The Chiefs’ Offense Struggled Without Him, And His Return Would Be A Massive Boost Not Only For The Team But Also For Fantasy Managers.
As Week 2 of the NFL season approaches, several key injuries are already making an impact on fantasy football rosters. Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and understanding how they affect player availability and performance can make or break a fantasy matchup. Here are the most significant injury updates heading into Week 2 and what they mean for fantasy managers.
Austin Ekeler (RB, Los Angeles Chargers).
Austin Ekeler, a top-tier fantasy running back, is dealing with an ankle injury that has cast doubt on his availability for Week 2. Ekeler was a major contributor in Week 1, both as a rusher and receiver out of the backfield. If he misses time, fantasy managers should look to Joshua Kelley as a potential replacement. Kelley took on a significant workload in Week 1 and would likely see even more touches if Ekeler is sidelined. While he’s not as dynamic as Ekeler, Kelley is a solid flex play and a must-add on waivers.
Fantasy Impact: If Ekeler is ruled out, Kelley becomes a high-priority waiver wire pickup, especially in PPR leagues where the Chargers rely heavily on their running backs in the passing game.
Mark Andrews (TE, Baltimore Ravens).
Mark Andrews, who missed Week 1 with a quadriceps injury, is still questionable for Week 2. Andrews is a key target in the Ravens’ offense, especially in the red zone, and his absence in Week 1 led to increased opportunities for Isaiah Likely. However, Likely didn’t make a huge fantasy impact. If Andrews plays in Week 2, he’s an automatic start, but fantasy managers should have a backup plan in case he’s ruled out again.
Fantasy Impact: If Andrews is a game-time decision, Likely is a risky streaming option but could benefit from volume in deeper leagues. Monitor injury reports leading up to Sunday.
Diontae Johnson (WR, Pittsburgh Steelers).
Diontae Johnson suffered a hamstring injury in Week 1 and is expected to miss multiple weeks. Johnson’s absence opens up opportunities for George Pickens and Allen Robinson in the Steelers’ receiving corps. Pickens is expected to take over as the primary target, while Robinson, a veteran, could see an uptick in targets, especially in the short passing game. This injury also boosts tight end Pat Freiermuth’s value, especially in PPR formats.
Fantasy Impact: Pickens becomes a strong WR2/flex option moving forward, while Freiermuth gets a bump in TE rankings. Allen Robinson could be a deep-league stash but remains a risky play until his role becomes clearer.
Aaron Jones (RB, Green Bay Packers).
Aaron Jones was electric in Week 1, but a hamstring injury has left his Week 2 status in doubt. Jones has a history of soft-tissue injuries, so fantasy managers should be cautious. If Jones misses time, A.J. Dillon will take over as the Packers’ lead back. Dillon didn’t have a big impact in Week 1, but his workload would increase significantly, making him a strong RB2 in Week 2.
Fantasy Impact: Dillon is a must-start if Jones is ruled out. Fantasy managers should monitor practice reports closely, as Jones’ status could change late in the week.
Travis Kelce (TE, Kansas City Chiefs).
Travis Kelce, who missed Week 1 with a knee injury, is trending toward playing in Week 2. The Chiefs’ offense struggled without him, and his return would be a massive boost not only for the team but also for fantasy managers. Even if Kelce isn’t 100%, he remains a top fantasy tight end option due to his red zone usage.
Fantasy Impact: Kelce is an automatic start if active, and his presence lifts the entire Chiefs’ offense, making Patrick Mahomes and other receiving options more valuable.
Injuries will continue to be a factor as the season progresses, but savvy fantasy managers can navigate these challenges by staying informed and adapting their lineups accordingly.
