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Dynasty $125 - FFL: Preseason | NFL: Week 1

Bears DB Terell Smith carted off with knee injury

Sun Aug 17 10:50pm ET
Field Level Media

Chicago Bears cornerback Terell Smith was carted off the field with a non-contact knee injury in the second quarter of the team's preseason game against the visiting Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

With 1:32 left in the first half and Chicago leading 28-0, Smith was covering Buffalo wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson when he collapsed to the ground after attempting to cut.

Smith immediately grabbed his left knee as Wilkerson completed a 25-yard reception from Mike White. The third-year cornerback was carted off the field as the Bears quickly ruled him out for the remainder of the game, in which Smith totaled two tackles.

A fifth-round pick of the Bears out of Minnesota in 2023, Smith appeared in 26 games with six starts in his first two seasons. His lone interception came last year, and he has accumulated 68 tackles, 10 passes defended, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

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Player Notes
Caleb Williams Aug 17 11:00pm CT
Caleb Williams

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was solid in his pre-season debut against the Buffalo Bills, completing six of 10 passes for 107 yards and a touchdown. Williams played his first snaps under new head coach Ben Johnson. Despite being under scrutiny during this training camp, looked like a seasoned pro. Williams was electric in his first drive, leading a seven-play, 92-yard drive that was capped off by a 35-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus. Williams played two drives and was pulled for backup quarterback Tyson Bagent before the start of the second quarter. Fantasy managers have to be pleased with Williams' stellar performance on Sunday night as he looked sharp in command of the Bears' new system. Williams and the starters have one more chance to get preseason reps in against the Kansas City Chiefs next Friday.

From RotoBaller

Luther Burden III Aug 17 11:00pm CT
Luther Burden III

Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III hauled in all three targets, gaining 49 yards in Sunday's 38-0 preseason win over the Buffalo Bills. The rookie wide receiver caught his three passes from backup quarterback Tyson Bagent and took most of his snaps with the second-team offense. The second-round pick has performed well this preseason as both a receiver and a blocker, but has yet to garner significant playing time with the first-team offense. However, keeping Burden off the field might be difficult if he keeps stacking stellar performances like his one on Sunday. The next time we can see Burden in action is next Friday against the Kansas City Chiefs.

From RotoBaller

David Moore Aug 17 10:30pm CT
David Moore

Carolina Panthers wide receiver David Moore caught all three of his targets for 26 yards during Saturday's preseason contest against the Houston Texans. The veteran pass-catcher now has five receptions on nine targets through two games this summer. He was somewhat productive in a low-end depth role last season, but he's likely competing for a roster spot now that Carolina brought in external reinforcements during the offseason. Jimmy Horn Jr. and Hunter Renfrow are among the players with whom Moore is battling as the roster crunch approaches.

From RotoBaller

Jake Ferguson Aug 17 10:00pm CT
Jake Ferguson

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson (back) did not play during the team's preseason contest against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. The 26-year-old was sidelined near the start of the month, and although he returned to the practice field roughly one week ago, it appears that he wasn't healthy enough to play in Dallas' second preseason game. As a result, the Cowboys gave more passing opportunities to tight ends John Stephens Jr. and Princeton Fant. However, in reality, Devyn Spann-Ford and Luke Schoonmaker would be first in line to replace Ferguson if he's unable to suit up in Week 1. He's still an intriguing fringe top-12 fantasy tight end with Dak Prescott back under center this year. Even last year, while catching passes from both Prescott and Cooper Rush, Ferguson caught 59 passes for 494 yards. He did not catch a touchdown, finishing 2024 with double-digit fantasy points in just three of his 14 games. However, positive touchdown regression could vault him back up into the top-12 or top-15 range this year.

From RotoBaller

Kyle Monangai Aug 17 9:20pm CT
Kyle Monangai

Chicago Bears running back Kyle Monangai (undisclosed) did not play in the team's second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. Brad Briggs of the Chicago Tribune reported that Monangai was not in uniform for the contest. Other members of the Chicago media confirmed that the rookie running back was in sweatpants prior to the game. If Monangai were a veteran starter, this would likely mean that he was simply being held out of action to preserve his health ahead of the regular season. However, given that he's a seventh-round rookie near the middle or bottom of the depth chart, it's possible that he could be dealing with some sort of injury. The Rutgers product has generated plenty of buzz this offseason, with some speculation that he could push for the backup role or eventually even split the backfield with D'Andre Swift. His ascension to an impactful role will have to wait until he's healthy enough to play, though. For now, Swift will lead the backfield while Roschon Johnson backs him up. Brittain Brown also made a case for a roster spot by totaling nine carries, 43 rushing yards, and one touchdown during the first half of Sunday's contest.

From RotoBaller

DJ Giddens Aug 17 8:34pm CT
DJ Giddens

Dynasty | Colts rookie running back DJ Giddens led the team with 28 rushing yards in their second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Giddens is a hot sleeper in dynasty circles but he's battling the likes of Tyler Goodson and Khalil Herbert for the right to back up Jonathan Taylor. Neither Goodson or Herbert likely have the ultimate upside of Giddens, so this is clearly a story to keep watching. Should Giddens earn the right to be the RB2 for the Colts, he'd be one injury away from real relevance in dynasty leagues.

Dillon Gabriel Aug 17 8:34pm CT
Dillon Gabriel

Dynasty | Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel completed 13-of-18 passes for 143 yards with no touchdowns, one interception and a lost fumble in Cleveland's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Gabriel was making his preseason debut and is clearly in a fight to hold off Shedeur Sanders on the depth chart. His performance was really up and down on the night and the interception was of the "pick six" variety. While he did make some good plays, Gabriel certainly didn't do anything to secure a spot on the depth chart over Sanders. In the end, the Browns have four quarterbacks and are going to need to make some moves soon. It's likely Joe Flacco is the starter but any of Kenny Pickett, Sanders, or Gabriel could end up on the trade block for a quarterback-needy team.

Woody Marks Aug 17 8:33pm CT
Woody Marks

Dynasty | Texans rookie running back Woody Marks had 40 rushing yards in Houston's second preseason contest. Dynasty Analysis: Marks is seemingly battling veteran Nick Chubb to be the backup to a currently banged up Joe Mixon. With Mixon far from a guarantee to be ready for opening day, this is a competition that matters. The former USC Trojan has been solid but not exactly spectacular in camp, so this was a nice step forward. He remains a solid dynasty rookie draft pick as a capable runner who is on the depth chart with veteran runners on the back-end of their careers.

Nick Chubb Aug 17 8:33pm CT
Nick Chubb

Dynasty | Texans running back Nick Chubb had 25 rushing yards on five carries in Houston's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Reports on Chubb's explosiveness in camp have been pretty underwhelming, so this was a welcome sight. While seemingly no longer the runner he once was, Chubb has an opportunity to carve out a meaningful role in Houston, especially if Joe Mixon continues to struggle in his attempt to return from injury. Should Mixon miss time, it seems Chubb would likely split time with rookie Woody Marks. Chubb's dynasty arrow is clearly pointing down, but it was good to see some signs of life this week as he attempts to return from another serious injury.

Ollie Gordon II Aug 17 8:33pm CT
Ollie Gordon II

Dynasty | Dolphins rookie running back Ollie Gordon had 50 rushing yards in Miami's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Gordon caught a break when Alexander Mattison was lost for the season, making his chance of securing a roster spot a lot higher. He seems to be third on the depth chart behind De'Von Achane and Jaylen Wright but likely ahead of Mike Boone at the moment. Once a highly sought after devy prospect and dynasty target, Gordon had a terrible season at Oklahoma State, dropping his dynasty value like a rock. He's strung together some solid performances, so he needs to stay on dynasty watch lists for the moment.

Emeka Egbuka Aug 17 8:32pm CT
Emeka Egbuka

Dynasty | Bucs wide recevier Emeka Egbuka had one catch for five yards and a touchdown in Tampa Bay's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Egbuka had a quick night and simply continues to make plays. While some were ultimately disappointed in his landing spot, it's proven to be no problem for Egbuka this off-season. He's poised to have an early season role for Tampa Bay and while he may not really break out until Chris Godwin or Mike Evans are done with the Bucs, he remains a great mid-first round rookie pick as a rookie who seemingly has an unbelievably high floor.

Jaxson Dart Aug 17 8:32pm CT
Jaxson Dart

Dynasty | Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart completed 14-of-16 passes for 137 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in New York's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: The Giants have gone on record saying Russell Wilson is going to be their starter in week one. However, two things seem very evident at this point. First, Dart has passed Jameis Winston to be the QB2. Second, Dart has made the leash for Wilson very short. With this latest performance, Dart has been nothing but impressive for the Giants all off-season and clearly looks like he's the quarterback of the future with that future coming a little sooner than most may have expected. His rookie ADP is on the rise a touch as he continues to progress.

Tre Harris Aug 17 8:32pm CT
Tre Harris

Dynasty | Chargers rookie wide receiver Tre Harris had six catches for 85 yards in Los Angeles' second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Harris had a healthy eight targets in this one and showed why the Chargers selected him in round two of the NFL Draft this year. He'll be battling for targets this season with players like Quentin Johnston and Keenan Allen behind target hog Ladd McConkey. Ultimately, Harris may start a little slowly but he remains a solid second round rookie pick and has some serious upside.

KeAndre Lambert-Smith Aug 17 8:32pm CT
KeAndre Lambert-Smith

Dynasty | Chargers rookie wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith had two catches for 66 yards in Los Angeles' second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: "KLS" is quickly making his case for a roster spot and he was impressive again Saturday night. One of his deep catches came with the first unit after Quentin Johnston was knocked out of the game with a concussion. With Mike Williams suddenly retiring, he may have an inside track at cracking this roster. While still a project player, Lambert-Smith has been turning heads all Summer and should be squarely on dynasty watch lists.

Elic Ayomanor Aug 17 8:31pm CT
Elic Ayomanor

Dynasty | Titans rookie wide receiver Elic Ayomanor had two catches for 47 yards in Tennessee's second preseason contest. Dynasty Analysis: Ayomanor has had a quiet camp for the most part, but he played well in this one. Cam Ward showed clear favortism towards Ayomanor early, a good sign for some possible early season success. While not a truly elite-level rookie prospect, Ayomanor looks the part of a solid mid-round rookie pick with some upside.

Jalen Milroe Aug 17 8:31pm CT
Jalen Milroe

Dynasty | Seahawks rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe completed 3-of-5 passes for 46 yards and added 18 rushing yards in Seattle's second preseason game. Dynasty Analysis: Milroe played well behind Drew Lock (129 passing yards and two touchdowns) and while he's shown some real flashes in games, it seems Seattle has no desire to have him play much this season. Lock has likely played well enough to be the QB2 behind sure-fire starter Sam Darnold, but it remains to be seen if Seattle would really turn to him for more than a game or two. Regardless, Milroe looks like a great dynasty stash but just don't expect much from him in 2025 unless something really unforeseen happens in the Emerald City.

Zach Sieler Aug 17 6:13pm CT
Zach Sieler

Miami Dolphins DL Zach Sieler (undisclosed) is dealing with an unspecified injury, and he did not play in the preseason game against the Detroit Lions on Saturday, Aug. 16. Head coach Mike McDaniel said Sunday, Aug. 17, that Sieler would be assessed back in South Florida. However, he seemed optimistic Sieler would be ready for Week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts.

From TheHuddle

Brian Robinson Jr. Aug 17 6:00pm CT
Brian Robinson Jr.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Washington Commanders are actively "shopping" running back Brian Robinson Jr. He is entering the final year of his contract after spending his first three seasons with the Commanders. The 26-year-old has played well during his time in Washington, amassing 2,329 yards off 570 carries in 41 regular-season contests. He also caught 65 passes and totaled 20 touchdowns in that span. It's unknown how serious the team will be about a potential deal. It's also not known how many clubs around the National Football League will be interested in his services. However, Robinson's fantasy ceiling may be at its highest in Washington, where he currently sits atop the depth chart. If he ends up getting traded, Austin Ekeler should see a bump in attention from fantasy managers. That would also apply to rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who could have a clearer path to more touches moving ahead.

From RotoBaller

Russell Wilson Aug 17 5:33pm CT
Russell Wilson

New York Giants QB Russell Wilson remains the team's starter heading into Week 1 on the road against the Washington Commanders despite the strong preseason play of rookie QB Jaxson Dart. 'Russ is our starter, and we're going to keep developing Jaxson,' head coach Brian Daboll said Sunday, Aug. 17.

Fantasy Spin: Wilson is considered a low-end QB2 in most fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams to start the season. New York has a super difficult schedule, one of the worst in the NFL, and if the team falls out of contention, we could see Wilson benched, and Dart inserted. For now, the G-Men plan to roll with Wilson, but if you plan on using him, plan to have alternates at the ready.

From TheHuddle

Spencer Rattler Aug 17 5:10pm CT
Spencer Rattler

The Saints' quarterback battle is still wide open, and Spencer Rattler is doing everything he can to convince the organization that he should be the Week 1 starter. Rattler went 18-of-24 for 199 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while adding three carries for 19 yards in Sunday's 17-17 tie against the Jaguars. He led an impressive 9-play, 82-yard drive with 2:39 remaining, highlighted by completions of 16 and 26 yards to second-year UDFA Mason Tipton, and capped it off with a 20-yard touchdown pass to Dante Pettis. He then ran in the two-point conversion himself to tie the game. Rattler put together multiple strong drives, including a 45-yard connection with Tipton to open the third quarter that set up a Saints field goal. However, he still showed room for improvement, notably throwing a red-zone interception with 4:42 left in the fourth quarter. The battle for the Week 1 starting job remains wide open, but Rattler is mainly an option in superflex leagues if he becomes the starter.

From RotoBaller