Cordell Volson needs shoulder surgery that could sideline him for the 2025 season, a major blow to Cincinnati's interior. He started 15 games last year and 48 across three seasons, but his future with the Bengals now hinges on rehab and the club’s evaluation of options. The Bengals have Dylan Fairchild in a heated battle for left guard and now appear to lean toward Fairchild as the starter to begin 2025. Cincinnati even hosted Dalton Risner for a visit, signaling they’re exploring upgrade options to bolster depth along the line as Volson’s status looms large over Burrow’s protection and the run game. The situation casts a shadow over the Bengals’ offensive line and could reshape how fantasy managers view Cincinnati’s pass protection and overall attack this coming season.

Volson’s injury creates an immediate opening, with Fairchild likely stepping in if he’s healthy enough to begin the year. Risner’s visit adds a potential veteran floor if Cincinnati signs him, offering immediate stability and versatility across interior spots. With Volson entering the final year of his deal, the Bengals may be forced to plan beyond 2025, weighing whether Fairchild can grow into a long-term starter and how Risner’s addition would influence line calls, shotgun snaps, and Burrow’s pocket time in the early part of training camp.

Joe Burrow exploded in 2024 with elite passing volume, finishing among the top fantasy quarterbacks per game despite Cincinnati’s defense leaking points. The Bengals kicked off 2025 by shoring up the trenches with Lucas Patrick and Dylan Fairchild joining the line, while Tee Higgins re-signed and Ja’Marr Chase remains Burrow’s prolific counterpart. The combination gives Burrow a high-volume, high-ceiling path in a projected pass-heavy attack, keeping him firmly in the QB1 conversation for 2025.

Fantasy managers should note Cincinnati’s weapons accentuate Burrow’s upside, with Chase and Higgins posting strong efficiency marks last season. The OL upgrade should grant Burrow more time and rhythm, supporting an offense that trusts Burrow to push counts and touchdowns. Projections peg Burrow for another massive volume year, with the Bengals aiming to sustain a top-tier passing attack even if the defense remains imperfect.

The preseason guide leans into Burrow’s floor and ceiling, emphasizing two-pronged WR firepower and the compatibility of the line upgrades with Burrow’s aggressive releasing style. For fantasy, early-round targets should consider Burrow’s safety floor and the explosive upside from Chase and Higgins in a high-volume system, making Burrow a compelling anchor for many builds.

Donovan Ezeiruaku's rapid development is crucial for the Dallas Cowboys, particularly amid Micah Parsons' unresolved contract situation. Meanwhile, Pat Bryant has been making waves during training camp, challenging for the WR2 position with the Denver Broncos. His notable performances against top-tier defenders, including reigning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II, have caught the attention of coaches and fans alike.

As NFL teams gear up to face competition in the preseason, numerous rookies are set to showcase their skills. Among the players to keep an eye on in Week 1 are Justin Walley from the Indianapolis Colts, who is pushing for a starting cornerback spot, and Dylan Fairchild of the Cincinnati Bengals, who aims to improve a struggling offensive line. The Las Vegas Raiders' Dont'e Thornton Jr. is also anticipated to make a significant impact as a wide receiver, given his impressive size and speed. In the defensive spotlight, Atlanta Falcons' James Pearce Jr. hopes to revitalize the team's pass rush after a lackluster previous season. Lastly, Carolina Panthers' Jimmy Horn Jr. is gaining traction as a potential key offensive player.