The Playbook: Shadow Reports, lineup locks and projected scores for Week 7

ESPN released its fantasy football playbook for NFL Week 7, outlining matchup breakdowns, projected scores, and lineup locks across upcoming matchups. Key lineup recommendations highlight starting options such as Drake Maye, Christian McCaffrey, Bijan Robinson, and Joe Burrow. The report also assesses emerging players, noting Colston Loveland's return to the tight end mix following Caleb Williams' return for the Chicago Bears, alongside Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Germie Bernard's elevation to lock status.

Additional player analysis details Rams wide receiver Davante Adams' expected absence of six to ten weeks due to a hamstring injury, increasing reliance on Puka Nacua. Potential defensive shadow coverage is highlighted for several key matchups, including New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez facing Rome Odunze and Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner likely tracking Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers on perimeter routes.