Sports
Week 3 Fantasy Football Tips: Boost Your Team with These Key Pickups!
As we dive into Week 3 of the NFL season, fantasy football managers are grappling with the effects of injuries, performance shifts, and emerging opportunities. The latest injury news, particularly Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco landing on IR with a fibula injury, has sparked a flurry of activity in fantasy leagues. The next few weeks are crucial for making smart pickups and adjustments to your roster. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the waiver wire and make strategic additions to bolster your fantasy team.
Running Backs
Isiah Pacheco Injury: What It Means for Your Fantasy Team
Isiah Pacheco, the Kansas City Chiefs’ promising running back, is expected to land on IR due to a fibula injury suffered in Week 2. The injury occurred in the final minutes of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals, and Pacheco was seen leaving the stadium with a walking boot and crutches. The Chiefs’ head coach, Andy Reid, confirmed that Pacheco would undergo further tests to determine the extent of the injury. The initial reports suggest that Pacheco could be sidelined for more than the minimum four weeks. This opens up a significant opportunity for other running backs in the Chiefs’ backfield.
Carson Steele: The Next Man Up
With Pacheco out, Carson Steele emerges as a strong candidate to lead the Chiefs’ backfield. Steele, an undrafted free agent from UCLA, has demonstrated his capability in early-down and short-yardage situations. Through the first two games of the season, Steele has shown impressive contact balance and leg strength, making the most of every rushing attempt. His solid performance in these critical situations makes him a valuable addition to fantasy rosters.
Kareem Hunt: A Potential Game Changer
The Chiefs are reportedly considering bringing back Kareem Hunt, a familiar face who previously played under Andy Reid. Hunt’s knowledge of Reid’s system could make him an effective short-term solution. However, his role is not yet confirmed, and it’s important to monitor any updates on this situation. If the Chiefs sign Hunt, they may not immediately hand him the starting role, which could limit his immediate fantasy value. For now, Carson Steele remains the preferred option, but Hunt’s potential addition is worth keeping an eye on.
Other Notable Running Backs to Consider
- Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Bucky Irving, currently rostered in 29.5% of ESPN leagues, is worth stashing on your bench. The Buccaneers drafted Irving with the intention of using him alongside Rachaad White. Despite a limited rushing performance against the Detroit Lions, offensive coordinator Liam Coen seems committed to incorporating both backs. Irving could become a valuable asset later in the season, making him a strategic addition to your roster.
- Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys): Rico Dowdle, rostered in 37.3% of leagues, has been more productive than Ezekiel Elliott so far. Both backs have had similar touch counts, but Dowdle’s performance has been more efficient, with better yards per touch and after-the-catch stats. The Cowboys’ offensive line is performing well, ranking eighth in run block win rate. Dowdle’s productivity and potential for increased playtime make him a solid stash option.
- Antonio Gibson (New England Patriots): Antonio Gibson, rostered in 32.3% of leagues, has shown promise with 12 touches in Week 2, resulting in 11.3 fantasy points. While Rhamondre Stevenson remains the primary back, Gibson could become valuable if Stevenson misses time. The Patriots’ heavy reliance on the run makes Gibson a potential asset if Stevenson is unavailable.
- Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans): Dameon Pierce, currently rostered in 2.3% of leagues, is worth monitoring if Joe Mixon faces an extended absence. Pierce missed Week 2 due to a hamstring injury, but if Mixon is sidelined, Pierce could emerge as a key player. His health and the status of Mixon will determine his value in the coming weeks.
- Ty Chandler (Minnesota Vikings): Ty Chandler, rostered in 46.6% of leagues, has provided consistent production and is a solid flex option. Chandler has had double-digit touches in back-to-back games and should continue to play a significant role in the Vikings’ backfield.
- Trey Benson (Arizona Cardinals): Trey Benson, currently rostered in 43.5% of leagues, is a good stash if James Conner misses time. Benson’s potential increased role makes him worth considering, especially if Conner is sidelined.
- Ray Davis (Buffalo Bills): Ray Davis, rostered in 11.4% of leagues, is a stash option in case of an injury to James Cook. With the Bills’ high-scoring offense, Davis could see increased opportunities if Cook is injured.
- Braelon Allen (New York Jets): Braelon Allen, currently rostered in 7.4% of leagues, is worth stashing due to his future potential. His impressive performance in Week 2 suggests he could be a valuable player down the line.
Quarterbacks
Justin Fields (Pittsburgh Steelers): A Solid QB3 Pickup
Justin Fields, currently rostered in 32.0% of leagues, is a dual-threat quarterback with significant fantasy potential. Despite the Steelers’ offensive struggles, Fields’ dual-threat ability makes him a solid QB3 pickup for superflex leagues. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs adds value, and his favorable upcoming schedule enhances his potential as a useful asset.
Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints): Thriving Under New System
Derek Carr, rostered in 21.6% of leagues, has been performing well under the new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Carr has already thrown three 50-plus yard touchdowns this season, showcasing his big-play ability. With a favorable matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3, Carr is poised for another strong performance. He is a reliable starter for those in need of quarterback help.
Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks): Reliable Midrange QB2
Geno Smith, currently rostered in 16.3% of leagues, has scored well in recent games and has a favorable Week 3 matchup. Smith’s performance, combined with the presence of talented receivers like DK Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Tyler Lockett, makes him a solid midrange QB2. His consistent scoring and favorable matchup make him a valuable addition.
Wide Receivers
Demarcus Robinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential Lead Target
Demarcus Robinson, rostered in 33.6% of leagues, could become the lead target in the Rams’ offense if Cooper Kupp remains sidelined. With Kupp’s recent injury, Robinson has the opportunity to step up as a key player. The Rams’ high volume of passing attempts further enhances Robinson’s potential value. He is a solid flex option for fantasy managers looking to fill the gap.
Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Leading in Targets
Romeo Doubs, currently rostered in 30.2% of leagues, is an every-down player for the Packers and leads the team in snaps, routes run, and targets. Despite a run-heavy approach in Week 2, Doubs’ consistent usage makes him a valuable addition. His potential for continued growth makes him worth adding to your roster.
Wan’Dale Robinson (New York Giants): Worth Stashing
Wan’Dale Robinson, rostered in 18.2% of leagues, has had limited targets but could become valuable in future matchups. Despite a challenging Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns, Robinson’s potential for better performances in upcoming games makes him a good stash candidate.
Alec Pierce (Indianapolis Colts): Strong Recent Performances
Alec Pierce, currently rostered in 13.5% of leagues, has shown strong performances in recent weeks. With increased targets and consistent fantasy points, Pierce is a valuable addition. His performance and involvement in the Colts’ offense make him a player to watch and consider for your roster.
Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers): Breakout Potential
Quentin Johnston, rostered in 6.9% of leagues, had a standout game in Week 2, making him worth stashing. While he faces tough matchups in the coming weeks, Johnston’s performance and potential for increased involvement make him a player to keep an eye on.
Jalen Nailor (Minnesota Vikings): Potential for Increased Role
Jalen Nailor, currently rostered in 0.5% of leagues, had a solid performance in Week 2, especially with Jordan Addison sidelined. If Justin Jefferson and Addison remain out, Nailor could become a valuable start in deeper leagues. His performance and potential role increase make him worth considering.
Tight Ends
Hunter Henry (New England Patriots): Strong Week 2 Performance
Hunter Henry, currently rostered in 10.1% of leagues, had an impressive Week 2 performance with 109 receiving yards and 18.9 fantasy points. His connection with Jacoby Brissett and increased target volume make him a potential TE1 if this trend continues. Henry’s strong performance and usage make him a valuable addition.
Colby Parkinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential for Increased Targets
Colby Parkinson, rostered in 44.1% of leagues, may see more targets if Cooper Kupp remains out. Despite a disappointing Week 2, Parkinson’s potential involvement in the Rams’ passing game makes him a player to consider. Monitor Kupp
NEWS
Patriots Shock NFL with Jerod Mayo’s Sudden Dismissal
Jerod Mayo’s residency as the lead trainer of the New Britain Nationalists reached a startling and sudden end after only one season, as the group declared his excusal on Sunday. The choice imprints one of the most brief head training stretches in establishment history, with Mayo managing the Nationalists through a difficult 4-13 season in 2024. His concise residency attaches with Bar Rust’s single season in 1990, during which the group went 1-15, as the most limited for a lead trainer in New Britain Nationalists history.
Loyalists proprietor Robert Kraft recognized the heaviness of the choice in a genuine assertion, pondering his longstanding relationship with Mayo, who had been a piece of the Nationalists’ association since being drafted as a newbie in 2008. Kraft communicated profound regard for Mayo’s commitments both on and off the field throughout the long term. “As far as I might be concerned, actually, this was quite possibly of the hardest choice I have made,” Kraft said. “I have known Jerod for quite a long time. He gained some favor with me and profound respect as a tenderfoot and all through his profession for his play on the field, his authority in the storage space, and the manner in which he behaved locally.”
The transition to excuse Mayo comes after a season where hopefulness immediately gave way to dissatisfaction. The Nationalists started the year optimistically, getting a street triumph against the Cincinnati Bengals in their season opener. Nonetheless, the early achievement was short lived, as the group battled with consistency on the two sides of the ball. Misfortunes mounted, and the Loyalists wound up on some unacceptable finish of a six-game long string of failures by middle of the season. Regardless of dominating their last match against the Bison Bills, a 23-16 triumph that kept them from getting the No. 1 generally speaking pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the season all in all missed the mark regarding assumptions.
Kraft recognized the difficulties Mayo confronted, especially with the program he acquired. The Nationalists entered the season attached with the Carolina Pumas for the least projected success complete in the association at simply 4.5 games. While Kraft expected “developing torments” for a first-year lead trainer driving a group on the move, the absence of progress throughout the span of the time was a critical consider the choice to roll out an improvement. “We have huge fans who expect and merit a preferred item over we have conveyed lately,” Kraft said in his explanation. “I am sorry for that. I have really thought about and thought concerning what moves I can make to speed up our re-visitation of title dispute and decided this move was the most ideal choice right now.”
Mayo, a previous Nationalists linebacker and group skipper, had been broadly viewed as a promising instructing ability. Subsequent to resigning as a player in 2015, he wandered into the corporate world prior to getting back to football as a linebackers mentor for the Loyalists in 2019. Throughout the long term, his initiative and capacity to interface with more youthful players made him a characteristic replacement to Bill Belichick. As a matter of fact, Kraft had taken extraordinary measures to protect Mayo’s future with the association, adding a progression statement to his agreement in 2023 to guarantee he would ultimately take over as lead trainer. NFL Official Roger Goodell applauded the move as “shrewd administration.”
In any case, Jerod Mayo’s most memorable year as lead trainer featured the precarious expectation to learn and adapt he confronted. The Loyalists’ protection, long a foundation of the group’s personality, relapsed essentially under his initiative. Toward the finish of the time, the safeguard positioned rearward in the NFL in quarterback pressures and recorded only 12 focus points, a sharp downfall from earlier years. These battles were especially disheartening given Mayo’s mastery as a previous guarded player and collaborator mentor.
Off the field, Mayo’s residency was not without contention. From the get-go in the season, he stood out as truly newsworthy by portraying the Nationalists as “a delicate football crew in all cases” following a series of misfortunes. In spite of the fact that he later explained his remarks, they highlighted the dissatisfaction inside the association. Mayo likewise confessed to making “tenderfoot mix-ups” as a first-year lead trainer, remembering strolling back proclamations about the group’s arrangements with the expectation of complimentary organization. In spite of these difficulties, Mayo stayed focused on development and learning, frequently depicting his training theory as established in “creating individuals” and assisting players with perceiving regions for development.
The choice to head out in different directions from Mayo mirrors a more extensive pattern in the NFL, where lead trainers are progressively given brief period to show what them can do. Throughout the last 10 years, a few different mentors have been terminated after only one season, including Blunt Reich, Nathaniel Hackett, Lovie Smith, and Metropolitan Meyer. This high turnover rate features the serious strain and high stakes related with training at the expert level.
As the Nationalists push ahead, the quest for their next lead trainer will be a basic move toward the group’s endeavors to reconstruct. Among the potential competitors is Mike Vrabel, a previous Nationalists linebacker who has made progress as the lead trainer of the Tennessee Titans. Vrabel’s experience with the Nationalists’ way of life and his history as a mentor make him an engaging choice for the group’s initiative.
For Mayo, the finish of his residency with the Nationalists denotes another part in a profession that has been characterized by versatility and flexibility. Regardless of the difficulties he looked in his solitary season as lead trainer, numerous inside the football local area accept he can possibly prevail in the NFL, whether as a lead trainer for another group or in an alternate job.
The Nationalists, in the interim, face the overwhelming undertaking of recovering their status as a perpetual competitor. Kraft’s obligation to the group’s prosperity stays unfaltering, and he communicated certainty that the association will roll out the fundamental improvements to get back to its triumphant ways. For the present, nonetheless, the attention is on tracking down the right chief to direct the group through its next section, as the Nationalists mean to reestablish the pride and greatness that have for some time been related with the establishment.
NEWS
Lions Triumph in Thrilling 40-34 Shootout Against 49ers
The Detroit Lions ventured onto the field Monday night with one objective: to get a success against the San Francisco 49ers and set their remaining in the NFC season finisher picture. Notwithstanding previously securing a postseason billet, the Lions picked to play their starters in Week 17, a choice that exhibited their persistent quest for progress and offered a review of what fans can anticipate in the end of the season games. In an undeniably exhilarating, high-scoring matchup, Detroit arose triumphant with a 40-34 success, because of a hazardous offense and convenient guarded plays.
From the initial whistle, obviously the two groups came to play. The San Francisco 49ers, currently out of season finisher conflict, made the most of their last debut on the public stage. Freshman wide collector Ricky Pearsall set the vibe early, getting a score pass from quarterback Brock Purdy to give the 49ers an early lead. San Francisco’s offense was terminating on all chambers, as Purdy circled back to another score pass to fullback Kyle Juszczyk on their subsequent drive. When the principal quarter finished, the 49ers had piled up 121 yards and two scores in only two belongings, leaving the Lions’ safeguard scrambling for replies.
Detroit answered in kind, exhibiting the very hostile capability that has conveyed them throughout the season. Jameson Williams scored the first of his two scores on a fresh pass from quarterback Jared Goff, maintaining the Lions inside striking separation. The feature of the night came on a stunning stunt play in which Amon-Ra St. Brown got a short pass prior to lateraling it to Williams, who ran past the 49ers’ optional for a 41-yard score. Plays like these have turned into a sign of Detroit’s offense, an inventive and persevering unit equipped for setting up focuses against any rival.
As the primary half unfurled, it became obvious that the Lions’ guard would confront huge difficulties. Wounds have tormented the unit all through the season, and Monday night was no exemption. Purdy took advantage of holes in the optional, completing the night with 377 passing yards and three scores prior to leaving the game in the end minutes with a right elbow injury. Reinforcement quarterback Joshua Dobbs entered the game and quickly drove a scoring drive, further featuring the Lions’ guarded weaknesses.
In spite of these battles, Detroit’s protection thought of basic plays when it made the biggest difference. Wellbeing Kerby Joseph was the legend of the evening, keep two vital captures in the final part. His most memorable get put a fourth-down score pass to St. Brown, providing the Lions with their most memorable lead of the game at 31-28. Afterward, with the 49ers driving and taking steps to retake the lead, Joseph blocked Purdy again on an ignore the center. That turnover demonstrated definitive, as tenderfoot running back Jahmyr Gibbs broke free for a 30-yard score run on the resulting drive, really fixing the triumph for Detroit.
The success was something other than one more score in the Lions’ great season. It likewise explained their way to the NFC North title and the favorite in the meeting. With the triumph, Detroit acquired a pivotal edge in their impending Week 18 confrontation against the Minnesota Vikings. On the off chance that the game finishes in a tie, the Lions will guarantee the division title and the No. 1 seed, because of their predominant sudden death round. In any case, the stakes are similarly as high for the Vikings, who likewise enter the matchup with a 14-2 record. The victor will procure the sought after favorite and a bye in the end of the season games, while the failure will make due with the No. 5 seed and a street game during special case end of the week.
For the Lions, the methodology for the postseason is turning out to be progressively clear. Their offense, drove by Goff and a capable supporting cast, is among the most strong in the association. The unit’s capacity to create large plays and score in packs allows Detroit a battling opportunity against any rival. Notwithstanding, their safeguard stays a worry. Wounds have incurred significant damage, and the unit has attempted to contain powerful offenses. Monday night’s down was a microcosm of this dynamic: while the Lions surrendered 34 focuses and almost 400 passing yards, they likewise constrained two basic turnovers that swung the game in support of themselves.
Lead trainer Dan Campbell has embraced this high-risk, high-reward style of play. The choice to play the starters against San Francisco was a determined move, one that got a significant success as well as pre-arranged the group for the power of postseason football. Campbell comprehends that Detroit’s way to progress lies in their capacity to outscore rivals while depending on convenient guarded plays to reverse the situation.
Looking forward, the Lions face their hardest test yet in their normal season finale against the Vikings. Minnesota flaunts a fair group with a strong offense drove by quarterback Sam Darnold and a miserly guard equipped for closing down even the most hazardous assaults. The Lions should carry their best to arise successful in what vows to be one of the most exciting rounds of the time.
As the Lions gear up for Week 18, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The matchup against the Vikings won’t just decide the NFC North hero yet in addition set the vibe for the end of the season games. For Detroit, the potential chance to get the establishment’s very first Super Bowl appearance poses a potential threat. With a tip top offense and a guard equipped for conveying in grip minutes, the Lions are ready to make a profound postseason run. Monday night’s triumph was only the start.
NEWS
Ravichandran Ashwin Bids Farewell to International Cricket
Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to an illustrious career that spanned over 14 years. The announcement came after the conclusion of the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane. Ashwin, who has been a pivotal figure in Indian cricket, declared that he would no longer represent India in any format of the game but hinted at continuing his journey in domestic and club-level cricket.
Speaking to the press, Ashwin said, “This will be my last day as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I feel I still have a bit left in me as a cricketer, but I want to showcase that at the club level. This is the end of my journey with Indian cricket.” His voice carried a mix of pride and emotion as he reflected on his time in the national team. He thanked his teammates, coaches, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their support throughout his career.
Ashwin shared fond memories of his journey, acknowledging the significant role of his fellow players in his success. He expressed gratitude towards teammates like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara, who he said had supported him during challenging times. He also credited their brilliant catching around the bat for helping him achieve the remarkable number of wickets in his career. “I’ve had so much fun and created unforgettable memories. Players like Rohit and others have been a big part of my journey. We’ve shared some incredible moments, and I will always cherish those times,” he said.
The veteran off-spinner also expressed his respect for the Australian cricket team, acknowledging their competitive spirit and the challenges they posed throughout his career. “I’ve always enjoyed playing against them. They pushed me to be a better cricketer,” Ashwin noted.
While he chose not to take questions from the media, Ashwin admitted that the decision was a highly emotional one. He thanked journalists for their coverage over the years, both good and bad, acknowledging their role in shaping his career narrative. “This is a truly emotional moment. I’m not in the frame of mind to answer questions. Thank you for your support, even when the criticism came. That’s part of our journey, and I respect it,” he said.
Ashwin made it clear that while he was retiring from international cricket, his association with the game would continue. He hinted at playing in leagues like the IPL, where he is currently part of the Chennai Super Kings. Ashwin was bought by CSK for INR 9.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction and is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season. He also expressed his intent to explore other roles in cricket beyond playing. “I will stay connected to the game because it has given me everything. You’ll see me again, just in a different capacity,” he said.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who was present at the announcement, spoke highly of Ashwin’s contributions to Indian cricket. Rohit described Ashwin as a true champion and highlighted his impact on the team’s success over the years. He also emphasized the need to respect Ashwin’s decision to retire. “Some decisions are very personal, and Ashwin deserves the freedom to make this choice. He has been a match-winner for us for so many years, and we respect his decision. The team stands by him,” Rohit said.
Rohit revealed that Ashwin had been contemplating retirement for some time. He shared how he convinced Ashwin to stay on for the pink-ball Test match in Adelaide, but the spinner had already made up his mind. According to Rohit, Ashwin wanted to step away at a time when he felt his contributions to the team were no longer as impactful as before. “He was very sure about his decision. We had several discussions, and he felt it was the right time to move on. We must respect that,” Rohit added.
Ashwin leaves behind a remarkable legacy. He is India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with 537 wickets at an average of 24 in 106 matches, second only to Anil Kumble’s 619 wickets. In addition to his bowling achievements, Ashwin also made significant contributions with the bat, scoring 3503 runs in Tests, including six centuries and 14 fifties. This rare combination of skill made him one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the game.
Ashwin’s international career began in 2010, and he quickly established himself as a key player across formats. He was an integral part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad and delivered consistent performances in both ODIs and T20Is. In ODIs, he picked up 156 wickets in 116 matches, while in T20Is, he claimed 72 wickets in 65 games. However, his appearances in white-ball cricket became limited in recent years, with his last ODI coming in the 2023 World Cup against Australia.
Despite his incredible achievements, Ashwin faced challenges in the later stages of his career. He was not a regular in the playing XI for overseas Tests and struggled during India’s 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand at home. These factors, combined with the demands of international cricket, played a role in his decision to step away from the game.
Ashwin’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. Fans and teammates will miss his skill, intelligence, and ability to deliver in crucial moments. As one of India’s finest cricketers, Ashwin’s legacy is secure. While his journey with the national team has come to an end, his contributions to Indian cricket will remain etched in history.
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