NFL Player News

Ayers started all 16 games as a rookie last year and racked up 88 tackles, but managed just two sacks and seven quarterback pressures. This offseason, he worked on his pass-rush technique with specialist Keith Millard. It sounds like Ayers is going to line up at the defensive end spot on passing downs.

According to ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, the 49ers will sign a kicker to the practice squad as insurance, in case Pineiro cannot play. This is unfortunate. The 49ers’ starting kicker should bank a decent number of extra points, and ideally field goals, against the Dolphins this week.

Black appeared on the 49ers’ injury report yesterday as a limited participant. He was seen practicing today during the portion of practice open to the media, but we do not know if he managed to practice in full. If so, that would be encouraging. The 49ers face the Dolphins’ unimposing defense this weekend. If Black is active, he can be started in FLEX spots, though ideally we get an update on his health beforehand.

It sure seems like Mims aggravated his preexisting foot injury in Week 1 against the Chiefs. Mims does not need to be rostered in 12-team leagues, though his absence does slightly improve the rest of the receiving corps’ outlook.

Even if Harvey is active, he makes for a dicey FLEX start. The second-year running back totaled seven touches in last week’s loss and he logged only two limited practices this week. The Broncos can divvy up the backfield work between RB J.K. Dobbins, Harvey and rookie RB Jonah Coleman if need be.

Mahomes ran the ball seven times for 23 yards and one touchdown last week before practicing in full this week. Both factors are encouraging. The Chiefs’ star quarterback warrants QB1 treatment against the Colts in Week 2.

Rice earned only two targets in Week 1, yet still technically warrants WR2 treatment based on his theoretical role in the offense, along with his past WR1 performances. The Chiefs notably faced the Broncos’ top-tier defense last week and will get a far softer matchup against the Colts in Week 2.

Horton’s return boosts QB Drew Lock’s passing outlook, though Horton is not worth starting in 12-team FLEX spots, operating in the Seahawks WR4 role.

Chiefs CB Mansoor Delane (shoulder) is also questionable to play this week, though Chiefs coach Andy Reid said earlier this week “there’s a pretty good chance” Delane will suit up in Week 1. Jones remained limited all week. Delane logged two full sessions before downgrading to limited on Friday, which could indicate he suffered a setback. We will find out soon enough.

Backup OT Kahlil Benson will start in Simmons’ stead. He did so last week and avoided major mistakes. The Chiefs also ruled out CB Chamarri Conner (knee).

Emmanwori picked up a hip injury mid-week. Hopefully, he is good to go by Sunday. The Seahawks ruled out fellow starting S Ty Okada (hamstring) for this one, but the Seahawks D/ST remains formidable overall.