T.J. Hockenson Injury Update: A Patience Game for Fantasy Managers
Team: Minnesota Vikings
Injury: Torn ACL and MCL (Week 17, 2023)
Status: On PUP List (Out at least 4 weeks)
T.J. Hockenson’s knee injury, sustained in Week 17 of the 2023 season, has placed him on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, ruling him out for at least the first four weeks of the 2024 season. This injury cut short what was shaping up to be a career-best season for Hockenson, who was averaging 14.6 PPR points per game before going down. Fantasy managers who drafted Hockenson will need to be patient, as his return is not expected until around Week 5 or 6 at the earliest.
Fantasy Impact:
Hockenson remains a valuable asset in the long term, but his early-season absence means managers need to find a temporary replacement at tight end. Consider streaming options like Taysom Hill or Hunter Henry, who could provide solid production while Hockenson recovers. Once he returns, Hockenson has the potential to be a top-five fantasy tight end, making him worth the wait.
Jonathan Brooks: The Rookie RB to Monitor
Team: Carolina Panthers
Injury: ACL Tear (November 2023)
Expected Return: Week 5 (Earliest)
Jonathan Brooks, the highly touted rookie running back for the Carolina Panthers, is recovering from an ACL tear he suffered last November. Brooks is expected to miss the first four weeks of the season, but he has the potential to make a significant impact once he returns. Chuba Hubbard will handle the RB1 duties in Brooks’ absence, but the rookie could take over the starting role later in the season.
Fantasy Impact:
Brooks is a valuable stash for fantasy managers who can afford to be patient. His upside in the second half of the season could be a game-changer, especially if Hubbard struggles. Keep Brooks on your radar and be ready to activate him once he’s cleared to play.
Nick Chubb: A Gradual Comeback
Team: Cleveland Browns
Injury: Torn Knee Ligaments (Week 2, 2023)
Status: On PUP List (Out at least 4 weeks)
Nick Chubb’s recovery from a severe knee injury has been slow but steady. The Cleveland Browns have placed him on the PUP list, which will sideline him for at least the first four weeks of the season. While Jerome Ford is expected to lead the backfield in Chubb’s absence, Chubb’s long-term value remains intact, though managers should be cautious not to rush him back into starting lineups.
Fantasy Impact:
Chubb is a must-stash in all formats, but patience is key. Ford could offer decent early-season value, but Chubb’s return will likely bring a more balanced attack to Cleveland’s offense. Monitor his progress closely and plan your roster accordingly.
Other Notable Injuries and Their Fantasy Implications
- Clyde Edwards-Helaire (Kansas City Chiefs): Dealing with PTSD and placed on IR, CEH’s fantasy value is minimal, with Samaje Perine and Carson Steele stepping up in his absence.
- Keaton Mitchell (Baltimore Ravens): Recovering from an ACL tear, Mitchell’s return remains uncertain. Justice Hill will handle change-of-pace duties behind Derrick Henry in the meantime.
- Kendre Miller (New Orleans Saints): Out with a hamstring strain, Miller is on short-term IR. His upside makes him a speculative stash, but managers should be ready to move on if more pressing injuries arise.
- Tyler Higbee (Los Angeles Rams): Higbee is also on the PUP list due to a severe knee injury. His return date is unclear, and his role could be in jeopardy if Colby Parkinson performs well in his absence.
Conclusion: Navigating the IR Landscape
Injuries are an inevitable part of fantasy football, but staying informed and proactive can help mitigate their impact. Stashing players like T.J. Hockenson and Jonathan Brooks in your IR spots could pay dividends later in the season, while others, like Clyde Edwards-Helaire, may be better left on the waiver wire. Keep an eye on weekly injury updates, and adjust your lineup strategy to ensure your fantasy team remains competitive throughout the season.
