NFL Player News

Denny Carter’s funding of an operation to get Blankenship another shot at NFL glory appears to be paying off. While Blankenship is only working out with the Bucs on a tryout basis, Rapoport reports the veteran kicker is “finally healthy for the first time in over a year” after he underwent surgery in January to repair a torn muscle in his leg. Even if he doesn’t catch on with the Buccaneers, the Bucs are reportedly one of several teams interested in Blankenship’s services.

On the plus side, Donaldson is no longer listed with a concussion. Audric Estime played well last week and Travis Etienne (hamstring) is practicing now, though. Donaldson could be phased out.

The Chiefs have been limiting Kelce’s participation on Wednesdays in recent weeks. His return to full participation to begin the week is great to see. Kelce, 37, remains a locked-in TE1 at this point in his career. Treat him accordingly against the Falcons.

For the first time since October 4th, the Chiefs listed Rice only with a knee issue. He had been managing a hamstring strain for more than a month, prior to today, and was typically limited early in the week. This is a great sign for his health moving forward. Rice is a WR2 against the Falcons.

Fields may have picked up a neck injury while attempting a Tush Push last week. Backup quarterback injuries are not always relevant, but with Patrick Mahomes (elbow) nursing a small injury, this is notable.

Wright missed last week with the quad issue. Kaytron Allen played through a quad issue of his own, though he only saw one carry. Allen practiced in full today as well. Wright will return to a distant RB2 role for Week 10. He is not on the fantasy radar right now.

Knight sat out in Week 9 against the Seahawks, but he is on track to resume his lead rushing role against the Rams this week. He was seen wearing a yellow non-contact jersey today, and will likely be listed as limited. The Rams’ defense is enjoying improved health and playing well. Knight will likely handle a FLEX-worthy role, but producing a ceiling game against this defense may be unlikely.

Murray is expected to miss more time with the Grade Two hamstring injury. With Kirk Cousins back in Minnesota, Murray’s health doesn’t change much for the offense. He will likely serve as Cousins’ backup once he gets past the hamstring issue.

Jennings missed Week 9 against the Bills with the calf issue and looks likely to sit for at least one more game. Myles Price ran ahead of Tai Felton last week, putting him in line for another round of No. 3 duties in Week 10. He is not on the fantasy radar despite the uptick in snaps.

Groin and back injuries have plagued McDuffie for some time, but it sounds like he has a chance to face the division-rival Cardinals in Week 10. With the Rams’ receiving corps ailing, Los Angeles could turn into an old-school team, featuring a high-volume run game and a lockdown defense.

Both injuries are new for the veteran tight end. He presumably suffered them in the Vikings’ Monday loss to the Bills, though it’s unclear exactly when in the game he got hurt. Gavin Bartholomew would be the next man up, though we doubt he’s the best option off the waiver wire in most fantasy leagues.