Javonte Williams (RB, Dallas Cowboys)
Past Injury History: The specter of Williams' devastating 2022 knee injury, which included tears to his ACL, LCL, and posterolateral corner, still looms large for many fantasy managers. That type of multi-ligament injury is notoriously difficult to return from, and it often takes a player more than a full year to regain their pre-injury form. His 2023 and 2024 seasons in Denver were marked by inconsistency and a noticeable lack of his signature tackle-breaking explosiveness.
Current Status and Rumors: Now with the Dallas Cowboys, the reports out of training camp have been overwhelmingly positive. Williams is reportedly fully healthy and has been seeing the majority of the first-team reps. He appears to have finally put the lingering effects of the injury behind him. The Cowboys acquired him in the offseason, indicating a belief that he can be a key contributor in their backfield.
Prediction and Outlook: Williams is one of the most intriguing "post-hype sleepers" in this year's drafts. While the memory of his injury has suppressed his draft cost, he is now multiple years removed from the surgery and appears to be the lead back on a potent offense. He is a fantastic RB3 target with a clear path to RB2 production if he can maintain his health and hold off the competition. The risk is baked into his current price, making him a high-upside pick in the middle rounds.
Drake London (WR, Atlanta Falcons)
Past Injury History: London has been plagued by a series of minor but nagging injuries throughout his young career, including groin, hamstring, and knee issues that have landed him on the injury report frequently. While he has shown an impressive ability to play through these ailments and has not missed significant time, the accumulation of soft-tissue injuries is a concern for any receiver.
Current Status and Rumors: London entered training camp fully healthy and has been a full participant in all drills. He has reportedly shown no ill effects from the injuries that bothered him late last season. The Falcons have been cautious with his reps in the preseason, but all indications are that he is 100% ready for Week 1.
Prediction and Outlook: This is a make-or-break year for London. He now has a significant upgrade at the quarterback position, and the team's offense is expected to be much more pass-heavy. If he can stay on the field, he has a clear path to a massive target share and a true breakout season. His injury history makes him slightly riskier than other receivers in his draft range, but his talent and opportunity give him a top-15 ceiling. He's a classic risk/reward pick who could be a league-winner if he avoids the minor injuries that have held him back.
Quick Hits: Other Injuries to Monitor
Quentin Johnston (WR, Los Angeles Chargers): Johnston suffered a concussion after taking a hard hit in this past weekend's game and was hospitalized as a precaution. His status for Week 1 is now in serious doubt. Concussions are unpredictable, and the team will likely be very cautious with their young receiver. This injury opens the door for other Chargers receivers to see an increased target share to start the season.
De'Von Achane (RB, Miami Dolphins): Achane is dealing with a calf injury, a notoriously tricky soft-tissue issue. He is expected to miss at least a week, but the team is optimistic he will be ready for Week 1. However, any setback could linger and impact his early-season workload. This makes him a slightly riskier pick, but his explosive upside keeps him in the RB2 conversation.