The start of the 2026 fantasy football season brings injury concerns for several key players. Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams, who has struggled with a groin injury through the preseason, was not listed on the Rams’ official injury report and is expected to play against the 49ers in Australia. Rams fans and fantasy managers can be optimistic about starting Nacua given his strong performance last season, which included 166 targets and solid production against the 49ers.

Ashton Jeanty, running back for the Las Vegas Raiders, suffered a low-ankle sprain during practice on August 23 but has a good chance to participate in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins. Raiders’ coach Klint Kubiak remains hopeful Jeanty will start, though he might have a limited role, with Mike Washington Jr. ready to fill in if needed. Jeanty’s snap count limitation might impact his workload, but he remains a recommended start in fantasy leagues.

The Arizona Cardinals face uncertainty with running back Jeremiyah Love, who is dealing with an ankle injury as the Cardinals prepare for their game versus the Chargers. Drafted third overall, Love is positioned as the second running back on the team’s depth chart and may have his playing time limited. If active, Love should still contribute in fantasy lineups, given his expected role. Backup Tyler Allgeier may see increased opportunities if Love’s snaps are reduced.

Other notable injuries include Malik Nabers of the New York Giants, working his way back from an ACL tear while practicing but likely to have limited snaps, and George Kittle of the 49ers, who is recovering from a January Achilles tear and expected to have a managed workload but remains a valuable red-zone target. Additionally, Green Bay’s Tucker Kraft is coming off an ACL injury but showed big-play ability last season, while New England’s TreVeyon Henderson was ruled out Week 1 due to an ankle injury, elevating Rhamondre Stevenson as the lead back. Fantasy managers should monitor these players closely as the season kicks off.