The latest week in the NFL saw several standout performances, unexpected outcomes, and unfortunate injuries that will inevitably have fantasy football managers reassessing their strategies for the coming weeks.
Here's a detailed look at the most impactful players and events of the week:
Travis Etienne: The Emerging Star
Etienne delivered a powerhouse performance, solidifying his status as a top fantasy pick. With 30 touches amounting to 184 yards and 2 touchdowns, he dominated 90% of the running back carries in his game. Given his latest show, he remains a strong RB1 choice for future matchups.
Calvin Ridley's Resurgence
The Jaguars' Calvin Ridley returned to form with a commendable 7 receptions for 122 yards. Alongside him, Kirk and Engram, also from the Jaguars, attracted attention with 8 targets each. However, the looming cloud over Zay Jones' knee injury, which previously made him miss games, continues to be a point of concern.
James Cook's Decline
In a contrasting tale, James Cook had a day he'd rather forget, garnering 5 carries for a loss of 4 yards. The equally paltry performance from Latavius Murray and Damien Harris means Cook's current fantasy status plummets to a mid to low-end RB2.
Stefon Diggs & Gabe Davis: The 100-Yard Club
Both Diggs and Davis had exceptional games, each crossing the 100-yard mark. Davis, in particular, is showing signs of emerging as a consistent start for fantasy lineups.
Falcons' Aerial Game
Desmond Ridder had a notable game, but it was Kyle Pitts, with 7 for 87 yards on 11 targets, who led the Falcons' receivers. Meanwhile, Drake London chipped in with 6 receptions for 78 yards. However, fantasy managers would do well to monitor Pitts' utilization in coming games, given concerns about his route numbers.
Injury Concerns to Monitor
A slew of players experienced injuries that could impact future matchups. Tank Dell's concussion, Anthony Richardson's shoulder woes, and James Conner's knee injury are significant. The outcomes of pending MRIs and other medical evaluations will be crucial for fantasy managers.
Zack Moss: Breaking Expectations
Moss put up impressive numbers against the Titans, one of the toughest defenses in the league. With 195 total yards and 2 TDs, questions arise about Jonathan Taylor's future role and how Moss fits into the broader scheme of things.
The Rise and Rise of DeVon Achane
Achane's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular. With a tally of 151 yards from 11 carries this week, he's etched his name as a must-start RB1, not just for his volume but also his sheer efficiency on the field.
Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Darren Waller
Hill clocked in 8 catches for 181 yards and a TD, Waddle celebrated his first TD of the season, and Waller finally showcased why he's considered elite with 8 catches for 86 yards. However, the neck injury to Daniel Jones could influence future target distributions.
Rhamondre Stevenson, Zeke Elliott, and the Patriots' RB Situation
Stevenson and Elliott's shared touches raised eyebrows. The former's reduced target rate, combined with an underwhelming offensive approach, puts Stevenson in a precarious position as a low-end RB2.
Cooper Kupp & Puka: A Dynamic Duo
Both Kupp and Puka delivered with impressive numbers. Their tight target distribution holds promise for future games, making them worthy inclusions in most fantasy lineups.
Emerging Talents
Breece Hall had a breakout game, and Jaleel McLaughlin's potential is undeniable. Similarly, Joe Burrow's 317 passing yards and Ja’Marr Chase's explosive 192 yards and 3 TDs hint at a potential turn for the better for the Bengals' offense.
Injuries Clouding the Horizon
The hamstring injury to Justin Jefferson and Travis Kelce's suspected ankle sprain are setbacks. Their recoveries and potential game time in upcoming weeks will be keenly observed by fantasy aficionados.