As college football practices ramp up, CFF managers eagerly anticipate any updates that will influence our draft strategies and player evaluations. This week brings significant news on several players whose health and integration into their respective teams are poised to impact their fantasy potential.
These updates not only affect team dynamics but also offer valuable insights for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge in their leagues. Here’s a closer look at five of the biggest headlines from college football practices around the country.
Latest College Football News with CFF Impact
Cade McNamara Fully Participates in Practice
Cade McNamara’s return to full practice participation is a significant development for the Iowa Hawkeyes. After missing most of the 2023 season due to a knee injury, McNamara is now fully involved in training and drills, as reported by David Eickholt of 247Sports.com. This is the first time since his transfer to Iowa that McNamara has been able to fully engage in the team’s activities.
With a full offseason to recover and prepare, McNamara is set to bring a revitalized dynamic to the Hawkeyes’ offense. Reflecting on his last full season with Michigan in 2021, McNamara threw for 2,576 yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing his potential to lead an effective offensive unit. Fantasy managers should take note of McNamara’s potential to rebound and deliver strong performances this season.
Peyton Lewis Fully Integrated into Tennessee’s Offense
Freshman running back Peyton Lewis is making strides in Tennessee’s football program. After undergoing a cleanup surgery earlier in the year, Lewis is now fully healthy and integrated back into the team’s activities, according to Grant Ramey of On3.com. The former four-star recruit from Salem, VA, is ranked as the third or fourth back on the Volunteers’ depth chart but has the potential to climb higher if he stays healthy.
Lewis’ playstyle is well-suited to thrive in head coach Josh Heupel’s fast-paced offense. His ability to adapt quickly and his big-play build make him a potential breakout candidate. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on Lewis as a possible sleeper pick who could contribute significantly if he secures a more prominent role in Tennessee’s backfield.
Rocket Sanders Set to Be Ready by Preseason Camp
Rocket Sanders, the Gamecocks’ running back, is on track to be healthy by preseason camp for the first time since November 2023. Sanders had a challenging 2023 season due to a series of injuries that hampered his performance. However, he is now aiming to return to his impressive 2022 form, where he accumulated over 1,500 scrimmage yards and ten touchdowns with Arkansas.
If Sanders can stay healthy, he has the potential to be a valuable asset in fantasy football. His previous performance demonstrates his capability to produce high yardage and scoring opportunities. Fantasy managers should monitor his progress closely as he prepares for the upcoming season.
Jalon Daniels is Fully Healthy
Quarterback Jalon Daniels is entering the new season in full health, a promising sign for the team’s offensive prospects. The former three-star recruit from Lawndale, CA, only played three games last season due to recurring back injuries. Despite this, Daniels showed considerable promise by completing 56 of 75 passes (74.7 percent) for 705 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception, along with 27 carries for 74 yards across his limited appearances.
Daniels is expected to be the starting quarterback, provided he remains injury-free. His accuracy and dual-threat capabilities make him an intriguing option for fantasy managers looking for a reliable quarterback. Keeping an eye on his health and preseason performance will be crucial for those considering him in their drafts.
Trent Howland Impressing Coaches
Newly transferred running back Trent Howland is making a strong impression in practice, as reported by McClain Baxley of 247sports.com. With AJ Green, the team’s expected RB2, sidelined for most of the season, Howland has an opportunity to secure a significant role behind Ollie Gordon, one of the top backs in college football.
In 2023 with Indiana, Howland rushed for 354 yards and two touchdowns on 75 carries, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. His performance in practice indicates he could be a valuable addition to the team’s rushing attack. Fantasy managers should consider Howland as a potential late-round pick or waiver wire target if he continues to perform well and earns substantial playing time.