As the NFL season approaches its final week, fantasy football managers face critical decisions on whom to start and whom to sit. With official inactivity lists released approximately 90 minutes before kickoff times, players must stay updated to avoid starting an inactive player. This article provides essential updates and analysis to help set your lineup effectively for this crucial week.
Key Player Updates for Early Games
The early games bring several notable absences and question marks that could significantly impact your fantasy strategy. Teams are prioritizing player health for the playoffs, leading to strategic rest periods for key contributors. Understanding these changes is vital for making informed lineup choices.
Darnell Mooney of the Atlanta Falcons is questionable due to a shoulder injury. While his participation remains uncertain, his potential absence could affect the team's offensive strategy. Amari Cooper from the Buffalo Bills has been ruled out for personal reasons, reducing his team’s receiving corps depth. Curtis Samuel, also from Buffalo, is dealing with rib injuries but might see significant action if he plays, given the starters' rest plan. Miles Sanders of the Carolina Panthers returns from IR but may not play much, while Xavier Legette, also from Carolina, is questionable with a hip injury. Christian Watson of the Green Bay Packers, nursing a knee injury, might sit to prepare for the postseason. Anthony Richardson of the Indianapolis Colts is out with a back issue, giving Joe Flacco another chance to shine. New England's Drake Maye, battling a hand injury, is questionable, which could elevate Jacoby Brissett’s role. Hunter Henry (foot) and Ja’Lynn Polk (shoulder) are both out for New England, while Kayshon Boutte, who was removed from the injury report, should play. In New Orleans, Derek Carr (hand) and Alvin Kamara (groin) are sidelined, opening opportunities for Spencer Rattler, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Jamaal Williams. Kendre Miller (concussion) is also out, likely increasing Jordan Mims’ playing time. For the Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Hurts (concussion), Saquon Barkley (team decision), and A.J. Brown (team decision) are all doubtful, affecting their offensive lineup. Lastly, Cade Otton of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is doubtful with a knee injury, potentially elevating Payne Durham’s role.
Late Afternoon and Evening Game Considerations
The late afternoon and evening games introduce additional challenges as teams finalize their strategies for the final week. Resting key players and managing injuries become paramount, impacting fantasy lineups significantly.
In Arizona, Matt Prater is out with a knee injury, leaving Chad Ryland as the replacement kicker. Michael Wilson (hamstring) is questionable, enhancing Greg Dortch’s value. Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City will likely rest, giving Carson Wentz the start. Isiah Pacheco (ribs) and Kareem Hunt (team decision) are both out, splitting carries between Samaje Perine and Carson Steele. Travis Kelce is also resting, possibly elevating Peyton Hendershot’s role. Mecole Hardman (knee) is out, but DeAndre Hopkins, Xavier Worthy, and Hollywood Brown might sit. For Los Angeles Chargers, Gus Edwards (ankle) and Joshua Palmer (foot) are both out, increasing J.K. Dobbins’ touches. Matthew Stafford of the Rams will likely rest, giving Jimmy Garoppulo the start. Kyren Williams and Cooper Kupp are both doubtful, opening opportunities for Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell. Ameer Abdullah of Las Vegas is out with a foot injury, leaving Alexander Mattison and rookie Dylan Laube to handle RB duties. Tua Tagovailoa of Miami (hip) is doubtful, likely replaced by Tyler Huntley. Tyreek Hill (wrist) and Jaylen Waddle (knee) are both questionable but expected to play, along with Malik Washington. Tyler Conklin of the New York Jets is questionable with a calf injury, making him a risky TE option. Brock Purdy of San Francisco is out with an elbow injury, leading to Joshua Dobbs’ start. George Kittle (ankle) and Deebo Samuel Sr. (ribs) are both out, elevating Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall. Finally, for the Detroit Lions, David Montgomery (knee) is out, leaving Jahmyr Gibbs with limited backup support if Craig Reynolds (back) sits. Kalif Raymond (foot) might return from IR to assist with returns.