Indicates a serious medical issue that should cause a fantasy team owner to stop and reassess. These players aren’t all undraftable, but their draft position will likely be affected by their medical status. When a player is red flagged, it doesn’t mean he won’t play football this season. It just means there is an issue to cause you to stop and pause. You may want to take a red light player off of your draft board or try to obtain a bargain in later rounds. Often the player is not available for early season play, but easily could become available later in the season. Remember, this is only a medical grade, I am not taking into account fantasy strategy or coaching decisions that will affect performance. Stop and reconsider these players before drafting; however, in lower rounds there may be value, especially for later in the season.
Indicates a significant medical issue that needs to be taken into account. As the color indicates, a fantasy owner needs to slow down and factor in the player’s medical assessment before selection. These players will be productive but their medical situation may affect fantasy production. Proceed with caution before drafting.
st
Indicates a reported medical issue, but one that has healed or should have minimal effect on the season. Despite public reports, these player are deemed healthy with only minimal if any effect on their potential fantasy performance. Don’t be afraid of the public reports of injury in selecting these players.
rd
th
nd
Dr. David Chao is a former NFL head team physician with 17 years of sideline, locker and training room experience. He currently has a successful orthopedic/sports medicine practice in San Diego.