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The Fantasy Football draft and NFL preseason are nearly here, which means that it's time to pay close attention to any issues affecting key potential players. Every ailment is worth monitoring, as it could impact the value of a pick during the draft. Here are five noteworthy injuries to keep track of right now:
Five injuries to track before the Fantasy Football draft
1. Jahmyr Gibbs
Gibbs left Monday's practice early with a hamstring injury, as first reported by The Athletic's Colton Pouncy. Although it is not known how long he will be out, hamstring issues can be pesky, especially for running backs and other skill-position players.
His status should be closely monitored as one might consider drafting the former Pro Bowler for what is sure to be a breakout sophomore season.
2. J.J. McCarthy
McCarthy might have been an enticing pick for fantasy managers, given he's in QB heaven and will eventually be a starter. This had sleeper pick written all over it, but it is no longer the case as he suffered a knee injury on Saturday.
McCarthy tore his meniscus, so the Minnesota Vikings QB will need surgery. There is no current timeline for his return, but it will probably be much longer than the amount of time many are willing to wait.
3. Nick Chubb
According to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi, Cleveland Browns GM Andrew Berry shared at the end of July that Nick Chubb still has ways to go before completing his rehab. That's not an ideal update, as it means he is still several weeks away from activation at the earliest.
Chubb suffered a torn ACL last year from a brutal hit. It's unlikely that he will be back for a while. When he does return, he possibly won't be at full strength for some time. Therefore, weigh the risk factors carefully and consider alternatives with our Fantasy Football analyzer.
4. Justin Herbert
Herbert finished last season on the Injured Reserve, so he is worth monitoring during the Fantasy Football draft. However, according to USA Today, the LA Chargers are confident that he will be ready by early September when the season begins.
While the injury he sustained last year has healed, the QB has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, which has him in a walking boot for two weeks. After that, he should be back to normal in time for the season opener.
5. Puka Nacua
Nacua suffered a knee injury during a joint practice over a week ago. According to The Athletic's writer Jourdan Rodrigue, coach Sean McVay said that the injury is not structural and expects Nacua, the former standout rookie, to be ready when the LA Rams open the season.
However, Nacua is still not back at practice, which is worth monitoring. Last year, wide receiver Cooper Kupp was drafted early despite injuries and ended up being a Fantasy Football bust.
