Week 1 fantasy rankings shift as Herbert rises and Purdy falls

Justin Herbert has surged from a marginal season-long QB1 to almost the top-ranked quarterback in Heath Cummings’ Week 1 projections, according to CBS Sports. Cummings says Herbert is a must-start unless managers also roster Jalen Hurts.

Rhamondre Stevenson has moved into borderline RB1 territory amid expectations that TreVeyon Henderson may not play. Cummings projects Stevenson for 17 carries and says his receiving work could support a strong fantasy result despite concerns about the defence and the Patriots’ status as road underdogs.

MarShawn Lloyd and Zach Charbonnet are also projected as lead running backs and possible RB2 options. Their outlooks are linked to uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs and Kenneth Walker III, while Cummings says Charbonnet could face some competition for work from George Holani.

At receiver, DK Metcalf and Tre Tucker have emerged as potential Week 1 risers after being identified as the leading receivers for their respective teams. Cummings sees Metcalf as a borderline WR2 with scope for a higher finish, while Tucker benefits from a favourable projected scoring environment for the Raiders.

Brock Purdy has dropped outside Cummings’ top 15 quarterbacks because of concerns about the Rams’ defence. Kyler Murray and Tyler Shough are suggested alternatives, while George Kittle, Mike Evans and De’Zhaun Stribling also carry concerns. Christian McCaffrey is the only 49ers player Cummings particularly wants to start, although even his projection has fallen.

Cummings stressed that the rankings remain subject to change as injury reports, betting lines and other developments emerge during the week. He also remains cautious about starting rookie and backup running backs unless a clear workload opportunity develops.