Week 9 Injuries Put Backup Quarterbacks in the Fantasy Spotlight

Backup quarterbacks are central to Week 9 fantasy decisions. Carson Wentz is set to start for Minnesota against Buffalo on Monday because Kyler Murray is dealing with a hamstring injury. Wentz is considered a low-end QB2, while Justin Jefferson remains a top-12 receiver, T.J. Hockenson a top-12 tight end on the fringe, and Jordan Addison an upside WR3. The outlook also favors Joe Fagnano, who is due to make his first NFL start against Jacksonville on Thursday, though Zay Flowers is viewed as a low-end WR2 until Jacoby Brissett returns.

Cleveland is expecting Shedeur Sanders to start against New Orleans with Deshaun Watson in concussion protocol. Sanders is a low-end QB2, and Harold Fannin is ranked among the week’s top tight ends. Kansas City Concepcion and Denzel Boston are both projected as low-end WR3 options. Garrett Wilson, also in concussion protocol, is expected to miss the game, creating opportunities for Omar Cooper Jr. and Adonai Mitchell, each ranked as a high-end WR3.

Arizona could be without Zonovan Knight, leaving Tyler Allgeier in line for a larger workload despite a difficult matchup with Seattle. Cam Skattebo’s availability remains uncertain; if he sits, Devin Singletary could become a high-end flex option. Jacksonville running back Bhayshul Tuten is a game-time decision, with Chris Rodriguez an RB2 option if Tuten is unavailable.

Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel are not expected back this week. Brock Purdy remains a must-start, while Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle are expected to draw heavily on offense. Breece Hall expects to play, but he and Braelon Allen are both ranked as high-end flexes amid a projected committee and a tough matchup against Kansas City.