The New York Jets travel to face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 5, and it appears unlikely that quarterback Sam Darnold will be ready. Jets head coach Adam Gase told local media on Monday that Darnold has been cleared for non-contact practice work, according to J.P. Pelzman, but Gase also said “it’s not ideal” in terms of getting practice reps split between Darnold and Luke Falk.
Darnold will be a daily evaluation, with Connor Hughes reporting he is able to throw the ball but not yet able to lift. Considering the weight he reportedly lost due to mono, that could be an impediment to a quick return.
Fantasy analysis: Darnold looked like a sleeper fantasy prospect coming into the season, but the unexpected mono diagnosis slowed that down. The Jets are struggling on offense, and that has extended to virtually every potentially fantasy option. This could be a time to start buying low on Jets offensive weapons. Le’Veon Bell probably still has too much name-recognition to be had for a bargain, but Robby Anderson in particular could be worth grabbing if you have a chance.