Quarterback injuries sideline Dart, Williams and Daniels, raising questions for fantasy lineups
Jaxson Dart, Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels each suffered injuries early in the 2026 season, leaving their teams with backup quarterbacks and creating uncertainty for fantasy football owners.
The New York Giants lost rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart after a knee injury in the second game of the season, and the team announced he will miss the remainder of the year. The injury leaves the Giants without a clear starter and forces them to rely on backup Jameis Winston, who has limited experience as a full-time NFL quarterback. Wide receiver Malik Nabers also remains questionable with a shoulder issue, further limiting the Giants' offensive options.
In Washington, second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow, sidelining him for multiple weeks. The Commanders will turn to veteran Marcus Mariota, who has performed well as a backup since 2024, but the team’s passing distribution has already shifted toward wide receiver Stefon Diggs, with Terry McLaurin seeing fewer targets.
Chicago’s rookie quarterback Caleb Williams is expected to miss at least one game after a concussion, and backup Tyson Bagent also entered concussion protocol, potentially elevating veteran Case Keenum to the field. The Bears’ receiving corps, including Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, has seen limited usage, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the offense.
Fantasy football managers are advised to monitor the evolving quarterback situations and adjust their lineups, as the injured starters’ absences could affect the value of related skill-position players in the coming weeks.