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Fantasy Football Week 5 Rankings, Grades & Start/Sit Advice (2024)

Fantasy Football Week 5 Rankings, Grades & Start/Sit Advice (2024)

Welcome to Week 5, friends. As always, we’re here to provide you with some fantasy football Quick Grades (or Start/Sit Grades, if you prefer) for the week.

We tapped into our consensus projections and rankings and Derek Brown’s weekly Primer to generate this week’s Quick Grades. See below for the results and accompanying notes.

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Week 5 Quarterback Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A+ Lamar Jackson BAL CIN
2 A Josh Allen BUF HOU
3 A Jordan Love GB LAR
4 A- Jayden Daniels WAS CLE
5 A- Brock Purdy SF ARI
6 B+ C.J. Stroud HOU BUF
7 B+ Justin Fields PIT DAL
8 B Kyler Murray ARI SF
9 B Joe Burrow CIN BAL
10 B Geno Smith SEA NYG
11 B- Patrick Mahomes II KC NO
12 B- Dak Prescott DAL PIT
13 B- Baker Mayfield TB ATL
14 C+ Deshaun Watson CLE WAS
15 C Anthony Richardson IND JAC
16 C Trevor Lawrence JAC IND
17 C- Kirk Cousins ATL TB
18 D+ Sam Darnold MIN NYJ
19 D+ Caleb Williams CHI CAR
20 D+ Aaron Rodgers NYJ MIN
21 D Andy Dalton CAR CHI
22 D- Matthew Stafford LAR GB
23 D- Derek Carr NO KC
24 D- Daniel Jones NYG SEA
25 F Bo Nix DEN LV
26 F Tyler Huntley MIA NE
27 F Gardner Minshew II LV DEN
28 F Jacoby Brissett NE MIA
29 F Joe Flacco IND JAC
30 F Aidan O’Connell LV DEN
31 F Drake Maye NE MIA
32 F Malik Willis GB LAR
33 F Jameis Winston CLE WAS
34 F Tim Boyle MIA NE

Sam Darnold (QB)

Darnold has been playing absolutely amazing football as the QB5 in fantasy points per game. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, he ranks third in yards per attempt, second in passer rating, tenth in CPOE, and ninth in highly accurate throw rate. This will be a huge test to see how much of his growth this season is real. We’ll see if he can keep the ghosts at bay against his former team. The Jets pass defense remains among the best in the league. They have allowed the second-lowest yards per attempt, the sixth-lowest passer rating, the lowest CPOE, and the second-lowest success rate per dropback.

Aaron Rodgers (QB)

Rodgers has had moments where he looks like prime Aaron Rodgers this season. The problem is that they haven’t been frequent enough. This isn’t a week to consider starting him and hoping for the old magic to resurface. Rodgers is the QB20 in fantasy points per game. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, he ranks 25th in yards per attempt, 18th in passer rating, 33rd in CPOE, and 25th in fantasy points per dropback. Minnesota has been one of the best pass defenses in the NFL. Quarterbacks facing them have had the 12th-lowest yards per attempt, the third-lowest passer rating, the sixth-lowest success rate per dropback, and the second-lowest EPA per dropback.

Joe Burrow (QB)

Burrow should have another strong week as a QB1. Burrow is the QB11 in fantasy points per game, ranking sixth in passer rating, fifth in CPOE, and 14th in highly accurate throw rate. He faces a Baltimore pass defense that handled its business against the Bills, but overall, this season, it has been lacking. They have allowed the ninth-highest yards per attempt, the third-most passing yards per game, and the tenth-most fantasy points to passing. Burrow should have time in the pocket as Baltimore has the 14th-lowest time to pressure and the 13th-lowest pressure rate.

Caleb Williams (QB)

Williams has had a rough transition to the NFL, no matter how you slice it, as the QB28 in fantasy points per game. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, he ranks 32nd in yards per attempt, 34th in passer rating, 30th in CPOE, and he has the sixth-highest off-target rate. Among 35 qualifying quarterbacks from a clean pocket, Williams ranks 30th in yards per attempt, 26th in passer rating, 24th in CPOE, and he has logged the seventh-highest off-target rate. Williams has another juicy pass defense to face this week, but it’s worth seriously considering if he can take advantage of it at this point. Carolina has allowed the 14th-highest CPOE, the 11th-highest yards per attempt, the second-most passing touchdowns, and the third-most fantasy points to passing.

Andy Dalton (QB)

Dalton is the QB5 in fantasy points per game. Among 35 qualifying quarterbacks, he is 12th in passer rating, 21st in CPOE, third in highly accurate throw rate, and 15th in fantasy points per dropback. Despite this glittering production, Dalton remains a QB2 this week. Chicago has been really tough against quarterbacks this season. They have held passers in check, allowing the 11th-lowest yards per attempt, the second-lowest passer rating, the 13th-lowest CPOE, and the second-fewest fantasy points via passing.

Deshaun Watson (QB)

Watson is a struggling NFL quarterback who has been helped greatly by his rushing for fantasy purposes. Watson ranks top-ten among quarterbacks in carries per game (eight) and rushing yards per game (ninth). That has helped him to QB19 status in fantasy points per game because his work as a passer has been bottom of the barrel. Among 37 qualifying quarterbacks, he ranks 34th in yards per attempt, 31st in passer rating, 20th in CPOE, and 31st in fantasy points per dropback. He has a smash matchup against Washington, but that has been the case numerous times this season only for Watson to underwhelm. Washington has allowed the fourth-highest yards per attempt, the most passing touchdowns and fantasy points via passing, and the highest passer rating to quarterbacks. Watson will likely return decent but not amazing QB2 numbers in Week 5.

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Week 5 Wide Receiver Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A+ CeeDee Lamb DAL PIT
2 A+ Justin Jefferson MIN NYJ
3 A+ Nico Collins HOU BUF
4 A+ Ja’Marr Chase CIN BAL
5 A+ DK Metcalf SEA NYG
6 A+ Marvin Harrison Jr. ARI SF
7 A Jayden Reed GB LAR
8 A Amari Cooper CLE WAS
9 A Garrett Wilson NYJ MIN
10 A Chris Godwin TB ATL
11 A Mike Evans TB ATL
12 A Drake London ATL TB
13 A Deebo Samuel Sr. SF ARI
14 A- Chris Olave NO KC
15 A- Tyreek Hill MIA NE
16 A- Brandon Aiyuk SF ARI
17 A- Stefon Diggs HOU BUF
18 A- Zay Flowers BAL CIN
19 A- Diontae Johnson CAR CHI
20 B+ George Pickens PIT DAL
21 B+ DJ Moore CHI CAR
22 B+ Terry McLaurin WAS CLE
23 B Brian Thomas Jr. JAC IND
24 B Michael Pittman Jr. IND JAC
25 B Xavier Worthy KC NO
26 B Jaxon Smith-Njigba SEA NYG
27 B Tee Higgins CIN BAL
28 B Rashid Shaheed NO KC
29 B Jerry Jeudy CLE WAS
30 B Christian Kirk JAC IND
31 B- Dontayvion Wicks GB LAR
32 B- Courtland Sutton DEN LV
33 C+ Jaylen Waddle MIA NE
34 C+ Darnell Mooney ATL TB
35 C+ Romeo Doubs GB LAR
36 C+ Jauan Jennings SF ARI
37 C Josh Downs IND JAC
38 C Wan’Dale Robinson NYG SEA
39 C Tyler Lockett SEA NYG
40 C Keenan Allen CHI CAR
41 C Rome Odunze CHI CAR
42 C Jakobi Meyers LV DEN
43 C Keon Coleman BUF HOU
44 C Jordan Addison MIN NYJ
45 C Demarcus Robinson LAR GB
46 C Xavier Legette CAR CHI
47 C Tank Dell HOU BUF
48 C Mike Williams NYJ MIN
49 C Jordan Whittington LAR GB
50 C Allen Lazard NYJ MIN
51 C- Michael Wilson ARI SF
52 C- Gabe Davis JAC IND
53 C- Tre Tucker LV DEN
54 C- Jalen Tolbert DAL PIT
55 C- Greg Dortch ARI SF
56 C- Andrei Iosivas CIN BAL
57 C- Alec Pierce IND JAC
58 D+ Rashod Bateman BAL CIN
59 D+ Curtis Samuel BUF HOU
60 D+ DeMario Douglas NE MIA
61 D+ Ray-Ray McCloud III ATL TB
62 D Ja’Lynn Polk NE MIA
63 D Tutu Atwell LAR GB
64 D Josh Reynolds DEN LV
65 D Elijah Moore CLE WAS
66 D- Luke McCaffrey WAS CLE
67 D- Jalen Nailor MIN NYJ
68 F Darius Slayton NYG SEA
69 F Justin Watson KC NO
70 F Adonai Mitchell IND JAC
71 F Tyler Johnson LAR GB
72 F JuJu Smith-Schuster KC NO
73 F Noah Brown WAS CLE
74 F Jonathan Mingo CAR CHI
75 F Calvin Austin III PIT DAL
76 F Olamide Zaccheaus WAS CLE
77 F Dyami Brown WAS CLE
78 F Sterling Shepard TB ATL
79 F Christian Watson GB LAR
80 F Bo Melton GB LAR
81 F K.J. Osborn NE MIA
82 F Marvin Mims Jr. DEN LV
83 F Lil’Jordan Humphrey DEN LV
84 F Van Jefferson PIT DAL
85 F Mack Hollins BUF HOU
86 F Nelson Agholor BAL CIN
87 F KaVontae Turpin DAL PIT
88 F DJ Turner LV DEN
89 F Mason Tipton NO KC
90 F Skyy Moore KC NO
91 F Brandon Powell MIN NYJ
92 F Troy Franklin DEN LV
93 F Jalen Brooks DAL PIT
94 F Robert Woods HOU BUF
95 F Xavier Gipson NYJ MIN
96 F Marquez Valdes-Scantling BUF HOU
97 F Mecole Hardman Jr. KC NO
98 F Davante Adams LV DEN
99 F Cedric Tillman CLE WAS
100 F Jalin Hyatt NYG SEA
101 F Parker Washington JAC IND
102 F Braxton Berrios MIA NE
103 F Jake Bobo SEA NYG
104 F Jermaine Burton CIN BAL
105 F Tyquan Thornton NE MIA
106 F David Moore CAR CHI
107 F DeAndre Carter CHI CAR
108 F Malik Heath GB LAR
109 F Kameron Johnson TB ATL
110 F Trenton Irwin CIN BAL
111 F Xavier Hutchinson HOU BUF
112 F Malik Washington MIA NE
113 F Laviska Shenault Jr. SEA NYG
114 F Kayshon Boutte NE MIA
115 F Scotty Miller PIT DAL
116 F Ashton Dulin IND JAC
117 F Bub Means NO KC
118 F Trent Sherfield Sr. MIN NYJ
119 F Jacob Cowing SF ARI
120 F Cedrick Wilson Jr. NO KC
121 F Devin Duvernay JAC IND
122 F Charlie Jones CIN BAL
123 F Malachi Corley NYJ MIN
124 F James Proche II CLE WAS
125 F Jalen Coker CAR CHI
126 F Chris Moore ARI SF
127 F Zach Pascal ARI SF
128 F Chris Conley SF ARI
129 F KhaDarel Hodge ATL TB
130 F Devontez Walker BAL CIN
131 F Devaughn Vele DEN LV
132 F Dee Eskridge MIA NE
133 F Erik Ezukanma MIA NE
134 F Tylan Wallace BAL CIN
135 F Roman Wilson PIT DAL
136 F Tyler Scott CHI CAR
137 F John Metchie III HOU BUF
138 F Deonte Harty BAL CIN
139 F Jamari Thrash CLE WAS
140 F Casey Washington ATL TB
141 F Tim Jones JAC IND
142 F Ronnie Bell SF ARI
143 F Ryan Flournoy DAL PIT
144 F Xavier Weaver ARI SF
145 F Steven Sims Jr. HOU BUF
146 F Ihmir Smith-Marsette NYG SEA
147 F Bryce Ford-Wheaton NYG SEA
148 F Velus Jones Jr. CHI CAR
149 F Trishton Jackson MIN NYJ

Terry McLaurin (WR)

McLaurin is the WR31 in fantasy points per game, demanding a 25.5% target share, a 54% air-yard share, and a 31.6% first-read share while producing 1.74 YPRR. Cleveland has the highest single-high rate in the NFL (74.3%). Among 78 qualifying receivers, McLaurin ranks 40th in TPRR and 39th in route win rate against single-high. Cleveland has allowed the 12th-lowest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers, but McLaurin could quietly be headed toward a solid Week 5. Kliff Kingsbury keeps McLaurin planted as the left wide receiver in formations, which will work in his favor this week. McLaurin will run about 77% of his routes against Martin Emerson Jr.(65% catch rate and 120.4 passer rating), who has been the weak link in Cleveland’s pass defense.

Jerry Jeudy (WR)

Jeudy has been a WR3 in weekly fantasy scoring in three of his four games this season (WR33, WR27, WR31). He has a 19.6% target share, a 33.2% air-yard share, 1.26 YPRR, and a 21.7% first-read share. Jeudy is tied for the team lead with three red zone targets. The Cleveland passing volume should lean towards Jeudy this week against Washington’s two high coverage scheme (fifth-highest rate, 60.6%). Against two high, Jeudy has seen his YPRR increase to 1.55 and his first-read share bump to 23.3%. Washington has allowed the sixth-highest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers. Jeudy could finally register his first WR2 fantasy scoring week in Week 5.

Amari Cooper (WR)

Cooper is the WR46 in fantasy points per game, and much of that was scored against the Giants in Week 3. Outside of his eruption game against New York, Cooper hasn’t surpassed eight PPR points in any week. Cooper continues to soak up the volume, though, with a 25% target share, a 46.8% air-yard share, and a 30.2% first-read share despite producing just 0.92 YPRR and 37 receiving yards per game. Cooper is tied for the team lead in red zone targets with three. The Commanders have the fifth-highest two high rate in the NFL (60.6%). Against two high, Cooper’s target share and first-read shares have dipped to 15.4% and 16.3%. Washington has allowed the sixth-highest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers, but it is questionable if Cooper will take advantage in Week 5.

Noah Brown (WR)

Brown and McLaurin were the only wide receivers for Washington that had more than a 60% route share in Week 4. Last week, Brown had a 61% route share, a 13.3% target share, a 16.3% air-yard share, 1.18 YPRR, and a 15% first-read share. Kliff Kingsbury has had Brown aligned as the right wide receiver on 66% of his plays, which means Brown will be sacrificed to Denzel Ward (44% catch rate and 62.4 passer rating) this week for most of his routes. Sit Brown in all formats.

Michael Pittman Jr. (WR)

Pittman has limped out the gate as the WR55 in fantasy points per game. Richardson has been a big part of the problem, but Pittman has still seen a 28.2% target share, a 27.8% air-yard share, and a 31.9% first-read share with 2.12 YPRR. Pittman leads the team with three red zone targets, and he’s gotten involved in the deep passing game (four targets, third on the team). Over the last two weeks, Jacksonville has flipped their defensive approach with the fifth-highest two-high rate (55.6%). Since Josh Downs‘ return, Pittman ranks first in target share (23.8%, tied with Downs), first in YPRR (2.47), and second in first-read share (26.7%) against two-high. Pittman will run about 78% of his routes against Ronald Darby (79.2% catch rate and 132.1 passer rating) and Montaric Brown (63% catch rate and 90.2 passer rating). Jacksonville has allowed the eighth-highest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers.

Josh Downs (WR)

Since his return to the lineup, Downs is tied with Pittman for the team lead in target share (28%) while posting 2.67 YPRR and a 37.8% first-read share (first on the team). Over the last two weeks, Jacksonville has flipped their defensive approach with the fifth-highest two-high rate (55.6%). Since Week 3, against two-high, Downs has tied Pittman in target share (23.8%), ranked second in YPRR (1.94), and led the team in first-read share (33.3%). Jacksonville has allowed the eighth-most receiving yards and the ninth-highest PPR points per target to slot receivers. Downs will run about 95% of his routes against Jarrian Jones (78.6% catch rate and 111.6 passer rating).

Christian Kirk (WR)

In Week 3, Dougie P woke up and realized that Kirk should be featured more in the game plan. Since that time, he has had a 27.8% target share, a 34.4% air-yard share, 2.06 YPRR, and a team-leading 36.4% first-read share. Kirk is tied for second on the team in red zone targets (two) and tied for the team lead with six deep targets. Indy has the 12th-highest single-high rate (56.2%). Over the last two weeks, Kirk is second on the team with a 28.6% target share, has 1.71 YPRR, and leads the team with a 33.3% first-read share against single-high. Indy has allowed the second-highest PPR points per target and the 13th-most receiving yards to slot receivers. Kirk will run about 84% of his routes against Chris Lammons (83.3% catch rate and 115.3 passer rating).

Brian Thomas Jr. (WR)

Thomas Jr. has hit the ground running in his rookie season as the WR20 in fantasy points per game. Over the last two weeks, after Kirk’s reintegration into this passing attack, Thomas Jr. has had a 22.8% target share, a 28% air-yard share, 2.06 YPRR, and a 27.2% first-read share. Indy has the 12th-highest single-high rate (56.2%). Over the last two weeks against single-high, Thomas Jr. has led the team with a 28.6% target share, a 32.8% air-yard share, 3.18 YPRR, and ranked second with a 30.3% first-read share. Thomas Jr. will run about 78% of his routes against Jaylon Jones (64% catch rate and 60.6 passer rating) and Samuel Womack lll (66.7% catch rate and 122.2 passer rating). Indy has allowed the tenth-highest PPR points per target and the sixth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.

Jaylen Waddle (WR)

If Hill is getting shadow treatment from Gonzalez this week, Waddle could lead the way through the air for Miami. Last week with Huntley, Waddle had a 27.3% target share, a 22.6% air-yard share, 2.00 YPRR, and a 33.3% first-read share. New England has the sixth-highest rate of two high (52.3%). Against two high, Waddle ranks third on the team in TPRR (20%), first in YPRR (2.40), and second in first-read share (18.6%). With Gonzalez stuck to Hill, Waddle will tangle with Jonathan Jones (66.7% catch rate and 106.6 passer rating) and Marco Wilson (career: 69.6% catch rate and 115.7 passer rating) for most of the day. New England has allowed the 11th-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.

Tyreek Hill (WR)

Last week, with Huntley under center, Hill had a 31.8% target share, a 76.2% air-yard share, 1.28 YPRR, and a 38.9% first-read share. Hill remained the number one option in this passing attack and the downfield option with an 18.3 aDOT. Hill likely sees shadow coverage this week from Christian Gonzalez (60% catch rate and 80.6 passer rating), who has followed Ja’Marr Chase, Garrett Wilson, D.K. Metcalf, and Brandon Aiyuk on 54-90% of their routes. Only Metcalf surpassed 33 receiving yards in his primary coverage. Hill is fourth on the team in red zone targets with two. New England has the sixth-highest rate of two high (52.3%). Against two high, Hill leads the team with a 26% TPRR and a 25.4% first-read share while ranking second in YPRR with 2.11.

Ja’Lynn Polk (WR)

Last week, New England finally decided to install Polk as a full-time receiver in the offense with an 82% route share, a 21.9% target share, a 62.2% air-yard share, and a 28% first-read share. This almost feels like a trap as New England has been rotating without any semblance of reasoning the focal point of the passing attack weekly. One week it is Hunter Henry, then DeMario Douglas, and now Polk. I’m sure there’s no way the rug gets pulled out from under us in Week 5 (it probably does…). At this point, there’s no way I have any confidence in starting anyone from the New England passing attack unless we possibly see them featured in multiple weeks. This offense is a mess. Polk is worth picking up where you can and stash him, though.

Courtland Sutton (WR)

Sutton was the only Denver receiving option to log at least an 80% route share in Week 4. Sutton is the WR47 in fantasy points per game, seeing a 25.4% target share, a 49% air-yard share, and a 32.6% first-read share with 1.57 YPRR. Sutton is tied with Diontae Johnson for the most red zone targets in the NFL. The Raiders have the ninth-highest two-high rate in the NFL (49.7%). Against two-high, Sutton has seen his numbers jump even higher with a 29.5% target share, a 67.3% air-yard share, 1.72 YPRR, and a 31.8% first-read share. Sutton will run about 81% of his routes against Jack Jones (66.7% catch rate and 118.8 passer rating) and Jakorian Bennett (40% catch rate and 55.1 passer rating).

Jakobi Meyers (WR)

Last week, without Adams in the lineup, Meyers had a 41.7% target share, a 53% air-yard share, 2.04 YPRR, and a 45% first-read share. How much does all of this volume matter in Week 5? Very little. Without Adams in the lineup again this week, Meyers will be shadowed by Patrick Surtain, who is a coffin nail for his fantasy value. Surtain has followed D.K. Metcalf, Mike Evans, George Pickens, and Garrett Wilson this season on 60-95% of their routes, and none of them eclipsed 30 receiving yards in his coverage. Sit Meyers this week.

Tre Tucker (WR)

Last week without Adams, Tucker had a 25% target share, an 18.4% air-yard share, 1.64 YPRR, and a 30% first-read share. He’s likely to see substantial volume again this week with Meyers locked up with Surtain. This means Tucker will match up with Riley Moss (64% catch rate and 92.9 passer rating) for most of the day. Denver is fifth in single-high rate (57.9%). Tucker’s numbers against single-high aren’t great, as he has logged a 13% TPRR and only 1.05 YPRR. Tucker does hold some deep PPR league flex appeal if you’re in a pinch.

Brandon Aiyuk (WR)

Aiyuk has disappointed so far this season as the WR67 in fantasy points per game. He has drawn a 19.7% target share, a 22.6% air-yard share, and a 21.8% first-read share while producing 1.34 YPRR. I’m not worried about Aiyuk at all, though. His per-route metrics are still amazing, and better days are ahead. Among 111 wide receivers, he ranks fifth in separation and first in route win rate. Arizona has utilized Cover 3 or Cover 4 on 60.5% of their defensive snaps. Against these coverages, Aiyuk has only a 17.4% target share, a 17.1% air-yard share, 1.24 YPRR, and a 21.2% first-read share. That first-read rate is second on the team, behind only Deebo Samuel. Working in Aiyuk’s favor is the fact that Arizona’s outside corners have allowed the fourth-highest PPR points per target this season. Last year, Aiyuk was the team’s go-to receiver against Cover 3 and Cover 4, with a team-leading 24.4% target share, 3.31 YPRR, and a 29.5% first-read share. Aiyuk will run about 84% of his routes against Sean Murphy-Bunting (90.9% catch rate and 104.2 passer rating) and Starling Thomas (61.5% catch rate and 120.2 passer rating). The big Aiyuk game could happen in Week 5.

Dontayvion Wicks (WR)

Last week Wicks blew up after Christian Watson was sidelined with an injury. He finished as the WR3 in fantasy, drawing a 24.1% target share, a 40.3% air-yard share, and a 30.6% first-read share with 1.86 YPRR. He led the team with four end-zone targets. He was fantastic. In Week 5, he should destroy the Rams secondary. The Rams utilize single-high at the seventh-highest rate (57.9%). Against single-high, Wicks leads the team with a 33% TPRR and ranks second to only Jayden Reed with 2.70 YPRR. Last year, he logged a 22% TPRR and 2.10 YPRR against single-high. Wicks will run about 66% of his routes against Tre’Davious White (69.2% catch rate and 147.8 passer rating) and Cobie Durant (56.3% catch rate and 70.3 passer rating). The Rams have allowed the highest PPR points per target and the second-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.

If you want to dive deeper into fantasy football, check out our award-winning slate of Fantasy Football Tools as you navigate your season. From our Start/Sit Assistant – which provides your optimal lineup based on accurate consensus projections – to our Waiver Wire Assistant, which allows you to quickly see which available players will improve your team and how much – we’ve got you covered this fantasy football season.

Week 5 Running Back Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A+ Jordan Mason SF ARI
2 A+ Derrick Henry BAL CIN
3 A+ Kyren Williams LAR GB
4 A Alvin Kamara NO KC
5 A Bijan Robinson ATL TB
6 A Kenneth Walker III SEA NYG
7 A Aaron Jones MIN NYJ
8 A Breece Hall NYJ MIN
9 A- James Cook BUF HOU
10 A- Josh Jacobs GB LAR
11 A- Brian Robinson Jr. WAS CLE
12 A- Chuba Hubbard CAR CHI
13 B+ De’Von Achane MIA NE
14 B+ James Conner ARI SF
15 B+ Travis Etienne Jr. JAC IND
16 B Najee Harris PIT DAL
17 B D’Andre Swift CHI CAR
18 B Rhamondre Stevenson NE MIA
19 B Joe Mixon HOU BUF
20 B Devin Singletary NYG SEA
21 B- Jerome Ford CLE WAS
22 B- Kareem Hunt KC NO
23 B- Zack Moss CIN BAL
24 C+ Trey Sermon IND JAC
25 C+ Javonte Williams DEN LV
26 C+ Rachaad White TB ATL
27 C+ Bucky Irving TB ATL
28 C+ Rico Dowdle DAL PIT
29 C Chase Brown CIN BAL
30 C Roschon Johnson CHI CAR
31 C Braelon Allen NYJ MIN
32 C Alexander Mattison LV DEN
33 C Tyler Allgeier ATL TB
34 C Justice Hill BAL CIN
35 C Zamir White LV DEN
36 C Austin Ekeler WAS CLE
37 C- Zach Charbonnet SEA NYG
38 C- Antonio Gibson NE MIA
39 C- Tank Bigsby JAC IND
40 C- Emanuel Wilson GB LAR
41 D+ Jaleel McLaughlin DEN LV
42 D+ Ty Chandler MIN NYJ
43 D Samaje Perine KC NO
44 D Raheem Mostert MIA NE
45 D- Miles Sanders CAR CHI
46 D- D’Onta Foreman CLE WAS
47 D- Tyrone Tracy Jr. NYG SEA
48 D- Ezekiel Elliott DAL PIT
49 F Ray Davis BUF HOU
50 F Carson Steele KC NO
51 F Cam Akers HOU BUF
52 F Jamaal Williams NO KC
53 F Trey Benson ARI SF
54 F Tyler Goodson IND JAC
55 F Ty Johnson BUF HOU
56 F Isaac Guerendo SF ARI
57 F Ronnie Rivers LAR GB
58 F Jaylen Wright MIA NE
59 F Clyde Edwards-Helaire KC NO
60 F Dare Ogunbowale HOU BUF
61 F Emari Demercado ARI SF
62 F Jeremy McNichols WAS CLE
63 F Kyle Juszczyk SF ARI
64 F D’Ernest Johnson JAC IND
65 F Cordarrelle Patterson PIT DAL
66 F JaMycal Hasty NE MIA
67 F Deuce Vaughn DAL PIT
68 F Khalil Herbert CHI CAR
69 F Eric Gray NYG SEA
70 F Pierre Strong Jr. CLE WAS
71 F Jaylen Warren PIT DAL
72 F Dameon Pierce HOU BUF
73 F Blake Corum LAR GB
74 F Jeff Wilson Jr. MIA NE
75 F Hunter Luepke DAL PIT
76 F Nick Chubb CLE WAS
77 F Jonathan Ward PIT DAL
78 F Ameer Abdullah LV DEN
79 F Blake Watson DEN LV
80 F Alec Ingold MIA NE
81 F C.J. Ham MIN NYJ
82 F Raheem Blackshear CAR CHI
83 F Michael Burton DEN LV
84 F Tyler Badie DEN LV
85 F Sean Tucker TB ATL
86 F Patrick Ricard BAL CIN
87 F Kenny McIntosh SEA NYG
88 F Evan Hull IND JAC
89 F Aaron Shampklin PIT DAL
90 F Trayveon Williams CIN BAL
91 F Adam Prentice NO KC
92 F Isaiah Davis NYJ MIN
93 F Jordan Mims NO KC
94 F Tyreik McAllister LV DEN
95 F Chris Rodriguez Jr. WAS CLE
96 F Patrick Taylor Jr. SF ARI
97 F J.J. Taylor HOU BUF
98 F Myles Gaskin MIN NYJ
99 F DeeJay Dallas ARI SF
100 F Avery Williams ATL TB
101 F Chris Brooks GB LAR
102 F Dylan Laube LV DEN
103 F Dalvin Cook DAL PIT

Najee Harris (RB)

Warren could return in Week 5 (knee). We’ll need a full week of practice reports to determine his Week 5 outlook. I’ll update his forecast on Friday. Harris has been solid but unspectacular this season as the RB34 in fantasy points per game. He has played at least 56% of the snaps in three of four games while averaging 19.5 touches and 78 total yards. Among 53 qualifying backs, he ranks 38th in missed tackle forced per attempt and 37th in yards after contact per attempt. Harris faces an up-and-down Dallas run defense. They locked down the Giants last week, but overall, they have been unimpressive. Dallas ranks 17th in explosive run rate and missed tackle rate and 19th in yards after contact per attempt allowed.

Rico Dowdle (RB)

Over the last two weeks, Dowdle has slowly earned more work in this backfield. He has led the way with a 53% snap share on rushing plays while playing 43.4% of the passing down snaps and logging a 55.6% snap rate inside the red zone. Dowdle has averaged 11.5 touches and 58.5 total yards. In that same period, among 40 qualifying backs, he has shown some tackle-breaking hope, ranking 17th in missed tackles forced per attempt and yards after contact per attempt. With all that said, Dowdle is a touchdown-dependent flex this week. Pittsburgh has kept backs in check, allowing the fifth-lowest explosive run rate, the third-lowest rushing yards per game, and the tenth-lowest yards after contact per attempt.

Kareem Hunt (RB)

Hunt took over as the team’s leadback last week. He played 45% of the snaps with 16 touches and 85 total yards. Hunt led the way with a 58.3% snap share on rushing plays and split the red zone snaps with Perine (50% for each player). He conceded the passing game work to Perine with only a 32.4% passing down snapshare. Hunt looked good in his first game back, with a 21% missed tackle rate and 2.71 yards after contact per attempt. We’ll see if he can maintain that level of tackle-breaking as the volume piles up. Hunt has a decent matchup this week against the Saints, who have allowed the 14th-highest explosive run rate and missed tackle rate while also surrendering the fourth-highest yards before contact per attempt. The Chiefs’ offensive line has done a decent job of opening up room for the backs, ranking 14th-best in yards before contact per attempt.

Aaron Jones (RB)

Jones continues to crush this season as the RB8 in fantasy points per game. He has averaged 20 touches and 116.1 total yards. Among 53 qualifying running backs, he ranks seventh in explosive run rate and fourth in yards after contact per attempt. Jones should be the engine of the Vikings offense this week. The strength of the Jets’ defense is their secondary, but you can run on this defense. The Jets have allowed the seventh-highest missed tackle rate, the third-highest yards after contact per attempt, the 11th-highest yards per carry to zone runs, and the tenth-highest success rate to zone runs (Jones 56.3% zone).

Chase Brown (RB)

Last week Brown played a season-high 40% of snaps producing 92 total yards and two scores with his 17 touches. He ate into Moss’s workload with a 50% rushing play snap rate and a 67% red zone snap rate. Brown has been lightning in a bottle. When he has received touches, he has made the most of his opportunities. Among 55 qualifying backs, Brown ranks 13th in explosive run rate, 15th in missed tackles forced per attempt, and third in yards after contact per attempt. Unfortunately, he’s tasked with a horrendous matchup for Week 5. Baltimore has allowed the second-lowest explosive run rate, the fewest rushing yards per game, and the lowest yards after contact per attempt.

Zack Moss (RB)

Moss is the RB21 in fantasy points per game, but Week 4 saw the rug get pulled out from under him as Chase Brown was more involved. It was the first game that Moss played less than 65% of the snaps (60%). Moos still finished with 19 touches and 78 total yards. In Week 4, he saw his rushing snap rate fall from 71.2% (in Weeks 1-3) to 50%, and his red zone snap rate plummet to 36.4% (Brown 63.6%). Moss hasn’t been overly impressive on a per-touch basis. Among 55 qualifying backs, he ranks 28th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 32nd in yards after contact per attempt. This is a horrible matchup for Moss. Baltimore has allowed the second-lowest explosive run rate, the fewest rushing yards per game, and the lowest yards after contact per attempt.

Chuba Hubbard (RB)

With Dalton under center, Hubbard has been the RB4 in fantasy points per game, averaging a 66% snap rate, 24 touches, and 145 total yards. Among 53 qualifying backs this season, Hubbard ranks 18th in explosive run rate and 14th in yards after contact per attempt. Hubbard faces a run defense this week that has done a solid job of shutting down zone rushers. Overall, Chicago has allowed the eighth-lowest missed tackle rate and the 11th-lowest yards after contact per attempt. They have also held rushers to the seventh-lowest zone success rate (Hubbard 76.4% zone).

D’Andre Swift (RB)

Last week taught us simply to start all your running backs against the Rams this season. Before Week 4, Swift hadn’t had more than 30 rushing yards or 24 receiving yards in any game this season. Last week, he played 63% of the snaps with 23 touches and 165 total yards as the RB3 for the week. Swift played better last week with a 25% missed tackle rate, but his 1.50 yards after contact per attempt is more telling. The wonderful matchup last week really helped him, as he had 4.3 yards before contact per attempt. He legit was able to chew up four yards per carry before encountering any resistance. Overall, among 53 qualifying backs, Swift ranks 27th in explosive run rate, 32nd in missed tackles forced per attempt, and 53rd in yards after contact per attempt. Carolina offers another juicy matchup for Swift to pad his stats this week. Carolina has allowed the tenth-highest yards after contact per attempt, the fourth-most rushing yards per game, the third-highest yards per carry to zone runs, and the sixth-highest success rate to zone runs (Swift 57% zone).

Roschon Johnson (RB)

Last week’s “extended look” at Roschon Johnson looked eerily similar to Week 3. Johnson didn’t see an expanded role in the offense, as he had the exact same snap rate (37%) while handling seven touches and producing 26 rushing yards. Swift took back the red zone snap lead, too (54.5% vs. 45.5%). We found out last year that this coaching staff can’t be trusted with running back usage and reporting. Well, it remains early in the 2024 season, but once again, we have been “Eberflused.” Johnson rolls back into the desperation flex play or RB3 area code. Carolina has allowed the tenth-highest yards after contact per attempt and the fourth-most rushing yards per game.

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Week 5 Tight End Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A+ Travis Kelce KC NO
2 A George Kittle SF ARI
3 A- Jake Ferguson DAL PIT
4 B+ Trey McBride ARI SF
5 B Brock Bowers LV DEN
6 B Dalton Kincaid BUF HOU
7 B- Tucker Kraft GB LAR
8 C+ Pat Freiermuth PIT DAL
9 C David Njoku CLE WAS
10 C Kyle Pitts ATL TB
11 C- Cole Kmet CHI CAR
12 C- Evan Engram JAC IND
13 D+ Colby Parkinson LAR GB
14 D+ Isaiah Likely BAL CIN
15 D+ Dalton Schultz HOU BUF
16 D Mark Andrews BAL CIN
17 D Zach Ertz WAS CLE
18 D Cade Otton TB ATL
19 D Hunter Henry NE MIA
20 D Mike Gesicki CIN BAL
21 D Tyler Conklin NYJ MIN
22 D Noah Fant SEA NYG
23 D- Juwan Johnson NO KC
24 F Erick All Jr. CIN BAL
25 F Taysom Hill NO KC
26 F Noah Gray KC NO
27 F Jonnu Smith MIA NE
28 F Johnny Mundt MIN NYJ
29 F Greg Dulcich DEN LV
30 F Brenton Strange JAC IND
31 F Luke Musgrave GB LAR
32 F Tommy Tremble CAR CHI
33 F Dawson Knox BUF HOU
34 F Elijah Higgins ARI SF
35 F Jordan Akins CLE WAS
36 F Austin Hooper NE MIA
37 F Theo Johnson NYG SEA
38 F Kylen Granson IND JAC
39 F Foster Moreau NO KC
40 F Ja’Tavion Sanders CAR CHI
41 F Jeremy Ruckert NYJ MIN
42 F Gerald Everett CHI CAR
43 F Josh Oliver MIN NYJ
44 F Darnell Washington PIT DAL
45 F AJ Barner SEA NYG
46 F Harrison Bryant LV DEN
47 F Drew Ogletree IND JAC
48 F John Bates WAS CLE
49 F Mo Alie-Cox IND JAC
50 F Cade Stover HOU BUF
51 F Pharaoh Brown SEA NYG
52 F Will Mallory IND JAC
53 F Luke Farrell JAC IND
54 F Luke Schoonmaker DAL PIT
55 F Nate Adkins DEN LV
56 F Drew Sample CIN BAL
57 F Adam Trautman DEN LV
58 F Durham Smythe MIA NE
59 F Daniel Bellinger NYG SEA
60 F Connor Heyward PIT DAL
61 F Davis Allen LAR GB
62 F Ben Sinnott WAS CLE
63 F Charlie Woerner ATL TB
64 F Hunter Long LAR GB
65 F Julian Hill MIA NE
66 F Eric Saubert SF ARI
67 F Michael Mayer LV DEN
68 F Jared Wiley KC NO
69 F Ross Dwelley ATL TB
70 F Tanner Hudson CIN BAL
71 F Quintin Morris BUF HOU
72 F Charlie Kolar BAL CIN
73 F Payne Durham TB ATL
74 F Chris Manhertz NYG SEA
75 F Marcedes Lewis CHI CAR
76 F Brevyn Spann-Ford DAL PIT
77 F Ko Kieft TB ATL
78 F Tanner Conner MIA NE
79 F Jake Tonges SF ARI
80 F Blake Whiteheart CLE WAS
81 F Tip Reiman ARI SF
82 F Brady Russell SEA NYG
83 F MyCole Pruitt PIT DAL
84 F Geoff Swaim CLE WAS
85 F Cole Turner WAS CLE
86 F Ben Sims GB LAR

Tyler Conklin (TE)

Conklin’s box score explosion was short-lived. In Week 4, he came crashing back to earth with 17 receiving yards despite drawing eight targets. Overall, he has a 12.5% target share, 1.06 YPRR, and a paltry 7.5% first-read share. He has drawn only one red zone target. Conklin could see an elevated role again this week and produce with his volume. Minnesota has the highest two high rate in the NFL (78.6%). Against two high, Conklin has seen his target share increase to 16.4% while his YPRR has bumped to a strong 1.75. His first read share remains a watered-down 8.9%, so it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for Conklin. The matchup is wonderful, though. Minnesota has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game and the seventh-most receiving yards to tight ends.

Mike Gesicki (TE)

Last week, Gesicki only managed one target, but he was still Cincy’s starting tight end with a 53% route share. Overall, this season, Gesicki has a 14.2% target share, 1.96 YPRR, and a 17.8% first-read share. Gesicki has two end zone targets as the TE14 in fantasy points per game. Gesicki is a fringe TE1 again this week. Baltimore has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game and the second-most receiving yards to tight ends.

Mark Andrews (TE)

Andrews’ fantasy appeal is on life support. Last week, he only had a 30% route share and a 5.3% target share. Even if we expand our gaze to the last two weeks, the outlook isn’t any prettier. Since Week 3, Andrews has had a 27% route share, a 5.9% target share, and zero receptions. I just don’t get it, but this is where we are with the Baltimore passing attack. At this point, we need a prove-it game from Andrews in order to trust him in a fantasy lineup. That’s a sentence I never thought I’d type, but it’s true. Cincy doesn’t offer a rosie outlook for Andrews this week. The Bengals have held tight ends to the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game and the tenth-fewest receiving yards.

Zach Ertz (TE)

Ertz is the TE11 in fantasy points per game, commanding a 15.1% target share and a 14.5% first-read share while producing 1.55 YPRR and 37.5 receiving yards per game. Ertz’s volume has been a bit hollow as he has yet to draw a deep target or a target inside the red zone. This is a week to consider other streaming options at tight end. Cleveland has given up the 12th-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends.

Hunter Henry (TE)

Henry leads the team in route share (74.1%), target share (17.4%), receiving yards per game (37), YPRR (1.48) and ranks third in first-read share (13.7%). Outside of his massive Week 2 performance, Henry hasn’t surpassed 18 receiving yards in any game this season. Henry is a must-sit this week. The matchup is brutal. Miami has held tight ends to the ninth-fewest fantasy points per game and the tenth-fewest receiving yards per game.

Tucker Kraft (TE)

Last week, with Love back, Kraft had an 84% route share, a 13% target share, 1.13 YPRR, 53 receiving yards, and an 11.1% first-read share. Overall, this season, Kraft is the TE12 in fantasy points per game. Kraft is tied for the team lead in red zone targets with four. Kraft is a low-end TE1 this week against a Rams pass defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game and the seventh-most receiving yards to tight ends.

Colby Parkinson (TE)

Parkinson is a match-up-based streamer when the match-up is right. It’s right this week. Green Bay has allowed the 12th-most receiving yards and the eighth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. Parkinson is the TE21 in fantasy points per game, drawing a 13.7% target share with 0.97 YPRR and a 14.1% first-read share. He’s second on the team with four red zone targets.

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Week 5 Defense / Special Teams Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A+ New York Jets NYJ MIN
2 A Seattle Seahawks SEA NYG
3 A Chicago Bears CHI CAR
4 B+ Minnesota Vikings MIN NYJ
5 B+ Denver Broncos DEN LV
6 B+ Baltimore Ravens BAL CIN
7 B Miami Dolphins MIA NE
8 B San Francisco 49ers SF ARI
9 B New England Patriots NE MIA
10 B Green Bay Packers GB LAR
11 B- Tampa Bay Buccaneers TB ATL
12 B- Cleveland Browns CLE WAS
13 C+ Las Vegas Raiders LV DEN
14 C Kansas City Chiefs KC NO
15 C- Indianapolis Colts IND JAC
16 D+ Dallas Cowboys DAL PIT
17 D Pittsburgh Steelers PIT DAL
18 D Jacksonville Jaguars JAC IND
19 D New Orleans Saints NO KC
20 D Buffalo Bills BUF HOU
21 D Washington Commanders WAS CLE
22 D Carolina Panthers CAR CHI
23 D Atlanta Falcons ATL TB
24 D- New York Giants NYG SEA
25 F Houston Texans HOU BUF
26 F Los Angeles Rams LAR GB
27 F Arizona Cardinals ARI SF
28 F Cincinnati Bengals CIN BAL

 

Week 5 Kicker Start/Sit Grades

Rank Grade Name Team Week 5
1 A Justin Tucker BAL CIN
2 A Brandon Aubrey DAL PIT
3 B Jake Moody SF ARI
4 B Harrison Butker KC NO
5 B- Chase McLaughlin TB ATL
6 C+ Ka’imi Fairbairn HOU BUF
7 C+ Younghoe Koo ATL TB
8 C+ Tyler Bass BUF HOU
9 C+ Evan McPherson CIN BAL
10 C Cairo Santos CHI CAR
11 C Jason Myers SEA NYG
12 C Matt Prater ARI SF
13 C Dustin Hopkins CLE WAS
14 C Greg Zuerlein NYJ MIN
15 C Chris Boswell PIT DAL
16 C- Austin Seibert WAS CLE
17 C- Cam Little JAC IND
18 C- Blake Grupe NO KC
19 C- Wil Lutz DEN LV
20 C- Will Reichard MIN NYJ
21 D+ Daniel Carlson LV DEN
22 D Eddy Pineiro CAR CHI
23 D Joshua Karty LAR GB
24 D Brayden Narveson GB LAR
25 D Jason Sanders MIA NE
26 D Matt Gay IND JAC
27 D- Greg Joseph NYG SEA
28 D- Joey Slye NE MIA

 

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