NFL Preseason Week 1 Takeaways For Fantasy Football: DJ Moore, KC Concepcion & More

The Bills played all of their healthy offensive starters for two drives against the Panthers' starting defense.

Quarterback

• Josh Allen: Looked sharp, completing 6 of 8 passes for 111 yards (13.9 YPA), but was under pressure on 56% of dropbacks. Allen worked from under center on 71% of his snaps and utilized play action on 56%. QBs get fewer designed runs from under center, but teams often go under center early in the game, and camp reports haven't indicated an increase. Takeaway: Monitoring under center work, but holding steady as the QB1.

Running Back

• James Cook: Notched a 79% snap share with the starters and handled all five rushing attempts, gaining 21 yards. The coaching staff has hinted at more passing-down work for Cook—something he excelled at in college—and he notched a high-end 67% route share. But Ty Johnson, the rotational receiving RB, was out. Takeaway: Cook is holding steady, but if he pops a 60%+ route share, he could have a monster season.
   
• Ray Davis: Davis played 21% of the snaps with the starters, but didn't have a touch. Takeaway: If something happened to Cook, Davis would be the primary beneficiary, but Johnson could take some passing-down work. Davis remains a strong late-round handcuff option in deeper leagues.
   
• Ben VanSumeren: The FB played 14% of snaps. The multi-time practice squad player is fighting for a roster spot. Takeaway: If he makes the team, it saps some upside from Dalton Kincaid. If he is cut, the Bills could shift their 21- and 22-personnel to 12- and 13-personnel, which would help Kincaid.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• DJ Moore: Moore popped for 61 receiving yards, securing 3 of 4 targets (67%) on two drives with Allen, before a lower-leg/ankle injury struck, which trimmed one play off the second drive. Early reports are that Moore is fine, but we will have to monitor. Several people smarter than me noted that the mechanism of injury appeared to be a potential high-ankle injury. Moore finished with a 67% route participation, but it would have been 78% with one more play. The Bills have a history of rotating their WRs, and that played out in this small sample. Most good WR1s challenge for a 90% route share, and Moore needs it in a run-first offense. Takeaway: Monitor health and playing time, but holding steady as a high-end WR3 with WR2 upside.
   
• Khalil Shakir: Remained in his typical role with a 67% route share and a 25% target share. Takeaway: Holding steady as a low-end WR5. 
   
• Keon Coleman: Training camp reports cite Josh Palmer as the leading WR3 option, but Coleman played more on both of the two drives with the starters, finishing with a 67% route participation rate vs. 56% for Palmer. Palmer played in 21, but less in 11. Both exited the game after the third drive. Takeaway: TBD. Coleman is battling for the WR3 role, but it could just be a gross rotation.
   
• Skyler Bell: Did not play (lower-body injury).
   
• Dalton Kincaid: Played 100% of snaps in 12-personnel, but shared time in 11 and left the field in 21. Kincaid is not built for 21, making FB VanSumeren's final roster status a key development to watch. Without him, the team could use more 12 and 13, which helps Kincaid. The former Round 1 NFL pick tied with Dawson Knox for routes (56%) but trailed in snaps (71% vs 57%). Takeaway: As of today, Kincaid's role looks like the brutal one we have come to know. But the VanSumeren thing is worth monitoring. 

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: C Connor McGovern (lower body).
• Starters Played: 4 of 5 played one drive; 3 of 5 played two. 

Cleveland Browns: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Browns played the majority of their offensive starters against the Bears' backup defenders.

Quarterback

• DeShaun Watson: Watson played the first half, mounting six drives with 31 snaps. He dropped back to pass 18 times, completing 11 of 15 throws for 126 yards with an 8.6 YPA against Chicago's backups. His stat line looked okay, but Watson missed an easy throw and took a strip sack. Takeaway: TBD. The competition remains open. Sanders gets his turn next week, according to the coaching staff.
   
• Shedeur Sanders: Played the second half with the backups. He will start next week.

Running Back

• Quinshon Judkins: Judkins played the first two drives before calling it a night. He handled an 80% snap share, bogarted 100% of the attempts, and notched a 67% route participation rate. He wasn't able to get much going behind the starting line against backup defenders with nine yards on four totes. Dylan Sampson took the LDD work. Camp reports have pointed to a larger route share for Judkins, which aligns with this data. But it is still a very small sample, and Sampson is a good receiving back. In a troublesome offense, more passing-down work is key to offsetting bad game scripts. Takeaway: Holding steady as a low-end RB2 who should see plenty of carries. Monitoring pass downs.
   
• Dylan Sampson: Sampson played 22% of the snaps over the first two drives with Judkins still in the contest, but didn't have an attempt. He remained in the game for two drives after Judkins, handling 50% of the attempts, finishing with six yards on four carries. The second-year back had an 89% route share after Judkins left and saw two targets (29%), popping one of his two receptions for 43 yards. Takeaway: Holding steady. Sampson is the RB2 and vying for the passing-down role in Cleveland.
   
• Michael Burton: The FB did not play. 

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• KC Concepcion: The Round 1 NFL Draft pick saw a 67% route participation rate over two drives with Jerry Jeudy in the game. He operated primarily from the slot (86%) and was left involved in 12 packages (25% routes). Concepcion remained in the game through the end of the half with Watson and led the team with a 36% target share. He collected 3 of 4 targets, working underneath the coverage with a 5.0-yard aDOT. He was in motion on 13% of routes. He flashed his YAC ability against backup Bears defenders and demonstrated his versatility with a 14-yard rushing TD and 31 punt return yards. Concepcion will have to battle for routes and could get pigeonholed to a Jayden Reed-type role early. Takeaway: Concepcion is a playmaker worth betting on given his ADP of 120+ on ESPN, Yahoo, and Sleeper. He is a WR4 with upside.
   
• Denzel Boston: Boston played 100% of the snaps over the first two drives with Jeudy in the game. This corroborates camp reports that the Round 2 NFL pick is locked into a full-time role. Boston finished the night with a 13% target share, playing second fiddle to Concepcion. He secured 1 of 2 targets for 15 yards. Takeaway: Boston is in line for a lot of playing time. The question is if he can overcome talent questions to boom in fantasy. Holding steady. Boston is a WR5 option.
   
• Jerry Jeudy: Jeudy played 100% of the pass plays over the first two drives.
   
• Harold Fannin Jr: Fannin played 89% of the snaps and secured a 100% route share over the first two drives with the starting offensive line. However, the team did not have FB Michael Burton, which is the personnel grouping Todd Monken likes, and it could be that they prefer a blocking TE. But camp reports have noted the 21 grouping as one where he keeps Fannin on the field and puts him in motion. Takeaway: Holding steady. Fannin remains a mid-range TE1. 

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None.
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 played two drives. Rookie Spencer Fano played six.

Chicago Bears: Fantasy Takeaways from Preseason Week 1

The Bears didn't play their starters. No takeaways.

Minnesota Vikings: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Vikings played most of their starting offense for one drive against the Giants' backups.

Quarterback

• Kyler Murray: Played the first drive with the starting offensive line. He went 2-for-3 for 10 yards. He aligned under center 67% of snaps and used play action once. Takeaway: Holding steady. Murray remains a low-end QB1 with upside we can access later in drafts.

Running Back

• Aaron Jones: Camp rumblings have pointed to a reduced role for the 31-year-old RB. But he played 56% of the first-drive snaps vs. 44% for Mason. Both backs handled half the carries with three each. Jones finished with 27 yards, including an 18-yard burst in wide zone. Both notched a 33% route share. But one-drive samples can be tricky for RBs, especially. Teams often want to see the top-two options behind the starting offensive line. For now, I am leaning slightly more into the camp reports than this one drive. Takeaway: Holding steady, but the antennae are up.
   
• Jordan Mason: Mason has been climbing draft boards based on reports that he will handle the bulk of the rushing workload in 2026. He posted 17 yards on three carries, with a long of 15 up the middle. That wasn't the case in this one-drive sample, but that could be misleading (see Jones above). At this time, I am putting more weight into the camp reports (larger sample) and like Mason's TD upside behind a healthy Vikings offensive line with a potential QB upgrade. Takeaway: Holding steady but monitoring.
   
• Demond Claiborne: The rookie back entered the game on the second drive and played into the third quarter ahead of Zavier Scott. Claiborne rushed 12 times for 12 yards. This preseason utilization aligns with camp reports that Claiborne is the RB3. Takeaway: Claiborne is a late-round dart throw in deep leagues. This could be a good offense, and the depth chart is fragile.  
   
• Max Bredeson: The rookie FB played 33% of the snaps with the starters. Bredeson was brought in to fortify the Vikings' run game out of 21-personnel with C.J. Ham gone.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Justin Jefferson: Did not play.
   
• Jordan Addison: Addison played 100% of snaps and led the team with one target, which he snared for eight yards. Takeaway: Remains a WR4/5 fantasy option.
   
• Jauan Jennings: With Jefferson resting, Tai Felton played 100% of the snaps. Jennings only played in 11-personnel (small sample alert), playing one drive, while Felton remained in the game for two more drives. Takeaway: TBD.
   
• T.J. Hockenson: Hockenson played 56% of the snaps with a 67% route participation. Josh Oliver outsnapped him with the Vikings running the ball on 67% of plays on the first drive. Oliver played 100% of the 21-personnel snaps. This matches camp reports, which have Oliver as the base-downs TE in run-blocking formations. Hockenson was a fragile bet in a full-time role; if he suffers route volatility, it further clouds his 2026 campaign. Takeaway: DOWNGRADE.

New York Giants: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Giants played their healthy starters. The Vikings' first-team defense played much of the first quarter. 

Quarterback

• Jaxson Dart: Dart played two drives and missed two snaps after getting destroyed on a sack with Tyrone Tracy in on pass pro. He finished 4-for-6 for 26 yards, including a scramble-drill TD to rookie Malachi Fields. He was pressured a ridiculous 67% of snaps and did not have a designed run. Takeaway: Holding steady as a low-end QB1 with upside.

Running Back

• Cam Skattebo: Skattebo got the first snap at RB, but played only 31% of the snaps with the starters. The coaching staff indicated it was planned. Their goal is not to overwork his ankle. Skattebo has been the lead early-down back, taking most of the first-team reps. The question is whether they will have Tracy or Devin Singletary siphon receiving-down work. Takeaway: Skattebo is holding steady as an RB2 with upside, but we will continue to monitor in the coming weeks.
   
• Tyrone Tracy: Played 44% of the snaps with the first-team offense. Tracy is the RB2 behind Skattebo, but Singletary could be involved if injury strikes Skattebo. Takeaway: Tracy remains an RB4 option, but Singletary could cap his contingency upside.
   
• Devin Singletary: Was the RB3, playing 25% of snaps with the first team. Remained in the game after the second drive when Skattebo and Tracy left the game with the starters.
   
• Patrick Ricard: Played 31% of snaps with the first team. The Giants will lean into 21-personnel this year.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Malik Nabers: Did not play (ACL).
   
• Malachi Fields: Was the WR4 over the first two drives, but played a snap ahead of Austin. The rookie's 57% route share with the starters wasn't good, but he did secure his lone target in the end zone for a TD. This could be a committee WR2 role behind Nabers, but the depth chart is weak. Takeaway: Fields is a late-round flyer in deep leagues.
   
• Darius Slayton: Played the most routes (86%) with Nabers out.
   
• Darnell Mooney: Was the WR2 with the starters, notching a 71% route share.
   
• Calvin Austin III: Was the WR3 with the starters (71% routes).
   
• Odell Beckham Jr: Was the WR5. Played into the early fourth quarter. 
   
• Isaiah Likely: Likely notched an 86% route share with the starters and led the team with two targets (86%). But he only played 38% of the snaps, operating primarily out of the slot (67%). Likely did not play in 21- or 12-personnel. The 21 snaps went to blocking TE Chris Manhertz. And in 12, the team went with a combination of Manhertz and Theo Johnson. This has been my concern with Likely throughout the preseason. Camp reports have him as a leading target, which he was again in this game. But a snap rate that low rarely results in an 80%+ route share over the course of a season—that would make the Giants a highly predictable offense. Takeaway: I have been lower than consensus on Likely, so he is holding steady. He remains a mid-range TE2 but offers mid-range TE1 upside with more snaps.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: 2 of 5 did not play. T Andrew Thomas; C John Michael Schmitz Jr.
• Starters Played: 3 of 5 starters in for two drives. Rookie G Francis Mauigoa remained in two more series.

Los Angeles Rams: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Rams rested their starters and many backups.

Quarterback

• Ty Simpson: Operated as the QB2 behind Stetson Bennett. He threw for 190 yards and two TDs, going 21 of 25 (84%) with 7.6 yards per attempt.

Running Back

• Jarquez Hunter: Operated as the RB1 with Kyren Williams and Blake Corum out. Hunter handled 72% of the snaps, 75% of the attempts, and had a 53% route participation.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Jordan Whittington: Rested with the starters.
   
• Konata Mumpfield: Rested with the starters.
   
• Terrance Ferguson | Colby Parkinson | Tyler Higbee: Rested.
   
• Max Klare: Klare played seven possessions, leading the team with a 40% target share. The rookie TE secured 7 of 8 targets for 37 yards. Takeaway: Klare is the TE4 for the Rams at the moment.

Kansas City Chiefs: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Chiefs rested multiple key starters, but the offensive line played the first series. Their backups played against the Rams' backup defenders. 

Quarterback

• Justin Fields: Played two drives as the starter with Mahomes out. He completed 4 of 4 passes for 41 yards with a 10.3 YPA. He also scrambled twice for nine yards. Takeaway: Fields is the QB2 in KC and would offer low-end QB1 upside if Mahomes missed time.

Running Back

• Kenneth Walker III: Played one snap before taking the night off (see notes on Smith below).
   
• Brashard Smith: Played 90% of the snaps with Fields. He handled 100% of the attempts with an 83% route participation rate. The Year 2 RB came back into the game on the fifth and sixth drives. Smith has been a camp standout, moving all over the formation. He has been praised for improving his pass-down chops. If Smith is the RB2, it could dampen Walker's receiving upside. Smith's best fit is as a receiving back. But he could just be a gadget option, so I am taking this data point in but not overreacting with Walker. Takeaway: Smith makes the backfield murky for the other RBs.
   
• Emmett Johnson: Johnson has recently been trending up in camp, mixing in as the RB2 more often. But in this game, Johnson did not play with Fields or the starting offensive line. He entered the game on the third drive and played into the fourth quarter, rushing 12 times for 59 yards. He also had three targets (9%), which he converted into three catches for 10 yards. Johnson is still getting his feet under him, but working ahead of Emari Demercado was a decent step. But Smith makes things less clean. Takeaway: Johnson is still my favorite handcuff for Walker, but it could be a committee. 

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Tyquan Thornton: Played 100% of snaps on the first drive before resting. Takeaway: Thornton is holding onto the WR3 deep-threat role, but the grip might not be firm. This could be a rotation.
   
• Jalen Royals: Royals was the WR1 with the starters, playing 83% and earning one target. He operated underneath the coverage with a 7.5-yard aDOR (average depth of route), playing from the slot on 22% of reps. Takeaway: Royals is battling for the WR3/4/5 role.
   
• Cyrus Allen: Allen started the game and had a 67% route participation rate with Fields. The rookie camp sensation played into the third quarter and led the team with a 24% target share. He caught 2 of 5 passes for 20 yards and worked downfield with a 13.0 aDOT. The Round 5 NFL pick operated from the slot on 53% of routes (80% with the starters). Allen is pushing for playing time and offers a diverse skill set vs. Thornton and Royals. Takeaway: The 5'11", 180-pound WR has a chance to be the Chiefs' WR3 and might offer the most upside. He is a late-round WR5/6 upside pick in deep leagues.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: 1 of 5. G Trey Smith (hip).
• Starters Played: 4 of 5 starters played one drive.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Jaguars rested their starters.

Running Back

• Bhayshul Tuten | Chris Rodriguez Jr. | LeQuint Allen: Did not play.

New Orleans Saints: Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

The Saints rested all of their starters.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Devaughn Vele: Did not play.
   
• Bryce Lance: Did not play (injury).
   
• Barion Brown: Played in the first half and returned for two snaps in the fourth quarter. The rookie had a 10% target share, catching all four targets with an aDOT of 8.0. He collected 53 yards.
   
• Juwan Johnson: Did not play.
   
• Oscar Delp: Played into the third quarter. He finished with a 15% target share, catching 3 of 6 looks. He finished the night with 10 yards and a TD.

Philadelphia Eagles: Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

The Eagles rested most starters.

Quarterback

• Andy Dalton: Started over Tanner McKee and handled the first three drives.

Running Back

• Tank Bigsby: Played all three drives with Dalton behind the second-string offensive line. Bigsby handled 100% of the snaps. This matches camp reports that have him as the clear-cut RB2 behind Saquon Barkley. Takeaway: Holding steady as one of the best handcuffs in fantasy football.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Eli Stowers: Played into the third quarter. He had a 59% route participation rate and a 19% target share with Goedert resting. Grant Calcaterra played ahead of him and left the game sooner. Stowers has had a rough camp, and his early-season playing time is currently in jeopardy. Takeaway: Stowers could start the season well down the depth chart.

Baltimore Ravens: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Ravens rested their starters.

Running Back

• Derrick Henry | Justice Hill: Did not play.
• Rasheen Ali: Did not play (injury).
• Adam Randall: Played the entire game, finishing with 46 yards on 12 attempts.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Ja'Kobi Lane | Ravens: Played 100% of the snaps on the first four drives. He secured all three targets for 38 yards, including a TD. Lane has been a camp standout, and now that is carrying over into the games. Takeaway: Lane is the favorite to win the WR3 role and could challenge Rashod Bateman for the WR2 role in time. He is a late-round dart throw.
   
• Devontez Walker | Ravens: Walker didn't leave the field over the first four drives and corralled all three of his targets for 31 yards. Takeaway: Walker is ahead of Elijah Sarratt for the WR4 role.
   
• Elijah Sarratt | Ravens: Sarratt entered the game in the second quarter and played into the final frame. He led the team with a 35% TPRR, catching 6 of 7 targets for 66 yards. Takeaway: Sarratt was a great producer in college, but is currently trying to fight his way up the depth chart.
   
• Josh Cuevas & Matthew Hibner: Cuevas and Hibner rotated over the first three quarters. Cuevas led with a 57% route share vs 34% for Hibner. But the snap shares were closer (58% vs 51%).

Offensive Line

• Note: The Ravens have a three-way battle to replace Tyler Linderbaum at center.
  • Danny Pinter: Started.
  • Jovaughn Gwyn: Entered in the second quarter.
  • Ethan Pocic: Played in the fourth quarter.

Dallas Cowboys: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Cowboys rested their starters.

Running Back

• Jaydon Blue: Blue started and played the first three drives. The second-year RB accounted for 77% of the snaps and 73% of the attempts. He also notched a 71% route participation rate. This role matches camp reports of Blue as the RB2. Takeaway: Blue is a late-round handcuff option.
   
• Phil Mafah: Mafah rotated in on the second drive and had a 24% snap share while Blue remained in the game. He handled 27% of the attempts. After four drives, he retired to the sideline. This also aligns with training camp reports, with Mafah ahead of Malik Davis for the RB3 role. Takeaway: Mafah is the favorite for the RB3 role in Dallas.

Seattle Seahawks: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Seahawks rested starters.

Running Back

• Jadarian Price: Did not play (injury/soreness).
   
• Emanuel Wilson: Did not play (leg injury).
   
• George Holani: With all the other RBs injured, Holani shouldered most of the workload in the first half with a 72% snap share.

Takeaways From Friday's Week 1 NFL Preseason Games

Denver Broncos: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Broncos played most of their healthy offensive starters outside of Bo Nix. The Falcons played their starting unit for the first series or two. 

Quarterback

• Bo Nix: Did not play.
• Jarrett Stidham: Started and played the first half. He operated from under center on 58% of snaps and used 25% play action.

Running Back

• J.K. Dobbins: Did not play (soft tissue).
   
• RJ Harvey: Played 79% of the snaps on the first two series, handling 56% of the attempts and notching an 80% route participation rate. He exited the game along with Courtland Sutton. Takeaway: None. This matches camp notes on Harvey as the RB2 in a committee.
   
• Jonah Coleman: Coleman played 21% of snaps over the first two drives, handling 22% of the attempts. He remained in the game for the third series with the starting offensive linemen, handling all eight snaps. Coleman was my RB2 in the Rookie Super Model ahead of the NFL Draft before falling to Round 4. At 5'8" and 220 pounds, he plays with great contact balance and short-area burst. He might be a better natural runner than Harvey. Coleman is the RB3 and likely offers contingent value if Dobbins or Harvey miss time. If Dobbins is out, Coleman could see a larger role boost than Harvey. Takeaway: Coleman remains an RB5/6 candidate. He doesn't have a clear-cut path to all the work, but is the best fit to play Dobbins' role and would also get a boost if Harvey missed time.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Jaylen Waddle: Did not play (leg).
   
• Courtland Sutton: Played 100% of routes the first two drives, securing three targets for 60 yards. 
   
• Pat Bryant: Was on the field for 100% of the routes for the first two drives and left the game with Sutton. Caught one target for 15 yards. Takeaway: Bryant is a deep-league stash as the WR3 for the Broncos.
   
• Marvin Mims Jr: Did not play.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: C Luke Wattenberg (shoulder)
• Starters Played: 4 of 5 played three series.

Atlanta Falcons: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Falcons played many of their starters over the first two series against starters for the Broncos.

Quarterback

• Tua Tagovailoa: Played two drives, completing 3 of 5 passes for 22 yards against an elite Broncos starting defense. Takeaway: None. This offense is still working out the kinks in their new scheme, and this was a tough matchup.

Running Back

• Bijan Robinson: rested.
   
• Brian Robinson Jr: Played 100% of the snaps with the first team. Takeaway: Robinson remains one of the clear-cut handcuffs, worthy of a late-round stash.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Drake London: Played two snaps on the first drive before retiring for the night.
   
• Jahan Dotson: Posted a 100% route share in two drives with the starters, but wasn't targeted. Takeaway: Nope.
   
• Olamide Zaccheaus: Had an 80% route share with the starters, operating primarily from the slot (67%). Takeaway: Nope.
   
• Zachariah Branch: Was on the field for 20% of pass plays—playing in 12-personnel. This matches camp reporting, which currently lists him as the WR4. He was a limited player in college, so this could stick, but the depth chart ahead of him is weak, leaving room for growth. Takeaway: Branch remains the only worthwhile WR target outside of London, but is only a late-round flyer in deep leagues.
   
• Kyle Pitts: Accounted for all 22 passing yards, earning 3 targets on 5 routes with Tagovailoa. Pitts operated underneath the coverage with a 1.2-yard aDOT, something he has done more lately in his career. That has opened up more targets, and he is a good fit with Tagovailoa. Takeaway: I remain bullish on Pitts as a mid-range TE1 who is a value in drafts—I have him the highest in the Fantasy Life ranks.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: T Jawaan Taylor
• Starters Played: 4 of 5 played the first two series. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Buccaneers rested their starters.

Running Back

• Sean Tucker: Played while Irving and Gainwell rested.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Ted Hurst: Played the first three drives with Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin and Jalen McMillan out. He led the team with a 40% target share, securing 2 of 6 targets on an 11.2 aDOT. He operated primarily from a wide alignment, but kicked inside on 24% of snaps. He finished the night with two receptions for 19 yards. Takeaway: Hurst remains a late-round dart-throw in deep leagues and could see more playing early in the year if Egbuka's toe remains an issue.

New York Jets: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Jets played the majority of their starting offense minus Geno Smith and Kenyon Sadiq (hernia surgery setback). The Bucs did not play their starting defense.

Quarterback

• Cade Klubnik: The rookie got the start with Smith resting, playing two series, including one with the starting offensive line. He finished 5 of 7 for 56 yards passing. He worked ahead of Bailey Zappe, whom he is battling for the QB2 role. Takeaway: Klubnik might have a slight edge on QB2 but will see if they flip this in the coming weeks. Sometimes teams rotate playing time as they battle for pecking order.

Running Back

• Breece Hall: Played 91% of the snaps and handled 100% of the attempts with the starting offensive line on the first drive. He notched a 71% route share. Hall is clearly the RB1, as we already knew, but we shouldn't overreact to these extremely high shares on a single drive. Takeaway: None. Holding steady as a fantasy RB2 option.
   
• Braelon Allen: Allen is battling Isaiah Davis for the RB2 role, but Davis missed last night's game due to a knee injury. Allen played 9% of the snaps with the starters and stayed in for the next two drives. He finished the night with 44 yards, including a 31-yard TD run against backup Bucs defenders. Takeaway: Allen has the edge right now as the RB2, but Davis could hamper pass-down work once healthy. Allen is a handcuff option late in drafts.
   
• Isaiah Davis: Did not play (knee).

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Garrett Wilson: Notched a 100% route participation with the starters and led the team with three targets (43%), including an end zone look. Wilson played outside every rep. Takeaway: Garret Wilson is still good.
   
• Adonai Mitchell: Was the WR2, handling 100% of the snaps. He wasn't targeted, but the playing time matches camp reports that have Mitchell ahead of rookie Omar Cooper in 2-WR sets. Mitchell seems like a near-lock to start the year as the WR2 for the Jets. Whether he can keep Cooper confined to the slot for the entire season is another question. Takeaway: Mitchell is moving up the ranks. He is a WR5 option.
   
• Omar Cooper Jr: Did not play on the first drive with Wilson and Mitchell. Isaiah Williams got the nod for slot reps that series, and retired with the starters after that. Camp reports have Cooper and Williams battling for the starting slot role. Cooper stepped onto the field on the second drive and played through halftime. He led the team with a 30% target share, securing 2 of 3 targets for 31 yards. He operated from the slot on 38% of routes. Takeaway: We don't want to overreact with a Round 1 WR, but it could take some time for Cooper to get going. But he remains a bet I want to make as a WR5/6 in drafts with the long view in mind.
   
• Mason Taylor: Taylor posted an 86% route participation rate with a 33% target share in one drive with the starters before getting the rest of the night off. The 2025 Round 2 NFL pick finished the game with two grabs for 19 yards. Taylor is the favorite to play the Y TE role with Sadiq as the moveable chess piece. Takeaway: I remain skeptical of Taylor because Sadiq will cut into his playing time, but he is a late-round dart throw in 20-round TE premium formats.
   
• Kenyon Sadiq: Did not play. Sadiq is a supreme athlete but continues to miss valuable reps, which could hinder his playing time early in the year. Takeaway: Sadiq remains an upside talent bet I want to be in on, but it could be a slow burn.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None.
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 played the first drive.

Miami Dolphins: Preseason Fantasy Takeaways from Week 1

The Dolphins played their starting offense for the first drive. They played against the Commanders' backup defenders.

Quarterback

• Malik Willis: Willis played the first drive, completing 4 of 5 passes for 43 yards (8.6 YPA) against Commanders backups. He scrambled twice for nine yards on seven dropbacks. He was not sacked, but was under pressure on 14% of dropbacks. He operated from under center on 71% of snaps, and 43% of his attempts utilized play action. The Bobby Slowik offense is theoretically a great match for Willis, emphasizing the things he did well with the Packers. He is a near-lock for 100+ rushing attempts, which makes him appealing in fantasy. The question is the ceiling in an offense needing playmaking options to step up in the WR room. Takeaway: Willis remains an intriguing mid-range QB2 with low-end QB1 upside.

Running Back

• De'Von Achane: Played 100% of the snaps, rushing for 39 yards on seven attempts. That included two attempts inside the five-yard line, where he scored. He ran a route on every dropback, but wasn't targeted in this one. Achane is in for a massive workload this season. The question is whether the offense can be good enough to unlock a TD ceiling—especially if Willis is a factor on designed runs inside the five. Takeaway: Achane remains a strong Round 2 pick in fantasy drafts, but goes in Round 1 on several sites.
   
• Jaylen Wright: Wright was the next man up, playing the majority of snaps (75%) on the second drive, with Ollie Gordon mixing in (25%). But Wright remained in the game through the fourth drive while Gordon retired to the sideline after the second series. Camp reports have Wright as the favorite for the RB2 role with Gordon as the challenger. Takeaway: Wright has the edge for now. He is only draftable in extremely deep formats.
   
• Ollie Gordon II: The RB3 and the top challenger to Wright.
   
• DJ Herman: The Dolphins utilized the FB on 41% of their first two drives. I expect a heavy-personnel team with Slowik remaining committed even in trailing scripts. It really is their best path to an efficient offense in 2026 given the roster makeup. But Herman reportedly is not a lock to make the roster as an undrafted rookie out of San Diego State, so it is something we will monitor. Takeaway: If there is a FB on the roster, it could mean more 2-WR sets.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Caleb Douglas: The team's Round 3 draft pick has been gaining steam based on camp practice reports, and he backed it up against the Commanders' backups. Douglas played 100% of the snaps and secured 1 of 2 targets for 28 yards. He was a deep threat in college, which matched his 26.0-yard aDOT in this small sample. He finished the night with 52 air yards on one drive with the starters. Douglas got the rest of the night off after the first series. Takeaway: Douglas is the No. 1 option to target in drafts from the Dolphins. He is a late-round WR6 option. He is up 30 spots in my ranks over the last week.
   
• Malik Washington: Washington played 86% of the snaps and secured a 100% route participation rate. He snared all three of his targets, finishing the night with 15 yards. Washington worked primarily underneath, with a 4.0 aDOT, forming a Ying-Yang duo with Douglas. Notably, Washington played most of his reps from the outside and stayed on the field in 2-WR sets. Takeaway: Washington is a late-round option in deep PPR leagues.
   
• Greg Dulcich: Dulcich has become a late-round favorite as a TE sleeper this preseason. He is likely to be the team's top pass-catching option, but he is not a great blocker in a scheme that highly values that attribute. Thus, the team spent a Round 3 pick on Will Kacmarek. And it was Kacmarek posting the higher snap share of 86% with the starters—the two TEs tied with a 57% route share. Dulcich did not play in 21 personnel, with Kacmarek getting 100% of the snaps—making the roster bubble decision on FB DJ Herman important to his outlook. Takeaway: Dulcich, like other similar receiving archetypes such as Mike Gesicki, could be squeezed for playing time in this style scheme. He is a low-end TE2.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 played the first drive. G Jonah Savaiinaea and G Kadyn Proctor played an extra series.

Washington Commanders: Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

The Commanders rested almost all of their starters.

Quarterback

• Marcus Mariota: Started but only played two snaps before leaving the game with a leg injury.

Running Back

• Kaytron Allen: Started with Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White and Jeremy McNichols (quad) resting. He played into the fourth quarter. Allen ran the ball 23 times for 85 yards and a TD. Takeaway: Allen is battling for a roster spot.
   
• Jerome Ford: Was the second back into the game and only played five snaps before resting. Takeaway: Ford left the field the earliest, which could indicate that the Commanders see him as the RB4.
   
• Robert Henry Jr: Entered the game in the second quarter and split work with Allen. Henry ran for 75 yards on 12 attempts, and punched in one score. Takeaway: Henry is battling for a roster spot.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Dyami Brown: Started and played 100% of the snaps over the first two drives before calling it a night. Camp reports indicate a committee approach for the WRs behind Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs. In this game, Brown got the nod. But we can see things like this flip in the next game, with coaches giving other players looks. Takeaway: Too early to tell. 
   
• Treylon Burks: Started on the outside opposite of Brown.
   
• Luke McCaffrey: Was the starting slot WR. Kicked outside with the second team, with Jaylin Lane stepping into the slot.

Takeaways From Thursday's Week 1 NFL Preseason Games

Tennessee Titans: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Titans played their starters for three drives (16 snaps). They played balanced, passing the ball 56% of plays. The offensive line looked good, but the 49ers rested their starting defense.

Quarterback

• Cam Ward: Ward played three drives, finishing the night with 57 passing yards. He completed 5 of 8 passes (62.5%) with 7.1 yards per attempt (YPA). Ward also scrambled once for two yards. Takeaway: Holding steady as a low-end QB2 for now.

Running Back

• Tony Pollard: Pollard played the first three drives, handling 50% of the attempts for 22 yards—including a five-yard TD—on a 43% snap share against the 49ers backups. Camp reports have listed Pollard as the No. 1 back, which contrasts with this data. But in preseason games, it is not unusual for the staff to give both players playing time behind the starting offensive line. Takeaway: TBD, but Pollard doesn't have much breathing room. He is already a FADE for me in my 2026 RB Strategy.
   
• Tyjae Spears: Spears split first-team reps with Pollard, splitting attempts (50%) and leading the way in the passing game with a 54% route participation and a 9% target share. He accumulated 35 yards on four attempts. There is a chance Spears turns this into more of a 1A/1B committee, but camp reports lean toward Pollard. Takeaway: Spears is an explosive pass-catching back, which keeps him on the fantasy radar as an RB5/6 option in later rounds.
   
• Nicholas Singleton: The rookie RB entered the game with the second-team and currently slots in as the RB3. He played into the third quarter and rotated with Michael Carter, who took the two-minute offense. Takeaway: Singleton could be a player to watch on the waiver wire. He could see more run as the season progresses.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Wan'Dale Robinson: Robinson led the team with an 85% route participation rate, playing 100% of snaps in 11 personnel. He notched a team-leading 36% target share, including looks on play action. He finished the night with two receptions and 19 yards on four targets. He played underneath the coverage with a 2.8 aDOT and a 94% slot rate. Takeaway: Robinson remains a borderline WR4 with WR3 upside.
   
• Carnell Tate: Tate played 90% of the pass plays on the first drive but rotated over the next two drives, finishing with a 69% route participation. He has dominated first-team reps in camp. The No. 4 overall NFL Draft pick was second on the team in targets (27%), led the way in air yards (63%) and saw the lone end-zone target. He played 75% of snaps in 11- and 60% in 12-personnel. Takeaway: Tate offers the most upside in the Titans' passing attack as a Round 6 pick despite having zero production in this game.
   
• Calvin Ridley: Ridley only played one, registering an 80% route share before resting. He pulled down one reception for 18 yards on one target. It is worth noting that camp buzz has Elic Ayomanor pushing for reps and could force Ridley aside. Takeaway: Ridley is a FADE in re-draft formats.
   
• Elic Ayomanor: Ayomanor has had a strong camp. He stepped in with the starters on the second and third drives, posting a 100% route participation rate. Takeaway: Nothing for now, but Ayomanor could push Ridley for playing time in 2026.
   
• Gunnar Helm: Helm split reps with Daniel Bellinger, with both players notching a 60%+ snap share. Helm had the edge in routes (62% vs 46%), but Bellinger still saw some work in 11-groupings. Camp reports have Helm as the clear No. 1, especially in 11, so no reason to freak out, but there is a disconnect between Week 1 in the preseason and practice right now. Takeaway: Helm remains a late-round TE option in deeper leagues, but the playing time is something to monitor. 

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: N/A
• Starters Played: 4 of 5 played all three drives with the starters; RG - Fernando Carmona Jr. (battling for starting spot) played all three drives

Indianapolis Colts: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Colts rested all of their starters. RT Jalen Travis played one drive.

Quarterback

• Anthony Richardson: Started and played the first half against the Patriots backups, scoring 13.1 fantasy points. Richardson completed 11 of 14 passes for 145 yards (10.4 YPA).

Running Back

• Seth McGowan: McGowan started with Jonathan Taylor resting and DJ Giddens dealing with a hamstring injury. He played 100% of the snaps on the first three drives before resting. Recent camp reports point toward McGowan as the potential handcuff to Taylor. Takeaway: McGowan is a late-round RB option in deep leagues.

New England Patriots: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The Patriots rested their starters, but some key backups got playing time.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Eli Raridon: Raridon is the TE2 on the Patriots depth chart and got the start, leading the team with a 22% target share on a 100% snap share over the first five drives. The Round 3 NFL Draft pick snared one of his four targets against the Colts' backup defenders. Takeaway: Raridon is a name to remember on the waiver wire and is a late-round dart throw in deep TE-premium formats.
   
• Kayshon Boutte: Boutte played 70% of snaps in the first quarter before calling it a night, which aligns with reports from camp. He appears to be the WR4 behind A.J. Brown,  Romeo Doubs and DeMario Douglas, who didn't play. Boutte played outside with Efton Chism taking slot reps. Takeaway: FADE in managed leagues.

San Francisco 49ers: Week 1 Preseason Takeaways

The 49ers rested almost all of their starters and many of the backups, like Mac Jones. RBs Kaelon Black and Jordan James didn't play due to injuries.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• De'Zhaun Stribling: Stribling operated as the WR1 with all other starters resting or dealing with injuries. He played all three drives with the starting QB, Kurtis Rourke, before calling it a night. Stribling dominated Titans starting defenders with a 53% target share, earning eight looks on 15 routes (94% route participation). Stribling worked primarily beneath the coverage with a 7.0 aDOT and notched seven grabs for 76 yards. He played from the slot 60% of snaps. The Round 2 NFL Draft pick played 100% of snaps in 11 personnel but rotated in 12 personnel (56%). Takeaway: Stribling has a shot to climb the 49ers' depth chart to WR2 or WR3 status—he is a target in Round 10+ in drafts.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: 4 of 5
• Starters Played: LG - Robert Jones

Arizona Cardinals: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Cardinals played most of their starters for one drive against the Raiders' starting defense.

Quarterback

• Jacoby Brissett: Brissett played the first drive, marching the field in 10 plays capped by a TD pass to Marvin Harrison Jr. The veteran signal-caller went 5-for-5 for 44 yards against the Raiders' first-string defense. Takeaway: Brissett is a mid-range QB2 option in managed leagues but carries more risk in best-ball, where a late-season QB switch could impact playoff rosters.
   
• Carson Beck: Did not play due to a rib injury. Gardner Minshew took the second-team reps.

Running Back

• Jeremiyah Love: The No. 3 overall NFL Draft pick started and played the first three drives. Over the first two drives, with Tyler Allgeier playing, Love handled 71% of the snaps and 64% of the attempts. He also clearly led the way with a 70% route share. He was targeted three times (20%) on 11 routes. Love compiled 10.2 fantasy points on the three possessions, with most of his damage coming against the backups, but you could see his burst and elusiveness—Love is not your ordinary RB. Camp reports have this as a potential committee, but Love could be too hard to keep off the field. And historically, most picks like Love have dominated touches in Year 1. Takeaway: Love remains a strong pick in early Round 3 of fantasy drafts—a price we usually don't get on this type of draft pick.
   
• Tyler Allgeier: Allgeier played the first two drives, playing 29% of the snaps and handling 36% of attempts. Allgeier is the RB2 behind Love, but James Conner did not play. Takeaway: Allgeier remains a Tier 2 handcuff option late in drafts.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Marvin Harrison Jr: Harrison played every snap on the first drive and notched a 100% route participation rate. He had one target (20%) for a TD. He aligned wide on every play and was not used on motion. His seven-yard TD reception came off of play action. Takeaway: Holding steady.
   
• Michael Wilson: Wilson notched a 100% route participation rate but left the field on run plays out of 11- and 12-personnel (Kendrick Bourne and Jalen Brooks). This might be nothing, but it is worth monitoring. Wilson played from the slot on 33% of snaps and was in motion on 17% of snaps, matching camp reports as the "move" player in the offense. Wilson corralled two targets (40%) for 23 yards. Takeaway: Holding steady. 
   
• Kendrick Bourne: Operated as the WR3.
   
• Trey McBride: Did not play.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None.
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 played the first drive.

Las Vegas Raiders: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Raiders fielded most of their starters for one drive against Arizona's starting defense.

Quarterback

• Kirk Cousins: Cousins played 10 snaps, going 5-for-5 for 50 yards (8.3 YPA) and a TD to Michael Mayer. Takeaway: None. Cousins is currently slated to start Week 1.
   
• Fernando Mendoza: The No. 1 NFL pick entered the game after Cousins, playing five drives. He completed 63% of his passes for 97 yards (6.1), including a tight-window dot. Mendoza also threw a TD to Jack Bech in tight space. Takeaway: None. Mendoza should eventually start, but Cousins is penciled in as the starter for Week 1.

Running Back

• Ashton Jeanty: Jeanty played 70% of the snaps and handled 75% of the attempts on the first drive before resting. Takeaway: None. Jeanty is locked in as the RB1 for the Raiders.
   
• Mike Washington Jr: Washington was the RB2 on the first drive, playing 30% of the snaps and spelling Jeanty on 25% of attempts. This matches camp reports. Washington remained in the game as the lead back for four more drives, rushing for 61 yards, including a long of 53 yards. Takeaway: Washington is a late-round handcuff option.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Tre Tucker: Played 83% of routes and led the team in targets. Rested after the first drive. Takeaway: None.
   
• Jalen Nailor: Played 83% of routes, playing exclusively on the outside. Rested after the first drive. Takeaway: None.
   
• Jack Bech: Played 83% of routes with the starters, including 60% of reps from the slot. He was also in motion 20% of routes. That matches camp reports with Bech as the starting slot option. When Bowers is playing, we could see less 11-personnel, with a tandem of Bowers and Michael Mayer in 12-personnel. But Bech doesn't have high-end talent in front of him. If he secured snaps in heavy personnel, he could add value. He has the size at 6'1", 214 pounds to be a red zone threat—where he scored later in the game on a pass from Mendoza.  Takeaway: Bech is worth monitoring as a late-round sleeper in deep formats or a waiver wire option.
   
• Brock Bowers: Played one snap and rested.
   
• Michael Mayer: With Bowers out, Mayer was a good player in college, ranking as the No. 7 TE all-time in the Rookie Super Model with an 82 rating. His 92 Production Rating ranks fourth all-time. However, he now resides behind Bowers. But the Raiders could use more 12-personnel—there is a legit chance Mayer is the second-best receiving option on the team. Takeaway: Mayer is a buy-low option in dynasty—he is a free agent after this season.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None.
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 played the first drive.

Los Angeles Chargers: Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

The Chargers rested their starters.

Running Back

• Kimani Vidal: Vidal played while Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell rested. He played the first two drives before exiting. Takeaway: None. Vidal would likely have a role if Hampton went down, but is waiver-wire material.
• Keaton Mitchell: Rested with the starters. Camp reports have Mitchell and Vidal splitting reps after Hampton, with a slight edge to Mitchell, which this supports. Takeaway: Mitchell remains a strong handcuff/contengency upside play later in drafts.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Tre Harris: The 2025 Round 2 NFL pick rested with the starters, which corroborates camp reports that he is the WR3. Takeaway: Harris is a late-round WR stash in deeper leagues.
   
• Oronde Gadsden: Charlie Kolar and David Njoku rested while Gadsden played for three drives. Njoku is an older veteran, so I am not reading too much into this. But Gadsden is likely in for a route reduction with Mike McDaniel preferring better blocking options out of 21-personnel. Takeaway: Gadsden remains a mid-range TE2 option. 

Houston Texans: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Texans played their starting offensive line for one drive, but rested starters and key backups at skill positions. Per our own Zain Dhanani, they played at a faster pace.

Running Back

• Woody Marks: Rested with David Montgomery. Takeaway: Holding steady as the RB2.
• Jawhar Jordan: Did not play (hip flexor strain).

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Jayden Higgins: Rested with starters. Camp reports have him as the No. 2. Takeaway: Holding steady as a WR4/5 target in drafts.
• Jaylin Noel: Rested with starters. Camp reports have him as the starting slot.
• Tank Dell: Did not play (strict rehab program).
• Xavier Hutchinson: Played. Good news for Higgins and Noel.

Green Bay Packers: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Packers played their starters for one drive against the Steelers' backup defenders.

Quarterback

• Jordan Love: Played one drive, completing 3-for-5 passes for 18 yards. Takeaway: None.

Running Back

• Josh Jacobs: Did not play (groin injury).
   
• MarShawn Lloyd: Camp reports have Lloyd as the No. 2 option in Green Bay, and the Week 1 preseason utilization matched. Lloyd played 100% of the snaps with the first-team offense. He remained in the drive for the second drive before calling it a night. Takeaway: Lloyd is a premier handcuff option as the top option behind Jacobs, who is still under investigation by the NFL. Lloyd has moved up 13 spots in my RB ranks over the last week.
   
• Pierre Strong Jr: Entered the game after Jacobs.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

It's a small sample of one drive, and Luke Musgrave (neck) didn't play, but the Packers played 11-personnel for the entire first drive, keeping their top three WRs on the field. While we don't want to overreact to this sample, it might be their best personnel grouping given their depth chart—at least until their TE room is healthy, which is TBD. They could bring in a veteran.

• Christian Watson: Watson played 89% of snaps. He is locked into a potential massive ceiling season, y'all. Takeaway: Watson is a HIGH-PRIORITY target in Rounds 5-6 of drafts. He is my WR24 and offers legit top-12 boom potential.
   
• Jayden Reed: Reed notched a 100% route share but did not play in 12-personnel, playing 78% of snaps. He operated from the slot 100% of snaps. Reed should still see a career-high in playing time. Takeaway: Holding steady as a value as the WR47 off the board in consensus ADP across ESPN, Sleeper, Yahoo, and RTSports—that is his floor.
   
• Matthew Golden: Golden played 100% of the snaps but was not targeted. His Rookie Super Model prospect profile and Year 1 performance put him on shaky ground, but camp reports indicate Golden is shining and poised to play a full-time role. The playing time reports match Week 1 of the preseason. Takeaway: Golden remains a solid WR5 target later in drafts.
   
• Tucker Kraft: Did not play (ACL rehab plan).

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: LG Aaron Banks (knee); RT Zach Bako-Bewele (knee).
• Starters Played: 3 of 5 starters played the first drive. 2 of 5 remained in longer.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The Steelers rested their offensive starters except the offensive line, which played two drives.

Running Back

• Travis Homer: Started the game over Kaleb Johnson.
   
• Kaleb Johnson: Didn't enter the game until the sixth drive behind *checks notes* Lew Nichols. He is on the roster bubble.
   
• Eli Hedenriech: Didn't play until the seventh drive. Camp reports have him as a longshot to make the roster. 
   

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Roman Wilson: Played the first half and had a 6% target share. Reports from camp have Wilson leading the team in slot reps. Takeaway: Waiver wire watch in deep leagues.
   
• Germie Bernard: Played the first half and led the team with a whopping 31% target share. He operated primarily underneath (4.8-yard aDOT) and led the team in slot reps at 43%. He was in motion on 11% of routes. Takeaway: Bernard has moved down the ranks recently due to the news around Wilson, but still might be the better player. This situation is TBD.
   
• Darnell Washington: Washington played the first two drives with Pat Freiermuth and led the team with a 74% snap share vs. 47% for Freiermuth. Washington also ran more routes (62% vs 54%). And the Steelers dropped back to pass on 68% of plays over those two drives—this wasn't just a run-blocking thing. The reports from camp paint a picture with Freiermuth as the top receiving option, but the freshly minted Washington could put a significant dent in that role. Takeaway: Washington could end up being the top TE for the Steelers this year. Slight bump up the ranks.
   
• Pat Freiermuth: See Washington above. Takeaway: Slight DOWNGRADE for Freiermuth.

Offensive Line

• Starters Rested: None.
• Starters Played: 5 of 5 for two drives.

Cincinnati Bengals: Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Takeaways

The Bengals offense played two drives against the Lions' backups, working on new elements of their offense. With Joe Burrow on the field, they operated from under center on 54% of plays and utilized play action on 57% of dropbacks. This all matches the reporting we have heard from camp. They were much more balanced, dropping back only 54% of plays.

Historically, more play from under center has meant one thing: more rushing and less passing. But it hasn't led to improvements in passing game efficiency, even with play action. I have already brought the Bengals' pass rate down based on camp reports, but they still rank No. 1 in our projection model. 

The challenge with moving things too much: even if they try this, they could revert to their old offense if things aren't going well early. And that could easily happen given their personnel and the historical league trends from under center.

If they do remain committed, the passing game could take a hit due to lower volume. It would mean more rushing opportunities for the backs.

Quarterback

• Joe Burrow: Played the first two drives. He completed 5 of 6 passes for 39 yards and took one sack. The new offense is a work in progress. Takeaway: Nothing at this point, but if the Bengals run more, it could hurt Burrow in 2026.

Running Back

• Chase Brown: Brown notched high-end snap and attempt shares (69% and 83%) over the first two drives with Burrow in the game. Samaje Perine snuck in to take some of the route participation and short-yardage work—things he did last season. Ultimately, this is fine news for Brown, but to unlock his high-end ceiling, we want the high-leverage opportunities inside the five-yard line, which SDD Snaps correlate strongly with. Takeaway: Brown remains a target in Round 2 of fantasy drafts.
   
• Samaje Perine: Remains the clear-cut RB2 behind Brown. Takeaway: Last-round handcuff option in the last round in deep leagues.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Ja'Marr Chase: He is Ja'Marr Chase. No update here.
• Tee Higgins: He is Tee Higgins. No update.
• Andrei Iosivas: Remains the WR3, which matches camp reports.
• Erick All: Did not play (precautionary).

Detroit Lions: Week 1 Preseason Fantasy Takeaways

The majority of the Lions starters rested.

Wide Receiver and Tight End

• Isaac TeSlaa: TeSlaa played while most starters rested. The Year 2 WR has reportedly struggled at camp. Takeaway: Remains a player I am avoiding in late rounds of drafts.

Glossary

• Snaps: Percentage of snaps the player played with the starters.
• Rush Att: Percentage of rushing attempts with the starters.
• Routes: Route participation with the starters.
• Targets: Target share with the starters.
• TPRR: Targets per route run with the starters.
• SDD Snaps: Percentage of short-down-and-distance (short yardage) with starters.
• LDD Snaps: Percentage of long-down-and-distance snaps (obvious passing downs) with starters.
• Two-Minute Snaps: Percentage of snaps in the two-minute offense with the starters.
• Catchable: Percentage of targets deemed catchable with the starting QB per PFF.
• aDOT: Average depth of target with the starters.
• Air Yards: Percentage of the team's air yards with the starters.
• 3rd/4th Down Targets: Percentage of targets on 3rd and 4th down with the starters.
• 11P: Percentage of snaps played in 11 personnel (1RB, 3WR, 1TE) with the starters.
• 12P: Percentage of snaps played in 12 personnel (1RB, 2WR, 2TE) with the starters.
• 21P: Percentage of snaps played in 21 personnel (2RB, 2WR, 1TE) with the starters.
• Slot Snaps: Percentage of snaps from the slot