Depth charts can be misleading. Every August, before fantasy football drafts, I visit NFL training camps and tend to overreact when I see certain players buried deep in the depth charts. Take the Denver Broncos as an example—many were excited about rookie running back RJ Harvey taking over the backfield, but the team’s depth chart lists him as the fifth-string back, despite him clearly being the No. 2 behind veteran JK Dobbins. We all understand that situations like this can be unclear and talent usually prevails by season’s end. Using this insight, if people shy away from drafting Harvey, savvy players can wait and gain an advantage by picking him later on. The takeaway: don’t panic over depth chart moves and use patience to your advantage in drafts.
Here’s the latest training camp news and updates from around the league that could impact your fantasy football strategy heading into draft season.
Anthony Richardson Injured in Colts Preseason Opener
The Colts played the Ravens in a preseason game Thursday night, losing 24-16. Richardson dislocated his pinky finger in the first quarter but was replaced by Daniel Jones, who threw for 144 yards. Richardson reassured fans post-game that he’s fine and is being evaluated daily, which is promising. As long as he recovers well, the quarterback competition in Indianapolis remains open. We’ll watch how Richardson practices and if he plays more in the next preseason game against Green Bay.
Thursday’s Preseason Highlights
Seahawks vs. Raiders: Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty had limited action with only three carries totaling -1 yards, but rookie wide receiver Tory Horton stood out with three catches for 31 yards and a touchdown. Horton has gained praise in camp and jumped ahead on the depth chart to WR3 behind Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp, making him an intriguing fantasy prospect.
Bengals vs. Eagles: Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase performed well as expected. The surprise was tight end Tanner Hudson, who caught six passes for two touchdowns. Hudson’s role seems to be growing since 2023, making him a potential sleeper TE option. Bengals rookie RB Taj Brooks also showed modest production with 10 carries and one reception for 29 yards, positioning him as a potential backup RB2 behind Chase Brown.
Keenan Allen Returns to the Chargers
The Chargers signed veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, which could complicate things for dynasty managers who invested in Tre Harris. Allen is expected to start opposite Roderick McDowell, pushing Johnston and Harris to compete for the WR3 spot with other receivers. Allen had a solid season last year with the Bears, and if healthy, could be a reliable target for QB Justin Herbert. However, the Chargers also lost offensive lineman Rashawn Slater for the season to a patellar tendon injury, which could impact both the run and pass game.
Josh Allen Weighs in on James Cook’s Contract Situation
Training camps have several top running backs seeking contract extensions. The Rams recently gave Kylen Williams a $33 million, three-year extension, and the Bills may soon do the same with James Cook. Cook posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and led the NFL in rushing touchdowns last year but lacks overwhelming overall numbers. Josh Allen expressed his support for Cook, emphasizing how vital Cook is to the team and hoping for a resolution soon. The longer this drags on, the more uncertain it becomes for fantasy players considering drafting Cook, as his holdout could affect his form early in the season.
Fan Take:
This training camp news is crucial for NFL fans and fantasy managers alike because it highlights the importance of patience and thorough research ahead of the draft season. Player injuries, contract situations, and evolving depth charts can dramatically reshape both team dynamics and fantasy football value, making it vital to stay informed for a competitive edge.
