Christian McCaffrey may miss Week 18

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News: 49ers Christian McCaffrey did not practice Thursday with an ankle injury.

What it means in fantasy: McCaffrey has missed back-to-back practices early in the week, which doesn’t bode well for his availability Sunday against the Cardinals. Fantasy managers will get a better picture of his game status after Friday’s practice reports, but realistically, McCaffrey probably won’t play much in this game even if he suits up because San Francisco is a huge favorite and has Super Bowl hopes. The regular season finale is not the time to play with his health. If McCaffrey is ruled out, Tyrion Davis-Price and Jordan Mason would fill the void.

News: Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III and RB DeeJay Dallas did not practice Thursday.

What it means in fantasy: Walker III and Dallas both have ankle injuries and have missed back-to-back practices. Both defenders have been playing through injuries in recent weeks. It’s important for fantasy leaders to follow Friday’s practice reports. The game has playoff implications as the Seahawks can clinch a spot if they beat the Rams and the Lions beat the Packers on Sunday night.

News: Seahawks WR Tyler Lockett did not practice Thursday.

What it means in fantasy: Lockett has missed back-to-back practices, but head coach Pete Caroll says he’s “determined” to play. Lockett suffered a leg injury against the Jets in Week 17 after returning from a hand injury. After returning to action, Lockett continues to struggle with the injury as the Seahawks prepare to play the Rams in Week 18. More clarity on his practice status will be provided Friday. Lockett should be considered a flex option due to his re-injury risk.

News: Cardinals RB James Conner did not practice Thursday with knee and shin injuries.

What it means in fantasy: It’s back-to-back lost practices for Conner. With the Cardinals out of the playoffs, Conner is a candidate to be ruled out against the 49ers on Sunday. Conner is still under contract with Arizona through 2023, so keeping him healthy should be a priority. In the event that Conner is ruled out, Corey Clement and Keaontay Ingram would make the Cardinals’ back-to-back committee.

News: Raiders RB Josh Jacobs did not practice Thursday due to hip and oblique injuries.

What it means in fantasy: Jacobs missed two practices this week for personal reasons and is questionable for Week 18 against the Chiefs. The Raiders’ playoff hopes were dashed when he lost to the 49ers in Week 17, but Jacobs will likely play in Week 18. He’s coming off an incredible season and will be a free agent in 2023. Jacobs also currently leads the league in rushing with 1,608 yards. Nick Chubb is second with 1,448 rushing yards.

News: Commanders RB Antonio Gibson was placed on injured reserve and RB Brian Robinson Jr. did not practice Thursday.

What it means in fantasy: This news shouldn’t come as a surprise to fantasy leaders, as the Commanders have already been eliminated from postseason contention. With a knee injury, Robinson has missed back-to-back practices and is unlikely to play against the Cowboys in Week 18. Also, a cynic might point out that a win could change the Commanders’ NFL draft position in 2023. Jonathan Williams would be Washington’s lead. back if Robinson is ruled out.

News: 49ers WR Deebo Samuel participated fully in Thursday’s practice.

What it means in fantasy: Samuel has been sidelined since the Week 14 game against the Buccaneers with ankle and knee injuries. He has been a full participant in two consecutive practices. Against the Cardinals, where the 49ers are heavy favorites, Samuel will barely play a full snap. San Francisco may have clinched the NFC West, but Sunday’s game isn’t without stakes. With a Cardinals win and an Eagles loss to the Giants, the 49ers would clinch first place in the NFC.

News: Titans WR Treylon Burks did not practice Thursday with a groin injury.

What it means in fantasy: Burks is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game against the Jaguars. He has suffered three separate injuries in his rookie season, the most recent of which is a turf toe injury. Head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters he believes Burks will be fine for Saturday’s game, but that news isn’t optimal for a Titans team playing on a short week (Saturday) and the winner of this game will take the AFC South. The circumstances make it difficult to rely on Burks as anything other than a flexible option in a run-heavy Titans offense centered around Joshua Dobbs.

News: Steelers WR Diontae Johnson was a full participant in practice Thursday.

What it means in fantasy: Johnson missed practice Wednesday with a hip injury. In terms of fantasy points per game, he has been a disappointment to fantasy leaders this season, averaging 10.8. He has caught just 84 of 137 targets and has not scored a touchdown. Johnson is a flexible option against the Browns for an 8-8 Steelers team with a real chance to make the playoffs. The Steelers will make the postseason if they beat Cleveland and the Dolphins and Patriots both lose.

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“Fantasy Focus” Podcast: Field Yates, Stephania Bell, Daniel Dopp and Mike Clay break down everything you need to know for Week 18, including which teams have something to play for and which players you can still count on in the championship lineup. Additionally, Adam Schefter joins in to provide positive updates on Damar Hamlin. Listen | View