We’ve reached the point in the year where star players are dropping like flies. For a fantasy team at the bottom of the standings, injuries can create a hole big enough to sink an entire roster.
Desperate managers looking to win now will be looking to ship off anything to get better, even if it means punting on their favorite IR stash. In turn, those who have enjoyed early-season success need to pounce. Here are some injured stars you should consider trading for in all fantasy leagues.
TE T.J. Hockenson, Minnesota Vikings
Sam Darnold ($5,900) is legit, giving all Vikings a fantasy boost even if their name isn’t Justin Jefferson ($8,600). Hockenson hasn’t taken the field yet this year after an ACL and MCL tear last season, but his return from the PUP list means we should see him at some point over the next 21 days. Week 7’s home game against the Lions is the most likely return date.
When healthy, Hock is one of the game’s elite tight ends. Despite missing four games this year, he’s third among all tight ends in receptions and receiving yards since 2022. Darnold may not target him as much as Kirk Cousins ($5,600), but even a slightly smaller role in the passing game is valuable. Send a package including a healthier (but inferior) TE to land this proven playmaker.
For more on Hockenson, check out this breakdown on what you should expect when he does return to action.
RB Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns
The Browns are in panic mode following a disastrous 1-3 start. On the bright side, one man who can save fans from watching Deshaun Watson ($5,300) throw the football could be back soon. Jerome Ford ($5,800) has been a capable starter so far, but he’s not a difference-maker like four-time Pro Bowler Chubb. After missing more than a year with ACL and MCL injuries, the veteran running back took part in his first practice on Wednesday.
Chubb remains a long shot for this Sunday’s game against the Commanders, but that’s good news for potential buyers. Anyone that drafted the injured star knew there would be a waiting period, so they’d have to be somewhat desperate to even consider moving on this early. Chubb may not return to being ‘the guy’ from day one, but his immense skill almost guarantees he will be a positive for any fantasy team.
For more on Chubb, here’s what fantasy managers need to know before his comeback.
WRs Cooper Kupp & Puka Nacua, Los Angeles Rams
It’s impossible to choose one Rams wideout to target, so why not both? The pair entered the year with high hopes, but they only played together for three quarters before Nacua left Week 1’s game against the Lions (knee). Kupp then had to leave the following weekend against the Cardinals, this time due to an ankle injury.
It hasn’t been pretty in LA, but this is still an offense led by Matthew Stafford ($5,500) and Sean McVay. When Kupp and Nacua do play, they will demand a boatload of targets. Considering the Rams‘ secondary has looked shaky this season, there should be plenty of pass-friendly game scripts going forward as well.
Right now, it’s still uncertain when either player will return. If I had to guess, Kupp should be back first because the team opted not to place him on IR back in Week 2. As for Nacua, NFL Network’s Ian Rappoport said the second-year man might be out until Week 9. Either way, both should be back well before the fantasy playoffs. If you’re looking to get a bonafide WR1 on the roster, nab one of these Rams.
All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook, lines and odds subject to change.
I am a promoter at DraftKings and am also an avid fan and user (my username is barmy) and may sometimes play on my personal account in the games that I offer advice on. Although I have expressed my personal view on the games and strategies above, they do not necessarily reflect the view(s) of DraftKings and do not constitute a representation that any particular strategy will guarantee success. All customers should use their own skill and judgment in building lineups. I may also deploy different players and strategies than what I recommend above. I am not an employee of DraftKings and do not have access to any non-public information.
