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Fantasy football Week 3: Start, sit and sleepers

Eddie Brown, The San Diego Union-Tribune on

Published in Football

Here's a look back at Week 2's action and fantasy advice for the week ahead:

WEEK 2 RECAP

Bills 41, Lions 31: Josh Allen christened Buffalo’s new stadium with five total touchdowns, James Cook ran for 135 yards and a score, and Dalton Kincaid followed his 130-yard opener with seven catches for 95 yards and a TD, so the Bills’ offense looks capable of supporting multiple premium fantasy pieces every week.

Panthers 34, Falcons 3: Bryce Young has officially earned our attention after throwing for 287 yards and three touchdowns, giving him 648 yards, six TDs and only one interception through two games, while Tetairoa McMillan topped 100 yards and Jalen Coker caught eight passes for 66 yards.

Vikings 9, Bears 3: Minnesota’s defense followed a dominant second half against Green Bay by holding Chicago to three points, four sacks and two takeaways, making Brian Flores’ group a weekly fantasy consideration while Caleb Williams’ hamstring injury creates a potentially significant downgrade for every Bears skill player.

Eagles 24, Titans 20: DeVonta Smith caught 10 passes for 117 yards and a TD, but Dontayvion Wicks also delivered a critical 20-yard reception on Philadelphia’s winning drive and could benefit significantly from Dallas Goedert’s knee injury.

Patriots 20, Steelers 3: TreVeyon Henderson’s 39-yard touchdown highlighted his 16-carry, 76-yard season debut, while Rhamondre Stevenson lost a fumble on New England’s opening possession and was out-snapped 32-15 by Henderson the rest of the way. This is officially a committee, but Henderson’s explosiveness — combined with Stevenson’s recurring ball-security issues — gives him the edge for me going forward.

Packers 20, Jets 17 (OT): Matthew Golden caught four passes for 58 yards, and Christian Watson scored the game-tying touchdown as Green Bay’s passing game continued to consolidate without Jayden Reed. The backfield remains messy with MarShawn Lloyd, Kaleb Johnson and Chris Brooks all contributing in overtime, but the clearer target share has me much more interested in the Packers’ receivers going forward.

Browns 23, Buccaneers 19: Denzel Boston’s five catches for 95 yards included a 55-yard touchdown, while Deshaun Watson completed 24 of 30 passes for 238 yards and two scores — easily his most functional performance in quite some time, but I’m not ready to declare the coast clear.

Saints 24, Ravens 17: Tyler Shough has become one of fantasy’s most interesting young quarterbacks — “young” doing some heavy lifting for a second-year player who turns 27 next week — after another strong second half. Chris Olave’s eight catches for 86 yards and a TD also reinforced that this passing game can support weekly starters despite Alvin Kamara’s return muddying up the waters.

Bengals 20, Texans 6: Houston badly missed Nico Collins as Dalton Schultz vacuumed up 12 catches for 140 yards, while Cincinnati’s rebuilt defense held David Montgomery and Woody Marks to 18 rushing yards on 14 carries and generated 27 pressures.

Broncos 20, Jaguars 13: Jaylen Waddle delivered the explosive element Denver lacked in Week 1, while Jonah Coleman scored the winning touchdown and Trevor Lawrence crumbled under a second-half pass rush that pressured him on nearly half his dropbacks.

Raiders 26, Chargers 14: Kirk Cousins has thrown three touchdowns in each of his first two games with Las Vegas, Tre Tucker topped 100 receiving yards and Justin Herbert threw two interceptions as the Chargers’ supposedly explosive offense stumbled again.

Cowboys 37, Commanders 20: Dak Prescott completed 26 of 31 passes for 279 yards and four touchdowns, while CeeDee Lamb erupted for eight catches, 153 yards and two scores; Jayden Daniels’ dislocated elbow also makes Marcus Mariota Washington’s quarterback for the foreseeable future.

Seahawks 31, Cardinals 7: Jaxon Smith-Njigba remains cheat-code territory after nine catches for 155 yards and three touchdowns, while Drew Lock completed seven of 11 throws of at least 10 air yards for 175 yards and two TDs in a performance that keeps Seattle’s offense viable without Sam Darnold.

49ers 35, Dolphins 13: Brock Purdy completed all 10 of his passes traveling at least 10 yards downfield for 211 yards and finished with 287 yards, two touchdowns and a 149.1 passer rating, another reminder that San Francisco’s infrastructure can turn efficiency into fantasy fireworks when the primary pieces are relatively healthy.

Chiefs 33, Colts 30 (OT): Kenneth Walker III followed his spectacular Chiefs debut with 117 rushing yards, Patrick Mahomes threw for 382 yards and three TDs, and Travis Kelce produced his first 100-yard game since 2024 — Kansas City’s stars look like stars again.

Rams 28, Giants 6: With Puka Nacua sidelined, Davante Adams detonated for 195 receiving yards and two TDs, while Jaxson Dart’s knee injury leaves Jameis Winston in charge of keeping Malik Nabers, Cam Skattebo and Isaiah Likely fantasy-relevant.

Still wrestling with a lineup decision? Hit me up @UTEddieBrown on X, formerly known as Twitter, with any specific lineup questions I don’t cover below. And if you’re still working on your roster, you can find my Week 3 waiver wire targets here.

Here are my best bets for Week 3:

ATLANTA AT GREEN BAY

Obvious starters: Bijan Robinson (ATL), Drake London (ATL), Christian Watson (GB), Tucker Kraft (GB).

Who to start: Kyle Pitts (ATL) remains a TE1 candidate because the position is thin and Green Bay’s linebackers have more pressing concerns trying to contain Robinson. Jordan Love (GB) is a strong streaming option in the Packers’ home opener, having thrown for 532 yards with four TD passes against one interception through two games, including two scores in each outing. Matthew Golden (GB) has WR3/flex appeal after producing 58 yards last week and should inherit more opportunity with Jayden Reed sidelined. The Packers D/ST gets a rusty Michael Penix Jr. making his season debut on the road after Atlanta managed three points last week.

Who to sit: Brian Robinson (ATL) remains little more than Bijan’s TD-dependent understudy. Zachariah Branch (ATL) hasn’t earned enough dependable volume to trust in season-long formats. The Falcons D/ST draws a Green Bay offense with too many weapons to chase last week’s ugly Jets performance. MarShawn Lloyd (GB) is trapped in a committee that makes his weekly touch count impossible to predict. Kaleb Johnson (GB) flashed in overtime last week but remains part of the same three-way workload problem. Chris Brooks (GB) has passing-game utility but not enough guaranteed touches to trust outside deeper PPR formats.

Sleeper: Michael Penix Jr. (ATL) offers Superflex appeal in his return because London, Pitts and Bijan give him considerable playmaking help and he should be a significant upgrade over Cooper Rush and Jack Strand.

L.A. CHARGERS AT BUFFALO

Obvious starters: Omarion Hampton (LAC), Ladd McConkey (LAC), Josh Allen (BUF), James Cook (BUF), Dalton Kincaid (BUF).

Who to start: Justin Herbert (LAC) gets one more chance to justify our preseason optimism against a Buffalo defense that just allowed Jared Goff to throw for 327 yards and four TDs. DJ Moore (BUF) maintains WR1 upside if his injured shoulder allows him to play without substantial limitations. The Bills D/ST gets a turnover-prone Chargers offense that has coughed the ball up repeatedly during an 0-2 start.

Who to sit: Quentin Johnston (LAC) is a boom-or-bust option until Herbert begins pushing more production beyond McConkey. Tre’ Harris (LAC) hasn’t commanded enough targets to justify chasing his big-play profile. Keaton Mitchell (LAC) remains Hampton’s change-of-pace option rather than a reliable standalone starter. I’m fading the Chargers D/ST against an offense that just generated 446 yards and six touchdowns against Detroit. Khalil Shakir (BUF) is difficult to trust if Moore plays but moves into flex territory if Moore sits. Keon Coleman (BUF) missed Wednesday’s practice with an ankle injury and belongs on benches unless his health and role become clearer. Ray Davis (BUF) didn’t touch the ball against Detroit while Cook handled 21 carries. Joshua Palmer (BUF) remains the definition of boom or bust with both of his receptions this season going for touchdowns. Dawson Knox (BUF) needs a TD with Kincaid monopolizing the receiving upside at tight end.

Sleeper: Oronde Gadsden II (LAC) owns the receiving role at tight end with David Njoku out and Charlie Kolar recovering from forearm surgery, and Buffalo has already shown vulnerability through the middle of the field.

CAROLINA AT CLEVELAND

Obvious starters: Tetairoa McMillan (CAR), Quinshon Judkins (CLE).

Who to start: Bryce Young (CAR) is no longer a desperation streamer after opening the season with 648 passing yards, six TDs and one interception. Chuba Hubbard (CAR) maintains RB2 value with Jonathon Brooks headed for surgery and Carolina’s offense suddenly sustaining drives. Jalen Coker (CAR) has developed into a legitimate WR2/3 after eight receptions for 66 yards last week. Harold Fannin (CLE) remains a streaming option because Watson leaned on him as a safety valve during Cleveland’s comeback in Tampa. Denzel Boston (CLE) deserves flex consideration after turning five receptions into 95 yards and a touchdown in Week 2.

Who to sit: Darren Waller (CAR) scored twice last week, but chasing touchdowns without the accompanying elite volume is dangerous at this position. Deshaun Watson (CLE) needs to stack competent performances before one encouraging afternoon convinces me he’s a one-QB starter. KC Concepcion (CLE) remains behind Boston in the pecking order for high-value targets. Jerry Jeudy (CLE) has become difficult to trust while Cleveland funnels more opportunities toward its younger pass catchers. The Browns D/ST faces a Panthers offense that has scored efficiently behind one of the league’s hottest quarterbacks.

Sleeper: The Panthers D/ST followed its Week 1 humiliation by forcing five turnovers against Atlanta, including Devin Lloyd’s pick-six, and Watson remains an inviting target for opportunistic defenses.

N.Y. JETS AT DETROIT

Obvious starters: Breece Hall (NYJ), Garrett Wilson (NYJ), Jahmyr Gibbs (DET), Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET), Sam LaPorta (DET).

Who to start: Adonai Mitchell (NYJ) has WR3/flex upside after six catches for 63 yards last week against a Detroit secondary already hemorrhaging production. Jared Goff (DET) is the overall QB6 in fantasy points per game through two weeks and returns home after throwing four TDs in Buffalo. Jameson Williams (DET) is a classic positive-regression play whose routes and big-play role make the quiet start easier to tolerate.

Who to sit: Braelon Allen (NYJ) remains little more than a touchdown vulture behind Hall despite scoring last week. I’m fading the Jets D/ST against an offense with Gibbs, St. Brown, LaPorta and Williams indoors. I’m also fading the Lions D/ST in a game Pro Football Focus specifically identified as one of Week 3’s most fantasy-friendly passing environments.

Sleeper(s): Geno Smith (NYJ) faces a Detroit defense that has allowed three TD passes in each game and the most fantasy points to quarterbacks through two weeks. Kenyon Sadiq (NYJ) is a deep streaming option at a barren position.

HOUSTON AT INDIANAPOLIS

Obvious starters: Texans D/ST, Jonathan Taylor (IND), Tyler Warren (IND).

Who to start: Nico Collins (HOU) immediately returns to obvious-starter status if his hamstring allows him to play. David Montgomery (HOU) remains a volume-based RB2/flex despite last week’s nightmare because Houston needs the running game to protect C.J. Stroud. Dalton Schultz (HOU) became Stroud’s life raft without Collins, catching 12 passes for 140 yards against Cincinnati. Josh Downs (IND) has PPR-friendly WR3 appeal after catching seven passes for 72 yards at Kansas City, with Alec Pierce’s absence opening the door for an even larger target share.

Who to sit: Woody Marks (HOU) remains stuck in a committee after Houston’s running backs combined for 18 rushing yards last week. Jaylin Noel (HOU) hasn’t separated from a crowded supporting cast even with Collins unavailable. Xavier Hutchinson (HOU) hasn’t done much despite decent target volume. Daniel Jones (IND) faces a Houston defense talented enough to erase the rushing and efficiency that normally prop up his fantasy value. Keenan Allen (IND) ran only 15 routes after Alec Pierce departed last week, a troubling usage signal. Darius Slayton (IND) remains a downfield dart rather than a dependable weekly starter. The Colts D/ST isn’t trustworthy against an offense that could get Collins back.

Sleeper(s): C.J. Stroud (HOU) deserves streaming consideration against an Indianapolis secondary dealing with injuries after he was forced to throw 56 times last week. Kayshon Boutte (HOU) has deep-league flex appeal if Collins sits because somebody besides Schultz has to inherit those perimeter targets.

KANSAS CITY AT MIAMI

Obvious starters: Patrick Mahomes (KC), Kenneth Walker III (KC), Rashee Rice (KC), Travis Kelce (KC), De’Von Achane (MIA).

Who to start: The Chiefs D/ST gets a Dolphins offense quarterbacked by Malik Willis and missing some of its receiving firepower in a game Kansas City enters as a substantial favorite.

Who to sit: Xavier Worthy (KC) remains difficult to trust while Rice and Kelce dominate the high-value passing work. Emmett Johnson (KC) is a premium insurance policy for Walker, not a standalone starter while Walker is averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game. Malik Willis (MIA) is a Superflex-only option against a defense capable of squeezing his rushing lanes and forcing obvious passing situations. Caleb Douglas (MIA) missed Wednesday’s practice with an ankle injury. Malik Washington (MIA) may see volume but remains a low-ceiling play in a difficult passing matchup. Chris Bell (MIA) belongs in the same bucket unless injuries leave Miami desperate for targets. The Dolphins D/ST should be nowhere near lineups against Mahomes, Walker, Rice and Kelce.

Sleeper: Greg Dulcich (MIA) has deep-league streaming appeal because negative game script should force Miami to throw and tight ends can become a quarterback’s easiest source of layups.

TENNESSEE AT N.Y. GIANTS

 

Obvious starters: Malik Nabers (NYG), Cam Skattebo (NYG).

Who to start: Tony Pollard (TEN) maintains RB2/flex value because a low-total game should keep Tennessee committed to the run. Wan’Dale Robinson (TEN) remains a deeper PPR flex against his former team because his short-area role gives Cam Ward an easy answer against pressure. Isaiah Likely (NYG) remains a TE1 after drawing nine targets from Jameis Winston following Jaxson Dart’s injury.

Who to sit: Cam Ward (TEN) hasn’t shown enough passing efficiency to trust outside Superflex leagues. Carnell Tate (TEN) owns an encouraging 24% target share and 84% route participation, but the production hasn’t caught up yet. Tyjae Spears (TEN) doesn’t have enough high-value work behind Pollard, yet. Calvin Ridley (TEN) remains too volatile until Ward’s accuracy and timing improve. Gunnar Helm (TEN) is TD-dependent in an offense struggling to generate touchdowns. Jameis Winston (NYG) belongs in Superflex formats only after producing a 37.7 passer rating in relief Monday. Devin Singletary (NYG) is buried behind Skattebo for fantasy purposes. Malachi Fields (NYG) needs more consistent volume before he belongs in season-long lineups.

Sleeper(s): The Titans D/ST gets turnover-prone Winston behind an offense that generated only six points Monday. The Giants D/ST gets a young quarterback in Ward in the lowest-projected scoring environment on the slate.

CINCINNATI AT PITTSBURGH

Obvious starters: Joe Burrow (CIN), Ja’Marr Chase (CIN), Chase Brown (CIN), Tee Higgins (CIN).

Who to start: The Bengals D/ST has allowed one touchdown in two games and just generated 27 pressures against Houston. DK Metcalf (PIT) remains a volume-driven WR3/flex despite the ugly results because he’s still among the league leaders in routes and targets. Jaylen Warren (PIT) has RB2 appeal because Pittsburgh needs to manufacture easier offense around Aaron Rodgers. Pat Freiermuth (PIT) deserves streaming consideration against a Bengals defense whose weakest fantasy matchup is more likely to come through the middle than outside.

Who to sit: Mike Gesicki (CIN) remains TD-dependent behind Cincinnati’s three elite fantasy weapons. Aaron Rodgers (PIT) is difficult to trust after New England battered him for four sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception. Michael Pittman Jr. (PIT) adds another mouth to feed without changing the limitations of the quarterback feeding them. Rico Dowdle (PIT) doesn’t have a large enough share of Warren’s backfield to trust. Germie Bernard (PIT) remains a developmental stash rather than a fantasy starter.

Sleeper: Darnell Washington (PIT) is the kind of giant red-zone target who can pay off a desperate tight-end streamer with one well-designed scoring opportunity.

SEATTLE AT WASHINGTON

Obvious starters: Jaxon Smith-Njigba (SEA), Seahawks D/ST.

Who to start: Drew Lock (SEA) deserves streaming consideration if he starts again after completing seven of 11 downfield attempts for 175 yards and two TDs last week. Rashid Shaheed (SEA) is a boom-or-bust flex whose vertical skill set fits perfectly against a Washington defense allowing the league’s highest opposing passer rating. Terry McLaurin (WAS) remains a volume-based WR3 despite the difficult matchup because Washington has to manufacture offense without Jayden Daniels. Stefon Diggs (WAS) maintains WR3/flex value after opening the season as one of fantasy’s most productive receivers.

Who to sit: Jadarian Price (SEA) is dealing with a chest injury in a backfield whose Week 3 distribution remains unclear. Cooper Kupp (SEA) hasn’t produced enough with Lock to overcome a shrinking target share. Emanuel Wilson (SEA) is caught in the same murky committee as Price. George Holani (SEA) needs multiple injuries ahead of him before becoming lineup material. Marcus Mariota (WAS) averaged a useful 17.1 fantasy points in seven starts last season, but Seattle has suffocated opposing quarterbacks through two games. Jacory Croskey-Merritt (WAS) draws one of the league’s nastiest fronts with limited receiving work to save his floor. Rachaad White (WAS) remains part of a committee attached to a backup quarterback. Antonio Williams (WAS) hasn’t earned enough volume to chase in this matchup. Chig Okonkwo (WAS) is TD-dependent in an offense whose scoring opportunities just declined significantly. The Commanders D/ST draws the defending champions coming off a 31-point performance.

Sleeper: AJ Barner (SEA) offers tight-end streaming appeal because Washington’s defensive problems should create scoring chances even if Smith-Njigba dominates the targets.

NEW ENGLAND AT JACKSONVILLE

Obvious starters: Drake Maye (NE), Parker Washington (JAC).

Who to start: Rhamondre Stevenson (NE) remains the preferred PPR flex in New England’s committee because he’ll likely retain the passing-down work despite last week’s fumble. TreVeyon Henderson (NE) forced his way into RB2/flex consideration with 76 rushing yards and a 39-yard TD in his season debut. Romeo Doubs (NE) has flex appeal after his 63-yard reception highlighted a 96-yard afternoon. The Patriots D/ST has produced impact plays in both games and now faces a quarterback with the league’s highest turnover-worthy-play rate, according to FantasyPros. Trevor Lawrence (JAC) remains a streaming candidate at home because Jacksonville’s offense was humming before running into Denver’s pass rush. Bhayshul Tuten (JAC) has flex appeal if his workload continues growing in what projects as a competitive game.

Who to sit: Hunter Henry (NE) is a TD-dependent option with Doubs and the running backs commanding more of Maye’s attention. Mack Hollins (NE) remains a low-volume perimeter option. Brian Thomas (JAC) is difficult to trust until his role and efficiency rebound from a rough opening fortnight. Jakobi Meyers (JAC) is a PPR bench option until Lawrence shows he can support multiple secondary targets consistently. Brenton Strange (JAC) faces a Patriots defense that has limited explosive passing plays. Chris Rodriguez (JAC) doesn’t have enough work to survive without a TD.

Sleeper(s): DeMario Douglas (NE) can exploit underneath space if Jacksonville focuses its coverage on Doubs. The Jaguars D/ST has streaming appeal at home against a New England offensive line that struggled to protect Maye last week.

ARIZONA AT SAN FRANCISCO

Obvious starters: Trey McBride (ARI), Christian McCaffrey (SF), George Kittle (SF).

Who to start: Jeremiyah Love (ARI) maintains RB2/flex appeal because Arizona should lean on its most explosive runner after last week’s offensive collapse. Michael Wilson (ARI) has drawn seven targets in each game and remains a volume-driven flex despite modest production. Brock Purdy (SF) is coming off a near-perfect downfield performance and belongs firmly in QB1 territory. Mike Evans (SF) has WR2 upside against an Arizona secondary that just surrendered three touchdowns to Smith-Njigba. Deebo Samuel (SF) remains a must-use weapon because San Francisco can manufacture touches for him regardless of coverage. The 49ers D/ST faces an Arizona offense that managed 151 yards and 10 first downs last week.

Who to sit: Jacoby Brissett (ARI) threw for only 95 yards against Seattle and now faces another loaded NFC West defense. Marvin Harrison Jr. (ARI) has one catch for 33 yards on four targets through two games and can’t be trusted until that usage changes dramatically. The Cardinals D/ST draws a San Francisco offense operating at peak efficiency. Kaelon Black (SF) remains an elite handcuff rather than a standalone starter while McCaffrey is healthy.

Sleeper: Tyler Allgeier (ARI) retains TD-dependent flex appeal because his physical style can still earn short-yardage and goal-line opportunities even with Love leading the backfield.

MINNESOTA AT TAMPA BAY

Obvious starters: Justin Jefferson (MIN), Bucky Irving (TB), Emeka Egbuka (TB).

Who to start: Kyler Murray (MIN) is back from concussion protocol and his rushing ability immediately restores QB1 upside against a Tampa Bay defense whose blitzes haven’t consistently produced pressure. T.J. Hockenson (MIN) owns a healthy 20.5% target share and faces a defense allowing top-10 efficiency to tight ends. The Vikings D/ST has allowed six points over its last six quarters and blitzed Caleb Williams on more than 80% of his dropbacks last week.

Who to sit: Aaron Jones (MIN) missed Wednesday’s practice with a knee injury and isn’t worth forcing into lineups at less than full strength. Jordan Addison (MIN) has yet to establish a meaningful fantasy role and sits outside the dependable target core. DeeJay Dallas (MIN) is also battling a toe injury and remains more insurance than standalone value. Baker Mayfield (TB) gets the full Brian Flores experience after Minnesota generated four sacks and 10 QB hits against Chicago. Chris Godwin (TB) owns only an 11.3% target share with no red-zone targets through two games. Kenneth Gainwell (TB) remains firmly behind Irving for high-value touches. Cade Otton (TB) is a TD-dependent TE2 against a defense capable of confusing protection schemes. Jalen McMillan (TB) hasn’t earned enough routes or targets to trust despite returning to full practice. The Buccaneers D/ST faces a much more dangerous Minnesota offense with Murray back.

Sleeper(s): Demond Claiborne (MIN) becomes an intriguing deep-league flex if Jones is inactive because Minnesota would have significant early-down work available. Ted Hurst III (TB) earned a 20.6% target share and five deep targets last week, giving him legitimate big-play upside against Minnesota.

BALTIMORE VS. DALLAS AT RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL

Obvious starters: Lamar Jackson (BAL), Derrick Henry (BAL), Dak Prescott (DAL), CeeDee Lamb (DAL), George Pickens (DAL), Javonte Williams (DAL).

Who to start: Zay Flowers (BAL) is an obvious starter if his hamstring allows him to play without limitations. Mark Andrews (BAL) belongs back in lineups in a game with one of the week’s highest projected totals and a Dallas defense vulnerable to explosive passing plays. Jake Ferguson (DAL) is worth streaming after scoring twice last week because Baltimore-Dallas projects to produce enough red-zone trips to keep his touchdown equity alive.

Who to sit: I’m fading the Ravens D/ST against a Dallas offense that scored on seven of eight possessions last week. Ryan Flournoy (DAL) remains too far down the target hierarchy behind Lamb, Pickens and Ferguson. The Cowboys D/ST draws Jackson and Henry in Brazil after allowing Washington to pile up 203 yards in the second quarter alone last week.

Sleeper: Rashod Bateman (BAL) scored against New Orleans and becomes an especially attractive flex if Flowers is unavailable or limited.

LAS VEGAS AT NEW ORLEANS

Obvious starters: Ashton Jeanty (LV), Chris Olave (NO).

Who to start: Brock Bowers (LV) returns to obvious-starter status if he’s active after being limited Wednesday in his recovery from knee surgery. Kirk Cousins (LV) is a premium streamer after becoming only the second Raiders quarterback to throw at least three TD passes in each of the first two games of a season. Tre Tucker (LV) has flex appeal after torching the Chargers for his second career 100-yard game. Tyler Shough (NO) is the overall QB5 after throwing for 662 yards through two games. Juwan Johnson (NO) remains a strong streamer as one of Shough’s most trusted middle-of-field targets. Devaughn Vele (NO) has deeper flex appeal after five receptions on seven targets against Baltimore.

Who to sit: Jalen Nailor (LV) doesn’t have a stable enough role behind Tucker and Bowers. Michael Mayer (LV) returns to TD-dependent status if Bowers plays. Mike Washington Jr. (LV) remains Jeanty’s insurance policy rather than a weekly flex. The Raiders D/ST faces a Saints offense that has moved the ball well in both second halves this season. Travis Etienne (NO) managed only eight carries and two targets with Kamara back last week. Alvin Kamara (NO) led the backfield in carries and targets in his season debut but remains difficult to start until New Orleans clarifies this three-man rotation.

Sleeper: The Saints D/ST deserves streaming consideration at home after sacking Lamar Jackson three times and now gets an immobile Cousins behind a Raiders offense who struggled to run the ball against the Chargers.

L.A. RAMS AT DENVER

Obvious starters: Davante Adams (LAR), Kyren Williams (LAR), Jaylen Waddle (DEN).

Who to start: Matthew Stafford (LAR) remains a viable streamer because Adams just demonstrated he can carry this passing game while Nacua is sidelined. The Rams D/ST gets a Denver offense whose quarterback has produced only two total touchdowns and eight rushing yards through two games. The Broncos D/ST remains startable at home because its pass rush can create problems for Stafford and Nacua’s availability remains uncertain.

Who to sit: Puka Nacua (LAR) belongs on benches unless late-week reports show he’s fully recovered from the groin injury; an unrestricted Nacua immediately returns to obvious-starter territory. Terrance Ferguson (LAR) remains TD-dependent despite an expanded role without Nacua. Bo Nix (DEN) faces a Rams defense capable of making his already-slow fantasy start even more frustrating. Courtland Sutton (DEN) has only 36 yards on nine targets through two games while Waddle has immediately become Denver’s more explosive option. J.K. Dobbins (DEN) would have RB2/flex appeal if healthy, but he was limited Wednesday with a hip injury. R.J. Harvey (DEN) would carry PPR flex value at full strength, but the hamstring injury that cost him Week 2 still limited him in practice Wednesday. Jonah Coleman (DEN) would normally be the odd man out in a healthy three-man rotation, but his own ankle injury kept him out of Wednesday’s practice; if Dobbins and/or Harvey are out or limited Sunday, Coleman has RB2/flex upside if he’s cleared to play.

Sleeper(s): Blake Corum (LAR) has flex appeal in deeper standard leagues because Ronnie Rivers’ injury consolidates the backup work behind Williams. Pat Bryant (DEN) is a deep-league dart if defenses continue tilting coverage toward Waddle and Sutton.

PHILADELPHIA AT CHICAGO

Obvious starters: Jalen Hurts (PHI), Saquon Barkley (PHI), DeVonta Smith (PHI), D’Andre Swift (CHI).

Who to start: Dontayvion Wicks (PHI) has WR3/flex upside after helping win last week’s game and should absorb more targets with Goedert expected to miss multiple weeks. The Eagles D/ST is one of the week’s premium plays with Caleb Williams nursing a hamstring injury and Tyson Bagent in concussion protocol. Rome Odunze (CHI) remains a flex because Chicago should be forced to throw regardless of who starts at quarterback. Luther Burden III (CHI) also benefits from projected negative game script and has the talent to turn manufactured touches into chunk gains. Kyle Monangai (CHI) retains flex appeal because Chicago may lean harder on its running backs to protect whichever backup quarterback starts.

Who to sit: Dallas Goedert (PHI) is expected to miss multiple weeks with a sprained MCL. Makai Lemon (PHI) should see more snaps but remains behind Smith and Wicks for targets. Tank Bigsby (PHI) becomes highly valuable if Barkley’s stinger keeps him out but is otherwise TD-dependent. Caleb Williams (CHI) is week-to-week with a hamstring strain and shouldn’t be in fantasy plans this week. Colston Loveland (CHI) has one catch for three yards through two games and now faces a downgrade at quarterback. Kalif Raymond (CHI) remains a gadget option who only has value in the deepest PPR formats. The Bears D/ST gets Hurts, Barkley and a Philadelphia offense capable of punishing short fields.

Sleeper: Case Keenum (CHI) only belongs on the radar in Superflex leagues if both Williams and Bagent are unavailable, but the veteran at least gets a home start and enough skill-position talent to manufacture usable production.


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