In an earlier blog post, we took a look at the perceived initial fantasy winners of the 2024 NFL free agency. In this follow-up post, we’ll delve into some notable players whose fantasy stock has taken a hit following the recent offseason moves.
Justin Fields
The most significant move of the week saw Justin Fields traded from the Chicago Bears to the Pittsburgh Steelers. While many hoped for a scenario where Fields would assume the starting role for another city, the trade to Pittsburgh casts a shadow over his fantasy outlook. Instead of stepping into a starting role, Fields now finds himself backing up Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh. While there’s potential for Fields to eventually claim the starting position, this outcome is undoubtedly not what fantasy owners were banking on. The uncertainty surrounding his role in Pittsburgh dampens his fantasy value moving forward.
Tony Pollard/Tyjae Spears
Another notable transaction involves Tony Pollard’s move to the Tennessee Titans. Pollard, who served as a valuable asset in the Dallas Cowboys offense, now faces a downgrade in both team quality and opportunity. Joining the Titans, a team with a less potent offense than the Cowboys, Pollard’s fantasy outlook takes a hit. Furthermore, his arrival in Tennessee likely stifles any hopes for Tyjae Spears to emerge as the primary back. Fantasy owners invested in Pollard or Spears must adjust their expectations accordingly, considering the diminished opportunities in this backfield.
Justin Herbert
Justin Herbert emerged as a fantasy stud in recent seasons, but his situation took a significant downturn with the departure of key offensive weapons in free agency. The losses of Keenan Allen, Austin Ekeler, Mike Williams, and Gerald Everett leave Herbert devoid of his primary targets. Moreover, with a new coaching staff speculated to prioritize a more run-focused offense, Herbert’s fantasy production may suffer. Fantasy managers who relied on Herbert must brace for a potential dip in his output due to the depleted supporting cast and shifting offensive philosophy.
Keenan Allen
Keenan Allen’s trade from the Chargers to the Bears marks a substantial shift in his fantasy outlook. In Los Angeles, Allen enjoyed status as the clear number one receiver, forming a potent connection with Justin Herbert. However, in Chicago, Allen faces uncertainty regarding his role in a potentially more evenly distributed passing attack. Additionally, catching passes from a rookie quarterback introduces further uncertainty into Allen’s fantasy equation. Fantasy owners should temper expectations for Allen in his new environment.
Austin Ekeler
Austin Ekeler’s move from the Los Angeles Chargers to the Washington Commanders presents another fantasy dilemma. Despite experiencing regression in his on-the-field performance last season, Ekeler’s role in the Chargers’ offense was secure. However, the shift to Washington introduces the likelihood of a shared backfield with Brian Robinson. Ekeler’s fantasy value takes a hit due to increased competition for touches in his new team.
Aaron Jones
Finally, Aaron Jones’ departure from the Green Bay Packers to the Minnesota Vikings injects uncertainty into his fantasy outlook. Leaving the rising offense of the Packers, Jones faces the challenge of adapting to a new system in Minnesota, particularly in the absence of Kirk Cousins. The unknowns surrounding the Vikings’ offense make it difficult to gauge Jones’ fantasy potential moving forward.
Honorable Mentions: Devin Singletary, Kenny Pickett, Desmond Ridder, Sam Howell