As NFL fantasy draft day approaches, keeping an eye on injury risks is crucial for building a winning team. Some players are coming off injuries or facing concerns that could impact their performance. Here’s a closer look at key players you should be cautious about during your draft.
Key Injury Updates
Saquon Barkley (New York Giants) – Status: Recovering from Ankle Injury
- What happened:
- Suffered a high ankle sprain during the 2020 season.
- Underwent surgery but returned in time for the start of the 2021 season.
- Dealt with lingering knee issues in previous seasons, raising concerns.
Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers) – Status: Injury-Prone
- What happened:
- Missed significant time in 2020 and 2021 due to various injuries, including a hamstring and shoulder injury.
- Managed to play a full season last year but has a history of setbacks.
George Kittle (San Francisco 49ers) – Status: Hamstring Concerns
- What happened:
- Endured multiple injuries, including a broken foot in 2020 and knee issues in 2021.
- Recently dealt with hamstring tightness in training camp, raising red flags as the season begins.
Michael Thomas (New Orleans Saints) – Status: Long Road to Recovery
- What happened:
- Underwent ankle surgery in 2020 and missed the entire 2021 season.
- Limited participation in practice, causing uncertainty about his readiness for the upcoming season.
Fantasy Impact
For Saquon Barkley: Monitor his progress closely during training camp. If reports indicate he’s fully recovered, he could be a high-value pick. However, consider the risk and potentially draft a more reliable alternative if he’s still showing signs of struggle.
For Christian McCaffrey: While he has the potential to be a top-tier RB if healthy, be aware of his injury history. You may want to consider selecting a robust backup plan if you draft him, just in case he suffers a setback.
For George Kittle: His hamstring issues could limit his snap count early in the season. Draft him with caution and keep an eye on the practice reports as the season kicks off to determine if he’s ready to go.
- For Michael Thomas: Given his uncertainty, it might be wise to avoid him unless he proves he’s fully back before your draft. Targeting a reliable WR instead could be a safer approach.
As you prepare for your fantasy draft, keeping injury risks in mind can help you make informed decisions that enhance your chances for success this season. Stay updated on reports, and don’t hesitate to adjust your strategy as new information arises.
(Source: NFL Injury Reports)
