Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Insights Highlight Rookies and Depth Chart Shifts

Hayden Winks examined the first week of NFL preseason games, focusing on player usage, depth-chart rotations and fantasy relevance. In Buffalo, the Bills mixed starters with backups in a 3-WR set, rotating DJ Moore, Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir, while Josh Allen’s snap distribution suggested a complex rotation that could affect redraft strategies. The Giants saw Cam Skattebo start over Isaiah Likely at tight end, and rookie Malachi Fields scored a touchdown, indicating a potential long-term role alongside Malik Nabers.

The Carolina Panthers gave Tetairoa McMillan significant slot snaps in 3-WR formations, positioning him as a possible fantasy contributor. Cleveland’s Browns used Deshaun Watson before giving Shedeur Sanders a start; rookie KC Concepcion earned a touchdown and a notable punt return, hinting at a larger role. Los Angeles Rams rookie quarterback Ty Simpson completed his early passes without mistakes, while Kansas City’s Chiefs highlighted Emmett Johnson and Cyrus Allen on screen plays.

Minnesota’s Vikings rotated Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason, and Dallas’ Cowboys gave Jaydon Blue early backfield reps, suggesting late-round draft value. Baltimore’s Ravens featured third-round receiver Ja'Kobi Lane with a touchdown and multiple first-downs, and Seattle’s quarterbacks Drew Lock and Jalen Milroe split drives, each recording limited production.

Philadelphia’s tight end Eli Stowers struggled on blocking assignments, prompting a recommendation to consider him a sell-high in dynasty leagues. New Orleans’ Audric Estime scored early, raising his odds for a third-running-back spot. Miami’s De'Von Achane received a full workload on the first drive, reinforcing his early-round fantasy appeal. New York Jets rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. lost his starting role to Isaiah Williams, while Breece Hall’s snap count suggested a solid RB2 option.

Denver’s rookie running back Courtland Sutton posted a touchdown, and the Commanders relied heavily on sixth-round rookie Kaytron Allen, who logged 23 carries. Atlanta’s tight end Kyle Pitts demonstrated improved movement after a previous injury. Arizona’s rookie running back Jeremiyah Love started over Tyler Allgeier before exiting with an ankle issue, and the Cardinals suffered a season-ending MCL tear to Chase Bisontis.

Other notes included the Raiders’ rookie running back Fernando Mendoza handling under-center snaps, the Packers’ faster offensive tempo and limited receiver rotation, and the 49ers’ De'Zhaun Stribling showing strong playmaking ability. Overall, the preseason provided early indicators of depth-chart battles and potential fantasy value for the upcoming season.