Guest of the League
Run and Shoot Est. 2019
Dynasty $125 - FFL: Preseason | NFL: Week 1

Chargers WR Quentin Johnston exits on cart from preseason game vs. Rams

Sat Aug 16 8:42pm ET
Field Level Media

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston left the preseason game against the host Los Angeles Rams on a medical cart after taking a big hit on the third play from scrimmage on Saturday in Inglewood, Calif.

Johnston was injured on an incomplete deep sideline pass from quarterback Justin Herbert when Rams safety Tanner Ingle hit him. Johnston lay on his back with his arms outstretched and was motionless for several moments at SoFi Stadium. Trainers, Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh and wide receivers coach Sanjay Lal checked on him.

While players from both teams knelt and medical personnel tended to him, Johnston eventually moved his arms and legs, then sat up and walked to the cart that took him off the field.

Johnston, who turns 24 on Sept. 6, caught 55 passes on 91 targets last season for 711 yards and a team-high eight touchdowns in 15 regular season games (11 starts). He has 93 career receptions for 1,142 yards and 10 TDs in 32 regular season games (21 starts).

The Chargers selected Johnston with the 21st overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of TCU.

Top Headlines
The Paur Report

2025 Fantasy Running Back Preview

Player Notes
Terry McLaurin Aug 16 8:40pm ET
Terry McLaurin

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin "remains frustrated" regarding his contract situation. Fowler added that there are teams still interested in acquiring the wideout. However, the front office is optimistic both sides "can reach some sort of a compromise," although it won't be a situation where "he plays out the year of his contract or on a franchise tag next year." McLaurin is coming off a stellar season. He finished the 2025 campaign by amassing 82 catches for 1,096 yards while finding the end zone a career-high 13 times. The Commanders recently removed him from the Active/Physically Unable to Perform list. Still, the move doesn't mean a resolution to the standoff is on the horizon. With that in mind, the latest update from Fowler should at least provide some optimism for fantasy managers, especially for those who took a risk and selected McLaurin for their squads heading into Week 1.

From RotoBaller

Xavier Gipson Aug 16 8:20pm ET
Xavier Gipson

New York Jets wide receiver Xavier Gipson (shoulder) exited Saturday's preseason game against the Giants and is questionable to return. Gipson had already entered the contest with the same injury, making this setback concerning for the third-year receiver. Across his first two NFL seasons, the former Stephen F. Austin product has recorded 27 catches for 268 yards and one touchdown. Gipson is firmly on the roster bubble and needed strong preseason performances to secure his spot. His absence could open the door for Brandon Smith to carve out a role as the Jets evaluate their depth chart.

From RotoBaller

Patrick Taylor Aug 16 8:10pm ET
Patrick Taylor

San Francisco 49ers running back Patrick Taylor Jr. (shoulder) will miss the rest of the preseason after dislocating his shoulder in Saturday's 22-19 win over the Raiders. The veteran back logged minus-six yards on four carries before exiting, though the entire backfield struggled behind poor blocking. Taylor is competing with Isaac Guerendo and Jordan James for depth behind Christian McCaffrey, but both Guerendo and James are also dealing with injuries. That should bolster Taylor's roster security, especially with his proven special teams value. While not fantasy relevant, he is likely to open the season on the 49ers' 53-man roster.

From RotoBaller

Matthew Stafford Aug 16 8:10pm ET
Matthew Stafford

The Los Angeles Rams declined to comment on reports of quarterback Matthew Stafford's possible workout Saturday morning. Stafford has been absent from recent practices and has yet to appear in preseason action, leaving questions about his readiness for Week 1. Head coach Sean McVay is expected to provide clarity when he meets with the media Monday. Stetson Bennett IV started Saturday's preseason game against the Chargers in Stafford's place. The veteran remains the unquestioned starter when healthy, but at this stage of his career, he is best viewed as a two-quarterback or superflex league option only.

From RotoBaller

Jalen McMillan Aug 16 7:50pm ET
Jalen McMillan

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (back/head) was ruled out of Saturday's preseason game against the Steelers after taking a hard fall in the first quarter. The rookie wideout made a highlight-reel catch before being flipped by defensive back Daryl Porter and landing on his head. With Chris Godwin (ankle) still recovering from last year's injury, Tampa Bay's receiver depth is being tested early. If McMillan misses time, the Buccaneers will likely turn to Trey Palmer or rookie Emeka Egbuka to fill in. Fantasy managers should monitor updates, though McMillan profiles as a waiver-wire watch more than a redraft target.

From RotoBaller

Justin Jefferson Aug 16 7:40pm ET
Justin Jefferson

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (hamstring) remains without a firm return date as he continues his recovery from a preseason injury. Head coach Kevin O'Connell said Jefferson is "hopefully going to start doing more and more," but the team is being cautious with its superstar. Jefferson is coming off another elite season, posting 1,533 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. With rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy preparing for his first year as a starter and Jordan Addison suspended to open the season, Jefferson's health is critical. He remains an early first-round fantasy pick this season.

From RotoBaller

Quentin Johnston Aug 16 7:30pm ET
Quentin Johnston

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston (head) left Saturday's preseason game against the Rams after taking a hard hit on the third play from scrimmage. The third-year wideout is competing for snaps behind veteran Keenan Allen and remains in the mix for a rotational role this season. Johnston has flashed big-play potential but continues to struggle with consistency, recording a 7.7% drop rate last season. Despite posting 711 yards and eight touchdowns last year, he remains more of a wait-and-see option for fantasy managers and should be monitored as a potential early-season waiver-wire target.

From RotoBaller

Mack Hollins Aug 16 7:20pm ET
Mack Hollins

New England Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins caught all three of his targets for 38 yards during Saturday's preseason contest. The veteran receiver is competing for a roster spot in New England, with Kendrick Bourne and Efton Chism III representing the biggest obstacles in his way. Saturday's performance will certainly help his case. Not only did he finish second on the team in catches and receiving yards, but he also showcased physical talent by making a difficult toe-tap catch on an inaccurate pass thrown by Drake Maye near the sideline. Hollins scored at least four touchdowns in three of his last four seasons, including a team-high five last year in Buffalo. However, he's not an immediate threat to produce in New England and should be left on waivers in most fantasy leagues for the time being.

From RotoBaller

Teddy Bridgewater Aug 16 7:20pm ET
Teddy Bridgewater

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will start Saturday's preseason matchup against the Steelers, just 11 days after signing with the team. The veteran recently returned to the NFL and now provides valuable leadership and stability behind starter Baker Mayfield. While Bridgewater won't push Mayfield for the starting job, he offers an experienced safety net for a team with playoff aspirations. His primary competition is Kyle Trask, who remains in the mix for backup duties. Bridgewater doesn't carry fantasy relevance outside of deep two-quarterback formats, but his presence strengthens Tampa Bay's overall quarterback room.

From RotoBaller

Jaydon Blue Aug 16 7:10pm ET
Jaydon Blue

Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Jaydon Blue (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's preseason matchup against the Ravens. The fifth-round pick out of Texas has flashed big-play ability, and could eventually push for carries behind Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. Both veterans have struggled with consistency in recent years, creating a potential path for Blue to carve out a role if he can stay healthy. Tonight, Miles Sanders, Deuce Vaughn, and Phil Mafah will handle backfield work in his absence. Blue remains a dynasty stash with intriguing upside for fantasy managers.

From RotoBaller

Tim Jones Aug 16 7:00pm ET
Tim Jones

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Tim Jones nabbed five of eight targets for 68 yards, all team highs, on Saturday against the New England Patriots. The veteran is aiming to make Minnesota's 53-man roster, which should have room for an extra receiver with Jordan Addison (suspension) set to miss the first three games and Rondale Moore (knee) out for the season. Jones' fantasy value is tied to whether he actually makes the club, and on Saturday, he looked capable of being a depth option.

From RotoBaller

Efton Chism III Aug 16 7:00pm ET
Efton Chism III

New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III caught all six of his targets for 71 yards and a touchdown during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. Chism is an undrafted free agent who is competing for a spot on New England's 53-man roster. All of his catches Saturday came in the first half, making his performance even more remarkable. The rookie didn't play in the second half of the game, most likely due to his strong first half. The Patriots' TV broadcast speculated that Chism made the team with his big showing, and they also noted that he was receiving some attention from a trainer, which will be a storyline to follow going forward. Head coach Mike Vrabel and vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf both prioritized speaking favorably about Chism during their respective television interviews, which is another good sign as he competes for a roster spot. It's also worth noting that Chism attended Eastern Washington, which is the same school where Cooper Kupp played. Chism broke many of Kupp's records with the Eagles program, and now he looks to make an impact at the NFL level.

From RotoBaller

Sam Howell Aug 16 7:00pm ET
Sam Howell

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Howell had a rough showing Saturday, completing just one pass from five attempts for 13 yards with a brutal interception. The veteran, who is on his third team in three years, is still the favorite to backup J.J. McCarthy, but hasn't been convincing during this preseason. Howell did add 14 yards on three rushes leading the offense without top receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but the Vikings also took long looks at Brett Rypien and Max Brosmer on Saturday. From a fantasy perspective, Howell is only roster-worthy as McCarthy insurance in deep formats.

From RotoBaller

Max Brosmer Aug 16 7:00pm ET
Max Brosmer

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Max Brosmer earned extended playing time Saturday against the New England Patriots, completing 15 of 27 passes for 156 yards and an interception. It was a decent if unremarkable showing for the undrafted rookie, who played his final season of college football at the University of Minnesota and has made an interesting case the be the Vikings' third quarterback. Brosmer is unlikely to hold much fantasy value beyond a taxi squad lottery ticket, but has been a solid preseason performer for the Vikings thus far.

From RotoBaller

Ty Chandler Aug 16 7:00pm ET
Ty Chandler

Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler rushed three times for 12 yards and dropped his only target on Saturday against the New England Patriots. It was yet another uninspiring performance for the UNC product, who doesn't appear to be a lock to make Minnesota's 53-man roster. Chandler's best case at this point may be as a returner, especially after the Vikings lost receiver Rondale Moore (knee) for the season, but Zavier Scott is also lurking as a viable RB3 candidate who has put together a good camp and back-to-back strong showings in the preseason. This will be a battle to watch in the coming weeks.

From RotoBaller

TreVeyon Henderson Aug 16 6:50pm ET
TreVeyon Henderson

New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson rushed four times for 20 yards and one touchdown during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. He also returned a kick 26 yards and was targeted once in the passing game. It was an interesting game for the Patriots' backfield as Henderson looked great, Antonio Gibson struggled, and Rhamondre Stevenson (undisclosed) didn't play a snap. Although Stevenson is the incumbent No. 1 running back and Gibson also earned a start in 2024, Henderson has looked like the Patriots' best and most dependable running back so far this summer. The rookie figures to earn the starting job at some point this season, and we can't rule out the possibility of him getting the first snap in Week 1. Henderson is the most intriguing Patriots player in fantasy football drafts with a highly justifiable ADP of 59 (RB20).

From RotoBaller

Brock Bowers Aug 16 6:50pm ET
Brock Bowers

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers has seen his role shift under the new coaching staff in preseason games this year. After a dominant rookie year with 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns, Bowers was out-snapped 8-to-5 by Michael Mayer on Saturday. Mayer handled most first- and second-down work, while Bowers appeared primarily on third downs and passing situations. It's unclear if this is simply preseason management to limit wear and tear or an early sign of a new rotation. While still a TE1 with elite upside, Bowers' usage should be monitored heading into Week 1.

From RotoBaller

Drake Maye Aug 16 6:40pm ET
Drake Maye

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed four of his seven pass attempts for 46 yards during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. His first drive led to a punt, while the second resulted in a TreVeyon Henderson rushing touchdown. Maye's performance was nothing special; some of his passes either sailed over his receivers or required them to change direction to catch the pass so they were unable to turn upfield for extra yardage. He also took an inexcusable delay of game penalty. The preseason is the perfect time for players to learn from their mistakes, so perhaps Maye will come out even stronger during next week's contest in preparation for his second NFL season. Nevertheless, his accuracy and ability to lead the offense will be worth monitoring as Maye looks to avoid the notorious sophomore slump.

From RotoBaller

Christian McCaffrey Aug 16 6:40pm ET
Christian McCaffrey

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has been outstanding in training camp, drawing high praise from head coach Kyle Shanahan, who said the star back is "as fast as he's been." After injuries limited him to just four games last season, McCaffrey looks fully healthy and back to form. The do-it-all back is only two years removed from a 2023 campaign in which he racked up 2,023 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns. His strong camp showing has fantasy managers regaining confidence, and possibly pushing his ADP back into the mid-first round as an elite RB1 option.

From RotoBaller

Joshua Dobbs Aug 16 6:40pm ET
Joshua Dobbs

New England Patriots quarterback Joshua Dobbs completed 11 of his 16 pass attempts for 106 yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. The veteran backup looked solid, albeit against the Vikings' second-team defense. With only Drake Maye and Ben Wooldridge alongside him in the Patriots' quarterback room, Dobbs is in line to earn the backup job ahead of Week 1. The 30-year-old has seen increased opportunities over the last few seasons, including the 2023 campaign in which he threw for 13 touchdowns with the Vikings and Arizona Cardinals. He spent 2024 backing up Brock Purdy in San Francisco but did attempt 47 passes through two games (one start). If Maye were to suffer an injury, Dobbs possesses the experience, mobility, and arm needed to keep the Patriots competitive down the stretch.

From RotoBaller