NFL Preseason Week 3 Recap: Fantasy Football Takeaways
The NFL preseason continues to provide valuable insights for fantasy football managers, with several notable developments from Thursday's games.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Competing for Receiver Spots
Roman Wilson, competing for the third receiver spot in 11 personnel, appears to be ahead of Germie Bernard. Wilson's absence in this game suggests he'll start over Bernard. Wilson and Bernard have seen significant playing time together, with Wilson primarily in the slot and Bernard outside in two-receiver sets.
The Steelers' starting wide receivers, D.K. Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., have missed all three preseason games, allowing Wilson and Bernard to shine. With injuries to the starters, Wilson and Bernard are likely to see significant playing time in Week 1.
Skyler Bell, a fourth-round rookie, made his debut after missing the first two games with a hamstring injury. Bell's playing time and usage in 11 and 12 personnel are encouraging, suggesting he could develop into a starting role.
Buffalo Bills: Bell's Debut and Usage
Skyler Bell, a fourth-round rookie, made his debut after missing the first two games with a hamstring injury. Bell's playing time and usage in 11 and 12 personnel are encouraging, suggesting he could develop into a starting role.
The Bills rested most of their expected 53-man roster players, but Bell was an exception. His near-constant presence with the starters and limited missed plays indicate a strong role in the offense.
Mecole Hardman Jr. often moved into the slot when Bell lined up outside, suggesting a potential rotation between Z and the slot.
New England Patriots: Wide Receiver Depth
The Patriots' trade of Kayshon Boutte to the Houston Texans moves Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III up in the depth chart. While they played in this game, their roster spots are now secure.
Williams and Chism's playing time and scoring a touchdown in the first quarter further solidify their positions. They are likely to contribute playing time and could impact the Patriots' wide receiver depth.
San Francisco 49ers: Running Back Competition
Kaelon Black appears to be leading the competition for the 49ers' backup running back job. His playing time and involvement with both Mac Jones and Adrian Martinez are encouraging.
The 49ers' star players, including Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle, returned to practice, providing positive updates for the team.
Los Angeles Rams: Tight End Usage
Charlie Kolar, the top tight end, played every snap with the starters, further confirming his role in the offense.
Kolar's playing time and success in 11, 12, and 21 personnel suggest he could finish as a top-12 fantasy tight end, given the quality of the Chargers' offense and his projected playing time.
