Compiled by Justin Sablich (@JustinSablich)
This content first appeared on RotoBaller.com
Catch-up on some of the key fantasy football happenings heading into Sunday’s Week 16 games, including the latest injuries and how they might affect fantasy performances.
Tyron Smith Will Be a Game-Time Decision
Updating a previous report, Dallas Cowboys offensive tackle Tyron Smith (knee) will be a game-time decision in Week 16. He was able to get in a limited practice on Friday, providing some hope that he’ll be able to suit up on Sunday. Smith’s presence boosts the entire Cowboys offense. If he can’t go, Byron Bell would likely take his place.
Signs Pointing Towards Brock Osweiler Starting Against ‘Skins
All signs are pointing towards Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler starting against the Redskins in Week 16 with Paxton Lynch (ankle) not 100 percent healed from his high ankle sprain. Osweiler and Lynch split first-team repetitions at practice this week, but Lynch was still favoring his right ankle. Osweiler is expected to start this weekend, with a good chance that Lynch will start in the season finale against the Chiefs. Head coach Vance Joseph said Lynch’s ankle is “about 90 percent” healed. Osweiler came on in relief of Trevor Siemian (shoulder) last Thursday and went 12-for-17 for 194 yards and two touchdowns. It’s the best he’s looked all year, but it was against a poor opponent. Otherwise, Osweiler has been very mediocre when on the field for Denver, and he’s nothing more than a low-end QB2 against Washington. Expect the Broncos to make an official announcement on the starter on Saturday.
Tevin Coleman, Mohamed Sanu Not On Final Injury Report
Atlanta Falcons running back Tevin Coleman (concussion) and wide receiver Mohamed Sanu (knee) both practiced in full Friday and were taken off the final injury report for Week 16 against the Saints. Coleman will return after a one-game absence. He had nine carries for 32 yards two weeks ago in the win against the Saints. He’ll return to a change-of-pace role behind Devonta Freeman this weekend as the main pass-catching running back. He’ll have RB3/flex value for the fantasy championships. Sanu had his best game against the Saints on Dec. 7, catching six passes for 83 yards and a touchdown. He’s had a decent 2017 but remains more of a WR3/4 for fantasy owners.
Todd Gurley Looks to Continue MVP Pace in Week 16
Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley exploded for four touchdowns against the Seattle Seahawks last week. He now has 1,187 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns this season. He’s put himself on the MVP radar with this incredible bounce-back season. Gurley leads the league with 17 touchdown this season. It doesn’t matter who he faces, expect Gurley to dominate no matter what. The Titans have a solid run defense, but Gurley will find a way to be successful and remains in the RB1 conversation.
Lamar Miller Is A Risky Start Against Pittsburgh
An up-and-down season of Houston Texans running back Lamar Miller has been trending more downwards over the past of couple of games, with back-up Alfred Blue earning more carries in last week’s blowout loss. Miller should regain his share of Houston’s offense this week, but that doesn’t mean he’s primed for a bounce back against a strong Steelers defense. Miller is worth starting in deeper leagues, but anyone in shallower formats is likely to have a more consistent option that they can sub in.
Demaryius Thomas In Line For Plenty Of Targets In Week 16
Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas is set up well for Week 16. Brock Osweiler has shown some solid chemistry with Thomas lately so an Osweiler start is no worry for the wide receiver. Paxton Lynch is the other possibility to start the game and with his mobility hampered, Lynch will have to rely more on his arm. Since the idea of starting Lynch is to see what he could be for the team, it makes sense for the offensive coordinator to make sure Lynch looks for his best weapon often to test and develop their chemistry. With Emmanuel Sanders either limited or missing the game, Thomas looks to be the undisputed top target among the wide receivers and tight ends. Thomas is a WR2 who could put up a big game if everything goes well.
Key Injuries
Out
Questionable
