Getting the inside scoop of what NFL teams are planning on a week to week basis can give a fantasy team a slight advantage over their opponent during a matchup. Sometimes a slight edge is needed to secure a win. This week’s NFL transaction breakdown gives a peek at players being picked up and let go with the season starting in less than two weeks, helping fantasy owners make more confident decisions on who to select to round out their teams.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals released Tristain Vizcaino, cementing Randy Bullock as the placekicker on field goals. Going 27 for 31 last season and on a struggling Bengals team, he may be a diamond in the rough for some fantasy owners who miss out on the top-tiered kickers. Bullock should be able to be snagged with a pick in the very latest rounds in drafts.
Chicago Bears
Last week, the Chicago Bears signed Cairos Santos to battle Eddie Pineiro for field goal duties. Pineiro, who converted field goal opportunities at a less than ideal 82%, won the Chicago kicking competition last offseason, which was sparked by the infamous “double-doink.” After an unimpressive 2019 season, the kicking situation for the Bears still seems to be up in the air. Stay away from both until a winner has been declared, or just avoid Chicago kickers, in general, this season.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The release of Leonard Fournette came as a shock, not because nobody saw it coming, but due to the timing on the move. With less than a couple weeks until the start of the season, Fournette leaves Jacksonville to find a new home. The problem is that a new home could take a minute to find. Most teams have their running back situations settled upon, minus a few who could be dealing with injuries. Now Jacksonville looks to its remaining backs in what we can only assume will be the committee approach until one stands as the clear choice. Ryquell Armstead, the backup to Fournette last season, offers a similar playing style. The new addition of Chris Thompson from Washington brings a pass-catching versatility option to the Jaguar backfield. Either way, these two will look to split time accompanying Gardner Minshew in the offense.
Minnesota Vikings
Adding Yannick Ngakoue (Yan-nick In-gone-ku-way) in what can only be a total fire sale from the Jaguars this offseason is a considerable move to bolster their defense. Giving the Vikings another pass rusher, taking a similar approach as the Chicago Bears have done, to wreak havoc in the backfield and put the opposing QB under duress. Look for stock to go up with the Minnesota defense in fantasy drafts.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have placed standout receiver Tyrell Williams on IR for the season. The rest of the receivers will move up the depth chart, which is a great sign for Henry Ruggs. Gruden has made it apparent that Ruggs will be a starter for the Raiders this season. With the injury to Williams, look for Ruggs to get more of a role in the offense. Draft him.
Seattle Seahawks
The team has brought back Paul Richardson, who began his career for the Seahawks back in 2014. With his familiarity of the system, Richardson should find a nice role in the receiving game. Good flex option with some decent upside.
