Breaking News: Jarrick Bernard-Converse’s doctor has announced that he will be sidelined for three months due to an injury following………….

Everything in the NFL takes on additional meaning when viewed through the lens of fantasy football. Position battles, injuries, and other events in the news cycle continuously impact player values. Our fantasy football buzz report, created by ESPN’s fantasy writers and NFL Nation reporters, is designed to give fantasy managers crucial updates as they unfold.

Key resources: Draft Guide | Cheat Sheet Central | Fantasy Depth Charts

Sept. 13: 49ers rule out Christian McCaffrey, possible IR consideration

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan announced Friday that star running back Christian McCaffrey will miss the upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings. There’s even talk of placing him on injured reserve.

On Monday, backup Jordan Mason stepped in, rushing for 147 yards and a touchdown. Currently ranked as the 11th-best running back in ESPN’s fantasy rankings, Mason is available in 13.6% of leagues. Mike Clay speculated on Fantasy Focus that Mason could lead all RBs in fantasy points given his current opportunity.

Sept. 13: Hollywood Brown out for months, other injury news

The Kansas City Chiefs placed wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown on IR due to a preseason shoulder injury that requires surgery. Head coach Andy Reid noted Brown’s recovery will take months. This solidifies Xavier Worthy as the Chiefs’ No. 2 receiver behind Rashee Rice.

Other injury notes: Bengals wideout Tee Higgins missed Friday’s practice and may sit out his second game in a row, while Giants rookie receiver Malik Nabers is expected to play Sunday against Washington despite an injury scare earlier in the week.

Sept. 11: McCaffrey’s Week 2 status in doubt

McCaffrey was held out of the 49ers’ Week 1 game with lingering calf and Achilles issues. He is listed as day-to-day, but recovery could take longer than expected. If McCaffrey sits out, Jordan Mason will take the lead role, with Mason currently ranked in the top 20 RBs for Week 2.

Sept. 11: Njoku out for Browns, Akins to step up

Browns tight end David Njoku is out for Week 2 against the Jaguars. Jordan Akins will see additional playing time, though fantasy managers might consider Juwan Johnson from the Saints as a better temporary replacement.

Sept. 11: Dolphins’ RBs questionable for Thursday

Raheem Mostert has been ruled out for Thursday’s game against the Bills due to a chest injury, while De’Von Achane is listed as a game-time decision. Achane is ranked as a top 15 RB, though backup Jaylen Wright is ranked lower, except by Eric Sept. 10: Higgins uncertain, other Bengals WRs underwhelming

Fantasy managers should have a backup plan for Tee Higgins in Week 2. After missing Week 1 with a hamstring injury, there’s doubt about his return for Week 2. Despite Joe Burrow’s struggles, Ja’Marr Chase remains the only Bengals receiver worth considering for fantasy, while Zack Moss and Chase Brown are low-end flex options.

Sept. 9: Top McCaffrey replacements

With McCaffrey out for Week 1, Jordan Mason is expected to carry the load for the 49ers. Patrick Taylor Jr. and Isaac Guerendo are also active, but Mason’s preseason performance makes him a solid option. Deebo Samuel could see more rushing attempts, increasing his value for fantasy managers.