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Vikings' Justin Jefferson 'not mad' at Kirk Cousins for departure

Wed Jul 10 12:08pm ET
Field Level Media

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson said he understands quarterback Kirk Cousins' decision to sign with the Atlanta Falcons.

Cousins, after all, signed a four-year, $180 million deal with $100 million guaranteed after spending the past six seasons with Minnesota.

"I'm not mad at him at all for that," Jefferson said Tuesday on "The Rich Eisen Show."

The Vikings addressed Cousins' departure by signing veteran Sam Darnold and selecting J.J. McCarthy with the 10th overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft.

"I always knew that Kirk was going to do whatever he needs to do for (him) business-wise," Jefferson told Eisen, "and I just knew that everything just wasn't the way he wanted it to be here, especially just with having to pay me and having to pay so many other different guys. I feel like he just wanted a new start, a new opportunity to start with Atlanta and a clean slate and I'm not mad at him at all for that. I'm grateful for what he has brought to me and the things that we have accomplished together.

"But at the end of the day, it's a business and you've got to do what you've got to do for yourself and for your family, and I clearly understand that. But it's on to the next. It doesn't really matter what quarterback it is in my eyes. I'm always going to try to make the best of the opportunity. I'm always going to try to be the quarterback's friend and make his job a lot easier. It doesn't matter if it was Kirk or if it's Sam or if it's J.J. I'm going to make it as easy as possible for him."

Jefferson, the 2022 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, signed a four-year, $140 million contract extension last month.

After leading the NFL in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) in 2022, Jefferson reached the 1,000-yard mark for the fourth straight season in 2023 despite missing seven games due to injuries.

Drafted in the first round (22nd overall) in 2020, Jefferson is a three-time Pro Bowl selection with 392 catches for 5,899 yards and 30 touchdowns in 60 career games (57 starts). His career average of 98.3 receiving yards per game is the highest in NFL history.

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This Week in the TFC (8-1)

Player Notes
Luke Schoonmaker Aug 3 6:00pm CT
Luke Schoonmaker

Dallas Cowboys tight end Luke Schoonmaker (groin) was unable to practice on Saturday. It sounds like the second-year tight end is dealing with a minor groin issue. For now, Schoonmaker is considered as day-to-day. The Cowboys might hold him out of practice for a few days until he's back to full health. The expectation is Schoonmaker will be the No. 2 tight end behind Jake Ferguson this season. He finished with eight receptions for 65 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games last season. There probably won't be a ton of fantasy value for Schoonmaker with Ferguson ahead of him on the depth chart.

From RotoBaller

Jauan Jennings Aug 3 6:00pm CT
Jauan Jennings

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle) is back to participating in practice on Saturday. This comes a day after Jennings was limited to side work due to a minor ankle issue. Luckily, Jennings is back and hauled in a 25-yard touchdown pass from Brock Purdy during Saturday's practice. Jennings figures to compete for the No. 3 wideout role in training camp. He has seen less than 40 targets in two of his first three seasons in the league. However, an increased role to the No. 3 spot could give him more fantasy value.

From RotoBaller

Rashid Shaheed Aug 3 5:40pm CT
Rashid Shaheed

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed (hamstring) is a little banged up after Saturday's practice session. Head coach Dennis Allen said Shaheed is dealing with hamstring tightness and will be evaluated on Sunday. This is not good news for an already thin wide receiver group in New Orleans. Shaheed figures to have a decently sized role in the offense this upcoming season. He hauled in 46 receptions for 719 yards and five touchdowns through 15 games last season. There should be more information on the severity of the injury later in the weekend.

From RotoBaller

Anthony Brown Aug 3 5:40pm CT
Anthony Brown

The Carolina Panthers have signed defensive back Anthony Brown on Saturday. The organization has reportedly signed Brown after having the veteran defensive back do a workout for the team this weekend. The 30-year-old has spent a majority of his career as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. His best season came in 2021 when he recorded three interceptions and 59 tackles in 16 games. He should provide solid depth for the Panthers defense heading into the regular season.

From RotoBaller

Aaron Rodgers Aug 3 5:30pm CT
Aaron Rodgers

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (Achilles) has reportedly looked impressive early in camp. The veteran quarterback has gone through nine practices in camp and did a 90-min scrimmage on Saturday. Head coach Robert Saleh said it looks like Rodgers hasn't missed any time. The 40-year-old is less than a year removed from a torn Achilles. Despite that, Rodgers says he was 95 percent healthy heading into training camp. The first chance for Rodgers to get back into game action would be Saturday in the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders. It remains to been see if Rodgers is ready for that next step.

From RotoBaller

Russell Wilson Aug 3 2:40pm CT
Russell Wilson

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (calf) is still in a competitive battle with Justin Fields for the starting job. While the team waits for Wilson's return, Fields has made a strong impression during practice. This situation could disrupt the Steelers' initial plans, as they acquired Wilson to bring stability and experience to their quarterback position. Coach Mike Tomlin has repeatedly stated that Wilson is in "pole position" to secure the starting role. Despite Wilson's less athletic profile than Fields, he is expected to showcase his superiority and reaffirm his status as the preferred starter once he's back. For fantasy managers, Wilson's potential to win the job could positively impact the Steelers' skill players, as he has a proven track record as a facilitator. With Wilson at the helm, expect a significant boost for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, who would likely see increased rushing attempts and dump-off opportunities. Wilson's presence would also benefit George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and rookie Roman Wilson in the passing game.

From RotoBaller

Justin Fields Aug 3 2:30pm CT
Justin Fields

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields has impressed in camp while filling in for Russell Wilson (calf),who is sidelined with a calf injury. Fields has consistently improved throughout training camp, from making highlight-reel throws to delivering steady, play-by-play performances. "Justin has really taken advantage of the opportunity for additional snaps because Russ's been out some here the first week," said head coach Mike Tomlin. Fields has finished among the top quarterbacks in fantasy points per game over the last two seasons, ranking QB5 in 2022 and QB12 in 2023. Although Fields might not elevate the overall passing game in Pittsburgh, he has demonstrated the ability to support a top fantasy wide receiver, so George Pickens should remain a strong option. However, Fields' presence could impact the rushing opportunities for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, potentially limiting their touches.

From RotoBaller

Zaven Collins Aug 3 2:10pm CT
Zaven Collins

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Arizona Cardinals linebacker Zaven Collins agreed to a two-year, $14 million extension with the team. The Cardinals declined his fifth-year option a few months ago, saving the club some cash. However, the latest deal will keep the 25-year-old in Arizona for at least a few more seasons. Collins, the No. 16 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has appeared in 50 games for the Cardinals over the last three seasons, totaling 166 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two interceptions. With that in mind, he may be in line for his most productive season to date, so he will see interest from IDP managers heading into the 2024-25 campaign.

From RotoBaller

Jonathon Brooks Aug 3 2:00pm CT
Jonathon Brooks

Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks (knee) won't participate in preseason play. Unfortunately, the rookie could also miss time to begin his inaugural year. Brooks, the No. 46 overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft, tore his ACL in November. With that said, the Panthers will likely limit him once he's healthy enough to return. However, Brooks will presumably compete with Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders for touches, meaning it could be challenging for the former Texas Longhorn to do anything substantial for fantasy managers early in the 2024-25 campaign.

From RotoBaller

Tommy Tremble Aug 3 1:50pm CT
Tommy Tremble

According to Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales, tight end Ian Thomas (calf) is expected to be sidelined for at least a few weeks. Even worse, he appears in danger of missing the team's Week 1 meeting with the New Orleans Saints. The 28-year-old has spent his entire career in Carolina. However, he hasn't been a reliable fantasy producer, totaling 116 catches for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns in 94 games. With Tommy Tremble (hamstring) battling an injury of his own, Thomas was in line to see more snaps moving ahead. But if Tremble and Thomas aren't available for the opener, rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders might find himself starting.

From RotoBaller

Kyler Murray Aug 3 1:40pm CT
Kyler Murray

Cardinals outside linebacker BJ Ojulari (knee) suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during practice on Friday. The 2023 second-round pick had a solid finish to his rookie season with four sacks and was projected to be a top pass rusher for Arizona this year. In Ojulari's absence, Dennis Gardeck is expected to assume a more significant role, and Victor Dimukeje is likely to see increased playing time at outside linebacker. Injuries have been a persistent challenge for Ojulari since his draft year; he had a knee procedure between the combine and the draft and dealt with a hamstring issue the previous spring. He began the last training camp on the PUP list but was activated by early August. With the defense weakened, Kyler Murray, Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, and James Conner will likely need to score more points to keep the team competitive. All of these players could see a boost in value if Arizona becomes a high-scoring team, similar to last year.

From RotoBaller

Deshaun Watson Aug 3 1:30pm CT
Deshaun Watson

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (shoulder) continues to participate fully in training camp sessions. However, the Browns aren't taking any chances with his recovery from season-ending shoulder surgery, with Zac Jackson of The Athletic reporting that the team is "closely monitoring" his rehab efforts. The 28-year-old had his best season in 2020 while still a member of the Houston Texans. Yet, he's struggled in limited action in his first two seasons in Cleveland. With that in mind, Watson has plenty of tools in his arsenal. As a result, the signal-caller is a bounce-back candidate this season, but he'll need to stay healthy.

From RotoBaller

Ricky Pearsall Aug 3 1:20pm CT
Ricky Pearsall

San Francisco 49ers first-round wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (hamstring) has shown impressive progress in training camp despite an initial slow start due to his injury. The 31st overall pick from the 2024 NFL Draft, who hails from Florida, was placed on the Non-Foothall Injury list before camp began but is now back at practice. Niners coach Kyle Shanahan praised Pearsall's development, noting, "real happy" and "He definitely understands our standard." With key players like Deebo Samuel Sr., Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle, and Jauan Jennings already established, the 49ers don't need Pearsall to make an immediate impact. However, his strong performance could make it difficult for the team to keep him off the field come fall. Pearsall is a valuable asset in dynasty leagues but will need an injury or trade to become relevant in redraft leagues.

From RotoBaller

David Njoku Aug 3 1:20pm CT
David Njoku

Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku has had some impressive showings during recent training camp practices. Not only that, but it appears Njoku has strengthened his rapport with quarterback Deshaun Watson, with the tight end receiving frequent attention from the signal-caller during plays. The 2017 No. 29 overall pick has had some down years throughout his career. However, he's coming off his best season, totaling career-highs in receptions (81), yards (882), and touchdowns (six), resulting in a Pro Bowl selection. Without a doubt, Njoku has plenty of hype entering the 2024-25 campaign, and his statistical contributions could be higher than ever if Watson returns to form and stays healthy.

From RotoBaller

Tyreek Hill Aug 3 1:10pm CT
Tyreek Hill

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill agreed to a restructured contract with the team. The multi-time Pro Bowler has been looking for a new agreement for months, even more so after players like Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown received market-altering deals this offseason. But now Hill will get $90 million over the next three seasons, with $65 million fully guaranteed. He is worth every penny, most recently finishing the 2023-24 campaign by catching 119 balls for 13 touchdowns and a career-high 1,799 yards. Without question, the 30-year-old is expected to remain a top wideout, meaning he'll be taken in the first round in most fantasy drafts heading into the 2024-25 season.

From RotoBaller

Travis Etienne Aug 3 1:00pm CT
Travis Etienne

Jacksonville Jaguars left tackle Cam Robinson (shoulder) exited Friday's practice early with a shoulder injury, and the severity of the issue is currently unknown. Robinson, 28, played in nine games last season, dealing with a suspension and a knee injury. Drafted in the second round of 2017, Robinson has spent his entire career with the Jaguars, who used the franchise tag on him in 2021 and 2022 before signing him to a three-year, $54 million contract. Fortunately, the Jaguars have a solid replacement in fourth-year pro Walker Little. Although Robinson's injury's extent remains unclear, Little, a second-round pick in 2021, can step in at left tackle without disrupting the team's performance. Once projected as a top-10 draft pick, Little fell to the second round due to a torn ACL and his decision to opt out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This injury could impact fantasy values for Travis Etienne Jr. and other Jacksonville skill players.

From RotoBaller

DeAndre Hopkins Aug 3 1:00pm CT
DeAndre Hopkins

Tennessee Titans veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (knee) will be sidelined for "several weeks" due to a knee injury, as confirmed by coach Brian Callahan on Saturday morning. Callahan mentioned that there's no precise timetable for Hopkins's return and that the injury did not require surgery. If the recovery progresses on the shorter end, Hopkins could return just before the season opener. Conversely, if the timeline extends, he might return in time for the Week 2 game against the New York Jets on September 15th or later. Last season, Hopkins led Titans receivers with 75 catches, 1,057 yards, and seven touchdowns and was particularly effective with Will Levis as his quarterback. With the additions of Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd and 2022 first-round pick Treylon Burks, the Titans have ample receiving depth to manage while Hopkins is out. Ridley is expected to see a significant increase in targets and should see a boost in his fantasy value. Boyd and Burks will also see more opportunities but will likely remain bench options unless Hopkins's injury proves more serious. The injury also diminishes Will Levis's sleeper potential, making him relevant mainly in two-quarterback or flex leagues.

From RotoBaller

D'Onta Foreman Aug 2 11:10pm CT
D'Onta Foreman

Cleveland Browns running back D'Onta Foreman (neck) returned to the team on Friday. On Thursday, Foreman was airlifted to a hospital in Roanoke, Virginia, after suffering a neck/head injury in practice. He took a direct blow to the head during a special teams drill and was immobilized, though he never actually lost any feeling in his extremities. Cleveland signed the 28-year-old in March to serve as depth while Nick Chubb (knee) works his way back from a devastating knee injury. He should return to the field during training camp at some point as long as the injury is not severe, and with no timetable for Chubb's return, Foreman will be vying with backfield mate Jerome Ford for touches on the Browns' offense. He's currently an NFFC afterthought at RB65, No. 223 overall, but remains intriguing in best ball formats if he can put this injury behind him, as he still had some juice in the tank playing with the Bears in 2023.

From RotoBaller

Jake Haener Aug 2 11:00pm CT
Jake Haener

New Orleans Saints quarterback Jake Haener was diagnosed with a rare form of skin cancer on his facial area and is scheduled to have a procedure performed Monday to address the issue. Reports say Haener should be expected back on the field for practice on Wednesday following the regularly scheduled off day for the Saints on Tuesday. The former fourth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft is set to compete for the backup role behind incumbent starter Derek Carr with 2024 fifth-round pick Spencer Rattler. The second-year signal-caller is a Fresno State alum -- like Carr -- and enjoyed a breakout season in 2021, where he tossed 4,096 yards, completing 67% of his passes with a 33:9 TD: INT ratio. Carr is locked in as the starter, but it's anyone's game behind him. Haener presents as little more than a deep-league dynasty stash until he proves himself as the backup in question.

From RotoBaller

Greg Joseph Aug 2 11:00pm CT
Greg Joseph

Green Bay Packers kicker Greg Joseph has been outperforming returning starter Anders Carlson thus far in camp. Joseph is connecting on kicks at a 94% clip (29-of-31), including 7-for-7 at Thursday's practice, while Carlson has hit just 81% of his total attempts (25-of-31). This is a significant development as the Packers ranked 12th last season in points per game and project to be better this year with another year of growth for Jordan Love. Whoever holds the starting kicker position for Green Bay is sure to provide substantial value for fantasy managers this coming fall. Joseph is RotoBaller's K20, and Carlson was the K24 in 2023. There is an excellent chance for this ADP to be outperformed by one of these players while kicking for a rising Packers offense.

From RotoBaller