Mon Jul 15 11:09am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
Prescott in make or break season
This is the first in a series of training camp previews. The previews give you a quick look at each team, going over position battles and injuries to watch in camp. The season is right around the corner.
Cowboys
The Cowboys are always a team to watch in training camp, mainly because of the high expectations for the team. But this year the expectations could be even higher with Dak Prescott possibly in a make or break year. He will need to play at a high level and produce in the playoffs if he hopes to continue to start and land a big contract with the Cowboys. There will be a lot of pressure on Prescott this season. The Cowboys open camp on July 24 at the Marriott Residence Inn in Oxnard, Calif.
Position battle: The running back spot is the big one for the Cowboys this training camp. This spot is truly up for grabs with Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn and Royce Freeman battling it out for playing time. Elliott is the favorite to start but will need to show he still has something left in the tank. Dowdle is the big wild card. He is the younger option that showed well at times last year. If he can take a step forward, he could emerge as the lead back in this high-powered offense.
Injury watch: Dak Prescott scared some when he was spotted in a boot recently. He was battling some sort of ankle injury but it was considered minor. He is expected to be just fine for the start of camp. It is something to maybe keep an eye on, though, just to be sure. Ankle injuries can linger.
Eagles
Philadelphia had a great regular season but fizzled towards the end and in the playoffs. This will put more pressure on the team to perform the entire season. There is a ton of talent on this team, especially after adding running back Saquon Barkley to an already high-powered offense. It will be intriguing to see how Barkley is used on the offense, making it one of the big storylines in camp. Barkley and his teammates get things started on July 23 at the NovaCare Complex in Philadelphia.
Position battle: There really isn’t much to decide in Philadelphia but one spot to watch is the backup running back position. Kenneth Gainwell is the returner but he will have rookie Will Shipley to compete with for that job. Shipley is a talented three-down back that has already impressed in his short time in Philadelphia. Gainwell has produced well at times but been a little inconsistent. Starter Saquon Barkley can have some injury issues, so figuring out the back that might end up getting the most work if he were to get hurt could be a big plus for fantasy owners.
Injury watch: Dallas Goedert is not currently injured but injuries have been an issue for him in recent seasons. He has missed games each of the last five seasons. Injuries are always a concern when it comes to Goedert. But if healthy, he can be a big producer at fantasy tight end. Keep an eye on him during training camp to see how he looks and plays.
Giants
New York has a lot of questions once again, mainly offensively. Do they have the right quarterback to lead the team? Who is going to step up at receiver? How will the team replace superstar Saquon Barkley at running back? And lastly, will the offensive line hold up over a full season? All these questions will be closely monitored this training camp, which kicks off July 16 at the Quest Diagnostics Training Facility in East Rutherford, N.J.
Position battle: The Giants are a mess at receiver. They have all sorts of openings. Rookie Malik Nabers might be about the only sure thing out of the group. He is expected to be the No. 1 receiver this season. But after him, you have Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Isaiah McKenzie, Isaiah Hodgins and Allen Robinson vying for playing time. It really is anyone’s guess who might emerge out of that big group of receivers. We should have a better idea after seeing these guys in camp and preseason action.
Injury watch: Starting quarterback Daniel Jones is returning from a torn ACL, suffered in Week 9 last year. This is a major injury to return, so Jones is no sure thing to be ready for Week 1. The good news is his offseason progress has been really good. All signs point towards him being ready for the start of the season. Just make sure he keeps progressing in camp and doesn’t have any setbacks before pulling the trigger on him come draft day.
Commanders
The Commanders have a lot of new this season, including a franchise quarterback and head coach. These two aspects of the team will be the main focus of training camp for Commanders fans to watch. Washington will need to hit on these two if they hope to get the franchise headed in the right direction once again. Washington gets camp started on July 18 at the OrthoVirginia Training Center in Ashburn, Va.
Position battle: The tight end position is up for grabs in Washington this year. The Commanders drafted Ben Sinnott, who is the future at the position, but also signed veteran Zach Ertz. These two will battle it out for the right to start. Ertz has reportedly been a top target in offseason workouts, so he might have the early lead for the job. Either way, the starting tight end could carry good fantasy value in Washington with a rookie quarterback at the helm. The tight end can be a nice safety net for a young player.
Injury watch: Austin Ekleler had an ankle injury last year that caused him to miss three games and be limited in others. Nagging injuries have slowed him in recent years. He isn’t getting any younger and this might be his last chance to play a big role in an offense. Ekekler will need to show he is healthy and still has something left in the tank if he hopes to get consistent playing time.
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.
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa (wrist, hand) returned to the team on Thursday and worked off to the side with a trainer. This marks his first time back since leaving joint practice against the Los Angeles Rams on August 4th. Bosa is sure to be happy to make it back to the field after nearly three weeks off, as he has seen his last few seasons marred by injury. After appearing in just five games in 2022 due to an inguinal groin tear, a sprained foot limited him to nine games in 2023. Throughout his eight-year career, he has played in just three full seasons. However, his presence at practice is an excellent sign for him and the Chargers defense. Los Angeles presents some sneaky upside as a team defense early in the season for fantasy managers looking to stream the position, as they have three favorable matchups over the first three weeks. They'll square up against the Las Vegas Raiders, Carolina Panthers, and Pittsburgh Steelers to open the year, and a healthy Bosa can only help their case.
From RotoBaller
With the recent trading of former teammate Jahan Dotson, Washington Commanders wide receiver Dyami Brown has been catapulted into the team's starting lineup. He now sits No. 2 behind Terry McLaurin on Washington's depth chart. Brown has looked solid this preseason and will have a chance to earn more consistent targets in his new starting role. The former Tarheel has garnered a 91.1 grade from PFF for his play this August and now has five catches (two contested) on six targets for 74 yards and a 118.1 rating when targeted. While the 24-year-old has totaled just 29 receptions over his first three seasons as a pro, he stands an excellent shot to provide some value in fantasy drafts this season in a wide-open Washington wide receiver room. Brown is currently Yahoo!'s WR409, though that is expected to change over the next few weeks.
From RotoBaller
The Kansas City Chiefs and Pro Bowl center Creed Humphrey have agreed on a four-year extension valued at $72 million, including $50 million guaranteed. This effectively makes him the highest-paid center in NFL history. The previous holder of the highest annual salary for a center was the Detroit Lions' Frank Ragnow ($13.5 million). A former second-round pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Humphrey has been a model of consistency for the Chiefs -- yet to miss a start in his three-year career. The University of Oklahoma product has evolved into one of the premier interior blockers in the league, and he'll now anchor Kansas City's offensive line through 2028. He's allowed just 44 total pressures throughout his career. The Chiefs now have the NFL's highest-paid interior offensive lineman, interior defensive lineman (Chris Jones), and tight end (Travis Kelce).
From RotoBaller
The Cincinnati Bengals are expecting defensive end Myles Murphy (knee) to miss around four to six weeks with a knee sprain, according to sources. The Bengals will be conservative with the 2023 first-rounder to make sure he's a full-go upon his return. Murphy suffered the knee injury in Wednesday's joint practice with the Indianapolis Colts and will now miss the start of his second NFL season. The 22-year-old was selected 28th overall last year out of Clemson and finished his first year in the league with 20 tackles (10 solo), three sacks, three tackles for loss and three QB hits in 17 games (zero starts). While Murphy is out, the Bengals will be looking for the likes of Cedric Johnson, Joseph Ossai and Justin Blazek to step up and provide defensive-end depth behind Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said on Thursday that "there's really not a lot of updates. We've continued to be in communication. Nothing to report there," when asked for an update on the ongoing situation with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. The Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots have all been mentioned as potential trade partners with the Niners for Aiyuk this summer. The Patriots dropped out a while ago, though, and the Steelers' recent extension offer to Aiyuk caused him to head back to the negotiating table with the 49ers. With two weeks remaining until the start of the regular season, it's more likely that Aiyuk either signs an extension to stay in San Fran or plays in 2024 on his fifth-year option. The 26-year-old former first-rounder is coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and 15 total TDs, and his fantasy value would be highest as a low-end WR1 if he sticks with the 49ers.
From RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Amari Cooper (undisclosed) returned to training camp practice on Wednesday and fully participated on Thursday after only going through the walkthrough portion of practice on Tuesday. Head coach Kevin Stefanski said earlier in the week that the starters should expect to play in the preseason finale on Saturday against the Seattle Seahawks, but it's unclear if that also includes Cooper, who was pulled from practice early last Thursday due to undisclosed soreness. Cooper will have to contend with losing some targets to Jerry Jeudy in 2024, but he's still the Browns' clear WR1 and will be getting quarterback Deshaun Watson (shoulder) back healthy. The 30-year-old veteran and five-time Pro Bowler had his seventh 1,000-yard season in 2023 and set a new career-high with 1,250 receiving yards. Cooper is being undervalued currently at his Yahoo ADP of 52.6.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver DJ Chark (undisclosed) remained on the sideline during Thursday's practice. The veteran wideout was banged up during Monday's practice. Chark has been on the sideline since then as he continues to nurse what is believed to be a hip injury. However, the Chargers haven't commented much on Chark or the injury. The expectation is that Chark is going to miss Saturday's preseason finale against the Dallas Cowboys. Right now, Chark is competing for the third wideout spot alongside Quentin Johnston. Chark hasn't been a viable option in fantasy leagues for a few years. That being said, fantasy managers can leave him on the waiver wire in 12-team redraft formats to begin the season.
From RotoBaller
Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco is unlikely to play during Thursday's preseason finale against the Chicago Bears. Fantasy managers shouldn't be concerned as the Chiefs are expected to bench most of their offensive starters. Pacheco is undoubtedly the lead back in Kansas City after having back-to-back strong campaigns to begin his career. That being said, the team doesn't want to risk any injury to Pacheco in an exhibition game. Clyde Edwards-Helaire should join Pacheco on the sideline for this one. That being said, Deneric Prince and Keaontay Ingram should be the primary backs for the Chiefs during Thursday's contest.
From RotoBaller
Seattle Seahawks tight end Noah Fant is expected to be ready to play in the Week 1 matchup against the Denver Broncos. Fant is working his way back from an undisclosed injury and hasn't been on the practice field for a few days. Head coach Mike Macdonald doesn't appear concerned about this being a long term issue for Fant. The 26-year-old is coming off the worst season of his professional career. He recorded a career-low 32 receptions, 414 receiving yards, and zero touchdowns in 17 games. Despite that, Fant remains the No. 1 tight end in Seattle and has a new offensive coordinator in Ryan Grubb. He's worth a look as a late-round option with the tight end position being limited in terms of elite fantasy contributors.
From RotoBaller
The San Francisco 49ers have decided to bring back tight end Logan Thomas on Thursday. The veteran tight end was cut by the organization two weeks ago. Thomas was dealing with an injury in camp, but he appears to be healthy now. The 33-year-old should be a decent option alongside George Kittle at the tight end spot. Last season, Thomas recorded 55 receptions for 496 yards and four touchdowns with the Washington Commanders. He could have streaming value if Kittle does miss any time. Outside of that, Thomas is unlikely to have weekly fantasy value as the No. 2 tight end in San Francisco.
From RotoBaller
Justin Fields believes he has demonstrated his capability to be the Steelers' starting quarterback despite the team still listing Russell Wilson as QB1 on the depth chart for Saturday's preseason game. Fields expressed confidence in his performance, saying, "I think the time I had with the first-team offense during training camp went well. We made progress each day, but ultimately, it's not up to me." Fields directed questions about his depth chart position to head coach Mike Tomlin. Over two preseason games, Fields has completed 16 of 23 passes for 159 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions and three sacks. He has also rushed for 44 yards on 11 carries. Given the opportunity, Fields could prove to be a significant player. While Wilson is expected to be a QB2/QB3 fantasy option, Fields has the potential to be a top-10 QB fantasy asset. Fantasy managers should watch this situation closely, and hope Fields gets his chance.
From RotoBaller
Dynasty | The Eagles have acquired wide receiver Jahan Dotson from the Washington Commanders. Dynasty Analysis: The Commanders traded the former first round pick and a 2025 fifth-round pick to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks in 2025. It's a deal that kind of comes out of left field, though Dotson was reportedly being outplayed in camp by both Dyami Brown and Olamide Zaccheus. Dotson will slot in as the third receiver for the Eagles behind AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith. It's a move that certainly doesn't help his dynasty value as the former first rounder won't likely see anything like the 83 targets he had last season.
Dynasty | Dyami Brown moves up the depth chart after the Eagles traded for Jahan Dotson. Dynasty Analysis: Interesting. The trade of Dotson clearly paves the way for Brown to have a much bigger role in the Commanders offense this year. While he hasn't done much in his three years (62/476/3), he's also only had 62 career targets. If the Commanders don't make other moves, that number could change dramatically this season. Brown is clearly now on the sleeper radar and worth a roster spot in dynasty leagues.
Dynasty | Parris Campbell moves down the depth chart after the Eagles traded for Jahan Dotson. Dynasty Analysis: This trade represents a tough break for Campbell, who was trying to make a significant impact this year after a lost season with the Giants. Campbell and Dotson are different players but there simply aren't enough targets to keep everyone happy in the receiver room, especially when you keep in mind AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith are going to dominate targets anyway. Campbell is likely not a roster-worthy player at the moment.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin recently addressed the quarterback situation, confirming that Russell Wilson (calf) will start in the preseason finale. When asked if Wilson remains the starting quarterback, Tomlin affirmed, "Nothing's changed regarding their positions, and yes, he will start." While it's not surprising that Wilson will play, his status as the starter is notable given the concerns raised after his performance in Week 2 of the preseason against the Bills. Wilson struggled in that game, throwing for just 47 yards on ten attempts and taking three sacks for 21 yards lost. This preseason game was Wilson's first live-action since early January and followed a period of missing significant training camp time due to a calf injury. As such, Wilson is considered a late QB2 or early QB3 with uncertain job security, though he could be a viable option in favorable matchups.
From RotoBaller
After practice, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay reported that running back Boston Scott (leg contusion) is dealing with a "minor leg contusion," which led to him being held out of practice. However, McVay confirmed that Scott will receive a substantial workload in Saturday's preseason game. Scott performed well in last weekend's game, rushing ten times for 55 yards in the Rams' victory over the Chargers. Although Scott was the second back to see action behind Zach Evans, both were used early in the game. Scott and Evans are vying for a spot in a crowded running back room that includes Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, and Ronnie Rivers. Additionally, the Rams have bolstered their running back depth by signing SaRodorick Thompson, who is expected to join Evans and Scott as active ball carriers for the upcoming preseason game against the Houston Texans. Assuming he makes the final roster, Scott will likely serve in a backup and special teams role this season.
From RotoBaller
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has stated there is no specific timeline for tight end T.J. Hockenson's (knee) return from his ACL and MCL injuries. Still, he appears to be making excellent physical progress. Hockenson is recovering from a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee, which he sustained in a late-season game against the Detroit Lions. Although rumors suggest he might return sooner than anticipated, a mid-October return seems more realistic based on current data. While Vikings coaches are optimistic about Hockenson's recovery, there is a significant difference between running and cutting in practice gear and performing under game conditions with full contact. Consequently, Hockenson's fantasy value has been considerably impacted. Although he has a strong track record, catching four or more passes in 22 of 25 games with the Vikings, fantasy managers are often wary of players who will miss several weeks. However, if your league includes an IR slot, Hockenson could be a worthwhile late-round pick as insurance for the end of the season.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans praised running back Joe Mixon's receiving skills, highlighting what sets him apart. Ryans commented, "Joe stands out as a receiving running back. While everyone recognizes his physical running style and ability to gain yards even without perfect blocking, his hands out of the backfield are exceptional. If downfield options are unavailable, we can rely on him for check-downs and big plays in the passing game." This endorsement makes Mixon a strong candidate for the middle rounds in PPR leagues. Mixon has adapted well to the zone-based schemes used by offensive coordinator Slowik and remains a valuable pass-catching asset. Despite missing most of training camp due to a quadriceps injury and lacking preseason game action, Mixon is expected to be ready for the season opener on September 8 against the Indianapolis Colts.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan says wide receiver Treylon Burks (undisclosed) is fine, and that it was good to see him bounce back after a hard fall on Wednesday in practice. Burks participated in practice on Thursday, so he should be good to go for the Titans in Sunday's preseason finale against the hosting New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Although the 24-year-old former first-round pick had a lost 2023 season due to injury and DeAndre Hopkins' (knee) arrival in Tennessee's receiving corps, he's handling additional first-team reps with Hopkins currently sidelined. Burks is a decent late-round flier as a WR5/6 pick for fantasy managers in 12-team leagues at the moment, but he'll likely fade back to irrelevance once Hopkins is healthy.
From RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (shoulder) participated fully in practice on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday with "general arm soreness." While there's no update yet on if Watson will face the Seahawkson Saturday night in the preseason finale at Lumen Field, it's more important to see he's back in action for the Browns on Thursday. The 28-year-old former Pro Bowler is coming off a rough season in Cleveland, dealing with a rotator cuff contusion, getting benched due to poor play altogether in Week 7, and eventually undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a fractured shoulder. Even with Watson being treated as a QB2 choice in fantasy drafts this summer, his rushing upside gives him QB1 potential if he can return to the form he once showed with the Houston Texans.
From RotoBaller