September 05, 2023
It's finally time to start thinking starters and backups as the NFL season kicks off in just a few days.
Which recently drafted players on your roster will miss Week 1? There are a lot of fantasy football players with question marks and red crosses next to their names heading into the start of the year.
Here's what we know early this week:
Travis Kelce, TE, Chiefs
This is a big one. Kelce hyper-extended his knee at practice on Tuesday and, per head coach Andy Reid, his status is in question for Thursday night's season-opener against the Lions.
Jaylen Waddle, WR, Dolphins
The Miami wideout has been lightly practicing as he looks to overcome a minor abdomen injury. He is expected to go in Week 1.
Cooper Kupp, WR, Rams
The first-round pick in many drafts looks like he might miss Week 1, as he has been seeing a specialist to help him with his re-aggravated hamstring injury.
Mark Andrews, TE, Ravens
With his injury still currently a mystery — it will eventually be revealed when injury reports come out this week — the star tight end has been missing team drills at practice and working out on the side. Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh says not to "panic" about the injury. This one needs monitoring as Sunday approaches.
Miles Sanders, RB, Panthers
A groin tweak has Carolina being cautious with Sanders, who is expected to suit up in Week 1.
Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers
A groin injury is said to be minor and Evans is expected to play in Week 1.
Breece Hall, RB, Jets
Hall is going to play in Week 1, but his workload is in question following his ACL tear last season.
Terry McLaurin, WR, Commanders
Turf toe, a painful ailment, has held McLaurin out of practice and it seems like he will probably miss a game or two.
George Kittle, TE, 49ers
Kittle has an undisclosed injury as well that will be revealed this week. He is not participating fully in practice.
T.J. Hockenson, TE, Vikings
After signing a mega contract extension, the Vikings made it clear that Hockenson will play in Week 1 despite a lower back issue.
Joe Burrow, QB, Bengals
Nothing is official but the Bengals say their QB is looking on track to start in Week 1 with a calf issue lingering.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seahawks
The rookie wideout is practicing again after wrist surgery and looks like it is possible that he plays in Week 1, but also possible the team errs on the side of caution early in his career.
De'Von Achane, RB, Dolphins
Another rookie skill player, Achane, is back on the field as well after an early shoulder injury. He too looks like a 50/50 call to play in Week 1.
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