Notes from Thursday:
- Julio Jones expects to play in Saturday's preseason game. Jones had surgery last October on his foot and hasn't practiced in back-to-back days during camp. Seeing him perform at game speed Saturday would ease any concerns about his health. Jones currently holds an ADP of 12, according to our friends at the NFFC.
- Jordy Nelson is slated to do some work at practice on Friday. He's currently nursing a balky hamstring (isn't everyone?) and could play in Saturday's preseason game. He currently holds an ADP of 18 and the injury isn't believed to be too serious.
- Charles Sims, who has gotten a little sleeper buzz, is currently in a walking boot due to a bad ankle. Coach Lovie Smith has stated he won't be playing anytime soon and the injury sounds like it's a lot more than a day-to-day deal. While it's early to speculate on Week 1, Bobby Rainey would likely see more action if Sims was to miss any time.
- Knowshon Moreno played a large role in practice and worked with the first team. Moreno has recovered nicely from a knee scope and could make up ground on Lamar Miller between now and Week 1. The Dolphins gave him a $3 million deal this offseason so as long as he's healthy he should get a fair share of the touches. It's ok to knock Miller (ADP of 101) down a few spots as the tea leaves are a little murky when assessing touches in the backfield right now. Teammate Charles Clay remains sidelined with a knee injury. After his breakout campaign a year ago Clay could be a top-10 tight end this season once he's healthy.
- Brian Hoyer, not Johnny Manziel, will start under center for Monday night's preseason game. Manziel will split first team reps with Hoyer but with the start it would appear Hoyer is the frontrunner to start Week 1. However, Manziel will be waiting in the wings and offers more upside with his rushing ability if you decide to draft one of these two quarterbacks.
- Matt Cassel could play the whole first half of the Vikings' preseason game Saturday. He seemingly is putting some distance between him and Teddy Bridgewater. It's likely at some point Bridgewater will play but right now it's looking like that won't be the case to start the season.
- Riley Cooper and Jeremy Maclin are both likely to miss Friday night's preseason game. Cooper (foot) was able to do some work Thursday while Maclin (hamstring) sat out the entire practice. Both make interesting middle round picks in the Chip Kelly offense with Nick Foles building off a successful rookie campaign.
- Odell Beckham took part in 11-on-11 drills for the first time. Beckham had a catch-and-run for a touchdown, what he does best. He's not a big red zone target but possesses sub-4.40 forty speed which will help him stretch the defense for Eli Manning. He'll likely be a hit-or-miss fantasy player to start the season until he develops some rapport with Manning.