Sunday Aftermath: Lamar Jackson’s injury, Jonah Coleman’s emergence, and more
BALTIMORE — Lamar Jackson will miss at least four games on injured reserve with a thumb injury, the Baltimore Ravens said Sunday, and the possibility that he could miss all nine remaining contests hangs over the 4-4 franchise. The two-time MVP’s absence is compounded by the fact that backup Tyler Huntley is out with turf toe, leaving undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano to start Thursday against the Jacksonville Jaguars with just 72 hours of preparation.
The Ravens’ offensive line and skill players will have to adjust quickly. Jackson, who was in the midst of another MVP-caliber season, is expected to be replaced by Fagnano, who spent last year at UConn. The team said it has no timetable for Jackson’s return beyond the injured reserve designation.
In Denver, Jonah Coleman earned the Broncos’ goal-line work, out-carried J.K. Dobbins 11-7 and was the only running back to receive a target. Fourth-round rookie Coleman has now converted all three of his goal-line opportunities, forcing fantasy managers to take notice despite concerns about the committee with Tyler Badie and Cody Schrader.
The Arizona Cardinals improved to 3-0 against Dallas over the past four seasons, defeating the Cowboys despite losing their No. 1 running back, No. 2 receiver and No. 3 running back to injury. Gardner Minshew started in place of an injured Carson Beck and connected with Adonai Mitchell, who had the best game of his career. Omar Cooper Jr. was not targeted.
The Chargers struggled again coming out of their bye week, with Justin Herbert facing continued pressure issues. Hunter Henry injured his foot against the Dolphins, further thinning a Patriots tight end room already depleted by injuries.
Emmett Johnson led the Chiefs in both aerial yards and yards from scrimmage, posting the team’s longest gain, a 73-yard touchdown reception. Johnson’s performance could signal a increased role in the Chiefs’ skill corps.
Stats of the week: The Bucs became the first team since 1974 to win a game without completing a pass. Baker Mayfield had a higher passer rating (39.6) than Michael Penix (12.0) without completing a completion.
The Cardinals are 3-0 against Dallas and 15-41 against everyone else over the past four seasons. As the NFL approaches the trade deadline, fantasy managers are weighing options with Jonathan Taylor handling a season-low 62.3 percent of snaps against the Jaguars and Josh Downs requesting a trade ahead of Tuesday’s deadline.
