As Week 18 of the NFL season kicks off, teams are managing injuries and roster adjustments with many players sidelined or facing uncertain statuses. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments:
Kenny Pickett (Ribs) Ruled Out for Eagles’ Finale
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Kenny Pickett will not suit up for the Philadelphia Eagles in their Week 18 matchup against the New York Giants. Pickett, who sustained a rib injury in Week 16 while filling in for Jalen Hurts, attempted to play last week but aggravated the injury and was forced to exit early.
Despite being listed as questionable, Pickett failed to practice all week and was never expected to play with the Eagles having little at stake in the final game. Tanner McKee, a rookie drafted in the third round out of Stanford, will make his first career start. Known for his poise as a pocket passer, McKee impressed in limited action last week, throwing for 54 yards and two touchdowns on just four attempts. However, with Philadelphia opting to rest most of their starters, expectations for McKee and the Eagles’ offense should be tempered.
Tanner McKee to Start for Eagles
With Jalen Hurts sidelined due to a concussion and Kenny Pickett ruled out, Tanner McKee steps up as the Eagles’ starter in Week 18. McKee, who showcased potential during his brief appearance last week, faces a tough challenge as he leads a lineup primarily composed of backups. While McKee’s debut will provide valuable experience, fantasy managers should approach the situation cautiously, given the limited upside of an understaffed offense.
Darnell Mooney (Shoulder) Unlikely to Play for Bears
Rapoport also reports that Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney is a “long-shot” to take the field against the Carolina Panthers due to a shoulder injury sustained during practice. Despite not being officially ruled out, Mooney’s downgrade to a “did not practice” status on Friday is a strong indication that he won’t be available.
In Mooney’s absence, KhaDarel Hodge is expected to join the rotation alongside Drake London and Ray-Ray McCloud. The Bears will likely spread targets around, making it a challenging situation for fantasy players looking for reliable production.
Tony Pollard (Ankle) Expected to Play for Titans
Good news for Tennessee Titans fans and fantasy managers: ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Tony Pollard is on track to play against the Houston Texans. Pollard enters the game with personal incentives on the line, needing 83 rushing yards and two touchdowns to earn $450,000 in bonuses.
With Tyjae Spears out for the season finale, Pollard should see a significant workload. Facing a Texans team that is expected to rest key starters, Pollard has a favorable path to hitting his benchmarks, making him a strong RB2 option in Week 18 fantasy lineups.
Key Takeaways for Week 18
- Eagles’ Depth Tested: With both Jalen Hurts and Kenny Pickett out, Tanner McKee gets a valuable chance to prove his abilities as a starter. However, expectations for offensive fireworks should remain modest.
- Bears Adjust Without Mooney: The potential absence of Darnell Mooney leaves Chicago’s receiving corps thin, giving players like KhaDarel Hodge opportunities to step up.
- Pollard’s Big Opportunity: Tony Pollard’s quest for contract incentives makes him a must-watch player this week, especially against a depleted Texans defense.
As the regular season concludes, these developments will not only impact Week 18 outcomes but also shape team narratives heading into the postseason and offseason.
