Fantasy News

Baker Mayfield has a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport says the injury, which was known but not its exact extent, was suffered in the Texans game a few weeks ago. This probably explains why Mayfield has been off on some passes in recent games, as an injured shoulder can certainly have a big effect on throwing the ball, even on the opposite side of the throwing arm. Mayfield hasn’t missed any practice time due to the issue and will keep playing through it, but the injury is something to keep an eye one, particularly when he takes hits on game day.

Via: Ian Rapoport 10/7/21 - 09:34 AM ET

The Saints signed Ryquell Armstead to the practice squad.

Tony Jones Jr. (ankle) is on injured reserve, and Armstead is someone to watch that could work his way onto the active roster soon. Armstead would bring an intriguing power element alongside Alvin Kamara if he ever gets the call-up.

10/6/21 - 04:42 PM ET

Dee Eskridge (concussion) ruled out for Week 5.

The rookie has unfortunately had trouble getting cleared to return to action, but hopefully he’s feeling better soon, and the extended time off before Week 6 will help. Freddie Swain will be the No. 3 wideout for Seattle on Thursday night.

10/6/21 - 04:33 PM ET

Chris Carson (neck) is officially questionable for Week 5.

Carson did not practice at all this week, so his status is obviously in doubt. If he ends up suiting up, the veteran needs to be downgraded to low-end RB2/FLEX status with a limited workload likely—though it’s worth noting that he’s had a ton of success versus the Rams throughout his career. Alex Collins would draw the start and be on the RB2 map if Carson is out.

10/6/21 - 04:31 PM ET

Logan Thomas (hamstring) is being placed on injured reserve, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Thomas is dealing with a fairly significant hamstring injury, so he will be out for at least three games. The big tight end should continue to be rostered (ideally placed on IR) in all leagues, and this news will open the door for Curtis Samuel to have a bigger role as he works his way back into the swing of things.

Via: Ian Rapoport 10/6/21 - 02:19 PM ET

Jace Sternberger is signing with Washington.

Sternberger is being signed off the Seattle practice squad, and he could immediately have a role in Washington with Logan Thomas (hamstring) likely out. That said, the Saints are a difficult matchup for Week 5, so Ricky Seals-Jones and Sternberger won’t be highly recommended plays.

10/6/21 - 02:02 PM ET

The Bears have named Justin Fields their starting quarterback.

Matt Nagy just made the announcement, and Fields was able to show enough in a win versus Detroit for the team to permanently go away from an injured Andy Dalton (knee). Hopefully the full transition to the rookie will lead to a more creative game plan in future weeks, as Fields only rushed for nine yards against the Lions, and playing from ahead meant a low-volume passing attack (11 completions). This week will be a bigger challenge against the improved pass rush of the Raiders, and it will be telling if Fields plays well. For now, we’d hold off on calling him a QB1 or even a top-15 option, but he’s worth an add in all redraft leagues because of the potential.

10/6/21 - 12:59 PM ET