Sam Darnold Delivers vs. 49ers Despite Justin Jefferson Injury

What They're Saying

HC Kevin O'Connell: The amount of work that goes into that position, on your quarterback journey, when everybody decides that you cannot play ... we always believed in him. Felt awesome to watch him go do that thing."

2024 Fantasy Football Impact

Sluggish passing numbers league wide have helped Darnold's fantasy standing. But he's also playing well through two weeks.

Sunday's effort included piloting a 14-play, 62-yard FG drive in the fourth quarter that put Minnesota up by 9. That possession came with no Jefferson (after he left with a quad contusion) in an offense already missing WR Jordan Addison -- and, of course, TE T.J. Hockenson.

Jefferson's injury doesn't sound serious, which is good. No matter how well Darnold's playing, it would be tough to consider him for fantasy usage without Jefferson in the lineup.

If Jefferson's back, Darnold looks like a top-16 candidate for a Week 3 home date with Houston. A road trip to Green Bay and home matchup with the Jets appear less attractive over the following two weeks.

Dynasty Impact

Darnold probably doesn't have a long-term future in Minnesota, with first-round pick J.J. McCarthy due back from his knee injury in 2025. But Darnold's still just 27.

If he continues on the path he's started this season, then there's a chance Darnold gets picked up to start elsewhere next season.

At the very least, he has become much more interesting in dynasty superflex leagues over the past two weeks.

Other Winners & Losers

Darnold's positive play through two games can also only help the fantasy outlooks of Minnesota's pass-catchers -- at least once they're back healthy.