Impact of Mike Williams' Retirement and Najee Harris' NFI Status on Fantasy Football
Fantasy Sports/Football/Sports

Impact of Mike Williams' Retirement and Najee Harris' NFI Status on Fantasy Football

An analysis of how the recent changes in the Chargers roster will affect fantasy draft strategies, focusing on the implications of Mike Williams' retirement and Najee Harris' non-football injury designation.

The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off their training camp early this season and have undergone significant roster changes. On Thursday, Mike Williams announced his retirement, which will alter the team’s passing dynamics. Meanwhile, running back Najee Harris was placed on the active/non-football injury list due to an eye injury.

Although Williams, age 30, was not anticipated to have a considerable impact on fantasy football this year, his retirement is notable for the Chargers’ passing game. This opens opportunities for rookie Tre Harris and third-year receiver Quentin Johnston. Meanwhile, Ladd McConkey’s prospect of impacting fantasy values remains minimal. He should be targeted in the later rounds of drafts, particularly around Round 2 or 3 in all leagues.

Additionally, Justin Herbert maintains his draft position as either a late-round quarterback in standard formats or a mid-round choice in Superflex or two-quarterback leagues. Last season, Herbert averaged 19.5 fantasy points per game, and this consistency is expected to persist despite Williams’ absence, who was primarily a high-end backup.

With Williams’ retirement, Najee Harris may also see an opportunity to enhance his role after completing his holdout and signing his rookie contract. The second-round pick from Ole Miss impressed during his college tenure with 114 catches for 2,015 yards and 15 touchdowns over the last two seasons.

As for Quentin Johnston, his initial two years in the league were challenging. He managed to secure 38 catches for 431 yards and two touchdowns during his rookie year and improved to 55 grabs for 711 yards and eight touchdowns in the subsequent year. However, with the emergence of Harris and McConkey, Johnston’s prospects remain uncertain.

Finally, while the Chargers also feature bench receivers such as Jalen Reagor, Derius Davis, and rookie KeAndre Lambert-Smith, none of them warrant drafting in most fantasy leagues at this time. The Chargers’ tight ends—Tyler Conklin, Will Dissly, and Oronde Gadsden II—are set to compete for time. Despite modest fantasy relevance, those who perform well during camp could present waiver wire opportunities.

Harris’ eye injury, resulting from a fireworks accident, is expected to resolve soon. Any prolonged absence will benefit rookie Omarion Hampton, another first-round pick, who could emerge as a key player, potentially making Harris a backup in the short term.

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