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Jets RB Braelon Allen out with 'pretty serious' knee injury

Wed Oct 1 3:34pm ET
Field Level Media

New York Jets running back Braelon Allen is not available this week against the Dallas Cowboys with what head coach Aaron Glenn described as a "pretty serious" knee injury.

Allen was injured on a kickoff return in the second quarter Monday night at Miami in the Jets' 27-21 loss to the Dolphins. He was on crutches at the team facility on Wednesday and reports indicated he has a sprained MCL.

Glenn said the Jets (0-4) haven't made an official move -- or decision -- on how to designate Allen's roster status but he's unlikely to play at all in October.

"We'll see exactly where he's going to be when it comes to designate whether he will be on the IR or not," Glenn said.

Isaiah Davis has been used as the third-down back. but his role might expand. Allen returned kickoffs and was the Jets' preferred short-yardage back behind starter Breece Hall.

With mobile quarterback Justin Fields contributing, the Jets are No. 3 in the NFL in rushing this season, averaging 144.5 yards per game and 5.2 yards per carry.

New York is at home to play the Dallas Cowboys (1-2-1) after losing back-to-back games in Florida, 29-27 at Tampa Bay and the six-point loss to the Dolphins.

The Cowboys allowed 123.3 rushing yards per game in the first month of the season.

Allen, who lost a fumble at the 1 at Miami in Week 4, has 18 carries for 76 yards this season. He's averaging 25 yards on four kickoff returns.

Davis has five carries for 27 yards and three receptions for 24 yards.

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Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 5

Player Notes
Chuba Hubbard Oct 1 4:20pm ET
Chuba Hubbard

According to Steve Reed of The Associated Press, Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (calf) is viewed as day-to-day. However, Reed noted that Hubbard still needs more time to recover from this injury. The top running back was sidestepping during Wendedya's initial practice session. While he was able to play out the past weekend during their loss to the Patriots, Hubbard's workload was limited due to this injury. In this contest, the 26-year-old logged just 10 attempts for 49 yards and caught all three of his targets for 20 yards. Fantasy managers should continue to keep a close eye on his status during practice this week, as he could be in danger of missing their contest against the Dolphins if he faces a setback. If he were to miss time, Rico Dowdle would take the lead role.

From RotoBaller

Jayden Daniels Oct 1 3:50pm ET
Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (knee) expects to be back in action on Sunday when the Commanders travel to Los Angeles to face the Chargers. When asked about his recovery, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year said, "I plan on going out there Sunday." Daniels has missed the last two contests due to a knee sprain. In his absence, veteran Marcus Mariota has taken over QB1 duties in D.C. While he led the Commanders to victory in Week 3, he fell short against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 4. During this two-game stretch, Mariota has tossed three passing scores and added one with his legs. If Daniels can return to action, fantasy managers should view him as a high-end QB1 in all leagues, despite potentially beginning without his top wideout, Terry McLaurin, who is sidelined with a quadriceps injury.

From RotoBaller

CeeDee Lamb Oct 1 3:40pm ET
CeeDee Lamb

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (ankle) was not seen wearing a boot during Wednesday's practice. This is an excellent sign for his status, as he was unable to play in Week 4 in their contest against the Green Bay Packers due to a high ankle sprain. While Lamb will face an uphill battle to be ready in time to face the New York Jets this weekend, he appears to be trending in the right direction. Fantasy managers should continue to keep a close eye on his stats during practice this week, as it will likely provide clarity on his potential availability. This past weekend, George Pickens operated as the team's primary wideout, catching eight of his 11 targets for 134 yards and two scores. While Lamb remains sidelined, Jalen Tolbert figures to serve as the WR2 and carry FLEX appeal in deeper formats.

From RotoBaller

Michael Carter Oct 1 3:30pm ET
Michael Carter

According to Theo Mackie of AZCentral Sports, Cardinals running back Michael Carter was seen taking first-team reps during Wednesday's practice. This is important to note as the team placed starting running back Trey Benson (knee) on the injured reserve on Wednesday. Carter figures to split work with Emari Demercado. However, seeing that Carter is already taking first-team reps, the coaching staff may favor him as their primary back. The 26-year-old logged just one carry during their Week 4 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, while Demercado was given a slightly more prominent role. Fantasy managers should continue to closely monitor this backfield leading up to their contest against the Tennessee Titans this weekend. Fantasy managers should look to add Carter to their roster in all standard formats ahead of their Week 5 matchup.

From RotoBaller

Emari Demercado Oct 1 3:13pm ET
Emari Demercado

Dynasty | Cardinals running back Trey Benson will miss 4-6 weeks after undergoing surgery on his meniscus. Dynasty Analysis: The hits just keep coming for the Cardinals, who already lost James Conner for the season. It's a blow in dynasty circles as well as Benson was poised to take over for the Cardinals long-term. The Cardinals will likely turn to a committee featuring Emari Demercado and Michael Carter as they attempt to stay afloat without Benson. It will be interesting to see what the workload looks like for him when he comes back but he's obviously missed his first chance at taking over as a workhorse with Conner out for the year.

From Dynasty League Fantasy

Deebo Samuel Oct 1 3:00pm ET
Deebo Samuel

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (undisclosed) missed Wednesday's practice, adding to the team's injury woes with Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) also sidelined. If both top receivers are unavailable, the Commanders will likely lean heavily on Zach Ertz, while backups Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane, and Chris Moore could see increased target shares. Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has been dealing with his own injuries, practiced fully on Wednesday for the first time since Week 2, providing some relief to the offense. Fantasy managers should monitor Washington's injury report closely, as the availability of Samuel and McLaurin will directly impact target distribution and opportunities for both starters and secondary receivers. With multiple pieces of the passing game in flux, planning for potential boom-or-bust performances is crucial heading into Week 5.

From RotoBaller

Chuba Hubbard Oct 1 3:00pm ET
Chuba Hubbard

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (calf) did not practice Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Week 5 against the Miami Dolphins. Hubbard has had a strong start to the season, totaling 53 carries for 217 yards and adding 13 receptions for 94 yards and two touchdowns. His absence could create an opportunity for Rico Dowdle to see increased touches, making him a handcuff to target in fantasy leagues, especially in deeper formats. The matchup is favorable for the Panthers' ground game, as Miami ranks 30th in rushing defense, allowing 158 yards per game. Fantasy managers should monitor Hubbard's practice status late in the week, as Dowdle's potential for an expanded role makes him a valuable speculative option if Hubbard is forced to miss the game.

From RotoBaller

Terry McLaurin Oct 1 2:50pm ET
Terry McLaurin

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) remained sidelined at Wednesday's practice after missing the team's Week 4 loss to the Falcons, putting his Week 5 status against the Chargers in doubt. If McLaurin is unable to suit up, the Commanders are likely to continue leaning on Deebo Samuel as the focal point of the passing attack. Through three games this season, McLaurin has posted just 10 receptions for 149 yards, leaving fantasy managers frustrated with his slow start. His availability will likely come down to late-week evaluations, so managers should closely monitor Washington's injury reports for clarity heading into Sunday.

From RotoBaller

Tyrone Tracy Jr. Oct 1 2:40pm ET
Tyrone Tracy Jr.

New York Giants running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (shoulder) did not practice Wednesday after already missing Week 4 following a separated shoulder in his matchup with the Chiefs in Week 3. The second-year back has managed just 68 rushing yards on 22 carries this season, and his absence has opened the door for Cam Skattebo to seize feature back duties in New York. Even when healthy, Tracy is unlikely to carve out more than a change-of-pace role in the Giants' offense, leaving his fantasy outlook extremely limited. Until there's a clear path to consistent touches, Tracy can be safely dropped in all formats, with his only current value coming as a speculative handcuff to Skattebo.

From RotoBaller

Emari Demercado Oct 1 2:40pm ET
Emari Demercado

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado is set to handle feature-back duties following the loss of Trey Benson (knee) and James Conner (Achilles). While his 2025 numbers are modest so far--just four carries for eight yards and two receptions for 13 yards--Demercado flashed last season with 223 yards on only 24 attempts, showing the ability to pick up chunk plays when given steady work. With Arizona's backfield depth depleted, the "next man up" approach leaves Demercado as the clear option to shoulder the load, and Kyler Murray's mobility should create additional running lanes to aid his efficiency. Fantasy managers should consider Demercado a must-add in all formats, as he projects for both volume and opportunity in an offense desperate for balance.

From RotoBaller

Jake Browning Oct 1 2:40pm ET
Jake Browning

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor doubled down on his support for quarterback Jake Browning on Wednesday, stating, "I've got a ton of confidence in Jake. I'm unwavering in that." The Bengals have dropped back-to-back games, scoring just 13 total points in the process, fueling speculation about a possible trade to address their offensive struggles. However, Taylor's comments suggest the team will remain committed to Browning for now. The 29-year-old quarterback owns a 67.9 passer rating this season, while star receiver Ja'Marr Chase has been limited to 73 yards on 10 catches over the last two weeks. With the Bengals built to win now, Browning's leash may be short if the offensive woes continue, but for the moment, the organization appears determined to stay the course with him at the helm.

From RotoBaller

Trey Benson Oct 1 2:30pm ET
Trey Benson

Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson (knee) is expected to miss four-to-six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his meniscus, another setback for a backfield already reeling from the season-ending loss of James Conner (foot). Benson had been working into a steady role with 29 carries for 160 yards and 13 receptions for 64 yards through four games, but his absence now opens the door for Emari Demercado to take on feature-back responsibilities. Demercado should be added in all fantasy formats as he projects to see the bulk of opportunities in both the running and passing game, especially with Arizona lacking proven depth behind him. While Benson showed flashes of efficiency early, his return timetable places him on injured reserve and makes him droppable unless you have an IR spot available.

From RotoBaller

Jaylen Waddle Oct 1 2:10pm ET
Jaylen Waddle

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle is set to take on a true WR1 role with Tyreek Hill (knee) out for the season. Head coach Mike McDaniel emphasized that the team has always viewed Waddle as a top receiver, but Hill's absence ensures a heavier workload moving forward. Through four games, Waddle has recorded 17 receptions for 185 yards and two touchdowns, and his speed and route running make him the most dangerous option left in Miami's passing game. The Dolphins have struggled offensively this season, ranking just 26th overall and 22nd in passing, but Waddle's expanded role gives him a chance to spark the unit. Fantasy managers should view him as a must-start in Week 5 against Carolina and a strong candidate for weekly WR1 production going forward.

From RotoBaller

Tyjae Spears Oct 1 1:50pm ET
Tyjae Spears

Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan said he's hoping to get running back Tyjae Spears (ankle) "involved as quickly as possible," according to Jim Wyatt of TennesseeTitans.com. Spears is still on Injured Reserve and has missed the first four games of the season, but the Titans opened his 21-day practice window this week, and he's eligible to be activated to the 53-man active roster at any time. For now, it's unclear if Spears has a legitimate chance to play in Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals. When he's back, Spears will be a nice change-of-pace to starter Tony Pollard in Tennessee's backfield. Even if Spears does not make his 2025 debut this weekend, fantasy managers in need of some RB depth, especially in point-per-reception formats, should consider adding Spears off the waiver wire if he's available. In his two years in the NFL, Spears has 765 rushing yards and six rushing TDs on 184 attempts while catching 82 passes for 609 yards and two more touchdowns.

From RotoBaller

Braelon Allen Oct 1 1:40pm ET
Braelon Allen

New York Jets running back Braelon Allen (knee) has a "pretty serious knee injury," according to head coach Aaron Glenn. However, the Jets are not unveiling their Injured Reserve plans just yet, and Allen is seeking a second opinion. Allen took a shot to his knee during a kickoff return in Monday night's loss to the Miami Dolphins and is going to miss some time. If he is forced to go on IR, Allen would have to miss at least four games. The 21-year-old reportedly suffered an MCL sprain. With Allen injured, Breece Hall could see even more touches in New York's backfield, with Isaiah Davis stepping into a backup role. Davis is worth a waiver-wire pickup for those looking for more RB depth or if you have Hall rostered. Through the first four weeks in 2025, Allen has 18 carries for 76 yards and a touchdown while catching only two passes for 17 yards through the air.

From RotoBaller

Bucky Irving Oct 1 1:10pm ET
Bucky Irving

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers still aren't ruling out running back Bucky Irving (foot) for Week 5 on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, and head coach Todd Bowles said the team will wait to see if he's out of his walking boot by Friday, according to Greg Auman of FOX Sports. Quarterback Baker Mayfield framed it as "if" Irving can't play against Seattle. The 23-year-old is day-to-day right now, but fantasy managers can't be very optimistic with Irving in a walking boot and on crutches on Wednesday. He almost certainly won't practice and most likely will not be available on Sunday as he battles a foot sprain. Irving apparently has avoided a long-term injury, but don't expect to see him active this weekend. If Irving doesn't play against the Seahawks, Rachaad White will be a plug-and-play RB2 in fantasy, with Sean Tucker also seeing a boost in his role in Tampa's backfield.

From RotoBaller

Trey Benson Oct 1 1:10pm ET
Trey Benson

Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson (knee) is being placed on Injured Reserve on Wednesday with a knee injury that he suffered in last Thursday night's loss to the Seattle Seahawks, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Cardinals are expecting Benson to play again this year, but he will now be forced to miss at least the next four games. It's another major blow to Arizona's backfield after they already lost James Conner (Achilles) for the season. The earliest that Benson can return is Week 10 against the Seahawks -- the Cardinals have a bye in Week 8. In the meantime, Emari Demercado will become Arizona's No. 1 backfield option, making him a priority addition off your league's waiver wire if he's available. Michael Carter will also see an expanded role as the team's RB2 and is worth a look in deeper leagues for RB depth. Benson should be stashed in an IR spot if you have him rostered.

From RotoBaller

Jayden Daniels Oct 1 12:50pm ET
Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (knee) has been medically cleared by doctors and will practice in full on Wednesday, according to head coach Dan Quinn. Daniels suffered a knee sprain in the Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers and was forced to miss the last two games. However, it appears the 24-year-old second-year signal-caller has made great progress and is on track to return for a Week 5 matchup in Los Angeles this Sunday against the Chargers. There could be some issues with Daniels' mobility outside the pocket as a playmaker and runner, though, and the matchup isn't an ideal one for fantasy purposes. On top of it, top wideout Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) could miss a second straight game. Things aren't lining up great for fantasy purposes in Daniels' return, but he should at least be in the low-end QB1 picture if he's active on Sunday.

From RotoBaller

Tyreek Hill Oct 1 12:30pm ET
Tyreek Hill

The Miami Dolphins officially placed All-Pro wide receiver Tyreek Hill (knee) on season-ending Injured Reserve on Wednesday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Hill dislocated his knee in Monday night's win over the New York Jets and also tore multiple ligaments in his knee, including his ACL. His 2025 season is officially over, and although he's planning on being ready for the start of the 2026 season, it won't be a guarantee that he'll be ready for Week 1. The Cheetah had surgery on his knee on Tuesday. In redraft fantasy leagues, Hill can safely be dropped for reinforcements. In his absence, Jaylen Waddle will be Miami's new WR1, with Malik Washington and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine also moving up the depth chart. Tight end Darren Waller, who had two touchdowns in his 2025 debut on Monday night, should also be heavily involved in the passing attack for Miami going forward with Hill done for the year.

From RotoBaller

Emari Demercado Oct 1 12:10pm ET
Emari Demercado

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado has recorded 21 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown on just six total touches so far in 2025. However, there's a chance he's the team's featured back in Week 5 against the Tennessee Titans with James Conner (ankle) out for the season and Trey Benson (knee) possibly facing a short-term absence. If Benson misses Week 5, the Cardinals would likely split touches to some degree between Demercado and running back Michael Carter. Demercado started the season as the team's RB3 while Carter was only added to the active roster once Conner went down. Still, Demercado has not logged more than four carries in a game since Week 8 of the 2023 season. Demercado should be added in all deep fantasy leagues and could be a low-end flex option in Week 5 if Benson is sidelined.

From RotoBaller