Fantasy Football Player Notes
Week 9 Rankings
1.
Saquon Barkley
RB - PHI (vs . JAC)
Saquon Barkley has continued to be a focal point of Philadelphia's offense since the team's Week 5 bye. He has had at least 20 opportunities (carries plus targets) in all three games. However, his fantasy results have been inconsistent. That is largely the product of Jalen Hurts vulturing five rushing scores in that span. Unfortunately, we as fantasy managers do not get to call the plays. All we can do is start the players who have a high likelihood of scoring, and Saquon Barkley remains at the top of that list. That should remain the case in a game the Eagles should dominate against a weak Jacksonville Jaguars defense. Barkley has as high a ceiling as any running back in the league this week.
|
2.
Kyren Williams
RB - LAR (at SEA)
Kyren Williams continues to be one of the safest bets for weekly production at the running back position. The Rams' running back has finished every week inside the top 20 and enters Week 9 as the overall RB3 on a per-game basis. This week's matchup with the Seattle Seahawks should provide Williams another opportunity to produce at a high level. Seattle has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. Keep Kyren Williams in the upper tier of RB1s this week.
|
3.
Derrick Henry
RB - BAL (vs . DEN)
Derrick Henry scored in an eighth straight game last week, though he fell a bit short of his lofty year-to-date fantasy scoring. This week the Ravens host the Denver Broncos. Denver has been an above-average run defense by most measures. Because of that, Henry may not have the upside that some of the other running backs inside the consensus top five possess this week. Having said that, Henry can go off on any defense at any time, so keep him entrenched as an RB1.
|
4.
Bijan Robinson
RB - ATL (vs . DAL)
Bijan Robinson has now eclipsed 20 fantasy points in three straight games. Each has resulted in a top-10 weekly finish. That outcome is certainly within reach this week when the Atlanta Falcons host the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas has given up the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs and ranks 31st in DVOA against the run. Robinson has three or more receptions in seven of eight games this season, raising his weekly floor. He should be a solid RB1 in Week 9.
|
5.
Joe Mixon
RB - HOU (at NYJ)
Five games played, four games inside the top-six for Houston Texans' running back Joe Mixon. Mixon has handled at least 27 touches in three of his five games this season. On one hand, that volume seems unsustainable. But with Nico Collins still on Injured Reserve and Stefon Diggs out for the season, Mixon should continue to be heavily involved. A game on the road on a short week is not ideal, but a matchup with the New York Jets is a bit softer than may be perceived. New York has been a below-average run defense this season. Mixon is a volume-based RB1 on Thursday night in Week 9.
|
6.
Kenneth Walker III
RB - SEA (vs . LAR)
Kenneth Walker III has been a victim of negative gamescript on more than one occasion in recent weeks. He carried the ball just nine times for 12 yards in a blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills. It is the second time in the last four games that Walker III was been held below 20 rushing yards on fewer than 10 carries. The expectation this week is that Walker III will be more involved. Seattle is a slight underdog, but they should remain competitive against the Los Angeles Rams. Los Angeles also has a poor run defense, which could benefit Walker III. Kenneth Walker has a wide range of outcomes but should justify his starting spot in fantasy lineups in Week 9.
|
7.
Alvin Kamara
RB - NO (at CAR)
Alvin Kamara surpassed 100 scrimmage yards last week for the first time since Week 3. However, the lack of a touchdown prevented a top-12 weekly fantasy finish. Kamara has now gone four straight weeks without finishing inside the top 12. But a matchup with the Carolina Panthers could cure that for Kamara and his fantasy managers. The Panthers have allowed 15 touchdowns to opposing running backs this year. No other team has given up more than 11. With quarterback Derek Carr set to return, Kamara could return to his early-season form this week.
|
8.
Breece Hall
RB - NYJ (vs . HOU)
Just when it looked like Breece Hall was back on track, he catches one pass and goes for 89 scoreless yards against a poor New England Patriots run defense. A matchup with the Houston Texans on a short week is a tough one for Hall on paper. The Texans rank fourth in the NFL in DVOA against the run. They are also third in limiting running backs as receivers out of the backfield. I do not think you can justify benching Breece Hall this week. But this feels like a week where he is closer to a fringe RB1 in 12-team leagues as opposed to an easy top-10 back.
|
9.
Jonathan Taylor
RB - IND (at MIN)
Jonathan Taylor returned from a three-week absence last week and stepped right back into the bell-cow role in the Colts' rushing attack. Taylor carried the ball 20 times for 105 yards against a good Houston Texans run defense. That type of volume will always keep Taylor in the RB1 conversation, but Taylor gets another tough matchup this week against Minnesota. The switch to Joe Flacco at quarterback should force the Vikings to respect the Colts' pass game, which could open up some running lanes for Taylor. Jonathan Taylor profiles as a low-end RB1 in this matchup.
|
10.
De'Von Achane
RB - MIA (at BUF)
The biggest beneficiary from last week's return of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was not Tyreek Hill or Jaylen Waddle. It was running back De'Von Achane. Achane totaled 23.4 Half-PPR points in four games without Miami's starting quarterback and scored 23.7 last week. Buffalo's defense has been a top-10 unit against the run this year, but Achane gashed them for 165 scrimmage yards and a score back in Week 2. Even if Achane does not approach that level of production this week, he should be a reliable fantasy starter.
|
11.
Jahmyr Gibbs
RB - DET (at GB)
After taking his second carry 70 yards to the house last week, Jahmyr Gibbs was relatively quiet afterward. But that explosive run was enough to vault him into the top 10 for the week. The Detroit Lions have averaged 43 points over their last four games and almost look to be toying with opposing defenses at times. Gibbs is one of several Lions skill players who have been in on the fun. Even though Gibbs splits touches with David Montgomery and faces an above-average Green Bay Packer defense this week, there is no reason to get cute and consider benching Gibbs this week. Treat him like a low-end RB1 who has the capability and the all-around game to post top-five numbers if everything breaks right.
|
12.
James Cook
RB - BUF (vs . MIA)
James Cook led all running backs in fantasy points last week on the strength of a 133-yard, two-touchdown performance in Buffalo's win in Seattle. Consistency has not been Cook's strong suit from a fantasy perspective. Cook has played seven games this season. He has placed in the top six three times, and placed outside the top 20 three times. Cook's Week 9 matchup with the Miami Dolphins should benefit him. Miami has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks while ranking 28th in DVOA against the run. Cook has a relatively low floor, but he has top-10 potential in this matchup.
|
13.
Aaron Jones
RB - MIN (vs . IND)
|
14.
CeeDee Lamb
WR - DAL (at ATL)
Though I alluded to it last week, I cannot say for sure that CeeDee Lamb will repeat this year what he did last season from Week 8 on. But he flashed some of that upside last week despite Dallas losing to the San Francisco 49ers. Lamb hauled in 13 catches for 146 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. Lamb should have the opportunity to build on that performance in Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta has been a bottom-10 pass defense in most metrics, including ranking 26th in DVOA versus number-one receivers. It is safe to say Lamb qualifies considering he has 48.2 percent of all yardage accrued by Cowboys wide receivers this year. Lamb is a locked and loaded overall WR1 candidate this week.
|
15.
Justin Jefferson
WR - MIN (vs . IND)
Justin Jefferson has been the polar opposite of a disappointment to fantasy managers this season. He enters Week 9 second overall among wide receivers in total fantasy points. He is fourth on a per-game basis among wideouts with at least four games played. But he has not had a weekly finish higher than WR5 and only has two top-10 finishes among his seven games played. Perhaps a Sunday night home date with the Indianapolis Colts can provide Jefferson with the spark to get him into the overall WR1 conversation. The Colts rank 26th in DVOA against the pass and could put up more of a fight on offense with Joe Flacco under center. Jefferson has one of the safest floors in all of fantasy football, and he will max out sooner or later. He remains an elite WR1 in all formats.
|
16.
D'Andre Swift
RB - CHI (at ARI)
|
17.
Kareem Hunt
RB - KC (vs . TB)
Hunt has been a top 24 back in each of his three full starts as "the guy" for Kansas City (RB5, RB11, RB23). He has averaged 24.6 touches with only 81 total yards. Volume has been king for Hunt, while efficiency has been harder to come by. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 28th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 34th in yards after contact per attempt. He still hasn't managed one explosive run with his 84 rushing attempts. Hunt has another good matchup on the ground this week to rack up volume against. The Bucs have allowed the highest explosive run rate, the 13th-most rushing yards per game, and the 11th-highest missed tackle rate.
|
18.
James Conner
RB - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
19.
Josh Jacobs
RB - GB (vs . DET)
Jacobs has been a volume monster as the RB18 in fantasy points per game. He ranks 13th in snap share, fourth in weighted opportunities, first in carries and tenth in red zone touches among backs. He has averaged 20.2 touches and 97.8 total yards. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 17th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 14th in yards after contact per attempt. Jacobs will have a tough time this week against a stout Detroit Lions run defense that has shut down zone runs. Since Week 5, 62.2% of his Jacobs runs have been with zone concepts. The Lions have allowed the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game, the seventh-lowest yards after contact per attempt, the lowest yards per carry, and success rate to zone runs.
|
20.
David Montgomery
RB - DET (at GB)
Montgomery keeps trucking as the RB11 in fantasy points per game, ranking 20th in carries and tenth in red zone touches. He has averaged 15.3 touches and 79 total yards per game. Montgomery ranks 20th in explosive run rates and 19th in missed tackles forced per attempt. He will have to deal with an improved Packers run defense this week. Green Bay has allowed the tenth-lowest rushing yards per game, the 11th-lowest missed tackle rate, and the 12th-lowest yards after contact per attempt.
|
21.
A.J. Brown
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
A.J. Brown "only" had five catches for 84 yards last week in an easy victory versus the Cincinnati Bengals. Sarcasm aside, last week's game exhibits the massive difference that scoring a touchdown can make. Last week, Brown was the overall WR35. The week prior, he finished as the WR7 after catching five passes for 89 yards. The difference was a touchdown catch in Week 7 versus no touchdown last week. Brown is likely to find the end zone this week against a Jacksonville Jaguars squad that ranks dead last in the NFL in DVOA and EPA versus the pass. Much like Ja'Marr Chase, Brown is an efficiency-based WR1 as opposed to having to rely on an abundance of volume.
|
22.
Ja'Marr Chase
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
Ja'Marr Chase remains fantasy's top-scoring wide receiver on the season after scoring for the seventh time in six games last week. This week he and the Cincinnati Bengals face the Las Vegas Raiders. This feels like a game where Chase will not be asked to put on the Superman cape. The Bengals should be able to dispatch the Raiders without a ton of downfield pass attempts. Chase can score from anywhere on the field, which is why he is still a WR1 this week. However, the volume is likely to be less than other wide receivers in this range, even if Tee Higgins remains sidelined.
|
23.
Chase Brown
RB - CIN (vs . LV)
Brown has been the leader of the Bengals' backfield since Week 6, averaging a 56% snap rate overall while handling 74% of the rushing play snaps, 46% of the passing downs, and 79% of the red zone snaps. He has averaged 14.3 touches and 50.3 total yards during this span. Among 43 qualifying backs, Brown ranks 13th in explosive run rate, seventh in missed tackles forced per attempt, and 23rd in yards after contact per attempt. Brown should post a big game this week against a suspect Raiders run defense. Las Vegas has allowed the fourth-highest missed tackle rate, the seventh-highest yards after contact per attempt, the sixth-highest yards per carry-to-zone runs, and the ninth-highest zone success rate (Brown 55.1% zone).
|
24.
Tony Pollard
RB - TEN (vs . NE)
Pollard is the RB20 in fantasy points per game, ranking sixth in snap share, 11th in opportunity share, and seventh in weighted opportunities. He has averaged 19.3 touches and 86.2 total yards per game. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 23rd in explosive run rate and eighth in yards after contact per attempt. He faces a New England run defense that he should slash this week. The Patriots have allowed the 11th-highest rushing yards per game, the fourth-highest yards after contact per attempt, the eighth-highest yards per carry-to-gap runs, and the 13th-highest success rate to gap runs (Pollard 63.2% gap). Pollard is dealing with a foot issue and hasn't practiced all week. He has been listed as questionable. If you have Pollard, pick up Julius Chestnut now. Chestnut could be the team's workhorse this week.
|
25.
Tyreek Hill
WR - MIA (at BUF)
The good news is that the return of Tua Tagovailoa enabled Tyreek Hill to post his first double-digit fantasy scoring effort since Week 1. The bad news is that it still was not enough for him to post even WR3 production in 12-team leagues. Hill's weekly upside with Tagovailoa on the field is enough to treat him as an every-week starter. However, his Week 9 matchup is not conducive to a true breakout game. Buffalo has allowed the fifth-fewest points to opposing wide receivers this season. They also rank inside the top 10 in DVOA versus the pass. Hill profiles as a volatile WR1 based on this matchup.
|
26.
Brian Robinson Jr.
RB - WAS (at NYG)
Robinson Jr. saw his snap rate increase last week (47%). I worry he could plummet back into the 30% range after popping up with a hamstring issue this week (listed as questionable). Robinson Jr. is the RB22 in fantasy points per game, ranking 18th in carries and tenth in red zone touches. He should crush this week against the Giants' pitiful run defense. Robinson has averaged 15.7 touches and 77.2 total yards. He ravaged this defense in Week 2 with 133 rushing yards. Among 43 qualifying backs, he is 15th in explosive run rate and 20th in missed tackles forced per attempt. New York has allowed the highest missed tackle rate, the sixth-most rushing yards per game, and the third-highest explosive run rate. His volume and snapshare could cap Robinson's upside this week because he isn't 100% right now. He should still sniff 12-15 touches this week in a plus matchup, so he remains on the RB2 radar.
|
27.
J.K. Dobbins
RB - LAC (at CLE)
Dobbins is the RB17 in fantasy points per game, averaging 18.7 touches and 88.8 total yards. He is 14th in snap share, 19th in opportunity share, and 18th in weighted opportunities. Since Week 3, his tackle-breaking numbers have really taken a tumble. Among 60 qualifying backs in that span, he has logged the eighth-highest stuff rate while ranking 46th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 49th in yards after contact per attempt. As the volume has piled up, Dobbins has looked more like the back I thought we would see in 2024. I hope that he can reverse these numbers as we move through the season, but I'm not overly bullish that he will. We'll see if Dobbins can take advantage of a slightly above-average matchup against the Browns' run defense this week. Cleveland ranks 18th in yards before contact per attempt while giving up the fourth-highest explosive run rate and the tenth-highest missed tackle rate.
|
28.
Malik Nabers
WR - NYG (vs . WAS)
Malik Nabers has failed to crack the top 36 in two straight games since returning from a concussion. The issue has been the inability to connect with Daniel Jones down the field. Nabers has only been able to haul in 11 out of 21 targets over the last two games. And none of his 11 receptions have gone for longer than 16 yards. The sheer volume Nabers receives on a weekly basis will keep him in the WR1 group, but fantasy managers will have to hope that the efficiency improves.
|
29.
Amon-Ra St. Brown
WR - DET (at GB)
Amon-Ra St. Brown pulled off quite a feat last week. He caught a touchdown and yet still finished as the overall WR48 in Half-PPR scoring. That is what a 2-7-1 line will get you. With how Detroit is keeping everyone involved, we are just not seeing the same volume consistently from St. Brown that we have been accustomed to in recent years. And yet, his upside is still elite, as evidenced by his overall WR1 outing in Week 7. Fantasy managers should continue to trust St. Brown despite his volume being a bit more inconsistent than usual.
|
30.
Drake London
WR - ATL (vs . DAL)
Last week was just one of those weeks from a fantasy perspective for Falcons wide receiver Drake London. Quarterback Kirk Cousins threw for 276 and four touchdowns. Yet London could only muster four catches for 34 scoreless yards. Fantasy managers will be expecting some positive regression out of London in Week 9 when Atlanta hosts the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas is a bottom-five defense against both the run and the pass, so Cousins will have options. And he has not shied away from getting others involved. London has only once in eight games exceeded six catches or 74 receiving yards. That makes London's floor a little lower than some other wide receivers in this range. Still, the talent and matchup are enough to trust London in Week 9.
|
31.
Chuba Hubbard
RB - CAR (vs . NO)
Hubbard is the RB19 in fantasy points per game, averaging 17.8 touches and 87.6 total yards. He ranks tenth in snap share, 15th in opportunity share, and 17th in red zone touches. Among 43 qualifying backs, he is 16th in explosive run rate and 26th in yards after contact per attempt. Hubbard should have a solid day against a Saints' run defense that has allowed the 12th-highest explosive run rate, the fifth-most rushing yards per game, the fourth-highest yards per carry to zone runs, and the eighth-highest success rate to zone runs (Hubbard 66.1% zone).
|
32.
Puka Nacua
WR - LAR (at SEA)
Puka Nacua surprised many by returning to action last week for the first time since Week 1. Nacua looked like he hadn't missed a beat. He caught seven of nine targets for 106 yards and added two carries. With Nacua and fellow Rams wideout Cooper Kupp back in the mix, fantasy managers should view them as they had at the beginning of the season. That means both are firmly in the mix to be weekly WR1s more often than not.
|
33.
Rhamondre Stevenson
RB - NE (at TEN)
Stevenson is the RB23 in fantasy points per game, ranking 17th in snap share, 18th in weighted opportunities, and tenth in red zone touches. He has averaged 17.5 touches and 69 total yards. He was back to a workhorse-level workload last week with an 81% snap share. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 13th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 12th in yards after contact per attempt. This will be another tough matchup for Stevenson this week. Tennessee has given up the ninth-lowest missed tackle rate, the fourth-lowest yards after contact per attempt, the fifth-lowest yards per carry to gap runs, and the ninth-lowest success rate to gap runs (Stevenson 58.7% gap).
|
34.
Nick Chubb
RB - CLE (vs . LAC)
Last week, Chubb saw a big uptick in his workload with 59% of the snaps, 16 carries, and 52 rushing yards. He played 74% of the snaps on rushing plays, saw a 54% snapshare on passing downs, and handled 57% of the red zone snaps. His efficiency numbers still didn't look great, but they also trended up with a 6.3% explosive run rate, a 13% missed tackle rate, and 2.25 yards after contact per attempt. I also have to mention that Baltimore has been a top-five run defense, so it's not like Chubb posted these numbers in a wonderful matchup. The Bolts are a slightly above-average matchup for Chubb this week. They have allowed the 11th-highest yards after contact per attempt, the 12th-highest yards per carry-to-zone runs, and the 13th-highest rushing success rate to zone runs (Chubb 51.9% zone).
|
35.
Cooper Kupp
WR - LAR (at SEA)
Cooper Kupp returned to action last week after being out since Week 2 with an ankle injury. Kupp caught a touchdown as part of a five-catch, 51-yard performance. However, he was upstaged by Puka Nacua to a degree. With their offense now looking whole again, the Rams can keep Kupp, Nacua, and running back Kyren Williams among the elite fantasy options at their respective positions. That means Kupp and Nacua are likely top-15 or so weekly options in all formats, especially those that incorporate scoring for receptions. That should remain the case this week versus a Seattle Seahawks defense that performs more poorly in zone coverage. Both recently returned Rams receivers should be able to find holes in Seattle's defense on Sunday.
|
36.
Garrett Wilson
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
Garrett Wilson is shaping up to be this season's "Volume is King in Fantasy Football" flagbearer. Wilson enters Week 9 as the overall WR9 in total points despite finishing inside the top 18 just twice in eight games. Wilson has remained the top target of Aaron Rodgers even after the acquisition of Davante Adams. Time will tell if that holds over the next two months. For now, however, Wilson should at least continue to post starter-worthy numbers in most weeks. This week's matchup versus the Houston Texans has been difficult on wide receivers, however. I would lower expectations for Garrett Wilson a bit this week.
|
37.
Chris Olave
WR - NO (at CAR)
In his first game back without Rashid Shaheed in the lineup, Olave was an absolute target hog with a 31% target share, a 57.9% air-yard share, 2.43 YPRR, and a 40.6% first read share. Olave should flirt with these amazing numbers weekly with Shaheed out. Among 98 qualifying wide receivers, Olave is 23rd in separation and 30th in route win rate. He should destroy the Carolina secondary team this week, which has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game and the fourth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
38.
Alexander Mattison
RB - LV (at CIN)
Since Week 5, Mattison has been the workhorse for Las Vegas, playing at least 57% of the snaps weekly, averaging 20.3 touches and 73.3 total yards. During this stretch he has been the RB29 in fantasy points per game. Mattison remains a volume bet only weekly because we're not getting efficiency here. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 34th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 38th in yards after contact per attempt. This is a great matchup on the ground for Mattison this week, where his volume could carry him a bit further. Cincy has allowed the ninth-most rushing yards per game, the third-highest zone success rate (Mattison 62.7% zone), and the highest rushing success rate. We've seen Mattison pile up the volume and finish with a nice day (RB19 vs. LAR), and it easily could happen again this week.
|
39.
Terry McLaurin
WR - WAS (at NYG)
Terry McLaurin has methodically moved his way up the ladder among fantasy wide receivers following a slow start to the season. McLaurin has finished no worse than WR27 in his last six games and has been a top-20 fantasy wideout in five of those six outings. This week McLaurin gets a New York Giants defense which has performed at average levels across the board. New York did limit McLaurin to 22 receiving yards in Week 2. But that was before the longtime Commanders wide receiver solidified his connection with standout rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. I would be willing to bet that McLaurin has a much better game against the Giants this time around.
|
40.
DeVonta Smith
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
41.
Jayden Reed
WR - GB (vs . DET)
Reed has been quiet in recent weeks. He hasn't had more than 55 receiving yards in any game since Week 5. That could change this week. Reed is the WR18 in fantasy points per game. He has seven deep targets but only two red zone targets over his last four games. Reed has a 17.1% target share, 2.68 YPRR, and a 21.1% first-read share. I expect the Lions to utilize single-high heavily this week against Green Bay. In their two meetings last year, they utilized it with 59.9% of their defense snaps. This season overall, they have utilized single high with 55.6% of their defensive snaps. They had a brief dalliance with two high in Weeks 3-5, but they have utilized single high on at least 60.8% of their snaps in their four other games this season. Against single high, Reed has ranked third on the team in TPRR (20%) with 2.65 YPRR (second-best) and an 18.4% first-read share (second-best). Detroit has been victimized by slot receivers all year, allowing the most fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to the position.
|
42.
DJ Moore
WR - CHI (at ARI)
Moore is the WR30 in fantasy points per game, ranking 13th in deep targets and seventh in red zone targets among wide receivers. He has seen a 22.9% target share, a 30.3% air-yard share, and a 27.7% first-read share while producing 48.7 receiving yards per game and 1.44 YPRR. In Week 8, it was very interesting that he was third on the team in target share (16.7%) and was second in first-read share (23.1%). We'll see if he reclaims his top spot in the pecking order in Week 9 or if this is the beginning of a trend. Arizona has been giving to perimeter wide receivers, allowing the fifth-highest PPR points per target and the fourth-highest passer rating when targeted.
|
43.
Tank Bigsby
RB - JAC (at PHI)
Bigsby has operated as the team's workhorse over the last two weeks with at least 66% of the snaps while averaging 23 touches and 102 total yards. Bigsby could retain this role even if Etienne returns this week. While his snap share could drop to nearly 50% if Etienne is back, I do think Bigsby holds onto the lion's share of the early down work. Bigsby ranks fifth in explosive run rate, 16th in missed tackles forced per attempt, and first in yards after contact per attempt. Bigsby will need every ounce of efficiency this week against a tough Eagles run defense. Philly has allowed the seventh-lowest missed tackle rate, the eighth-lowest yards after contact per attempt, and the 11th-lowest gap success rate (Bigsby 50.4% gap).
|
44.
Davante Adams
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
After two games, Adams hasn't been the game-changing acquisition that the Jets thought they were making. He has averaged 42 receiving yards and 7.7 fantasy points per game. Adams has drawn a 17.9% target share, a 19.7% air-yard share, and a 22.5% first-read share with 1.31 YPRR. He has only one red-zone target and zero end-zone looks. Adams will look to bounce back in a middle-of-the-road matchup with Houston. The Texans are 16th in fantasy points per game and 17th in receiving yards per game allowed to perimeter wide receivers.
|
45.
Marvin Harrison Jr.
WR - ARI (vs . CHI)
Harrison Jr. popped up with a big game in Week 8, pulling up his season-long ranking to WR31 in fantasy points per game. That game was encouraging, as is his ranking of 13th in deep targets among wide receivers, but Harrison Jr. still only has four red zone targets this season. He hasn't seen a look inside the 20-yard line from Kyler Murray since Week 4. I've discussed his coverage splits weekly, so people shouldn't be surprised with this information. It could be another big week for Harrison Jr. against a Bears' secondary that has the fifth-highest rate of single high (59.8%). Against single high, Harrison Jr. has had a 25.5% target share, a 40.3% air-yard share, 2.92 YPRR, and a 28.9% first-read share. Chicago started the year hot but has since regressed into a middle-of-the-road matchup for perimeter wide receivers, ranking 16th in receiving yards per game and 19th in fantasy points per game allowed. The Bears have also recently had issues defending the deep ball. Since Week 4, they have allowed the 13th-highest adjusted completion rate, the 12th-highest passer rating, and the 11th-most passing yards per game to deep passing. Harrison leads the team in deep targets.
|
46.
Rico Dowdle
RB - DAL (at ATL)
Dowdle was a surprise inactive last week as he fell ill quickly with a 102 fever. He opened this week with a full practice, so I expect him to resume his role as leader of this backfield after a week where Ezekiel Elliott and Dalvin Cook both looked washed. In his two games played prior to Detroit throttling Dallas, Dowdle played 45-50% of the snaps, averaging 17 touches and 87.5 total yards. He was the RB22 and the RB3 in weekly scoring. He hasn't managed an explosive run this season while only having a 7% missed tackle rate and 2.25 yards after contact per attempt. Those numbers don't inspire confidence, but there's no back on this depth chart that should be challenging him for the team lead in work. Atlanta has been giving to backs, allowing the 12th-most rushing yards per game, the sixth-highest missed tackle rate, and the 14th-highest explosive run rate.
|
47.
Tank Dell
WR - HOU (at NYJ)
In the three games Dell has played without Nico Collins, he has finished as a top 30 wide receiver in weekly scoring twice (WR16, WR29). Since Week 6, he has had an 18.9% target share, a 26.3% air-yard share, 1.10 YPRR, and a 28% first-read share. The explosive plays just haven't been there for Dell so far. Since Week 7, the Jets have ranked seventh in single-high rate (60.5%). Over the last three games, against single high, Dell has seen his numbers increase with a 22.6% target share, 1.56 YPRR, and a 31.3% first-read share. This will help Dell in a tough matchup this week. The Jets have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game and the seventh-fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
48.
Darnell Mooney
WR - ATL (vs . DAL)
Mooney has turned out to be one of the best late-round picks you could have made in drafts this offseason. He is the WR21 in fantasy points per game with five top 36 fantasy scoring weeks among wide receivers (WR18, WR10, WR27, WR3, WR32). He has seen four red zone targets over the last four games and overall ranks tenth in deep targets among wide receivers. Mooney has a 20.5% target share, a 35.5% air-yard share, 1.92 YPRR, and a 27.2% first-read share. Since Week 2, Dallas has had the fourth-highest single-high rate in the NFL (61.4%). Against single high, Mooney has seen his target share fall to 16.9% with 0.95 YPRR and a 22.3% first-read share. While I don't project a huge day for Mooney this week, it only takes one converted deep target for him to prove me wrong, and the Dallas secondary has bled out production to wide receivers. Dallas has allowed the 14th-highest fantasy points per game and the ninth-highest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
49.
Zay Flowers
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
Flowers is the WR26 in fantasy points per game, ranking 20th in deep targets among wide receivers. He has not seen a red zone target since Week 2, so his chances of scoring a touchdown weekly are slim. We'll see how much he is impacted by the addition of Diontae Johnson moving forward, but I'm more worried about him receiving shadow coverage from Patrick Surtain this week. Surtain hasn't shadowed since Week 4, but that doesn't mean he won't this week, especially considering how consolidated the Ravens target tree is. Surtain followed D.K. Metcalf, Mike Evans, George Pickens, and Garrett Wilson on 60.4%-95.8% of their routes. None of them surpassed 30 receiving yards in his primary coverage. Flowers has had a 25.3% target share, a 30.1% air-yard share, 2.21 YPRR, and a 30.4% first-read share. These market shares will be dented moving forward once Johnson is up to speed, but again, the bigger worry for his Week 9 outlook is Surtain. Denver has allowed the tenth-lowest fantasy points per game and the sixth-fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
50.
Rachaad White
RB - TB (at KC)
Over the last two weeks, White has been awesome, primarily splitting work with Bucky Irving. He has averaged 13.5 touches and 89 total yards with weekly finishes as the RB2 and RB17. Among 43 qualifying backs, White ranks 18th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 11th in yards after contact per attempt. Unfortunately, the fantasy points train gets derailed this week for White against a tough Kansas City defense. The Chiefs have allowed the lowest explosive run rate, the second-lowest rushing yards per game, and the sixth-lowest missed tackle rate. They have also held backs to the 11th-lowest receiving yards per game, so White likely can't use the passing game usage to save him in Week 9.
|
51.
Josh Downs
WR - IND (at MIN)
Downs has been playing out of his mind this season as the WR20 in fantasy points per game while seeing seven red zone targets in his six games played. He's been a top 20 wide receiver in weekly scoring in four of six games. In Flacco's two starts, Downs has had a 25.3% target share, 2.14 YPRR, and a 31.7% first-read share. All of these metrics are elite. Minnesota has been gashed by slot receivers this season and will be again in Week 9 by Downs. The Vikings have allowed the third-highest fantasy points per game and the sixth-highest receiving yards per game to the position.
|
52.
Travis Kelce
TE - KC (vs . TB)
Travis Kelce finally caught his first touchdown pass of the 2024 season last week. What is more encouraging is that it was the third game in his last four in which Kelce had at least seven receptions and at least 70 receiving yards. That volume should keep Kelce in the mix for overall TE1 honors again this week. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been decimated by tight ends in recent weeks. They have allowed six different tight ends to accumulate more than 40 yards in their last five games. Tampa Bay has also given up multi-touchdown performances to opposing tight ends in each of their last two games. Travis Kelce is set up for another huge game in Week 9 and will want to show out in front of big brother Jason on Monday night.
|
53.
Bucky Irving
RB - TB (at KC)
Over the last two weeks, Irving has been the RB16 and RB18 in weekly scoring, averaging 14 touches and 80.5 total yards. He has played 35-42% of the snaps. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks second in explosive run rate, fourth in missed tackles forced per attempt, and seventh in yards after contact per attempt. This is a good week to consider flexing another player over Irving. The Chiefs have allowed the lowest explosive run rate, the second-lowest rushing yards per game, and the sixth-lowest missed tackle rate. They have also held backs to the 11th-lowest receiving yards per game, so Irving likely can't use the passing game usage to save him in Week 9.
|
54.
Calvin Ridley
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
Ridley is the WR49 in fantasy points per game, ranking seventh in deep targets. After this blowup game last week, he is the WR49 in fantasy points per game. That was only his second game of the season with more than 55 receiving yards. Ridley has commanded a 22.3% target share, a 47% air-yard share, and a 28.3% first-read share with 1.64 YPRR. Ridley is likely to see shadow coverage from Christian Gonzalez this week. Gonzalez has followed Ja'Marr Chase, Garrett Wilson, Davante Adams, D.K. Metcalf, and Tyreek Hill on 77.8-90% of their routes. Only Metcalf surpassed 60 receiving yards in his primary coverage, and only Wilson and Metcalf got in the end zone. Fade Ridley this week and sit him.
|
55.
Amari Cooper
WR - BUF (vs . MIA)
In Week 8, Cooper saw his route share increase to 62.2%, but the production didn't follow, with only a 5.9% target share and a 9.5% first-read share. It's obvious Cooper is still working his way into this offense. That makes his weekly outlook and role volatile until we get that "ok, now he's cooking" game, which is eventually coming. Over the last two weeks, Cooper has had a 10.4% target share, 1.97 YPRR, and a 15.2% first-read share. This makes Cooper a volatile WR3/flex moving forward until he is fully up to speed with Josh Allen and the playbook. Miami has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers. Cooper has been listed as questionable this week (wrist) after limited practices all week.
|
56.
Brock Bowers
TE - LV (at CIN)
It felt like Brock Bowers was the only elite tight end not to bust out on National Tight Ends Day this past Sunday. Bowers was not awful by any stretch. He caught all five of his targets for 58 yards. But he failed to score a touchdown, which has been the rookie's Achilles' Heel early in his career. Bowers will hope to turn that around against a Cincinnati defense that has given up four touchdowns to tight ends on the year. Only two NFL teams have allowed more. Even if Bowers does not score, he will be an elite fantasy option in this matchup.
|
57.
Raheem Mostert
RB - MIA (at BUF)
Last week, Mostert saved his fantasy day with two rushing touchdowns, but otherwise, it was a meh-level boxscore. Mostert played 46% of the snaps with ten touches and 30 total yards. He only played 45% of the passing down snaps, but he had a 67% snap rate in the red zone. It looks like age has finally caught up with Mostert this year. Among 69 qualifying backs, he ranks 64th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 67th in yards after contact per attempt. He's a touchdown-dependent flex only. Buffalo has allowed the 11th-highest explosive run rate, the fifth-highest yards before contact per attempt, and the seventh-highest yards per carry to gap runs (Mostert 51.1% gap).
|
58.
Jaylen Waddle
WR - MIA (at BUF)
In Waddle's two full games with Tagovailoa under center, Waddle has only seen a 14.7% target share, a 29% air-yard share, and a 19.3% first-read share despite producing 0.130 FD/RR and 2.85 YPRR. Waddle remains a highly efficient player, but the Miami passing attack still flows heavily through Tyreek Hill. In those two games, Waddle hasn't seen a red zone target. Without volume to feed his talent, Waddle remains a WR3 with a wide range of weekly outcomes. Buffalo has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points per game and the fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
59.
Xavier Worthy
WR - KC (vs . TB)
Worthy has been a hollow source of volume since Rashee Rice went down. Last week, it was much the same. He had a 64.3% route share, a 21.1% target share, a 29.5% air-yard share, and a 33.3% first-read share, with only 37 receiving yards to show for it. Maybe this is the week he finally converts the strong usage into fantasy points. Time is running out because once Hopkins is fully integrated into this offense, I think he will take the WR1 crown and compete weekly with Travis Kelce for the team lead in targets. Tampa Bay has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game and the tenth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
60.
Ladd McConkey
WR - LAC (at CLE)
McConkey has pulled his season-long status up to WR25 in fantasy points per game after last week's blow-up game. He has four weeks this season as a top-36 fantasy wide receiver. He has drawn four deep targets and six red zone looks (28th among wideouts). McConkey has a 22.2% target share with 2.14 YPRR and a 27% first-read share. Cleveland still has the highest single high rate in the NFL (69.5%). Against single high, McConkey has had a 23.7% target share with 2.85 YPRR and a whopping 29.7% first-read share. McConkey should get peppered again this week, but the matchup isn't as juicy as last week. Cleveland has allowed the 11th-fewest PPR points per target and ranks 18th in receiving yards per game allowed to slot receivers.
|
61.
Tyrone Tracy Jr.
RB - NYG (vs . WAS)
Tracy Jr. has cleared the concussion protocol and will be ready to rock this week. Last week, in the first three quarters, before leaving with the concussion, Tracy Jr. played 69% of the snaps, 84% of the rushing play snaps, 57% of the passing down snaps, and he had 67% of the red zone snaps. Overall, Tracy Jr. had 22 touches and 150 total yards in a horrible matchup. In Weeks 5-8, Tracy Jr. averaged 18.3 touches and 104.8 total yards while playing 57-84% of the snaps as the RB13 in fantasy points per game. Since Week 5, among 44 qualifying backs, Tracy Jr. ranks 11th in explosive run rate and missed tackles forced per attempt. He should slice and dice the Washington run defense this week. They have allowed the second-highest explosive run rate, the eighth-most rushing yards per game, and the fifth-highest missed tackle rate.
|
62.
Courtland Sutton
WR - DEN (at BAL)
Only Courtland Sutton had a route share above 48% last week. No other Denver pass catcher is viable in fantasy right now, as the team is running a full-blown committee with its receiving depth chart. Last week, Sutton finished with a season-high of 100 receiving yards and eight grabs as the WR21 for the week. He could follow that up with another box score stuffer in Week 9. Overall, Sutton has a 21.7% target share, a 38.6% air-yard share, 1.58 YPRR, and a 29.9% first-read share. He faces a Baltimore secondary that has allowed the most fantasy points per game and the second-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
63.
Khalil Shakir
WR - BUF (vs . MIA)
Since Amari Cooper walked in the door, Shakir has finished as the WR18 and the WR10 in weekly fantasy scoring. In that two-game snippet, he has had a 23.9% target share, 3.07 YPRR, and a 30.4% first-read share. The big issue for Shakir hasn't been volume, as it has been high-leverage usage. He has seen only one deep target and three red zone targets, but I expect that to trend up if he remains this much of a focal point of the passing attack. Miami has flip-flopped between single high and two high all year (53.8% single high). Buffalo has faced the second-highest rate of single high this season (60.9%), so I'm projecting Miami to use single high this week to defend Buffalo. In their last meeting, Miami utilized single high on 60% of their defensive snaps. Against single high, leads the team in TPRR (26%) and first-read share (21.3%) while ranking second in YPRR (2.80). Miami has been more giving to slot receivers, allowing the ninth-highest passer rating when targeted and ranking 16th in fantasy points per game.
|
64.
Javonte Williams
RB - DEN (at BAL)
Williams fell flat last week in a smash matchup with Carolina as Nix and the passing game stole the show. This week, Williams is headed toward a dreadful day against one of the league's best run defenses. Williams is the RB32 in fantasy points per game, ranking 20th in snap share, 11th in weighted opportunities, and fourth in targets among backs. He has averaged 14.7 touches and 64.9 total yards. Among 43 qualifying backs, he ranks 14th in missed tackles forced per attempt and 35th in yards after contact per attempt. Baltimore has allowed the fewest rushing yards per game, the third-lowest explosive run rate, and the fourth-lowest missed tackle rate.
|
65.
Jakobi Meyers
WR - LV (at CIN)
Since Week 4, without Davante Adams, Meyers has been seeing alpha-level volume. He has had a 27.5% target share, a 36.2% air-yard share, 1.84 YPRR, and a 32.8% first-read share. He's had four red zone targets over his last three games, with weekly finishes of WR48, WR29, and WR20. He should crush again this week against a Cincy secondary that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game and the 12th-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
66.
Trey McBride
TE - ARI (vs . CHI)
Trey McBride continues to flash efficiency that is virtually unmatched at the tight end position. The Cardinals tight end has now hauled in 75 percent of his targets and has three top-five weeks on his ledger. It will be interesting to see if he can add another in Week 9. The Chicago Bears have one of the best pass defenses in the NFL. However, they are about league average in terms of limiting tight end production. McBride is another tight end who has been elite despite a lack of touchdowns. That is one trend that fantasy managers would like to see reversed this week.
|
67.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba
WR - SEA (vs . LAR)
Smith-Njiba hasn't had the breakout season I was hoping for this year, but that doesn't mean he has been terrible as the WR37 in fantasy points per game. He has seen six deep targets and six red zone looks in his last five games. He has a 19.7% target share, 1.32 YPRR, and a 22% first-read share. Among 98 qualifying wide receivers, he is 51st in separation and 77th in route win rate. Neither of those metrics are great, and I don't think they will improve after this week's game. Los Angeles has held slot receivers to the fewest receiving yards per game and the fewest fantasy points per game.
|
68.
Cedric Tillman
WR - CLE (vs . LAC)
Tillman has been awesome over the last two weeks as the WR10 and WR3 in weekly fantasy scoring. He has drawn a 22.6% target share (tied for the team lead), a 36.8% air-yard share, and a 27.3% first-read share (team-leading) with 2.22 YPRR and 90 receiving yards per game. He also tied for the team lead with three end-zone targets over the last two games. The Chargers have the third-highest two high rate in the NFL (59.5%). Since Week 7, against two high, Tillman ranks third on the team with an 18.8% target share, first with 2.63 YPRR, and third with an 18.2% first-read share. Tillman could keep the train rolling this week with the Chargers starting two backups (Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still) with Asante Samuel Jr. (IR since Week 6) and Kristian Fulton out. On paper, the Bolts have remained strong after losing Samuel Jr. (since Week 6, they have allowed the fifth-fewest receiving yards per game and the third-lowest PPR points per target to perimeter wide receivers), but losing Fulton too this week could make it a more advantageous matchup for Tillman.
|
69.
David Njoku
TE - CLE (vs . LAC)
David Njoku is tied for third among tight ends in total fantasy points over the last two weeks as the Cleveland Browns navigate life without Deshaun Watson and Amari Cooper. Quarterback Jameis Winston has targeted his tight end often, resulting in Njoku's recent hot streak. The volume does not figure to end anytime soon given the relative lack of pass catchers that the Browns have. This may not be the best matchup for Njoku, however. The Los Angeles Chargers rank in the top 10 in passing defense and against tight ends based on DVOA. Njoku's volume should keep him afloat as a TE1 in 12-team leagues, but the touchdown upside is less than it has been in recent weeks.
|
70.
Michael Pittman Jr.
WR - IND (at MIN)
|
71.
Tyler Allgeier
RB - ATL (vs . DAL)
Allgeier's blowup in Week 6 is an obvious outlier this season. Last week was the only other game this season where he has surpassed ten touches in a game. Allgeier finished with 12 carries and 33 rushing yards while playing 35% of the snaps. Over the last two weeks, Allgeier's touchdown equity has shriveled up to nothing, with only 9.1% of the red zone snaps. Allgeier will likely see 8-10 touches this week, and you're praying that he gets into the end-zone, which makes him a low-end flex. Dallas still can't stop the run, giving up the eighth-highest explosive run rate and the second-highest yards before contact per attempt and rushing success rate.
|
72.
DeAndre Hopkins
WR - KC (vs . TB)
Last week, Hopkins only had a 33.3% route share and a 7.9% target share. His route share likely climbs this week, but like with Amari Cooper, we can't be too aggressive with our ramp-up expectations. Asking wide receivers to absorb complex playbooks quickly and ascend to full-time roles immediately is a bit much. Could Hopkins have a 70% route share this week? It's possible. It's also possible that he is sitting in the 40-50% range with a target share in the mid-teens, and you're praying that he scores a touchdown to save you from a poor fantasy lineup decision. Sit Hopkins again this week, as we need to see how his role expands in Week 9 before starting him with confidence.
|
73.
Cade Otton
TE - TB (at KC)
With Tampa Bay missing both Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, tight end Cade Otton became Baker Mayfield's go-to target. Otton posted the second multi-touchdown game of his NFL career while catching a career-high nine passes. Now Otton will face a Kansas City Chiefs team that serves up the second-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends on the year. Otton may not be the best tight end on the field Monday night, but he should be treated like a weekly fantasy starter until further notice.
|
74.
Romeo Doubs
WR - GB (vs . DET)
Doubs is the WR39 in fantasy points per game with two top 15 wide receiver finishes in his last three games. Across his last four games, he has four red zone targets. Overall, he has had an 18.7% target share, a 29.9% air-yard share, 2.01 YPRR, and a 23.4% first-read share. I expect the Lions to utilize single-high heavily this week against Green Bay. In their two meetings last year, they utilized it with 59.9% of their defense snaps. This season overall, they have utilized single high with 55.6% of their defensive snaps. They had a brief dalliance with two high in Weeks 3-5, but they have utilized single high on at least 60.8% of their snaps in their four other games this season. Against single-high, Doubs ranks second on the team with a 22% TPRR and first in YPRR (2.78) and first-read share (30.1%). He should have another productive day against a secondary that has allowed the 11th-most fantasy points per game and the seventh-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
75.
Kyle Pitts
TE - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
76.
Keon Coleman
WR - BUF (vs . MIA)
Coleman is the WR46 in fantasy points per game while ranking 18th in deep targets and 20th in red zone looks among wide receivers. Since Amari Cooper's arrival, he has had a 20.9% target share, a 34.9% air-yard share, 3.68 YPRR, and a 21.7% first-read share. He has seen three end zone targets over the last two games. Miami has flip-flopped between single high and two high all year (53.8% single high). Buffalo has faced the second-highest rate of single high this season (60.9%), so I'm projecting Miami to use single high this week to defend Buffalo. In their last meeting, Miami utilized single high on 60% of their defensive snaps. Against single high, Coleman has a 21% TPRR, 2.97 YPRR, and a 20.2% first-read share (second-best). Miami has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
77.
Brian Thomas Jr.
WR - JAC (at PHI)
Thomas Jr. is the WR13 in fantasy points per game, ranking 15th in deep targets among wide receivers. He has four red zone targets across his last three games. Thomas Jr. has a 19.4% target share, a 28.1% air-yard share, 2.81 YPRR, and a 23.3.% first-read share. Since Week 3, Philly has transitioned to a two-high heavy secondary with the sixth-highest rate (54%). Against two high, Thomas Jr. has seen his target share decline to 15.2% with 2.15 YPRR and a 19.2% first-read share. The team will likely have to bump up his usage this week with Kirk gone, but the Jags passing attack will flow through Evan Engram this week. Philly has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game to perimeter wide receivers. Thomas Jr. has been listed as questionable (chest). Doug Pederson has said that even if Thomas Jr. plays, he will be less than 100%. I lean that the team will hold him out, but it's likely 50/50.
|
78.
Tyler Lockett
WR - SEA (vs . LAR)
Lockett looks like a wide receiver on the back nine of his NFL career as the WR51 in fantasy points per game. He has earned a 13.9% target share with 1.55 YPRR and an 18% first-read share. Among 98 qualifying wide receivers, he ranks 55th in separation and 67th in route win rate. However, this week's matchup could help boost his season-long numbers. The Rams have the eighth-highest single-high rate (58.2%). Against single-high, Lockett has seen his YPRR climb to 1.75. Los Angeles' struggles have been mainly against perimeter wide receivers, as they have allowed the fifth-highest fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to the position. Lockett gets a boost in the flex ranks this week.
|
79.
Jerry Jeudy
WR - CLE (vs . LAC)
Since Week 7, Jeudy has ranked fourth on the team with a 14% target share while posing 1.07 YPRR and an 18.2% first-read share (fourth). He has been hopped in the target pecking order by Cedric Tillman and it looks like Elijah Moore. The Chargers have the third-highest two high rate in the NFL (59.5%). Since Week 7, against two high, Jeudy has had a 9.4% target share, 0.60 YPRR, and a 13.6% first-read share. Hold him on your bench if you have the space, but I have no issues with dropping him to the waiver wire if you have to.
|
80.
Jordan Addison
WR - MIN (vs . IND)
Addison's touchdown luck from last season hasn't been replicated in 2024, and we've seen his fantasy stock plummet because of it. Addison is the WR44 in fantasy points per game with three deep targets this season and only one red zone look. Addison has a 16.9% target share, a 31% air-yard share, 1.83 YPRR, and a 23% first-read share. Indy has utilized single high with 57.1% of their defensive snaps. Against single high, Addison has seen his usage increase while his efficiency has taken a hit with an 18.4% target share and 26% first-read share, but he has had 1.65 YPRR against the coverage. Addison retains his WR3/4 or middling flex appeal this week against a Colts secondary that ranks 18th in fantasy points per game and eighth in receiving yards per game allowed to perimeter wide receivers.
|
81.
Jake Ferguson
TE - DAL (at ATL)
Ferguson continues to move through the season as the uninspiring TE12 in fantasy points per game. He has only two red zone targets since Week 3 and hasn't scored a touchdown this season. He is the TE5 in expected fantasy points per game, so I guess we should start expecting a regression to the mean game incoming. That could be this week. Since Week 4, Atlanta has utilized two high with 58.3% of their defensive snaps. Against two high, Ferguson leads the team with a 23.2% target share, 2.04 YPRR, and a 26.9% first-read share. Atlanta is 15th in receiving yards per game allowed to tight ends, but they have also given up the tenth-most fantasy points per game to the position.
|
82.
Keenan Allen
WR - CHI (at ARI)
Allen hasn't produced like many had hoped this year. He is the WR54 in fantasy points per game, with only one game inside the top 24 wideouts in weekly fantasy scoring. He has seen better usage of late, with three red zone targets in his last three games. Overall, he has a 20.1% target share, 1.26 YPRR, and a 25.9% first-read share. We'll see if he can take advantage of a solid matchup in the slot this week, but it's tough to trust him as anything more than a dice roll WR3/flex. Arizona has allowed the eighth-highest PPR points per target and the 13th-highest passer rating when targeted to slot receivers.
|
83.
Evan Engram
TE - JAC (at PHI)
Last year without Christian Kirk, Engram went nuts as the TE3 in fantasy points per game, drawing a 25.5% target share and 25.6% first-read share with 1.79 YPRR. Engram has more target competition this season, but his usage is about to spike massively starting in Week 9. Since Week 3, Philly has transitioned to a two-high heavy secondary with the sixth-highest rate (54%). Against two high, Engram has led the way with a 22.6% target share, 1.70 YPRR, and a 23.8% first-read share. Engram should be the first person Lawrence is looking for this week when he drops back to pass. Philly has allowed the fourth-fewest receiving yards and the fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends, but it might not matter this week with how much volume Engram should see in Week 9.
|
84.
Travis Etienne Jr.
RB - JAC (at PHI)
Etienne practiced on a limited basis this week (hamstring). He has been ruled a game-time decision. I lean that he will not play this week, but even if he's active, he's a must-sit player. Etienne will likely only play a complementary role this week in a terrible matchup. Philly has allowed the seventh-lowest missed tackle rate, the eighth-lowest yards after contact per attempt, and the 11th-lowest gap success rate (Etienne 66.1% gap).
|
85.
Austin Ekeler
RB - WAS (at NYG)
In his last two games played, Ekeler has averaged 49% of the snaps played with 7.5 touches and 40 total yards. He is a strong flex play this week in a great matchup. His rushing metrics haven't been amazing, with only a 10% missed tackle rate and 2.0 yards after contact per attempt, but he has made up for it some with his 7.7% explosive run rate. Ekeler could flirt with ten touches in this matchup, and if he gets into the end zone (13 red zone touches this season), he could flirt with RB2 production this week. New York has allowed the highest missed tackle rate, the sixth-most rushing yards per game, and the third-highest explosive run rate.
|
86.
Christian Watson
WR - GB (vs . DET)
This isn't the week to consider flexing Watson. He has been much better against two high this season. I expect the Lions to utilize single-high heavily this week against Green Bay. In their two meetings last year, they utilized it with 59.9% of their defense snaps. This season overall, they have utilized single high with 55.6% of their defensive snaps. They had a brief dalliance with two high in Weeks 3-5, but they have utilized single high on at least 60.8% of their snaps in their four other games this season. Against single-high, Watons ranks fourth on the team with an 18% TPRR, and he has had only 1.43 YPRR and a 13.7% first-read share.
|
87.
Sam LaPorta
TE - DET (at GB)
Last week without Jameson Williams, we saw Sam LaPorta get a usage boost with a 69.6% route share, a 31.6% target share, 3.00 YPRR, and a 33.3% first-read share. He was the TE8 for the week. Overall, he has a 10.7% target share, 1.85 YPRR, and an 11% first-read share. We'll see if the usage from last week carries over into Week 9, but the matchup is right for it, too. Green Bay has allowed the fifth-most receiving yards and the 12th-highest fantasy points per game to tight ends.
|
88.
Rome Odunze
WR - CHI (at ARI)
Odunze has had a rough rookie season as the WR65 in fantasy points per game. He has only one game with a WR2 or better weekly finish this week. His usage has been better recently in the red zone, with six targets inside the 20-yard line in the last six games. Did the Bears flip the script after the bye and install Odunze as the new WR1? It's a one-game sample, so I won't get ahead of myself and say that, but Odunze's Week 8 usage was interesting despite the snooze-worthy box score (three receptions and 41 receiving yards). Odunze led the team in Week 8 in target share (25%), air-yard share (41.1%), YPRR (1.71), and first-read share (30.8%). We'll see if that was a blip on the radar or a snippet of things to come. Odunze has just as good of a chance as Moore and Allen to pop off in Week 9. Arizona has been giving to perimeter wide receivers, allowing the fifth-highest PPR points per target and the fourth-highest passer rating when targeted.
|
89.
Devin Singletary
RB - NYG (vs . WAS)
With Tyrone Tracy Jr. clearing the concussion protocol, Singletary falls right back into a backup role this week. Last week, in the first three-quarters of the game, Singletary only played 26% of the snaps with three touches and 19 total yards. Don't drop him because he has become a high-end handcuff, but he shouldn't come anywhere close to your starting lineup this week.
|
90.
Xavier Legette
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
In the six games this season, Legette has played at least 59% of the snaps; he has had a 16.3% target share, a 28.8% air-yard share, 1.38 YPRR, and a 20.1% first-read share. He has six red-zone targets and five end-zone targets in those games. Legette has disappointed on a per-route basis. Among 98 qualifying receivers, he ranks 79th in separation and 78th in route win rate. Last week, with Bryce Young under center, Legette had an 18.4% target share, a 38.7% air-yard share, and an 18.5% first-read share. Since Week 3, New Orleans has had the fifth-highest two-high rate (54.2%). In that six-game sample, against two high, Legette has had a 21% TPRR and only 0.79 YPRR. New Orleans has allowed the sixth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers. They also rank 16th in fantasy points per game allowed to the position. Carolina's wide receivers get a boost this week with Marshon Lattimore and Kool-Aid McKinstry out. The Saints will probably be fielding a starting secondary of Alontae Taylor, Ugo Amadi, and either Rico Payton or Shemar Jean Charles. Legette is a volume-based flex play.
|
91.
Jalen Tolbert
WR - DAL (at ATL)
Tolbert is the WR42 in fantasy points per game, but he hasn't managed more than 8.3 fantasy points in three of his last four games. His usage has dried up some, as he also hasn't seen a red zone target since Week 5. The three red zone targets he saw against Pittsburgh were his only red zone targets in his last four games. Overall, he has a 13% target share, 1.37 YPRR, and a 15% first-read share. These aren't exactly eye-popping numbers. Since Week 4, Atlanta has utilized two high with 58.3% of their defensive snaps. Against two high, Tolbert has seen his usage increase with a 17.2% target share, 1.74 YPRR, and a 24.7% first-read share. This looks like a good spot to flex Tolbert, as Atlanta has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per game and the 14th-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
92.
Jalen McMillan
WR - TB (at KC)
Last week, McMillan had an 82.4% route share, a 14% target share, a 30.4% air-yard share, 0.83 YPRR, and a 21.2% first-read share. He didn't do much with the volume, with only 35 receiving yards. He didn't take over the "Chris Godwin role" as many hoped, as he played 71.4% of his snaps from the perimeter. This week, everyone should be sitting McMillan in a dreadful matchup with the Chiefs. Kansas City has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game and the second-fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
93.
Dalton Kincaid
TE - BUF (vs . MIA)
Kincaid is the TE16 in fantasy points per game, but he has finished as a TE1 in three of his last six games. He would have four TE1 notches on the belt, but last week, the tight end position went nuts as Kincaid posted a healthy 13.1 PPR points (TE14). In any other week, that is a strong TE1 game. Kincaid does have issues in this passing attack, though, with only one red zone target in his last five games. Kincaid has a 19% target share, 1.84 YPRR, and a 20.7% first-read share. Temper expectations for Kincaid this week against a defense that has held tight ends to the 12th-fewest receiving yards per game and the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game.
|
94.
Mark Andrews
TE - BAL (vs . DEN)
Last week, Andrews saw his highest route share since Week 2 (67.4%). Since Week 5, he has been the TE7 in fantasy points per game with a 14.1% target share, 2.48 YPRR, three end zone targets, and a 15.7% first-read share. Andrews could own more of the tight end route share in this offense if they transition to more 11 personnel with only one tight end on the field at a time. He faces a tough matchup this week against a Denver defense that has allowed the 11th-fewest receiving yards per game and the fourth-lowest yards per reception to tight ends. Denver has allowed the 12th-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends.
|
95.
Elijah Moore
WR - CLE (vs . LAC)
Moore has flashed a pulse over the last two weeks with an 18.3% target share, 1.85 YPRR, and an 18.2% first-read share. He has a red zone target in each of his last four games. The Chargers have the third-highest two high rate in the NFL (59.5%). Since Week 7, against two high, Moore has ranked second on the team with a 25% target share, had 2.09 YPRR, and had a 22.7% first-read share. He's a viable flex this week in deeper leagues in a tough matchup. The Chargers have allowed the eighth-lowest PPR points per target and the 12th-fewest receiving yards per game to slot receivers.
|
96.
Tucker Kraft
TE - GB (vs . DET)
Kraft is the TE7 in fantasy points per game, ranking fifth among tight ends in red zone targets. He has commanded a 12.5% target share and 10.3% first-read share with 1.90 YPRR. Kraft remains a TE1 this week, but don't expect smash numbers against a Detroit defense that has allowed the second-fewest receiving yards and fantasy points per game to the position.
|
97.
Wan'Dale Robinson
WR - NYG (vs . WAS)
Robinson is the WR34 in fantasy points per game, ranking fourth among wideouts in red zone targets. He has soaked up a 23.3.% target share and a 26.4% first-read share with 1.29 YPRR. Washington has tightened up as a pass defense since Week 6, but Robinson could still rack up yardage in this game. Since Week 6, Washington has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to slot receivers while still giving up the 11th-highest receiving yards per game. Robinson remains a decent flex, especially in PPR formats.
|
98.
Taysom Hill
QB,TE - NO (at CAR)
Hill is a great tight-end dice roll this week. Last week, he returned to the lineup, playing 40% of the snaps with four rushing attempts and 20 rushing yards. He even attempted a pass and completed it for three yards. Hill also had a 38.8% route share, a 9.5% target share, and 21 receiving yards. His full skillset could be on display again this week. Carolina has allowed the most rushing yards in the NFL while also giving up the most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
|
99.
Dalton Schultz
TE - HOU (at NYJ)
Schultz is the TE28 in fantasy points per game, drawing a 13.2% target share with 1.00 YPRR and a 12.8% first-read share. He has only two red zone targets this season and hasn't seen one since Week 4. The Jets have been tough against tight ends, allowing the tenth-fewest receiving yards per game and the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game. Sit Schultz.
|
100.
Rashod Bateman
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
Bateman has been Baltimore's deep ball specialist this season. The math has been simple. If a team struggles versus deep passing, then he is in play as a flex. Well, Denver has been good versus deep passing, allowing the sixth-fewest deep passing yards per game with the sixth-lowest CPOE. Also, now with Diontae Johnson in town, Batemen's snap share weekly could be an issue if the team doesn't transition into a more 11 personnel heavy offense. If they still deploy multiple tight-end sets aplenty, Bateman's snaps will be hurt, and that could begin this week to an extent. Sit Bateman.
|
101.
DeMario Douglas
WR - NE (at TEN)
Douglas' usage has been all over the map this season. Just when you think it's safe to start him, then BOOM... nothing burger. It has been frustrating because he is a talented player that has crushed when he has been leaned on this season. Overall, he has a 15.2% target share, 1.43 YPRR, and a 19.6% first-read share. Even if he does get volume this week, his chances of scoring a touchdown are slim. Douglas has only one red zone target this season (none since Week 5). Douglas is an easy sit this week against a Tennessee secondary that has held slot receivers to 18th in fantasy points per game and the ninth-fewest receiving yards per game.
|
102.
Michael Wilson
WR - ARI (vs . CHI)
Wilson is the WR55 in fantasy points per game with three weeks as a WR3 in weekly fantasy scoring this season. He has three red zone targets in his last four games. Wilson is second on the team in deep targets (six), which could come in handy this week. Since Week 4, Chicago has allowed the 13th-highest adjusted completion rate, the 12th-highest passer rating, and the 11th-most passing yards per game to deep passing. While his role in the deep passing game should help him, the coverage shell matchup this week doesn't do him any favors. Chicago has the fifth-highest rate of single high (59.8%). Against single high, Wilson has had a 17% target share, a 23.1% air-yard share, only 1.35 YPRR, and a 19.7% first-read share. Against single-high teams, the Cardinals' passing attack has heavily flowed through Harrison Jr. and McBride. This week, you're really hoping for him to convert a deep target against this secondary to pay off as a flex. The Bears are 16th in receiving yards per game and 19th in fantasy points per game against perimeter wide receivers.
|
103.
Zach Ertz
TE - WAS (at NYG)
Ertz continues to surprise this season as the TE13 in fantasy points per game. He is fourth among tight ends in red zone targets. He has a 19% target share, 1.69 YPRR, and an 18.5% first-read share. Among 57 qualifying tight ends, he ranks third in separation and second in route win rate. Sit Ertz this week against a Giants team that has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game and the sixth-fewest receiving yards per game to tight ends.
|
104.
Jalen Coker
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
Since assuming a starting role in Week 5, Coker has had a 10.9% target share, 1.94 YPRR, and a 14.3% first-read share with two end zone targets. Last week, with Bryce Young starting, Coker had a 15.8% target share, a 34.1% air-yard share, 2.60 YPRR, and a team-leading 22.2% first-read share. Coker will be competing with Legette again this week for the team lead in targets. Since Week 3, New Orleans has had the fifth-highest two-high rate (54.2%). Since Week 5, against two high, Coker has had 1.88 YPRR and a 14.3% first-read share. His usage hasn't really changed versus two high, and he's remained efficient. The matchup this week is glorious for Coker. The Saints have been unable to stop slot receivers giving up the eighth-most fantasy points per game and the third-most receiving yards per game. Those numbers could honestly be underselling the matchup, as the Saints' secondary is in shambles. Nickel corner Alontae Taylor will likely move outside this week with Marshon Lattimore and Kool-Aid McKinstry out. New Orleans could be fielding a starting secondary of Alontae Taylor, Ugo Amadi, and either Rico Payton or Shemar Jean Charles. Amadi likely will take over inside at nickel (career: 78.8% catch rate and 100.9 passer rating).
|
105.
Zach Charbonnet
RB - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
106.
Cole Kmet
TE - CHI (at ARI)
Kmet is coming off a down game, but he is still the TE8 in fantasy points per game, ranking fifth in deep targets and ninth in red zone targets among tight ends. He only has one red zone target in his last four games, though. Kmet has a 13.5% target share, 2.10 YPRR, and a 12.1% first-read share. This is a neutral matchup for Kmet as Arizona is 14th in receiving yards per game and 15th in fantasy points per game allowed to tight ends.
|
107.
Hunter Henry
TE - NE (at TEN)
Henry is the TE14 in fantasy points per game with three TE1 games this season. He has seen four red zone targets in his last five games. Henry has a 16.9% target share with 1.67 YPRR and a 17.7% first-read share. All of these are wonderful metrics for a tight end. The problem for Henry is this is a terrible matchup. Tennessee has allowed the third-fewest receiving yards and the eighth-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends.
|
108.
Alec Pierce
WR - IND (at MIN)
Let's keep this simple. Pierce's role in this passing attack is as the deep ball specialist. 55.2% of his target volume has come from deep targets. Minnesota ranks 15th in deep passing yards allowed while giving up the 11th-highest passer rating and ranking 14th in adjusted completion rate on throws 20 yards or further downfield. Pierce has seen more than five targets in only two games this season, so if you're flexing him, it is with the belief that he can cash in with one or two deep shots this week. The avenue exists in this matchup for him to possibly do so.
|
109.
Gabe Davis
WR - JAC (at PHI)
Davis is dealing with a shoulder injury. He practiced on a limited basis all week and has been labeled a game-time decision. I lean that he will sit, but even if he's active, he's a sit. Davis has been a droppable player for some time this season. He's WR82 in fantasy points per game, with only one week this season with double-digit fantasy points. Davis has surpassed three receptions and 50 receiving yards only once.
|
110.
Sterling Shepard
WR - TB (at KC)
Last week, Shepard played 54.3% of his snaps from the slot, which will come in handy this week. He sadly only drew an 8% target share and 6.1% first-read share with 0.51 YPRR, but that could easily change this week. The weakness in the Kansas City secondary has been with defending tight ends and the slot. They have allowed the second-most fantasy points per game and the fifth-most receiving yards per game to slot receivers this season. Shepard could explode with a healthy stat line this week and surprise people if he retains the primary slot role in Week 9.
|
111.
T.J. Hockenson
TE - MIN (vs . IND)
The Vikings have stated that Hockenson won't play on a snap count this week. It seems odd, but it's possible. Just understand that there's a risk here. I've warmed on him considerably after believing what the team is saying about his playing time upside. I don't have any issue with anyone starting Hockenson this week, depending on your options. The matchup this week dictates that he could walk away with a serviceable stat line on limited volume. Indy has allowed the ninth-most receiving yards and the seventh-most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
|
112.
Dontayvion Wicks
WR - GB (vs . DET)
|
113.
Tre Tucker
WR - LV (at CIN)
|
114.
Braelon Allen
RB - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
115.
Darius Slayton
WR - NYG (vs . WAS)
In the six games Malik Nabers has been active, Slayton has only an 11.8% target share, a 23.2% air-yard share, 1.24 YPRR, and a 9% first-read share. This isn't the matchup to consider flexing him. Since Week 6, Washington has allowed the ninth-fewest receiving yards per game and the fourth-lowest fantasy points per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
116.
Noah Brown
WR - WAS (at NYG)
In his last five games played, Brown has had a 61% route share, a 14.6% target share, a 21.5% air-yard share, 1.82 YPRR, and a 16% first-read share. In that span, he has two red zone targets. Since Week 3, the Giants have had the fourth-highest single-high rate (63.9%). Against single-high, Brown is fourth in TPRR (19%) and second in YPRR (1.81) among Commanders receiving options. Brown is a decent flex play this week, squaring off against a New York secondary that has allowed the eighth-highest fantasy points per game and the 13th-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
117.
Ray Davis
RB - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
118.
Justice Hill
RB - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
119.
Joshua Palmer
WR - LAC (at CLE)
This doesn't project as a week to look at flexing Palmer. Cleveland still has the highest single high rate in the NFL (69.5%). Against single high, Palmer is fifth on the team with a 14% TPRR, third in first-read share (14.1%), and fourth in YPRR (1.80). This has been a quiet year for Palmer after he flashed upside last year. He is droppable at this point.
|
120.
Demarcus Robinson
WR - LAR (at SEA)
Robinson flashed a nose for the end zone last week with two scores with a full-strength Rams offense. Outside of those two scores, though, his day wasn't very eventful, so I don't want people chasing touchdowns. This season, Robinson has a 12.4% target share, 1.11 YPRR, and a 14.3% first-read share. Since Week 4, Seattle has ranked 12th in single-high rate. Against single-high, Robinson has seen his YPRR increase to 1.46. It's not an overwhelming efficiency bump, but it's worth bringing up. Robinson is a deep league or desperation flex only. Since Week 4, Seattle has allowed the sixth-highest fantasy points per game and the seventh-highest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
121.
Parker Washington
WR - JAC (at PHI)
Washington steps back into the starting lineup this week after Christian Kirk's season-ending injury. Last year, in Weeks 13-18, as the Jag's starting slot, he had a 59.8% route share, an 8.2% target share, 0.80 YPRR, and a 7.9% first-read share. Nothing here screams that he is a player to be highly considered for a flex spot this week. If that isn't enough, since Philly made Cooper DeJean their starting nickel, they have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game and receiving yards per game to slot receivers.
|
122.
Isaiah Likely
TE - BAL (vs . DEN)
Likely is a sit candidate with Baltimore's multiple tight-end personnel rate up in the air. If the Ravens utilize more 11 personnel from the jump this week, the easy candidate to see a possible snap cut is Likely. Last week, his route share dipped to 48.8%. While he compensated by converting all of his targets (four, 10.5% target share) into 47 receiving yards, if his route share dips into the 30% range, it will be a coffin nail to his already meager fantasy value.
|
123.
Jonnu Smith
TE - MIA (at BUF)
Since Week 6, Smith has had a 63.9% route share, a 20.3% target share, 2.52 YPRR, and a 22.7% first-read share. Last week, while his route share stayed stable, Smith's target share dropped to 15.8%, and his first-read share decreased to 17.2%. With Tua Tagovailoa back, the wide receivers got more work in the passing attack. Sit Smith this week in a terrible matchup. Buffalo has held tight ends to the tenth-fewest fantasy points per game and the fifth-lowest yards per reception.
|
124.
Diontae Johnson
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
Johnson follows the same must-sit protocol as previously traded wide receivers this season. With a limited window of opportunity to learn the playbook and build rapport with Lamar Jackson, there's no way to start Johnson with any confidence this week, both from a snap share and target share projection. It's not like this is a wonderful matchup either, where he could still succeed on a limited workload. Denver has allowed the tenth-lowest fantasy points per game and the sixth-fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
125.
Andrei Iosivas
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
|
126.
Mike Gesicki
TE - CIN (vs . LV)
In the three games Cincy has played without Tee Higgins this season, Gesicki has operated as the team's WR2 with a 20.6% target share, a 21.9% air-yard share, 2.98 YPRR, and a 25.3% first-read share. Gesicki finished as the TE21, TE5, and TE15 in weekly fantasy scoring, averaging 11.4 fantasy points per game. The Raiders have allowed the ninth-highest PPR points per target and the eighth-highest passer rating when targeted to slot receivers (Gesicki in those three games, 62.3% slot).
|
127.
Roschon Johnson
RB - CHI (at ARI)
|
128.
Trey Palmer
WR - TB (at KC)
If you picked up Palmer off the waiver wire, I'm sorry, but he's droppable. Last week, with a 70% route share, he only managed to draw a 4% target share and an 8.1% air-yard share. He's Tampa Bay's new cardio king. Let him burn those calories on the waiver wire.
|
129.
Ray-Ray McCloud III
WR - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
130.
Kalif Raymond
WR - DET (at GB)
|
131.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
|
132.
Kimani Vidal
RB - LAC (at CLE)
|
133.
Tyler Conklin
TE - NYJ (vs . HOU)
With Davante Adams in town, Conklin has seen an 11.8% target share with 0.96 YPRR and a 12.5% first-read share. He has two end zone targets in his last two games. Conklin is a must-sit this week. Houston has kept tight ends frozen in their tracks, giving up the third-lowest yards per reception, the fewest receiving yards per game, and the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game.
|
134.
Jaleel McLaughlin
RB - DEN (at BAL)
|
135.
Miles Sanders
RB - CAR (vs . NO)
|
136.
Will Dissly
TE - LAC (at CLE)
|
137.
John Metchie III
WR - HOU (at NYJ)
Metchie has been a ghost this season. After hitting the active roster in Week 4, he played 4-36% of the snaps from Weeks 4-7, drawing only one target. Last week, he hit the field after Stefon Diggs had gone down. In the second half, he had a 45.5% route share, a 27.3% target share, 5.80 YPRR, and a 40% first-read share that tied Tank Dell for the team lead. Metchie ran 60% of his routes from the perimeter. He could rotate back and forth from the perimeter to the slot this week. It's tough to feel confident about him this week, considering he has been so low on the depth chart and wasn't pressed into action until last week when the Texans had no other options. If the Texans had a better defensive matchup this week, my writeup might be a tad more hopeful, but he's a sit this week. The Jets have held wide receivers to the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game and receiving yards.
|
138.
Troy Franklin
WR - DEN (at BAL)
|
139.
Kayshon Boutte
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
140.
Adonai Mitchell
WR - IND (at MIN)
|
141.
Ty Chandler
RB - MIN (vs . IND)
|
142.
Jalen Nailor
WR - MIN (vs . IND)
|
143.
Antonio Gibson
RB - NE (at TEN)
|
144.
Xavier Hutchinson
WR - HOU (at NYJ)
Last week, Hutchinson had a 61.5% route share, but he only managed a 2.7% target share and a 6.8% air-yard share. While the increase in playing time is nice to see, this isn't the week to consider him as a deep league flex. The Jets have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game and the seventh-fewest receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
145.
Colby Parkinson
TE - LAR (at SEA)
Parkinson also finds himself hitting the streamer radar this week. He is the TE24 in fantasy points per game, with six red zone targets in his last six games. He has a 15% target share with 1.14 YPRR and a 13% first-read share. Nothing outside of the usage inside the red zone will perk up the senses, but the matchup is glorious. Seattle has allowed the tenth-highest yards per reception to tight ends and the eighth-most fantasy points per game.
|
146.
Grant Calcaterra
TE - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
147.
Juwan Johnson
TE - NO (at CAR)
|
148.
Tyler Boyd
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
|
149.
Tim Patrick
WR - DET (at GB)
|
150.
Chig Okonkwo
TE - TEN (vs . NE)
|
151.
DJ Turner
WR - LV (at CIN)
|
152.
Julius Chestnut
RB - TEN (vs . NE)
|
153.
Ja'Tavion Sanders
TE - CAR (vs . NO)
|
154.
Emanuel Wilson
RB - GB (vs . DET)
|
155.
Blake Corum
RB - LAR (at SEA)
|
156.
Jake Bobo
WR - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
157.
Quentin Johnston
WR - LAC (at CLE)
Johnston will be back this week. I can't play him this week with D.J. Chark returning to the fold. The Chargers have utilized somewhat of a wide receiver committee at times, with receivers behind Ladd McConkey this season. Chark might not see more than 20-30% of the snaps this week, but that's enough to impact Johnston and/or Joshua Palmer's outlooks. This isn't a good enough matchup for Johnston to be willing to stomach that risk in your lineups.
|
158.
Sean Tucker
RB - TB (at KC)
|
159.
Mason Tipton
WR - NO (at CAR)
Over the last two games, Tipton has had an 86.6% route share, a 13.6% target share, 0.70 YPRR, and a 12.5% first-read share. He's a deep-league desperation flex only. Carolina has the second-highest single-high rate this season (69.2%). Against single high, Tipton has only 0.38 YPRR and an 11% TPRR. Carolina is a giving secondary to perimeter wide receivers, so maybe that helps Tipton succeed this week. Carolina has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game and the fourth-most receiving yards per game to perimeter wide receivers.
|
160.
Theo Johnson
TE - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
161.
Tutu Atwell
WR - LAR (at SEA)
|
162.
Noah Gray
TE - KC (vs . TB)
|
163.
Jaylen Wright
RB - MIA (at BUF)
|
164.
Zamir White
RB - LV (at CIN)
|
165.
Greg Dortch
WR - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
166.
Samaje Perine
RB - KC (vs . TB)
|
167.
Dare Ogunbowale
RB - HOU (at NYJ)
|
168.
Devaughn Vele
WR - DEN (at BAL)
|
169.
KaVontae Turpin
WR - DAL (at ATL)
|
170.
Robert Woods
WR - HOU (at NYJ)
|
171.
Justin Watson
WR - KC (vs . TB)
|
172.
Tyler Goodson
RB - IND (at MIN)
|
173.
D'Ernest Johnson
RB - JAC (at PHI)
|
174.
Erick All Jr.
TE - CIN (vs . LV)
|
175.
Trey Benson
RB - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
176.
Lil'Jordan Humphrey
WR - DEN (at BAL)
|
177.
Mike Williams
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
178.
D'Onta Foreman
RB - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
179.
Trey Sermon
RB - IND (at MIN)
|
180.
Dawson Knox
TE - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
181.
Foster Moreau
TE - NO (at CAR)
|
182.
Jerome Ford
RB - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
183.
Olamide Zaccheaus
WR - WAS (at NYG)
|
184.
Kenneth Gainwell
RB - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
185.
Emari Demercado
RB - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
186.
Carson Steele
RB - KC (vs . TB)
|
187.
Kendrick Bourne
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
188.
Luke McCaffrey
WR - WAS (at NYG)
|
189.
Nelson Agholor
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
190.
Eric Gray
RB - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
191.
Dalvin Cook
RB - DAL (at ATL)
|
192.
Ty Johnson
RB - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
193.
Pierre Strong Jr.
RB - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
194.
Ezekiel Elliott
RB - DAL (at ATL)
|
195.
Johnny Mundt
TE - MIN (vs . IND)
|
196.
Jonathan Mingo
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
|
197.
Mecole Hardman Jr.
WR - KC (vs . TB)
|
198.
Simi Fehoko
WR - LAC (at CLE)
|
199.
Dyami Brown
WR - WAS (at NYG)
|
200.
Jeremy McNichols
RB - WAS (at NYG)
|
201.
Audric Estime
RB - DEN (at BAL)
|
202.
David Moore
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
|
203.
DJ Chark Jr.
WR - LAC (at CLE)
|
204.
Lucas Krull
TE - DEN (at BAL)
|
205.
Jalen Brooks
WR - DAL (at ATL)
|
206.
Mack Hollins
WR - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
207.
Trayveon Williams
RB - CIN (vs . LV)
|
208.
Jahan Dotson
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
209.
Jermaine Burton
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
|
210.
Chris Brooks
RB - GB (vs . DET)
|
211.
Zack Moss
RB - CIN (vs . LV)
Moss has taken a backseat to Brown since Week 6, averaging only 8.4 touches and 31.3 total yards. He has been the team's passing down back. He isn't startable even in good matchups at this point. Hold him as a handcuff to Brown, but if you don't have the space, he's droppable.
|
212.
Marvin Mims Jr.
WR - DEN (at BAL)
|
213.
Odell Beckham Jr.
WR - MIA (at BUF)
|
214.
Allen Robinson II
WR - DET (at GB)
|
215.
Zay Jones
WR - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
216.
Ameer Abdullah
RB - LV (at CIN)
|
217.
Will Shipley
RB - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
218.
Brenton Strange
TE - JAC (at PHI)
|
219.
Adam Trautman
TE - DEN (at BAL)
|
220.
Mo Alie-Cox
TE - IND (at MIN)
|
221.
Noah Fant
TE - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
222.
Ja'Lynn Polk
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
223.
Tim Jones
WR - JAC (at PHI)
|
224.
AJ Barner
TE - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
225.
Bo Melton
WR - GB (vs . DET)
|
226.
JaMycal Hasty
RB - NE (at TEN)
|
227.
Tommy Tremble
TE - CAR (vs . NO)
|
228.
Rakim Jarrett
WR - TB (at KC)
|
229.
Cam Akers
RB - MIN (vs . IND)
|
230.
Hassan Haskins
RB - LAC (at CLE)
|
231.
Austin Hooper
TE - NE (at TEN)
|
232.
Hunter Luepke
RB - DAL (at ATL)
|
233.
Josh Whyle
TE - TEN (vs . NE)
|
234.
Joshua Kelley
RB - TEN (vs . NE)
|
235.
Hayden Hurst
TE - LAC (at CLE)
|
236.
Jonathon Brooks
RB - CAR (vs . NO)
Brooks is nearing the end of his 21-day window. It doesn't look like Brooks will be active this week.Â
|
237.
Tee Higgins
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
|
238.
K.J. Osborn
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
239.
Cade Stover
TE - HOU (at NYJ)
|
240.
Laviska Shenault Jr.
WR - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
241.
Jamaal Williams
RB - NO (at CAR)
|
242.
Jordan Whittington
WR - LAR (at SEA)
|
243.
Jordan Mims
RB - NO (at CAR)
|
244.
Brock Wright
TE - DET (at GB)
|
245.
Cedrick Wilson Jr.
WR - NO (at CAR)
|
246.
JuJu Smith-Schuster
WR - KC (vs . TB)
|
247.
Ryan Miller
WR - TB (at KC)
|
248.
Gerald Everett
TE - CHI (at ARI)
|
249.
Patrick Ricard
RB - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
250.
Harrison Bryant
TE - LV (at CIN)
|
251.
Malik Washington
WR - MIA (at BUF)
|
252.
Jordan Akins
TE - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
253.
Alec Ingold
RB - MIA (at BUF)
|
254.
Kylen Granson
TE - IND (at MIN)
|
255.
Khalil Herbert
RB - CHI (at ARI)
|
256.
Elijah Higgins
TE - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
257.
Tyler Johnson
WR - LAR (at SEA)
|
258.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling
WR - NO (at CAR)
|
259.
Ronnie Rivers
RB - LAR (at SEA)
|
260.
Charlie Kolar
TE - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
261.
Curtis Samuel
WR - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
262.
Trenton Irwin
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
|
263.
Josh Oliver
TE - MIN (vs . IND)
|
264.
Nate Adkins
TE - DEN (at BAL)
|
265.
Adam Thielen
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
|
266.
Deuce Vaughn
RB - DAL (at ATL)
|
267.
C.J. Ham
RB - MIN (vs . IND)
|
268.
Jeremy Ruckert
TE - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
269.
Craig Reynolds
RB - DET (at GB)
|
270.
Pharaoh Brown
TE - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
271.
Equanimeous St. Brown
WR - NO (at CAR)
|
272.
Michael Burton
RB - DEN (at BAL)
|
273.
Will Mallory
TE - IND (at MIN)
|
274.
Raheem Blackshear
RB - CAR (vs . NO)
|
275.
Xavier Gipson
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
276.
Tyquan Thornton
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
277.
Drew Ogletree
TE - IND (at MIN)
|
278.
Ben Sims
TE - GB (vs . DET)
|
279.
Nick Vannett
TE - TEN (vs . NE)
|
280.
Durham Smythe
TE - MIA (at BUF)
|
281.
Ben Sinnott
TE - WAS (at NYG)
|
282.
Ashton Dulin
WR - IND (at MIN)
|
283.
Adam Prentice
RB - NO (at CAR)
|
284.
KhaDarel Hodge
WR - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
285.
Jalen Reagor
WR - LAC (at CLE)
|
286.
John Bates
TE - WAS (at NYG)
|
287.
Keaton Mitchell
RB - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
288.
Tyreik McAllister
RB,WR - FA (BYE)
|
289.
Kristian Wilkerson
WR - LV (at CIN)
|
290.
Alex Bachman
WR - LV (at CIN)
|
291.
Parris Campbell
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
292.
DeAndre Carter
WR - CHI (at ARI)
|
293.
Sione Vaki
RB - DET (at GB)
|
294.
Brevyn Spann-Ford
TE - DAL (at ATL)
|
295.
Jalin Hyatt
WR - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
296.
Jack Stoll
TE - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
297.
Isaiah Davis
RB - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
298.
Kenny McIntosh
RB - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
299.
Hunter Long
TE - LAR (at SEA)
|
300.
Drew Sample
TE - CIN (vs . LV)
|
301.
Derius Davis
WR - LAC (at CLE)
|
302.
J.J. Taylor
RB - HOU (at NYJ)
|
303.
Tanner Hudson
TE - CIN (vs . LV)
|
304.
Luke Schoonmaker
TE - DAL (at ATL)
|
305.
Javon Baker
WR - NE (at TEN)
|
306.
Tip Reiman
TE - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
307.
Avery Williams
RB - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
308.
Travis Homer
RB - CHI (at ARI)
|
309.
Isaiah Williams
WR - DET (at GB)
|
310.
Blake Watson
RB - DEN (at BAL)
|
311.
Luke Farrell
TE - JAC (at PHI)
|
312.
Jake Funk
RB - JAC (at PHI)
|
313.
Davis Allen
TE - LAR (at SEA)
|
314.
Julian Hill
TE - MIA (at BUF)
|
315.
John Samuel Shenker
TE - FA (BYE)
|
316.
DeeJay Dallas
RB - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
317.
Jha'Quan Jackson
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
|
318.
Eric Tomlinson
TE - LAC (at CLE)
|
319.
Ainias Smith
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
320.
Dee Eskridge
WR - MIA (at BUF)
|
321.
Daniel Bellinger
TE - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
322.
Ian Thomas
TE - CAR (vs . NO)
|
323.
Payne Durham
TE - TB (at KC)
|
324.
Brady Russell
TE - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
325.
Trent Sherfield Sr.
WR - MIN (vs . IND)
|
326.
Johnny Wilson
WR - PHI (vs . JAC)
|
327.
Tanner Conner
TE - MIA (at BUF)
|
328.
Malachi Corley
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
329.
Charlie Woerner
TE - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
330.
Bryce Oliver
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
|
331.
Chris Rodriguez Jr.
RB - WAS (at NYG)
|
332.
Peyton Hendershot
TE - KC (vs . TB)
|
333.
Jermaine Jackson
WR - NO (at CAR)
|
334.
Jaelon Darden
WR - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
335.
Malik Heath
WR - GB (vs . DET)
|
336.
Brandon Powell
WR - MIN (vs . IND)
|
337.
Dareke Young
WR - SEA (vs . LAR)
|
338.
Ross Dwelley
TE - ATL (vs . DAL)
|
339.
Charlie Jones
WR - CIN (vs . LV)
|
340.
Ko Kieft
TE - TB (at KC)
|
341.
Marcedes Lewis
TE - CHI (at ARI)
|
342.
Deven Thompkins
WR - CAR (vs . NO)
|
343.
Teagan Quitoriano
TE - HOU (at NYJ)
|
344.
Geoff Swaim
TE - CLE (vs . LAC)
|
345.
Jaheim Bell
TE - NE (at TEN)
|
346.
Shane Zylstra
TE - DET (at GB)
|
347.
Steven Sims Jr.
WR - HOU (at NYJ)
|
348.
Jared Wiley
TE - KC (vs . TB)
|
349.
Zach Pascal
WR - ARI (vs . CHI)
|
350.
Tylan Wallace
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
351.
Montrell Washington
WR - KC (vs . TB)
|
352.
Quintin Morris
TE - BUF (vs . MIA)
|
353.
Kendall Milton
RB - CIN (vs . LV)
|
354.
Ryan Flournoy
WR - DAL (at ATL)
|
355.
Irvin Charles
WR - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
356.
Dylan Laube
RB - LV (at CIN)
|
357.
Mason Kinsey
WR - TEN (vs . NE)
|
358.
Chris Manhertz
TE - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
359.
Devontez Walker
WR - BAL (vs . DEN)
|
360.
Andrew Beck
RB - FA (BYE)
|
361.
Bryce Ford-Wheaton
WR - NYG (vs . WAS)
|
362.
Jordan Matthews
TE,WR - CAR (vs . NO)
|
363.
Josiah Deguara
TE - JAC (at PHI)
|
364.
Robert Tonyan
TE - MIN (vs . IND)
|
365.
Kenny Yeboah
TE - NYJ (vs . HOU)
|
366.
John FitzPatrick
TE - GB (vs . DET)
|
367.
Devin Culp
TE - TB (at KC)
|