As NFL teams gear up for Week 2, fantasy football managers face the crucial task of setting their lineups based on player availability. The inactives list is a key resource to help fantasy players make informed decisions about whom to start and whom to sit, ultimately impacting their weekly performance and league standings.
The inactives for Week 2 typically start rolling in about 90 minutes before the kickoff of the early games, which will happen around 11:30 a.m. ET. With the landscapes of each team’s roster frequently shifting due to injuries, it’s vital to stay updated on these changes to maximize your fantasy potential.
Key Inactive Players for Week 2
Younghoe Koo (K, ATL): The Falcons’ kicker did not travel with the team to Minnesota, raising flags on the team’s special teams strategy. As a fantasy manager, it’s essential to pivot away from Koo towards active alternatives, like Parker Romo who will be stepping in.
Isaiah Likely (TE, BAL): Likely’s absence may boost Mark Andrews’ target share significantly. Given that Andrews only caught one pass last week in a high-scoring matchup, he could see an increased workload against their upcoming opponent.
Brock Purdy (QB, SF): If Purdy misses time due to a toe injury, it will impact overall offensive productivity, including fantasy value for key players like George Kittle, who is already on IR, and might further downgrade the receiving options.
Dallas Goedert (TE, PHI): Goedert’s knee issue opens opportunities for other tight ends, but also spreads targets across the Eagles’ wide receiver corps. Expect an uptick for Grant Calcaterra and Kylen Granson in passing situations.
- Tyler Goodson (RB, IND): If he manages to play, Goodson may still face competition for carries, especially behind Jonathan Taylor. It’s a situation to monitor.
Notable Active Players
Wan’Dale Robinson (WR, NYG): Robinson is active despite an ankle sprain, providing the Giants with a much-needed boost in their receiving game. His ability to perform will be vital against a formidable Cowboys defense.
Brock Bowers (TE, LV): Coach Pete Carroll is optimistic about Bowers being available, but fantasy players need to keep an eye on any last-minute updates closer to game time.
- Jauan Jennings (WR, SF): Active despite shoulder concerns, Jennings will face a downgrade in value with uncertainty around the quarterback position, which could limit his opportunities.
What Fantasy Managers Should Monitor
Player Health: Injuries can strike at any moment, rendering even the most reliable players inactive. Keeping an eye on injury reports is essential.
Matchups: Consider how matchups affect a player’s potential. A backup quarterback might limit the effectiveness of wide receivers and tight ends.
Backup Dynamics: With some starters out, it’s essential to analyze how the backups will perform. Players like DJ Giddens and De’Von Achane become pivotal if their respective starters aren’t available.
- Trends from Week 1: Take into account how players performed in their previous game and if they continue to trend positively or if there’s a decline in performance.
Conclusion
Setting your fantasy football lineup in Week 2 requires keen attention to the inactives report. The absence of strategic players like Koo, Likely, and Goedert significantly affects not just individual fantasy lineups but also the team’s overall offensive fluidity. Conversely, actively monitoring those who are participating this week—like Robinson and Jennings—provides an opportunity for valuable points.
As we approach kickoff, refreshing the inactives list and staying up-to-date with late-breaking news is critical for making the best possible lineup decisions. Ultimately, staying informed and adaptable will be crucial to achieving success, whether in weekly matchups or over the entire fantasy season.
