Fantasy Football Today: Rankings Risers! CMC vs. Barkley, Bears Offense and More (08/02 Fantasy Football Podcast) Released on August 4, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Fantasy Football Today hosted by Adam Aizer alongside analysts Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, and Heath Cummings, the team dives deep into the latest updates and adjustments ahead of the upcoming NFL season. With training camps in full swing and preseason games approaching, the hosts discuss rankings risers and fallers, player performances, injury updates, and strategic insights to help listeners dominate their fantasy leagues.
Rankings: Risers and Fallers
Kyler Murray's Ascension Dave kicks off the rankings by highlighting Kyler Murray's significant rise in his quarterback rankings. [05:45] Dave states, "I'm kind of toying with the idea of putting him top 10 if not higher," emphasizing Murray's improved pass rush and potential rebound year.
Tedro McMillan Moves Up Heath highlights Tedro McMillan, a first-round rookie wide receiver, as a notable riser. [06:37] Heath mentions, "He's winning in a variety of ways," suggesting McMillan's versatility and potential as a top wide receiver.
Marion Hampton's Surge Jamie identifies Marion Hampton as a borderline top 12 running back, especially in the absence of Najee Harris. [08:33] Jamie explains, "I'm taking him over James Cook without hesitation," indicating Hampton's promising performance during training camp.
Saquon Barkley vs. Christian McCaffrey: Injury Risk Debate A pivotal discussion arises around the safety of Saquon Barkley versus Christian McCaffrey concerning injury risks. The Twitter poll results show a preference for Barkley being safer, with 74% voting "yes" [02:34]. Dave counters this by emphasizing McCaffrey's upside, stating, "He can score like a top six fantasy quarterback from the running back position" [26:29].
Bears Offense and Player Insights
Caleb Williams' Struggles The Bears' quarterback Caleb Williams is under scrutiny due to a rocky training camp and a disappointing rookie season. The hosts express concerns about his ability to support a wide receiver-heavy offense. [70:09] Adam remarks, "Caleb Williams is having such a terrible camp right now after having a really bad rookie year. It's scary."
Jalen Waddle vs. Rookie Receivers The discussion compares veteran receivers like Jalen Waddle against rookies such as Travis Hunter. Heath prefers Waddle for his established performance, stating, "Waddle is the top five wide receiver" [73:12], while Jamie sees potential in taking late-round flyers on rookies if they prove themselves early in the season.
Running Backs Preview
Tank Bigsby's Potential Tank Bigsby emerges as a key player for the Jaguars, with Jamie noting, "Tank Bigsby is going to be the starting running back in a shared situation" [51:58]. The analysts discuss his role in a potentially improved offense led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Joe Mixon's Value Joe Mixon's recovery from a foot and ankle injury is cautiously optimistic, with Dave stating, "We've seen it in Sean Payton's offenses in the past has been very, very good for fantasy" [31:08]. Jamie adds, "I'm hopeful that at some point by week four, I can potentially start him."
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends
Nico Collins and Brian Thomas Jr. Rising Jamie points out Nico Collins and Brian Thomas Jr. as significant risers in the wide receiver rankings. [57:04] He highlights Thomas's performance, "he caught two touchdowns from Lawrence in their scrimmage the other day."
Pat Friaruth as a Tight End Asset Pittsburgh's tight end Pat Friaruth is praised as the "unquestioned number one tight end," with Mark Cabali noting his importance to the offense. [38:42] Dave adds, "John who being versatile adds extra blockers, which is a win for Pittsburgh."
Injury Updates and Their Impact
Austin Jackson's Leg Injury Miami's offensive tackle Austin Jackson is out for a few weeks with a leg injury, affecting the team's offensive line performance. [40:02] Adam mentions, "Devon Hn averaged four and a half yards per carry with Jackson on the field and only 4.4 yards per carry with him off the field."
Khalil Shakir's High Ankle Sprain Buffalo's Khalil Shakir deals with a high ankle sprain, raising concerns about his reliability. Dave advises caution, "We have seen high ankle sprains capsize people's fantasy seasons" [35:12].
Strategic Insights and Draft Tips
Late-Round Quarterbacks: Anthony Richardson and Jordan Love Jamie recommends targeting Anthony Richardson and Jordan Love in the later rounds as valuable backups with high upside. [41:36] He explains, "Richardson... could be a cheat code for fantasy."
Valuing Running Backs in a Committee Approach With reports suggesting a committee approach for running backs in teams like Kansas City and Jacksonville, the hosts discuss the strategic drafting of running backs who can thrive in shared backfields. [49:33] Dave notes, "There was a report that it should be more of a committee than what we've seen under this coaching staff."
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the NFL season looms closer, Fantasy Football Today provides listeners with actionable insights and updates to refine their fantasy teams. From quarterback rankings to the impact of injuries on key players, the podcast equips fantasy managers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. The episode wraps up with plans for upcoming previews and continued analysis to keep listeners ahead of the fantasy football curve.
Notable Quotes:
- Dave Richard at [05:45]: "I'm kind of toying with the idea of putting him top 10 if not higher."
- Jamie Eisenberg at [08:33]: "I'm taking him over James Cook without hesitation."
- Adam Aizer at [70:09]: "Caleb Williams is having such a terrible camp right now after having a really bad rookie year. It's scary."
- Heath Cummings at [73:12]: "Waddle is the top five wide receiver."
Stay tuned for more detailed analyses and strategic advice in future episodes of Fantasy Football Today to ensure your fantasy team remains competitive throughout the season!