Damarri Mathis’ season-ending ACL ends his Panthers debut before it starts; Panthers claimed him after Denver cut him, keeping a Bronco-alumnus in Carolina’s rotation in theory. That move tightens Carolina’s secondary depth and shuffles early-season WR/CB expectations as Evero’s system continues to influence fantasy angles.

Ex-Broncos in flux: Jeff Driskel to Raiders practice squad; Ronnie Perkins to Falcons; Garrett Nelson to Saints; Jerjuan Newton worked out for Lions; Chase Edmonds to Colts; Juwann Winfree cleared from Texans IR. These waiver-loop moves shape late-season depth options and dynasty watch lists more than immediate fantasy impact.

Broncos alumni are reshuffling NFL rosters as free agency opens. Royce Freeman signed with the Bears, Michael Ojemudia joined the Cowboys, and Juwann Winfree linked with the Texans. Dalton Risner is on a broad free-agent tour with potential stops in Cincinnati, Seattle, or Pittsburgh. Ben DiNucci and Ronnie Perkins joined Atlanta, Cam Fleming tested with Indy, and the Bills began injury settlements that opened roster spots. For fantasy fans, these moves create new depth-chart puzzles and potential breakout spots in 2024, particularly at Texans receiver, Cowboys secondary depth, and Bears backfield depth behind their starter.

Risner’s frame-shifting free-agent tour looms largest: his landing could reshape interior line play in a bully-ball division, altering run lanes and pass protection for whichever team signs him. Winfree’s Texans slot opens a modest upside path if he earns targets behind the top options, while Freeman’s Bears move adds a veteran option to an unsettled backfield. DiNucci’s Falcons stint defines a clear backup path, and Virgil’s Bills moment could seed a late-season wildcard for deep-league rosters. Overall, the ex-Broncos ripple effects press fantasy managers to reassess backfield sharing, WR cadences, and pass-protection boundaries across multiple squads.

Houston Texans returned to work after a preseason win, easing back into action with key players ramping up from injuries. Cam Robinson’s leg setback appears manageable as he rejoined practice, with Aireontae Ersery stepping in at left tackle and a fluid front five still being sculpted by head coach DeMeco Ryans. The unit looked to lock in protections while remaining adaptable, as rookie Jake Andrews and Ed Ingram continued to mesh with Laken Tomlinson and Tytus Howard. Houston also added veteran WR depth by signing Juwann Winfree, following the trade of John Metchie III, signaling a practical rebuild with a flexible offense and a roster navigating a tight preseason cap.