Analyzing the Preseason Week 2 Fantasy Football Performance: Miami Dolphins…

The Texans’ Offensive Outlook: Dameon Pierce’s Expanded Role

A standout player in the Texans’ preseason game, running back Dameon Pierce showcased a potential expanded role in the team’s offense. Pierce played every snap on the first two drives, including those on medium or long third downs, a departure from last season where he was often off the field on third downs. While it’s too early to guarantee his role in the regular season, this preseason performance hints at a shift in strategy by the Texans. Some teams have opted not to rotate players in the preseason, only to change their approach once the regular season begins. The open opportunity for Pierce to have a greater role in the regular season is promising. However, it remains to be seen if this will be the case as the season progresses. Pierce played only two drives in the game, with Devin Singletary taking over on the third drive.

Wide Receiver Depth Chart for the Texans

The Texans’ wide receiver depth chart became clearer in the preseason game. Robert Woods, Nico Collins, and Noah Brown were the clear starters for the game. Woods and Brown had the previous week off, while Collins started ahead of Brown. However, during several two-receiver sets, Brown was in instead of Collins. John Metchie III, the slot receiver in Week 1, didn’t play until the third drive, while Brown took a drive off. It’s difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the roles of Woods, Collins, or Brown without knowing how much a healthy Tank Dell would have played. One thing that is clear is that Brown is ahead of Metchie for the slot role. Dell was in street clothes due to tightness, but there are no long-term concerns according to coach DeMeco Ryans.

Impact on Dalton Schultz’s Playing Time

During the game, it was evident that Dalton Schultz’s playing time could be limited. Teagan Quitoriano started for the Texans instead of Schultz. While Schultz consistently played in 11 personnel, he was always off the field when either Andrew Beck or Dalton Keene were on the field with Quitoriano. The Texans also utilized a 12-personnel package with both Schultz and Quitoriano. However, on the third drive, backups were introduced into the game, including a play with Dalton Keene and Nick Vannett at tight end, even though Schultz was still on the field. This situation might impact Schultz’s touchdown potential, but it shouldn’t significantly affect his volume. He is expected to be a borderline fantasy starter this season, but his upside may be limited.

De’Von Achane’s Position on the Depth Chart

De’Von Achane remains fifth on the Texans’ depth chart and didn’t see his first offensive snap until the middle of the second quarter. Raheem Mostert started for the Miami Dolphins, with Salvon Ahmed also taking snaps with the starters. While Jeff Wilson Jr. has missed both preseason games, he is presumed to be ahead of Achane. Myles Gaskin started the preseason ahead of Achane, while Achane received his first offensive snap. Although Achane is unlikely to lose his roster spot due to his special teams abilities, it seems that he might not see much playing time on offense early in the season. However, given Achane’s talent, there is a possibility that he could earn more playing time as the season progresses and could potentially become a starter. Unfortunately, Achane was carted off the field and to the locker room in the third quarter due to injury, which is certainly concerning. This injury may further delay when he could start seeing time with the starters.

Insights into the Dolphins’ Wide Receiver Depth Chart

With more wide receivers available for the Dolphins in the second preseason game, the team’s depth chart became clearer. Cedrick Wilson Jr. and River Cracraft started the first preseason game, with Braxton Berrios coming in for three-receiver sets. However, in the second game, Tyreek Hill and Robbie Chosen started, indicating that Chosen is ahead of Wilson and Cracraft on the depth chart. Once Jaylen Waddle is ready to play, he will likely replace Chosen in the starting lineup. However, Chosen should see plenty of playing time when Hill or Waddle need a break. Berrios consistently played as the third player in three-receiver sets but didn’t see playing time in two-receiver sets. Berrios is the most likely backup to have standalone fantasy value, while Chosen will be the top handcuff option. Wilson did not play any snaps with the first team in this game, raising the possibility that he may not make the team.

Conclusion and Fantasy Outlook

The preseason games provide insight into potential player usage and depth chart positions. While there are still uncertainties, these games offer valuable information for fantasy football players. As the regular season approaches, it is essential to pay attention to player performances, strategy shifts, and injuries. By staying informed and analyzing these developments, fantasy football managers can make informed decisions in their drafts and throughout the season.