As fantasy football managers gear up for Week 7 of the 2024 season, staying informed about player injuries and inactive statuses is crucial for optimizing lineups and securing victory. In this comprehensive roundup, we’ll delve into the latest updates on key players across the league, so you can make well-informed decisions and adapt your strategies accordingly.
Early Game Inactives and Injury Impacts
The 9:30 a.m. London game between the New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars features several notable inactive players. Patriots’ running back Rhamondre Stevenson is active despite a foot injury, providing a sigh of relief for managers. However, wide receiver Javon Baker will sit out due to illness. For the Jaguars, running back Travis Etienne Jr. is inactive with a hamstring issue, paving the way for Tank Bigsby and D’Ernest Johnson to handle the backfield duties.
As for the 1 p.m. ET slate, the Buffalo Bills’ running back situation is worth monitoring. While Darrynton Evans is doubtful with a hamstring injury, James Cook is ready to step up and handle the bulk of the carries. In Cleveland, Nick Chubb makes his return from a knee injury, but his workload remains uncertain. With Jerome Ford out, Pierre Strong Jr. and D’Onta Foreman are expected to complement Chubb in the backfield.
The wide receiver position also presents some intriguing storylines. Green Bay’s Dontayvion Wicks is questionable with a shoulder injury, but Christian Watson appears poised to play through an ankle issue. In Houston, the absence of Robert Woods could lead to increased targets for rookie Xavier Hutchinson behind Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell.
Uncertainty Looms in Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Colts’ offense faces significant questions heading into Week 7. Running back Jonathan Taylor has been ruled out with an ankle injury, thrusting Trey Sermon into the starting role. The wide receiver trio of Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and Michael Pittman Jr. are all listed as questionable, creating a conundrum for fantasy managers. While Downs and Pierce seem likely to suit up, Pittman’s status remains murky after missing practice on Friday.
Pivotal Players in the Late Afternoon Games
As we shift our focus to the 4 p.m. ET contests, several key players are worth discussing. In Carolina, running back Chuba Hubbard is expected to handle the bulk of the carries with Jonathon Brooks sidelined. Tight end Tommy Tremble is questionable with a back issue in addition to being in concussion protocol, potentially opening the door for Ja’Tavion Sanders to shine.
According to a team insider, wide receiver Diontae Johnson’s status for Sunday remains uncertain as he deals with rib and hamstring injuries. Even if he plays, the multitude of ailments makes him a risky fantasy start.
In Los Angeles, the Rams eagerly await the potential return of star receiver Cooper Kupp. Listed as questionable with an ankle injury, Kupp’s availability will likely come down to a game-time decision. Should he sit out, Jordan Whittington could be in line for an expanded role after seeing double-digit targets in Kupp’s absence.
Sunday Night Showdown
The Week 7 finale features an enticing matchup between the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers. Jets’ tight end Tyler Conklin is expected to play through a hip injury, but all eyes will undoubtedly be on newly acquired wide receiver Davante Adams. For the Steelers, running back Cordarrelle Patterson has been ruled out, solidifying Jaylen Warren’s role as the primary backup to Najee Harris.
As the Week 7 action approaches, staying attuned to the latest injury updates and inactive reports is essential for fantasy football success. By carefully considering these insights and adjusting your lineups accordingly, you can navigate the challenging terrain of player absences and emerge victorious. Stay focused, trust your instincts, and may the fantasy football gods be in your favor!
