Dynasty News, Week 8

Photo: USA Today Sports

Here's a quick rundown of the top dynasty news that matters.

QB Kyler Murray, Arizona

Last Wednesday, the Arizona Cardinals designated quarterback Kyler Murray to return from the PUP list, thus opening his 21-day window to return to the field. Beat reporter Darren Urban wrote on the team's website, "Wednesday will be Murray's first practice with the team since he tore up his knee Dec. 12, more than 10 months ago. Murray will be eligible to play at any time, although Murray will likely need at least two, if not all, three weeks to ramp back up. If Murray were to take all three weeks, his first game on the 53-man roster would be the Nov. 12 home game against the Falcons … The Cardinals could use an offensive boost. The team is last in the league in both second-half scoring and fourth-quarter scoring. The fourth quarter has been especially harsh, with opponents leading the Cardinals, 64-7." On Wednesday, coach Gannon was asked by reporters "How much can (K1) do today?" and he responded, "Full go." Murray practiced again on Thursday without a setback so he could return very soon. Ian Rapoport reported that the Cardinals are encouraging Murray's return as they want to evaluate his future. With two first-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft and a 1-6 record, Arizona must decide whether to build around Murray or a rookie.

QB Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Colts are taking the long-term approach to Anthony Richardson's shoulder injury. Last week, it was reported that he would undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the season after injuring his AC joint. Richardson flashed immense potential and could have used the game and practice experience in the second half of the season. Most dynasty rankings will have the young quarterback in the top 5 at the position next summer. The future is bright. For now, the Colts will start journeyman Gardner Minshew in hopes he can lead the team to the playoffs.

QB Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee

Jeff Darlington reported last week that Tennessee quarterback Ryan Tannehill will not require surgery on his injured ankle. According to Darlington, Tannehill is "currently in a cast diagnosed with a high ankle sprain, and there's no definitive timeline for recovery." He is unlikely to return to full speed this week, even after the bye. Malik Willis should get another start, much to the chagrin of fantasy managers … especially those starting Derrick Henry and DeAndre Hopkins.

QB Deshaun Watson, Cleveland

Deshaun Watson started the game against Indianapolis on Sunday but left after taking a big hit. He was checked for a concussion but was cleared to return. During the broadcast, the announcers said the team was "playing it safe" by keeping Watson out. Coach Stefanski told reporters after the game that Watson will play next week. This seems like a fluid situation, so dynasty managers should have emergency options at the position in case Watson's shoulder acts up this week.

QB Mac Jones, New England

Beat writer Mike Giardi wrote last week that some in the New England Patriots building are already looking ahead to next season and would rather "have more losses than a win or two that could cost draft positioning". With a 2-5 record after the upset over Buffalo, the Patriots have a shot at a top rookie quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft. The win was coach Bill Belichick's 300th career regular season win. He is the third coach to achieve the feat. Mac Jones has been serviceable but far from able to elevate the middling talent around him. There were questions about Bill Belichick's future as both coach and general manager entering the weekend, but Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning that the long-time coach quietly agreed to a new multi-year contract this past offseason. New England is a team in transition and needs young stars on offense.