Fantasy Football Injury Update: Michael Vick and 6 Biggest Injuries Sunday

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Fantasy owners across the country collectively held their breath on Sunday as countless fantasy stars went down with significant injuries.

Fantasy football success not only hinges on the success of an owner’s players, but also on the way they manage their roster when faced with brutal injuries. These six guys are all fantasy studs that are going to have their owners sprinting to the waiver wire for Week 4.

6. Felix Jones, Dallas Cowboys

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Poised for a breakout year following an impressive preseason, Felix Jones’ 2011 struggles continued in Week 2 when he was diagnosed with a separated shoulder. He managed to play through it, though his touches were limited.

There is a significant possibility of Jones missing Week 3 against Washington. If this were the case, Dallas would likely turn to backups Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray. The two backs would split carries and would serve as viable flex plays in deeper leagues.

5. Miles Austin, Dallas Cowboys

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Miles Austin has a pulled hamstring and will need to be monitored throughout the week. The Cowboys were already without Dez Bryant in Week 2 and the loss of Miles Austin would be devastating to the Dallas passing attack.

Even if Austin is active in Week 3, his hamstring will need to continue to be monitored. These injuries tend to linger and can damper productivity. Kevin Ogletree will be a solid add if Austin misses significant time.

4. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

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Romo returned to lead the Cowboys over the 49ers in spite of a fractured rib. The injury is considered serious but it is something that he might be able to counter with a flak jacket and a slightly more conservative offense. Romo will need to be monitored carefully throughout the week, but should be good to go in Week 3.

If not, Jon Kitna becomes an interesting plug-and-play option at QB when the Cowboys face the Redskins in Week 3.

3. Michael Vick, Philadelphia Eagles

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Michael Vick left during the third quarter of Sunday night’s game with an apparent neck injury. He was spitting blood when he left as he bit his tongue and looked lost on the sidelines before he walked to the locker room with the Eagles trainers. The injury occurred awkwardly as Vick was wrapped up and smashed his helmet against one of his own linemen.

It was just reported that he suffered a concussion. In order for him to return he’ll need to pass a series of tests.

2. Arian Foster, Houston Texans

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Foster re-injured his hamstring in the first half of yesterday's game. Hamstring injuries are very touchy for running backs, and this could plague Foster owners throughout 2011.

If the Texans choose to be cautious, expect a heavy dose of Ben Tate in Week 3. Backup Derrick Ward, who missed Week 2 with ankle and shoulder injuries of his own, could also make an impact if he can get healthy. Foster should be back but will be used sparingly.

1. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs

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Jamaal Charles, perhaps the only bright spot on the Chiefs roster heading into Week 2, is likely out for the season with a torn ACL.

If Charles is indeed out for the season, Dexter McCluster becomes the most attractive replacement for fantasy rosters. Thomas Jones will get the bulk of the carries but his upside is extremely low, especially considering the way the Chiefs have been playing lately. Your best bet might actually be to explore other options from other teams. Guys like Roy Helu, Delone Carter and Ben Tate come to mind.