Mark Andrews Returns to Ravens Practice After Missing Monday Session

Mark Andrews returned to Baltimore Ravens practice on Tuesday after missing Monday's session with an undisclosed issue, providing immediate relief for fantasy managers banking on the veteran tight end as their primary option. The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec reported the absence was very minor, evidenced by Andrews' quick return to full participation.

This development removes any lingering concerns about Andrews' availability for Week 1 against Buffalo, but the brief scare highlights the precarious nature of tight end depth in fantasy football. Andrews currently sits as the TE1 on most draft boards, carrying significant expectations after his career-high 11 touchdown performance in 2024.

Fantasy Impact

Andrews' stock receives a massive boost with backup Isaiah Likely sidelined by injury. Likely posted 42 receptions for 477 yards and 6 touchdowns last season, representing substantial target competition that's now temporarily removed. Ravens GM Eric DeCosta expects Likely back early in the season, but this creates a window for Andrews to dominate targets in Baltimore's passing attack.

The 29-year-old tight end delivered 55 catches for 673 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2024, averaging 11.1 PPR points per game. His 79.7 percent catch rate demonstrated improved reliability after previous drops concerns. With Likely unavailable, Andrews could see his 69 targets from last season increase significantly in the early weeks.

Based on current PPR rankings, Andrews is being selected around pick 79 overall as the TE5 behind Travis Kelce, Sam LaPorta, Trey McBride, and George Kittle. However, the Likely injury situation makes him a compelling value pick at that position.

Format Considerations

In redraft leagues, Andrews represents a safe floor with massive ceiling potential while Likely remains out. His career consistency shows at least six touchdowns in six of seven seasons, providing reliable weekly production. Dynasty managers should view this as a short-term boost, as Andrews turns 30 in September and faces long-term competition from the younger Likely.

Next Steps

Monitor Likely's recovery timeline closely, as his return will impact Andrews' target share significantly. Track Baltimore's offensive snap counts in preseason games to gauge how the team plans to utilize Andrews without his primary backup available. Fantasy managers should also watch for any reports of workload management as Andrews enters his eighth NFL season.

Consider handcuffing Andrews with Ravens' third-string tight end Charlie Kolar in deeper leagues. Test different strategies with our fantasy football mock drafts to determine optimal draft positioning while this situation develops. Andrews' current ADP presents excellent value given the temporary removal of his primary competition.

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