Bengals RB/2nd-year QB questions surface as Joe Burrow needs season-altering surgery for torn ligaments and turf toe, pushing Jake Browning into the starting role while Brett Rypien sits on the practice squad. Derek Carr’s name pops up via Mike Florio but is deemed a non-starter—Saints hold his rights and a departure would require a trade. The Gronkowski trade example underscores how contract status blocks midseason fixes. Fantasy managers should expect Browning’s ceiling to hinge on surrounding talent and game flow.

Beyond Browning, Carr’s unlikely return, and the Saints’ control of his rights, Bengals’ depth chart remains thin. Shemar Stewart’s injury adds a defensive wrinkle. Overall, the outlook for late-season fantasy production in Cincinnati is largely volatile, with Browning needing favorable scripts and schedule to pay off.

Geno Smith’s Week 2 MNF struggles overshadow a solid Raiders defense as Las Vegas dropped a high-variance shootout against Los Angeles. Smith forced throws, 3 interceptions, and just 180 passing yards, while the defense limited the Chargers to 20 points after an early turnover. Offense line woes and playmaking gaps surfaced, prompting questions about how the unit will rebound in Week 3. Depth guys Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty chipped in modest yet meaningful touches, and chatter about Brady, Carroll, and game-planning added context to the fallout.

Fantasy-wise, the takeaway is twofold: Smith’s ceiling remains volatile if the line can’t protect him, and the defense’s resilience could keep them in low-scoring streamer territory in favorable matchups. Watch for Jayden Daniels’ status and potential offensive adjustments, as well as how the Raiders’ next game script might lean into supporting cast contributions and more disciplined attacking sequences.