Texans WR Andre Johnson's offseason absence gives DeAnd...

Jun 25, 2014

Texans WR Andre Johnson's offseason absence gives DeAndre Hopkins an advantage. The Sideline View's Lance Zierlein confirmed to Around The League that Fitzpatrick and rookie Tom Savage are already developing a strong rapport with the second-year wideout.

HC Bill O'Brien's offense should also provide a boost. Hopkins drew just two more targets than tight end Garrett Graham with Gary Kubiak calling the plays. Dialing up more slants, bubble screens and crossing routes will help. His leaping ability was also underutilized, as Kubiak has long been one of the NFL's most conservative coaches in the red zone.

Hopkins doesn't have the extraordinary physical gifts of Johnson, but the talent is there to post several seasons as a top 15 NFL wideout. Taking over the Titans game suggests No. 1 receiver potential should Johnson force his way out of Houston.

Even if Johnson returns by September, Hopkins should have little trouble flirting with 1,000 yards and a half-dozen touchdowns. After all, he was on pace for 80 catches and 1,080 yards after the first four games of his career.

Fantasy Impact:

Hopkins finished as the #50 WR in 2013, posting 52 catches for 802 yards and two touchdowns, a solid season for a rookie wideout playing along an established veteran like Andre Johnson. Provided he develops a strong rapport with Fitzpatrick, he should progress in O'Brien's offense.

yesterday

Tank Dell suffered dislocated kneecap in Week 16

Ian Rapoport

yesterday · 7:30 PM EST

Texans WR Tank Dell suffered a dislocated kneecap during Saturday’s game against the Chiefs.

Fantasy Impact:

The injury occurred as Dell landed after catching his touchdown pass in the third quarter. Dell was carted off and eventually went to the hospital, where he will stay overnight. The extent of the injury or any other injury is still to be determined. Texans players were overcome with emotion following the injury to their teammate. Dell’s status for training camp and the start of the 2025 season is up in the air.

Derek Carr, Alvin Kamara ruled out for Week 16

yesterday · 6:20 PM EST

The Saints ruled out QB Derek Carr and RB Alvin Kamara for Week 16 against the Packers.

Fantasy Impact:

Carr is still dealing with his hand injury while Kamara is dealing with a groin injury that is considered week-to-week. The Saints could choose to let Kamara rest for the remainder of the season but they have yet to place him on injured reserve. Kendre Miller will get the start and is an RB2 this week against the Packers.

Spencer Rattler will get the start at quarterback. It's unlikely Carr will return this season with the season all but lost at 5-9. Rattler is not a reliable fantasy option this week, though he did show more upside than Jake Haener in Week 15.

Tank Dell carted off with knee injury following touchdown

Ian Rapoport

yesterday · 3:18 PM EST

Texans WR Tank Dell was carted off the field Saturday after a bad knee injury.

Fantasy Impact:

Dell had just scored a touchdown but the way he landed caused the injury. NBC isn’t even showing certain angles because of how bad the injury looks to be. Dell’s leg was immobilized. Dell’s rookie season was ended prematurely due to a broken leg. Very unfortunate news for the young wide receiver.