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As the NFL season progresses, injuries continue to impact fantasy football lineups. In Week 4, a significant number of key players have been ruled out, leaving fantasy managers searching for viable alternatives. The latest updates reveal that several stars will be sidelined, including Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who is dealing with an ankle injury. The Vikings are expected to give him a week to recover, as they face the Miami Dolphins.
Other notable injuries include Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua, who is anticipated to return but may be limited in snaps against the Philadelphia Eagles, and San Francisco 49ers wideout Mike Evans, whose status for the game against the Denver Broncos will be determined closer to kickoff. Additionally, three running backs—Breece Hall of the New York Jets, Jadarian Price of the Seattle Seahawks, and Rachaad White of the Washington Commanders—have been ruled out, along with four receivers: DeVonta Smith (Eagles), Keenan Allen (Indianapolis Colts), Adonai Mitchell (Jets), and Xavier Legette (Carolina Panthers).
The Chicago Bears will start their third different quarterback in as many weeks, with Tyson Bagent getting the nod over the injured Caleb Williams and recently signed Case Keenum.
Key Analysis
Fantasy managers are urged to act quickly on the waiver wire, as the pool of available replacements is thin. Among the recommended pickups are Braelon Allen of the Jets, who could see increased usage if Hall is unable to play; Mike Washington of the Las Vegas Raiders, a rookie averaging nearly seven yards per carry; Rachaad White of the Commanders, who has a proven track record with over 2,700 career rushing yards; Jaylen Wright of the Dolphins, who may step in for the injured DeVon Achane if healthy; and Zach Charbonnet of the Seahawks, a valuable stash for those who can wait a week or two.
Several normally reliable starters should be benched this week, including New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert, and New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo. Other running backs likely to struggle are Seattle's Jadarian Price against the Chargers and Green Bay's MarShawn Lloyd versus the Buccaneers. Receivers Brian Thomas Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Jameson Williams of the Detroit Lions are also expected to have quiet weeks.
Favorable matchups to exploit include the Minnesota Vikings' passing duo of Kyler Murray and Jordan Addison against Miami's weak defense, Houston Texans running back David Montgomery against Dallas, and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren against Cleveland on Thursday night. Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix and receiver Drake London should also shine against New Orleans, while Arizona Cardinals receiver Michael Wilson is poised for another strong game against the Giants. Tight ends Brock Bowers of the Raiders and Darren Waller of the Panthers are also recommended.
Injury updates continue to be a focus, with all eyes on Justin Jefferson's status. Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield's thumb injury may limit his throwing ability, and Carolina's offense sputtered after receiver Jalen Coker went down. Houston's Nico Collins and the Rams' Puka Nacua could return this week, while Washington may stick with Marcus Mariota at quarterback in London even if Jayden Daniels is available.
For deep leagues, San Francisco 49ers receiver Jordan Watkins is a name to watch. With Mike Evans sidelined by a rib injury, Watkins saw increased opportunities and could continue to produce if given the chance. His college performance at Mississippi, including a 254-yard, five-touchdown game against Arkansas in 2024, suggests he has the talent to contribute.
Finally, the Thursday night pick: Steelers at Browns (+2), with the Steelers favored by 3. For more updates and analysis, visit TwinCities.com/theloop. Kevin Cusick can be heard on the BS Show podcast and followed on X @theloopnow.
Originally reported by yahoo.