Week 1 is in the books, and we’re looking for those IDP gems to supplement your roster. Whether you’ve had an injury or just aren’t feeling a Week 1 underperformer, head to the wire and check for these options.
Each week, we’ll highlight diamonds in the rough or some players that just need to be rostered in more leagues on the defensive side of the ball. Keep in mind your scoring system and roster restraints when heading to the waiver wire to grab these IDPs.
Defensive linemen
DE DeMarcus Lawrence, Dallas Cowboys
He didn’t get a lot of fanfare in drafts at the grizzled age of 32, but Lawrence came out with five tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble in Week 1. DE Micah Parsons looked like the best player on the field frequently in Week 1, and Lawrence really benefits on the other side.
DE Darrell Taylor, Chicago Bears
Taylor was an impact performer in Week 1 with eight tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. Here’s the problem. He was fifth among DL on his own team in snaps played in Week 1. His production can’t be overlooked, but temper expectations based on playing time.
Linebackers
LB Zack Baun, Philadelphia Eagles
Why not leave the oil paintings affixed to the wall the next time you bust the door down, Zack? He had 15 tackles and two sacks in what was mightily a career game for him. He’ll have plenty more tackle opportunities against the dinking-and-dunking Atlanta Falcons next week.
LB Mack Wilson, Arizona Cardinals
The 26-year-old Wilson had nine tackles and a PD against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1. He’s a weakside linebacker, and he may not have this tackle luster on a weekly basis. He should have some chances against the LA Rams in Week 2, though.
LB Darius Muasau, New York Giants
The sixth-round rookie had a solid debut in Week 1 with six tackles, an INT, and a pass defense. He’s the right inside linebacker in the team’s 3-4 defense, and he’ll have Kayvon Thibodeaux rushing on his side a lot. So don’t expect a ton of sack figures, but his tackles and coverage numbers equate to a good depth piece.
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Defensive backs
FS Tony Adams, New York Jets
Adams had a career game with 12 tackles, a sack, and a pass defense in Week 1. This could be a bit of an aberration as the San Francisco 49ers rushed 38 times in Week 1, which put Adams in a position to pile up tackles. Give him credit for taking advantage, though.
FS Nick Cross, Indianapolis Colts
With his Week 1 stat line, “Nick Cross will make ya Jump, Jump.” He busted out with 14 total tackles as three Colts defenders reached 10 tackles against the Houston Texans. Houston ran the ball 40 times, which you can’t count on every week, but he’ll be a high-end pickup for his tackle potential this week.
FS Juan Thornhill, Cleveland Browns
Rounding out our tackle hoarders from Week 1 is the sixth-year man. Thornhill delivered nine total tackles, and eight of them were solos. He had 54 tackles in 11 games last year and could have some staying power here.