Joe Burrow Confirmed to Start; Collins and Flowers Ruled Out for Week 2

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will start against the Texans despite back soreness, while Nico Collins and Zay Flowers have been ruled out for Week 2.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will start in Week 2 against the Houston Texans despite dealing with back soreness that left him questionable. Burrow, who described the prospect of missing the game as "ridiculous," remains a fantasy QB1 option. In contrast, Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, which is expected to increase volume for tight end Dalton Schultz and receiver Kayshon Boutte.

Baltimore Ravens receiver Zay Flowers is also sidelined for Week 2 after suffering a hamstring injury in the season opener. With Flowers and rookie Ja'Kobi Lane—who is on IR with a fractured wrist—both unavailable, Rashod Bateman is positioned as the primary wideout for Lamar Jackson. Additionally, Steelers receiver Michael Pittman Jr. will miss the week with a foot injury, potentially leaving DK Metcalf to face shadow coverage from Christian Gonzalez.

Several other starters have been ruled out, including Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray (concussion), Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (glute), and Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee). Carson Wentz is expected to start for Minnesota in Murray's absence. In the backfield, Vikings runner Jordan Mason is on IR with a fractured thumb, elevating Aaron Jones Sr. to the lead role for at least four games. Broncos running back RJ Harvey is unlikely to play due to a hamstring injury, leaving J.K. Dobbins to lead Denver's rushing attack.

For late-window and Monday games, Rams receiver Puka Nacua is a game-time decision with a hip injury, while Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is doubtful following meniscus surgery. 49ers tight end George Kittle and running back Kaelon Black are both expected to play despite Achilles and groin issues, respectively. Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson is also set to return from an ankle injury to share touches with Rhamondre Stevenson.