One week down, and the injuries are already piling up for key fantasy players. In this NFL Week 2 injury updates and fantasy outlook, we break down what to expect from Drake London and Jaylen Waddle as they play through shoulder issues, why Brock Purdy and George Kittle are set to miss time, and how their returns could affect your lineups. All of that, plus quick notes on the rest of this week’s biggest injury storylines, below.
Quarterbacks
Brock Purdy
Injury: Left shoulder / Toe
Purdy is expected to miss Week 2 and possibly Week 3 with a toe injury. Kyle Shanahan’s description suggests a collateral ligament injury of the big toe, which is slightly different from typical turf toe, but the function and return to play are similar. Shanahan won’t say which toe, but the video shows his right foot/toe getting trapped, making a right-side injury possible, although it is not confirmed. A right big-toe issue can impact push-off, reducing throw power and accuracy. With a 2–5 week timeline, this likely reflects a grade II injury with some tissue laxity. These can linger, but for a pure pocket passer like Purdy, once pain and range of motion are restored, he should play well.
Primary beneficiary if time missed: Mac Jones
Running Backs
James Cook
Injury: Hamstring Injury
Analysis: Cook was initially limited in practice with a mild hamstring injury but has been full-go since Thursday. His limitation on Wednesday was likely soreness or a veteran rest day, and the typical 20–30% recurrence rate with hamstring injuries is not going to apply to Cook. Running backs average no drop-off in fantasy production in their first game back, making Cook a safe, high-upside play for Week 2.
Jonathan Taylor
Injury: Neck Injury
Analysis: Taylor is completely fine after appearing to have a minor neck injury in week 1. This will not affect him.