wednesday night rewind - 09/10/26
NFL KICKOFF FANTASY RECAP
SEAHAWKS 13, PATRIOTS 10
Jaxon Smith-Njigba delivered the biggest fantasy performance of the night, catching the game-tying 45-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Even in a low-scoring game, his role and splash-play usage reinforce his weekly WR1/2 fantasy value.
Drew Lock took over after Sam Darnold exited early and completed 16-of-22 passes for 187 yards, one TD, and no interceptions. In Superflex leagues, Lock is a priority speculative add until Darnold’s injury outlook is known.
Drake Maye threw three interceptions, including the final one in the end zone with New England in position to tie the game. The turnover-heavy finish makes him a risky Week 2 fantasy start despite the likely passing volume.
A.J. Brown posted 3 catches for 26 yards before leaving in the third quarter. His lost 34-yard pass-interference play does not count in fantasy scoring, and the injury ended what had been a quiet debut.
INJURY WATCH
Sam Darnold — Right hip
Darnold was injured on Seattle’s opening drive, ruled out before halftime, and did not return. Initial testing reportedly indicated no fracture, but he underwent a CT scan and was scheduled for an MRI Thursday.
FANTASY TAKE: Hold Darnold until the MRI results; add Drew Lock in Superflex or deep QB formats.
A.J. Brown — Right ankle
Brown was injured early in the third quarter and ruled out. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel did not have a postgame update.
FANTASY TAKE: Do not drop Brown. Plan for him to be questionable heading into Week 2; Demario Douglas becomes a deeper PPR waiver consideration if Brown misses time.
WAIVER/LINEUP NOTES
Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Start confidently as a high-end WR2 with WR1 upside.
Drew Lock: Add in Superflex; temporary QB2 value with Darnold’s status unresolved.
A.J. Brown: Bench only if he cannot practice; retain everywhere.
Patriots receivers: Douglas is the best contingency add if Brown is sidelined, but New England’s 10-point output limits the group’s ceiling.
