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Week 9 Projections Account for Key Injuries
Final fantasy football projections for Week 9 were published on Oct. 25, 2026, incorporating updates regarding injuries and roster moves across the league. The projections represent the final edition for the week, accounting for several significant absences including quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Kyler Murray, running back Cam Skattebo, and wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
The updates also factor in the release of New Orleans Saints running back Kendre Miller on Saturday afternoon. These changes have triggered adjustments to player rankings and usage expectations for Week 9 matchups.
Quarterback Shifts Impact Offensive Expectations
Several starting quarterback roles have changed due to injury, altering offensive game plans for the upcoming week. Shedeur Sanders has replaced Deshaun Watson at the helm. In another divisional shift, Carson Wentz takes over for Kyler Murray.
In Seattle, Drew Lock replaces Sam Darnold as the starter. However, reports indicate that Lock is not 100% healthy, leading to expectations that the Seahawks will rely more heavily on the running game. This shift in offensive strategy has direct implications for the passing attack, specifically impacting Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who takes a small hit to his projection with Lock getting the starting job. Additionally, tight end AJ Barner is docked in value due to the Drew Lock start.
Running Back Usage and Roster Adjustments
The absence of Cam Skattebo has created immediate opportunities for other backs on the depth chart. Devin Singletary rises to RB2 status in Week 9 with Skattebo out, backed up by Gregory Desrosiers and Phil Mafah.
In New Orleans, Alvin Kamara is projected to have a dominant usage rate given that he is backed up by Audric Estime and Zamir White. Meanwhile, the situation in Las Vegas involves Mike Washington Jr., who has been adjusted to anticipate a closer split with expected starter Ashton Jeanty, who remains a must-start in fantasy football.
Indianapolis sees Tyler Allgeier elevated to a must-start role as Jeremiyah Love and Bam Knight are inactive, with Evan Hull serving as his backup. In New York, the split between Breece Hall and Braelon Allen is expected to be extremely volatile, though Hall is confirmed to play.
Wide Receiver and Tight End Roster Moves
With Garrett Wilson listed inactive, Omar Cooper Jr. and Adonai Mitchell are projected to receive heavy usage in the passing game.
On the tight end side, Isaiah Likely has been downgraded to TE6 as the Giants get Theo Johnson back in the mix. In Seattle, Jordyn Tyson has been activated from the injured reserve, a move that is sufficient to bench Vele for Week 9.
