Two weeks in, injuries shake up Week 3 fantasy plans. Jake Browning steps in for Joe Burrow and offers a viable high-end QB2 floor in superflex formats, aided by elite Bengals weapons but with turnover risk. Mac Jones emerges as a Week 3 streamer in Kyle Shanahan’s system if Purdy remains sidelined, while Cooper Kupp returns as a steady WR3 floor in PPR for Seattle. These waiver moves shape Week 3 lineups, especially in deeper leagues.

Consider Browning in all superflex leagues, Jones in deeper 1-QB or 12+ team formats, and Kupp in every format as Seattle’s possession security blanket grows. The Brock Purdy timeline, Cardinals’ defensive struggles, and Seattle’s pass-heavy approach add nuance to Week 3 decisions and DFS rostering.

Bengals backup Jake Browning faces a rare Week 3 test against Carson Wentz as Cincinnati, without Joe Burrow, hosts Minnesota. Browning flashed efficiency in Week 2 with 241 yards and 2 TDs plus a 92-yard game-winning drive, while Wentz—learning Minnesota's offense after a late signing—brings veteran moxie and a deep-ball threat to Justin Jefferson. The matchup echoes the 1998 season when Cunningham and Batch opened in Week 3 for Minnesota and Detroit, underscoring how a Week 3 quarterback switch can redefine fantasy ceilings.

Fantasy angles hinge on volume, efficiency, and matchup. Browning’s accuracy plus mobility could yield streamer-worthy totals if Cincinnati cushions him with a robust run game and pass-catching options. Wentz’s understanding of the playbook and connection with Jefferson offer a high ceiling if Minnesota steadies the offense. This game could pivot each team’s 15-week arc and redefine early-season bets.

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is on injured reserve with turf-toe surgery expected to sideline him for at least a month, with a late-season return still possible per coach Zac Taylor. Jake Browning starts this week against Minnesota as Cincinnati shoots for a 3-0 run and to preserve rhythm in Burrow’s absence.

Browning, with Minnesota roots and a recent Cincinnati win over the Vikings, stresses focusing on the scheme and game plan amid outside doubt about Cincinnati’s playoff chances. The +140 odds reflect risk and upside in Browning-led offense while Burrow’s return remains in the air for fantasy managers.