This article is part of our Training Camp Notes series.
Despite having a number of positive news reports out of today's camps, the biggest news of the day is that Justin Jefferson sprained the AC joint in his left shoulder and is scheduled for additional testing. Since there are multiple grades of sprains, it's impossible to speculate about any type of timeframe as to when he'll return. It could be as little as a week or two, but it could also be longer. Those who are drafting this weekend will need to consider their level of risk aversion, and those who prefer to avoid risk may consider moving similarly ranked players ahead of him until more clarity emerges.``
After numerous reports casting uncertainty about Saquon Barkley's (knee) status for the beginning of the season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that Barkley's rehab is going exceptionally well, and he could make his season debut somewhere between Week 1 and Week 3. Of course, any missed time for a player being drafted in the first 12 picks isn't optimal, but if this news comes to fruition, having the star RB ready early in the season should justify using that high pick on him. Should he miss some time, Devontae Booker would likely see an increased role, especially on passing downs.
Although Dak Prescott is missing camp time with a shoulder injury, Jay Glazer reports that the Cowboys expect to have their star QB in the lineup to start the season. Obviously, it's unlikely we'll see Prescott in the preseason, but that should have little impact on his potential effectiveness to start the season. Based on this news, there's no definitive reason to lower him on personal draft boards, though fantasy managers who are risk averse need to be aware that this report isn't an absolute declaration of full health for Week 1.
Despite fantasy managers being used to Julio Jones missing practice time in both the preseason and regular season over the last few years, it should be noted that since leaving Monday's practice early with an undisclosed injury, he has yet to return to the field. Although this injury could be minor, full health cannot be taken for granted for the 32-year-old receiver. Until more clarity about this injury is disclosed, fantasy GMs should consider assessing their valuation of the star WR as he begins his time with the Titans.
For those who missed Thursday's preseason opener, Najee Harris made his pro debut, but it was far from electric, as he was able to muster just 22 yards on seven carries with a long run of six yards while catching his only target for three yards. He's expected to see a heavy workload this season, but it's fair to question how much room he'll have to run behind an offensive line that was a terrible run-blocking unit last year before losing three of their best players in the offseason.
While Tre'Quan Smith continues to miss practice time with an undisclosed injury that coach Sean Payton doesn't expect to be long term, Marquez Callaway has been impressive during practices. With Michael Thomas (ankle) expected to miss significant time, both Smith and Callaway should see regular work in the offense, and if one of them emerges as a strong option during camp, that easily could carry over into the regular season. As a very late pick in drafts, Callaway could offer upside after brief flashes of success last year as a rookie.
Another player with an undisclosed injury that is being described as minor is A.J. Green, and the veteran has missed three-straight practices. As a 33-year-old player with a lengthy injury history, fantasy managers may be wise to have concerns, and it's understandable to consider moving other players ahead of Green on their cheat sheets.
