Mon Aug 4 4:22pm ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer

RealTime Fantasy Sports is proud to present you the results of our “Champions Draft." The draft this season once again consists of the top rated fantasy players on our site. We invited players rated near the top of our Top Fantasy Players report. So this is the best of the best on our site.
In this column, we'll give you a round-by-round look at the draft. Each round includes some notes on that round, talking about what just went down. Hopefully, this gives you some insight into the draft and helps prepare you for all your drafts this coming year. I also give you a look at my pick each round and my thought process with that pick.
Before we get to that, here is a quick overview of the league format. We used the same rules as we do for the "All-Pro" fantasy leagues on our site. So you can view the entire set of rules on our main page for that game. But here is a brief look. Each team starts a quarterback, two running backs, two receivers, a tight end, a defensive/special teams, a kicker and a flex player (RB, WR or TE). Scoring is pretty standard. Touchdowns are worth six except for passing touchdowns, which are worth four. And it is a points per reception league, giving every player a point per reception. Defenses get points for sacks, interceptions and fumble recoveries. The rules are pretty standard with how many leagues operate these days.
ROUND 1
1.1 PaurPlay - Ja’Marr Chase
1.2 Fozzy Dog - Bijan Robinson
1.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jahmyr Gibbs
1.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Saquon Barkley
1.5 Super Paurs - CeeDee Lamb
1.6 Sensei John Kreese - Justin Jefferson
1.7 Suncoast - Ashton Jeanty
1.8 Bubbles Army - Christian McCaffrey
1.9 Yang's Team - Malik Nabers
1.10 Crusty - Devon Achane
1.11 Birds - Puka Nacua
1.12 Wreckingcrew - Derrick Henry
NOTES: The first round was pretty chalk, going very similar to the current ADP. These savvy owners didn’t take many chances with the first round. There were seven running backs and five receivers picked in Round 1. The trend of more running-back heavy in the early rounds continued in this draft. Last season in this same league, five running backs were picked in Round 1 compared to seven this year. It was not a surprise to see no tight ends or quarterbacks picked in the first round. Amon-Ra St. Brown was the only player with a current ADP in the first round that wasn’t picked by this group. And St. Brown went with the first pick in Round 2.
MY PICK: CeeDee Lamb. I felt Lamb was the safest of the options on the board. I didn’t expect any of the top three backs to be there and felt Lamb was going to be the pick. It played out that way and I’m happy with getting him. He should be a target monster in a pass-heavy offense. I feel he might be the safest of all the first-round picks this year. His floor is super high in this offense.
ROUND 2
2.1 Wreckingcrew - Amon-Ra St. Brown
2.2 Birds - Brian Thomas Jr.
2.3 Crusty - Josh Jacobs
2.4 Yang's Team - Nico Collins
2.5 Bubbles Army - Drake London
2.6 Suncoast - A.J. Brown
2.7 Sensei John Kreese - Jonathan Taylor
2.8 Super Paurs - Chase Brown
2.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Lamar Jackson
2.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Bucky Irving
2.11 Fozzy Dog - Brock Bowers
2.12 PaurPlay - Alvin Kamara
NOTES: Round 2 saw our first quarterback and tight end picked. BigHawgBreach grabbed Lamar Jackson with the ninth pick this round. This might be a tad early on Jackson (26.69 ADP), but it was a tossup on whether he would be available for him the next round. . . . .Brock Bowers goes to Fozzy Dog at the end of the round. He goes a little after his ADP (20.14) but not by much. . . . .Two teams (Birds and Yang’s Team) go receiver-receiver with their first two picks. And Maxx_Money is the only team to take running backs with his first two picks.
MY PICK: Chase Brown. I was hoping for Jonathan Taylor here but he goes one pick before me to Sensei John Kreese. I’ll take Brown, though. Had some debate between him and Bucky Irving, but just feel Brown is the better pick at this point. He had a breakout season last year and didn’t even open the year as the starter. He starts from day one this year in an explosive offense. Plus, he has little competition for carries. I think he can build on last year.
ROUND 3
3.1 PaurPlay - Kyren Williams
3.2 Fozzy Dog - Garrett Wilson
3.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Ladd McConkey
3.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Trey McBride
3.5 Super Paurs - Breece Hall
3.6 Sensei John Kreese - Tyreek Hill
3.7 Suncoast - Tee Higgins
3.8 Bubbles Army - Jaxon Smith-Njigba
3.9 Yang's Team - Josh Allen
3.10 Crusty - Marvin Harrison Jr.
3.11 Birds - Omarion Hampton
3.12 Wreckingcrew - James Cook
NOTES: Just like the previous round, this round had a quarterback and tight end selected. The rest of the picks were running backs and tight ends. Trey McBride and Josh Allen were the players selected at tight end and quarterback. BigHawgBreach is the only team without a receiver on their roster after three rounds. . . .Yang’s team took Allen and is the only team without a running back after three rounds. . . . Birds picked rookie running back Omarion Hampton with the 11th pick this round. Hampton’s ADP is climbing in a hurry, though, after the injury to Najee Harris. Hampton’s ADP has jumped five spots recently (33.45).
MY PICK: Breece Hall. I was worried about the backs that will be left once I pick again, so felt going Hall was the right move. I know he carries some questions with more of a timeshare expected in New York this year, but he is the top pass-catching back. This gives him a high weekly ceiling in my view. I still think he can produce big even if he is splitting more work. Hall has a lot to prove this year and should play with a chip on his shoulder.
ROUND 4
4.1 Wreckingcrew - Joe Burrow
4.2 Birds - Jayden Daniels
4.3 Crusty - Davante Adams
4.4 Yang's Team - Chuba Hubbard
4.5 Bubbles Army - George Kittle
4.6 Suncoast - Jalen Hurts
4.7 Sensei John Kreese - Kenneth Walker III
4.8 Super Paurs - D.J. Moore
4.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Rashee Rice
4.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Mike Evans
4.11 Fozzy Dog - Terry McLaurin
4.12 PaurPlay - Tetairoa McMillan
NOTES: This was the first round that had multiple quarterbacks picked, seeing three fly off the board. Surprisingly, there were just two running backs selected. That is the fewest in any round to start the draft. . . . .The most popular strategy through four rounds is to have two running backs and two receivers on your roster. Five of the 12 teams have this combination on their team. . . .PaurPlay is the first team to pick a rookie receiver, getting Tet McMillan with the last pick in the round. This is a tad sooner than his ADP (57.55), but he wasn’t going to be there when PaurPlay got to pick again at the end of the sixth round.
MY PICK: D.J. Moore. This pick scares me some with all the mouths to feed in Chicago and still some questions about quarterback Caleb Williams. But even with that said, Moore is a super consistent player in what should be a pass-heavy offense. I think he can rack up the catches once again and serve as a more than solid WR2 for me. I was really close to getting Tet McMillan here but passed in hopes of him being available for me in Round 5.
ROUND 5
5.1 PaurPlay - D’Andre Swift
5.2 Fozzy Dog - Courtland Sutton
5.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Xavier Worthy
5.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - James Conner
5.5 Super Paurs - Calvin Ridley
5.6 Sensei John Kreese - Sam LaPorta
5.7 Suncoast - D.K. Metcalf
5.8 Bubbles Army - TreVeyon Henderson
5.9 Yang's Team - RJ Harvey
5.10 Crusty - Travis Kelce
5.11 Birds - DeVonta Smith
5.12 Wreckingcrew - Zay Flowers
NOTES: There was not a single quarterback picked this round but two tight ends were selected (Sam LaPorta and Travis Kelce). It was another receiver-heavy round, seeing six receivers get picked. . . . .PaurPlay is the only team to have three running backs after five rounds, getting D’Andre Swift with the first pick this round. . . .On the flip side, five teams have three receivers on their roster at this point of the draft. Running backs went early and often in the draft but teams are now loading up on receivers after those first few rounds.
MY PICK: Calvin Ridley. Ridley is one of my favorite values this year. He is the clear top target for Cam Ward and I wouldn’t be surprised if he has a career-best season. This is a huge upgrade for him at quarterback, which is great for Ridley, who was still able to produce good numbers last year in this offense. I absolutely love Ridley as a WR3 or flex play on a weekly basis.
ROUND 6
6.1 Wreckingcrew - Evan Engram
6.2 Birds - Kaleb Johnson
6.3 Crusty - Rome Odunze
6.4 Yang's Team - Joe Mixon
6.5 Bubbles Army - George Pickens
6.6 Suncoast - David Montgomery
6.7 Sensei John Kreese - Patrick Mahomes
6.8 Super Paurs - Tony Pollard
6.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Isiah Pacheco
6.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Aaron Jones
6.11 Fozzy Dog - Jaydon Blue
6.12 PaurPlay - Jerry Jeudy
NOTES: Rookie Jaydon Blue continues to shoot up draft boards, being the first of the Cowboys running backs picked. Fozzy Dog got him with the 11th pick this round. His ADP is 108.89, so this pick was a little earlier than anticipated. . . . .This is another round with just a quarterback and tight end picked. It was a more running-back heavy round, seeing seven backs go. . . . .Half the teams have a quarterback after six rounds. And half have a tight end as well. Three teams (PaurPlay, Maxx_Money and Super Paurs) only have running backs and receivers on their roster.
MY PICK: Tony Pollard. I go with Titans on back-to-back picks. This wasn’t a plan by any means, getting players on what could be bad teams, but it just worked out that way. Pollard might split more work this year but at this point of the draft, I’m totally fine with getting him as my third running back. I can use him as a flex play in the right matchup and spot play as my RB2.
ROUND 7
7.1 PaurPlay - Matthew Golden
7.2 Fozzy Dog - T.J. Hockenson
7.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jameson Williams
7.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Chris Godwin
7.5 Super Paurs - Baker Mayfield
7.6 Sensei John Kreese - Chris Olave
7.7 Suncoast - Deebo Samuel
7.8 Bubbles Army - Jaylen Waddle
7.9 Yang's Team - Travis Hunter
7.10 Crusty - Stefon Diggs
7.11 Birds - Jordan Addison
7.12 Wreckingcrew - Cam Skattebo
NOTES: Receivers were flying off the board this round. There were a total of nine receivers picked. It was a mix of veterans, rookies, players returning from injury and some wild cards. There were a lot of boom or bust picks. . . .Rookie Cam Skattebo was the only running back selected, going with the last pick. Wreckingcrew took Skattebo, who went ahead of teammate Tyrone Tracy. . . .PaurPlay and Maxx_Money continued their trend of going running back and receiver. It is just those two teams that have all running backs and receivers after seven rounds. Super Paur took quarterback Baker Mayfield, giving him a different position for the first time. . . . .Fozzy Dog is the first team to take a second tight end, selecting T.J. Hockenson with the second pick. He pairs Hockenson with Brock Bowers, giving him quite the one-two punch at tight end.
MY PICK: Baker Mayfield. I just couldn’t pass up the value of Mayfield here. I was surprised he was still sitting there. Sure, he isn’t a running quarterback, but his passing numbers can be off the charts. He has some of the best receivers to work with in all of football - even better than last year. Mayfield is going to post some huge numbers. I wouldn’t be surprised if he leads all of football in passing yards and passing touchdowns.
ROUND 8
8.1 Wreckingcrew - Jauan Jennings
8.2 Birds - Zach Charbonnet
8.3 Crusty - Caleb Williams
8.4 Yang's Team - Tyrone Tracy Jr.
8.5 Bubbles Army - Bo Nix
8.6 Suncoast - Jaylen Warren
8.7 Sensei John Kreese - Brian Robinson Jr.
8.8 Super Paurs - Tank Bigsby
8.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Emeka Egbuka
8.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Ricky Pearsall
8.11 Fozzy Dog - Javonte Williams
8.12 PaurPlay - Colston Loveland
NOTES: Two more teams got their quarterback this round, making it eight of 12 teams with a signal caller. . . .This was the round with running backs in possible time shares. Some of the backs picked were Tyrone Tracy, Jaylen Warren, Brian Robinson, Tank Bigsby and Javonte Williams. All of these guys have some question marks and some undefined roles for the coming season. The position is thinning out in a hurry after eight rounds.
MY PICK: Tank Bigsby. This is my real first risky pick. Bigsby has been getting the first snaps often in training camp, so he is the back I trust most in this offense right now. I’m good with taking a chance on him as my fourth running back. Bigsby has some potential if getting the goal-line work and early-down carries for the Jaguars.
ROUND 9
9.1 PaurPlay - Tyjae Spears
9.2 Fozzy Dog - Cooper Kupp
9.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - J.K. Dobbins
9.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Mark Andrews
9.5 Super Paurs - Jake Ferguson
9.6 Sensei John Kreese - Travis Etienne
9.7 Suncoast - Jayden Reed
9.8 Bubbles Army - Jordan Mason
9.9 Yang's Team - Quinshon Judkins
9.10 Crusty - Jerome Ford
9.11 Birds - Tyler Warren
9.12 Wreckingcrew - Rhamondre Stevenson
NOTES: This was the most tight-end heavy round, having three picked. We had a rookie (Tyler Warren) and two veterans (Mark Andrews and Jake Ferguson). . . . .Yang’s team took a chance on rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, who faces an uncertain future because of his off-the-field issues. Judkins is plummeting in drafts right now, seeing his ADP dip 15 spots the last week. . . . .There was not a single quarterback picked in Round 9, so four teams still need a QB1 after nine rounds.
MY PICK: Jake Ferguson. If I’m going to wait to take a tight end, Ferguson is one of my favorite targets. I hate to get two Cowboy pass catchers in my starting lineup, though. That is my only trepidation with this pick. But even with that said, they are going to throw the ball a ton and I think Ferguson gets the second most targets. He will be a pretty dependable weekly tight end for me.
ROUND 10
10.1 Wreckingcrew - Kyler Murray
10.2 Birds - Braelon Allen
10.3 Crusty - Kyle Pitts
10.4 Yang's Team Tucker Kraft
10.5 Bubbles Army - Isaac Guerendo
10.6 Suncoast - Najee Harris
10.7 Sensei John Kreese - Jakobi Meyers
10.8 Super Paurs - Khalil Shakir
10.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Jalen McMillan
10.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - David Njoku
10.11 Fozzy Dog - Justin Fields
10.12 PaurPlay - Dak Prescott
NOTES: Two of the three teams without a quarterback took one this round. Maxx_Money is now the only team without a quarterback after 10 rounds. The quarterbacks picked this round were Kyler Murray, Justin Fields and Dak Prescott. . . .Wreckingcrew is the first team to get a second quarterback. He pairs Joe Burrow with Murray. . . .This is the first round Maxx_Money took a player other than a running back or receiver. He got tight end David Njoku to be his TE1. . . . Bubbles Army picked running back Isaac Guerendo with the fifth pick. He is considered the top handcuff in the game and he did well to pair him with his first-round pick of Christian McCaffrey.
MY PICK: Khalil Shakir. His high-ankle sprain is a concern, but Shakir should be ready for Week 1. And I still think he leads the team in targets despite the Bills upgrading options in the passing game this offseason. He had a breakout season last year and has quickly become the favorite target of Josh Allen. I like him as a reserve receiver at this point of the draft. This might be my favorite pick of my draft.
ROUND 11
11.1 PaurPlay - Josh Downs
11.2 Fozzy Dog - Miles Sanders
11.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Rachaad White
11.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brock Purdy
11.5 Super Paurs - Michael Pittman Jr.
11.6 Sensei John Kreese - Trey Benson
11.7 Suncoast - Dallas Goedert
11.8 Bubbles Army - Dalton Kincaid
11.9 Yang's Team - Keon Coleman
11.10 Crusty - Austin Ekeler
11.11 Birds - Tre Harris
11.12 Wreckingcrew - Jonnu Smith
NOTES: There is still one team without a quarterback (Maxx_Money) while BigHawgBreach is the second team to add a second quarterback. He took Brock Purdy with the fourth pick, putting him with Lamar Jackson. . . .Suncoast is the last team to get a TE1, taking Dallas Goedert with the seventh pick. He pairs Goedert with his starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts. . . .There were three tight ends picked. And five of the 12 teams now have two tight ends on their roster.
MY PICK: Michael Pittman. This is a boom-or-bust pick but I like taking a chance on Pittman here. He is a guy that has topped 100 receptions in the past and remains the No. 1 receiver for the Colts. If Anthony Richardson can figure it out, you have to like Pittman for a rebound season. Remember, He was slowed by a back injury most of last year. His past numbers don’t lie. He can be a very productive fantasy receiver if all is well for him.
ROUND 12
12.1 Wreckingcrew - Jayden Higgins
12.2 Birds - Ray Davis
12.3 Crusty - Tyler Allgeier
12.4 Yang's Team - Drake Maye
12.5 Bubbles Army - Darnell Mooney
12.6 Suncoast - Christian Kirk
12.7 Sensei John Kreese - Brandon Aubrey
12.8 Super Paurs - Luther Burden III
12.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brandon Aiyuk
12.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Jared Goff
12.11 Fozzy Dog - Denver Broncos
12.12 PaurPlay - Nick Chubb
NOTES: We have our first kicker and defense picked this round. Sensei John Kreese picked kicker Brandon Aubrey with the seventh pick. And Fozzy Dog picked the Broncos with the 11th pick. . . .Maxx_Money finally got his QB1, taking Jared Goff with the 10th pick. There are just three teams with two quarterbacks on their roster after 12 rounds.
MY PICK: Luther Burden. I would have liked the rookie receiver a lot more if he landed on a different team, but I still think he has a solid rookie season as the No. 3 receiver in this offense. He is enjoying an up-and-down training camp but flashed plenty of great things, showing his potential. He can be a top player in this league and I look for the Bears to get him involved in the offense plenty his rookie year. This is a good depth piece for me.
ROUND 13
13.1 PaurPlay - C.J. Stroud
13.2 Fozzy Dog - Kyle Williams
13.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Justin Herbert
13.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Marquise Brown
13.5 Super Paurs - Chigoziem Okonkwo
13.6 Sensei John Kreese - J.J. McCarthy
13.7 Suncoast - Dylan Sampson
13.8 Bubbles Army - Trevor Lawrence
13.9 Yang's Team - Brenton Strange
13.10 Crusty - Xavier Legette
13.11 Birds - Elijah Arroyo
13.12 Wreckingcrew - Jaylen Wright
NOTES: Four teams got their backup quarterback this round. Some notable names selected were C.J. Stroud and Justin Herbert. Maxx_Money went back-to-back quarterbacks after waiting 11 rounds to get his first. He pairs Herbert with Goff. . . .There were plenty of teams taking chances on rookies, seeing Kyle Williams, Dylan Sampson and Elijah Arroyo picked. . . . There was not a single kicker or defense picked after seeing two get picked for the first time the previous round.
MY PICK: Chigoziem Okonkwo. This gives me a third Titan. Not ideal. But I like the prospects of Okonkwo with Cam Ward now his starting quarterback. Rookie quarterbacks like to target the tight end. Okonkwo didn’t have quite the breakout season most expected last year but Ward is a huge upgrade at quarterback for him. I think Okonkwo can have a career-best season and serve the backup tight end role well for me.
ROUND 14
14.1 Wreckingcrew - Jalen Royals
14.2 Birds - Buffalo Bills
14.3 Crusty - Tua Tagovailoa
14.4 Yang's Team - Rashid Shaheed
14.5 Bubbles Army - Bhayshul Tuten
14.6 Suncoast - Jordan Love
14.7 Sensei John Kreese - Philadelphia Eagles
14.8 Super Paurs - Bryce Young
14.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Brashard Smith
14.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Kareem Hunt
14.11 Fozzy Dog - Will Shipley
14.12 PaurPlay - Houston Texans
NOTES: Three defenses were picked but not a single kicker. You do not need to leave the draft with a player drafted at every position, though, so some teams are likely to just not draft a kicker or defense. . . .Quarterback Jordan Love was a popular pick last season but falls all the way to the sixth pick in Round 14. He will be the backup quarterback for Suncoast, backing up Hurts. . . .There were two Chiefs running backs picked with consecutive picks. Rookie Brashard Smith was picked right ahead of veteran Kareem Hunt. BigHawgBreach already had Isiah Pacheco on his roster before taking Smith this round.
MY PICK: Bryce Young. I like taking a chance on Young as my QB2. He had a great finish to last season, finally showing his potential. The Panthers did well to upgrade around him offensively, finally giving him a legit No. 1 receiver. Young can build on last year and see his numbers be even more consistent this season. He should be a solid backup for me.
ROUND 15
15.1 PaurPlay - Mason Taylor
15.2 Fozzy Dog - Jarquez Hunter
15.3 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Zach Ertz
15.4 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Marvin Mims
15.5 Super Paurs - Cameron Dicker
15.6 Sensei John Kreese - Darren Waller
15.7 Suncoast - Isaiah Likely
15.8 Bubbles Army - Baltimore Ravens
15.9 Yang's Team - Pittsburgh Steelers
15.10 Crusty - Jake Bates
15.11 Birds - Chase McLaughlin
15.12 Wreckingcrew - Brandon McManus
NOTES: There were four backup tight ends picked this round, including Mason Taylor, Zach Ertz, Darren Waller and Isaiah Likely. . . . .Six of the other eight picks were either kickers or defenses. It was pretty standard for this point of the draft.
MY PICK: Cameron Dicker. I really wanted to get Brandon Aubrey a few picks earlier but he went before I could take him. I see the value in getting a top kicker a little more these days. I think Dicker is a top-five option his year, capable of very consistent numbers in this offense. He should get plenty of weekly chances.
ROUND 16
16.1 Wreckingcrew - Los Angeles Rams
16.2 Birds - Anthony Richardson
16.3 Crusty - New York Giants
16.4 Yang's Team - Ka’imi Fairbairn
16.5 Bubbles Army - Wil Lutz
16.6 Suncoast - Josh Palmer
16.7 Sensei John Kreese - Jack Bech
16.8 Super Paurs - Dallas Cowboys
16.9 BigHawgBreach Silverback - Kansas City Chiefs
16.10 MAXX_MONEY CHAMPS - Minnesota Vikings
16.11 Fozzy Dog - Devin Neal
16.12 PaurPlay - Harrison Butker
NOTES: This was mostly a not very exciting round of kickers and defenses. Of the 12 picks, eight were either kickers or defenses. PaurPlay had the honor of the last pick in the draft and took kicker Harrison Butker to round out his roster.
MY PICK: Cowboys defense. This unit didn’t live up to quite their potential this year but injuries were an issue. They can get after the quarterback and their secondary will take chances. I think they will be a more than solid No. 1 defense for me.
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 jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
Los Angeles Chargers DT Naquan Jones was claimed off waivers by the Houston Texans on Tuesday, Dec. 9. DB Jalen Mills was waived from the practice squad in a corresponding move.
From TheHuddle
Washington Commanders WR Chris Moore was signed to the practice squad Tuesday, Dec. 9, and WR River Cracraft was released from the practice squad.
From TheHuddle
Free-agent TEs Colin Granger, Dalton Keene and Gee Scott each worked out for the Washington Commanders on Tuesday, Dec. 9, while also working out DBs Keenan Isaac and Kevon Seymour.
From TheHuddle
Cleveland Browns CB Denzel Ward Jr. (calf) left the Week 14 game against the Tennessee Titans due to a calf injury, and head coach Kevin Stefanski has yet to offer an update on the cornerback's injury.
From TheHuddle
Cleveland Browns TE David Njoku (knee) has been slowed by a knee injury, and he aggravated that injury in Week 14 against the Tennessee Titans on a touchdown reception.
Fantasy Spin: Njoku has fallen behind rookie Harold Fannin Jr. on the depth chart, and now he is dealing with a knee injury yet again. At this critical juncture of the fantasy season, Njoku just cannot be trusted. If you're kept him on the roster to this point, it's safe to drop him outside of deeper leagues.
From TheHuddle
Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin has operated as the team's No. 2 wide receiver opposite Courtland Sutton for the vast majority of the season. However, his role in the offense has decreased lately, beginning in Week 13 against the Washington Commanders. The second-year wideout played 37 offensive snaps in that game, his lowest all season at that time, but his 68.8% route share still aligned with his season average of 71.6%. Both marks plummeted in the Week 14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, as his snaps were cut in half to just 19 and his route share dipped to a season-low 39.5%. Rookie third-rounder Pat Bryant has seemingly overtaken him as the No. 2 option opposite Sutton. After leading the Broncos in targets for most of the season, Franklin's role has been cut back due to his inconsistent hands and limitations as a run-blocker. He profiles as a low-ceiling flex option heading into Week 15 against a tough Green Bay Packers defense.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud has been solid in two games since returning from a three-game absence due to a concussion. Week 14 against the Kansas City Chiefs wasn't his cleanest performance statistically, as he completed just 48.4% of his passes, but he made plays for the Texans when he needed to. Before his head injury in Week 9 against Denver, the 24-year-old signal-caller was starting to get into a rhythm. In Weeks 4-8, Stroud completed 68.5% of his passes for 1,024 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions while adding 96 yards on 14 carries on the ground over four games. He averaged 21.1 fantasy points per game during that span, ranking as the QB9. Overall, the Texans' offense hasn't been efficient enough to support multiple reliable contributors in fantasy this season. Stroud profiles as a mid-range QB2 option in Week 15 against the Arizona Cardinals.
From RotoBaller
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (neck) has been on Injured Reserve for the entire year after suffering a serious neck injury during a preseason game in mid-August, but he seems to be getting close to a return. The second-year wideout was a limited participant every day in practice last week and has logged two limited practices on Monday and Tuesday of this week ahead of Thursday Night Football against the Atlanta Falcons. His status in Wednesday's practice will likely determine if he can play on Thursday. The 24-year-old ended his rookie season on a heater, hauling in 24 of his 31 targets for 316 yards and seven touchdowns over the final five games. McMillan will be vying for targets in a crowded Tampa Bay WR room that could also be getting No. 1 receiver Mike Evans (collarbone) back in Week 15. McMillan will be an extremely volatile deep-league option if he is active on Thursday night.
From RotoBaller
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs hasn't been a big fantasy factor this season, recording 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. After a promising sophomore campaign last year, Downs hasn't been emphasized with three other talented pass-catchers in the Colts' offense, plus a lean towards the run with a superstar back Jonathan Taylor. With quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the season and 44-year-old Philip Rivers expected to be the team's starter moving forward, it's possible that Downs' opportunities will increase with Rivers primarily operating in the short area of the field. The 24-year-old's fantasy upside is still capped while being limited to routes in three-wide receiver sets. Downs still profiles as a deep-league flex option for a tough Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, but his floor is probably lower now with Jones done for the year.
From RotoBaller
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney failed to deliver once again with fellow receiver Drake London (knee) missing Week 14's 37-9 loss to the Seahawks, logging just one catch on four targets for six yards. The 28-year-old nearly had a touchdown catch, but stepped on the sideline before coming back inbounds to make the reception, nullifying the score. After a 64-catch season in 2024, accumulating nearly 1000 yards (992) and five touchdowns, it has been a season to forget for Mooney, now with just 22 catches for 329 yards and one score with just four games to go. London was a DNP on Monday, so he could miss another contest, but it will likely be a boon to Kyle Pitts Sr.'s stats, not Mooney's. Week 15 brings a matchup with the Buccaneers on the road on Thursday night, against a Tampa Bay pass defense that is middle of the pack in terms of fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers. The veteran will likely be a risky WR4/Flex option in what will be the first round of the fantasy playoffs for most managers.
From RotoBaller
Denver Broncos running back Jaleel McLaughlin was inactive for nine out of his team's first 10 games of the 2025 season. However, the 25-year-old has been pressed into a more prominent role in recent weeks after Denver lost veteran running back J.K. Dobbins to a season-ending foot injury in Week 10. Across the team's last three games, McLaughlin has recorded 75 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 19 touches. Broncos rookie back RJ Harvey has taken over the RB1 in Denver, which limits McLaughlin's upside. However, McLaughlin could now be one injury away from stepping into a lead role in the Broncos' backfield. In leagues with 12 or more teams, fantasy managers should consider stashing McLaughlin in a bench spot for his handcuff upside. Over the next three weeks, Denver will take on the Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Kansas City Chiefs.
From RotoBaller
Across 13 games this season, New England Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins has recorded 35 receptions for 440 yards and two touchdowns on 48 targets. While New England's egalitarian passing attack has limited the production of all of its pass-catchers, Hollins has been the team's most consistent wide receiver from a playing time perspective. The 32-year-old has played at least 75% of the Patriots' offensive snaps in each of his last four games. Across his last six outings, Hollins has hauled in 24 catches for 321 yards on 34 targets. His numbers don't jump off the page, and his upside is limited, but Hollins is attached to an elite quarterback in Drake Maye and has demonstrated a safe playing time floor. In the deepest fantasy leagues, Hollins could be worth targeting on the waiver wire heading into his Week 15 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
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Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter has seen minimal usage as a rusher in recent weeks, as he has not recorded more than five carries in a game since Week 7. However, the 26-year-old has seen consistent work in the passing game, hauling in 15 receptions for 117 yards on 20 targets over the last four weeks. The Cardinals' backfield has been in a constant state of flux this season due to injuries. With James Conner (ankle), Trey Benson (knee), and Emari Demercado (ankle) sidelined, Carter and journeyman back Bam Knight have seen the majority of the work over the last month. Arizona could be getting Benson back in Week 15 against the Houston Texans, which may eliminate Carter's role. However, it appears the Cardinals are also considering shutting down Benson for the season due to his lingering knee injury. If Benson remains out, Carter could have some flex appeal for deep-league PPR fantasy managers thanks to his pass-catching ability.
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Across 13 games this season, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington has recorded 40 receptions for 274 yards and two touchdowns on 56 targets. The 24-year-old has also earned some work as a rusher, logging 78 rushing yards on 13 carries. Washington has served as Miami's primary WR2 alongside Jaylen Waddle since star wideout Tyreek Hill (knee) went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 4. Since that point, Washington has seen at least five targets in six out of nine games. However, he's struggled to be highly productive with his opportunities and has recorded more than 36 receiving yards in just two contests this season. Washington's lack of efficiency limits his upside. Still, Miami has continued to feed him touches, which could make Washington worth rostering in deep PPR fantasy heading into his Week 15 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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The Cleveland Browns have signed running back Trayveon Williams off the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad, according to ESPN's Kris Rhim. ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi notes that Williams spent training camp with Cleveland, so he and the team have familiarity with each other. The Browns were in the market for running back help after placing veteran back Jerome Ford (shoulder) on Injured Reserve with a shoulder injury. Williams appeared in just three games for the Chargers this season, recording three carries for negative one yard. The 28-year-old has played in 71 career games across seven NFL seasons, recording 280 scrimmage yards on 81 touches. In Cleveland, Williams figures to play a depth role behind Browns running backs Quinshon Judkins, Dylan Sampson, and Raheim Sanders.
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Across 13 games so far this season, Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson has recorded 438 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns on 101 touches. The 26-year-old has spent the majority of the season serving as the RB2 behind star Packers back Josh Jacobs. When Jacobs is active, Wilson has a very limited production ceiling. In the 12 games Jacobs has played in 2025, Wilson has recorded more than eight carries just twice. However, if Jacobs were to suffer an injury, Wilson would immediately become a starting-caliber fantasy running back. In the lone game that Jacobs missed this season in Week 12 against the Minnesota Vikings, Wilson recorded 125 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns on 30 touches. In fantasy leagues with 12 or more teams, Wilson could be worth stashing as a handcuff option down the stretch of the season. Green Bay will face the Denver Broncos, Chicago Bears, and Baltimore Ravens over the next three weeks.
From RotoBaller
Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Mike Evans (collarbone) was a limited participant in practice on Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Fantasy Spin: Evans hasn't played since Week 7 against the Detroit Lions but would be a big boost for the Bucs if he can play Thursday. If healthy, he could be worth a shot as a WR3 or flex option, but fantasy managers may want to give him a chance to catch his breath in this one.
From TheHuddle
Tampa Bay Buccaneers LB SirVocea Dennis (hip), TE Cade Otton (knee) and S Tykee Smith (neck, shoulder) did not practice on Tuesday, Dec. 9. WR Mike Evans (collarbone), S Christian Izien (neck), WR Jalen McMillan (neck), OLB Haason Reddick (ankle) and OT Tristan Wirfs (oblique) were limited participants. WR Chris Godwin Jr (fibula), RB Bucky Irving (shoulder), QB Baker Mayfield (left shoulder), CB Benjamin Morrison (hamstring), and S Rashad Wisdom (quad) practiced in full.
From TheHuddle
Atlanta Falcons WR Drake London (WR) did not practice on Tuesday, Dec. 9. WR KhaDarel Hodge (shoulder), TE Kyle Pitts (knee), OLB Jalon Walker (quad), CB A.J. Terrell (neck), DL Brandon Dorlus (groin), LB Chris Lindstrom (foot) and DL David Onyemata (foot) were limited participants Tuesday. LB Kaden Ellis was a full participant.
From TheHuddle
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers has a "very real chance" of starting versus the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15. The 44-year-old signed with the team's practice squad earlier this week after a successful workout with the organization on Monday. With Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the year, Rivers appears to have a legitimate chance at taking snaps this upcoming weekend. Rivers hasn't played in the NFL since the 2020 season with the Colts. He threw for 4,169 passing yards with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions during that season while leading Indy to the playoffs. Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard (knee) would be the next man up, but he suffered a Grade 1 PCL sprain in Week 14. With his availability up in the air, Rivers and Brett Rypien are the only healthy options on the Colts' roster. Rivers is probably the preferred choice given his experience in head coach Shane Steichen's offensive scheme. This is a strange situation, but the Colts are desperate for a QB with the injuries piling up under center. Rivers would be a desperation QB2 play in superflex leagues if he makes the start.
From RotoBaller