February 9, 2026

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (knee) will sit out Monday against Minnesota after being added to the injury report earlier in the day and ruled inactive with left knee inflammation. His absence creates a short-term opening across Atlanta's frontcourt. Onyeka Okongwu is positioned for a heavier workload and remains the primary fantasy beneficiary after posting 16 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two blocks in 31 minutes in his last outing. Zaccharie Risacher and Corey Kispert should also see steadier minutes, while Johnson remains a firm hold once healthy.--Brian Dailisan
Source: Brad Rowland

February 9, 2026

Boston Red Sox right-hander Johan Oviedo's career 4.24 ERA, 4.61 FIP, and 15-26 record don't jump off the page, but an improvement in his fastball last year intrigued the Red Sox enough to trade for him this offseason, according to Mike Petriello of MLB.com. Oviedo returned from Tommy John surgery that cost him all of 2024 to record a 3.57 ERA and 1.21 WHIP with 42 strikeouts and 23 walks in 40 1/3 innings over nine starts with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2025. His fastball had a minus-12 run value, a bottom-20 mark, in 2023. Despite a hard fastball, Oviedo had among the worst vertical movement on the pitch. When Oviedo returned in August of last year, he added five inches of rise to his fastball and increased his whiff rate on the pitch from 19% in 2023 to 31%. The 27-year-old's 14% walk rate was still ugly, but if he can stay healthy, he could be a nice sleeper in deeper leagues in Boston's starting rotation.--Keith Hernandez
Source: MLB.com - Mike Petriello

February 9, 2026

Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (ankle) is available to play ahead of Monday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks. Carter will shed a questionable tag and will suit up despite dealing with left ankle soreness. There is no word of a minutes limit, so fantasy managers should expect Carter to be a full-go for Monday's contest. Carter has been struggling lately, with 6.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 23.3 minutes over his last four games. Fantasy managers should hold him through his struggles and hope he bounces out of his slump soon.--Andy Webb
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 9, 2026

Chicago Bulls forward/center Jalen Smith (calf) will miss Monday's game against Brooklyn, marking his second straight absence as he continues to recover from a right calf strain. With Nikola Vucevic traded, Smith still carries long-term hold value, even as his injury shuffles Chicago's center short-term. Guerschon Yabusele is the primary beneficiary and profiles as a viable streamer. He started Saturday against Denver and logged 26 minutes with 12 points, four 3-pointers, two rebounds, one steal, and two blocks. Nick Richards remains a deeper option, while Yabusele offers short-term value in points, triples, and defensive stats.--Brian Dailisan
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 9, 2026

Chicago White Sox general manager Chris Getz said that both young catchers Edgar Quero and Kyle Teel will work exclusively as catchers in 2026, according to Bruce Levine of 670 The Score. Teel, a former 14th overall pick by the Boston Red Sox in 2023 out of Virginia, has the higher fantasy baseball ceiling as a low-end starting catching option in single-catcher leagues. The 23-year-old left-handed hitter made his MLB debut in 2025 and hit .273/.375/.411 with a .786 OPS, eight home runs, 35 RBI, and 38 runs in 253 at-bats. Quero was in the big leagues in Chicago before Teel, but Teel saw most of the playing time behind the dish against righties. Quero, 22, hit .268/.333/.356 with a .689 OPS, five homers, 36 RBI, and 31 runs in 365 at-bats. Teel should be a solid source of on-base percentage at the catching position against lefties in what could be a platoon in the Windy City.--Keith Hernandez
Source: 670 The Score - Bruce Levine

February 9, 2026

Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Ryne Nelson was the team's most consistent starting pitcher last year, compiling a 3.39 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 132:41 K:BB, and 127 ERA+ in 154 innings over 33 appearances (23 starts). Nelson wasn't in the Opening Day rotation, but he quickly joined the rotation after Corbin Burnes' season-ending Tommy John surgery in May. Arizona didn't let Nelson throw 100 pitches in a start until Aug. 5 last year as the team looked to keep him healthy. According to MLB.com's Steve Gilbert, Nelson made it a priority this offseason to get physically stronger so he can "handle the rigors of making 30 or more starts." He's added muscle and reduced some body fat while also working to develop his slider and curveball. The 28-year-old should be a rotation lock for at least the first half of 2026, and he could become more of a top-of-the-rotation arm for the D-backs if his secondary offerings take a step forward.--Keith Hernandez
Source: MLB.com - Steve Gilbert

February 9, 2026

Chicago Bulls guards Josh Giddey (hamstring) and Tre Jones (hamstring) will both sit out Monday against Brooklyn, keeping Chicago's backcourt thin heading into the final week before the All-Star break. Giddey is set to miss a seventh straight game, while Jones remains unavailable as his absence stretches toward double digits. Their continued absence locks in expanded roles for Anfernee Simons, Jaden Ivey, and Collin Sexton. In Saturday's loss to Denver, Simons played 33 minutes with 15 points, three triples, four rebounds, and six assists, while Sexton scored 17 points in 29 minutes. Simons is the safest short-term stream, with Ivey offering upside in steals.--Brian Dailisan
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 9, 2026

Los Angeles Rams assistant head coach and passing-game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant will interview for the defensive-coordinator jobs with the Arizona Cardinals and Cleveland Browns, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Pleasant has worked with five different teams (Rams, Washington Commanders, Browns, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers) since starting his NFL coaching career back in 2013, but he has never been a defensive coordinator. The more attractive job is definitely in Cleveland, where the reigning Defensive Player of the Year resides in pass-rusher Myles Garrett. Pleasant was also interviewed for the Los Angeles Chargers' defensive-coordinator position this offseason before they chose Chris O'Leary for the gig. He has spent the last three seasons in L.A. coaching under Sean McVay.--Keith Hernandez
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

February 9, 2026

The Cleveland Browns have requested permission to interview New York Giants assistant coach Charlie Bullen for their defensive-coordinator job, a source told Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network. Bullen is also in the mix for the defensive-coordinator position with the Arizona Cardinals. He took over as the Giants' interim DC last season when the team fired Shane Bowen, but he was unable to land the full-time DC gig after John Harbaugh took over as the new head coach. Bullen has 13 years of coaching experience in the NFL, but he's never been a defensive coordinator. He got his start as a defensive assistant with the Miami Dolphins in 2012. The Browns are looking for a new DC after Jim Schwartz resigned because he was passed over for the head-coaching opening. Cleveland's defense already has a strong base to work with, including Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett.--Keith Hernandez
Source: NFL Network - Mike Garafolo

February 9, 2026

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler spoke to several people in the NFL who believe that Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton will eventually relinquish offensive play-calling duties to new offensive coordinator Davis Webb. Webb, a former backup quarterback with the Buffalo Bills, has been a fast riser in the coaching ranks and had multiple head-coaching interviews this cycle. The decision will be up to Payton, but nothing has been decided for now. Payton has called plays at a high level for decades, but his decisions came under scrutiny in the AFC Championship game loss to the New England Patriots. Webb took over the OC job in Denver following the firing of Joe Lombardi. Handing over play-calling duties to Webb might be another way for the Broncos to hang onto the coveted coach beyond the 2026 campaign, and they could potentially be grooming him to take over head-coaching duties if Payton decides to retire down the road.--Keith Hernandez
Source: ESPN.com - Jeremy Fowler

February 9, 2026

The Chicago Bears promoted passing-game coordinator Press Taylor to offensive coordinator on Sunday, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Taylor was an offensive coordinator with the Jacksonville Jaguars until 2024 before working with head coach Ben Johnson in Chicago last year. He'll receive the promotion to OC with Declan Doyle leaving to become the new OC with the Baltimore Ravens. During Taylor's time in Jacksonville, quarterback Trevor Lawrence took a step back, so it's not exactly inspiring news for Bears QB Caleb Williams as he heads into his third year in the NFL. The good news for Bears fans is that Johnson will almost certainly continue to call the offensive plays in 2026. Taylor got his start as an NFL coach as an offensive quality control coach with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2013 to 2015 before being promoted to assistant QBs coach in 2016 and 2017 and QBs coach in 2018 to 2020. He also worked as a senior offensive assistant with the Colts in 2021.--Keith Hernandez
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

February 9, 2026

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba caught four of his 10 targets for 27 yards during Sunday's Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots. Just a few days after being named the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year, Smith-Njigba was held in check by a historic defensive performance from Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez. While the young receiver was smothered, this simply redirected more volume to Cooper Kupp and running back Kenneth Walker III, who both fueled the victory. Fantasy managers should expect that Smith-Njigba, who had 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns during the regular season, will continue to get plenty of attention from the NFL's top cornerbacks going forward. He was relatively quiet in a tough matchup on Sunday night, but he should overcome most of those challenging situations in 2026 -- very similar to how he performed during the 2025 regular season. He enters 2026 fantasy drafts as a top-three receiver in all leagues.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

The Boston Red Sox have reportedly tried to trade for Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto, but the Angels have set a very high bar for him. The Red Sox were unable to re-sign third baseman Alex Bregman in free agency, but they have traded for first baseman Willson Contreras and third baseman Caleb Durbin to boost their infield depth this offseason. Neto would be a clear upgrade over the injury-prone and aging Trevor Story, but Boston would likely have to part with several high-end prospects to land him. As things currently stand, Durbin and Marcelo Mayer figure to compete for playing time at third base, with Story at the 6 and Kristian Campbell manning the keystone. Neto has emerged as one of the best young shortstops in the game after hitting a combined .253/.318/.458 with a .776 OPS, 49 home runs, 139 RBI, 152 runs scored, and 56 stolen bases in the last two seasons.--Keith Hernandez
Source: Jamie Gatlin

February 9, 2026

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp caught six of his 12 targets for 61 yards during Sunday's Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots. Kupp led the Seahawks' receiving corps in all three of those categories, taking those responsibilities from Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Smith-Njigba was smothered by Christian Gonzalez for most of the game, and he also missed a small portion of the game for a concussion check. Kupp has now won two Super Bowls in five years. He got his first ring with the Rams, and now, he gets his second ring at the culmination of his first campaign in Seattle. He finished the regular season with a modest 47 catches for 593 yards and two touchdowns, but he produced when it mattered most under the international spotlight on Sunday night. Kupp should remain in the No. 2 receiver role for next season, but he ranks outside the top 36 receivers ahead of 2026 fantasy football drafts.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

The Milwaukee Brewers acquired left-hander Kyle Harrison, infielder David Hamilton, and pitcher Shane Drohan from the Boston Red Sox on Monday in exchange for third baseman Caleb Durbin, shortstop Andruw Monasterio, third baseman Anthony Seigler, and a Compensation B draft pick, sources told Jeff Passan of ESPN. Harrison, 24, went from the San Francisco Giants to the Red Sox last year in the trade that involved infielder Rafael Devers, and now he's on the move again. The former third-round pick only appeared in 11 games (six starts) for the Giants and BoSox in 2025, posting a 4.04 ERA and 1.37 WHIP with 38 strikeouts and 14 walks in 35 2/3 frames. It wasn't a great sign that Harrison's walk rate sat at 11.8% at Triple-A Worcester last year, but the Brew Crew will try to get more out of him. Harrison will be in the mix for the competition for one of the final rotation spots in Milwaukee in spring training this year.--Keith Hernandez
Source: ESPN.com - Jeff Passan

February 9, 2026

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson rushed for 23 yards on seven carries during Sunday's Super Bowl LX loss against the Seattle Seahawks. He also caught all five of his targets for an additional 40 receiving yards. Stevenson struggled rushing the ball, but he remained involved and effective in the passing game as New England prioritized shorter pass attempts over deep shots downfield. This was a familiar trend for Stevenson, who essentially won back the primary ball-carrier role after returning from injury in late November. Even with second-round rookie Tre'Veyon Henderson in the mix, Stevenson tallied 603 rushing yards, 32 catches, 345 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns across 14 contests. He averaged 12.8 full-PPR points per game, finishing the year as the overall RB25. Henderson should get even more involved next season, but Stevenson will still have a sizable role. He enters 2026 fantasy drafts as a mid-to-low RB3/flex option.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

Boston Red Sox infielder Romy Gonzalez (shoulder) is dealing with shoulder inflammation that popped up during the end of the regular season and got worse in early offseason workouts, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Gonzalez said he received a platelet-rich plasma injection 2 1/2 weeks ago. He's currently behind schedule, but the goal remains to be ready for Opening Day. The 29-year-old former 18th-round pick by the Chicago White Sox in 2018 out of the University of Miami slashed .305/.343/.483 with an .826 OPS, nine home runs, 53 RBI, 47 runs scored, and six stolen bases in 96 regular-season games in 2025 in his second year with Boston. Gonzalez had an impressive 99th-percentile hard-hit rate and 123 wRC+ in what was a breakout year, and he also dominated left-handed pitchers with a .331 average. Playing time will be the biggest issue for Gonzalez, who figures to open the season in a utility infield role if he's healthy.--Keith Hernandez
Source: MassLive.com - Chris Cotillo

February 9, 2026

Houston Astros All-Star closer Josh Hader (shoulder) has been throwing lightly and on flat ground as spring training begins for the Astros, according to Buster Olney of ESPN. Hader and the Astros hope to learn more about where he stands in his preparation for the 2026 season in the middle of this week. The 31-year-old southpaw missed the last seven-plus weeks of last season with a left-shoulder strain, but he said earlier in the offseason that he feels "back to normal," and he should be ready for Opening Day, barring a setback in spring training. Hader is a bit more of a risk for fantasy managers entering the 2026 campaign, but with his nasty fastball/slider mix, he showed last year before his shoulder injury that he's still one of the most dominant closers in the game. He held a 2.05 ER and 0.85 WHIP with a 29.1 K-BB percentage, which was fifth among qualified relievers. If Hader has a setback before or during the season, Bryan Abreu would likely be the favorite to take over the closing job in Houston.--Keith Hernandez
Source: ESPN - Buster Olney

February 9, 2026

Arizona Diamondbacks left-handed reliever Andrew Saalfrank (shoulder) posted a photo of himself on Monday on his Instagram account and announced that he underwent shoulder surgery, according to Alex D'Agostino of Sports Illustrated. MLB.com's Steve Gilbert reports that Saalfrank will miss the entire 2026 season. The 28-year-old southpaw was a key bullpen piece during the team's 2023 run to the World Series. The former sixth-round pick made a career-high 28 relief appearances for the Snakes last year, posting a 1.24 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, his first three career saves, five holds, 19 strikeouts, and 10 walks in 29 innings pitched. Saalfrank's injury is another blow to a banged-up Diamondbacks bullpen that will also be without relievers Justin Martinez (elbow) and A.J. Puk (elbow) for a good chunk of the 2026 season.--Keith Hernandez
Source: Sports Illustrated - Alex D'Agostino

February 9, 2026

Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler (shoulder) is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day this year, but the team is hopeful he'll be back shortly after, according to manager Rob Thomson. Wheeler is recovering from venous thoracic outlet surgery, which is the less severe version of the surgery. Still, the 35-year-old most likely won't be a part of Philly's Opening Day rotation in 2026 even though he resumed throwing back in December. If Wheeler doesn't have any setbacks through spring training, fantasy managers should have the right-handed ace at some point in April. The three-time All-Star was limited to 24 starts with the Phillies in 2025 in his sixth year with the team, going 10-5 with a 2.71 ERA and 0.93 WHIP with 195 strikeouts and 33 walks in 149 2/3 innings pitched. Wheeler has been one of the most consistent high-end starting pitchers in baseball in recent years, but there's no guarantee he'll bounce back to that form after his surgery. Proceed with caution.--Keith Hernandez
Source: USA TODAY Sports - Bob Nightengale

February 9, 2026

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed 27 of his 43 pass attempts for 295 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions during Sunday's Super Bowl loss against the Seattle Seahawks. He also rushed for 37 yards, took six sacks, and lost a fumble. Maye had a spectacular season, putting together an MVP-caliber campaign during just his second year in the NFL. He remained successful throughout most of the postseason, adapting to a mix of weather conditions while taking down three top defenses en route to a Super Bowl berth. However, the hot streak ended there, as Maye was stymied by an elite Seattle defense. His three turnovers were momentum-killers in a game that had 15 punts and five field goals. He struggled with ball placement when passing, too, and his passing yard total isn't exactly indicative of the game he had. In fact, 235 of Maye's 295 passing yards came in the fourth quarter, setting a new Super Bowl single-quarter record as he took advantage of the Seahawks playing a more relaxed style of defense in the final minutes. Arguably, the best part of Maye's game was his five rushing attempts, which often moved the chains and gave New England a glimmer of hope. Still, Maye's struggles when passing and inability to handle pressure in a collapsing pocket cost New England the game. He'll enter the offseason with his work cut out for him, especially as the Patriots prepare for a tougher schedule in 2026. Maye might not replicate his 2025 stats next year, but he's still a safe bet to rank among the top five quarterbacks in 2026 fantasy football drafts.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that it's "not impossible" that the Las Vegas Raiders trade All-Pro pass-rusher Maxx Crosby (knee) before the start of free agency in March. Crosby is around a month into his recovery from surgery on his meniscus, which typically carries a recovery time of three to four months. The 28-year-old has spent his entire seven-year career with the Raiders, but it remains to be seen if he wants to stick around for another rebuild with a new coaching staff under head coach Klint Kubiak. Crosby is ahead of schedule in his recovery from knee surgery, but he's unlikely to be medically cleared before free agency officially begins on March 11. It means that if Crosby is traded, it likely wouldn't be until later, perhaps at the 2026 NFL Draft or before the regular season. When healthy, he's been one of the league's best pass-rushers, earning five straight Pro Bowl nods and racking up 69.5 career sacks. Crosby would generate significant interest around the league if the Raiders are serious about trading him.--Keith Hernandez
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport

February 9, 2026

According to Farbod Esnaashari of Sports Illustrated, guard Bennedict Mathurin will make his Los Angeles Clippers debut against Houston on Tuesday. The 23-year-old was acquired from Indiana at the trade deadline. Mathurin is expected to have a significant role with his new club, playing alongside Kawhi Leonard. He's averaged 17.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 31.8 minutes across 28 outings so far this season.--Andrew Lennox
Source: Farbod Esnaashari

February 9, 2026

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold completed 19 of his 38 pass attempts for 202 yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions during Sunday's Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots. He also rushed for five yards and took just one sack. The veteran signal-caller didn't make a ton of breathtaking plays, but more importantly, he played turnover-free football while letting the defense and rushing attack win the big game. It was a storybook moment for Darnold, who started his career as a so-called first-round "bust" in New York. His NFL voyage took him through Carolina, San Francisco, and Minnesota before he signed with the Seahawks last offseason. During his first year in Seattle, he played all 17 regular-season games, completing 67.7% of his pass attempts for 4,048 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. For the second year in a row, he eclipsed 4,000 passing yards and was named to the Pro Bowl. With Jaxon Smith-Njigba at his disposal and a fantastic offensive line in front of him, Darnold should be due for more success in the future. He'll rank as a fringe top-14 quarterback entering 2026 fantasy football drafts.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III rushed for 135 yards on 27 carries during Sunday's Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots. He also caught two of four targets for an additional 26 receiving yards. Walker's spectacular postseason culminated in a terrific showing on the world's biggest stage. He averaged five yards per carry and broke off several big runs that helped the Seahawks clinch a Super Bowl title. For his efforts, he was also named Super Bowl MVP. Walker had a very impressive 2025 campaign, and it came during a contract year. For the first time in his career, he was healthy for all 17 regular-season games. He tallied 1,309 scrimmage yards and five touchdowns while splitting work with Zach Charbonnet during the regular season, and he put the rushing workload on his back after Charbonnet tore his ACL during Seattle's first playoff game. Walker will now enter free agency as arguably the top running back available, alongside players like Travis Etienne Jr. and Breece Hall. Walker's landing spot will paint a better picture of his fantasy value in 2026 drafts, but for now, he's a solid top-12 running back in all redraft formats, especially if he ends up back in Seattle.--Andersen Pickard
Source: RotoBaller

February 9, 2026

On Monday, Michael Scotto of USA Today reports that Indiana Pacers forward/guard Johnny Furphy (knee) will miss the remainder of the season due to sustaining a torn right ACL. Across 31 outings, the 21-year-old averaged 5.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 0.7 three-pointers in 18.4 minutes per game. Now that Furphy is out for the forseeable future, Ben Sheppard and Quenton Jackson will be relied upon to take on expanded roles.--Andrew Lennox
Source: Michael Scotto

February 9, 2026

Orlando Magic small forward Franz Wagner (ankle) is set to suit up Monday against the Milwaukee Bucks. The 29-year-old has missed nine consecutive contests due to a sprained left ankle. In his return, Wagner will probably play less than the 32.8 minutes he's averaged this campaign. Anthony Black could continue to see an expanded role this evening, giving fantasy managers a solid option until Wagner is ready to take on his regular workload.--Andrew Lennox
Source: Orlando Magic

February 9, 2026

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (knee) is available for Monday's matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Ayton missed Saturday's 105-99 win over Golden State due to a sore right knee. However, he has been cleared to play against the defending champions. With Ayton back in action, big men Jaxson Hayes and Maxi Kleber's minutes could be significantly reduced during tonight's contest.--Andrew Lennox
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 9, 2026

Sacramento Kings forward Doug McDermott (shoulder) is active for Monday's matchup with the New Orleans Pelicans. McDermott will play through right shoulder soreness and will come off the bench. The 34-year-old veteran forward has seen action in just nine games this season while averaging 9.3 minutes per contest. Still, during tonight's tilt, he could get extended minutes as Zach LaVine (finger) and Malik Monk (illness) are both sidelined.--Andrew Lennox
Source: NBA Injury Report

February 9, 2026

Sacramento Kings forward/center Domantas Sabonis (back) will not play against the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday, marking his third consecutive missed contest due to a back injury. With Sabonis sidelined, Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell are expected to take on expanded roles. Raynaud should continue to serve as Sabonis' replacement in the starting lineup, while Cardwell is coming off a strong showing, posting a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double against Cleveland on Saturday. Given New Orleans' bottom-six ranking in fantasy points allowed to centers, both rookie big men are in a favorable spot to deliver streaming value Monday night.--Andrew Lennox
Source: NBA Injury Report