Jake Browning takes Cincinnati’s quarterback duties, flashing a stable fantasy floor around 20 points per game in his last starter stint, signaling weekly streaming viability in favorable matchups.

Denver’s WR pecking order shifts as Troy Franklin edges Marvin Mims Jr. for outside work, with Courtland Sutton anchoring the unit. Woody Marks is breaking out in Houston’s backfield, potentially becoming a top waiver RB and even a starter soon. PFF+ tools and in-season projections round out the plan for smart, early-week roster decisions.

Week 2 fantasy evals for three late-round rookie backs. Skattebo struggled in Week 1 behind a leaky Giants line, with just two rushing attempts for -3 yards and 12 receiving yards on two catches. Gordon’s debut was muted in a blowout loss, limited to two carries for 4 yards and one catch for -1, as Achane dominated the Dolphins’ backfield. Marks saw minimal usage for Houston, three carries for three yards and no targets. Expectations suggest waivers or bench for Skattebo and Gordon in most leagues, with Marks a deep-dly hold or drop depending on format.

Beyond Week 2, the path to real fantasy relevance hinges on backfield volume and offensive line upgrades. The trio faces crowded roles and game-script dependencies, so rostering them requires patience and a willingness to chase any bump in touches or injuries in the weeks ahead. For now, most managers should lean toward safer options while monitoring opportunity shifts.

Joe Mixon will miss at least the first four games of 2025 after landing on the Texans’ reserve/non-football injury list, with Caserio offering no clear path for a quick return. A Week 5 matchup against the Ravens looms as a potential return date if progression cooperates. In Mixon’s absence, Houston’s backfield would lean on Dameon Pierce, Dare Ogunbowale and rookie Woody Marks, while Nick Chubb’s one-year Texans deal adds veteran depth to a race-tested rushing corps. Mixon’s 2024 Houston form—1,016 rushing yards, 11 TDs, plus dual-season TD leads and top scrimmage totals—gives fantasy managers context for his upside when healthy.

The backfield questions extend beyond Mixon: Pierce remains the top early-down option, Ogunbowale provides passing-down reliance, and Marks offers youth and change-of-pace potential. Houston inked Nick Chubb in June, which could influence rhythm and goal-line usage. If Mixon returns, workload could shift again; if not, Pierce’ volume could anchor fantasy rosters, with Marks and Ogunbowale carving roles in a committee.