Fantasy Football Pickups: Daniel Jones Among Top Options to Replace Injured Quarterbacks

As the second week of the NFL season unfolds, fantasy football managers are facing significant challenges due to injuries impacting key players. Among the most notable is Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, who will be sidelined for approximately three months following toe surgery. This injury, along with others affecting quarterbacks across the league, has prompted fantasy managers to seek viable replacements. One of the top options emerging in this scenario is Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts.

The Injury Landscape

The landscape of the NFL has changed dramatically after the second Sunday of the season, with several quarterbacks facing injuries that could affect their availability for upcoming games. Burrow’s absence is particularly concerning as he was the third-highest scoring quarterback in fantasy football last season. His injury not only impacts his team but also fantasy managers who relied on him for their rosters.

In addition to Burrow, New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields is currently in concussion protocol and may miss the upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is dealing with a knee injury that leaves his status uncertain for the game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Furthermore, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy is expected to miss time due to an ankle injury.

With these injuries, fantasy managers are scrambling to find replacements as the season progresses.

Top Fantasy Quarterback Pickups

Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts (21.2% Rostered)

Daniel Jones has emerged as a strong candidate for fantasy managers seeking a quarterback replacement. Following a solid performance in Week 2, where he threw for 316 yards and rushed for a touchdown, Jones is quickly proving his worth. In the upcoming matchup against the Tennessee Titans, he presents a favorable opportunity for those needing a reliable quarterback. Notably, Jones currently ranks second in total fantasy points, just behind Lamar Jackson.

Jake Browning, Cincinnati Bengals (0.0% Rostered)

Browning is a lesser-known option but may see increased playtime as Burrow’s backup. While he struggled with interceptions in his last outing, he managed to score 17.74 fantasy points. With talented receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins at his disposal, Browning could be a viable option for deeper leagues or those in need of a two-QB format.

Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams (33.5% Rostered)

Stafford has been a steady presence for the Rams, and while he hasn’t yet registered a top-10 fantasy week, he remains a solid option. Having thrown for over 300 yards in a previous matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, his experience and skill set make him a worthy streaming option.

Mac Jones, San Francisco 49ers (0.6% Rostered)

Filling in for Brock Purdy, Mac Jones had a commendable performance, throwing for 279 yards and three touchdowns against the New Orleans Saints. With upcoming games against the Arizona Cardinals and the Jacksonville Jaguars, he could be a reliable option for fantasy managers looking for a quarterback.

Other Notable Pickups

Running Backs

– **Bhayshul Tuten, Jacksonville Jaguars (40.0% Rostered)**: Tuten showcased his potential with 15.4 fantasy points in Week 2, making him a valuable addition as he continues to carve out a role in the Jaguars’ offense.

– **Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons (34.1% Rostered)**: Allgeier has proven to be a productive backup, and with the Falcons’ strong rushing attack, he should remain on the fantasy radar.

Wide Receivers

– **Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers (20.3% Rostered)**: With injuries impacting the Packers’ receiving corps, Doubs has the opportunity to step up and contribute significantly.

– **Elic Ayomanor, Tennessee Titans (7.7% Rostered)**: As a rookie, Ayomanor has shown promise and could become a more integral part of the Titans’ offense.

Tight Ends

– **Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints (48.2% Rostered)**: Johnson has been consistent in his production, making him a solid TE1 option.

– **Zach Ertz, Washington Commanders (50.0% Rostered)**: Ertz has found the end zone in both of the first two weeks, making him a popular pick among fantasy managers.

Defense/Special Teams

– **Green Bay Packers (44.8% Rostered)**: The Packers’ defense has been impressive, and with a favorable matchup against the Cleveland Browns, they could be a strong streaming option.

– **Indianapolis Colts (36.6% Rostered)**: Despite a rough start, the Colts’ defense could bounce back against the Titans.

Conclusion

As the NFL season progresses, fantasy football managers must stay vigilant and adaptable, especially in light of the injuries that have impacted several key players. Daniel Jones stands out as a prime candidate for those needing a quarterback replacement, while other players across various positions also present opportunities for strategic pickups. Fantasy football is a weekly game, and staying proactive can significantly enhance a team’s chances of success.

Key Facts

– Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals) is expected to miss three months due to toe surgery.
– Daniel Jones (Indianapolis Colts) scored 20+ fantasy points in both of his first two games.
– Other injured quarterbacks include Justin Fields (New York Jets), Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders), and J.J. McCarthy (Minnesota Vikings).
– Fantasy managers are encouraged to explore options like Jake Browning, Matthew Stafford, and Mac Jones as potential replacements.

Source: www.espn.com