheco healthy for the playoffs, but he’s justified a starting role in fantasy lineups after owners waited a long time. The problem is that Hunt is still involved, but becomes a very risky consideration.
QB Aidan O’Connell – The newest starting quarterback for the Raiders passed for 340 yards and two touchdowns in Kansas City last Friday and connected well with the only two Raiders who have fantasy value – Brock Bowers (10-140, TD) and Jakobi Meyers (6-97). He’ll play in Tampa Bay against a far weaker secondary this weekend.
RB Sincere McCormick – The Raiders’ undrafted rookie gained 33 yards on five carries in Week 12, and then led the backfield against the Chiefs with 12 rushes for 64 yards versus the No. 1 defense against running backs. He’ll face the No. 26 defense in Tampa Bay this week.
Chargers Backfield – J.K. Dobbins landed on injured reserve after a productive season that lasted longer than usual. The new backfield was little used but still effective with Gus Edwards (6-32) and Kimani Vidal (4-20). Edwards had just one catch on the only pass thrown to a running back. Edwards has been a plodder this year, but the rookie Vidal deserves to be on fantasy rosters. The Bolts host the Bills this week and their only defensive weakness is against running backs.
QB Russell Wilson – The Steelers-Ravens tilt turned into a shootout, and Russell Wilson continues to reinvent his career with 414 passing yards and three touchdowns in Cincinnati. He hit ten different receivers, and none gained more than 74 yards.
QB Mac Jones – Entered the loss to the Texans after Trevor Lawrence was concussed. He threw for 235 yards and two scores in little over two quarters to bring the Jaguars to within three points. He is likely to start again this week at Tennessee and potentially even longer, depending on how quickly Lawrence recovers.
RB Antonio Gibson – The Patriots rely on Rhamondre Stevenson as the primary running back, but Gibson is seeing an increase in touches lately. After six runs for 31 yards and a 14-yard catch in Week 12 in Miami, he logged seven rushes for 62 yards and a touchdown on Sunday versus the Colts. Stevenson still ran the ball 18 times for 73 yards, but Gibson was allowed the score and played a bigger role than in the past.
RB Chris Rodriguez – Austin Ekeler landed on injured reserve and Washington used two players to replace him. Jeremy McNichols (6-32) and Chris Rodriguez (13-94, TD) both saw use in the 19-42 beatdown of the Titans. But Rodriguez showed up at the start of the fourth quarter, so his big day was entirely during the ample trash time in the game. McNichols saw most of his use in the first half.
RB Bucky Irving – The Buccaneers rookie took over the backfield a few weeks ago and just posted his first 100-yard game when he ran for 152 yards and a touchdown with three catches for 33 yards. Rachaad White ran for 76 yards on 11 carries, but Irving was used less near the end of the game as he had injured his hip but played through it.
QB Bryce Young – The Panthers have shown grit and heart continuing to play well despite their 3-9 record. They brought the Buccaneers into overtime before losing 26-23. Young played well, throwing for 298 yards and one score, and rushing for 17 yards and a touchdown. He’s looking much better.
RB Blake Corum – There have been plenty of questions from fans and the media about why the Rams rarely use their prized rookie running back Blake Corum who only ran once in Week 12 versus 16 carries by Kyren Williams. Playing at the Saints this week, Corum handled eight rushes for 42 yards versus 15 runs for 104 yards by Williams, who also scored once. That’s still short of being a fantasy option, but it is encouraging to see them ramp up his usage and gives more confidence if Williams was to be injured, which happened last year but not yet for 2024.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Brock Bowers (LV) – The Raiders’ rookie has far exceeded all expoectations and wasted no time in being the No. 1 fantasy tight end – and he just gets better and widens the gap below him. Against the Chiefs, the Raiders lost but Bowers turned in 10 catches for 140 yards and a touchdown. He was drafted this summer as a backup and became the premier tight end.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Tunnel Vision – fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Jaylen Daniels
275-74
3
Patrick Mahomes
269-60
3
Tua Tagovailoa
317-(-2)
4
Caleb Williams
340-33
2
Sam Darnold
330-(-1)
2
Running Backs
Yards
TD
Josh Jacobs
26-106
3
Bucky Irving
12-87
6-64
1
Jahmyr Gibbs
21-90
3-9
2
Tony Pollard
24-119
3-10
1
Saquon Barkley
26-255
4-47
2
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Jordan Addison
8-162
1
Courtland Sutton
8-97
2
Jaylen Waddle
8-144
1
D.J. Moore
7-106
1
Keenan Allen
9-86
1
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Trey Mcbride
12-133
0
Jonnu Smith
9-87
1
Noah Gray
4-66
2
George Kittle
6-82
1
T.J. Hockenson
7-114
0
Placekickers
XP
FG
Will Lutz
2
5
Daniel Carlson
1
4
Eddy Pineiro
1
4
Nick Folk
3
3
Jake Elliott
4
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Cowboys
4-3
2
Seahawks
5-1
1
Texans
8-3
1
Dolphins
4-2
0
Buccaneers
4-1
0
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
QB Gardner Minshew – Collar bone
RB Brian Robinson – Ankle
RB David Montgomery – Shoulder
RB Austin Ekeler – Head
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders – Neck
WR Josh Downs – Shoulder
WR Romeo Doubs – Concussion
Chasing Ambulances
RB Brian Robinson – The Commander’s back appeared to have a serious ankle injury when he was tackled on his first carry but was able to walk off. He returned for four carries and one catch but was then ruled out of the game near the end of the second quarter. His status for this week will be determined later in the week.
RB Austin Ekeler—He returned the final kickoff and was flattened in the process. He appeared to be temporarily unconscious but was eventually able to walk off the field, though he looked groggy. The expectation is that he had a concussion, and he went to a local hospital for observation.
RB David Montgomery– He caught a screen pass and gained 14 yards when injured. He did not appear to be hit that hard and he did not show any signs of pain, but he pulled himself out of the game and did not return. His status for this week versus the Bears will be determined later.
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders – The Panthers’ rookie tight end landed on his head and appeared to jam his neck as well. He went to the hospital but was discharged shortly after. The early expectation is that he’ll miss the game against the Buccaneers this week.
WR Josh Downs – The Colts’ slot receiver went down with a shoulder injury on a seven-yard catch in the fourth quarter and did not return. Downs is also the punt returner for the Colts, so he’ll have two roles to replace this week in New England if he cannot play.
QB Gardner Minshew – The Raiders quarterback was knocked from the loss to the Broncos late in the game andDesmond Ridder had to finish. Early speculation is that he has a broken collarbone and is lost for the season. That will likely mean that Ridder will get the start, but playing in Kansas City will not likely be productive.
WR Romeo Doubs – Suffered a concussion on an incompletion. That’s a bigger problem because the Packers play on Thursday, and there is not expected to be enough time for Doubs to get through the concussion protocol. Dontayvion Wicks or Bo Melton would help to replace him.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
RB Jonathan Brooks – The Panthers’ second-round pick made his NFL debut a short 12 weeks into the season. The ex-Longhorn only ran twice and gained seven yards, while Chuba Hubbard still shouldered the primary workload with 16 carries for 58 yards and one score. It was just the first game for Brooks after recovering from his knee injury of last year, but it also suggests that we may never see Brooks with a full-time load this year, and it would not make sense to leave him open to injury much with Hubbard already effective as the running back.
TE Noah Gray – He’s spent his time in Kansas City being “not Travis” and it was a surprise when he collected four passes for 23 yards and two scores in the loss to the Bills in Week 11 while Kelce only managed one catch. Against the Panthers, Kelce was better with six catches for 62 yards but Gray repeated his previous week when he caught four more passes for 66 yards and two more touchdowns. He’s scored four times in two weeks, while Kelce only totals two scores on the year. Patrick Mahomes finally has a full house for wide receivers and he’s thrown four of six touchdowns to Gray.
WR David Moore – The Panthers finally got Adam Thielen (3-57) back after missing the last nine weeks, but Bryce Young suddenly turned to Moore as the primary receiver, leading the team with ten targets and six catches for 81 yards and their lone passing touchdown. The Chiefs brought one of the better defenses to the game, but apparently not the sense that a trap game could almost happen. Moore only had 13 catches on the season and no previous scores, so he was just one of many “go-figure” players from Week 12.
TE T.J. Hockenson– He hasn’t been a huge factor since returning three weeks ago, but Hockenson blew up for seven catches for 114 yards in the win over the Bears. He’s heating up just in time to help fantasy owners reach their playoffs, and he’ll be playing the Cardinals, Falcons, and Bears again all at home.
QB Caleb Williams – Granted, the Bears will lose the game in the final minute even if it takes overtime, but at least the rookie quarterback finally threw a touchdown after four scoreless games saw him thrown onto many fantasy league waiver wires. But he passed for 340 yards and two touchdowns versus the Vikings, and that included DJ Moore (7-106, TD) and Keenan Allen (9-86, TD) who had also gone a month without a score or any notable yardage. His next three games are all on the road while facing the Lions, 49ers, and Vikings again. The need to throw will be high in each.
QB Anthony Richardson– He was already benched once this year for poor passing, and in Week 12, he only completed 11-of-28 for 172 yards in the loss to the Lions. He added 61 yards on 10 yards, but Michael Pittman (6-96) was the only receiver with more than three catches or 39 yards.
WR Jaylen Waddle – The Miami wideout had just one score on the year and one 100-yard game back in Week 1. Against the Patriots, Waddle posted eight catches for 144 yards and a score to lead the Fins. Nowif Tyreek Hill could only match that, since he’s not broken 100 yards since Week 1 as well.
QB Tommy DeVito – The Giants released Daniel Jones and went with DeVito instead of Drew Lock because he “gave us the best chance to win.” Apparently, it is still not a great chance because DeVito Part II only passed for 189 yards and no scores, while the passing stats fell off even worse than when Jones played. Worse yet, Tyrone Tracy Jr. was limited to only nine runs for 42 yards and caught four passes for 28 yards – all late in the game. And they not only lost 30-7, DeVito passed against one of the worst secondaries in the NFL.
RB Jaleel McLaughlin – The Denver backfield is always changing, and usually not for the best. Javonte Williams (8-(-2)) was a flop against the Raiders and gave way to McLaughlin (7-44) and Audric Estime (3-15) which is all to say there nothing reliable in the Denver backfield. Much less an actual touchdown.
RB Dylan Laube – Crafty waiver wire hounds snapped up Laube last week with the news that Alexander Mattison and Zamir White were out, but crafty waiver wire hounds are not always right. Laube returned a kick for 59 yards in the first quarter and never touched the ball again. Sincere McCormick was promoted from the practice squad and led the Raiders with five carries for 33 yards.
QB Brandon Allen– His first start in three years could have gone better. Allen passed for 199 yards and one score, but most of that went to George Kittle (6-82, TD), while Deebo Samuel (1-21) and Jauan Jennings (5-40) were the top wideouts. Even Christian McCaffrey was held to 31 rushing yards and three catches for 37 yards. Brock Purdy suggested he may be back next week in Buffalo, and they’ll need him to have a chance there.
Jordan Addison (MIN) – Justin Jefferson (2-27) was quiet against the Bears on Sunday, but mostly because Addison turned in a career-best performance with eight catches for 162 yards and one touchdown. Addison’s previous high yardage for the year was only 72 yards, and he caught a 69-yard touchdown to kick off his big day.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images
RB Saquon Barkley – You have to think he doesn’t miss New York much. Barkley Set a personal best when he ran for 255 yards on 26 carries with touchdowns from 70- and 72-yards. He also added four catches for 47 yards which all rolled up into 46.2 fantasy points in reception-point leagues. That’ll make a difference.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Jared Goff
421-21
4
Anthony Richardson
272-32
3
Bo Nix
307-5
4
Matthew Stafford
295-4
4
Joe Burrow
356-28
3
Running Backs
Yards
TD
Saquon Barkley
26-146
2-52
2
Breece Hall
16-78
7-43
2
David Montgomery
15-75
3-20
2
Josh Jacobs
18-76
4-58
1
De’Von Achane
17-73
4-32
1
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Amon-Ra St. Brown
11-161
2
Cooper Kupp
6-106
2
Jerry Jeudy
6-142
1
Tee Higgins
9-148
1
Ja’Marr Chase
7-75
2
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Taysom Hill
7-138
8-50
3
Brock Bowers
13-126
1
Jonnu Smith
6-101
2
David Njoku
9-81
0
Zach Ertz
6-47
1
Placekickers
XP
FG
Chris Boswell
0
6
Jake Bates
7
1
Jason Sanders
4
2
Joey Slye
1
3
Matt Gay
1
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Denver
4-1
0
Buffalo
2-2
0
Pittsburgh
2-3
0
Minnesota
5-1
0
LA Rams
3-2
0
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
How great is this short list?
RB Alexander Mattison – Ankle
RB Zamir White – Quad
RB Tyjae Spears – Head
WR Darnell Mooney – Hamstring
Chasing Ambulances
RB Alexander Mattison – Left the loss to the Dolphins after five carries and his status will be determined on Monday. The Raiders turned to Zamir White, who was lost with a quad injury. This is the No. 30 fantasy backfield, but it is notable when they lost their top two backs in the same game.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
WR Christian Watson – The oft-injured Watson turned in his annual big game, turning four catches into 150 yards in the win over the Bears. He caught passes for 17, 25, 48, and 60 yards. Before you grab your wallet and run to the waiver wire, that was roughly the same yardage he totaled from all games since Week 3. He managed that against a Bears secondary rated No. 3 versus wide receivers, so it was impressive. The question is whether it can be repeatable.
WR Brian Thomas Jr. – The Jaguars rookie led the team with five catches for 82 yards, though most of that came later in the humbling beatdown by the Lions. He was the only Jag with more than 30 yards in the game, and even with seven more games to play, the Jaguars looked like they were breaking camp and folding up the tents. Like Malik Nabers, we cannot know how good Thomas is while starting his career on a sinking ship.
HC Doug Pederson– Already expected to be on the chopping block, losing 52-6 should see him fired this week. The Jags will turn the team over to an interim coach and whoever that is, it cannot be any worse than what the Jags have become this season.
TE Brock Bowers – The Raiders may be yet another team in a slow-motion crash-and-burn, but the rookie tight end has been a saving grace, catching 13 passes for 126 yards and one touchdown versus the Dolphins.
RB Ameer Abdullah – While this backfield may not produce any fantasy-relevant numbers, injuries to Alexander Mattison (5-19) and Zamir White (5-9) were both injured in the loss to the Dolphins. Abdullah only ran once, but he caught three passes for 16 yards and a touchdown later in the game. Dylan Laube was a preseason sleeper who hasn’t been involved and was inactive last Sunday. But the Raiders may need to scrape their depth chart for running back help when the Broncos visit this week.
TE Jonnu Smith – The Dolphins have relied on tight ends as just blockers during the rein of HC Mike McDaniel, but Smith has been consistent with four or five catches per game. Facing the Raiders, he just turned in a career-best game with six catches for 101 yards and two touchdowns. The Miami offense has not thrown as well to their wideouts, but Smith has been the best tight end they’ve thrown to in years.
QB Jameis Winston – The Browns rushing offense appears to be on a permanent vacation this season, but Winston is posting surprising stats as their season swirls down the drain. He passed for 395 yards and two scores in their loss to the Saints and passed scores to Jerry Jeudy (6-142, TD) and Elijah Moore (6-66). Even David Njoku (9-81) turned in big stats. The Browns’ NFL season may be realistically over, but their fantasy output has been stronger with Winston as the starter.
QB Anthony Richardson – That two-week “think about it” vacation seemed to work. The second-year player faced the Jets in New York and left with a win and the best performance of his career. Richardson completed 20-of-30 for 272 yards and one touchdown pass, plus rushed for 32 yards and two scores on ten runs. The top three receivers were all the starting wideouts. He played noticeably better.
QB Russell Wilson – There was plenty of anticipation about what he could do versus the Ravens’ worst secondary in the NFL. Ends up not much, but just enough. The Steelers took the 16-18 win but Wilson only passed for 205 yards and one interception. George Pickens (8-89) shined, but no other receivers did. The Steelers’ defense played one of their best games of the year, and that depressed the needed scoring. However, the Steelers will continue to rely on their backfield and defense to win most games.
WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine – The Titan scored in five of the last six games but rarely has more than two receptions. He did it again against the Vikings with two catches for 117 yards, including a 98-yard touchdown catch. Calvin Ridley (4-58) provides the No. 1 wideout role but has just three touchdowns on the season.
QB Bo Nix – The Denver rookie is everything we hoped (from Caleb Williams) and totaled 13 touchdowns in the last seven games. He boosted that progress with a healthy 307-yard, four-touchdown effort in the win over the Falcons. Nix passed to ten different receivers and none had more than 78 yards. His development has already exceeded expectations.
RB Audric Estime / Javonte Williams – In Week 10, Javonte Williams was scaled back to only one rush and two catches, while the rookie Audric Estime ran a season-high 14 times for 53 yards, including five carries in the final drive that should have won the game (blocked field goal). The expectation was that the more effective rookie would take over the primary role but that was premature. Williams started the game with three carries in the opening drive, while Estime showed up for the second series. But Estime only gained 16 yards on six runs while Williams gained 59 yards on nine runs with one score. He also caught four passes for 28 yards compared to three receptions for nine yards from Estime. The bad news is that both runners are involved in the committee and limit each other. There is no good news.
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba– He was a disappointment as a rookie but certainly not a bust. He logged seven catches for 180 yards and two scores in Week 10, then led the Seahawks with ten receptions for 110 yards in the win over the 49ers. DK Metcalf (7-70) was back on Sunday, so Smith-Njigba’s recent success isn’t from a lack of options for Geno Smith.
WR Xavier Worthy – His four catches for 61 yards and a score paced the Chiefs in their loss to the Bills. Worthy also ran once for seven yards. The only real hole in the offense for the Chiefs is a lack of a top-flite wideout. DeAndre Hopkins (3-29) was ineffective versus the Bills defense, so any improvement from Worthy will make a difference.
RB Isiah Pacheco– He is expected to return for Week 12 after rehabbing his broken fibula and getting in practices last week. Kareem Hunt (14-60) may have just had his final game as the clear primary back, but it is highly unlikely he will stay on the sideline. The Chiefs play in Carolina and are coming off a loss, so there should be plenty of touches to share. For this week, anyway.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Taysom Hill (NO) – With Chris Olave out, the psuedo-tight end Hill has been worth around 50 yards per game but only scored once since Week 4. That level of production likely left him on many fantasy benches for Week 11 when he thrashed the Browns who had been rated as the No. 5 defense against tight ends. Hill ran for 138 yards on just seven carries with three touchdowns, plus caught eight passes for 50 yards. That was a career-high in catches, touchdowns, and rushing yards. He heads onto his bye, so he gets to enjoy this landmark game for two weeks.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
A look back at Sunday for fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Joe Burrow
428-3
4
Jalen Hurts
202-56
4
Kyler Murray
266-21
3
Lamar Jackson
290-33
4
Brock Purdy
353-17
2
Running Backs
Yards
TD
Bijan Robinson
20-116
3-28
2
Chuba Hubbard
28-153
4-16
1
Chase Brown
13-42
9-52
1
James Conner
12-33
5-80
1
Rachaad White
10-31
6-39
1
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Ja’Marr Chase
11-264
3
M Valdes-Scantling
3-109
2
Calvin Ridley
5-84
2
George Pickens
5-91
1
Tylan Wallace
3-115
1
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Travis Kelce
8-64
1
Mark Andrews
6-68
1
Tanner Hudson
6-42
1
T.J. Hockenson
8-72
0
George Kittle
3-57
1
Placekickers
XP
FG
Joey Slye
1
4
Tyler Bass
3
3
Jake Moody
2
3
Jake Elliott
4
2
Harrison Butker
1
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Eagles
3-5
0
Patriots
9-0
0
Bills
4-4
1
Vikings
3-3
0
Texans
0-5
0
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
Delightfully light.
RB Miles Sanders – Leg
RB Tank Bigsby – Ankle
RB Aaron Jones – Chest
TE Dalton Kincaid – Knee
TE Sam LaPorta – Shoulder
GM Jerry Jones – Microphone allergy
Chasing Ambulances
RB Miles Sanders – Carted from the field with what is expected to be a serious injury to his leg. His absence won’t mean much to the Panthers who should be bringing Jonathan Brooks into the active lineup very soon, and Chuba Hubbard has been very strong.
RB Tank Bigsby – Had to be helped from the field after the second drive of the game with an ankle injury. He was already questionable with an ankle injury entering the game. He later re-entered the game for one carry in the second quarter but then was not used. The ankle is an ongoing problem for Bigsby, who may not be fully healthy until after their Week 12 bye.
RB Aaron Jones – Took a massive hit to his right ribs and was in much pain. He was carted to the locker room. He later returned to the game and carried four times near the end of the game.
TE Dalton Kincaid – Twisted his knee in the second quarter, then returned for one third-quarter incompletion and then ruled out of the game. Dawson Knox steps up if Kincaid cannot play against the Chiefs this week, but expectations would be low.
TE Sam LaPorta – Left the game after scoring once, but injured his shoulder and did not return. There wasn’t much said about him in the late game on Sunday, so more information should be known on Monday.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
RB Cam Akers – Aaron Jones ran 17 times in the win over the Jaguars but was banged up for part of the game. Cam Akers handled 13 carries for 38 yards, while Ty Chandler ran just four times for 18 yards. The Vikings are comfortable leaning on Akers when they have to, and he is a must-add for the Jones owner. He could offer standalone fantasy value if Jones misses time.
RB Chuba Hubbard – Playing in Munich, Germany, the Panthers opted to make the rookie Jonathan Brooks inactive again this week and that left Hubbard with 28 carries for 153 yards and one touchdown, plus four catches for 16 yards and the primary weapon in their second-consecutive win. The Panthers enter their bye and then host the Chiefs in Week 12. By this point, why bother with Brooks? Then again, what changed in Hubbard’s fourth NFL season?
QB Joe Flacco – The Colts are riding the veteran the rest of the way and facing the Bills. Joe Flacco passed for 272 yards and two scores. He used his wideouts almost exclusively. That involved Alec Pierce (4-81, TD), Josh Downs (7-72), and Adonai Mitchell (6-71) who all offered moderate fantasy points. There are no stars here, but three fantasy options for receivers. Flacco also threw three interceptions, but only two were his fault.
TE T.J. Hockenson – Finally returned from his 2023 knee injury in Week 9 but only managed three catches for 27 yards. Facing the Jaguars weak secondary, Hockenson rekindled pre-injury form when he led the offense with eight catches for 72 yards. That didn’t take long.
RB Javonte Williams / Audric Estime – The Broncos backfield has struggled to produce this season, and Javonte Williams has been the primary back. Until now. Williams had been used for 12 to 17 carries weekly, and Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin shared the scraps. Facing the Chiefs, Williams was only given one first-quarter carry for five yards. McLaughlin only ran twice. But Estime carried 14 times for 53 yards. The trio will continue to exist, but the playcalling has swung to favor Estime, and he is the back of the future.
WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling – With the Saints already down three starting wideouts and suffering through their seven-game losing streak, they acquired MVS after the Bills released him after they traded for Amari Cooper. He only caught one pass in his debut last week, but MVS caught three against the Falcons for Week 10. They included a 40-yard touchdown, a 67-yard gain, and a 2-yard touchdown for a total of 109 yards and two scores. All three catches were within an eight-minute span in the second quarter.
Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
RB Christian McCaffrey – After waiting just nine short weeks, McCaffrey owners got to click that START box for the first time and any points would be more than what McCaffrey offered in return for likely the first pick in a fantasy draft. He ran for 39 yards on 13 carries, while Jordan Mason owners only got one run for five yards. But McCaffrey offered six catches for 68 yards. His 19 touches were great to see in his first game back and he’ll face a weak Seattle run defense this week.
WR Jauan Jennings – Brandon Aiyuk is on injured reserve but Jennings returned after missing three games and took over the split end spot and led the 49ers with seven catches for 93 yards and was thrown 11 targets, four more than anyone else. Granted, it came against the weak Buccaneers secondary, but Jennings should figure in more for the stretch of the season as Aiyuk’s replacement. The rookie Ricky Pearsall (4-73, TD) also showed up in Week 10, making an impact from the slot.
WR Mike Williams – He was traded away by the Jets after they acquired Davante Adams and he was active on Sunday despite only having a few days with the Steelers. He only caught one pass – a beautiful 32-yard bomb thrown by Russell Wilson that provided the winning points with just two minutes left to play. That should accelerate his role in the game plan.
RB Gus Edwards – After landing on injured reserve in Week 5, Edwards was finally active for the Chargers again on Sunday. And he did exactly what no one wanted to see. He gained 55 yards on ten catches while J.K. Dobbins gained 50 yards on 15 runs. Edwards also was given several goal-line carries though none were successful. Kimani Vidal was inactive and it’s back to the maddening committee approach.
RB Tyjae Spears – Also out injured since Week 6, Spears returned against the Colts and ran six times for 27 yards, while Julius Chestnut returned to zero touches. Tony Pollard (9-44) was banged up coming into the game, so Spears was likely a little busier than usual.
QB Cooper Rush – The Cowboys are 0-4 at home and the first week of Cooper Rush shattered any hopes for the Cowboys, their fantasy players, and their season-ticket drive next spring. He completed just 13-of-34 for 45 yards and was later benched so that Trey Lance could go 4-of-6 for 21 yards and one interception. The fantasy fallout spread to Jake Ferguson (4-24) and CeeDee Lamb (6-21).
WR John Metchie – The Texans bumped him up the depth chart after Stefon Diggs was lost in Week 8 and Nico Collins was already on IR. Metchie only caught three passes for 29 yards in Week 8, and then failed to catch either of his passes in Week 9. That landed him back on most waiver wires. But against the Lions, Metchie led the Texans with five catches for 74 yards and the only passing score by C.J. Stroud. That’ll get him picked up, again, from the waiver wire at least for this week in Dallas.
Huddle player of the week
Syndication: The Enquirer
Ja’Marr Chase (CIN) – This was not the week to face Chase in your fantasy league. Chase could practically build a career just facing the Ravens. In Week 5, he caught ten passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns. In Week 10, he racked up an astounding 264 yards and three touchdowns on 11 catches. That’s 55 points in a PPR league for those of you who did not go against him. In his eight games not playing the Ravens, Chase totaled 45 catches for 524 yards and five touchdowns. In two games versus Baltimore, he had 21 receptions for 457 yards and five scores.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Looking back at the injuries, stars and free agents from Week 9
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Joe Burrow
251-11
5
Jalen Hurts
230-67
3
Geno Smith
363-16
3
Daniel Jones
174-54
3
Josh Allen
235-7
3
Running Backs
Yards
TD
Saquon Barkley
27-159
3-40
2
De’Von Achane
12-63
8-58
2
Alvin Kamara
29-155
6-60
0
Chase Brown
27-120
5-37
1
Derrick Henry
23-106
1-27
2
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
J. Smith-Njigba
7-180
2
Garrett Wilson
9-90
2
Zay Flowers
5-127
2
Demarcus Robinson
6-94
2
Courtland Sutton
7-122
1
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Mike Gesicki
5-100
2
Brock Bowers
5-45
1
Jake Ferguson
7-71
0
Theo Johnson
3-51
1
Trey McBride
3-35
1
Placekickers
XP
FG
Evan McPherson
5
2
Justin Tucker
5
2
Tyler Bass
1
3
Blake Grupe
1
3
Austin Siebert
3
2
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Rams
7-3
1
Chargers
6-3
0
Cardinals
6-0
0
Jets
8-1
0
Jaguars
3-1
1
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
QB Dak Prescott – Hamstring
WR Chris Olave – Concussion
WR Drake London – Hip
WR Cedrick Wilson – Shoulder
WR Jaylen Waddle – Ankle
WR Puka Nacua – Ejected
WR A.J. Brown – Knee
Chasing Ambulances
QB Dak Prescott– He appeared to have injured his throwing hand but then they ruled him out with a hamstring injury. He’ll have an MRI on his leg on Monday, but he said that he “felt something that he never felt before,” which sounds concerning.
WR Chris Olave– He was carted from the field on a backboard and sent to the hospital for evaluation. He was later released but will enter the NFL concussion protocol, and there was nothing that seemed “mild” about that hit. This could end up more than just one week.
WR Drake London – Caught a touchdown in the win over the Cowboys but landed on his hip. He rode a stationary bike on the sideline but was ruled out. He’ll be evaluated on Monday, but initial speculation is that it is not a very serious injury.
WR Jaylen Waddle – Had a Bills defender blocked into him step on his ankle and seemed to be in much pain initially. He later returned to the game, so he apparently was no worse for the injury.
WR A.J. Brown – Was initially evaluated for a concussion but was cleared, only to be later ruled out with a knee injury. It did not seem bad, and there is speculation that he was held out more as a precaution, but more will be known after Monday.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
QB Cooper Rush/Trey Lance – The Cowboys may be without Dak Prescott, depending on further news about his hamstring. Cooper Rush entered the loss to the Falcons and finished the game with 115 yards and a score. The Cowboys face the Eagles, but at 3-5, the game has lost much of the luster. Barring more information, the fear is that the Cowboys could try both quarterbacks during the game.
WR Darnell Mooney – After Drake London left the win over the Cowboys, Mooney took over as the primary receiver and led the Falcons with five catches for 88 yards and a score. He fielded nine targets – six more than any other Atlanta wideout. Notable, too, was Kyle Pitts reverting back to only one catch for 11 yards. Mooney was already fantasy-relevant for next week but becomes a must-start if he is the top receiver against the Jaguars.
QB Derek Carr – Faced the weak Panthers’ defense in his first game back from injured reserve but only passed for 236 yards and one score. This was one of their softest matchups of the year, but it was a surprise that the top receivers were Alvin Kamara (6-60) and Taysom Hill (4-41). Kamara also ran for 155 yards on 29 rushes to handle the bulk of all offense. But it was still disappointing to see that no wideouts stepped up after Chris Olave was lost.
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders – The Carolina rookie is still far too inconsistent to merit a fantasy start, but he’s had two games with five catches before this week and led the team with four catches for 87 yards in the win over the Saints. When he whiffs, it can be a one-catch dud but he is improving. With Diontae Johnson gone, the Panthers have to redistribute the passes, and for one week, Sanders did the most.
QB Desmond Ridder – The Raiders already traded Davante Adams away andthey never had a highly-rated quarterback. Now Gardner Minshew has been benched mid-game again. Ridder entered the game near the end of the third quarter and completed 11-of-16 for 74 yards and one score. The Raiders go onto their bye for Week 9 and need to figure out how to be at least competitive in games.
TE Mike Gesicki – The Bengals tight end already caught seven passes for 73 yards in Week 8 when Tee Higgins was out. For Week 9, he again helped cover for the missing Higgins with a team-best five catches for 100 yards and two touchdowns as the top fantasy tight end for the weekend. With rumors of Higgins being on a trading block, Gesicki’s role may continue to be used more.
WR Quentin Johnston – The first-round pick of 2023 hasn’t met expectations and never managed more than 52 yards in any game this season. In Week 9, he led the Chargers with four catches for 118 yards and one score. It was his career-first 100-yard performance but Ladd McConkey had two more targets (5 vs. 7) and gained 64 yards on five catches. Justin Herbert passed for 282 yards and two scores on the road versus an above-average defense. Johnston finally turned in stats worthy of that high draft pick.
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Speaking of 2023 first-round wideouts, Smith-Njigba struggled through a disappointing rookie season and hasn’t done that much this year. But he just reached a career-high, by a large margin, when he ended the overtime loss to the Rams with seven catches for 180 yards and two scores. Tyler Lockett (3-63, TD) was next best and all others were meaningless. DK Metcalf was out and Smith-Njigba took advantage.
WR Puka Nacua – He was limited to only one catch for 11 yards in the win over the Seahawks because he ran a deep route that was intercepted. A defender continued to block Nacua beyond the end of the play, and well beyond the point that caused him to choose violence, and he punched the defender, which led to a disqualification.He was already questionable coming into the game with his knee bothering him again but he was still active. Hopefully, the visiting Dolphins won’t set him off again. In other news, Cooper Kupp caught 11 passes for 104 yards.
RB Cam Akers – He was traded to the Vikings, and against the Colts he carried for 46 yards on six rushes, ripping several chunk plays. Aaron Jones was the lead rusher with 21 carries for 64 yards, but the Vikings are ready if they need to replace him. Akers looked so good that he might take a few more touches from Jones than originally thought.
WR Demarcus Robinson – After trudging through the season with sub-10-point fantasy scores, the Rams receiver scored twice in Week 8 on his two catches for 35 yards. On Week 9 Sunday, he had a career-best fantasy performance when Puka Nacua was out and the Rams threw him nine targets to catch six for 94 yards and two touchdowns in the overtime win at the Seahawks. Robinson never scored more than four touchdowns in any of his seven previous seasons, and just logged four in the last two weeks.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Saquon Barkley (PHI) – Imagine what could have been had Barkley been drafted by the Eagles instead of languishing in New York for six years running behind a terrible line on a team with no other weapons that concerned the defense. Barkley just ran for 159 yards and a score on 27 rushes in the win over the Jaguars, and added three receptions for 40 yards and a second touchdown.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Tunnel Vision – a look back at Sunday for fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Jalen Hurts
236-37
4
Bo Nix
284-4
4
Kirk Cousins
276-13
4
Trevor Lawrence
308-10
3
Matthew Stafford
279-(-4)
4
Running Backs
Yards
TD
James Cook
17-111
3-22
2
De’Von Achane
10-97
6-50
1
Josh Jacobs
25-127
1-(-2)
2
Rhamondre Stevenson
20-48
3-17
2
Joe Mixon
25-102
1
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Ladd McConkey
6-111
2
Cedric Tillman
7-99
2
Calvin Ridley
10-143
0
Marvin Harrison Jr.
6-111
1
CeeDee Lamb
13-146
2
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Cade Otton
9-81
2
Kyle Pitts
4-91
2
Travis Kelce
10-90
1
Trey McBride
9-124
0
George Kittle
6-128
1
Placekickers
XP
FG
Jake Elliott
4
3
Brandon McManus
3
3
Austin Siebert
0
4
Ka’imi Fairbairn
2
3
Dustin Hopkins
2
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Lions
1-4
1
Broncos
2-2
0
Bills
1-2
0
Texans
5-2
0
Chiefs
5-1
0
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
QB Drake Maye – Concussion
QB Jordan Love – Groin
RB Rico Dowdle – Illness
RB Kendre Miller – Hamstring
RB Jordan Mason – Shoulder
WR Sterling Shepard – Hamstring
WR Stefon Diggs – Knee
WR Gabe Davis – Shoulder
WR Brian Thomas Jr. – Chest
WR Christian Kirk – Shoulder
WR Deebo Samuel – Ribs
Chasing Ambulances
QB Drake Maye – Left the win over the Jets during the second quarter and did not return. He was listed as a head injury but is expected to have suffered a concussion. Jacoby Brissett wasn’t that productive but did not lose the ball. Maye could miss Week 9 at the Titans, and Brissett would again replace him.
QB Jordan Love – Injured his groin in the second quarter and did not return. Love had previously injured his knee this season and he seemed to have re-injured his left knee in the first quarter but continued to play. He came out with a groin injury after getting shoved on a pass attempt. Malik Willis replaced him, but the Packers lost. This injury could not be timed worse – the Packers play the Lions this week.
WR Sterling Shepard – Injured his hamstring after three catches in the loss to the Falcons. He later returned to the game after receiving treatment but the Buccaneers wideouts are still sorting out what they have to work with.
WR Stefon Diggs – The Texans were already without Nico Collins, and then Diggs pulled up lame with a non-contact injury to his knee during the second quarter. That is never good. An MRI will be performed to determine the exact injury and severity, but first glance suggested that he would miss time with the same knee that he’d injured twice before and missed time after those.
WR Brian Thomas Jr. – Injured his chest on his third-quarter touchdown catch and did not return to the game. It did not initially appear to be severe, but he’ll be further examined to determine the extent of his injury.
WR Christian Kirk – The Jaguars lost both starting wideouts in the loss to the Packers. Christian Kirk had caught two passes for 59 yards and was injured on a deep incompletion in the fourth quarter. He landed hard on his left shoulder and was in a lot of pain. He immediately grabbed his collarbone and then went straight into the locker room. Kirk was rumored to be the subject of a potential trade to the Steelers, but that’s likely no longer a consideration.
RB Jordan Mason – The 49ers tailback was forced from the game with a shoulder injury in the first half and while he was never listed as out, he did not play again while the 49ers just turned to Isaac Guerendo instead. Mason injured his shoulder earlier this year but played through it. The 49ers head onto their bye week, and Christian McCaffrey might actually show up by then. His health is worth tracking since McCaffrey may not return to an immediate full load whenever he returns.
WR Deebo Samuel – He was unable to finish Week 7 because of his pneumonia but was active and turned in four catches for 71 yards in the win over the Cowboys. He left the game late with a rib injury. He heads onto his bye week, so his health will be assessed for Week 10 during their time off.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
QB Jameis Winston – With Deshaun Watson lost for the year, Winston was handed the reins of the Browns and he had the good fortune of playing one of the worst secondaries in the NFL of the Ravens. Winston threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns, even though Watson’s high-game was just 196 yards and two touchdowns. He’ll go against a Top-10 defense of the Chargers next week, but it will be another home game.
WR Cedric Tillman – The Browns traded Amari Cooper away, and Cedric Tillman stepped up as his replacement. Tillman caught eight passes for 81 yards last week versus the Bengals, and on Sunday, he led the Browns with seven catches for 99 yards and two touchdowns. Elijah Moore (8-85) also had his best game of the season, but again, they faced the No. 32 defense versus fantasy wideouts.
WR Calvin Ridley – The first week without DeAndre Hopkins saw the Titans face the No. 29 defense versus fantasy wideouts and that showed up with Ridley gathering 15 targets to catch 10 for 143 yards. That was more yardage than his last five games combined. His previous high on receptions was just four. The Titans play the Patriots this week, and while their defense is at least marginally better than the Lions, Ridley has instantly become the primary target on every pass play. No other receiver managed more than three catches or 39 yards.
WR John Metchie – Stefon Diggs was injured near the end of the third quarter and his backup Metchie entered the game and caught three of his four targets for 29 yards. Diggs plays the important slot role, and his injury seems likely to make him miss time. If he does, Metchie will join Tank Dell and Xavier Hutchinson as the starting wideouts for their trip to play at the Jets this week. Hutchinson replaced Nico Collins but only caught one pass for 19 yards.
WR Parker Washington – The Jaguars had injuries to Brian Thomas Jr. (chest), Christian Kirk (shoulder), and Gabe Davis (shoulder) all left the loss to the Packers with injuries. That is all of the starting wideouts. Washington (3-46) replaces Kirk as the backup slot receiver. Depending on what happens with the three injured starters this week, Washington may end up as the primary wideout at the Eagles.
QB Tua Tagovailoa – He’s back but went against the No. 29 defense versus quarterbacks and only managed 234 passing yards and one score. He brought Tyreek Hill back to life (6-72), but no other receivers gained more than 45 yards. Probably rust.
TE Kyle Pitts – Maybe it was National Tight End Week, but Pitts turned in a career-best performance when he caught four passes for 91 yards and his first two-touchdown game.
Buccaneer wideouts – Mike Evans and Chris Godwin were gone, and yet Baker Mayfield still passed for 330 yards and three touchdowns in the close loss to the Falcons. There was no standout replacement for the two star receivers. Rakim Jarrett (3-58), Sterling Shepard (3-18), Jalen McMillan (4-35), Trey Palmer (2-29), and Ryan Miller (3-19) were all involved. And that was every active wideout that the Bucs had on their roster. And still, not one of them with any real fantasy value. Mayfield tried them all.
WR Ladd McConkey – He’ll be a hot property on the waiver wire after logging six passes for 111 yards and two touchdowns in the win over the Saints. Realize he only averaged 44 yards per game coming into this week, but he also just bought some confidence from Justin Herbert.
QB Bryce Young – Yes, the Panthers lost 28-14 to the Broncos, but Young threw for 224 yards and two scores. That may not sound like much, but his first four starts contained no passing scores and never more than 161 passing yards. That was also more than what Andy Dalton did in any game other than his first start.
WR Jakobi Meyers – He was questionable coming into the game buthe caught a team-high six passes for 52 yards and a touchdown. In the post-Adams world, Meyers stepped up as the new primary wideout.
RB D’Andre Swift – He had scored in the last three games entering Week 8. Swift made it four straight and ran for a season-best 129 yards on 18 carries in the loss to the Commanders. For the last month, Swift has handled at least 21 touches in every game and is one of the busiest running backs in the league. Swift a workhorse? Go figure.
National Tight End Day – Not only did the day set the NFL record for tight end touchdowns (16) and tight end catches (177), butthe “holiday” was invented by George Kittle, who was also the top tight end on the day with six catches for 128 yards and a score.
RB Isaac Guerendo – The rookie stepped in for the injured Jordan Mason and rolled up 85 yards on 14 carries (6.1 YPC) with a touchdown against the visiting Cowboys and even added three receptions for 17 yards. He looked great and picked up chunks of yardage. The 49ers go on their bye, and Christian McCaffrey may be back in Week 10. But Guerendo did himself a favor by creating confidence whenever they need to turn to him again.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Neville E. Guard-Imagn Images
WR CeeDee Lamb – The Cowboys dropped below .500 with their loss to the 49ers, but at least Lamb finished with 17 targets for 13 receptions, 146 yards and both Dallas touchdowns. His scores came in the final eight minutes of the contest and nearly made a game of it. He got paid this year, he disappointed to start the season but he should have been thrown every pass on Sunday night.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Tunnel Vision – a look back at Sunday for fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Brock Purdy
212-27
2
Jalen Hurts
114-22
3
Josh Allen
323-1
2
Drake Maye
276-18
2
Russell Wilson
264-3
3
Running Backs
Rush/Rcv
TD
Jahmyr Gibbs
15-116
4-44
2
Saquon Barkley
17-176
2-11
1
Joe Mixon
25-115
2-9
2
Javonte Williams
14-88
3-23
2
Breece Hall
12-38
6-103
1
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Amon-Ra St. Brown
8-112
1
Brian Thomas Jr.
5-89
1
Justin Jefferson
7-81
1
George Pickens
5-111
1
DK Metcalf
4-99
1
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
David Njoku
10-76
1
Jonnu Smith
7-96
1
Brock Bowers
10-93
0
Hunter Henry
8-92
0
George Kittle
6-92
0
Placekickers
XP
FG
Austin Siebert
4
4
Daniel Carlson
0
5
Will Lutz
3
4
Will Reichard
2
3
Ka’imi Fairbairn
1
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Denver
6-2
1
Washington
2-2
1
Philadelphia
8-0
0
LA Rams
2-4
1
Seattle
3-3
1
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
QB Deshaun Watson – Achilles
QB D Thompson-Robinson – Finger
QB Jayden Daniels – Ribs
QB Tyler Huntley – Shoulder
QB Aidan O’Connell – Thumb
WR Demario Douglas – Illness
WR Ja’Lynn Polk – Head
WR Deebo Samuel – Illness
WR DK Metcalf – Knee
WR JuJu Smith-Schuster – Hamstring
Chasing Ambulances
QB Deshaun Watson – Appears to have potentially torn his Achilles and is expected to miss the rest of the season, barring surprising news. Watson went down untouched and his calf had that visible contraction typical of a torn Achilles. Watson was playing largely because his overpaid contract forced him on the field but he was not “a fan favorite.”
QB Jayden Daniels – Left for the locker room and returned without pads on what was initially considered ribs. But he was smiling and the Commanders were up 34-0 anyway. Early speculation is that Daniels will be fine for this week against the Bears. Marcus Mariota was effective in relief but was also facing the visiting Panthers.
QB Tyler Huntley – Injured his shoulder and did not return to the game. Tim Boyle took his place but Tua Tagovailoa is slated to return for Week 8, so Huntley’s status may not matter.
QB Aidan O’Connell – Thoughtto havebroken the thumb on his throwing hand when he hit a helmet after a throw. Gardner Minshew finished the game and is likely the starter again. A broken thumb on a throwing hand is definitely a multi-week issue and potentially season-ending. With the season already gone bad, the Raiders are unlikely to trade for any notable quarterback.
WR Demario Douglas – The Patriots’ No. 1 wideout caught the first two passes and then never again as he was reported – after the kickoff – to have been sick. He then returned for one play in the second half, which caused any prop bets made on him to stand. This was not unnoticed by the gamblers who questioned his lack of reporting and then insertion into the second half for a single play that locked in his bets instead of cancelling them.
WR DK Metcalf – Had his knee banged while catching a pass and left the game. HC Mike MacDonald said the injury wasn’t as severe as first feared and that “it doesn’t look too bad.” His status for the Bills matchup this weekend will be determined during the week, but it doesn’t sound like it should be an issue.
WR JuJu Smith-Schuster – The Chiefs wideout was already questionable to play last week with a hamstring injury but was active. He was later pulled from the game when the hamstring flared up again.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
QB Jameis Winston – Should be a hot property in Super Flex leagues where any quarterback has value. Deshaun Watson appears to be gone for the year with a severe knee injury, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson injured his finger. Winston seems to be the last man standing since the Browns dumped the capable Joe Flacco, so there wouldn’t be calls for him while Watson struggled. The Browns just lost their fifth straight, so there is no point in trading for an upgrade.
WR Ricky Pearsall – The 49ers appear likely to miss Brandon Aiyuk for a while, if not the season and Deebo Samuel was suddenly ill and dropped out of the loss to the Chiefs despite being active. Pearsall debuted yesterday when he caught three passes for 21 yards against the Chiefs’ top-ranked secondary. Jauan Jennings was out with a hip injury and never practiced last week. Pearsall needs to help this week when the Cowboys visit.
RB Kendre Miller– He stumbled through his rookie season, mostly injured and then injured his hamstring this summer. Miller finally debuted his week versus the Broncos and ran for 36 yards on six carries, while Alvin Kamara only gained 10 yards on seven rushes. Most of Miller’s work came later in the blowout loss, but he’s a name to remember for Kamara owners and would see more work if Kamara gets his wish about being traded. Jamaal Williams has been wholly ineffective this season.
RB Tank Bigsby – He turned in a career-best in the matcup with the Patriots in London when he ran for 118 yards and two scores on 26 carries. He has no role as a receiver, which is more of the purvey of Travis Etienne anyway. But Bigsby has had two 100-yard performances over the last two weeks, and Etienne faded away even before missing time due to a hamstring injury.
QB Mason Rudolph – The Titans started Rudolph with Will Levis nursing a shoulder injury, though there were whispers that Rudolph would be getting a chance anyway. He threw for 215 yards and one score, but no receivers topped 50 yards. But that was better than all but one game by Levis and it came on the road to Buffalo and their Top-10 pass defense. Rudolph will need to throw this week and should see at least a little more success at the Lions.
WR Amari Cooper – His uniform still had creases in it, but the ex-Brown debuted with four very encouraging catches for 66 yards and one touchdown. Keon Coleman (4-125) also had a career-high, thanks in part to the opposing defense having more to worry about now.
WR Cedric Tillman – First game without Amari Cooper, and the Browns spun through three quarterbacks. But the top receiver became Cedric Tillman (8-81), while Jerry Jeudy (1-18) drew the heaviest coverage. Tillman fielded 12 targets, yet he only had five others in the season before this week.
QB Tua Tagovailoa – He’s expected to return when the Dolphins host the Cardinals. The Dolphins offense has cratered without him, and Tyreek Hill just caught one pass for eight yards on his two targets in the game. Jaylen Waddle was better, with one catch for 11 yards. Hard to recall that Tagovailoa’s last full game saw Hill and Waddle break 100 yards.
QB Daniel Jones– He was finally benched in the third quarter of the 28-3 loss to the Eagles. He only managed 99 passing yards but Drew Lock was even worse with 3-of-6 for six yards. Malik Nabers returned from his concussion and led the team with only four catches for 41 yards. HC Brian Daboll has already confirmed that Jones will be the starter again this week in Pittsburgh, but they already have the leash ready.
WR Tre Tucker – He only managed three catches for 36 yards, but that was second only to Brock Bowers in the loss to the Rams. Davante Adams is officially gone and Tucker’s eight targets were second-highest for the Raiders.
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders – The Panthers’ rookie led the team with six catches for 61 yards – on six targets. No other Panther receiver had more than two catches or 17 yards.
WR Davante Adams – His debut started well with three catches for 30 yards in the first half but then he had no receptions in the second half. Aaron Rodgers threw two interceptions to add to his four in the previous two games. He rarely threw six intereceptions in any career year, let alone over three games. What if the problem is… you know… when the pass is thrown?
QB Russell Wilson – He took over for Justin Fields who was 4-2 but didn’t throw downfield that well. Wilson went against an admittedly injury-depleted secondary but threw for 264 yards and two scores. He also gave George Pickens five catches for 111 yards and his first touchdown on the season. He also added a rushing score to make him the highest-scoring fantasy quarterback of the weekend.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Saquon Barkley (PHI) – In what may be one of the bigger front office miscalcuations of all time was when the Giants told Barkley that he could go find a deal. He did. The Eagles welcomed him and then made him a workhorse AND had a great offensive line. Barkley pasted his old team with 17 runs for 176 yards and caught two passes for 11 yards with one score. It was everything you crave when facing an ex-employer.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
Tunnel Vision – a look back at Sunday for fantasy free agents, injuries and notable performances.
SUNDAY SALUTES
Quarterbacks
Pass-Rush
TD
Baker Mayfield
325-29
4
Caleb Williams
226-56
4
Jordan Love
258-13
4
Drake Maye
243-38
3
Jared Goff
315-5
3
Running Backs
Rush/Rec.
TD
Sean Tucker
14-136
3-56
2
Joe Mixon
13-102
2-30
2
Bijan Robinson
1-95
3-10
2
Derrick Henry
24-132
2
TyroneTracy Jr.
17-50
6-57
1
Wide Receivers
Yards
TD
Chris Godwin
11-125
2
A.J. Brown
6-116
1
Terry McLaurin
6-53
2
Zay Flowers
9-132
0
Gabriel Davis
5-45
2
Tight Ends
Yards
TD
Cole Kmet
5-70
2
George Kittle
5-58
2
Evan Engram
10-102
0
Trey McBride
8-96
0
Brock Bowers
9-71
0
Placekickers
XP
FG
Jake Bates
5
4
Chris Boswell
2
4
Austin Seibert
2
3
Justin Tucker
3
3
Brandon Aubrey
0
3
Defense
Sack – TO
TD
Lions
4-5
0
Buccaneers
5-3
1
Saints
1-3
1
Texans
4-4
0
Browns
1-0
1
Bumps, Bruises and Bowouts
RB Travis Etienne – Hamstring
RB Jerome Ford – Hamstring
RB Jamesd Conner – Ankle
WR Chris Olave – Concussion
WR Marvin Harrison Jr. – Concussion
WR Dontayvion Wicks – Shoulder
WR Quentin Johnston – Ankle
WR Elijah Moore – Rib
TE Dallas Goedert – Hamstring
Chasing Ambulances
RB Travis Etienne – The Jags’ primary back was already in decline this year and entered the game having just healed a shoulder injury. He strained his hamstring and was unable to return. Etienne had disappointed and appears to have health issues that may be related to being overused last year. Tank Bigsby has already emerged as a solid option and would handle the backfield with D’Earnest Johnson if Etienne misses the Patriots matchup this week.
RB Jerome Ford – Left the game with a hamstring strain and did not return. D’Onta Foreman and Pierre Strong stepped up to replace Ford. The severity of Ford’s hamstring will be determined with an MRI on Monday. Nick Chubb should be back this week, so the backfield will already be different.
WR Chris Olave – Suffered a concussion on his first catch of the day and was held out. While it did not appear to be severe, his availability for the matchup with the Broncos this week is in question. Spencer Rattler wasn’t bad, throwing for 243 yards and scoring in his debut, but none of the wideouts did anything to step up and replace Olave.
WR Marvin Harrison Jr. – Left in the first half after taking a hard hit to his head and was ruled out with a concussion. He was helped off the field and ruled out for the game. He’ll be evaluated during the week but may miss the matchup with the visiting Chargers this week. None of the other wideouts stepped up in his absence.
TE Dallas Goedert – Injured his hamstring in the first quarter and immediately went to the locker room. An MRI will determine the severity of the injury, but he may miss the trip to the Giants this week, judging solely by the apparent seriousness.
Free Agents, Flops and Other Notables
TE Evan Engram – Had been out since Week 1 and was questionable entering the game, but he easily led the Jags in their loss to the Bears when he caught ten passes for 102 yards. That was double the receptions of any other Jaguars receiver.
TE Mark Andrews – Like Kyle Pitts in Week 5, the Ravens’ tight end was safely tucked onto fantasy benches after two games without a catch and only 120 yards on the season. Versus the Commanders, Andrews caught three passes for 66 yards and the lone passing score by Baltimore. Isaiah Likely only caught two passes for 27 yards. That will probably reverse if you dare to start Andrews this week in Tampa Bay.
RB Trey Benson – James Conner seemed to be hampered by his ankle, though it was not reported. Conner also lost a fumble in the second half. He was limited to only 24 yards on seven rushes. Benson led the offense with 26 yards on five rushes, while Emari Demercado gained 25 yards on four carries and added five catches for 39 yards. Conner has often been injuredin the past, so watch practices this week to see if Conner is at all limited. Demercado is the third-down back, while Benson is the rookie who was a sleeper this summer and who could be the primary back in 2025.
WR Christian Watson – He is the NFL’s version of that flower that blooms just one day a year. Week 6 was when he led the Packers with three catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. He was questionable coming into the game because of an ankle injury suffered two weeks ago. There’s no arguing about his potential, but also no arguing that his durability remains his biggest opponent.
QB Drake Maye – The Patriots rookie debuted and while they lost badly to the Texans, Maye’s first career game impressed. He passed for 243 yards and three touchdowns against two interceptions. He also added five runs for 38 yards. That easily outpaced anything that Jacoby Brissett had done this year, when he never had more than one score or 168 passing yards in any game. Let the Drake Maye era begin.
WR Demario Douglas – Further impressing, Drake Maye not only turned in solid passing stats in his first start, but his top two receivers were the two starting wideouts, not a nearby tight end or a dumpoff-catching running back. Demario Demarcus led the team with six catches for 92 yards and a touchdown. Kayshon Boutte was next with three receptions for 59 yards and a score.
RB Bucky Irving – He was already gaining on Rachaad White and took the start this week with White out. He gained 81 yards on 14 carries and scored once in the win at the Saints. Irving also added two catches for 24 yards and this was against the defense that had ranked No. 4 versus running backs.
RB Sean Tucker – The undrafted running back from Syracuse signed with the Buccaneers in 2023, and his two seasons totaled just 17 carries for 30 yards before Week 6 when he ran for a team-high 136 yards on 14 carries with one score, and caught three passes for 56 yards in the 51-27 beatdown of the Saints. Tucker only carried once to seven for Bucky Irving by halftime and just once in the third quarter. The majority of his rushes came in the fourth quarter after the Buccaneers were already up 37-27 and they were controlling the clock. Tucker’s rushing score happened with only two minutes to play when the Bucs had already led 44-27.. He made the most of the opportunity, but this wasn’t a case of him leapfrogging Bucky Irving on the depth chart.
QB Spencer Rattler – The Saints rookie took his first NFL start and threw for 243 yards and one score. He was at an immediate disadvantage from losing Chris Olave to start the game. Derek Carr’s job is still very safe.
TE Grant Calcaterra – Stepped in when Dallas Goedert was injured and ended second on the team with four catches for 67 yards in the win over the Browns. He could be a cheap Daily Fantasy option next week at the Giants if Goedert remains out.
RB Kimani Vidal – The Chargers rookie was on injured reserve but came off the list this week and debuted in the in over the Broncos. His first touch was a 38-yard touchdown catch. He only gained 11 yards on four carries, while J.K. Dobbins handled 25 rushes for 96 yards. But his first active game was encouraging and Gus Edwards was placed onto injured reserve, so the rookie gets a lock on the No. 2 job.
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders – The Panthers’ rookie was one of the offseason upgrade of offensive weapons, and he had a quiet start to his career. The ex-Longhorn had never topped 16 yards in any game over the first five weeks but then was the No. 2 receiver for the Panthers in their loss to the Falcons when he caught five passes for 49 yards. That falls short of fantasy relevancy, but at least he’s finally getting more looks and totaled seven targets in the game.
Huddle player of the week
Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Chris Godwin (TB) – The eighth-year Buccaneer has long been the No. 2 wideout that usually ends up just cresting 1,000 yards per year with three or four touchdowns. Not this year. He’s enjoying a big year and ended Week 6 as the highest scoring fantasy player when he caught 11 passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns. The Bucs hope that every opponent doubles Mike Evans and thinks all they need to do.
Salute!
Drama 101 – Somebody has to laugh, somebody has to cry
