For those who still have a horse in the race when it comes to fantasy football, congratulations! Unfortunately for you, the squad that you rode to get you this far may be a far cry from its former self owing to injuries, COVID and more. Here are the latest status updates from around the league:
Cam Akers: Managers were shocked to learn that Akers was designated to return by the Rams earlier this week. In re-draft leagues this likely caused remaining managers to rush to the waiver wire to try to put in a claim. But before you get too excited, temper expectations that Akers will contribute in any way for the fantasy playoffs. Despite being activated to the 53 man roster by the Rams, Akers still isn’t ready to suit up. The move is merely procedural as he needs 3 games to count towards his pension. A nice gesture by the Rams, but ultimately a formality. While there’s an outside chance he contributes for the Rams if they go on a deep playoff run, you can essentially rule him out for 2021.
Travis Kelce: Fantasy Football’s TE1 is out this weekend due to COVID protocols. There was an outside chance he was going to suit up, however reports this morning indicate that Kelce failed to clear the final hurdles in time. There’s no fantasy viability in any of KC’s other TE’s so you’re best bet is to hit the waiver wire today.
Tyreek Hill: In better news for Chiefs fans, Tyreek Hill WAS able to clear protocols ahead of their Sunday tilt with the Steelers. With Kelce sidelined, Hill becomes the clear cut favourite target for Mahomes this afternoon.
Joe Mixon: After hobbling off the field last week against the Broncos with an ankle injury, Mixon was listed without an injury designation on the Bengals final report. While he’s now gone 3 weeks in a row without posting more than 11pts, his 3 games prior to that he had 2+ TD games, and he’s looking at a massive workload against a depleted Baltimore defense.
Damian Harris: Rapoport is reporting that Harris is “good to go” for this weekend’s showdown with the Bills. With Stevenson sidelined due to COVID, expect Harris to handle a full workload in the Pats backfield. Harris did have 10 touches for 111yds and a TD against Buffalo just 3 weeks ago.
Adam Thielen: A welcome bit of news for fantasy managers as Thielen is on track to suit up this weekend against the Rams. After missing the last two weeks with a high ankle sprain, the Vikings WR managed to get in a series of limited practices this week and figures to have a positive game script to see lots of targets this weekend.
DJ Moore: Moore and his gimpy hamstring are trending in the right direction to be active this weekend. While hamstring injuries are always risky propositions (ask any Julio Jones owners over the last few years), Moore will at least be available for a desperation play if your options are limited.
-Kyle Skinner
Twitter: @JKyleSkinner