Quarterback is the easiest position to replace in fantasy football, but losing a top passer can throw a wrench into the plans of fantasy owners . Cam Newton's positive COVID diagnosis last week sent Newton's owners scrambling for replacements at the position, and many will be focused on finding streamers again this week. Injuries to Drew Lock and Jimmy Garoppolo also caused problems for fantasy owners, though those were more for the owners of Broncos and 49ers receivers. Either way, we'll be watching the health of all three QBs closely this week, as they will have big impacts on start 'em, sit 'em decisions for fantasy owners.
For more on injured RBs Zack Moss and Raheem Mostert, click here; for injury updates on key WRs, including Julio Jones and Michael Thomas, go here. For more injury updates on these players and other players across the NFL, check back here and on Twitter @SN_Fantasy.
WEEK 5 STANDARD RANKINGS:
Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end | D/ST | Kicker
Is Cam Newton playing Week 5?
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Newton is unlikely to play for the Patriots against Denver after testing positive for coronavirus last week. This isn't a major surprise, as Newton, who is asymptomatic, would have to test negative twice in a row separated by more than 24 hours to make the return. The Patriots are on bye in Week 6 anyway, so if they sit Newton the extra week, that gives him extra time to get healthy and would help mitigate the risk of potential COVID exposure to the team.
It's unclear who will start in place of Newton, but Brian Hoyer got the nod last week. He struggled with turnovers and key sacks before ceding snaps late to Jarrett Stidham, who also had some issues turning the ball over. Neither would be a recommended fantasy play, and Newton's absence would likely be more of a positive for the running game (extra carries) than the passing game (downtick in ceiling for Julian Edelman, N'Keal Harry, Damiere Byrd). If Newton is indeed out, Denver's D/ST becomes a worthwhile streaming option.
WEEK 5 FANTASY: Sleepers | Busts | Start 'em, sit 'em
Is Jimmy Garoppolo playing in Week 5?
UPDATE 2: Garoppolo has officially been announced as the 49ers starter for Week 5.
UPDATE: Garoppolo practiced and was reportedly "moving around well" on Thursday.
Garoppolo (ankle) has missed the 49ers last two games after coming out at halftime of their Week 2 win over the Jets with a high-ankle sprain. Now, it looks like he'll have a chance to see the field in Week 5 against the Dolphins.
According to the team's injury report, Garoppolo logged a limited session on Wednesday. That's a sign that he'll at least have a chance to play in Week 5 if he can continue that level of production. And if he can get upgraded to full participation either Thursday or Friday, then that will be even better for his chances.
If Garoppolo plays, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle should all get stock ups, as they'll be able to make more downfield plays against a Dolphins defense that has allowed 31 points twice in its four games this season. If Garoppolo is out, they all will get a slight downgrade whether it's Nick Mullens or C.J. Beathard making the start for San Francisco.
WEEK 5 PPR RANKINGS:
Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end | D/ST | Kicker
Drew Lock injury update
According to ABC Denver, Lock (shoulder) returned to practice for the Broncos on Wednesday. The team's young quarterback was limited to individual drills, but this still is a good sign that Lock could be available for Week 5 after being deemed a "50-50 shot" earlier in the week.
Lock's return will give a boost to his top receivers, Jerry Jeudy and Tim Patrick, given his strong arm and ability to get the ball downfield. However, Lock himself still isn't a recommended start until we can see how well he throws. He's also facing a tough matchup with the Patriots, though the Pats won't have CB Stephon Gilmore after a positive COVID test. Still, Lock only deserves potential starter consideration in two-QB and Superflex leagues.
