The Tennessee Titans are gearing up for training camp, with veterans facing tough competition to secure their spots on the final 53-man roster. Among those at risk are QB Will Levis, who may lose his starting role to rookie Cam Ward, who has shown promising signs of becoming the franchise QB. WR Van Jefferson's position is precarious with the addition of Tyler Lockett and Elic Ayomanor, while Mason Kinsey's role as a punt returner could be challenged by standout Chimere Dike. Other veterans like Dre'Mont Jones and Xavier Woods are also facing internal competition that could see them replaced by younger players, altering the team dynamics significantly.

The Tennessee Titans have secured running back Julius Chestnut with a one-year contract extension, as reported by Tom Pelissero. Chestnut, who initially joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2022, has demonstrated versatility and reliability despite facing injuries. In his brief appearances, he has shown potential with 102 rushing yards and 337 kickoff return yards last season. With a clean fumble record over his career, Chestnut is expected to provide solid ball security on special teams while contributing as the third running back behind Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. The Titans are still seeking improvements as they look to bolster their roster moving forward.

As the fantasy football season nears its conclusion, players face critical decisions for Week 18, especially with several star athletes sidelined. Among those still in action are Rico Dowdle, Zach Charbonnet, and Julius Chestnut, all of whom have unique outlooks for fantasy managers.

Rico Dowdle stands out as a strong RB2 option this week. He has been impressive lately, averaging over 103 rushing yards per game in the last five weeks, along with three receiving touchdowns. Facing a Washington Commanders defense that has struggled against the run, Dowdle is expected to capitalize on this matchup.

Zach Charbonnet, while productive with eight rushing touchdowns this season, faces a tough Los Angeles Rams defense that has effectively limited running backs. This makes him a low-end RB2 with limited upside. In contrast, Julius Chestnut is a risky option for fantasy players. Despite being the likely starter for the Tennessee Titans due to injuries in the backfield, he faces a Houston Texans team that has been tough against running backs, making him a player to avoid this week.

As Week 18 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are on the hunt for value plays to enhance their lineups. This week’s analysis focuses on key players across various positions who offer under-the-radar potential for DFS competitions. Selecting these players can provide the flexibility needed to incorporate high-end talent elsewhere in your roster.

Quarterback Bryce Young from the Carolina Panthers is highlighted as a solid value option against the Atlanta Falcons, despite a recent disappointing performance. Young has averaged 22.6 PPR points since Week 13, and his matchup against a Falcons defense that struggles against quarterbacks adds to his appeal. On the other side, rookie Michael Penix Jr. also presents value as he looks to capitalize on a favorable matchup against a vulnerable Carolina secondary.

In the running back category, Kenneth Gainwell of the Philadelphia Eagles is positioned for a significant role with the team likely resting starters. Ameer Abdullah from the Los Angeles Chargers and Julius Chestnut from the Houston Texans are also recommended due to their potential workload and favorable matchups, especially with injuries impacting their respective teams.

Wide receivers Jalen McMillan and Olamide Zaccheaus are noted for their recent performances and the importance of their upcoming games. McMillan has become a reliable target for his team, while Zaccheaus has been instrumental in the Commanders' offense. Lastly, tight ends Tucker Kraft and Zach Ertz are suggested for their ability to exploit defensive weaknesses, with Ertz coming off a strong performance in Week 17.

As the fantasy football season approaches its conclusion, savvy players are looking towards the waiver wire to bolster their rosters for Week 18. Key targets include Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth, who has emerged as a reliable option despite his team's inconsistent passing game. Currently ranked as TE10 for the year, Freiermuth has found the end zone five times this season, with three touchdowns in his last five games. His recent performance includes an average of 4.4 receptions and 42.8 receiving yards per game, making him a prime candidate for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on favorable matchups.

Freiermuth's upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals, who have allowed the most fantasy points to tight ends this season, presents a compelling reason for his addition in all league formats. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan is also making waves, ranking as WR10 over the past month. With an average of 4.8 receptions and 60.5 receiving yards per game, he is another valuable asset to consider.

Other noteworthy pickups include Clyde Edwards-Helaire of the New Orleans Saints, who recently debuted after joining the team from the Kansas City Chiefs, and Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut, who has seen limited action this season. Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is also on the radar as he looks to return from injury, while Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is aiming to finish strong after a tumultuous season. With the fantasy playoffs in full swing, these players could provide the necessary boost for teams looking to secure a championship.