Things happen quickly in the NFL, like a guy who's started over 200 games in a row suddenly being benched for a second-round bust. And within hours after the latest Fantasy Index Weekly was published, a couple of concerning injury reports cropped up.
Buried in this story about Devonta Freeman clearing the concussion protocol is the news that Christian McCaffrey didn't practice on Wednesday due to a shoulder injury. According to Ron Rivera, the issue cropped up from a hit in the Jets game. Asked what his status is for this week, Rivera said "we'll see tomorrow."
If the Panthers don't have McCaffrey against the Saints, it would dramatically change things for them. He's their most targeted player on the season, and this is a team already short on capable receivers. If they're down to just Jonathan Stewart, Cameron Artis-Payne, and Fozzy Whittaker, it would be quite a difference.
It's only Wednesday, so no need to panic, but those with McCaffrey should at least be considering alternatives if need be.
Adrian Peterson sat out Wednesday with a neck issue. Peterson, as outlined in the Weekly, has some potential against the Rams this week. Obviously his best days are well behind him, but he can still be productive in a favorable matchup. Arizona isn't expected to have Kerwynn Williams (ribs), either, which would leave them with D.J. Foster (who's been in a passing downs role since Andre Ellington was released).
Finally, Ameer Abdullah also missed practice with a neck injury. Abdullah has generally been a disappointment and wouldn't have been an exciting play against the Ravens anyway. But if he sits out, it would be a boost to Theo Riddick, who'd probably play a lot more. And people would be spared from being disappointed by Abdullah for a week.
For now, best to just keep these injuries in mind, and maybe have a backup plan in place for McCaffrey, Peterson and Abdullah, if you were hoping to use either. We'll see if they practice tomorrow, and adjust rankings if necessary in the Friday update.
--Andy Richardson