The first week of the 2026 National Football League regular season begins on Wednesday from Seattle. Here are some of the key injuries, fantasy stars and projected upsets.
Key Injuries
There has been a strong correlation between the San Francisco 49ers and injuries. It feels like every week we discuss a 49ers ailment, That trend continued this week when defensive tackle Alfred Collins of Bastrop, Texas tore his patellar tendon during the 49ers practice in Australia and is gone for the season. Collins is one of two 49ers players who are out at this time. According to Nick Wagoner of ESPN, defensive end Sam Okuayinonu is out with a broken foot that will require surgery.
Among other players not playing week one include Detroit Lions running back Isiah Pacheco (back), and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee).
Fantasy Stars
The top rated quarterback is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. He is projected to get 289 passing yards and two touchdowns against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The top rated running back is Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions. He is projected to get 93 rushing yards and 34 receiving yards, and one touchdown against the New Orleans Saints. The top rated wide receiver is Ja’Marr Chase of the Bengals. He is projected to get eight catches for 94 receiving yards and one touchdown.
Projected Upsets
I like two underdogs in week one. I like the Houston Texans to beat the Buffalo Bills and the Denver Broncos to beat the Kansas City Chiefs. Remember, the Bills lost to the Houston Texans last year 23-19, and the Broncos won the AFC West last year and won eight more games than the Chiefs.
