Tue Jul 16 10:16am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
Godwin is moving to the slot
This is the second 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.
Saints
The Saints were a bit of a surprise last year, winning their division. Expectations will be high for this team again, mainly because of the veteran players on the team. Their window might be closing sooner than later. There are not a ton of questions to be answered with this squad, but keeping their veterans healthy might be a big key to training camp. New Orleans gets camp started on July 16 at the University of California-Irvine in Irvine, Calif.
Position battle: Chris Olave is the clear No. 1 receiver for the Saints, but things aren’t quite as clear after him. Rashid Shaheed had his chances last year but wasn’t too consistent. He won’t be handed anything this year. A.T. Perry, Cedrick Wilson and Bub Means should be in the mix for the starter spot, opposite Olave. The job is Shaheed’s to lose, but don’t discount the other guys by any means.
Injury watch: Chris Olave is dealing with a shoulder injury he suffered in the weight room this offseason. The injury is considered pretty minor but still something to monitor. He is the top target in this offense and sporting a non-contact jersey for a lot of the offseason workouts. Olave might be brought along slowly in camp to make sure he is completely healthy for the start of the season.
Bucs
The Bucs were a playoff team last season and should have a similar competitive squad this season. Tampa has some good pieces on both sides of the ball. Much of the season might hinge on starting quarterback Baker Mayfield, who played his best football last season. He will need to continue to make strides if the Bucs hope to make another playoff run. Mayfield and his teammates open camp on July 23 at the AdventHealth Training Center in Tampa, Fla.
Position battle: The starting receivers are clear in Tampa, but the No. 3 is up in the air. There are three similar players looking to get that job. Trey Palmer, Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard are the top candidates to play alongside Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. And with Godwin moving to the slot this year, the player winning that No. 3 job could have some big games in Tampa, getting some chances to stretch the field.
Injury watch: Chris Godwin was able to play a full season last year but injuries have been an issue in recent seasons. And the Bucs are moving him to the slot this year because they want to avoid him getting injured. So his health is something to watch this training camp, making sure he can remain upright and on the field. Godwin can be a fantasy difference maker when all is right with him.
Falcons
The Falcons have a lot of new this training camp, which should be the focus of camp. The new coaching staff will install a new offense for the new starting quarterback. How quickly can everyone get up to speed with the new system? This will be what fantasy owners should be watching during camp. The new offense should be a lot more exciting than last year, which should be a welcome sight for fantasy owners. All this new for the Falcons gets going on July 23 at the IBM Performance Field in Flowery Branch, Ga.
Position battle: We wouldn’t call this a position battle, but the Falcons used a first-round pick on quarterback Michael Penix, surprising everyone. He should sit behind Kirk Cousins this year but you have to wonder a little what would happen if Penix tore it up in camp and preseason action. It might put a little heat on Cousins. Penix could make things really interesting for Atlanta.
Injury watch: Kirk Cousins is returning from a torn Achilles’ tendon. This is a major injury to come back from, but he has made good progress. Expectations are he should be ready for the start of the year, but nothing is 100 percent certain. We should get a good idea of his health after watching him in camp and preseason action.
Panthers
The Panthers did a much better job this offseason of trying to surround second-year quarterback Bryce Young with more talent. Young had his struggles his rookie season, so something needed to be done to help him get it going. We will see if the Panthers did enough to help Young take some steps forward, starting in camp on July 19 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.
Position battle: The Panthers upgraded at receiver this offseason, adding Diontae Johnson and rookie Xavier Legette to the mix. Adam Thielen is already on the roster, though, as is Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall. This is a suddenly crowded receiver room with a lot to be sorted. You will want to see how this all shakes out before drafting any Panthers receiver to your team.
Injury watch: Jonathan Brooks would have been a higher draft pick if not for a torn ACL, suffered late in his college career. There is a good chance he is not ready for the start of camp or the regular season. The Panthers are likely to bring along their future starting running back slowly, making sure he doesn’t have any setbacks. But once he is healthy, Brooks will be the three-down back for the Panthers, getting plenty of playing time in that role.
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