The NFL is into “Phase Three” of the off-season, which is the final stage of the off-season program before contact practices begin with training camp in late July. We’ve seen a steady stream of news since OTAs (organized team activities) started in May, and it always gets a little more interesting in June when veteran players are required to report for one mandatory minicamp unless they have an excused absence.
I went team by team to round up the most important fantasy headlines coming out of all 32 workouts. I’ll update this article through June 19, the final day of team activities in Phase Three. Check back often for regular updates!
ADP data used in this article is based on the last month of drafts with our partners over at Underdog Fantasy…Each news item will have a date at the end of it for when it was updated or added to the article.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
GM Brandon Beane described Dalton Kincaid’s disappointing 2024 as “really more of an injury thing and nothing more than that,” adding that Kincaid has come back this off-season with additional strength and bulk to his frame. Kincaid averaged a 64.9% route share and ranked as the TE15 (8.6 FPG) through the first nine weeks before spraining his PCL in Week 10 and missing the next three games. His route share dipped to 54.2%, and he averaged 5.4 FPG in his final six games (postseason included) after returning from the injury. Kincaid’s ADP (138.8, TE14) has fallen by a half dozen rounds since last season if you want to bet on a 2023 first-round pick. (Added June 16)
James Cook wasn’t in attendance at the start of voluntary OTAs on May 27 after skipping voluntary workouts in April, but he reported for the start of mandatory minicamp. He also said on June 10 that he plans to participate in training camp. He’s currently set to make $5.7 million in 2025 and is seeking a contract extension entering the final year of his rookie deal. He’s seeking an annual average salary of $15 million per year, which would tie him with Derrick Henry as the third-highest paid RB behind Saquon Barkley ($20.6M) and Christian McCaffrey ($19M) in AAV. Cook will have to lower his asking price after leading a three-man committee last season, which also involved Ray Davis and Ty Johnson. He ranked 38th in snap share (48%), 28th in carry share (45.2%), and 37th in route share (35.2%) among RBs last season. Cook is a top candidate for touchdown regression after scoring 4 rushing TDs in his first 33 games before exploding for 16 rushing TDs in 16 games last season. Cook’s ADP (42.8, RB14) has drifted a couple of spots since skipping OTAs. (Updated June 10)
Miami Dolphins
Jaylen Wright said he added six pounds of muscle and lost some body fat this off-season, and Mike McDaniel has noticed a different Wright entering his second season. McDaniel told reporters, “When we had exit meetings, I was talking to Jaylen Wright about being able to non-verbally communicate to me his hunger for an increased role. I see better than I hear, and four OTAs in, I can see him following through with that.” The Dolphins let Raheem Mostert leave for Las Vegas, and Jeff Wilson remains unsigned, which has elevated Wright to the #2 spot behind De’Von Achane if he can hold off Alexander Mattison and sixth-round pick Ollie Gordon. Wright mustered just 71 touches in 15 games as a rookie, but he could factor in behind Achane in early-down situations. Wright could be a valuable late-round handcuff (173.2, RB51) behind a smaller back. (Added June 5)
The Dolphins are shopping Jonnu Smith as he looks to rework a contract that has him set to make $4.8 million next season. Smith skipped voluntary OTAs and mandatory minicamp, but his preference is to stay in Miami under a reworked deal, which his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, reiterated to The Miami Herald. The Steelers were one of the teams that have expressed interest, and Adam Schefter reported on June 3 that Pittsburgh renewed conversations on a potential deal. Miami’s front office is dealing with multiple veteran contract situations, as they try to find Jalen Ramsey a new home this summer. If Jonnu were to stick in Miami, he’s a bargain at his ADP (101.4, TE7). His ADP will plummet if he lands in a Steelers offense that already has Pat Freiermuth. (Updated June 10)
Tyreek Hill wasn’t ready to participate in catching and blocking drills during OTAs, but he returned to catching passes at minicamp. Hill underwent surgery on his right wrist this off-season for an injury he initially suffered last August, and he failed to reach 1000+ yards for the first time since 2019. Hill told reporters he’s moved past his trade demands from the end of last season, and he’s “hoping that I can prove myself and prove to my teammates that I’m still one of them ones, man, who’s chasing 2K [receiving yards].” Hill’s ADP (27.7, WR15) has plummeted by two rounds since last summer, and he could go down as a value since few players carry the weekly upside he’s displayed for most of the previous eight seasons. (Updated June 10)
New England Patriots
- Stefon Diggs is away from the team at the start of OTAs as he rehabs from last year’s ACL surgery. He had the internet abuzz by appearing in a video with scantily-clad women while holding a pink substance on a boat over Memorial Day Weekend. HC Mike Vrabel said he wants his players to make great decisions on and off the field, and that he’s been in communication with Diggs. It’s a terrible look for New England’s big free-agent signee, but he’s unlikely to face any kind of suspension from the league or team. Ian Rapoport reported the Patriots have no plans to release Diggs after Scott Zolak of the Patriots Radio Network said Diggs’ release is “on the table.” Diggs reported for voluntary practices on June 2 to quell any rising issues between him and the team. He’s won as a route runner with lateral agility throughout his career, and drafting a 32-year-old receiver (75.9 ADP, WR42) coming back from an ACL injury in a new offense has fantasy disappointment written all over it. (Added June 3)
New York Jets
- ESPN’s Rich Cimini wondered if the Jets could be the next team to utilize the "tush push" play after signing Justin Fields. The Jets were among the 10 teams that voted against the proposed ban on the tush push. Fields ranks behind only Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen in push sneaks since 2021 (per ESPN research), converting 11-of-12 push sneaks into first downs. On the May 22 Best Bets Podcast, Trey Kamberling said he’ll be targeting Fields’ rushing touchdown props in futures betting markets. Fields has ranked among the top seven QBs in FP/DB in each of the last three seasons, which shows his elite fantasy upside when he’s in the starting lineup. (Added May 27)
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
Rashod Bateman and the Ravens agreed to terms on a three-year, $36.75 million extension through 2029, with $20 million guaranteed. He’s coming off career bests in targets (72), receiving yards (756), touchdowns (9), route share (75.5%), and FPG (10.3) in his fourth season. Bateman also ranked fourth in ASS (.195) among 112 WRs who ran 200+ routes last season. He’s likely to see some touchdown regression after scoring 3.1 more FPG than expected, but he’s a solid boom-or-bust WR5 because he owns a big role in one of the league’s best offenses. (Added June 5)
Derrick Henry and the Ravens agreed to terms on a two-year, $30 million contract extension, which includes $25 million guaranteed. Henry is the first RB over 30 years old to average $15 million per year. His first season in Baltimore went even better than expected, ranking as the RB4 (19.8 FPG). He finished tied for the league lead in rushing TDs (16) and behind only Saquon Barkley in rushing yards (1921). Henry hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down entering his age-31 season, leading the league in YACO (854) and ranking second in explosive yards (803). His lack of passing-game involvement limits Henry’s ceiling, but he’s a near lock to score double-digit TDs if you want to bet on him at his ADP (14.3, RB6). (Added May 20)
Cincinnati Bengals
- Coming Soon!
Cleveland Browns
- The Athletic’s Zac Jackson believes Joe Flacco is the early favorite to open the season as the starting QB, unless Kevin Stefanski and others in the organization favor Pickett. Cleveland seems likely to go with either Flacco or Pickett as the Week 1 starter before eventually giving rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders opportunities to play later in the season. FanDuel Sportsbook has Flacco as a +116 favorite (46.3%) to be the Week 1 starter, followed by Pickett (+200, 33.3%), Sanders (+430, 18.9%), and Gabriel (+870, 10.3%). I’m hoping that Flacco wins the job out of training camp to give receivers like Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku a better chance at fantasy relevance until they eventually turn over the offense to the rookie QBs later in the season. (Added June 2)
Pittsburgh Steelers
Aaron Rodgers took his sweet time to choose his next team, but he finally picked the Steelers for his 21st season. He inked a one-year, $13.65 million contract, which includes $10 million guaranteed and $5.85 million in incentives. His disastrous two-year run with the Jets ended when the franchise announced in mid-February that it parted ways with the four-time MVP. He played like a 40-year-old QB coming back from an Achilles injury in 2024. Rodgers completed 368/584 passes (63%) for 3897 yards (6.7 YPA), 28 TDs (4.8%), and 11 INTs (1.9%) in 17 starts. He added 34/94/1 rushing to finish as the QB19 with 15.9 FPG. Rodgers finished with career worsts in YPA (6.7), YPC (10.6), and passer rating (90.5), and his second-worst finishes in success rate (43.9%) and QBR (48.0). Rodgers isn’t the long-term solution the Steelers have been looking for, but he raises Pittsburgh’s ceiling if he can turn back the clock to his pre-2022 form. He’s a bit of a curious fit with downfield threat D.K. Metcalf after ranking 26th in deep throw rate (9.8%) among 39 QBs with 200+ attempts. He ranked 32nd in YPA (9.13) and 36th in completion percentage (42%) on passes of 10+ yards among 40 QBs with 50+ such attempts. Rodgers could become a more efficient downfield passer working with Metcalf in Arthur Smith’s offensive system, especially with another year removed from his Achilles injury. Even if he does improve, Rodgers will have to get close to his career 6.1% TD rate to be anything more than a low-end QB2. (Updated June 10)
The Dolphins are shopping Jonnu Smith as he looks to rework a contract that has him set to make $4.8 million next season. Smith skipped voluntary OTAs, but his preference is to stay in Miami under a reworked deal, which his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, reiterated to The Miami Herald. The Steelers were one of the teams that have expressed interest, despite already having a TE room that features Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and Connor Heyward — Donald Parham did tear his Achilles on June 2. Adam Schefter reported on June 3 that Pittsburgh renewed conversations on a potential deal. Still, it is exploring other avenues to add another weapon before the start of the season — Gabe Davis is scheduled to visit the team on June 5. WRs coach Zach Azzanni called Calvin Austin the #2 WR behind D.K. Metcalf, which is a sign they need to beef up their receiving corps. If Jonnu were to stick in Miami, he’s a bargain at his ADP (101.4, TE7). His ADP will plummet if he lands in a Steelers offense that already has Freiermuth. (Updated June 16)
AFC South
Houston Texans
Nick Chubb and the Texans agreed to terms on a one-year, $2.5 million contract, with another $2.5 million available in incentives. We listed Chubb as a “player to avoid” last off-season, and he inevitably struggled in his return from the catastrophic knee injury he suffered in 2023. He was one of the most efficient RBs of all time through his first six seasons, averaging 5.3 YPC and 84.6 rushing YPG with a 48.4% success rate. He came nowhere close to maintaining his historic pace after sitting out the first six games of the season, and he eventually ceded work to Jerome Ford before suffering a season-ending foot injury in Week 15. Chubb ranked 45th in YPC (3.27), 43rd in explosive run rate (2%), and last in YACO/ATT (1.96) among 46 RBs who logged 100+ carries. In his last full season in 2022, Chubb ranked fifth in YPC (5.05), third in explosive run rate (7.6%), and third in YACO/ATT (3.52) among 42 RBs who logged 100+ carries. Chubb’s best days are behind him as he enters his 30s. The Texans are hoping that he can regain some of his old form with another year removed from his 2023 knee injury. There’s a chance Chubb is mostly a non-factor behind Joe Mixon, but he could also steal some early-down carries and goal-line chances. Chubb is unlikely to be featured in the passing game with Woody Marks in the mix, and he’s going to need a Mixon injury to have any chance at fantasy-relevance. (Added June 10)
Joe Mixon is sitting out OTAs and has been spotted in a walking boot at practices. Aaron Wilson wrote that Mixon suffered a “minor” injury while working out, and the issue isn’t considered a long-term issue. Mixon sustained an ankle injury on a hip-drop tackle early last season, and he also played through an ankle injury in the postseason. Mixon’s injury is worth monitoring later this summer if it’s still causing him to miss practice in training camp. His bigger issue for his fantasy outlook is Nick Chubb, whom the Texans signed to a one-year, $2.5 million deal on June 10. Mixon ranked fourth in carry share (66.9%) and 15th in snap share (63%) to finish as the RB10 (17.2) in his first season away from the Bengals. There’s a chance Chubb is mostly a non-factor, but he could also steal some early-down carries and goal-line chances. Houston also drafted Woody Marks in the fourth round and recently worked out JaMycal Hasty, so the Texans are signaling they want to reduce Mixon’s workload. We’ve knocked him down to the RB23 in our updated best ball rankings. (Updated June 12)
C.J. Stroud didn’t throw any passes during OTAs during open sessions to the media because of a tight muscle in his throwing shoulder (per Aaron Wilson). HC DeMeco Ryans said, “There’s no concerns with C.J. It’s just general soreness. We are taking extra precaution with him. He’ll be good to go.” Stroud’s shoulder was feeling better on June 10 as he was seen throwing during minicamp. Stroud’s issue is one to remember in case he has future problems with his shoulder, but he appears to be fine heading into training camp. (Updated June 10)
Indianapolis Colts
- Shane Steichen said May 28 that Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones will have an “open competition” for the starting job, and his two quarterbacks would split reps with the first- and second-team offenses during their nine off-season practices. However, Steichen announced on June 5 that Richardson suffered an AC joint injury in his throwing shoulder, which will keep him out of minicamp. It’s the same AC joint he had surgery on during the 2023 season, and Ian Rapoport reported that he should be healthy by training camp. Steichen said they wouldn’t put a timetable on his potential return in training camp. Richardson went from a -245 favorite (71% implied odds) to be the Week 1 starter in late May to a +126 underdog (44.3%) after news of his injury. Jones now sits at -166 (62.4%) after sitting at +186 (35%) in late May. Richardson has more fantasy juice, but he murdered Indy’s passing attack last season by ranking last in completion percentage (47.7%), CPOE (-6.1%), and off-target throw rate (26.5%). The two will compete for the starting gig in training camp if Richardson’s throwing arm is healthy enough to practice by then. (Updated June 14)
Jacksonville Jaguars
Dyami Brown has been turning heads throughout OTAs, and John Oehser wrote it’s “increasingly apparent that he figures to play a huge role in the offense.” The Jaguars handed Brown a one-year deal with $9.5 million guaranteed, which is another sign that he has a leg up on Parker Washington to be the #3 WR behind Brian Thomas and Travis Hunter. Brown finished behind only Xavier Worthy in playoff receiving yards with 229, which was more yards than Brown posted in each of his first three seasons. Brown’s entire body of work from his rookie contract is underwhelming as a 2021 third-round pick, but he showed enough promise late last season to make him an intriguing late-round pick (195.1 ADP, WR79). (Added June 6)
HC Liam Coen shot down trade rumors involving Travis Etienne, calling them “absolutely inaccurate.” The Jaguars have no incentive to drag a player still on their roster, and I bet that they’d trade Etienne if offered the right compensation, which seems unlikely. Etienne’s time as the lead back could be over after Tank Bigsby outplayed him last season, and the new regime targeted Bhaysul Tuten early in the fourth round to apply even more pressure. Jacksonville could be headed toward a messy three-man backfield early in the season, but drafters have correctly started to select Tuten (117.2 ADP, RB35) ahead of Etienne (119.7, RB36). His best hope for weekly fantasy relevance is for a team like the Cowboys to acquire him before the start of the season. (Added June 3)
Tennessee Titans
- Brian Callahan is talking about using a split backfield between Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears for the second straight off-season. He suggested a bigger back, like Julius Chestnut or Kalel Mullings, who could even see time. Callahan said, “In a perfect world, it’s a healthier division of labor. I think [Pollard] ended up carrying the ball a lot. He was our most productive running back. Tyjae had some injuries early, too, so [Pollard] had to play a lot early. Tyjae sort of came on as the year went on further. I like both of those players a lot. I think we can do a better job of managing that load so they both play a little more evenly and allow us to maybe have a spot for a third back between Julius and Kalel — a heavier style back and runner.” Pollard easily paced Spears in snap share (69%>42%), carry share (62%>29%), and route share (47%>36%) in one of the NFL’s worst offenses last season. Pollard (78.3, RB25) and Spears (137.7, RB40) are appropriately priced heading into the summer, but adding a third back in short-yardage situations would cap this backfield’s already limited upside. (Added May 20)
AFC West
Denver Broncos
J.K. Dobbins and the Broncos agreed to terms on a one-year, $2.75 million contract, which is worth up to $5.25 million in incentives. His contract suggests he should jump ahead of Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime in Denver’s backfield, and he’ll compete with second-round pick R.J. Harvey to lead the Broncos in carries. He could also replace Javonte Williams as the primary protector in passing situations, at least early in the season. Dobbins finished second in Comeback Player of the Year voting in his first season playing double-digit games since his rookie year in 2020. Dobbins posted 195/905/9 rushing (4.6 YPC) and 32/153 receiving (4.8 YPR) on 38 targets (9.2% share) to finish as the RB18 with 14.8 FPG. He ranked 44th in stuff rate (53.8%) but 10th in yards off of explosive runs (296) among 46 RBs who logged 100+ carries. Dobbins owns a career 5.2 YPC average and a 50.3% success rate on only 429 carries in five seasons. His ADP (178.9, RB53) will rise by multiple rounds, and he’s not the worst player to back as a high-end RB4 just in case Harvey isn’t ready to be a lead back. (Updated June 11)
The Athletic’s Nick Kosmider wrote that second-round pick R.J. Harvey has been given “ample work in the passing game” in addition to his opportunities as a lead ball-carrier. Kosmider believes that the early returns have been promising, but he hasn’t been asked to stop a blitzing linebacker in pads just yet. He has upside if Payton trusts him in the passing game, as Broncos RBs finished fourth in targets in 2024 with 117 and first in 2023 with 153. All eyes were on who the Broncos would select at running back because it was one of the best landing spots for a fantasy back. Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin were the only players standing between Harvey and an every-down role in a Sean Payton offense. That changed on June 10 when the Broncos signed J.K. Dobbins to a one-year, $2.75 million deal, which is worth up to $5.25 million in incentives. Harvey will compete with Dobbins for early-down work, and Dobbins could also replace Javonte Williams as the primary protector in passing situations, at least early in the season. Dobbins' presence will kill Harvey’s momentum and drop his ADP (55.1, RB17) by at least a round or two, but he can be a high-end RB3 if he leads a three-man committee. (Updated June 10)
Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce reportedly arrived at minicamp 25 pounds lighter than the weight he played at last season. Kelce clarified that he is at a lower weight than he played last season, but he didn’t lose 25 pounds. He did quite a bit of traveling last off-season, following his superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift on tour, but he appears to be locked in for what could be his 13th and final season at 36 years old. He’s coming off a disappointing TE7 finish (12.3 FPG) because of 11-year lows in receiving yards (823) and TDs (3). Kelce’s bad luck — he was the TE4 in expected FPG (14.0) — and his slimmed-down figure could be signs that a bounce-back campaign could be in the cards. His biggest fantasy concern is the return of Rashee Rice in the middle of the field, and the continued rise of Xavier Worthy entering his second season. Kelce’s best days are behind him, but he’s still a value at his current ADP (98.3, TE6) if he has a little better luck in the touchdown department. (Added June 18)
Isiah Pacheco said he’s added muscle this off-season to get back to his NFL Combine weight of 216 pounds — he ran a 4.37-second 40-yard dash at that size. Pacheco said he shed too much weight during his rehab from a fractured fibula, and he failed to recapture his pre-injury form. Pacheco averaged 4.36 YPC and 2.60 YACO/ATT with an explosive run rate of 4.5% in 18 games (postseason included) during the 2023 season. He averaged just 3.61 YPC and 1.75 YACO/ATT with an explosive run rate of 1.0% in 10 games (postseason included) last season. Pacheco has some runway to regain his hold of this backfield after the Chiefs added just Elijah Mitchell and Brashard Smith. Pacheco is looking to follow in Tony Pollard’s path by showing improvement with more time removed from his tightrope surgery. He’s being drafted (86.6 ADP, RB28) nearly 50 picks later than he was being selected last summer. (Added June 2)
Patrick Mahomes said Rashee Rice looks like the Rice he last saw before his receiver tore his LCL in his right knee in Week 4 last season. He sat out a May 29 practice for an illness, but Mahomes said Rice has otherwise had no limitations. HC Andy Reid previously said in April that Rice was on track to be ready for training camp, and it appears that timeline hasn’t changed with Rice fully participating in a June 4 practice. Rice is one of the bigger wild cards for fantasy because of his injury recovery and a potential suspension for a high-speed car crash last year. He’s facing multiple lawsuits, but eight criminal charges have yet to be presented to a Dallas County grand jury, which will decide if the criminal case will move forward. Rice surged at the end of his rookie season and averaged 21.6 FPG in his three healthy games last season. Don’t be afraid to swing for the fences with Rice in the third round (28.6 ADP, WR17). (Updated June 4)
Las Vegas Raiders
- Fourth-round pick Dont’e Thornton spent a “good amount of time” with the first-team offense during off-season workouts (per ESPN’s Ryan McFadden). Las Vegas has used Thornton and Tre Tucker on the outside with Jakobi Meyers in the slot in 11 personnel. WRs coach Chris Beatty said of Thornton, “had a couple big plays every day.” Meanwhile, second-round pick Jack Bech has seen most of his reps with the second-team offense. Thornton may be ahead of Bech heading into training camp, but Thornton is being selected (213.5, WR91) nearly 85 picks later than Bech (130, WR61). (Updated June 18)
Los Angeles Chargers
Rookie Oronde Gadsden turned heads during off-season workouts, and TE coach Andy Bischoff added to the chorus when he compared Gadsden to Darren Waller. Bischoff said, “I know it’s a huge, huge forecast, but I was fortunate to coach Darren Waller, and Darren Waller was a receiver in college. We turned him into a tight end. He’s got some of those traits. It's way early. Way early, but he’s twitchy. He separates, he does some really good things in the pass game.” Gadsden projects to play as the move TE in a role previously occupied by Stone Smartt. He’s likely to flash a few times as a rookie, but he’s going to struggle to find the field enough as the F tight end behind Tyler Conklin and Will Dissly. He’s off the fantasy radar for now, but he’s a player to monitor if the drumbeat continues to build in training camp. (Added June 17)
Ladd McConkey told Daniel Popper of The Athletic that his top priority this off-season was getting his body healthy after he battled hip, shoulder, and knee injuries as a rookie. He’s working on falling forward to avoid big hits and to preserve his body in the middle of the field. He watched tape of Julian Edelman and Tyler Lockett to learn how to dive to avoid contact while picking up extra yards. McConkey is coming off an outstanding rookie season, asserting himself as the alpha receiver for Justin Herbert by midseason. He ended his campaign with 52+ receiving yards in 11 straight games, including 94+ yards six times in that span. McConkey ranked 12th in A.S.S. (.150) among 180 receivers who ran 200+ routes last season. He ranked 27th in target share (22.9%), which could improve in his second season, as his toughest competition for targets could come from Quentin Johnston and second-round pick Tre Harris. McConkey is a strong value at his current ADP (18.2, WR11), and I’ve bet his season-long receiving yards prop at ESPNBet. (Added June 4)
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys
- Javonte Williams told Cowboys beat writer Clarence Hill that he’s just now feeling completely like himself mentally and physically. I’m skeptical that he’s just now getting back to full strength, 32 months after his initial ACL and LCL injury in October 2022. There’s no denying he hasn’t been the same player since his injury, averaging 4.4 YPC in his first 21 contests before dipping to 3.6 YPC in his last 33 games. Williams ranked 42nd in YPC (3.69), 40th in explosive run rate (2.9%), and 43rd in YACO/ATT (2.03) among 46 RBs who logged 100+ carries last season. He at least landed in a Cowboys backfield where he’s currently the favorite to lead the team in carries, but Miles Sanders was rotating in with the first team during minicamp. I’m not walking away with Williams at his current ADP (120.4, RB37), and Sanders is a better pick as a final-round pick (209.1, RB63). (Updated June 12)
New York Giants
The Giants haven’t had any sort of quarterback competition in spring practices. Russell Wilson took every first-team rep in OTA and minicamp practices open to the media, while first-round pick Jaxson Dart took the majority of second-team reps, followed by Jameis Winston. Brian Daboll previously said Wilson would open spring workouts as the team’s starting QB. Wilson’s leash as the starter is going to be extremely short since the futures of Daboll and GM Joe Schoen could be tied to Dart’s progress as a rookie. Dart is a low-end QB2 with some upside once he enters the starting lineup because of his rushing potential. Dart should remain a late-round option in best ball (211.7 ADP, QB32) and a waiver wire pickup in redraft leagues. (Added June 18)
Brian Daboll told reporters that Malik Nabers won’t do much work in off-season workouts. Nabers is resting a toe injury that has lingered since his time at LSU, and he didn’t have surgery for the injury. Daboll said on June 12 that Nabers was “progressing” through his toe injury by doing some walk-through reps. Daboll said on June 18 that he has no concerns about Nabers missing the start of training camp. Nabers missed out on some reps with Russell Wilson and Jaxson Dart, and it’s an issue to monitor in training camp if it continues to limit his availability. The Giants own one of the NFL's lowest win totals, which has me slightly worried that he could be shut down late in the season if the Giants fall out of contention. (Updated June 18)
Philadelphia Eagles
The Green Bay Packers proposed ban of the Tush Push did not receive the 24 votes needed to pass, which means the play will live for at least another season. We won’t have to make any adjustments to our season player projections since a ban would’ve likely resulted in a few carries close to the goal-line flipping from Jalen Hurts to Saquon Barkley. Hurts may have seen his ADP (51.2, QB4) drop by a round if the Tush Push play was banned. He’s scored double-digit rushing TDs in each of his four seasons as a starter, including 13+ TDs in each of the last three seasons. (Added May 21)
The Eagles notably let Kenneth Gainwell walk to the Steelers in free agency on a one-year, $1.8 million deal, which included just $620,000 guaranteed. Eagles beat reporter Jimmy Kempski wrote that the Eagles were encouraged enough by Will Shipley’s performances in practice and games as a rookie to promote him into Gainwell’s former role in the two-minute offense. Shipley is the favorite to beat out A.J. Dillon for the handcuff role behind Saquon Barkley, which makes him a value at his ADP (187.4, RB53) in one of the league’s best offenses. (Added May 21)
Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels showed up to off-season workouts noticeably bulked up, heading into his second summer with the Commanders. OC Kliff Kingsbury said the team didn’t give Daniels a mandate to bulk up this off-season, but Daniels made it one of his goals back in February. We touted Daniels as a league-winning pick last summer, and our only concern was his durability because of his thin frame. The extra bulk could help him hold up a little easier in 2025 after a 20-game season, but I’m more impressed by Daniels’ dedication to improve after his profile was significantly raised as a rookie. We have Daniels projected as our top fantasy QB, and he’s once again a player to target in drafts (42.5 ADP, QB3). (Added May 28)
Terry McLaurin sat out mandatory minicamp as he’s been discussing a contract extension with the Commanders. GM Adam Peters said in late March that they hope “to make Terry a Commander for a long time.” The Athletic’s Ben Standig believes McLaurin’s eventual annual salary should fall somewhere between Tee Higgins ($28.75 million) and D.K. Metcalf ($33 million). Jordan Schultz reported on June 5 that McLaurin is “frustrated” with the lack of progress on a long-term deal. McLaurin finished as the WR15 (15.8 FPG) in Jayden Daniels’ first season, but his ADP is too rich (28.1, WR16) in early best-ball drafts. (Updated June 10)
NFC North
Chicago Bears
Bears beat reporter Ben Devine wrote that the Bears have “tabled” any talks of adding another running back after seeing seventh-round pick Kyle Monangai in off-season workouts. Devine added that Monangai has a real chance to be the #2 RB and see meaningful carries as a rookie. The Bears were among the favorites to select a running back early in the draft, but they were sniped multiple times before selecting Monangai in the final round. D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson were among the biggest winners at the position after the draft, and they’ll need to hold off the 5’8”, 211-pound back from Rutgers. Monangai is a final-round dart throw (215.2 ADP, RB72) for now, but he’s a player to monitor in training camp in case he’s making some waves with a new coaching staff. (Added June 17)
D.J. Moore told reporters he’s unsure if he’s going to touch the ball as much as he has in recent years. Moore easily led the league with 41 designed targets, 15 more than the next closest player, Khalil Shakir. That’s unlikely to continue with Ben Johnson taking over the offense, especially after the Bears drafted Colston Loveland and Luther Burden. Loveland (shoulder) and Burden (soft tissue) did miss out on reps at mandatory minicamp, and Johnson said it could put them slightly behind heading into training camp. Johnson is also tinkering with aligning his receivers in different spots in spring practices, including lining Moore up in the slot — 28.7% of his routes came from the slot last season. I’m expecting Moore to be a slight disappointment this season, and I recently bet Moore to finish under his receiving yards prop. (Updated June 14)
Detroit Lions
Three-time All-Pro center Frank Ragnow announced his retirement from football. He wrote on his Instagram, “I’ve tried to convince myself that I’m feeling good but I’m not and it’s time to prioritize my health and my families future. I have given this team everything I have and I thought I had more to give, but the reality is I simply don’t.” PFF graded Ragnow as the third-best center overall and the third-best run-blocking center last season. Graham Glasgow is most likely to slide from right guard to center, but second-round pick Tate Ratledge has been cross-training at center and guard in early practices. Ragnow’s retirement will test Detroit’s offensive line depth after the group ranked fourth in ADJ YB/ATT (2.60) and fourth in pressure rate over expectation (3.84%) last season. (Added June 2)
Jameson Williams is coming off his first 1000-yard season in 2024, and he’s looking to build on that success with a focused off-season heading into his age-24 season. The Athletic’s Colton Pouncey wrote that “his coaches have noticed a change in demeanor and a greater attention to detail” as he enters his fourth season. OC John Morton went as far as to say that Williams is going to have a “breakout year.” HC Dan Campbell added to the chorus, noting that Williams has added some strength and that the “sky’s the limit” for his fourth-year WR. It’s also notable that Amon-Ra St. Brown underwent a cleanup surgery on his knee that will keep him out until training camp. Williams finished as the WR26 (14.1) despite having the lowest target share (17.6%) among the top 38 WRs. It isn’t cheap to draft Williams (45.1 ADP, WR26), but he has massive upside if he gets a bump in targets in his second full season. (Updated June 6)
Green Bay Packers
- MarShawn Lloyd started voluntary OTAs with the rehab group after appearing in just one game during his rookie campaign because of hamstring and ankle injuries before appendicitis ended his year. The Packers decided to take a conservative approach with Lloyd early in the spring, but he was a full participant during mandatory minicamp. Lloyd needs as many reps as possible in training camp after last year’s lost campaign, as he battles Emmanuel Wilson to be Josh Jacobs’ top backup. This off-season, Lloyd went to the same facility that helped Christian Watson with his hamstring issues, and Lloyd said he learned the proper workouts to balance strength in his legs. He said on June 12 that he’s been back to 100% health for “some time now” when asked how long he’s been healthy. He’s still worth consideration as a late-round dart (190.6, RB55) for the time being, since he’s the superior talent to Wilson. (Updated June 19)
Minnesota Vikings
Jordan Addison pleaded not guilty last December in connection with his 2024 DUI citation, and a jury trial date has been set for July 15 in the Superior Court of California. Addison is likely to face a mandatory three-game suspension if he’s found guilty, but he could avoid a suspension if a jury finds him not guilty. The two sides could also still work out a plea deal, which could lessen his suspension to fewer than three games. We’re finally nearing a resolution to the matter, and we could know if Addison will be suspended by the time season-long drafts come around in August. I’ve been drafting Addison at his early ADP (62.4, WR34), but the outcome of his trial will determine if his ADP rises a little if he’s found not guilty or if it drops if he’s suspended for 1-3 games. (Added June 17)
Josh Oliver and the Vikings agreed to terms on a three-year, $23.5 million contract extension, including $19.9 million guaranteed. The Vikings surprised the league when they handed Oliver a three-year, $21 million contract during the 2023 off-season. He’s mustered just 44/471/5 receiving in 32 games the last two seasons, and he’s coming off a career-high 56% snap share with T.J. Hockenson missing seven games. Oliver’s extension is another indication that the Vikings could lean into the run more in 2025 with J.J. McCarthy at quarterback. Kevin O’Connell’s offenses have ranked in the top six in pass rate over expectation in each of his first three seasons as head coach. (Added June 10)
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons
- Kyle Pitts and Kirk Cousins missed the start of voluntary OTAs. Cousins’ absence isn’t a major surprise since he’s waiting for his next playing opportunity after the Falcons committed to Michael Penix, and he reported to mandatory minicamp. Meanwhile, the initial speculation for Pitts’ absence was contract-related, but James Palmer clarified that Pitts was missing time for a foot injury. Raheem Morris said they’re just being “extremely cautious” with Pitts, and he’s participating in meetings. His absence isn’t a major deal, but he is missing out on some reps with his young quarterback. Other franchises are sensing some dissatisfaction from the Falcons and Pitts. Jordan Schultz reported multiple teams have reached out about Pitts’ availability, and they’ve been told it would take at least a Day 2 pick to generate interest. The Pitts’ bandwagon has emptied heading into 2025, with his ADP plummeting by about 80 picks (144.7, TE24). He’s just a TE2 lottery ticket, just in case he finally lives up to the hype in a contract year. (Updated June 10)
Carolina Panthers
- Tommy Tremble underwent back surgery in late May, and he’s expected to start training camp on the PUP list. HC Dave Canales said on June 3 that Tremble could return at some point in “preseason camp.” Tremble is coming off the most productive season in the final year of his rookie contract, but he came nowhere close to fantasy relevance, averaging 4.8 FPG. The Panthers re-signed Tremble to a two-year contract with $8 million guaranteed. Still, Tremble’s recovery could open up an opportunity for Ja’Tavion Sanders to grab a bigger role or to be the lead TE early in the season. The second-year TE averaged 4.1 targets per game in a seven-game stretch before suffering a neck injury against the Chiefs in Week 12, and he’s slimmed down to 245 pounds after playing at 255 pounds as a rookie. Sanders is a player to monitor later this summer in deeper formats if it looks like Tremble could miss regular-season action. (Updated June 4)
New Orleans Saints
The Saints hosted Cam Akers for a visit before signing him on June 13, which is an indication they’re not completely happy with their depth behind Alvin Kamara. Kendre Miller has earned just 80 carries since being selected in the third round in 2023, and sixth-round pick Devin Neal and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are also in the mix. Akers played the first five games of 2024 with the Texans before the Vikings acquired him and a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick for a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick. He ranked eighth in explosive run rate (6.7%) and sixth in YACO/ATT (2.75) but last in stuff rate (55.8%) among 46 RBs who logged 100+ carries. Akers played fairly well in his limited opportunities in his second return from an Achilles injury, and he’ll compete for the backup job in training camp. (Updated June 14)
Derek Carr surprisingly announced his retirement in early May, which left a huge void at the top of New Orleans’ depth chart heading into the season. Second-round pick Tyler Shough is immediately the favorite to be the QB1, and Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener are the only other options at quarterback. Kellen Moore is in no rush to add a veteran quarterback to his quarterback room at this point in the off-season, as he said, “We’ll give these guys a bunch of opportunities” before considering bringing in any outside help. Haener is expected to miss the rest of OTAs after suffering an oblique injury on May 21, so this is quickly becoming a two-man battle for the starting job. Shough won’t add much fantasy value as a runner, which makes him a QB3 option even as the favorite to be the Week 1 starter. New Orleans’ entire offense should be downgraded with Carr out of the mix and the 40th overall pick running the show. (Updated May 22)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Coming Soon!
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals
- Marvin Harrison Jr. has noticeably muscled up heading into his second season, but he wouldn’t disclose just how much weight he’s added since the end of last season. He said he hasn’t taken much time off since the end of last season, and the additional time to focus on his body, combined with a protein-heavy diet, has resulted in a bigger, stronger second-year WR. Harrison added that he’ll use OTAs and minicamp to figure out his ideal playing weight, but he thinks the added weight will help him after the catch in contested-catch situations. Harrison ranked 76th in YAC/REC (2.50) and 64th in contested-catch rate (37%) among 85 WRs who saw 50+ targets last season. MHJ is putting in the work heading into his second season, but he’s once again being overdrafted (25.9, WR14) for the second straight summer. (Added May 22)
Los Angeles Rams
Left tackle Alaric Jackson is dealing with blood clots, per Ian Rapoport. Jackson missed the final nine games of the 2022 season due to blood clots. The belief is that he’ll play in 2025, but there are still questions about his potential availability. Jackson signed a three-year, $57 million contract extension this off-season, and the Rams recently signed veteran D.J. Humphries for insurance behind Jackson. (Added June 14)
Kyren Williams told the Los Angeles Times that he’s feeling good about a potential contract extension as he heads into the final year of his rookie contract. He showed up to voluntary OTAs, and Sean McVay even said talks between the two sides have been “healthy,” and progress has been made. The Rams have more leverage to let him play out the final year of his contract by selecting Blake Corum and Jarquez Hunter in the last two drafts. Williams could go down as a value at his current ADP (33, RB12) if the Rams reward him with a new deal, which would be a sign that they are fully committed to him at the top of the depth chart. McVay has a long history of featuring his backs in bell-cow roles, and Williams finished with the highest snap share (86.4%) at the position last season. If an extension isn’t reached before the season, it could be a sign that Corum and Hunter could have bigger roles than McVay’s backs have seen in the past. (Update May 29)
San Francisco 49ers
Christian McCaffrey is back to full strength during OTA practices, and The Athletic’s Matt Barrows wrote that CMC looks like his 2023 self after appearing in just three games last season because of Achilles and knee injuries. HC Kyle Shanahan said “he’s as healthy as can be” and they must “protect him from himself” as he’s been going all out in his return to practice. CMC participated in every phase of OTAs and minicamps and was one of the few top players to take reps in team drills. McCaffrey’s ADP (8.9, RB4) has already risen above Ashton Jeanty since the end of May. (Updated June 12)
Ricky Pearsall worked with Brock Purdy in Florida and Arizona before organized off-season workouts. The duo is looking to make up for lost practice and playing reps after Pearsall missed much of training camp for a hamstring injury, before missing the first six games of the season after being shot in late August. Purdy spoke about being just off with Pearsall last January, but added that “it’ll get way better” once they work together for a “real off-season.” Pearsall, unfortunately, tweaked his hamstring and sat out mandatory minicamp. Kyle Shanahan said he was healthy enough to practice, but they decided to be careful with last year’s first-round pick. Pearsall is still a player to target with Deebo Samuel traded to Washington and Brandon Aiyuk potentially out for the first half of the season as he recovers from ACL/MCL surgery, especially if his ADP dips (73.4, WR41) after tweaking his hamstring. Shanahan indicated that Aiyuk would start training camp on the PUP list. (Updated June 11)
Brock Purdy and the 49ers agreed to terms on a five-year, $265 million contract, which included $181 million guaranteed. Purdy is tied with Jared Goff for the seventh-highest average annual value at $53 million. He finished as the QB10 (18.8 FPG) last season, despite his passing YPG (267.5>257.6) and passing TDs per game (1.94>1.33) falling from 2023 to 2024. He made up for his dip in passing production by padding his stats as a runner. He posted 66/323/5 rushing in 2024, including 44 scrambles for 300/2 rushing, after totaling 52/155/3 rushing in his first 21 starts in 2022-23. Purdy will need to keep scrambling in Year 4 to maintain his low-end QB1 production with Deebo Samuel no longer in the fold and Brandon Aiyuk (ACL) likely to miss half of the season. He’s a slight value at his ADP (108, QB12), especially if the 49ers play in more shootouts after losing some key defenders. (Added May 20)
Seattle Seahawks
- ESPN’s Brady Henderson wrote that Noah Fant is still a potential trade candidate later this summer if there’s a market for a tight end and if rookie Elijah Arroyo proves he’s ready to start immediately. HC Mike Macdonald and OC Klint Kubiak have both talked about Arroyo being used as an X receiver in D.K. Metcalf’s old role, so they’re excited about deploying the 50th overall pick in various ways. Fant is entering the final year of his contract, and it could be just a matter of time before Arroyo overtakes him if he isn’t traded this season. Kubiak should feature more two-TE sets after the Saints ranked seventh in 12 personnel rate (31.3%). Arroyo may not thrive until Fant is out of the picture, but he’s not the worst final-round best ball dart throw (213.4, TE32). (Added May 23)
