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.
- Week 5 Rankings with Fitz
- Weekly Fantasy Football Expert Rankings
- Fantasy Football Start/Sit Advice
- Fantasy Football Trade Tools
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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 | Jayden Daniels | WAS | CLE |
4 | A | Jordan Love | GB | LAR |
5 | A | Brock Purdy | SF | ARI |
6 | B+ | Justin Fields | PIT | DAL |
7 | B+ | C.J. Stroud | HOU | BUF |
8 | B | Kyler Murray | ARI | SF |
9 | B | Joe Burrow | CIN | BAL |
10 | B | Geno Smith | SEA | NYG |
11 | B- | Baker Mayfield | TB | ATL |
12 | B- | Patrick Mahomes II | KC | NO |
13 | C+ | Trevor Lawrence | JAC | IND |
14 | C+ | Deshaun Watson | CLE | WAS |
15 | C | Dak Prescott | DAL | PIT |
16 | C | Caleb Williams | CHI | CAR |
17 | C | Kirk Cousins | ATL | TB |
18 | C- | Sam Darnold | MIN | NYJ |
19 | C- | Joe Flacco | IND | JAC |
20 | D+ | Matthew Stafford | LAR | GB |
21 | D | Andy Dalton | CAR | CHI |
22 | D- | Derek Carr | NO | KC |
23 | D- | Aaron Rodgers | NYJ | MIN |
24 | F | 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 | Drake Maye | NE | MIA |
30 | F | Aidan O’Connell | LV | DEN |
31 | F | Jameis Winston | CLE | WAS |
32 | F | Malik Willis | GB | LAR |
33 | F | Tim Boyle | MIA | NE |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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+ | Nico Collins | HOU | BUF |
3 | A+ | Justin Jefferson | MIN | NYJ |
4 | A+ | Ja’Marr Chase | CIN | BAL |
5 | A+ | Jayden Reed | GB | LAR |
6 | A+ | DK Metcalf | SEA | NYG |
7 | A | Marvin Harrison Jr. | ARI | SF |
8 | A | Deebo Samuel Sr. | SF | ARI |
9 | A | Chris Godwin | TB | ATL |
10 | A | Chris Olave | NO | KC |
11 | A | Mike Evans | TB | ATL |
12 | A | Diontae Johnson | CAR | CHI |
13 | A | George Pickens | PIT | DAL |
14 | A | Garrett Wilson | NYJ | MIN |
15 | A | Drake London | ATL | TB |
16 | A- | Stefon Diggs | HOU | BUF |
17 | A- | Brandon Aiyuk | SF | ARI |
18 | A- | Amari Cooper | CLE | WAS |
19 | A- | DJ Moore | CHI | CAR |
20 | B+ | Zay Flowers | BAL | CIN |
21 | B+ | Dontayvion Wicks | GB | LAR |
22 | B+ | Terry McLaurin | WAS | CLE |
23 | B+ | Michael Pittman Jr. | IND | JAC |
24 | B | Brian Thomas Jr. | JAC | IND |
25 | B | Christian Kirk | JAC | IND |
26 | B | Tee Higgins | CIN | BAL |
27 | B | Tyreek Hill | MIA | NE |
28 | B | Rashid Shaheed | NO | KC |
29 | B- | Xavier Worthy | KC | NO |
30 | B- | Jaxon Smith-Njigba | SEA | NYG |
31 | B- | Wan’Dale Robinson | NYG | SEA |
32 | B- | Courtland Sutton | DEN | LV |
33 | B- | Jerry Jeudy | CLE | WAS |
34 | C+ | Josh Downs | IND | JAC |
35 | C+ | Tank Dell | HOU | BUF |
36 | C+ | Darnell Mooney | ATL | TB |
37 | C+ | Keenan Allen | CHI | CAR |
38 | C+ | Jaylen Waddle | MIA | NE |
39 | C+ | Xavier Legette | CAR | CHI |
40 | C+ | Rome Odunze | CHI | CAR |
41 | C+ | Tutu Atwell | LAR | GB |
42 | C | Tyler Lockett | SEA | NYG |
43 | C | Jakobi Meyers | LV | DEN |
44 | C | Jordan Addison | MIN | NYJ |
45 | C | Jordan Whittington | LAR | GB |
46 | C | Jauan Jennings | SF | ARI |
47 | C | Tre Tucker | LV | DEN |
48 | C | Curtis Samuel | BUF | HOU |
49 | C | Keon Coleman | BUF | HOU |
50 | C | Allen Lazard | NYJ | MIN |
51 | C- | Jalen Tolbert | DAL | PIT |
52 | C- | Bo Melton | GB | LAR |
53 | C- | Demarcus Robinson | LAR | GB |
54 | C- | Michael Wilson | ARI | SF |
55 | C- | Mike Williams | NYJ | MIN |
56 | C- | Darius Slayton | NYG | SEA |
57 | C- | Rashod Bateman | BAL | CIN |
58 | D+ | Gabe Davis | JAC | IND |
59 | D+ | Ray-Ray McCloud III | ATL | TB |
60 | D+ | Greg Dortch | ARI | SF |
61 | D | Andrei Iosivas | CIN | BAL |
62 | D | Alec Pierce | IND | JAC |
63 | D | Justin Watson | KC | NO |
64 | D | Josh Reynolds | DEN | LV |
65 | D | DeMario Douglas | NE | MIA |
66 | D- | Ja’Lynn Polk | NE | MIA |
67 | D- | Luke McCaffrey | WAS | CLE |
68 | D- | Jonathan Mingo | CAR | CHI |
69 | D- | JuJu Smith-Schuster | KC | NO |
70 | F | Elijah Moore | CLE | WAS |
71 | F | Mack Hollins | BUF | HOU |
72 | F | Jalen Nailor | MIN | NYJ |
73 | F | Sterling Shepard | TB | ATL |
74 | F | Calvin Austin III | PIT | DAL |
75 | F | Olamide Zaccheaus | WAS | CLE |
76 | F | Lil’Jordan Humphrey | DEN | LV |
77 | F | KaVontae Turpin | DAL | PIT |
78 | F | Adonai Mitchell | IND | JAC |
79 | F | Nelson Agholor | BAL | CIN |
80 | F | Van Jefferson | PIT | DAL |
81 | F | Tyler Johnson | LAR | GB |
82 | F | K.J. Osborn | NE | MIA |
83 | F | Jalen Brooks | DAL | PIT |
84 | F | Jalin Hyatt | NYG | SEA |
85 | F | DJ Turner | LV | DEN |
86 | F | Marquez Valdes-Scantling | BUF | HOU |
87 | F | Mason Tipton | NO | KC |
88 | F | Dyami Brown | WAS | CLE |
89 | F | Troy Franklin | DEN | LV |
90 | F | Brandon Powell | MIN | NYJ |
91 | F | Malik Heath | GB | LAR |
92 | F | Skyy Moore | KC | NO |
93 | F | Robert Woods | HOU | BUF |
94 | F | Mecole Hardman Jr. | KC | NO |
95 | F | Xavier Gipson | NYJ | MIN |
96 | F | Marvin Mims Jr. | DEN | LV |
97 | F | Bryce Ford-Wheaton | NYG | SEA |
98 | F | Parker Washington | JAC | IND |
99 | F | Cedric Tillman | CLE | WAS |
100 | F | Jake Bobo | SEA | NYG |
101 | F | Braxton Berrios | MIA | NE |
102 | F | Scotty Miller | PIT | DAL |
103 | F | Kameron Johnson | TB | ATL |
104 | F | Tyquan Thornton | NE | MIA |
105 | F | Laviska Shenault Jr. | SEA | NYG |
106 | F | David Moore | CAR | CHI |
107 | F | Jermaine Burton | CIN | BAL |
108 | F | Malik Washington | MIA | NE |
109 | F | Kayshon Boutte | NE | MIA |
110 | F | Kendrick Bourne | NE | MIA |
111 | F | Cedrick Wilson Jr. | NO | KC |
112 | F | DeAndre Carter | CHI | CAR |
113 | F | Ihmir Smith-Marsette | NYG | SEA |
114 | F | Devin Duvernay | JAC | IND |
115 | F | Xavier Hutchinson | HOU | BUF |
116 | F | Ashton Dulin | IND | JAC |
117 | F | Bub Means | NO | KC |
118 | F | Trenton Irwin | CIN | BAL |
119 | F | Jalen Coker | CAR | CHI |
120 | F | Devontez Walker | BAL | CIN |
121 | F | Trent Sherfield Sr. | MIN | NYJ |
122 | F | Chris Moore | ARI | SF |
123 | F | Jacob Cowing | SF | ARI |
124 | F | Charlie Jones | CIN | BAL |
125 | F | Chris Conley | SF | ARI |
126 | F | Odell Beckham Jr. | MIA | NE |
127 | F | Malachi Corley | NYJ | MIN |
128 | F | Isaiah Hodgins | NYG | SEA |
129 | F | Tylan Wallace | BAL | CIN |
130 | F | KhaDarel Hodge | ATL | TB |
131 | F | James Proche II | CLE | WAS |
132 | F | Casey Washington | ATL | TB |
133 | F | Dee Eskridge | MIA | NE |
134 | F | Erik Ezukanma | MIA | NE |
135 | F | Zach Pascal | ARI | SF |
136 | F | Ryan Flournoy | DAL | PIT |
137 | F | Deonte Harty | BAL | CIN |
138 | F | Tim Jones | JAC | IND |
139 | F | Tyler Scott | CHI | CAR |
140 | F | Roman Wilson | PIT | DAL |
141 | F | Javon Baker | NE | MIA |
142 | F | Devaughn Vele | DEN | LV |
143 | F | John Metchie III | HOU | BUF |
144 | F | Steven Sims Jr. | HOU | BUF |
145 | F | Dareke Young | SEA | NYG |
146 | F | Cody Thompson | TB | ATL |
147 | F | Ronnie Bell | SF | ARI |
148 | F | Jamari Thrash | CLE | WAS |
149 | F | Irvin Charles | NYJ | MIN |
150 | F | Xavier Weaver | ARI | SF |
151 | F | Velus Jones Jr. | CHI | CAR |
152 | F | Trishton Jackson | MIN | NYJ |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 | Kenneth Walker III | SEA | NYG |
5 | A | Alvin Kamara | NO | KC |
6 | A | Bijan Robinson | ATL | TB |
7 | A | Aaron Jones | MIN | NYJ |
8 | A | Breece Hall | NYJ | MIN |
9 | A | Josh Jacobs | GB | LAR |
10 | A | James Cook | BUF | HOU |
11 | A- | Chuba Hubbard | CAR | CHI |
12 | A- | Travis Etienne Jr. | JAC | IND |
13 | A- | James Conner | ARI | SF |
14 | A- | Brian Robinson Jr. | WAS | CLE |
15 | A- | Najee Harris | PIT | DAL |
16 | B+ | D’Andre Swift | CHI | CAR |
17 | B+ | Jerome Ford | CLE | WAS |
18 | B+ | De’Von Achane | MIA | NE |
19 | B | Javonte Williams | DEN | LV |
20 | B | Kareem Hunt | KC | NO |
21 | B | Zack Moss | CIN | BAL |
22 | B- | Rhamondre Stevenson | NE | MIA |
23 | B- | Alexander Mattison | LV | DEN |
24 | B- | Rico Dowdle | DAL | PIT |
25 | C+ | Trey Sermon | IND | JAC |
26 | C+ | Rachaad White | TB | ATL |
27 | C+ | Cam Akers | HOU | BUF |
28 | C+ | Bucky Irving | TB | ATL |
29 | C | Antonio Gibson | NE | MIA |
30 | C | Tyler Allgeier | ATL | TB |
31 | C | Chase Brown | CIN | BAL |
32 | C | Austin Ekeler | WAS | CLE |
33 | C | Roschon Johnson | CHI | CAR |
34 | C | Tyrone Tracy Jr. | NYG | SEA |
35 | C | Braelon Allen | NYJ | MIN |
36 | C | Justice Hill | BAL | CIN |
37 | C | Tank Bigsby | JAC | IND |
38 | C- | Zach Charbonnet | SEA | NYG |
39 | C- | Emanuel Wilson | GB | LAR |
40 | D+ | Jaleel McLaughlin | DEN | LV |
41 | D+ | Samaje Perine | KC | NO |
42 | D | Miles Sanders | CAR | CHI |
43 | D | Raheem Mostert | MIA | NE |
44 | D | Ty Chandler | MIN | NYJ |
45 | D | D’Onta Foreman | CLE | WAS |
46 | D- | Ezekiel Elliott | DAL | PIT |
47 | D- | Tyler Goodson | IND | JAC |
48 | F | Ray Davis | BUF | HOU |
49 | F | Jamaal Williams | NO | KC |
50 | F | Ty Johnson | BUF | HOU |
51 | F | Isaac Guerendo | SF | ARI |
52 | F | Carson Steele | KC | NO |
53 | F | Dare Ogunbowale | HOU | BUF |
54 | F | Jaylen Wright | MIA | NE |
55 | F | Trey Benson | ARI | SF |
56 | F | Ronnie Rivers | LAR | GB |
57 | F | Emari Demercado | ARI | SF |
58 | F | Eric Gray | NYG | SEA |
59 | F | Khalil Herbert | CHI | CAR |
60 | F | Dameon Pierce | HOU | BUF |
61 | F | Kyle Juszczyk | SF | ARI |
62 | F | Jeremy McNichols | WAS | CLE |
63 | F | Ameer Abdullah | LV | DEN |
64 | F | D’Ernest Johnson | JAC | IND |
65 | F | JaMycal Hasty | NE | MIA |
66 | F | Deuce Vaughn | DAL | PIT |
67 | F | Blake Corum | LAR | GB |
68 | F | Jeff Wilson Jr. | MIA | NE |
69 | F | Dylan Laube | LV | DEN |
70 | F | Jonathan Ward | PIT | DAL |
71 | F | Pierre Strong Jr. | CLE | WAS |
72 | F | Hunter Luepke | DAL | PIT |
73 | F | Aaron Shampklin | PIT | DAL |
74 | F | Alec Ingold | MIA | NE |
75 | F | Devin Singletary | NYG | SEA |
76 | F | Blake Watson | DEN | LV |
77 | F | Patrick Ricard | BAL | CIN |
78 | F | J.J. Taylor | HOU | BUF |
79 | F | Evan Hull | IND | JAC |
80 | F | Michael Burton | DEN | LV |
81 | F | C.J. Ham | MIN | NYJ |
82 | F | Kenny McIntosh | SEA | NYG |
83 | F | Raheem Blackshear | CAR | CHI |
84 | F | Adam Prentice | NO | KC |
85 | F | Isaiah Davis | NYJ | MIN |
86 | F | Trayveon Williams | CIN | BAL |
87 | F | Tyreik McAllister | LV | DEN |
88 | F | Sean Tucker | TB | ATL |
89 | F | Kendre Miller | NO | KC |
90 | F | Chris Brooks | GB | LAR |
91 | F | Patrick Taylor Jr. | SF | ARI |
92 | F | Gary Brightwell | CLE | WAS |
93 | F | Jordan Mims | NO | KC |
94 | F | Chris Rodriguez Jr. | WAS | CLE |
95 | F | British Brooks | HOU | BUF |
96 | F | DeeJay Dallas | ARI | SF |
97 | F | Avery Williams | ATL | TB |
98 | F | Dante Miller | NYG | SEA |
99 | F | Reggie Gilliam | BUF | HOU |
100 | F | Myles Gaskin | MIN | NYJ |
101 | F | Cody Schrader | LAR | GB |
102 | F | Mike Boone | CAR | CHI |
103 | F | Dalvin Cook | DAL | PIT |
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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- | Trey McBride* | ARI | SF |
4 | B+ | Jake Ferguson | DAL | PIT |
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 | Cole Kmet | CHI | CAR |
10 | C | David Njoku | CLE | WAS |
11 | C- | Kyle Pitts | ATL | TB |
12 | D+ | Evan Engram | JAC | IND |
13 | D+ | Isaiah Likely | BAL | CIN |
14 | D+ | Tyler Conklin | NYJ | MIN |
15 | D | Cade Otton | TB | ATL |
16 | D | Mark Andrews | BAL | CIN |
17 | D | Colby Parkinson | LAR | GB |
18 | D | Zach Ertz | WAS | CLE |
19 | D | Dalton Schultz | HOU | BUF |
20 | D- | Juwan Johnson | NO | KC |
21 | D- | Mike Gesicki | CIN | BAL |
22 | D- | Hunter Henry | NE | MIA |
23 | F | Noah Fant | SEA | NYG |
24 | F | Noah Gray | KC | NO |
25 | F | Erick All Jr. | CIN | BAL |
26 | F | Johnny Mundt | MIN | NYJ |
27 | F | Greg Dulcich | DEN | LV |
28 | F | Jonnu Smith | MIA | NE |
29 | F | Brenton Strange | JAC | IND |
30 | F | Theo Johnson | NYG | SEA |
31 | F | Tommy Tremble | CAR | CHI |
32 | F | Dawson Knox | BUF | HOU |
33 | F | Austin Hooper | NE | MIA |
34 | F | Kylen Granson | IND | JAC |
35 | F | Foster Moreau | NO | KC |
36 | F | Jordan Akins | CLE | WAS |
37 | F | Elijah Higgins | ARI | SF |
38 | F | Ja’Tavion Sanders | CAR | CHI |
39 | F | Harrison Bryant | LV | DEN |
40 | F | Jeremy Ruckert | NYJ | MIN |
41 | F | Josh Oliver | MIN | NYJ |
42 | F | Gerald Everett | CHI | CAR |
43 | F | Darnell Washington | PIT | DAL |
44 | F | AJ Barner | SEA | NYG |
45 | F | Drew Ogletree | IND | JAC |
46 | F | Cade Stover | HOU | BUF |
47 | F | John Bates | WAS | CLE |
48 | F | Luke Musgrave | GB | LAR |
49 | F | Taysom Hill | NO | KC |
50 | F | Pharaoh Brown | SEA | NYG |
51 | F | Luke Schoonmaker | DAL | PIT |
52 | F | Will Mallory | IND | JAC |
53 | F | Daniel Bellinger | NYG | SEA |
54 | F | Nate Adkins | DEN | LV |
55 | F | Drew Sample | CIN | BAL |
56 | F | Adam Trautman | DEN | LV |
57 | F | Connor Heyward | PIT | DAL |
58 | F | Mo Alie-Cox | IND | JAC |
59 | F | Ben Sinnott | WAS | CLE |
60 | F | Luke Farrell | JAC | IND |
61 | F | Charlie Woerner | ATL | TB |
62 | F | Durham Smythe | MIA | NE |
63 | F | Eric Saubert | SF | ARI |
64 | F | Hunter Long | LAR | GB |
65 | F | Jared Wiley | KC | NO |
66 | F | Julian Hill | MIA | NE |
67 | F | Davis Allen | LAR | GB |
68 | F | Cole Turner | WAS | CLE |
69 | F | Ross Dwelley | ATL | TB |
70 | F | Tanner Hudson | CIN | BAL |
71 | F | Payne Durham | TB | ATL |
72 | F | Charlie Kolar | BAL | CIN |
73 | F | Tip Reiman | ARI | SF |
74 | F | Ben Sims | GB | LAR |
75 | F | Quintin Morris | BUF | HOU |
76 | F | Chris Manhertz | NYG | SEA |
77 | F | Jaheim Bell | NE | MIA |
78 | F | Tanner Conner | MIA | NE |
79 | F | Marcedes Lewis | CHI | CAR |
80 | F | Blake Whiteheart | CLE | WAS |
81 | F | Ko Kieft | TB | ATL |
82 | F | Brevyn Spann-Ford | DAL | PIT |
83 | F | Jake Tonges | SF | ARI |
84 | F | Brady Russell | SEA | NYG |
85 | F | Geoff Swaim | CLE | WAS |
86 | F | Robert Tonyan | MIN | NYJ |
87 | F | John Samuel Shenker | LV | DEN |
88 | F | Brenden Bates | NYJ | MIN |
91 | F | Dallin Holker | NO | KC |
92 | F | Jordan Matthews | CAR | CHI |
* Downgraded to Questionable Saturday.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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