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As we enter Week 6 of the 2023 season, I want to share some tips, advice, and thoughts on various players, teams, and situations. With all of the outlets and resources available now, it is becoming more difficult to separate yourself from the rest of the pack when it comes to knowledge and strategy. To gain that extra edge, you have to make proactive moves that cash in, plan ahead, know your players' schedules, read helpful columns, and, above all, execute the game plan for success. In no particular order, here are a few items that can help you gain that edge.
Be Aware of Players Returning from Injury as Well as Players Benefiting From an Injury
- Austin Ekeler RB, LAC - Austin Ekeler is returning from a high ankle sprain and might be available to play Week 6 against Dallas. Even though he can return, it doesn't mean he will be back to his pre-injury form. We often see with players with a high-ankle injury, running backs, especially, see lingering effects for several weeks. While it's great to get him back into your lineup, temper your expectations on his effectiveness.
- Joe Burrow QB, CIN - Joe Burrow has had a calf strain since August that he re-injured in September. Soft-tissue injuries like this can be tricky to recover from quickly. He finally broke through with a big game last week, which is a good indicator that he might've turned the corner on his route to recovery.
- Diontae Johnson WR, PIT - The Steelers have a Week 6 bye, but Johnson is expected to return for Week 7. Be sure to get him back in your lineup. He had 147 targets last year.
- Cooper Kupp WR, LAR - So far, in one game back from a hamstring strain and re-injury, Cooper Kupp looks like his old self, racking up the targets and catches. Puka Nacua isn't going away, so don't necessarily expect Kupp to dominate targets like he has in the past. He should still be a high-end fantasy option, regardless.
- Aaron Jones RB, GB - Aaron Jones is working on a hamstring strain recovery, and after returning in Week 4, he sat out Week 5. The Packers have a bye in Week 6, which means he'll likely return in Week 7, barring a setback. For those of you who weathered the storm keeping him on your bench, Jones' return will be a welcomed addition to your lineup.
- Javonte Williams RB, DEN - A quad injury kept Williams out of Week 5, but he is already taking part in full practices this week. He should be able to return to play on Thursday night against the Chiefs. A full load as the primary back may be a tough ask, though. Denver has weapons in the backfield in addition to Williams - namely Jaleel McLoughlin and Samaje Perine.
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba WR, SEA - A preseason wrist injury has slowed Smith-Njigba's ascent in the league, but the Seahawks also have plenty of options without him. It will be good to see him at 100%, but a fast rise to stardom may not be the case.
- Amon-Ra St. Brown WR, DET - An abdominal strain of sorts shelved St. Brown in Week 5. However, early signs this week speak of him returning to the field in Week 6. Monitor his practice status. If he has a full practice on Friday, he should be good to go.
- Deshaun Watson QB, CLE - Deshaun Watson's shoulder injury timed up well with the Browns Week 5 bye. He is expected to return to the field for Cleveland in Week 6 against San Francisco.
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