Elic Ayomanor The Clear-Cut WR2 in Titans Offense
Elic Ayomanor is emerging as the clear-cut WR2 in the offense. While his Week 1 box score was modest, with only two catches for 13 yards against the Denver Broncos, the usage tells a different story. Ayomanor drew seven targets, far outpacing veteran Tyler Lockett (1) and fellow rookie Chimere Dike (1). Even with the Titans leaning heavily on 12 personnel, Ayomanor was on the field for 79% of the offensive snaps. That kind of snap share for a rookie in his first NFL game is highly encouraging. With quarterback Cam Ward expected to settle in and gain confidence as the season progresses, Ayomanor profiles as a strong buy-low candidate in fantasy. The Titans face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2, a defense that dominated Houston in their opener, so Ayomanor isn't a recommended fantasy start just yet. However, if his role as WR2 continues, a breakout game feels inevitable.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Tennessee Titans rookie wide receiver Source: Pro Football Reference
Is Michael Penix Jr. The Breakout QB of 2025?
Michael Penix Jr. is shaping up as an early breakout candidate. Despite missing wide receiver Darnell Mooney (shoulder) in Week 1, the rookie delivered an impressive performance, completing 27 of 42 passes for 298 yards and a touchdown, while adding 21 rushing yards and another score on the ground. Penix's passing production was solid, but it was his mobility that should really excite fantasy managers. His ability to extend plays and contribute as a runner adds a valuable floor to his weekly outlook. In Week 2, Penix gets a primetime stage on Sunday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings, which is a rematch of the 2023 National Championship with J.J. McCarthy. The Vikings just allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks in Week 1 and entered the game shorthanded on defense. With both Drake London (shoulder) and Mooney practicing ahead of the matchup, Penix should have his full complement of weapons and projects as a potential starter in most fantasy formats.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Source: Pro Football Reference
Chris Rodriguez Jr. To Be Healthy Scratch Again in Week 2?
Chris Rodriguez Jr. served as a healthy inactive in the season opener against the Giants. Rodriguez emerged in training camp as well as preseason, and he was in the mix for touches in the backfield headed into Week 1 after the Brian Robinson Jr. trade. However, Washington ultimately opted to keep three running backs active on gameday and roll with the duo of rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt and veteran Austin Ekeler to handle the bulk of the snaps, with Jeremy McNichols mixing in and contributing on special teams. It could have been just a Week 1 situation where they wanted a sixth wide receiver active with Noah Brown still limited, and it looks different in future weeks. It is possible that Rodriguez is made active for Washington's marquee matchup in Green Bay, but they have also been consistent in their praise for Croskey-Merritt, and the belief is that he will eventually be their lead back. Rodriguez will remain in a depth role for now, but he will be a name to watch if injuries start to hit.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders running back Source: RotoBaller
Ray-Ray McCloud III to be Phased Out of Falcons Offense?
Ray-Ray McCloud III was quietly phased out of the offense in Week 1. Despite Darnell Mooney (shoulder) being a surprise inactive, McCloud caught just three of five targets for 51 yards in the Falcons' season-opening loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. McCloud logged 72% of the snaps, which was a noticeable dip from his 86% snap share in 2024. He operated as the WR3 behind Drake London and second-year receiver Casey Washington, signaling a reduced role in the passing attack. With Mooney expected back soon, McCloud's usage could shrink even further. From a fantasy perspective, McCloud doesn't warrant a roster spot, even in deeper formats. Unless he delivers a surprise spike in production, he should remain on the free-agent market.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Source: Pro Football Reference
Tre Tucker A Focal Point in Raiders Offense
Tre Tucker looks like a focal point in the team's passing attack. The third-year wideout caught two of three targets for 54 yards and a touchdown in the Raiders' 20-13 win over the New England Patriots. Just as important, Tucker played 90% of the offensive snaps, ranking 18th among all wide receivers in Week 1. Tucker's blazing speed has never been in question, but inconsistency and poor quarterback play held him back early in his career. Now paired with Geno Smith, the chemistry between the two was evident in both training camp and game action. In Week 2, Tucker draws a favorable Monday Night Football matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, who allowed the fifth-most receiving yards to wide receivers in Week 1. While he's not a must-start just yet, Tucker is a name fantasy managers should keep a close eye on in free agency. If his usage continues, he could quickly turn into one of the top waiver adds of September.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Source: Pro Football Reference
Bill Belichick Advocated for Tyquan Thornton in Kansas City
Tyquan Thornton found his way to Kansas City thanks to a surprising advocate, former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. Belichick personally recommended Thornton to Andy Reid, telling him, "He's really got great potential." After three underwhelming seasons in New England, Thornton was released following the 2024 season. The Chiefs took a chance on him, and he immediately made an impact in Week 1, catching two passes for 41 yards against the Los Angeles Chargers. More importantly, Thornton played 72% of the offensive snaps, which is a clear sign that Kansas City wants him involved. With Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice both sidelined, Thornton could see an expanded role in this week's Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles. While it's tough to trust him in starting fantasy lineups just yet, Thornton is firmly on the waiver-wire watchlist. If his usage grows in Week 2, he could emerge as a valuable piece in a depleted Chiefs receiver room.
Source: Marleah Campbell - KCTV5
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Source: Marleah Campbell - KCTV5
Aaron Rodgers Due for Regression in Week 2?
Aaron Rodgers turned back the clock in Week 1, completing 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns in the Steelers' 34-32 win over the New York Jets. The 42-year-old quarterback completed passes to seven different receivers in Week 1 and looked fantastic in offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's scheme. Rodgers faces the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2, which should be an electric atmosphere in Acrisure Stadium. The Seahawks allowed the 13th fewest fantasy points in 2024 and forced two interceptions off 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. While the early excitement surrounding Rodgers and the Steelers' offense is evident, Rodgers should be on fantasy benches this week.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Source: Pro Football Reference
Cedric Tillman A Possible Add Despite Cluttered Browns Offense
Cedric Tillman has low-end starter/flex potential that could be worth a waiver-wire add in deeper PPR formats, especially. The third-year receiver had a nice Week 1 in which he tied for a team-best eight targets with five catches and a touchdown, but his role on the offense is still likely to be secondary over the course of the season. Cleveland's top receiver is still Jerry Jeudy, and the Browns are likely to be near the top of the league in time spent with multiple tight ends on the field due to David Njoku and breakout rookie Harold Fannin Jr. Further, rookie running back Dylan Sampson also had eight targets in Week 1, and Cleveland will be adding running back Quinshon Judkins into the fold at some point, too. Tillman certainly has shown potential, but Cleveland, per usual, is a volatile and unpredictable situation.
Source: RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Michael Mayer The Insurance Option For Brock Bowers
Brock Bowers (knee) in their drafts this year may want to consider the waiver-wire potential of Raiders tight end Michael Mayer, who figures to be the beneficiary if Bowers is unable to play Monday night against the Los Angeles Chargers. The third-year pro had a nice showing in Week 1, catching all four of his targets for 38 yards after Bowers exited the game. Bowers told reporters that he wasn't overly concerned about the injury, although the Raiders' final injury report will not be released until Saturday, and there is a possibility he won't be ruled out until Monday, after most games have been played. In the event Bowers is looking unlikely to play, there will be a rush to add Mayer, who has been a capable receiving option in his own right.
Source: RotoBaller
Fantasy managers who selected Las Vegas Raiders tight end Source: RotoBaller
Tyler O'Neill Expected to Return Friday
Tyler O'Neill (wrist) is on track to return to the team on Friday night when they start their series against the Blue Jays. Interim manager Tony Mansolino said that O'Neill could be activated if all went well on Thursday in his rehab start in Triple-A Norfolk, and O'Neill crushed a home run in the third inning while going 1-for-4. O'Neill has been limited to only 43 games this season for the Orioles, posting a disappointing .210/.293/.434 with eight homers, 23 RBI, 20 runs scored, and two stolen bases in 164 plate appearances. He has missed over a month with wrist inflammation, but will look to end the season on a high note by playing the last few weeks as a healthy contributor. Before the year, he signed a three-year deal with Baltimore, and it seems unlikely he would exercise his player opt-out after this season, making him a part of the O's plans for next year when he'll hope for a much healthier campaign.
Source: Rich Kubatko
Baltimore Orioles outfielder Source: Rich Kubatko
Dane Myers Will Begin Rehab Assignment Thursday
Dane Myers (oblique) has been sidelined since August 30 with an oblique strain, but the 29-year-old righty is starting a rehab assignment in Triple-A this Thursday, so he should be on track to get back in the lineup before the end of the season. In his 99 games this season, Myers hit .233 with six homers, a .276 wOBA, and 17 stolen bases. The Marlins outfield is a little crowded with younger players than Myers right now, so it will be interesting to see how much playing time he gets if he's activated. He is still not eligible for salary arbitration until 2027, but his role on the team going forward is uncertain. He could get a chance to show his worth in the final few weeks of the season, though, as long as his rehab goes smoothly.
Source: Kevin Barral
Miami Marlins outfielder Source: Kevin Barral
Keenan Allen Still Showing Starting Potential
Keenan Allen is once again showing he can be a starting option in his first year back with L.A. After a big Week 1 that included 10 targets and a touchdown catch, the veteran naturally saw a big uptick in waiver-wire adds and managers inserting him into starting lineups, and for good reason. At age 33, Allen fell in drafts following a chaotic season with a Chicago Bears team that started a rookie quarterback and fired its coach mid-season. Now with an organization with stability at coach and quarterback, Allen has consistent WR3/flex potential. It's clear that Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert trusts him, and after Week 1, it's also clear there's more than a little left in the tank.
Source: RotoBaller
Long a productive fantasy wide receiver, Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Connor Norby Will Start Rehab Assignment on Thursday
Connor Norby (quadriceps) has made a quick recovery from his left quad strain, and he could be ready to come off the injured list when he's first eligible on Sunday. He'll start a rehab assignment on Thursday in Triple-A Jacksonville. Norby has been limited to just 77 games this season due to multiple injuries, hitting .247 with six homers, seven stolen bases, 36 runs scored, and a .294 wOBA. He went 6-for-18 (.333) with three doubles in his five games with the team after recovering from a broken hamate bone that kept him sidelined since the All-Star break. If Norby can get back in the lineup and stay healthy, he'll be worth a look if you need some infield help for the last few weeks of the season.
Source: Kevin Barral
Miami Marlins third baseman Source: Kevin Barral
Kayshon Boutte a Sensible Waiver-Wire Add
Kayshon Boutte (shoulder) remains an intriguing waiver-wire option despite the injury as his team is set to take on the Miami Dolphins in Week 2. The talent has always been visible for the LSU product, but the third-year pro appears to be developing a real chemistry with New England quarterback Drake Maye. Boutte finished the 2024 season with 16 catches for 240 yards and two touchdowns in the final three games, and started 2025 with a 103-yard showing. The Pats brought in Stefon Diggs and still roster DeMario Douglas, both of whom are factors, though Boutte is showing legitimate fantasy potential. His shoulder ailment is worth watching in Week 2, but he's shown some season-long potential that could strengthen a manager's bench.
Source: RotoBaller
New England Patriots wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Jonathan Aranda Cleared to Resume Baseball Activities
Jonathan Aranda (wrist) had a checkup on his fractured wrist on Wednesday and is progressing in his recovery. He has started playing catch and hitting off a tee and will continue to ramp up his activities after his positive checkup. Manager Kevin Cash said the team isn't sure if he'll be able to return this season, but it's a great sign that the 27-year-old lefty is on the road to recovery and should be fully healthy for next season. Before the injury, Aranda was having his long-awaited breakout season, hitting .316 with 12 homers, 54 RBI, and a .377 wOBA in his 103 games. He should be a key part of the Rays lineup when he's ready to return, whether that's before the end of this season or for the start of 2026.
Source: Marc Topkin
Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Source: Marc Topkin
Jonny DeLuca Will Miss the Rest of the Season
Jonny DeLuca (hamstring) will not return to the team this season after suffering a setback in his rehab, according to Rays manager Kevin Cash. DeLuca has been on the injured list with a hamstring injury since early August and suffered a quad strain while working his way back in Triple-A Durham. DeLuca showed some promising upside during the 2024 season, but only played 20 games this year, hitting .333 with no home runs but six stolen bases and a .350 wOBA. He missed time early in the season with a shoulder injury as well, and it isn't clear how the 27-year-old righty fits in with the Rays' future plans in the outfield, where they have several strong prospects. He'll work to come to Spring Training next year fully healthy and ready to contribute, but his 2025 season is unfortunately over.
Source: Marc Topkin
Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Source: Marc Topkin
Quarterback Jayden Daniels Off Injury Report
Jayden Daniels (wrist) is off the team's injury report, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapport. Washington coach Dan Quinn downplayed the QB's throwing-wrist injury earlier this week, and it appears his lack of concern came to fruition, as Daniels will suit up when Washington takes on Green Bay on Thursday Night Football. The Washington offense was slow to start in an unremarkable season-opening win against the New York Giants, but Daniels remains one of the very best options in any fantasy format due to his consistent rushing ability. He's still a starting option even against a tough Packers defense.
Source: NFL Network
Washington Commanders quarterback Source: NFL Network
Adolis Garcia Could Be Activated This Weekend
Adolis Garcia (quad) is making significant progress and was able to take batting practice on the field on Tuesday. He landed on the injured list with a strained quad that has kept him out since September 1, but he may not need much more than the minimum time on the injured list. The Rangers are just 1.5 games behind the Mariners for the third AL Wild Card spot and just 2.5 games behind the Astros for the division lead. Getting Garcia back sooner than expected would be a huge boost for the Rangers' lineup, which is already seriously injury-depleted. Garcia was heating up, going 14-for-38 (.368) with two homers and three stolen bases in his nine games before landing on the injured list. He'll look to pick up where he left off, potentially against the Mets this weekend.
Source: Kennedi Landry
Texas Rangers outfielder Source: Kennedi Landry
William Contreras Will Be Evaluated Friday
William Contreras (forearm) was originally in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rangers but was scratched due to a forearm contusion. He suffered the injury when he was hit by a pitch on Tuesday and will get two days off since the Brew Crew has a scheduled off-day on Thursday. He'll be re-evaluated on Friday before the team opens its next series against the Cardinals at home on Friday night. Contreras has hit .263 with 17 homers and a .337 wOBA in his 140 games this season and is almost always in the lineup. Hopefully, he'll be able to get back in the mix for the weekend, but keep an eye on the injury to make sure it checks out to be as minor as it appears to be at this point.
Source: Adam McCalvy
Milwaukee Brewers catcher Source: Adam McCalvy
Brock Purdy Out 2-5 Weeks With Turf Toe
Brock Purdy (toe) will miss the next two to five weeks with turf toe. Purdy appeared on the team's injury report with a toe and left shoulder injury on Wednesday. However, it seems this injury is more serious than expected, and the team's QB1 could miss up to the next two weeks of action. As a result, Mac Jones is slated to serve as the starting quarterback for the foreseeable future. In the season opener, Purdy went 26-for-35 with 277 passing yards and two scores en route to defeating the Seattle Seahawks. Last season, Jones saw starting opportunities filling in for the injured Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville. Jones averaged 205.5 passing yards in the eight games in which he logged more than 40 offensive snaps in 2024. He projects to be a risky QB2 in all fantasy formats in Week 2, facing the Saints.
Source: Ian Rapoport
According to Ian Rapport of the NFL Network, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Source: Ian Rapoport
Lauri Markkanen Big at Both Ends as Finland Books Place in EuroBasket Semis
Lauri Markkanen scored 17 points and had four blocks as Finland defeated Georgia 93-79 in the EuroBasket quarterfinals. He also contributed six rebounds and two assists while shooting very effectively from the field. The former All-Star went 2-for-5 from three-point range and finished 7-for-12 overall from the field. Markkanen has looked sharp and healthy while playing for his country, which should give fantasy managers hope that he can return to his All-Star level of play during the upcoming NBA season. With Finland, Markkanen has averaged 24.7 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.6 steals at EuroBasket.
Source: FIBA
Utah Jazz forward Source: FIBA
Luka Doncic Notches 39 Points in Losing Effort
Luka Doncic put up a game-high 39 points on 11-for-25 shooting in Slovenia's 99-91 loss to Germany in the EuroBasket 2025 quarterfinals. Docic dropped five three-point bombs on the Germans and went close to his second triple-double of the tournament, picking up 10 rebounds and seven assists. However, with no other NBA talent on his squad, Doncic couldn't lead Slovenia past a German team that features Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder. Doncic will be disappointed with how things ended for Slovenia, but he played outstandingly throughout. The Lakers star averaged a competition-high 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 2.7 steals in 34.7 minutes. He will now get some time off before starting his first full campaign in L.A.
Source: FIBA
Los Angeles Lakers point guard Source: FIBA
Cam Reddish Expected to Move to Europe
Cam Reddish looks set to start the 2025-26 season in Europe. Sources have told Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews that Reddish is in advanced talks with BC Siauliai in Lithuania. The team is coached by former NBA player and assistant coach Darius Songaila. Reddish's contract reportedly includes an out clause, allowing him to leave if he receives an NBA offer or an opportunity to join a team in a better league. Reddish was a starter for the Los Angeles Lakers not long ago and won the NBA Cup with the team in 2023. However, he was waived in March. The former top-10 pick has averaged 8.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.0 steals for his NBA career, making 254 appearances with four teams.
Source: BasketNews
Guard/forward Source: BasketNews
DJ Moore Logs Full Practice on Wednesday
DJ Moore (abdomen/groin) was listed as a full participant during Wednesday's practice session. The 28-year-old appeared to have suffered this injury in the fourth quarter of their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings. However, seeing him log a full practice on Wednesday suggests the 28-year-old is not in any danger of missing their next game against the Detroit Lions. In their loss to the Vikings, Moore caught three of his five targets for 68 yards. Second-year wideout Rome Odunze appears to have emerged as Caleb Williams's top target as he saw nine targets in this contest. Despite this, Moore projects to be a low-end WR2/high-end WR3 in a potentially high-scoring game against the Detroit Lions this Sunday.
Source: Chicago Bears
Chicago Bears wide receiver Source: Chicago Bears
NFL Looking into Tyreek Hill's Domestic-Violence Allegations
Tyreek Hill. Florio noted that this is standard policy for the NFL. Hill's estranged wife, Keeta Vaccaro, accused Hill of eight instances of domestic violence. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor this situation as the league could look to discipline the wideout after this investigation concludes. In the season opener, Hill had a quiet day as the entire Miami offense had struggled, as he caught just four of his six targets for 40 yards. Hill had a disappointing 2024 season as well, tallying just 959 yards and six touchdowns. For the time being, Hill is not in any danger of missing their contest on Sunday against the New England Patriots.
Source: Pro Football Talk
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the NFL has begun a review of the recent domestic violence allegations against Miami Dolphins wide receiver Source: Pro Football Talk
Trey Lyles Joins Real Madrid
Trey Lyles has signed a one-year contract with Real Madrid. The 29-year-old decided to move to Europe after playing 10 seasons in the NBA. Lyles has been a solid contributor wherever he has played, averaging 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 19.6 minutes with the Sacramento Kings last season. Overall, Lyles has racked up 650 games with five different teams. He will bring a wealth of experience and talent to a Real team aiming to bounce back from a disappointing EuroLeague campaign. Lyles will reportedly pocket $3.2 million with his deal at Real. His contract includes an NBA out clause, giving him the option to return to the Association when the right offer comes.
Source: Real Madrid
Forward Source: Real Madrid
Kyle Monangai to See More Carries Going Forward?
Kyle Monangai more opportunities in the future. When asked about Monangai's usage on Monday, given that he logged nine snaps without any carries, Johnson expressed that "I need to call more runs" and "I need to call more so that we get him in the game a little bit more. That's something EB and I have talked about, making sure he has more carries going forward." In their season opener against the Vikings, veteran D'Andre Swift ran the ball 17 times and caught three passes. Monangai, the seventh-round rookie out of Rutgers, caught his lone target for 11 yards. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues should consider stashing Monangai as it appears he could carve into Swift's role as the season progresses.
Source: Courtney Cronin
According to Courtney Cronin of ESPN, Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson may look to give rookie running back Source: Courtney Cronin
Quinshon Judkins Plans to Practice Thursday
Quinshon Judkins was slated to practice with the team on Wednesday, but was unable to attend as he was meeting with league officials regarding his domestic battery arrest that occurred in the summer. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network noted that Judkins plans to practice on Thursday and Friday, and the team will determine his availability for Sunday's contest. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported that there has yet to be a definite timeline regarding his current investigation with the league. As a result, fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status, but the former second-round pick may miss Sunday's game as well if he is unable to be built up to game speed over the next few days. If he were to sit out, fellow rookie Dylan Sampson would likely serve as the leader of the backfield once again in Week 2.
Source: Ian Rapoport
Cleveland Browns rookie running back Source: Ian Rapoport
Charles Bassey Signs Exhibit 10 Deal With Hawks
Charles Bassey has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Atlanta Hawks, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reports. The 24-year-old will compete for a roster spot on a team that appears somewhat shorthanded in the frontcourt. Since making his NBA debut in 2021, Bassey has played in 113 regular-season games. Last season, he made a career-high 36 appearances with the San Antonio Spurs, finishing with average numbers of 4.4 points and 4.2 rebounds in 10.4 minutes. Bassey could be a useful addition for the Hawks, but he doesn't offer any fantasy value.
Source: Michael Scotto
Forward/center Source: Michael Scotto
Terence Davis Waived by Kings
Terence Davis on Wednesday. Per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Davis had a contract that would have become guaranteed with the first game of the season. The 28-year-old has 228 regular-season contests under his belt but made only one appearance with the Kings in 2024-25. In the G League, Davis notched 14.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game with the Wisconsin Herd. There's a chance Davis joins another team for training camp, or he might seek playing opportunities overseas.
Source: Michael Scotto
The Sacramento Kings waived guard
Source: Michael Scotto