Guest of the League
TBL2 Est. 2008
FFL: Offseason | NFL: Week 18

Vikings 4th-round pick Khyree Jackson dies in crash

Sat Jul 6 1:07pm ET
Field Level Media

Cornerback Khyree Jackson, a fourth-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in April's draft, was killed early Saturday in a three-car crash that left three people dead in Maryland.

He was 24.

According to Maryland State Police, Jackson was the front-seat passenger in a Dodge Charger that was struck by an Infiniti Q50 shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday in Prince George's County.

The Infiniti was attempting to change lanes and traveling at a high rate of speed when the car hit the Charger and then struck a Chevrolet Impala. The impact sent the Charger off the right side of the road, where it came to rest after hitting "multiple tree stumps," per the report.

The two other occupants of the Charger -- driver Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24 -- also were killed. Hazel and Jackson were pronounced dead at the scene, and Lytton was declared deceased at a hospital.

The driver of the Impala was uninjured, and the driver of the Infiniti, identified by police as Cori Clingman, and her two passengers were not hurt, according to authorities.

Police said alcohol could have contributed to the crash and charges were pending.

The death of Jackson, who reportedly was contending for a starting cornerback slot, left the organization stunned.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree's passing," Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wolf said in a statement. "Kyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people's lives. We are thinking about Khyree's family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss."

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said in a statement that he was "absolutely crushed" after hearing the news.

"Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team," O'Connell said. "His confidence and engaging personality immediately drew his teammates to him. In our short time together, it was evident Khyree was going to develop into a tremendous professional football player, but what was more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him. I am at a loss for words."

Jackson won two state titles at Dr. Henry Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, Md., before enrolling at Fort Smith Community College in 2019. He joined Alabama in 2021 and after two seasons and 21 games, he transferred to Oregon and was a first-team all-Pac-12 selection 2023. He started 12 regular-season games and led the Ducks with three interceptions and had 34 tackles (five for loss) and two sacks.

"RIP Khyree," Oregon coach Dan Lanning posted to social media. "Love you @Real_Khyree at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player better person."

Top Headlines
The Paur Report

Bender's DFS Pickem Plays: Week 18

Player Notes
Cade York Jan 5 7:30am ET
Cade York

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Cade York had a perfect night Saturday in Pittsburgh, converting all four field goal attempts and his lone extra point in a 19-17 victory that kept the Bengals' playoff hopes alive. After a brutal miss last week that forced the Bengals into a tense overtime against Denver, there was no such kicker drama in Week 18. The journeyman converted field goals from 48, 27, 35, and 23 yards, the last of which proved to be the game-winner as Cincinnati held on in the fourth quarter. Whether York gets the chance to kick in the postseason will come down to results elsewhere, as the Bengals need Denver and Miami to lose Sunday to make the AFC playoffs.

From RotoBaller

Tua Tagovailoa Jan 5 7:20am ET
Tua Tagovailoa

Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (hip) is unlikely to play Sunday against the New York Jets, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Miami will once again start backup quarterback Tyler Huntley, who oversaw the win in Cleveland last week, as they attempt to qualify for the playoffs, which would require another victory today and help elsewhere. Though Tagovailoa was widely expected to miss Week 18, the quarterback said this week that he can play next week if Miami advances. Rapoport, however, reported his status would be "up in the air" if Miami plays a Wild Card game. But first, the Dolphins have to get to that bridge before they can cross it.

From RotoBaller

Beanie Bishop Jr. Jan 5 2:50am ET
Beanie Bishop Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers held the red-hot Cincinnati Bengals offense to 19 points while recording four sacks, an interception, and two forced fumbles in a Week 18 loss. While the Bengals were able to move the ball effectively on Saturday night, the Steelers' defense stepped up in the red zone and forced them to kick four field goals. Rookie defensive back Beanie Bishop Jr. picked off quarterback Joe Burrow late in the second quarter with Cincinnati in Pittsburgh territory. The viability of Pittsburgh's DST for playoff fantasy leagues and DFS contests will largely depend on its opponent in the wild-card round.

From RotoBaller

Chris Boswell Jan 5 2:30am ET
Chris Boswell

Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell nailed his only field goal attempt and both of his extra-point tries in a 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Boswell's field goal, a 54-yarder, came in crunch time with Pittsburgh down by five points with fewer than three minutes remaining in the contest. Unfortunately, the Steelers were unable to move the ball into field goal range on their final possession to give Boswell an opportunity for a game-winner. The 33-year-old will conclude the most prolific campaign of his career with 41 made field goals and without missing a single extra-point attempt. Boswell can be started as a high-end option in playoff fantasy leagues and DFS contests when the wild-card round begins next weekend.

From RotoBaller

Pat Freiermuth Jan 5 2:20am ET
Pat Freiermuth

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth finished with eight receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown on 11 targets in a 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The lone bright spot for Pittsburgh's offense, Freiermuth led the team in all major receiving categories on Saturday night and came down with a 19-yard score in the fourth quarter on a throw by quarterback Russell Wilson. Freiermuth has an excellent track record against the Bengals and again had a strong showing against his division rival. He did, however, drop a pass on 4th and 12 that could have put the Steelers in range to kick a game-winning field goal with just seconds remaining on the clock. Nonetheless, Freiermuth has been rather productive for fantasy lately and will remain a solid starting option next weekend in playoff leagues and DFS contests.

From RotoBaller

Jaylen Warren Jan 5 2:00am ET
Jaylen Warren

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren logged six carries for 21 yards and failed to haul in his one target in a Week 18 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Although neither Warren nor Najee Harris were able to get much going on the ground, the former's lack of usage through the air on Saturday night was a bit puzzling. Harris earned five targets while Warren was held without a reception for the first time this season. His utilization has been inconsistent, but Warren continues to look like the most explosive back in Pittsburgh while demonstrating an ability to break tackles at a high level. The third-year pro will carry some RB2 value in PPR playoff fantasy leagues and DFS contests alike when the wild-card round kicks off next weekend.

From RotoBaller

George Pickens Jan 5 2:00am ET
George Pickens

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens came down with just one of his six targets and finished with zero receiving yards in a Week 18 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. It was a night to forget for both Pickens and his fantasy managers. Pickens recorded his only catch of the contest on Pittsburgh's first possession but was unable to gain any yardage on the play. He then proceeded to drop multiple passes from quarterback Russell Wilson while the Steelers attempted to mount a comeback. Pickens has flashed elite fantasy upside but did not establish himself as a reliable WR1 this season. He'll project as a high-risk, high-reward fantasy option next weekend in playoff leagues and DFS contests.

From RotoBaller

Najee Harris Jan 5 1:50am ET
Najee Harris

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris handled 12 carries for 36 yards and a touchdown while adding four receptions for 20 yards in a 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Harris briefly exited the contest in the second half to be evaluated for a head injury but was cleared to return. Pittsburgh's offense could not lean on Harris and the ground game on Saturday night while struggling to sustain drives. Still, the 26-year-old salvaged his fantasy performance with some opportunities in the passing game and a one-yard rushing score in the second quarter. It was a successful regular season for Harris, who eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards for a fourth consecutive campaign. Although his opponent is yet to be determined, Harris should offer a solid floor for fantasy managers in playoff leagues or DFS contests next weekend.

From RotoBaller

Russell Wilson Jan 5 1:30am ET
Russell Wilson

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson completed 17 of his 31 pass attempts for 148 yards and one touchdown while adding 16 rushing yards on four carries in a 19-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran was sacked four times and couldn't get into a rhythm through the air with any pass-catcher except tight end Pat Freiermuth, who was on the receiving end of Wilson's 19-yard passing score in the fourth quarter. After going 6-1 through his first seven starts in Pittsburgh, Wilson will enter the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs having lost four straight. He will be difficult to trust in playoff fantasy leagues and DFS contests regardless of the Steelers' opponent next weekend.

From RotoBaller

Tony Pollard Jan 5 12:50am ET
Tony Pollard

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard (ankle) is anticipated to suit up on Sunday against the Texans. Pollard has been dealing with an ankle injury for a few weeks. However, it finally kept him off the field for the Week 17 loss to the Jags. Tyjae Spears (concussion) for the start in that one. Unfortunately, Spears suffered a concussion and won't suit up in Week 18. With Pollard expected back in the mix, Julius Chestnut, who had three attempts for 17 yards versus Jacksonville, likely won't see as much action, severely restricting his fantasy potential. But Pollard's outlook isn't as favorable either, with the Texans defense allowing only eight touchdowns to opposing backs this season, one of the best marks in the National Football League.

From RotoBaller

Darnell Mooney Jan 5 12:40am ET
Darnell Mooney

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney (shoulder) is "considered a long-shot" to suit up for Sunday's meeting with the Carolina Panthers. The wideout is currently listed as questionable for Week 18. However, Rapoport added that it will be an "uphill battle" for Mooney to get on the field. He has had arguably the best season of his career in 2024-25, totaling 992 yards and five touchdowns off 64 catches. With the Falcons still alive for the postseason, Mooney will be needed. But if he's not out there, Drake London will presumably see more attention from Michael Penix Jr. The same can be said for Kyle Pitts and Ray-Ray McCloud III.

From RotoBaller

Zay Flowers Jan 5 12:30am ET
Zay Flowers

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers (knee) likely suffered a knee sprain in Saturday's win over the Cleveland Browns. The 24-year-old wasn't involved long on Saturday night, catching only one pass before his abrupt departure. He'll undergo an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. However, it's believed Flowers didn't suffer a "major injury." The 2023 No. 22 overall pick had a productive regular season, totaling 74 catches for 1,059 yards and four touchdowns, so the team could use him on the field for the Wild-Card round. But if Flowers doesn't suit up, Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews, combining for nine catches for 130 yards and two scores in Week 18, should remain Lamar Jackson's preferred targets. Of course, Derrick Henry will stay involved, potentially seeing a small uptick in carries.

From RotoBaller

Mike Gesicki Jan 5 12:00am ET
Mike Gesicki

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki had eight catches for 68 yards in Saturday's victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The veteran hasn't been consistent during the 2024-25 campaign. Yet, after catching 10 passes for 86 yards in the overtime win over the Broncos, he had another potent showing in Week 18. Gesicki signed a one-year deal to join the Bengals during the offseason. It's likely the team will look to bring him back, considering he was starting to build rapport with quarterback Joe Burrow. Either way, Gesicki is worth monitoring in fantasy drafts heading into next season, although he may benefit the most from a statistical standpoint by remaining in Cincinnati.

From RotoBaller

Andrei Iosivas Jan 5 12:00am ET
Andrei Iosivas

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Andrei Iosivas had only two catches for 12 yards in Saturday's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The wideout has had the best year since entering the league, totaling a career-high six touchdowns to end the 2024-25 campaign. However, he still hasn't been consistent by any means. With that in mind, Tee Higgins (ankle) future in Cincinnati is up in the air, so there could be room for Iosivas to win the No. 2 job behind Ja'Marr Chase heading into next season. Yet, the front office may finally come to their senses and do what is necessary to retain Higgins, which wouldn't be good for Iosivas' outlook moving forward.

From RotoBaller

Khalil Herbert Jan 4 11:50pm ET
Khalil Herbert

Cincinnati Bengals running back Khalil Herbert got the start for the injured Chase Brown (ankle) in Saturday's crucial win over the Steelers. The 26-year-old, who was acquired by the Bengals in November, had played sparingly since arriving in Cincinnati. However, he did exactly what was needed on Saturday night, running for 69 yards off 20 carries while adding seven catches for 14 yards. The Bengals still have a shot at the postseason. But if Herbert's season is finished, he'll likely draw interest from at least a few teams in free agency. With that said, unless he gets a meaningful role in 2025-26, his fantasy upside will remain capped.

From RotoBaller

Ja'Marr Chase Jan 4 11:40pm ET
Ja'Marr Chase

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase caught 10 of his 14 targets for 96 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's win over the Steelers. The former LSU Tiger didn't find the end zone in Week 17 versus the Broncos. However, he showed up in a big way on Saturday to help keep the Bengals' postseason hopes alive. With that said, Chase has had an impressive year, amassing 1,708 yards, 127 grabs, and 17 touchdowns, making him a top-five overall option in fantasy drafts entering the 2025-26 campaign.

From RotoBaller

Joe Burrow Jan 4 11:30pm ET
Joe Burrow

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow threw for 277 yards, one touchdown, and one pick off 37-for-46 passing in Saturday's much-needed win over the Steelers. The signal-caller entered Week 18 by tossing at least three touchdowns each of his last eight appearances. While he cooled off on Saturday night, he still did enough to lead the Bengals to another victory while keeping the team's postseason hopes alive. With that in mind, regardless of what happens with Cincinnati concerning the playoffs, Burrow will be a top-five quarterback in all fantasy drafts heading into the 2025-26 campaign.

From RotoBaller

Tee Higgins Jan 4 11:20pm ET
Tee Higgins

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins (ankle) exited Saturday's 19-17 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers and did not reenter. The 25-year-old was forced from the contest in the third quarter and was initially deemed questionable to return. However, he was not seen again after injuring his ankle. Cincinnati's offense missed him when he was gone -- having trouble moving the ball with Pittsburgh keyed in on teammate Ja'Marr Chase. Before leaving, Higgins caught 4-of-5 targets for 53 yards. Despite not returning, he was not immediately ruled out, which is a positive sign. With the Bengals snagging another win, they'll need some help tomorrow to punch their ticket to the playoffs.

From RotoBaller

Matt Gay Jan 4 10:10pm ET
Matt Gay

Indianapolis Colts placekicker Matt Gay will be a fringe top option in Week 18 when his team hosts the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars. The sixth-year pro has been excellent in his second season with the Colts -- hammering home all 31 extra-point attempts and missing just five field goals. It starkly contrasts his 2023 season when he missed eight of them and an additional extra point. Jacksonville has been one of the more favorable matchups for kickers this season -- letting up 8.6 fantasy points per game to the position. Quarterback Joe Flacco will again play in an injured Anthony Richardson's (back) stead, and he moved the ball well last week in their 45-33 loss to the Giants. Gay should again be productive and comes in at RotoBaller's K12 in this week's ranks.

From RotoBaller

Jordan Akins Jan 4 10:00pm ET
Jordan Akins

Cleveland Browns tight end Jordan Akins caught six of his eight targets for 60 yards and a touchdown in a 35-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18. Akins caught Bailey Zappe's lone touchdown pass in the contest on a 16-yard reception in the fourth quarter. The veteran tight end turned in a strong showing starting in place of the injured David Njoku (knee) over Cleveland's final two games of the season, catching 12 passes for 109 yards and a touchdown. Akins is an unrestricted free-agent heading into the offseason as he will hope to parlay his strong performance at the end of the season into a new contract somewhere in 2025.

From RotoBaller