Fantasy football waiver wire: Injuries heading into Week 3

Unlike in Week 1, we didn’t have too many crippling injuries at the receiver and running back spots. However, some key quarterbacks went down, and that will have a trickle-down effect on those teams’ receivers and tight ends.
If you’re looking for a quick-hit, one-stop spot to go over it all, this is for you. The following is a list of the fantasy-relevant injuries from Week 2, followed by older injuries.

What: Broken collarbone, expected to miss around eight weeks

Analysis: It’ll be Brandon Weeden handling the offense. If you have a Cowboys receiver, this is not good news. It is good news for their running backs, though. The Cowboys could also look to sign a QB, so don’t be aggressive on the wire.

What: Shoulder injury expected to cost him two weeks

Analysis: His rotator cuff surgery following his last game as a San Diego Charger is one of the most famous surgeries of Dr. James Andrews’ career, but now Brees is having problems. Luke McCown is not an option in fantasy leagues and every single Saint loses value, especially receiver Brandin Cooks.

What: Suffered a hamstring injury and did not return

Analysis: He will miss two weeks and Jimmy Clausen is not an option, of course. Matt Forte should still be fine, but Alshon Jeffery is a little risky. He has to get on the field first, though.

What: Broken spirit, day-to-day

Analysis: Just kidding.

What: Needed to be carted off for an ankle injury

Analysis: James Starks has to be picked up everywhere. Lacy is likely going to miss time.

What: Suffered ankle injury, is day-to-day

Analysis: He said he’s alright, so his fantasy owners should expect him to play. If you’re in a deep league, give running back Damien Williams a look.

What: Suffered head injury, held out as a precaution

Analysis: It sounds like he’s fine, so there’s really no need to make a pickup. He was cleared to return and the 49ers just left him out of the game. Mike Davis was his backup.

What: Suffered a rib injury and did not return; expected to miss two games

Analysis: He needed to be carted off, so it could be a problem for him. Devonta Freeman has a big opportunity in front of him and should be added in most leagues. Coleman could miss just 1-2 weeks, so he should remain owned across the board. He was out-snapping Freeman 9-2 before the injury.

What: MCL sprain, likely out close to two months

Analysis: It’s T.J. Yeldon time, especially with the Jags looking good on Sunday.

What: High-ankle sprain

Analysis: Ted Ginn Jr. and Devin Funchess looked better. Give Funchess a look.

What: Suffered a groin injury and did not return

Analysis: We know the drill with Cameron. He’s hurt all the time, so he could miss Week 3. Stay tuned. This would help all the Dolphins receivers, especially Jarvis Landry. Rishard Matthews also gets a bump.

What: Suffered a concussion and could miss Week 3

Analysis: Johnny Football time!

What: Groin injury, could be back soon

Analysis: We might see him for Week 4 and maybe even Week 3. He’s the only Texans back worth owning.

What: Grade 1 PCL sprain, out 2-3 weeks

Analysis: David Johnson looks like the real deal and has to be added everywhere.

What: Unconfirmed reports of turf toe

Analysis: It seems like it is more performance-based here and it doesn’t sound serious, but fantasy owners have to pick up Ronnie Hillman right now. The Broncos will go with the hot-hand approach for the foreseeable future.

What: Broken fifth metatarsal in foot, out 10-12 weeks

Analysis: He might be out until the playoffs, so the Dallas passing attack is in trouble. Terrance Williams benefits, but not much with Weeden behind center.

What: Hamstring strain, out 1-3 weeks

Analysis: Pierre Garcon stepped up a lot and should be owned in most leagues now.

What: Bruised knee, week-to-week

Analysis: He was a go for Monday, but was limited.

What: Hand injury, missed Week 2

Analysis: He could return for Week 3, but can be left on the wire in most leagues until he gets the all-clear.