Weekly Rankings: Week 1 Value Meter

Weekly Rankings: Week 1 Value Meter

This article is part of our Weekly Rankings series.

Sunday Update Complete

Welcome to the Weekly Value Meter Rankings. This is a guide to help you decide who to start and sit in a given week. It's is not a season-long ranking nor a draft guide, and it's also not really intended as a free agent guide. While I appreciate that you want my opinion on pickups, every league is different, and your decision on whether to add/drop a particular player might also be dictated by other factors than who is rated higher in a given week.

Here are my operating assumptions for the rankings:

- The RB/WR/TE position rankings are for PPR leagues.
- The Flex rankings are for Standard leagues.
- 1 point per 10 rushing/receiving yards.
- 1 point per 20 passing yards.
- 4 points per passing touchdowns.

These are the rankings I use when I make my start/sit decisions. Please consult the rankings first before asking "Player X vs. Player Y?" without any other mitigating factors. Of course, I welcome debate - if you think I'm wrong, let me know. But please check out the rankings first before asking your start/sit question. This truly reflects my opinion in my leagues.

These are my particular rankings. If you want a second opinion elsewhere on the site, you can see our Weekly Projections.

Starting after Week 1, the rankings for the subsequent week will first post on Tuesday nights, roughly around 10:00 pm ET. I will then do a set of updates before kickoff on

Sunday Update Complete

Welcome to the Weekly Value Meter Rankings. This is a guide to help you decide who to start and sit in a given week. It's is not a season-long ranking nor a draft guide, and it's also not really intended as a free agent guide. While I appreciate that you want my opinion on pickups, every league is different, and your decision on whether to add/drop a particular player might also be dictated by other factors than who is rated higher in a given week.

Here are my operating assumptions for the rankings:

- The RB/WR/TE position rankings are for PPR leagues.
- The Flex rankings are for Standard leagues.
- 1 point per 10 rushing/receiving yards.
- 1 point per 20 passing yards.
- 4 points per passing touchdowns.

These are the rankings I use when I make my start/sit decisions. Please consult the rankings first before asking "Player X vs. Player Y?" without any other mitigating factors. Of course, I welcome debate - if you think I'm wrong, let me know. But please check out the rankings first before asking your start/sit question. This truly reflects my opinion in my leagues.

These are my particular rankings. If you want a second opinion elsewhere on the site, you can see our Weekly Projections.

Starting after Week 1, the rankings for the subsequent week will first post on Tuesday nights, roughly around 10:00 pm ET. I will then do a set of updates before kickoff on Thursday, and again before kickoff on Sunday morning. I will post at the top of the article in bold font when ranking updates are in progress and when they're complete.

I welcome debate on the rankings in the comments. Please keep it friendly.

Quarterbacks

1.Patrick Mahomes KC vs. HOU
2.*Lamar Jackson BAL vs. CLE
Note: Missed a couple of days with a minor groin injury in mid-August, but he's 100 percent now.
3.*Dak Prescott DAL at LAR
Note: Wasn't asked to do much against the Rams last year in Week 15 in a blowout win, but he was efficient (15-of-23 for 212 yards, two touchdowns). He'll likely have to do more this year.
4.Russell Wilson SEA at ATL
5.Deshaun Watson HOU at KC
6.Matt Ryan ATL vs. SEA
7.*Carson Wentz PHI at WAS
Note: Wentz was limited last week with a groin strain, but resumed practicing in full. He's dropped in recent drafts due to injuries on the OL (Brandon Brooks, Andre Dillard) and his WR corps - notably to Jalen Reagor.
8.*Kyler Murray ARZ at SF
Note: A lot is expected of Murray in Year 2, but starting up against the Niners on the road is a tough spot, especially as it appears that Nick Bosa will play.
9.Josh Allen BUF vs. NYJ
10.*Cam Newton NE vs. MIA
Note: No real surprise here, but Newton has been named the starter over Jarrett Stidham, and was also named the team captain.
11.Drew Brees NO vs. TB
12.*Jimmy Garoppolo SF vs. ARI
Note: I know that the Cardinals added Isaiah Simmons to help cover George Kittle, but this is a pretty sweet matchup to start. The Cardinals allowed 4,510 passing yards and 38 touchdowns last season.
13.*Tom Brady TB at NO
Note: ***Downgraded a few slots with Mike Evans doubtful.***
14.*Aaron Rodgers GB at MIN
Note: Rodgers is facing a Vikings secondary that was completely overhauled in the offseason.
15.Jared Goff LA vs. DAL
16.Ben Roethlisberger PIT at NYG
17.Joe Burrow CIN vs. LAC
18.Teddy Bridgewater CAR vs. LV
19.Ryan Tannehill TEN at DEN
20.*Derek Carr LV at CAR
Note: Carr's backup Marcus Mariota is out with a pectoral strain - Nathan Peterman is the backup. Upon further review, I bumped Carr up a little bit more due to the matchup.
21.Gardner Minshew JAC vs. IND
22.*Matthew Stafford DET vs. CHI
Note: It's possible that Kenny Golladay won't be available this week.
23.*Tyrod Taylor LAC at CIN
Note: Taylor was named the starter ahead of Justin Herbert, and the Chargers went so far to suggest that Herbert wouldn't play much this season.
24.*Baker Mayfield CLE at BAL
Note: I like Mayfield's chances of a rebound, but the Ravens allowed only 15 passing touchdowns last season.
25.Philip Rivers IND at JAX
26.*Dwayne Haskins WAS vs. PHI
Note: Officially named the starter for Week 1.
27.Kirk Cousins MIN vs. GB
28.*Drew Lock DEN vs. TEN
Note: Could be without Courtland Sutton on Monday night.
29.*Daniel Jones NYG vs. PIT
Note: I love Jones's upside and his ability as a runner, but hate the Week 1 matchup against the Steelers.
30.*Ryan Fitzpatrick MIA at NE
Note: Just in case it wasn't clear, the Dolphins officially named Fitzpatrick the starter ahead of Tea Tagovailoa.
31.*Mitchell Trubisky CHI at DET
Note: Officially named the starter ahead of Nick Foles.
32.Sam Darnold NYJ at BUF
33.*Nick Foles CHI at DET
Note: Lost the starting battle to Mitch Trubisky.

Running Backs

1.Christian McCaffrey CAR vs. LV
2.Ezekiel Elliott DAL at LAR
3.Saquon Barkley NYG vs. PIT
4.Clyde Edwards-Helaire KC vs. HOU
5.Josh Jacobs LV at CAR
6.*Alvin Kamara NO vs. TB
Note: Denied that he held out when missing four practices, but his contract remains unsettled. He also had an epidural injection last week for his back. Despite all that, he practiced on Monday. ***Agreed to a five-year contract extension on Saturday.***
7.*Dalvin Cook MIN vs. GB
Note: Contract remains unresolved, but there's no sign of a holdout or shutdown. Cook's contract situation won't impede his availability for Week 1. ***And now the contract isn't an issue at all - five-year deal agreement reached on Saturday.***
8.*Joe Mixon CIN vs. LAC
Note: Signed a long-term deal to stay with the Bengals, and his migraines seemed to go away. Not listed on the injury report.
9.Austin Ekeler LAC at CIN
10.Nick Chubb CLE at BAL
11.Derrick Henry TEN at DEN
12.Aaron Jones GB at MIN
13.James Conner PIT at NYG
14.Raheem Mostert SF vs. ARI
15.*Kenyan Drake ARZ at SF
Note: Had his foot in a walking boot for part of training camp, but he has shed that boot and is fully healthy and ready to suit up for Sunday.
16.*Melvin Gordon DEN vs. TEN
Note: Has missed time here-and-there with a rib injury during training camp, though he's expected to be ready for Week 1. Full practice on Thursday, not on the Broncos' injury report.
17.Chris Carson SEA at ATL
18.David Johnson HOU at KC
19.Mark Ingram BAL vs. CLE
20.*Todd Gurley ATL vs. SEA
Note: Has had his workload managed during training camp, but also has impressed with his speed.
21.*Boston Scott PHI at WAS
Note: ***Big move up with Miles Sanders out this week, but I'd also expect Corey Clement to be very busy as well.***
22.*Jonathan Taylor IND at JAX
Note: Taylor is still listed as second on the Colts' depth chart behind Marlon Mack, though they've been described as a 'one-two' punch.
23.*Kerryon Johnson DET vs. CHI
Note: Should be the starter in Week 1 because Swift missed so many practices, but his role is tenuous, both because of Swift and because of Adrian Peterson.
24.Le'Veon Bell NYJ at BUF
25.*Jordan Howard MIA at NE
Note: Howard is listed as the starter atop the Dolphins' depth chart, though Matt Breida is likely to be the guy on passing downs.
26.*Devin Singletary BUF vs. NYJ
Note: Did not have a great camp, could lose at least the goal line carries and maybe more to Moss.
27.James White NE vs. MIA
28.*Marlon Mack IND at JAX
Note: Listed as the starter ahead of Jonathan Taylor, though they've been described more as a one-two punch. That makes Mack viable in deeper leagues as a flex play, at least, though I'm stubbornly still listing Taylor ahead of him.
29.Tarik Cohen CHI at DET
30.*Sony Michel NE vs. MIA
Note: (Foot) Has looked good in practice since coming off the PUP list, plus Damien Harris will be on IR for at least three games, and Lamar Miller was waived by the Pats.
31.*Cam Akers LA vs. DAL
Note: Sharing first-team reps with Malcolm Brown, though it hasn't depressed his draft price much. Unofficially listed third on the Rams' depth chart.
32.*Antonio Gibson WAS vs. PHI
Note: Could start right away, especially after the Football Team released Adrian Peterson.
33.Kareem Hunt CLE at BAL
34.*James Robinson JAC vs. IND
Note: Listed atop the Jaguars' depth chart at running back, but it's going to be a 'mix-and-match' situation. Not only is he listed as the starter, but now Devine Ozigbo is on the IR for at least three weeks with a hamstring injury.
35.*Ronald Jones TB at NO
Note: Was thought to be on the verge of a breakout before the signing of Fournette.
36.*David Montgomery CHI at DET
Note: Questionable for Week 1 with a groin injury. Limited participant in Wednesday's practice, but upgraded to full on Thursday. ***Full practice again on Friday, expected to receive a full workload Sunday.
37.*Leonard Fournette TB at NO
Note: Does anyone believe coach Bruce Arians when he says that Ronald Jones 'is still our guy?' No? Ok, but it'll probably be a timeshare early on as Fournette learns the offense. On the initial depth chart, he's listed third. Set for a 'solid' Week 1 role.
38.Phillip Lindsay DEN vs. TEN
39.*Corey Clement PHI at WAS
Note: *Bigger role this week with Miles Sanders out.***
40.*Latavius Murray NO vs. TB
Note: It looks like Kamara will be ready to go for Week 1, but Murray might get a little more work than normal due to the missed practice time.
41.J.K. Dobbins BAL vs. CLE
42.Zack Moss BUF vs. NYJ
43.Matt Breida MIA at NE
44.*Chris Thompson JAC vs. IND
Note: James Robinson is the starter, but Thompson is the pass catcher. The Jags did add Dare Ogunbowale, but it's hard to imagine him having a big role in such a short ramp-up period.
45.Tony Pollard DAL at LAR
46.Jerick McKinnon SF vs. ARI
47.*D'Andre Swift DET vs. CHI
Note: Missed a number of practices with an undisclosed injury, that presumably the Lions will have to reveal by Wednesday. (Hip) Limited participant in Wednesday and Thursday's practice. It looks like he'll be available to play, but his workload remains in doubt. ***Full practice Friday and removed from the injury list.***
48.*Duke Johnson HOU at KC
Note: ***Suffered a sprained ankle in Thursday's loss and will be week-to-week.***
49.*Malcolm Brown LA vs. DAL
Note: Sharing reps with Cam Akers with the first-team offense, with Darrell Henderson nursing a sore hamstring.
50.Nyheim Hines IND at JAX
51.Benny Snell PIT at NYG
52.*Darrell Henderson LA vs. DAL
Note: (Hamstring) Has missed significant practice time, but he's been running on the side and is tending in the right direction. Still, it's hard to imagine him getting full work in Week 1 or using him this week. Full practice reps on Wednesday. ***Removed from the injury list, cleared to play this week.***
53.*Darrel Williams KC vs. HOU
Note: Beat out DeAndre Washington for the Chiefs' backup role, and it's possible he could steal goal line carries from C-E-H.
54.*Carlos Hyde SEA at ATL
Note: (Shoulder) Not listed on Wednesday's injury report and is set to play.
55.Alexander Mattison MIN vs. GB
56.Chase Edmonds ARZ at SF
57.Joshua Kelley LAC at CIN
58.Frank Gore NYJ at BUF
59.Jamaal Williams GB at MIN
60.*Brian Hill ATL vs. SEA
Note: Drew praise from coach Dan Quinn as one of the most improved players in Falcons camp, seems to be ahead of Ito Smith in the pecking order.
61.*Peyton Barber WAS vs. PHI
Note: Might see some early down work early in the season, especially if Washington isn't ready to commit to Antonio Gibson.
62.*AJ Dillon GB at MIN
Note: Expected to be Green Bay's No. 3 running back to begin the season.
63.*Justin Jackson LAC at CIN
Note: Dealing with a toe injury but is expected to practice fully on Wednesday and be ready for Sunday's game. No longer on the injury report.
64.*J.D. McKissic WAS vs. PHI
Note: Could be the third-down back given his experience, though he has similar skills to presumed starter Antonio Gibson.
65.*Adrian Peterson DET vs. CHI
Note: Surprisingly waived by the Washington Football Team. Signed with Detroit, and it's possible that Peterson could play in Week 1 - 'we'll see' was Matt Patricia's response when asked if Peterson will suit up.
66.Rex Burkhead NE vs. MIA
67.*Bryce Love WAS vs. PHI
Note: The Washington Football Team could carry four backs to begin the season.
68.Giovani Bernard CIN vs. LAC
69.Mike Davis CAR vs. LV
70.*Anthony McFarland PIT at NYG
Note: ***Dealt with a concussion in late August but has been cleared from the protocol.***
71.*Senorise Perry TEN at DEN
Note: ***Backup to Henry with Evans ruled out.***
72.*Tevin Coleman SF vs. ARI
Note:

***Potentially could be held out Sunday due to the air-quality conditions, in concert with him having the sickle-cell trait. If they don't postpone the game entirely.***

73.*Miles Sanders PHI at WAS
Note: Suffered a lower body injury presumed to be a hamstring issue in training camp, but is expected to be ready for Week 1. (Hamstring) Limited in practice both Wednesday and Thursday.
74.*La'Mical Perine NYJ at BUF
Note: Suffered a hamstring injury in training camp, and is probably behind Frank Gore on the depth chart. Did not practice Wednesday. ***Ruled out for Week 1.***
75.*Darrynton Evans TEN at DEN
Note: Dealt with fumbling problems and an undisclosed injury in camp, but should be ready to back up Derrick Henry in Week 1. (Hamstring) Limited in practice Thursday. ***Ruled out for Monday night.***
76.*Devine Ozigbo JAC vs. IND
Note: Currently second on the depth chart, but it's going to be a mix-and-match situation for the Jaguars backfield. Placed on IR with a hamstring injury.
77.*Damien Harris NE vs. MIA
Note: (Finger) Placed on IR by the Pats and will miss at least three games.
78.*Ryquell Armstead JAC vs. IND
Note: Back on the COVID list and could miss extended time.

Wide Receivers

1.Michael Thomas NO vs. TB
2.Davante Adams GB at MIN
3.*Julio Jones ATL vs. SEA
Note: ***(Hamstring) Limited practice Friday, yet isn't on the injury report.***
4.*Tyreek Hill KC vs. HOU
Note: (Hamstring) Not listed on the Week 1 injury report.
5.Chris Godwin TB at NO
6.*DeAndre Hopkins ARZ at SF
Note: Close to agreeing on a new contract extension that could make him the highest-paid receiver in the league. Earlier in training camp he was hampered by a hamstring issue. Full practice Thursday.
7.Allen Robinson CHI at DET
8.DJ Chark JAC vs. IND
9.Terry McLaurin WAS vs. PHI
10.DK Metcalf SEA at ATL
11.JuJu Smith-Schuster PIT at NYG
12.Adam Thielen MIN vs. GB
13.D.J. Moore CAR vs. LV
14.Odell Beckham CLE at BAL
15.Calvin Ridley ATL vs. SEA
16.*Amari Cooper DAL at LAR
Note: Missed four practices last week with an undisclosed issue, but the Cowboys downplayed the severity of it. (Hamstring) Expected to be at full capacity on Sunday night. ***Removed from the injury list.***
17.*Keenan Allen LAC at CIN
Note: Quietly signed a four-year, $80 million extension on Sunday, putting him behind only Julio Jones, Amari Cooper and likely DeAndre Hopkins once Hopkins' deal is done.
18.*Cooper Kupp LA vs. DAL
Note: Had a leg issue last week but was back to full speed by Thursday. ***Signed a three-year, $48 million contract extension Saturday.***
19.Tyler Lockett SEA at ATL
20.Tyler Boyd CIN vs. LAC
21.*A.J. Brown TEN at DEN
Note: Not listed on the initial injury report after missing time in practice last week.
22.Robert Woods LA vs. DAL
23.Michael Gallup DAL at LAR
24.T.Y. Hilton IND at JAX
25.Marquise Brown BAL vs. CLE
26.Will Fuller HOU at KC
27.*DeSean Jackson PHI at WAS
Note: Fully healthy for now, and Reagor is unlikely to play for at least Week 1. ***I'm still high on Jackson this week - Reagor will play after all, but how much? I still think Jackson is heavily involved in the game plan.***
28.*Jarvis Landry CLE at BAL
Note: Not on the injury report, but there's a chance that his snap count might be limited in Week 1.
29.*A.J. Green CIN vs. LAC
Note: (Hamstring) Expected to be a full-go for Week 1. Declared his hamstring to be 'back to 100 percent' - but he might be on a bit of a snap count in the opener.
30.*Marvin Jones DET vs. CHI
Note: ***Could be very busy on Sunday - Golladay is doubtful and Danny Amendola is questionable.***
31.*Stefon Diggs BUF vs. NYJ
Note: (Back) Diggs was limited in practice a little last week.
32.*DeVante Parker MIA at NE
Note: Missed time with an undisclosed injury last week, but the Dolphins are hopeful that he won't be on the injury report for Week 1. (Hamstring) Limited practices Wednesday and Thursday. ***Full practice Friday, removed from the injury list.***
33.Anthony Miller CHI at DET
34.Darius Slayton NYG vs. PIT
35.Emmanuel Sanders NO vs. TB
36.*Julian Edelman NE vs. MIA
Note: (Knee) Limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday. ***Cleared from the injury list - the Pats appear committed to limiting his reps in practice this season.***
37.Christian Kirk ARZ at SF
38.*Breshad Perriman NYJ at BUF
Note: Knee is improving and an MRI revealed no structural damage last week. Wednesday's practice could reveal a lot about his status for Week 1.
39.CeeDee Lamb DAL at LAR
40.*Henry Ruggs LV at CAR
Note: First receiver drafted, will begin as a starter immediately.
41.Jerry Jeudy DEN vs. TEN
42.Sterling Shepard NYG vs. PIT
43.John Brown BUF vs. NYJ
44.*Jamison Crowder NYJ at BUF
Note: Missed a little time with a lower leg issue in training camp but has since returned. (Hamstring) Full practice Wednesday.
45.*Sammy Watkins KC vs. HOU
Note: Dealt with a sore groin in training camp, but is off the injured list for Week 1.
46.Robby Anderson CAR vs. LV
47.*Kendrick Bourne SF vs. ARI
Note: Could get a decent number of targets if Deebo Samuel doesn't play, and maybe even if he does.
48.James Washington PIT at NYG
49.*Preston Williams MIA at NE
Note: (Knee) Limited participant in practices on Wednesday and Thursday. ***Full practice Friday, removed from the injury list.***
50.Trent Taylor SF vs. ARI
51.*Mike Evans TB at NO
Note: Traditionally has struggled against the Saints. Did not practice either Wednesday or Thursday due to a hamstring issue. ***Had a limited practice on Friday and was initially listed as doubtful, but then was upgraded to questionable on Saturday. He's expected to be on a snap count Sunday, and I'd be hesitant to start him.***
52.*Jalen Reagor PHI at WAS
Note: (Shoulder) Likely out for at least Week 1, could be longer. Surprisingly participated in full at Thursday's practice. ***Cleared from the injury list and will play.***
53.*Bryan Edwards LV at CAR
Note: Listed as a starter now that Tyrell Williams is out for the season, along with Henry Ruggs and Hunter Renfrow.
54.*N'Keal Harry NE vs. MIA
Note: ***Popped up on the injury list with a shoulder injury and is questionable, but is expected to play.***
55.*Kenny Stills HOU at KC
Note: Could get a bump up if Cooks's injury is greater than initially perceived.
56.*Van Jefferson LA vs. DAL
Note: Drew raves in camp, so while he's technically behind Josh Reynolds on the depth chart, I expect more from him.
57.Laviska Shenault JAC vs. IND
58.*Hunter Renfrow LV at CAR
Note: Was Derek Carr's favorite wideout the last few weeks of the season, will likely start in the slot.
59.*Scotty Miller TB at NO
Note: Likely has won the third receiver job for the Bucs. This has taken on greater importance in light of Mike Evans' hamstring injury.
60.*Mecole Hardman KC vs. HOU
Note: Game-changing skills, but will he get sufficient opportunities to display those skills?
61.*Parris Campbell IND at JAX
Note: Fully cleared from the concussion protocol after initially getting hurt in a car accident two weeks ago.
62.*Justin Jefferson MIN vs. GB
Note: Officially listed behind Bisi Johnson on the Vikings' depth chart.
63.*Brandin Cooks HOU at KC
Note: Has been managing a quad injury since training camp - showed up on Monday's first injury report in advance of Thursday's game. Did not practice Tuesday, was estimated as 'limited' on Wednesday. Cooks is optimistic that he'll be able to play, but you'd have to think that he'll be limited if he does play.
64.*Diontae Johnson PIT at NYG
Note: One of the early 'helium guys' in draft season. He'll also return punts again this season - with the Steelers, that doesn't hurt your status so much. Sat out practice Thursday with a foot issue. ***Returned to a full practice on Friday.***
65.*Golden Tate NYG vs. PIT
Note: (Lower body) Held out of practice Monday. (Hamstring) Limited practice Thursday. ***Officially listed as questionable.***
66.Allen Lazard GB at MIN
67.Chase Claypool PIT at NYG
68.Steven Sims WAS vs. PHI
69.Larry Fitzgerald ARZ at SF
70.Randall Cobb HOU at KC
71.*J.J. Arcega-Whiteside PHI at WAS
Note: Could be in line for a decent number of targets due to injuries to Jalen Reagor and Alshon Jeffery. He was a disappointment as a rookie, but often receivers make a sizable leap in Year 2.
72.*Michael Pittman IND at JAX
Note: Listed fourth on the Colts' initial depth chart. It seems as if the Colts are purposely burying their rookies on the depth chart to begin the season.
73.Curtis Samuel CAR vs. LV
74.Andy Isabella ARZ at SF
75.Miles Boykin BAL vs. CLE
76.*Brandon Aiyuk SF vs. ARI
Note: The Niners are hopeful that Aiyuk (hamstring) can return to practice this week. Limited practice on Thursday - ahead of Deebo Samuel right now. ***Limited in Friday's practice and is listed as questionable.***
77.Tee Higgins CIN vs. LAC
78.*Corey Davis TEN at DEN
Note: (Hamstring) Limited at Thursday's practice. ***Full practices on Friday and Saturday - listed as questionable but should play.***
79.*Bisi Johnson MIN vs. GB
Note: Technically the Vikings' No. 2 receiver.
80.Marquez Valdes-Scantling GB at MIN
81.Justin Watson TB at NO
82.*Russell Gage ATL vs. SEA
Note: Returned to practice Monday after earlier missing time with an undisclosed injury. Limited with a groin injury.
83.*Courtland Sutton DEN vs. TEN
Note: Sutton suffered a sprained AC joint in his shoulder in Thursday's practice. He'll have to be considered questionable for Monday night's game against the Titans. ***Limited work on the side on Saturday - going to be a game-time decision. Given that the Broncos are playing the late game on Monday night, I can't comfortably start him.***
84.*Mike Williams LAC at CIN
Note: (Shoulder) - One day he's out for September, the next he's a game-time decision for Week 1. I wouldn't count on him playing. Limited practice on Wednesday. ***Limited practice all week and initially was unexpected to play, but now reports are surfacing that the Chargers want to see him during warmups before deciding.***
85.*Kenny Golladay DET vs. CHI
Note: Popped up on the injury report Wednesday with a hamstring injury, and was officially listed as a non-participant in Thursday's practice. ***Held out of practice again on Friday, listed as doubtful.***
86.*Dede Westbrook JAC vs. IND
Note: (Shoulder) Hasn't fully practiced in two weeks and is listed fifth on the Jaguars' depth chart.
87.*Deebo Samuel SF vs. ARI
Note: (Jones' foot fracture) Activated from the non-football injury list Saturday. This allows Samuel to play in Week 1 if he's ready, though it's not yet certain if he'll play. Until he practices this week, we'll keep him down at the bottom section of the list. If he's a full-go, he moves up to somewhere in the 30's. Held out of practice Wednesday and Thursday - I can't recommend using him this week, absent a full practice Friday. ***Placed on IR, which knocks him out for the first three games at minimum.***
88.*Denzel Mims NYJ at BUF
Note: (Hamstring) Missed a good portion of training camp, not currently listed as a starter. Limited practice so far this week. ***Sat out practice Friday and has been ruled out.***
89.*Alshon Jeffery PHI at WAS
Note: (Foot) Activated from the PUP list on Saturday, but that might just have been to facilitate a trade, though GM Howie Roseman disputed that the Eagles are actively shopping Jeffery. Still, he hasn't practiced yet, so it's hard to believe he'll be ready to play anytime soon. Did not practice Wednesday or Thursday. ***Officially ruled out.***

Tight Ends

1.*George Kittle SF vs. ARI
Note: (Hamstring) Returned to practice last Wednesday after missing some training camp time.
2.*Travis Kelce KC vs. HOU
Note: (Knee) Limited in practice Monday. Upgraded to a full participant on Tuesday.
3.Mark Andrews BAL vs. CLE
4.Zach Ertz PHI at WAS
5.Darren Waller LV at CAR
6.Hunter Henry LAC at CIN
7.Jared Cook NO vs. TB
8.*Tyler Higbee LA vs. DAL
Note: The Cowboys were part of his massive run last season - 12 catches for 111 yards.
9.*T.J. Hockenson DET vs. CHI
Note: Declared his ankle to be 100 percent.
10.Evan Engram NYG vs. PIT
11.Rob Gronkowski TB at NO
12.Hayden Hurst ATL vs. SEA
13.Dallas Goedert PHI at WAS
14.Blake Jarwin DAL at LAR
15.Jonnu Smith TEN at DEN
16.Noah Fant DEN vs. TEN
17.Austin Hooper CLE at BAL
18.*Mike Gesicki MIA at NE
Note: Technically listed as the No. 2 tight end, but that's supposed to be more as the 'receiving tight end.' Limited participant on Wednesday and Thursday in practice with a glute injury. ***Full practice Friday, removed from the injury list.***
19.Irv Smith MIN vs. GB
20.*Chris Herndon NYJ at BUF
Note: Missed a little time with chest tightness was soon returned to practice.
21.*Jack Doyle IND at JAX
Note: Perhaps gets a small boost with Trey Burton (calf) placed on injured reserve. (Neck) Not listed on the initial injury report.
22.*Ian Thomas CAR vs. LV
Note: (Toe) In line to play in Week 1. Full practice Wednesday.
23.*O.J. Howard TB at NO
Note: Listed as a 'co-starter' along with Gronk on the Bucs' depth chart. Howard reportedly had a great camp, but will that translate into routes and targets?
24.Logan Thomas WAS vs. PHI
25.Greg Olsen SEA at ATL
26.*Eric Ebron PIT at NYG
Note: Drew positive reviews in camp, but I'm not sure how that trumps his body of work over his career. I remain a skeptic.
27.*Gerald Everett LA vs. DAL
Note: The Rams received trade entreaties for Everett but did not entertain them.
28.*Tyler Eifert JAC vs. IND
Note: Currently behind James O'Shaughnessy on the depth chart, but that might just mean he won't be in there to block.
29.Darren Fells HOU at KC
30.Jimmy Graham CHI at DET
31.Dawson Knox BUF vs. NYJ
32.*Will Dissly SEA at ATL
Note: ***(Achilles' Tear) Cleared from the injury list after last season's brutal injury.***
33.*Robert Tonyan GB at MIN
Note: Could end up starting ahead of Sternberger.
34.Jace Sternberger GB at MIN
35.C.J. Uzomah CIN vs. LAC
36.Dan Arnold ARZ at SF
37.Harrison Bryant CLE at BAL
38.*Albert Okwuegbunam DEN vs. TEN
Note: (Ankle) Limited during Thursday's practice.

Flex (RB/WR/TE)

1.Christian McCaffrey CAR vs. LV
2.Ezekiel Elliott DAL at LAR
3.Saquon Barkley NYG vs. PIT
4.Josh Jacobs LV at CAR
5.*Joe Mixon CIN vs. LAC
Note: Signed a long-term deal to stay with the Bengals, and his migraines seemed to go away. Not listed on the injury report.
6.Michael Thomas NO vs. TB
7.Davante Adams GB at MIN
8.Nick Chubb CLE at BAL
9.Derrick Henry TEN at DEN
10.Clyde Edwards-Helaire KC vs. HOU
11.*Julio Jones ATL vs. SEA
Note: ***(Hamstring) Limited practice Friday, yet isn't on the injury report.***
12.*Alvin Kamara NO vs. TB
Note: Denied that he held out when missing four practices, but his contract remains unsettled. He also had an epidural injection last week for his back. Despite all that, he practiced on Monday. ***Agreed to a five-year contract extension on Saturday.***
13.*Dalvin Cook MIN vs. GB
Note: Contract remains unresolved, but there's no sign of a holdout or shutdown. Cook's contract situation won't impede his availability for Week 1. ***And now the contract isn't an issue at all - five-year deal agreement reached on Saturday.***
14.*Tyreek Hill KC vs. HOU
Note: (Hamstring) Not listed on the Week 1 injury report.
15.Aaron Jones GB at MIN
16.James Conner PIT at NYG
17.*George Kittle SF vs. ARI
Note: (Hamstring) Returned to practice last Wednesday after missing some training camp time.
18.*Travis Kelce KC vs. HOU
Note: (Knee) Limited in practice Monday. Upgraded to a full participant on Tuesday.
19.*DeAndre Hopkins ARZ at SF
Note: Close to agreeing on a new contract extension that could make him the highest-paid receiver in the league. Earlier in training camp he was hampered by a hamstring issue. Full practice Thursday.
20.Allen Robinson CHI at DET
21.*Kenyan Drake ARZ at SF
Note: Had his foot in a walking boot for part of training camp, but he has shed that boot and is fully healthy and ready to suit up for Sunday.
22.David Johnson HOU at KC
23.Chris Carson SEA at ATL
24.Raheem Mostert SF vs. ARI
25.DJ Chark JAC vs. IND
26.Austin Ekeler LAC at CIN
27.Chris Godwin TB at NO
28.Terry McLaurin WAS vs. PHI
29.Mark Andrews BAL vs. CLE
30.Mark Ingram BAL vs. CLE
31.*Boston Scott PHI at WAS
Note: ***Big move up with Miles Sanders out this week, but I'd also expect Corey Clement to be very busy as well.***
32.*Melvin Gordon DEN vs. TEN
Note: Has missed time here-and-there with a rib injury during training camp, though he's expected to be ready for Week 1. Full practice on Thursday, not on the Broncos' injury report.
33.*Todd Gurley ATL vs. SEA
Note: Has had his workload managed during training camp, but also has impressed with his speed.
34.DK Metcalf SEA at ATL
35.JuJu Smith-Schuster PIT at NYG
36.Odell Beckham CLE at BAL
37.Adam Thielen MIN vs. GB
38.D.J. Moore CAR vs. LV
39.Calvin Ridley ATL vs. SEA
40.*Courtland Sutton DEN vs. TEN
Note: Sutton suffered a sprained AC joint in his shoulder in Thursday's practice. He'll have to be considered questionable for Monday night's game against the Titans. ***Limited work on the side on Saturday - going to be a game-time decision. Given that the Broncos are playing the late game on Monday night, I can't comfortably start him.***
41.*Amari Cooper DAL at LAR
Note: Missed four practices last week with an undisclosed issue, but the Cowboys downplayed the severity of it. (Hamstring) Expected to be at full capacity on Sunday night. ***Removed from the injury list.***
42.*Keenan Allen LAC at CIN
Note: Quietly signed a four-year, $80 million extension on Sunday, putting him behind only Julio Jones, Amari Cooper and likely DeAndre Hopkins once Hopkins' deal is done.
43.Zach Ertz PHI at WAS
44.*Cooper Kupp LA vs. DAL
Note: Had a leg issue last week but was back to full speed by Thursday. ***Signed a three-year, $48 million contract extension Saturday.***
45.Tyler Lockett SEA at ATL
46.Tyler Boyd CIN vs. LAC
47.*Jonathan Taylor IND at JAX
Note: Taylor is still listed as second on the Colts' depth chart behind Marlon Mack, though they've been described as a 'one-two' punch.
48.*Kerryon Johnson DET vs. CHI
Note: Should be the starter in Week 1 because Swift missed so many practices, but his role is tenuous, both because of Swift and because of Adrian Peterson.
49.*A.J. Brown TEN at DEN
Note: Not listed on the initial injury report after missing time in practice last week.
50.Michael Gallup DAL at LAR
51.Darren Waller LV at CAR
52.*DeVante Parker MIA at NE
Note: Missed time with an undisclosed injury last week, but the Dolphins are hopeful that he won't be on the injury report for Week 1. (Hamstring) Limited practices Wednesday and Thursday. ***Full practice Friday, removed from the injury list.***
53.Le'Veon Bell NYJ at BUF
54.*Jordan Howard MIA at NE
Note: Howard is listed as the starter atop the Dolphins' depth chart, though Matt Breida is likely to be the guy on passing downs.
55.Robert Woods LA vs. DAL
56.T.Y. Hilton IND at JAX
57.Marquise Brown BAL vs. CLE
58.*Ronald Jones TB at NO
Note: Was thought to be on the verge of a breakout before the signing of Fournette.
59.*Sony Michel NE vs. MIA
Note: (Foot) Has looked good in practice since coming off the PUP list, plus Damien Harris will be on IR for at least three games, and Lamar Miller was waived by the Pats.
60.Hunter Henry LAC at CIN
61.*Tyler Higbee LA vs. DAL
Note: The Cowboys were part of his massive run last season - 12 catches for 111 yards.
62.Jared Cook NO vs. TB
63.*Cam Akers LA vs. DAL
Note: Sharing first-team reps with Malcolm Brown, though it hasn't depressed his draft price much. Unofficially listed third on the Rams' depth chart.
64.Tarik Cohen CHI at DET
65.*DeSean Jackson PHI at WAS
Note: Fully healthy for now, and Reagor is unlikely to play for at least Week 1. ***I'm still high on Jackson this week - Reagor will play after all, but how much? I still think Jackson is heavily involved in the game plan.***
66.*A.J. Green CIN vs. LAC
Note: (Hamstring) Expected to be a full-go for Week 1. Declared his hamstring to be 'back to 100 percent' - but he might be on a bit of a snap count in the opener.
67.Anthony Miller CHI at DET
68.Will Fuller HOU at KC
69.*Stefon Diggs BUF vs. NYJ
Note: (Back) Diggs was limited in practice a little last week.
70.*Marlon Mack IND at JAX
Note: Listed as the starter ahead of Jonathan Taylor, though they've been described more as a one-two punch. That makes Mack viable in deeper leagues as a flex play, at least, though I'm stubbornly still listing Taylor ahead of him.
71.Zack Moss BUF vs. NYJ
72.*T.J. Hockenson DET vs. CHI
Note: Declared his ankle to be 100 percent.
73.Evan Engram NYG vs. PIT
74.*Antonio Gibson WAS vs. PHI
Note: Could start right away, especially after the Football Team released Adrian Peterson.
75.Phillip Lindsay DEN vs. TEN
76.*Julian Edelman NE vs. MIA
Note: (Knee) Limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday. ***Cleared from the injury list - the Pats appear committed to limiting his reps in practice this season.***
77.*Jarvis Landry CLE at BAL
Note: Not on the injury report, but there's a chance that his snap count might be limited in Week 1.
78.*Diontae Johnson PIT at NYG
Note: One of the early 'helium guys' in draft season. He'll also return punts again this season - with the Steelers, that doesn't hurt your status so much. Sat out practice Thursday with a foot issue. ***Returned to a full practice on Friday.***
79.*Marvin Jones DET vs. CHI
Note: ***Could be very busy on Sunday - Golladay is doubtful and Danny Amendola is questionable.***
80.Darius Slayton NYG vs. PIT
81.Emmanuel Sanders NO vs. TB
82.CeeDee Lamb DAL at LAR
83.Jerry Jeudy DEN vs. TEN
84.Sterling Shepard NYG vs. PIT
85.John Brown BUF vs. NYJ
86.*Devin Singletary BUF vs. NYJ
Note: Did not have a great camp, could lose at least the goal line carries and maybe more to Moss.
87.James White NE vs. MIA
88.Kareem Hunt CLE at BAL
89.*Latavius Murray NO vs. TB
Note: It looks like Kamara will be ready to go for Week 1, but Murray might get a little more work than normal due to the missed practice time.
90.J.K. Dobbins BAL vs. CLE
91.Hayden Hurst ATL vs. SEA
92.Dallas Goedert PHI at WAS
93.*Henry Ruggs LV at CAR
Note: First receiver drafted, will begin as a starter immediately.
94.*Mike Evans TB at NO
Note: Traditionally has struggled against the Saints. Did not practice either Wednesday or Thursday due to a hamstring issue. ***Had a limited practice on Friday and was initially listed as doubtful, but then was upgraded to questionable on Saturday. He's expected to be on a snap count Sunday, and I'd be hesitant to start him.***
95.*Jamison Crowder NYJ at BUF
Note: Missed a little time with a lower leg issue in training camp but has since returned. (Hamstring) Full practice Wednesday.
96.*Sammy Watkins KC vs. HOU
Note: Dealt with a sore groin in training camp, but is off the injured list for Week 1.
97.Robby Anderson CAR vs. LV
98.*Corey Clement PHI at WAS
Note: *Bigger role this week with Miles Sanders out.***
99.*Kendrick Bourne SF vs. ARI
Note: Could get a decent number of targets if Deebo Samuel doesn't play, and maybe even if he does.
100.*Kenny Golladay DET vs. CHI
Note: Popped up on the injury report Wednesday with a hamstring injury, and was officially listed as a non-participant in Thursday's practice. ***Held out of practice again on Friday, listed as doubtful.***

Kickers

1.Justin Tucker BAL vs. CLE
2.Harrison Butker KC vs. HOU
3.Wil Lutz NO vs. TB
4.Greg Zuerlein DAL at LAR
5.Younghoe Koo ATL vs. SEA
6.Robbie Gould SF vs. ARI
7.Dan Bailey MIN vs. GB
8.Chris Boswell PIT at NYG
9.Jason Myers SEA at ATL
10.Jake Elliott PHI at WAS
11.Mason Crosby GB at MIN
12.Zane Gonzalez ARZ at SF
13.*Brandon McManus DEN vs. TEN
Note: ***Signed a four-year contract extension on Saturday.***
14.Ka'imi Fairbairn HOU at KC
15.Michael Badgley LAC at CIN
16.*Stephen Gostkowski TEN at DEN
Note: Won the Titans' starting kicker job over Tucker McCann.
17.Daniel Carlson LV at CAR
18.Matt Prater DET vs. CHI
19.*Rodrigo Blankenship IND at JAX
Note: The rookie from Georgia won the Colts' kicking job battle.
20.Joey Slye CAR vs. LV
21.Josh Lambo JAC vs. IND
22.*Ryan Succop TB at NO
Note: Beat out Matt Gay for the Bucs' starting job.
23.*Austin Seibert CLE at BAL
Note: The Browns added Cody Parkey to the practice squad for insurance behind Seibert.
24.*Tyler Bass BUF vs. NYJ
Note: Replaces Stephen Hauschka for the Bills' job.
25.*Sam Sloman LA vs. DAL
Note: Beat out Austin MacGinnis and Lirim Hajrullahu for the starting job for the Rams.
26.Randy Bullock CIN vs. LAC
27.Graham Gano NYG vs. PIT
28.Jason Sanders MIA at NE
29.*Sam Ficken NYJ at BUF
Note: Beat out Brett Maher for the Jets' job.
30.Dustin Hopkins WAS vs. PHI
31.*Nick Folk NE vs. MIA
Note: Current Pats kicker? 'None of the above.' It's expected either Folk or Rohrwasser will be added to the active roster prior to the game, but both were cut last weekend. ***Elevated from the practice squad and will kick for the Pats this week.***
32.*Cairo Santos CHI at DET
Note: Available on 'standby' for the Bears. ***Added to the active roster on Saturday.***
33.*Eddy Pineiro CHI at DET
Note: (Groin) Unlikely to be available for Week 1, yet the Bears still waived Cairo Santos. Santos signed with the practice squad, however, and will likely be the pivot if Pineiro can't go. ***Out this week, with Santos added to the active roster.***
34.*Justin Rohrwasser at
Note: Current Pats kicker? 'None of the above.' It's expected either Folk or Rohrwasser will be added to the active roster prior to the game, but both were cut last weekend.
35.*Chase McLaughlin at
Note: Waived by the Colts.
36.*Matt Gay at
Note: Waived by the Bucs in favor of Rodrigo Blankenship.

Defenses

1.*Buffalo Bills vs. NYJ
Note: Starting the year against the Jets is pretty sweet, especially with all of their fantasy-position injuries.
2.*Pittsburgh Steelers at NYG
Note: A team defense that generates a good pass rush and turnovers against a QB-prone quarterback? Sounds good to me.
3.*San Francisco 49ers vs. ARI
Note: Nick Bosa (leg) is expected to play.
4.*Indianapolis Colts at JAX
Note: Have to like streaming against a Jaguars team that has been shedding talent since the middle of last season.
5.*New England Patriots vs. MIA
Note: Stephon Gilmore (hamstring) was limited for Thursday's practice.
6.*Baltimore Ravens vs. CLE
Note: ***Jimmy Smith is a late add to the injury list with back spasms.***
7.*Los Angeles Chargers at CIN
Note: Facing a rookie QB in his debut, albeit without Derwin James, who is out for the season with a knee injury.
8.New Orleans Saints vs. TB
9.*Philadelphia Eagles at WAS
Note: On one hand, the Eagles are already banged up, but most of that is on the offensive side of the ball. Losing Will Parks to a hamstring injury hurts a little bit, and there are a handful of defensive linemen banged up. On the other hand, I like going up against Washington - Haskins will eventually be better, but I like attacking them early in the season.
10.Tampa Bay Buccaneers at NO
11.Kansas City Chiefs vs. HOU
12.*Denver Broncos vs. TEN
Note: Year 2 of the Vic Fangio defense, plus they get Bradley Chubb back, though it appears it will be for limited snaps early on. Von Miller suffered a dislocated perineal tendon in his ankle in practice and is out for the season. Brutal injury.
13.*Seattle Seahawks at ATL
Note: I'm curious how big of a bump the Jamal Adams acquisition makes.
14.*Washington Football Team vs. PHI
Note: With the addition of Chase Young, WFT has a legit pass rush, and they're going up against an Eagles OL already down two starters. This is a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency play.
15.*Chicago Bears at DET
Note: ***Khalil Mack (knee) was limited in practice all week and is listed as questionable.***
16.*Tennessee Titans at DEN
Note: Ultimately a big boost with the signing of Jadeveon Clowney, but probably not this week - it'll be hard to have his conditioning up in a hurry, especially with the Titans' first game in the altitude in Denver. ***Adoree Jackson (knee) has been ruled out.***
17.*Detroit Lions vs. CHI
Note: Not a great defense, but they get to face Mitchell Trubisky. Jeff Okudah (hamstring) was limited on Thursday. Allen Robinson could eat on Sunday. ***Okudah is questionable and trending in the wrong direction.***
18.*Minnesota Vikings vs. GB
Note: DE Danielle Hunter missed 12 practices with 'a little tweak.' Seems like a moderate tweak to me. The Vikings are playing with a revamped secondary. And now they're playing without star DE Danielle Hunter, who will be on the IR for at least three weeks with a neck injury.
19.Green Bay Packers at MIN
20.New York Jets at BUF
21.*Dallas Cowboys at LAR
Note: S Xavier Woods has been dealing with an ankle injury, but has a good shot to play Sunday night. LB Sean Lee is already out with a sports hernia.
22.*Cincinnati Bengals vs. LAC
Note: First test of the Tyrod Taylor experience. Unfortunately one of their big offseason signs, CB Trae Waynes, is out with a pectoral injury, and S Shawn Williams is banged up. Geno Atkins (shoulder) has missed two practices so far and his 96-games played streak is at risk. ***Atkins is officially out.***
23.*Miami Dolphins at NE
Note: CB Xavien Howard (knee) is uncertain for Week 1.
24.*Cleveland Browns at BAL
Note: Greedy Williams (shoulder) was limited to work on the side and is not expected to play this week.
25.Los Angeles Rams vs. DAL
26.Arizona Cardinals at SF
27.*New York Giants vs. PIT
Note: Second-round pick Xavier McKinney fractured his foot and was placed on IR. The Giants were also forced to hold the Mayo, as LB David Mayo is out with a knee injury.
28.Jacksonville Jaguars vs. IND
29.*Carolina Panthers vs. LV
Note: The Panthers are already down Eli Apple (ankle/foot) and could be starting waiver claim Rasul Douglas in Week 1. Seems fine.
30.Houston Texans at KC
31.Las Vegas Raiders at CAR
32.Atlanta Falcons vs. SEA
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jeff Erickson
Jeff Erickson is a co-founder of RotoWire and the only two-time winner of Baseball Writer of the Year from the Fantasy Sports Writers Association. He's also in the FSWA Hall of Fame. He roots for the Reds, Bengals, Red Wings, Pacers and Northwestern University (the real NU).
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