Jackson Atwell ‘27, Sports Editor
Fantasy football is finally here and as expected, there have already been many disappointments, and surprises. Injuries like Dolphin’s running back De’von Achane, Travis Etienne( New Orleans running back), Puka Nacua( Los Angeles Rams wide receiver) and many others have taken a toll on loads of people’s teams. These injuries are going to play an effect for weeks, and people are going to need to look for replacements right now. With a lot of new and exciting young players coming up, the options should be fairly steady. Emeka Ebuka (Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver), TreVeyon Henderson (New England Patriots running back) and Omarian Hampton (Los Angeles Chargers running back) are the newest upcoming stars. While these players might’ve already been taken, let’s see who some people in our school might think is a better option.
South Lyon high school has a lot of fantasy managers. But not everyone knows all the little things like newer players, and the best waiver wires. Senior Brenden Comstock said, “The best current waiver wire pickup would definitely be Emanuel Wilson (Seattle Seahawks running back).” Wilson is averaging around 6-10 points per game, but he recently had an absolutely amazing PPR (Points per reception) score last game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Clearly you can see why he is one of the best pickups.Wilson is going to be the main man they are relying on Since Jadarion Price is out for the Seahawks now. This last performance of his is really giving fantasy managers something to look out for. Comstock also commented how “ Nacua, Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings wide receiver), and Ja’marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver)” being out has played an effect on many people in his league. Injuries in the beginning of this year are really taking big hits on these managers. So who’s another good go to player?
Senior Josh Petsch shared his insight, and said,“With DJ Moore (Chicago Bears wide receiver) being injured Keon Coleman (Buffalo Bills wide receiver) is now my go to player”. While Coleman might not be everyone’s first pick, he has definitely portrayed potential throughout the beginning of this season. With Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Coleman could always break out of nowhere. When looking at these newer and slightly less relevant players, people have to make the decision of taking the most constant performances. Coleman on the other hand either has an outstanding game or a not so great one. So when making a decision to pick him up take into account the possibility of disappointments, but also potentially hitting the jackpot one week. Petsch also stated that, “injuries have taken a really big hit to my team; it sucks now my record is 1-3.” With these injuries affecting his team, they also have definitely been affecting many other fantasy teams in our school.
Now when coming to the decision of who to pick up in the near future there will be some clearer options. Wilson and Coleman are definitely two strong picks. Make sure you are also looking for other players too. Consistency is key when scouting possible replacement options. You are always going to need someone in your lineup that can assure you points every game. When it gets closer to playoff time, you are going to want to be confident in players that can give you consistent performances. With all these injuries though you have to be very careful. Make sure you are also looking for players who have not been injury prone in a long time, and the younger the better. This fantasy season will only be getting tougher so decisions are going to have to be smarter. Make sure you’re keeping an eye on your roster and keep your eye out.
