Fantasy Football Takeaways from Friday's Preseason Games: Jaylen Wright, Michael Penix Jr., Justin Fields and More
We had three preseason games on Friday night and these are the key takeaways from that slate of games.
The NFL preseason is now in full swing as we got a three-game slate on Friday night. We saw the Miami Dolphins host the Atlanta Falcons, the Houston Texans went on the road to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Baltimore Ravens were home against the Philadelphia Eagles. A lot of the starters still haven't gotten on the field, but there are still plenty of takeaways from these games that can help you shape your fantasy football outlook heading into the regular season.
Dolphins Rookie Running Back Shines
The star of the night was Dolphins' rookie Jaylen Wright. His skill set was on full display as he broke multiple double-digit yard runs. He ended the game averaging 5.5 yards per carry, taking 10 carries for 55 yards and a touchdown. Watching him was even more impressive than those sparkling numbers.
This only further complicates an already murky backfield in Miami. Fantasy owners already had some concerns that there may not be enough touches to go around for De'Von Achane and Raheem Mostert. If Wright turns out to be as good as he looked on Friday, then the Dolphins' backfield may become very crowded.
It's also worth noting that Chris Brooks led the team in touches. He could end up being used more on the goal line than fantasy owners would like. I project him to make the team over Jeff Wilson Jr.
Michael Penix Jr. has Erratic Debut
There is no doubt that the Falcons' first-round quarterback has a ton of talent and would have a highlight reel twice as long as Kirk Cousins would. Even with limited playing time, you could see his upside shine through. However, his weaknesses were also evident as he missed open receivers with inaccurate passes and overlooked routes.
Dynasty owners are rightfully excited about Penix, nevertheless, it would be shocking to see him get any meaningful snaps this season as long as Cousins is healthy and the Falcons are competitive. Penix should be the future for the Falcons but he still has a long way to go to get to where he needs to be to take the starting job away from Cousins.
Pittsburgh's Passing Attack is Coming into Focus
Justin Fields looked to be in mid-season form, which is not meant as a compliment. He was still making all the same mistakes that got him shipped out of Chicago. Despite completing five out of his six pass attempts, he also struggled in the pocket, getting sacked twice which led to two fumbles and cost the team 15 yards. Russel Wilson is all but a lock to be the Steelers' Week 1 starter assuming his health is no longer an issue come September.
It's also notable that Van Jefferson is clearly locked into a starting role opposite of George Pickens. If you are in a deep league and need to take a shot on the WR2 in this offense, it is Jefferson. We don't expect big things from him by any means, nonetheless, he could end up displaying more PPR value than most fantasy owners are anticipating. He's a player to keep an eye on early in the season on your waiver wire.
Texans Handcuff is Still Pierce
There has been plenty of speculation regarding Dameon Pierce's role in Houston this season. The Cam Akers signing only further stoked these flames.
On Friday, Pierce played every snap with the starting offense, suggesting he's locked into the primary backup role. If you are looking to handcuff Joe Mixon this year, then Pierce is the back to target.
Tank Dell also served as the clear WR3 in this offense, but did score a 34-yard TD on his only target, reminding fantasy owners exactly why he is such a valuable asset.
Gainwell Holds on to the RB2 Job in Philly
There wasn't a whole lot to take away from this game for either team. However, the most notable piece of information we gained is that based on usage, Kenneth Gainwell is still locked in as the Eagles' RB2 ahead of rookie Will Shipley.
Shipley is a prospect that a lot of people liked during the draft process and should have a promising future as a rotational back in the NFL. With that said, this staff loves Gainwell and it doesn't look like he'll be falling down the depth chart anytime soon. He should be considered the primary backup to Saquon Barkley heading into the 2024 season.
