Wed Jul 3 10:36am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
Hurts was first quarterback picked
RealTime Fantasy Sports is proud to present you the results of our “Champions Draft." The draft this season once again consists of the top rated fantasy players on our site. We invited players rated near the top of our Top Fantasy Players report. So this is the best of the best on our site.
In this column, we'll give you a round-by-round look at the draft. Each round includes some notes on that round, talking about what just went down. Hopefully, this gives you some insight into the draft and helps prepare you for all your drafts this coming year.
Before we get to that, here is a quick overview of the league format. We used the same rules as we do for the "All-Pro" fantasy leagues on our site. So you can view the entire set of rules on our main page for that game. But here is a brief look. Each team starts a quarterback, two running backs, two receivers, a tight end, a defensive/special teams, a kicker and a flex player (RB, WR or TE). Scoring is pretty standard. Touchdowns are worth six except for passing touchdowns, which are worth four. And it is a points per reception league, giving every player a point per reception. Defenses get points for sacks, interceptions and fumble recoveries. The rules are pretty standard with how many leagues operate these days.
ROUND 1
1. Ballers - Christian McCaffrey RB, SF
2. Birds - CeeDee Lamb WR, DAL
3. CRUNCHY - Bijan Robinson RB, ATL
4. Super Paurs - Breece Hall RB, NYJ
5. Wreckingcrew - Tyreek Hill WR, MIA
6. PaurPlay - Justin Jefferson WR, MIN
7. Crusty GON Pod - Amon-Ra St. Brown WR, DET
8. Bubbles Army - Ja'Marr Chase WR, CIN
9. HORNS - Jahmyr Gibbs RB, DET
10. Goodfellas - Puka Nacua WR, LAR
11. Suncoast - A.J. Brown WR, PHI
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Saquon Barkley RB, PHI
NOTES: The first round was pretty chalk, going very similar to the current ADP. These savvy owners didn’t take many chances with the first round. There were five running backs and seven receivers picked in Round 1. It was not a surprise to see no tight ends or quarterbacks picked in the first round. The only mild surprise was seeing Jonathan Taylor failed to get picked this round. He normally goes at the end of the first round, but didn’t in this one.
ROUND 2
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Jonathan Taylor RB, IND
2. Suncoast - Garrett Wilson WR, NYJ
3. Goodfellas - Sam LaPorta TE, DET
4. HORNS - Travis Etienne RB, JAX
5. Bubbles Army - Davante Adams WR, LV
6. Crusty GON Pod - Chris Olave WR, NO
7. PaurPlay - Josh Jacobs RB, GB
8. Wreckingcrew - Kyren Williams RB, LAR
9. Super Paurs - Devon Achane RB, MIA
10. CRUNCHY - Derrick Henry RB, BAL
11. Birds - Isiah Pacheco RB, KC
12. Ballers - Marvin Harrison Jr. WR, ARI
NOTES: Sam LaPorta was the first tight end picked, getting taken by Suncoast this round. He went a tad sooner, having an ADP of 24.99 but he wasn’t going to last to Suncoast when he picked again, so he had to pull the trigger now if he wanted him on his roster. . . . This was a running back heavy round, seeing seven go off the board. This is normally a trend in many drafts with a lot of owners going receiver in the first round. . . .Isiah Pacheco might have been the only surprise running back of this round. The Birds selected him with the 11th pick. This wasn’t too far off his ADP, though, normally going pick 26.62. . . . .Marvin Harrison continues to be the first rookie picked on draft day. The Ballers picked him with the last pick, making him the 24th pick overall.
ROUND 3
1. Ballers - Drake London WR, ATL
2. Birds - Michael Pittman Jr. WR, IND
3. CRUNCHY - Nico Collins WR, HOU
4. Super Paurs - Deebo Samuel WR, SF
5. Wreckingcrew - James Cook RB, BUF
6. PaurPlay - Travis Kelce TE, KC
7. Crusty GON Pod - Rhamondre Stevenson RB, NE
8. Bubbles Army - Rachaad White RB, TB
9. HORNS - Stefon Diggs WR, HOU
10. Goodfellas - Joe Mixon RB, HOU
11. Suncoast - Mike Evans WR, TB
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Brandon Aiyuk WR, SF
NOTES: This round was a little more receiver heavy once again, having seven go off the board. This seems to be a trend in a lot of drafts, having owners get two receivers and a running back after three rounds. . . . .Travis Kelce is the second tight end picked, which is a little unusual for him, but definitely a trend. Kelce has an ADP of 30.8, going after LaPorta in most drafts. Paur Play is hoping he has at least one more big season in him. . . . .It is always interesting seeing how owners value the two top receivers for the Texans. Nico Collins went before Stefon Diggs in this draft. Collins was picked third this round by CRUNCHY while the HORNS picked Diggs with the ninth pick.
ROUND 4
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Jaylen Waddle WR, MIA
2. Suncoast - Jalen Hurts QB, PHI
3. Goodfellas - D.J. Moore WR, CHI
4. HORNS - DeVonta Smith WR, PHI
5. Bubbles Army - Josh Allen QB, BUF
6. Crusty GON Pod - D'Andre Swift RB, CHI
7. PaurPlay - Patrick Mahomes QB, KC
8. Wreckingcrew - D.K. Metcalf WR, SEA
9. Super Paurs - Amari Cooper WR, CLE
10. CRUNCHY - Kenneth Walker III RB, SEA
11. Birds - Lamar Jackson QB, BAL
12. Ballers - Trey McBride TE, ARI
NOTES: This was a quarterback heavy round, seeing four go off the board. Jalen Hurts was the first quarterback selected, getting picked by Suncoast. He went ahead of Josh Allen, who normally is the first quarterback picked in drafts. . . . .Trey McBride was the third tight end picked, going to the Ballers with the last pick in this round. McBride is flying up draft boards this year after this strong finish last season. He has an ADP of 48.2, so this spot for him is not out of the norm. . . .There was just two running backs picked this round after seeing at least four picked each of the first three rounds. D’Andre Swift and Kenneth Walker were the backs picked this round.
ROUND 5
1. Ballers - Zay Flowers WR, BAL
2. Birds - Mark Andrews TE, BAL
3. CRUNCHY - Aaron Jones RB, MIN
4. Super Paurs - Cooper Kupp WR, LAR
5. Wreckingcrew - C.J. Stroud QB, HOU
6. PaurPlay - Alvin Kamara RB, NO
7. Crusty GON Pod - Kyle Pitts TE, ATL
8. Bubbles Army - Dalton Kincaid TE, BUF
9. HORNS - Anthony Richardson QB, IND
10. Goodfellas - James Conner RB, ARI
11. Suncoast - David Montgomery RB, DET
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - George Kittle TE, SF
NOTES: David Montgomery was one of the top league winners last year but falls to the fifth round of this draft, going to Suncoast with the 11th pick. Fantasy owners have concerns for a repeat season from Montgomery, having an ADP of 68.9. This could end up being a make or break pick for the defending champ. . . . .Cooper Kupp is another polarizing figure this season. He was a very early pick last year, but goes to the Super Paurs with the fifth pick in Round 5. He has taken quite the fall in drafts, having an ADP of 46.5. . . .There were four tight ends pick this round. Dalton Kincaid is the biggest mover from last year. The Horns picked him with the eighth pick. Kincaid is normally the fifth tight end off the board, so Horns might have gotten a little value with him being the seventh tight end selected with this pick.
ROUND 6
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Malik Nabers WR, NYG
2. Suncoast - Najee Harris RB, PIT
3. Goodfellas - Jaylen Warren RB, PIT
4. HORNS - Zack Moss RB, CIN
5. Bubbles Army - Christian Kirk WR, JAX
6. Crusty GON Pod - George Pickens WR, PIT
7. PaurPlay - Calvin Ridley WR, TEN
8. Wreckingcrew - Jordan Love QB, GB
9. Super Paurs - Zamir White RB, LV
10. CRUNCHY - Tee Higgins WR, CIN
11. Birds - Jayden Reed WR, GB
12. Ballers - Tony Pollard RB, TEN
NOTES: The one pick that stands out in this round was the Birds taking Jayden Reed with the 11th pick. He has an ADP of 86.9, so they might have went a little early on Reed. He certainly has potential after scoring eight touchdowns his rookie season, but the Birds might have been able to get him a few rounds later. . . .The quarterback position slowed down a little this round with Jordan Love the only quarterback selected. He goes with the eight pick to Wreckingcrew. Love was fifth overall in fantasy quarterback scoring last year, so getting him after the elite guys are gone could turn out to be good value for Wreckingcrew. . . . .Some running backs that could be splitting work this year flew off the board. Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, Zack Moss, Zamir White and Tony Pollard were all picked. They all have some question marks about playing time but if one emerges, they could be great value in Round 6.
ROUND 7
1. Ballers - Terry McLaurin WR, WAS
2. Birds - Jonathon Brooks RB, CAR
3. CRUNCHY - Rashee Rice WR, KC
4. Super Paurs - Joe Burrow QB, CIN
5. Wreckingcrew - Evan Engram TE, JAX
6. PaurPlay - Diontae Johnson WR, CAR
7. Crusty GON Pod - Keenan Allen WR, CHI
8. Bubbles Army - Austin Ekeler RB, WAS
9. HORNS - Chris Godwin WR, TB
10. Goodfellas - Tank Dell WR, HOU
11. Suncoast - Javonte Williams RB, DEN
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Raheem Mostert RB, MIA
NOTES: Our first rookie running back was picked this round, seeing the Birds take Jonathan Brooks with the second pick. Brooks could start the year slow, recovering from his knee injury, but could be a huge factor down the stretch for the Birds. Brooks went around 10 spots later than normal, having an ADP of 64.3. . . .Rashee Rice is a player facing a possible multi-game suspension. If not for that, he would be going much higher. Instead, he falls to CRUNCHY with the third pick this round. Rice has an ADP of 81.6, so he goes about where he normally does in drafts. If he can end up avoiding a suspension, this pick will be a huge steal for CRUNCHY. . . .Raheem Mostert is another intriguing player to watch in drafts. He was a league winner for many last year but is not getting drafted like that. AlwaysBetOnBlack gets him with the last pick this round. Mostert has an ADP of 84.8, so most drafters are not betting on a repeat of his huge season.
ROUND 8
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Brian Robinson Jr. RB, WAS
2. Suncoast - Marquise Brown WR, KC
3. Goodfellas - Dak Prescott QB, DAL
4. HORNS - Nick Chubb RB, CLE
5. Bubbles Army - Devin Singletary RB, NYG
6. Crusty GON Pod - Tyjae Spears RB, TEN
7. PaurPlay - J.K. Dobbins RB, LAC
8. Wreckingcrew - Blake Corum RB, LAR
9. Super Paurs - David Njoku TE, CLE
10. CRUNCHY - Jake Ferguson TE, DAL
11. Birds - Christian Watson WR, GB
12. Ballers - Trey Benson RB, ARI
NOTES: Nick Chubb is returning from another major injury and lasts until the fourth pick of Round 8. He has big question marks, but the Horns could take a chance on him with three quality backs already on his roster. . . .The Ballers took a chance on rookie Trey Benson in Round 8. After taking Christian McCaffrey with the first pick, the Ballers filled up other positions on his roster before taking chances on running backs later in the draft. . . . .There were seven total running backs picked this round. Many owners are hoping to find that great mid-round value, looking for the Raheem Mostert of this season.
ROUND 9
1. Ballers - Zach Charbonnet RB, SEA
2. Birds - Ezekiel Elliott RB, DAL
3. CRUNCHY - Kyler Murray QB, ARI
4. Super Paurs - Ty Chandler RB, MIN
5. Wreckingcrew - DeAndre Hopkins WR, TEN
6. PaurPlay - Chase Brown RB, CIN
7. Crusty GON Pod - Caleb Williams QB, CHI
8. Bubbles Army - Jordan Addison WR, MIN
9. HORNS - T.J. Hockenson TE, MIN
10. Goodfellas - Gus Edwards RB, LAC
11. Suncoast - Courtland Sutton WR, DEN
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Trevor Lawrence QB, JAX
NOTES: Three quarterbacks go this round, giving every team at least one quarterback except one. Ballers is the only team that doesn’t have a quarterbacks after nine rounds. The three quarterbacks picked this round were Kyler Murray, rookie Caleb Williams and Trevor Lawrence. . . .Teams continues to load up on mid-round running backs with five getting of the 12 picks being running backs. None of these backs are sure things but both Ezekiel Elliott and Gus Edwards have some touchdown potential on their teams. . . .DeAndre Hopkins is not getting drafted as he was in the past. He goes with the fifth pick to Wreckingcrew. This spot is even later than normal for Hopkins, who has an ADP of 79.6.
ROUND 10
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Xavier Worthy WR, KC
2. Suncoast - Dallas Goedert TE, PHI
3. Goodfellas - Ladd McConkey WR, LAC
4. HORNS - Keon Coleman WR, BUF
5. Bubbles Army - Jaxon Smith-Njigba WR, SEA
6. Crusty GON Pod - Jerome Ford RB, CLE
7. PaurPlay - Jameson Williams WR, DET
8. Wreckingcrew - Rico Dowdle RB, DAL
9. Super Paurs - Mike Williams WR, NYJ
10. CRUNCHY - Brian Thomas Jr. WR, JAX
11. Birds - Curtis Samuel WR, BUF
12. Ballers - Brock Purdy QB, SF
NOTES: Round 10 is the round of the rookie. There were four rookie receivers picked this round, including Xavier Worthy, Ladd McConkey, Keon Coleman and Brian Thomas. These are four receivers that all have the chance to emerge as top playmakers in their respective offenses. . . . .Ballers is the last team to take a quarterback, picking Brock Purdy with the last pick in Round 10. Purdy was seventh overall in fantasy quarterback scoring last year. . . . Suncoast was the last team to select a tight end, taking Dallas Goedert with the second pick. Goedert can be erratic but has a high weekly ceiling in his offense.
ROUND 11
1. Ballers - Kendre Miller RB, NO
2. Birds - Josh Downs WR, IND
3. CRUNCHY - Rome Odunze WR, CHI
4. Super Paurs - Gabriel Davis WR, JAX
5. Wreckingcrew - Brandin Cooks WR, DAL
6. PaurPlay - Jahan Dotson WR, WAS
7. Crusty GON Pod - Cole Kmet TE, CHI
8. Bubbles Army - Brock Bowers TE, LV
9. HORNS - Jerry Jeudy WR, CLE
10. Goodfellas - Jayden Daniels QB, WAS
11. Suncoast - Tyler Lockett WR, SEA
12. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Brandon Aubrey K, DAL
NOTES: We had our first team take a second quarterback. Goodfellas took rookie Jayden Daniels with the 10th pick. They picked Dak Prescott two rounds earlier, giving him what could be a potent one-two punch at quarterback. . . .Our first kicker was picked. Brandon Aubrey was taken with the last pick this round by AlwaysBetOnBlack. It is a tad earlier than normal for our first kicker. Aubrey has an ADP of 133.1. . . .The top tight end in this year’s draft, Brock Bowers, was picked by Bubbles Army with the eighth pick. Bubbles is hoping Bowers is the Sam LaPorta of this year’s rookie class.
ROUND 12
1. AlwaysBetOnBlack - Dallas Cowboys Def/ST, DAL
2. Suncoast - Jakobi Meyers WR, LV
3. Goodfellas - Kimani Vidal RB, LAC
4. HORNS - Khalil Shakir WR, BUF
5. Bubbles Army - MarShawn Lloyd RB, GB
6. Crusty GON Pod - Antonio Gibson RB, NE
7. PaurPlay - Justin Herbert QB, LAC
8. Wreckingcrew - Pat Freiermuth TE, PIT
9. Super Paurs - Jared Goff QB, DET
10. CRUNCHY - Kirk Cousins QB, ATL
11. Birds - Tua Tagovailoa QB, MIA
12. Ballers - Chuba Hubbard RB, CAR
NOTES: AlwaysBetOnBlack took the first kicker and followed that by picking the first defense. The Cowboys defense is the first off the board, giving AlwaysBetOnBlack both the Cowboys kicker and defense. . . . .There were a couple rookie running backs picked this round. Kimani Vidal and MarShawn Lloyd don’t have a clear path to playing time with their respective teams but have some potential if given the opportunities. . . .Four teams took backup quarterbacks this round. It is interesting to see Justin Herbert fall so far, but he has question marks because of a new offense and lack of playmakers in the passing game.
Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at [email protected]. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Jameis Winston got the start in his team's 37-33 preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday. Winston played on the Browns' first two offensive drives, completing six of his nine passes for 63 yards while adding a six-yard run before taking a seat for the remainder of the evening. Winston will break camp as Cleveland's No. 2 quarterback, an important role for the Browns with questions still surrounding the health of Deshaun Watson's shoulder. While Winston doesn't need to be drafted in redraft leagues, he should at least be rostered in all dynasty superflex formats. With the preseason games concluded, the Browns will now gear up to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.
From RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns quarterback Tyler Huntley was productive in his team's preseason finale on Saturday. Huntley completed 17 of his 22 passes for 146 yards and three touchdowns while adding two carries for 14 yards in a 37-33 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The veteran signal-caller played the entire second half of the game, tossing two touchdowns to Michael Woods II and a third to James Proche. Huntley has been battling with Dorian Thompson-Robinson for the No.3 QB job throughout camp. The Browns have reportedly been floating Thompson-Robinson's name in potential trades, a sign that they feel comfortable with what they have seen from Huntley in the preseason.
From RotoBaller
Detroit Lions wide receiver Maurice Alexander caught all four of his targets for 60 yards in the preseason game on Saturday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Alexander caught two passes from Jake Fromm, who only completed six passes during the contest on Saturday, and two passes from Hendon Hooker. One of the passes from Hooker included a 29-yard bomb. After two good consecutive showings, Alexander could prove to be a dynasty stash and may have a role in this offense if the Lions need someone to come off the bench this season.
From RotoBaller
Detroit Lions running back Jake Funk led the backfield with 10 carries for 40 yards in the preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday. The 26-year-old also caught one of his four targets for a two-yard touchdown. Considering Funk only has four carries in his professional career and had an underwhelming first two preseason games, this big showing could help determine his future on this Lions team. Funk is not currently listed on the Lions depth chart and may not make the 53-man roster, but it could be a wildcard and a player to keep on your watchlist.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants running back Dante Miller led the team in rushing attempts in Saturday's loss to the Jets with 14. Miller's 45 rushing yards would have led the team had it not been for quarterback Tommy Devito's 48-yard day. With the Giants' regulars sitting in the preseason finale, the undrafted rookie out of South Carolina had plenty of runway to make his case for a roster spot ahead of Tuesday's cuts. Miller is regarded for his speed but nearly all of his handoffs were between the tackles and the Giants' o-line could not open anything up for him. Miller has been lauded for his effort in camp, though even if he makes the roster he will be buried on the depth chart and offers no immediate fantasy value.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants running back Joshua Kelley gained 40 yards on eight carries and caught two of his three targets to net an additional yard through the air in Saturday's loss to the Jets. Kelley gained 19 yards on his first carry, benefitting from some timely blocks and showcasing his agility to make would-be tacklers miss. Kelley was nearly on the receiving end of a touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, but the attempt was swatted down at the line of scrimmage. The score would have been a nice way to end the preseason for the fifth-year veteran as he is not a lock to make the Giants' final roster. Teams are required to cut down to 53 players on Tuesday. Even if Kelley is included, he will be buried on the depth chart and not viable in fantasy.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants quarterback Tommy Devito was called on to go the distance in Saturday's preseason finale. DeVito went 14-for-27 but gained only 103 yards through the air and took five rushes 48 yards in the loss to the Jets. All game long DeVito had to contend with an aggressive pass rush and with all of the Giants' starters sitting, the pocket was quick to break down and the Giants' down roster receivers could not get open. The result was DeVito getting sacked eight times, the last one derailing his two-minute drill at the end of the game. It was a mediocre day for the quarterback trying to prove his worth before rosters are cut to 53 players on Tuesday. Drew Lock's ailing hip might improve DeVito's odds but even if he makes the team he will have no fantasy value behind Lock and starter Daniel Jones.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans wide receiver John Metchie III made notable plays in the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, recording two catches for 21 yards. However, his numbers were lower than last week when he had six receptions for 68 yards and his first professional touchdown against the New York Giants; Metchie III's performance was still impressive. He is competing with Xavier Hutchinson, Ben Skowronek, and Steven Sims for a roster spot, while injured receiver Noah Brown, when healthy, is also a key contender. With only a few spots likely remaining, Metchie III's strong preseason performance suggests he could secure a place on the main roster or land on the practice squad.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans running back Cam Akers showcased his skills in the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. He led the Texans' rushing attack with 53 yards on seven carries, averaging 7.6 yards per run. Akers also added three receptions for 19 yards, highlighting his versatility. Acquired to provide depth after starter Joe Mixon's preseason injury, Akers seems poised to secure the third-string running back spot, especially since backup Dameon Pierce did not see any action. Having played in a similar offensive system with the Rams, Akers may be well-suited for Bobby Slowik's zone-heavy scheme. Monitoring who becomes the backup if Mixon is sidelined could be crucial, as the starting running back for the Texans will likely hold significant fantasy value.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson stood out in the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, recording four catches for 34 yards. He's among the receivers vying for roster spots alongside John Metchie III, Ben Skowronek, and Steven Sims. Noah Brown, currently sidelined with an injury, is also a key consideration when healthy. Hutchinson has been impressive this preseason, totaling 12 receptions for 114 yards and adding 27 rushing yards. With the Texans' roster featuring several smaller receivers like Dell, Metchie, and Diggs, Hutchinson offers a valuable outside option. Given his strong performances and potential, it will be challenging for the team to leave him off the final roster.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans quarterback Case Keenum started the final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams but was injured during the match. Keenum appeared to hurt his arm while following through on a throw. He completed 4 of 8 passes for 32 yards. He narrowly avoided an interception on a misfire with wide receiver John Metchie III, who was open, before being replaced by fourth-string quarterback Tim Boyle. Boyle performed well, completing 9 of 13 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown to fullback Troy Hairston in the first half at NRG Stadium. Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud did not play as he prepares for the season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on September 8. Davis Mills has secured the backup role and is set to be Stroud's primary backup. With Keenum now waiting to see if he or Boyle will be chosen as the third-string quarterback, Keenum may have the edge given his quasi-coach role in C.J. Stroud's development.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans quarterback Tim Boyle stepped up effectively in relief during the team's final preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. Boyle took over after the starter Case Keenum was injured. He showcased his skills, leading the Texans to a 17-15 victory. Pro Bowl quarterback C.J. Stroud was rested for the game as he prepares for the September 8 season opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Davis Mills has secured the backup role behind Stroud. Boyle, who previously filled in for Zach Wilson with the New York Jets, threw for 142 yards and two touchdowns in the game. As the Texans finalize their roster, Boyle will be vying with Keenum for the third-string quarterback spot.
From RotoBaller
Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard carried the ball three times for 15 yards in the team's preseason win against the Buffalo Bills. Hubbard saw his first preseason action along with all of Carolina's starters, indicating that he has likely locked up the RB1 role for the Panthers this season. While he will serve as the main back to begin this season, Carolina's backfield remains split between him, Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks (knee) who is working his way back from injury. A split backfield in what was a below-average rushing attack last season isn't the most ideal for fantasy purposes, and Hubbard can be viewed as a RB3/4 accordingly.
From RotoBaller
Carolina Panthers tight end Jordan Matthews caught all three of his targets for 21 yards and a touchdown in the team's preseason win over the Buffalo Bills. The 32-year-old started the game with all of Carolina's starters and saw two targets on the initial drive, one of which being an eight-yard touchdown from Bryce Young. While it may be the case that Matthews is the starting tight end, he will continue to compete with Tommy Tremble, Ian Thomas, and rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders for snaps and touches at the position. The makeup of this tight end room will be worth monitoring for fantasy managers, as whoever the starter is may become a streaming option throughout the season.
From RotoBaller
Dynasty | Panthers quarterback Bryce Young completed 6-of-8 passes for 70 yards and a touchdown in Carolina's final preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Young received a lot of praise from the coaching staff after this one and it seems he's ready to go for year two. It's going to be a critical season for last year's #1 pick as he really struggled last season and was severely outplayed by CJ Stroud. While his sample size is still very small, Young will need to show everyone a lot more to stay in the good graces of our dynasty rankings. At this point, he's a hold but one that should make you pretty nervous, despite a good final performance.
Dynasty | Bills rookie running back Frank Gore Jr rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown in Buffalo's preseason finale. Dynasty Analysis: We'll see if this is enough to secure Gore a roster spot but he certainly did all he could in this one. Gore averaged 5.6 yards per carry on the game and was one of the more impressive players in the contest. Unfortunately, being showcased in week three of the preseason isn't always the greatest thing and Gore was playing against backups. He'd be worthy of a deep dynasty league roster spot should he make the team. Stay tuned.
Dynasty | Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson played one series, completing 2-of-2 passes for 26 yards in Pittsburgh's final preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: What was even more telling was the fact Wilson and the rest of the starters hit the bench after one series. Justin Fields competed 3-of-4 passes for 40 yards in his place but the tea leaves are clearly pointing to Wilson starting the year under center, especially given the fact Fields had yet another fumbled snap in this one. This will be a situation to watch but it would be a surprise to see Wilson not under center in week one. He remains a QB2 this year and Fields remains a potential "buy low" at the moment.
Dynasty | Texans running back Cam Akers had 53 yards on seven carries in Houston's preseason finale. Dynasty Analysis: The story here may not be the fact Akers did this on only seven carries - it may be that Akers played in the game at all. Running backs with roster spots sewn up don't typically play this week and that may not bode well for him in the end. It seems the injury sustained a couple of years ago has really deprived Akers of his potential. He belongs on the waiver wire at the moment until we see how Houston manages their depth chart.
Dynasty | Cowboys quarterback Trey Lance completed 33-of-49 passes for 323 yards with one touchdown, adding 90 rushing yards and another score in the Cowboys preseason finale. Dynasty Analysis: He also threw five interceptions. Yep. FIVE. This was as mixed a bag as you can find with a quarterback line and it matches his performance. Lance made great plays in both the run and pass game but a lot of it was wasted by mistakes. It's clear he has immense talent and also evident he's still reckless at times. Dallas has a decision to make but at this point it seems his roster spot is safe. It's hard to make a case for Lance on a dynasty roster if he gets beat out by Cooper Rush.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young completed six of his eight throws for 70 yards and a touchdown in the team's preseason win over the Buffalo Bills. Young played just the initial drive, distributing the ball around to five different receivers before eventually finding Jordan Matthews for an eight-yard touchdown to cap it off. This was Young's first and only preseason action, as the Panthers have relied primarily on QBs Jack Plummer and Jake Luton in their previous games. While it's an encouraging performance from Young, his fantasy relevance will be seen mainly in 2QB/Superflex leagues, barring a vast improvement from last season's performances to be considered a QB1 in fantasy.
From RotoBaller