Fantasy Football Week 9: 3 players to flex
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts could be a player to flex in Week 9 fantasy football matchups given the Cincinnati Bengals' trouble covering the position.
Falcons
Latest news and updates about the Falcons
NFC Notes: James Pearce, Falcons, Panthers & Saints Coaching Changes
Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich says returning DE James Pearce Jr. will ease into a primary pass‑rush role, with his snap count adjusted based on performance. Panthers interim DC Todd Wash pushes for ultra‑fast defensive adjustments, emphasizes a shift toward 3‑4 personnel, and aims to free DT Derrick Brown from double teams, while noting former LB coach Mayur Chaudhari’s departure. Saints fire run‑game coordinator T.J. Paganetti before Week 9, handing rushing duties to OL coach Brendan Nugent as head coach Kellen Moore seeks to streamline workflow and tweak schematics; lineman David Edwards links the move to recent offensive line struggles. Moore also welcomes RB Audric Estime back after his brief stint with the Browns.
Falcons’ Bijan Robinson shoots down notion that he is NFL’s best RB, for now
The Atlanta Falcons, sitting at 3-5 after dominant wins over Green Bay and San Francisco, are facing a tough stretch that includes the Bengals, Chiefs, Vikings and Lions. Running back Bijan Robinson, a two‑time Pro Bowler, rejects the label of the NFL’s best back for now, noting his recent output—139 rushing yards across two games and a 4.0‑yard average in a 16-0 loss to Tampa Bay—doesn’t merit the hype. Still, he nears 1,000 total scrimmage yards and boasts a 5.2‑yard per carry average, keeping him in the best‑RB conversation as the Falcons aim to stay competitive through Christmas.
Why is Tyler Huntley not playing tonight for Ravens vs Jaguars in Week 9 of 2026 NFL season?
Tyler Huntley is ruled out of the Ravens’ Week 9 Thursday night game against the Jacksonville Jaguars due to a turf toe injury, likely ending his season. The veteran backup had stepped in after Lamar Jackson’s thumb injury on Nov. 1, but now rookie Joe Fagnano makes his first NFL start. Fagnano, who saw action in the Week 8 loss to Buffalo, was cleared to practice despite an ankle tweak. Huntley has thrown for 727 yards, four TDs and one INT in five games this season, highlighted by a 30‑23 OT win over Atlanta in Week 5.
‘Terp Is Our Guy’: Dallas Cowboys Coach Makes KaVontae Turpin’s Return Role Clear Amid Tyler Goodson’s Emergence
Dallas Cowboys special teams coach Nick Sorensen confirms that return specialist KaVontae Turpin remains the primary option despite a rib injury that sidelined him after Week 6. Backup Tyler Goodson, signed from the Falcons' practice squad, and fellow returner Jonathan Mingo have stepped in, with Goodson also serving as Javonte Williams' backup running back. Sorensen praised coverage standouts Justin Barron, Hunter Luepke, Markquese Bell and Alijah Clark, noting their playmaking and penalties that can swing field position. The Cowboys, now 3‑5, head to Indianapolis for their Sunday matchup against the Colts.
Bengals vs. Falcons bold predictions for NFL Madrid Game in Week 9
The Bengals and Falcons clash in Week 9’s NFL Madrid game, and the preview predicts a high‑scoring showdown. After a 462‑yard, five‑TD performance, quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to exceed 400 passing yards again and throw at least three touchdowns, with receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins each topping 100 yards and finding the end zone. Meanwhile, Falcons’ star running back Bijan Robinson is projected to double the Bengals’ rushing output, potentially eclipsing Cincinnati’s modest 80.3 yards per game. The article forecasts a combined 80‑point shootout as both offenses ignite on the international stage.
NFL Week 9 Staff Predictions: Can the Vikings Bounce Back Against the Bills?
The EssentiallySports staff lay out their Week 9 NFL picks as the league hits the midway point. Senior writers Luke Hubbard (12‑2), Reubyn Coutinho (9‑5) and Daniel Rios (11‑3) each project dominant wins for the Jacksonville Jaguars over the Baltimore Ravens after Lamar Jackson lands on IR, a close Bengals‑Falcons contest favoring Cincinnati, a Cowboys‑Colts blowout in Indianapolis, and a Chiefs‑Jets matchup tilted toward Kansas City. The article highlights key injuries, trade delays and recent performances to justify each forecast, noting that the Vikings‑Bills clash remains a pivotal test for Minnesota’s bounce‑back hopes.
Why Travis Kelce is so ‘excited’ for first holiday season married to Taylor Swift
Travis Kelby, now a newlywed to Taylor Swift, says he’s "excited" for his first Christmas as a husband, sharing his enthusiasm in a Tommy Hilfiger ad. The couple tied the knot on July 3, 2026 at Madison Square Garden, with a star‑studded ceremony featuring Adam Sandler officiating and performances by Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks and Avril Lavigne. Kelce, entering his 14th NFL season, recently signed a three‑year deal after weighing retirement. He’s on pace for a career‑best season with 29 catches, 410 yards and two TDs, while the Chiefs rebound from back‑to‑back losses as they prepare for upcoming games against the Jets, Falcons and Cardinals.
A 49ers trade deadline wishlist: 7 players who could help win a Super Bowl
The 49ers sit 6‑1 entering Week 9 and, despite a strong start, still need a pass rusher, secondary help, and receiver depth. Niners Nation’s trade‑deadline wishlist lists seven targets, from high‑priced wideout Garrett Wilson (Jets) to more affordable options like Indianapolis WR Josh Downs. Safety Jessie Bates III (Falcons) resurfaces as a potential long‑term fix, while edge rusher Josh Sweat (Cardinals) offers a healthy, high‑upside pass‑rush boost. The author ranks Downs as the most realistic acquisition, with Wilson as a dream‑catcher and multiple others as bold, “swing‑for‑the‑fences” moves to solidify a Super Bowl run.
Detroit Lions Urged to Trade for Former First-Round Cornerback
The Detroit Lions sit 5-3 but rank last in NFL passing defense, prompting calls for a secondary upgrade. ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell suggests a low‑cost trade for former first‑round pick Mike Hughes, now with the Atlanta Falcons, who could bolster Detroit’s cornerback group without sacrificing draft assets. With safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph still injured, Hughes offers a modest improvement as the Lions chase a playoff berth and try to overtake division rivals the Bears, Packers and Vikings.
NFL Week 9 predictions according to Madden 27
Madden 27’s Week 9 simulation predicts a solid 11‑3 record after an 67‑38 run since Week 2, and the tool’s forecasts line up with the actual results. The Jaguars dominate the Ravens 34‑6 behind Derrick Henry, while the Bengals beat the Falcons 31‑24 as Joe Burrow throws for over 340 yards and three TDs. Dallas edges Indianapolis 36‑28 thanks to Dak Prescott’s 70% completion rate and a 255‑yard passing duo of Lamb and Pickens. Kansas City snaps its losing streak with a 24‑13 win over the Jets, and Miami overpowers Detroit 27‑17. The article breaks down each game’s key plays and player performances, showing how Madden 27’s predictions hold up this week.
Hawks in the NFL: Week 8
Week 8 in the NFL delivers drama and highlights. Detroit Lions All‑Pro Jack Campbell suffers a serious fourth‑quarter injury while tackling tight end TJ Hockenson, but later confirms he’s recovering and grateful for support. Tennessee safety Amani Hooker shines for the 1‑7 Titans, intercepting Joe Burrow three times in a 43‑36 overtime loss to Cincinnati and reaching five career picks, aiming for a $500,000 bonus. Rookie kicker Drew Stevens nails four of five field goals, including a 56‑yard effort, as Washington beats Philadelphia. Packers DE Lukas Van Ness posts a career‑high 4.5 sacks in a 27‑19 win over Carolina, and Tampa Bay’s Tristan Wirfs helps the Bucs rush for 324 yards in a 16‑0 shutout of Atlanta—the first NFL win without a completed pass since 1974.
Emergence Of Kenny Gainwell Mirrors Bucs’ Run Game Resurgence
Bucs coach Todd Bowles hints at a new strategy behind Tampa Bay’s revitalized rushing attack, which dazzled against Atlanta with a vintage Red Grange‑style performance. The piece highlights rookie running back Kenny Gainwell’s breakout emergence as the focal point of the surge, detailing his key carries, explosive runs, and the impact on the Bucs’ offensive balance. Bowles’ comments and game statistics suggest a lasting shift in the team’s run game philosophy.
Buccaneers’ Emeka Egbuka injury update will catch fantasy football managers’ attention
Emeka Egbuka returns to Buccaneers practice after missing two games with a foot injury, testing full speed on the sideline, according to Fox Sports. His comeback gives quarterback Baker Mayfield another weapon ahead of Thursday’s matchup with the Chicago Bears. Tampa Bay, now 3-5, sits in a tight NFC South race with the Falcons (3-5) and Panthers (3-4). With other WRs like Elijah Roberts also back, the Bucs hope health will spark a late‑season surge.
Jay Feely’s Congressional Dreams Have Doinked Off The Uprights
Former NFL kicker Jay Feely’s bid for Arizona’s 1st Congressional District collapses as voters reject the “MAGA jackass” candidate. The article highlights the broader Tuesday election wave that ousted incumbents like Susan Collins and Greg Abbott, and notes victories such as Virginia’s voting‑rights overhaul. Feely, a 14‑year NFL veteran with stints in Atlanta, Arizona, and the Giants/Jets, leveraged his right‑wing media ties—including a 2009 Sean Hannity appearance—to launch his campaign, but his polarizing rhetoric failed to resonate. The piece underscores the district’s decisive rejection of his conservative platform.
Falcons’ Brian Robinson Jr. gets injury update ahead of Bengals game
The Atlanta Falcons receive a boost ahead of their Monday Night Football showdown in Madrid against the Cincinnati Bengals as RB Brian Robinson Jr. returns to practice after a hamstring setback. While his session was limited, his presence could revive a struggling ground game that faltered against Tampa Bay, where quarterback Michael Penix Jr. threw four interceptions. Rookie Zachariah Branch remains out with a similar injury, but the defense gets a lift with James Pearce Jr. back from an eight‑game suspension and Billy Bowman Jr. fully practiced. The timing of these updates could be crucial for the Falcons' NFC South push.
Bijan Robinson pushes back on being called best running back in NF
Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson pushed back when asked if he’s the best at his position.
AFC North Preview, Week 9: Steelers on bye, Ravens in desperation mode
The AFC North preview highlights the Ravens’ crisis after losing both starters Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley to season‑ending injuries, leaving third‑string QB Joe Fagnano to face a tough Jacksonville Jaguars matchup. Jacksonville, 5‑2 with the league’s best point differential (+85) and a stingy run defense, forces Baltimore to rely on quick outlet passes. Meanwhile, the Steelers enjoy a bye, the Bengals travel to Spain to play the Falcons after a dramatic OT win over the Titans, and the Browns head to New Orleans seeking a bounce‑back without Deshaun Watson. Key storylines include quarterback depth, run‑game challenges, and defensive matchups across the division.
What to know about Falcons – Bengals in Week 9
The Falcons head to Madrid for Week 9 against a 5-2 Bengals squad that dominates in passing, turnover creation and defensive pressure. Atlanta (3-5) must lean on its stronger run game while generating a relentless pass rush to disrupt Joe Burrow, who boasts 13 TDs and near‑1,000 yards over his last three starts. The Bengals, bolstered by Lawrence’s rookie impact, new linemen Orlando Brown Jr. and Dalton Risner, and a talented receiver duo in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, struggle to run the ball and lack a deep rushing attack. If the Falcons can force turnovers and pressure Burrow, they could offset their statistical deficiencies and pull off an upset. The matchup pits Atlanta’s rushing edge against Cincinnati’s elite aerial offense in a rare European night.
Bad weather can’t be the main cause of Falcons’ ugly defeat
The Falcons’ loss in Tampa isn’t blamed on rain but on self‑inflicted mistakes. Michael Penix Jr. threw four interceptions—three directly his fault—while the offensive line failed to establish the run and the defense couldn’t stop Tampa Bay’s ground attack. The Buccaneers, led by Bijan Robinson’s 2.6 yards per carry (excluding a 30‑yard run), dominated the trenches, exploiting the Falcons’ undersized front and lack of support. Coach Todd Bowles adjusted to the conditions; Kevin Stefanski’s squad did not, leading to a one‑sided, ugly defeat for Atlanta.
Denver Broncos not overlooking Carolina Panthers before bye
The Denver Broncos, sitting 7-2 after a dominant AFC West win over the Chiefs, gear up for Sunday’s clash with the Carolina Panthers before their upcoming bye. Despite the Panthers’ two‑game skid and the recent firing of defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, Broncos players stress they won’t underestimate the ‘playoff‑caliber’ Panthers, who have already defeated the Lions and Falcons. Denver’s injury report shows WR Pat Bryant cleared to play, while safety Talanoa Hufanga and others sit out with ankle and hamstring issues. The game could determine whether the Broncos stay on track for the postseason.
4 key matchups to watch in Bengals vs. Falcons
The Bengals travel to Madrid to face the Falcons on Nov. 5, 2026, after a 43‑36 win over the Titans while Atlanta rebounds from a 16‑0 loss to the Buccaneers. Four key matchups could decide the game: Orlando Brown Jr. versus returning pass‑rusher James Pearce Jr., Bengals linebackers Barrett Carter, Demetrius Knight Jr. and Jordan Battle trying to contain Bijan Robinson’s 780 rushing yards and 203 receiving yards, tight end Kyle Pitts testing a Bengals secondary that has struggled against the position, and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence attempting to dominate the Falcons’ interior line after a sack‑filled week. The article breaks down each duel and highlights the Falcons’ surprising wins over the Packers, Saints and 49ers despite a 3‑5 record.
Tennessee Titans Reveal Trade Price For Calvin Ridley
The Tennessee Titans are reportedly willing to trade wide receiver Calvin Ridley for a fifth‑round draft pick, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports. Ridley, who signed a four‑year, $92 million deal in March 2024 and took an $11 million pay cut in a later restructure, saw his role shrink after a broken fibula limited him to seven games last season and the Titans drafted Ohio State standout Carnell Tate with the No. 4 overall pick. He has 1,374 receiving yards from his 2020 season with Atlanta and 1,016 yards in 2023 with Jacksonville, but this year he’s logged just six catches for 91 yards. A fifth‑round price reflects his status as a depth option rather than a marquee asset.
NFL ranking of top 50 trade prospects is full of potential Bengals targets
The Bengals sit 5-2 heading into a Week 9 showdown in Madrid against the 3‑5 Falcons and, despite a two‑game win streak, injuries have sparked talk of a mid‑season trade. After swapping the No. 10 pick for Dexter Lawrence, analysts flag several potential targets: RB Jonathan Taylor (Colts), slot WR Josh Downs (Colts), versatile safety Amani Hooker (Titans), CB Amik Robertson (Commanders) and CB Riq Woolen (Eagles). Each player is on an expiring or cheap deal, and a move could shore up Cincinnati’s run game, receiving corps, secondary or cornerback depth as they chase the AFC North crown and a home playoff game.
Fantasy Football Week 9 Quarterback Rankings and Updates
As the 2026 NFL season reaches its midpoint, The Game Haus breaks down Week 9 fantasy quarterback rankings. Must‑Start QB1s include Joe Burrow (vs. Falcons) and Brock Purdy (vs. Raiders), while Josh Allen, Trevor Lawrence and Jared Goff round out the top five. Mid‑tier starters such as Dak Prescott, Drake Maye and Jordan Love earn QB2‑QB8 spots, and several low‑end and deep‑league options are listed through QB31. Notable updates: Aaron Rodgers and Cam Ward sit on bye, Lamar Jackson’s thumb injury could end his season, and Joe Milton replaces Tanner McKee as Philadelphia’s starter. Use the guide to fine‑tune your lineup before Thursday Night Football.
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