Fantasy Football 2023: Training Camp Roundup (7/28)

Training camps provide our first look into NFL players and teams as we prepare for the upcoming fantasy football season. Information will now begin to flood our social media timelines, leaving us to determine the subsequent fantasy impact. It’s a matter of knowing which information matters, and which should be ignored.

So each day in this space, we’ll take a trip through the top news and takeaways around the league’s training camps to offer up what fantasy managers need to know as we head through draft season and into the 2023 NFL regular season.

Today, let’s review the major news from Thursday, July 27. 

Javonte Williams Is Back  

Broncos third-year running back Javonte Williams managed to avoid the PUP list, less than 10 months removed from a torn ACL and more. Williams has already been cleared for contact, taking limited reps at practice. During his recovery, Williams has been watching game film on Alvin Kamara, trying to figure out his new role in Sean Payton’s offense.  

Jets’ Injury Woes Continue  

2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson was seen hobbling off the field, coming down awkwardly after a pass break-up by D.J. Reed.  

Wilson looks to have avoided any sort of serious injury, diagnosed with an ankle sprain. During the Jets’ press conference, head coach Robert Saleh told reporters all indications are that he will be OK. Wilson was sidelined for the rest of practice, along with Allen Lazard who is dealing with muscle tightness. Corey Davis was also absent yesterday, battling an illness. The depth in New York is starting to get thin, however, help may be on the way with Dalvin Cook set to meet with the team this Sunday.  

Joe Burrow Avoids Scare  

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow was carted off the field after suffering a leg injury on a rollout pass.  

It was a scary sight. However, head coach Zac Taylor informed the media that the injury was a calf strain, and he is not yet concerned about his status in Week 1. The strain will likely sideline Burrow for the next few weeks, doubtful to suit up in any preseason games. This offseason the Bengals signed journeyman quarterback Trevor Siemian, who looks to be the favorite to win the QB2 role in Cincinnati.  

Rookies Getting Run in Green Bay  

The Packers’ 2023 second- and third-round picks, Jayden Reed and Luke Musgrave, have quickly vaulted their way up the depth chart, running with the first-team offense.  

Reed has seemingly taken over the slot role alongside second-year players Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, while Musgrave holds the early lead as the starter at tight end. Both rookies made highlight plays, developing early rapport with Jordan Love.  

Puka Nacua Carted for Cramps  

Rams rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua was carted off the field after receiving what was reported as a “substantial workload” during camp. Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur did not witness the injury but said it was nothing more than cramps and the cart was the quickest way to get Nacua to the locker room. As a fifth-round pick, Nacua has a unique opportunity to see playing time right away, facing lackluster competition. Behind Cooper Kupp and Van Jefferson, the third wide receiver role is wide open, with Tutu Atwell and Ben Skowronek also in the mix.  

Jalen Ramsey to Undergo Surgery  

Dolphins’ new All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey received unfortunate news, diagnosed with a torn meniscus after suffering a non-contact injury. In his presser, head coach, Mike McDaniel announced that Ramsey will undergo surgery Friday, with an uncertain timeline to return. Based on the procedure, Ramsey will likely miss somewhere around 4-6 weeks but should be able to return midseason.  

Ramsey will be critical for Miami during their playoff push.