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Recapping Week 1, talking Week 2 lineup decisions, and more!
In this episode, Steve and Harley bring you NFL news, Week 1 reactions, and “DFS Pay-ups, Stay-aways and Value Plays.” So Huddle up, tune in, and get Blitzed!
Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 2 DFS fantasy football
Week 2 witnessed some slate-breaking performances by cheap QBs and some heart-breaking performances by expensive RBs. Will we see more of the same this week or will we finally see the first sense of normalcy in 2022?
SAN FRANCISCO @ DENVER
When the NFL made their schedule, I doubt they planned on Jimmy Garoppolo (QB2) being the second-best option on this slate. Even then, it isn’t a great matchup as San Fran is still run-first and Denver has a great pass defense, though injuries could play a role.
Russell Wilson (QB1) is the top option here. Still, this matchup isn’t great either, and Wilson has struggled to start the season as his WR corps is plastered with injuries. I may end up fading him due to his price.
Injuries have promoted Jeff Wilson (RB3) to RB1 in San Fran on the depth chart. Of course, we all know that Deebo Samuel is likely to finish with just as strong of a line, just not qualifying at the position. I don’t mind using Wilson at RB2/flex. I also don’t hate Kyle Juszcyzk (RB7) as a punt play or on Showdown.
Javonte Williams (RB2) once again split touches evenly with Melvin Gordon (RB6) despite the clear difference in talent. San Francisco is elite against the run, so I cannot recommend either of them highly here.
Deebo Samuel (WR1) is the strongest WR play on this slate (and arguably the strongest RB play as well). He needs to be in your lineup. Brandon Aiyuk (WR5) has a rough matchup here, but I’d consider him at WR3 (if you don’t use Samuel). Both Jauan Jennings (WR13) and Ray-Ray McCloud (WR14) have dart-throw WR3/flex values at a minimum cost. I especially like Jennings in Showdown.
The injuries continue to mount for Denver. Jerry Jeudy (ribs, WR6) joins KJ Hamler (knee, WR10) and out-for-the-year Tim Patrick as WRs to spend time on the trainer’s table this season. Either Jeudy or Hamler could be a WR3 option if they play, but I’d be scared to trust either of them. Courtland Sutton (WR2), on the other hand, is a strong play with the Broncos being shorthanded. I’d even consider Montrell Washington (WR11) as a WR3 option if both Hamler and Jeudy are out.
We may finally see George Kittle (groin, TE1) this week. His presence on the field would make Garoppolo’s day easier. If he is out again, do not consider Ross Dwelley (TE5) or Tyler Kroft (TE6). They are not reliable enough.
Albert Okwuegbunam (TE3) could have value if the Denver WRs remain out. He also could be ignored by his QB like in Week 2. If you choose to do a double-TE lineup consider him here.
DALLAS @ NEW YORK GIANTS
Cooper Rush (QB3) actually looked serviceable in Week 2. He has the softest matchup on the board, and, based on his price, I will definitely give him some ownership.
Meanwhile, Daniel Jones (QB4) is not very good, and he is facing a better-than-I-expected Dallas defense. He also has the worst collection of pass-catchers on the board. Ignore him completely.
Ezekiel Elliott (RB4) and Tony Pollard (RB5) split the workload for a second-straight week. Elliott is getting more carries, and Pollard is getting more receptions. This game will be more run-forward for Dallas, so I prefer Elliott. Still, they are both options at RB2 on a small slate.
This is the only spot I will recommend using a Giant. Saquon Barkley (RB1) is the best RB on the slate, and it isn’t particularly close. Much like Samuel above, Barkley should be 100 percent owned.
Considering their synergy, I love Noah Brown (WR4) as a stack with Cooper Rush. CeeDee Lamb (WR3) is a more-talented receiver, but Brown has been more valuable to start the season. Brown’s value will slide some as Michael Gallup (knee, WR8) returns as expected. I’d only consider Gallup at WR3 as he is expected to be on a snap count. Don’t bother with any of the other depth WRs for Dallas.
When you look at the Giants’ WR room, all I can think is “yuck!” Sterling Shepard (WR7) and Richie James (WR9) only rank this high because the whole slate is devoid of talent. One of them could be your WR3, at best. Kadarius Toney (WR12) was active last week, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at the box score. Wan’Dale Robinson (WR15) actually looks like an intriguing dynasty piece, but he has been battling injury. Don’t use him or any of the other chaff here this week.
Dalton Schultz (knee, TE2) isn’t a bad third-leg to a stack with Rush and either Brown or Lamb. I could even see doing a double-TE lineup with him and Kittle. Just confirm his status before putting him into your lineup. None of the backup TEs have any value, even if Schultz is out.
Daniel Bellinger (TE4) caught a TD in Week 2. It was also his only catch and only target. This does not bring me joy.
DK Lineup: QB Jalen Hurts ($7.6k), RB Dalvin Cook ($7.9k), RB David Montgomery ($5.9k), WR A.J. Brown ($7.3k), WR Curtis Samuel ($5.1k), WR Mack Hollins ($3.3k), TE Dallas Goedert ($4.7k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($5k), DST Baltimore Ravens ($3k)
FD Lineup: QB Jared Goff ($7.1k), RB Dalvin Cook ($8.3k), RB David Montgomery ($7.1k), WR Justin Jefferson ($9.5k), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ($7.8k), WR DeVonta Smith ($6k), TE Zach Ertz ($5.2k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($5.8k), DST Jacksonville Jaguars ($3.2k)
FB Lineup: QB Jared Goff ($5.7k), RB Joe Mixon ($6.7k), RB David Montgomery ($5.4k), WR Justin Jefferson ($7.6k), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ($6.6k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.8k), TE Logan Thomas ($3.3k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($4.3k), FLEX DeVonta Smith ($4.9k)
| Quarterbacks | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Allen | $8,200 | $9,000 |
| Lamar Jackson | $8,000 | $8,600 |
| Patrick Mahomes | $7,900 | $8,700 |
| Jalen Hurts | $7,600 | $8,100 |
| Justin Herbert | $7,400 | $8,200 |
| Kyler Murray | $7,300 | $7,800 |
| Kirk Cousins | $6,700 | $7,600 |
| Joe Burrow | $6,600 | $7,500 |
| Matthew Stafford | $6,500 | $7,700 |
| Aaron Rodgers | $6,400 | $7,400 |
| Carson Wentz | $6,300 | $7,500 |
| Tua Tagovailoa | $6,100 | $7,300 |
| Tom Brady | $6,000 | $7,400 |
| Derek Carr | $5,900 | $7,100 |
| Jared Goff | $5,800 | $7,100 |
| Ryan Tannehill | $5,700 | $7,200 |
| Justin Fields | $5,600 | $7,000 |
| Marcus Mariota | $5,500 | $7,300 |
| Trevor Lawrence | $5,400 | $7,000 |
| Joe Flacco | $5,300 | $6,800 |
| Baker Mayfield | $5,200 | $6,600 |
| Jameis Winston | $5,200 | $6,900 |
| Matt Ryan | $5,200 | $6,700 |
| Mac Jones | $5,100 | $6,400 |
| Chase Daniel | $5,000 | $6,500 |
| Davis Mills | $5,000 | $6,400 |
| Geno Smith | $5,000 | $6,300 |
| Taysom Hill | $4,900 | n/a |
Weekly strategy – Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts are the two safest high-priced options. Kirk Cousins and Joe Burrow are cheaper pivots that will return better production than they did last week. Of that foursome, Hurts will be my first choice. If I go cheaper, it will be with Jared Goff or Trevor Lawrence. The FD pricing structure does not encourage punting this position, but on DK consider Davis Mills or Matt Ryan if you are feeling a little froggy.
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs @ IND
($7,900 DK, $8,700 FD)
The Colts are starting the season looking like a gimpy animal and Mahomes and the Chiefs are coming to Indy to send them to the 2022 glue factory. A healthy Michael Pittman would help keep the Colts in the race until the homestretch, but ultimately Mahomes and his paddock-mates will pull away. Nevertheless, consider running it back with Pittman here if he plays.
Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ WAS ($7,600 DK, $8,100 FD) I will eat crow on Hurts. The addition of superstar A.J. Brown has made this offense impossible to defend. Washington allowed Jared Goff to throw for four scores, and he presented no rushing threat. Expect Hurts to manufacture a total of three scores here.
Josh Allen, Bills @ MIA
($8,200 DK, $9,000 FD) Allen has 25 total TDs in eight career matchups against Miami. Unfortunately, he has topped 260 passing yards against them only once. Basically, Miami frustrates him through the air, but then he still gets it done on the ground as is witnessed by his 7-1 record against them. What this means is expect a solid floor day of 250-2, 40-1, which is solid but not spectacular by his lofty standards.
Kirk Cousins, Vikings vs. DET
($6,700 DK, $7,600 FD) I love how recency bias can sway ownership figures in DFS. Cousins looked lost last week in Philly. Fast-forward to this Sunday, Minnesota will be at home and the game will not be in primetime (where Cousins has historically struggled). I expect that he will have low ownership numbers this week. Meanwhile, I’ll be happy to stack him and Justin Jefferson against a Detroit secondary that has allowed the fifth-most passing yards in an expected shootout.
Jared Goff, Lions @ MIN
($5,800 DK, $7,100 FD) The other side of this shootout is led by Goff. Minnesota has actually allowed more passing yards than Detroit. If you want less expensive access to this game, stack Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown and then run it back with Adam Thielen or Irv Smith.
Derek Carr, Raiders @ TEN
($5,900 DK, $7,100 FD)
Tennessee will still be shellshocked from facing the Bills and Stefon Diggs. Now they have to contend with Carr and Davante Adams. Expect that pair to score twice against this soft secondary, and then hopefully Carr can add another score elsewhere.
| Running backs | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Taylor | $9,000 | $9,400 |
| Christian McCaffrey | $8,800 | $8,500 |
| Derrick Henry | $8,100 | $8,800 |
| Austin Ekeler | $8,000 | $8,700 |
| Dalvin Cook |
$7,900 | $8,300 |
| Saquon Barkley | $7,800 | $8,500 |
| Joe Mixon | $7,600 | $8,200 |
| Aaron Jones | $7,400 | $7,000 |
| D’Andre Swift | $7,200 | $8,000 |
| Alvin Kamara | $7,000 | $7,000 |
| Leonard Fournette | $6,500 | $7,200 |
| Antonio Gibson | $6,400 | $6,700 |
| Clyde Edwards-Helaire | $6,300 | $7,300 |
| James Conner | $6,200 | $7,100 |
| James Robinson | $6,100 | $6,600 |
| AJ Dillon | $6,000 | $6,900 |
| David Montgomery | $5,900 | $7,100 |
| Cordarrelle Patterson | $5,800 | $7,600 |
| Darrell Henderson | $5,700 | $6,300 |
| Damien Harris | $5,600 | $6,400 |
| Devin Singletary | $5,600 | $6,100 |
| Cam Akers | $5,500 | $5,800 |
| Mark Ingram | $5,500 | $5,700 |
| Miles Sanders | $5,500 | $6,800 |
| Jamaal Williams | $5,400 | $6,500 |
| Josh Jacobs | $5,400 | $6,500 |
| Travis Etienne | $5,400 | $5,600 |
| Breece Hall | $5,300 | $6,200 |
| J.D. McKissic | $5,300 | $5,300 |
| J.K. Dobbins | $5,300 | $6,000 |
| Khalil Herbert | $5,200 | $6,000 |
| Michael Carter | $5,200 | $5,900 |
| Chase Edmonds | $5,100 | $5,700 |
| Darrel Williams | $5,100 | $4,900 |
| Dontrell Hilliard | $5,100 | $6,200 |
| Dameon Pierce | $5,000 | $5,800 |
| Kenneth Gainwell | $5,000 | $5,900 |
| Kenneth Walker | $5,000 | $5,200 |
| Nyheim Hines | $5,000 | $5,100 |
| Rashaad Penny | $4,900 | $6,200 |
| Rex Burkhead | $4,900 | $5,200 |
| Kenyan Drake | $4,800 | $5,500 |
| Rhamondre Stevenson | $4,800 | $5,400 |
| Zack Moss | $4,800 | $5,500 |
| Boston Scott | $4,700 | $5,800 |
| Eno Benjamin | $4,700 | $5,000 |
| Gus Edwards | $4,700 | $5,000 |
| Jerick McKinnon | $4,500 | $5,000 |
| Raheem Mostert | $4,500 | $5,500 |
| Tyler Allgeier | $4,400 | $4,800 |
| Zander Horvath | $4,000 | $4,600 |
Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey and Dalvin Cook are primed to finally break out this week. Use one of them or Joe Mixon at RB1. If you spend up for RB2, go with David Montgomery. He is my favorite value RB play of the week. Heck, he could also be your RB1 if you want to spend big at WR. Josh Jacobs and Dameon Pierce are volume-based punt options here. Unfortunately, most of the cheaper options need to be avoided this week.
Dalvin Cook, Vikings vs. DET
($7,900 DK, $8,300 FD) Following an embarrassing defeat Monday night, coach Kevin O’Connell made it clear that the team had to get Cook more involved in the offense. That will start here against a Detroit defense that has already allowed four rushing TDs and the sixth-most RB receptions.
Joe Mixon, Bengals @ NYJ
($7,600 DK, $8,200 FD) Mixon underperformed in Week 2, but he is a true bell cow for Cincinnati. He will score this week as the Jets have allowed three TDs to RBs so far. He may even score twice.
Christian McCaffrey, Panthers vs. NO
($8,800 DK, $8,500 FD) McCaffrey has never posted a huge rushing number against New Orleans, but he has always feasted against them through the air. On a week where there are more questions than answers at RB, go with the safe option, especially with his salary this low.
Jonathan Taylor, Colts vs. KC
($9,000 DK, $9,400 FD) I always love deploying Taylor when his price dips below $10k. A returning Michael Pittman would mean that Taylor will have more room to operate. Still, to keep this close, he will need to be targeted like Week 1 and not Week 2 since KC has allowed the most receptions to the position.
David Montgomery, Bears vs. HOU
($5,900 DK, $7,100 FD) Montgomery has been the only sign of life on this Bears offense. In Week 2, he averaged more than 8 YPC while gouging a Green Bay defense. Meanwhile, Houston has allowed a league-worst 367 combo yards to opposing RBs. Consider the game stack of both Montgomery and Dameon Pierce to give you big money to blow at WR.
Dameon Pierce, Texans @ CHI
($5,000 DK, $5,800 FD)
Pierce is cheap for one more week and Week 2 proved that Houston will feed him the rock. In fact, Pierce was the only RB to get a carry. The Bears have allowed 128 RB rushing yards per game. I’ll take that from the rookie.
| Wide receivers | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Cooper Kupp | $9,900 | $9,800 |
| Justin Jefferson | $9,300 | $9,500 |
| Davante Adams | $8,400 | $8,700 |
| Ja’Marr Chase | $8,100 | $8,500 |
| Stefon Diggs | $7,700 | $8,300 |
| Tyreek Hill | $7,600 | $8,400 |
| A.J. Brown | $7,300 | $8,000 |
| Amon-Ra St. Brown | $7,200 | $7,800 |
| Michael Pittman | $6,900 | $7,400 |
| Jaylen Waddle | $6,800 | $7,500 |
| Mike Williams | $6,700 | $7,000 |
| Mike Evans | $6,600 | $7,700 |
| Keenan Allen | $6,500 | $7,500 |
| Terry McLaurin | $6,400 | $6,900 |
| Gabe Davis | $6,300 | $7,200 |
| Chris Godwin | $6,200 | $6,500 |
| Christian Kirk | $6,200 | $7,100 |
| DK Metcalf | $6,100 | $6,700 |
| Tee Higgins | $6,100 | $7,300 |
| Allen Lazard | $6,000 | $6,000 |
| Marquise Brown | $6,000 | $7,000 |
| Adam Thielen | $5,900 | $6,000 |
| Michael Thomas | $5,900 | $7,300 |
| Brandin Cooks | $5,800 | $6,600 |
| Drake London | $5,800 | $6,200 |
| Tyler Lockett | $5,800 | $6,600 |
| Allen Robinson | $5,700 | $6,000 |
| Rashod Bateman | $5,700 | $6,800 |
| DJ Moore | $5,600 | $6,400 |
| Julio Jones | $5,600 | $5,800 |
| Hunter Renfrow | $5,500 | $5,800 |
| JuJu Smith-Schuster | $5,500 | $6,100 |
| Garrett Wilson | $5,400 | $6,100 |
| Darnell Mooney | $5,300 | $6,300 |
| DeVonta Smith | $5,200 | $6,000 |
| Tyler Boyd | $5,200 | $5,900 |
| Curtis Samuel | $5,100 | $6,300 |
| DJ Chark | $5,100 | $5,500 |
| Elijah Moore | $5,000 | $5,500 |
| Jakobi Meyers | $5,000 | $6,200 |
| Robbie Anderson | $5,000 | $5,700 |
| Robert Woods | $5,000 | $5,700 |
| Corey Davis | $4,900 | $5,800 |
| K.J. Osborn | $4,900 | $5,500 |
| Treylon Burks | $4,900 | $5,900 |
| Jarvis Landry | $4,800 | $5,900 |
| Joshua Palmer | $4,800 | $5,600 |
| Isaiah McKenzie | $4,700 | $5,500 |
| Marquez Valdes-Scantling | $4,700 | $5,600 |
| Russell Gage | $4,700 | $5,700 |
| Jahan Dotson | $4,600 | $6,000 |
| Mecole Hardman | $4,600 | $5,800 |
| Chris Olave | $4,500 | $5,500 |
| Josh Reynolds | $4,500 | $5,300 |
| Jamison Crowder | $4,400 | $5,400 |
| Sammy Watkins | $4,400 | $5,400 |
| Greg Dortch | $4,300 | $5,100 |
| Olamide Zaccheaus | $4,300 | $5,100 |
| DeAndre Carter | $4,200 | $5,300 |
| Nick Westbrook-Ikhine | $4,200 | $5,300 |
| Nelson Agholor | $4,100 | $5,900 |
| DeVante Parker | $4,000 | $5,200 |
| Kyle Phillips | $4,000 | $5,500 |
| Nico Collins | $4,000 | $5,400 |
| Zay Jones | $4,000 | $5,400 |
| Ashton Dulin | $3,900 | $5,600 |
| Breshad Perriman | $3,900 | $5,300 |
| Equanimeous St. Brown | $3,900 | $5,500 |
| Randall Cobb | $3,900 | $5,000 |
| Romeo Doubs | $3,800 | $5,300 |
| Scotty Miller | $3,800 | $5,000 |
| Christian Watson | $3,600 | $5,600 |
| Rondale Moore | $3,600 | $5,000 |
| Alec Pierce | $3,500 | $4,600 |
| Van Jefferson | $3,500 | $5,000 |
| Ben Skowronek | $3,400 | $4,900 |
| Demarcus Robinson | $3,400 | $5,200 |
| Parris Campbell | $3,400 | $4,900 |
| Mack Hollins | $3,300 | $5,300 |
Weekly strategy – Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, Davante Adams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Stefon Diggs are my favorite options this week. Stack them with their respective QBs. I would even recommend rostering two of them. Tee Higgins, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Brandin Cooks, Christian Kirk, and Drake London are my money-saving WR2 pivots. For WR3, consider Allen Lazard, Garrett Wilson, and Curtis Samuel. If injuries remain for Indy or Vegas, consider punting with Ashton Dulin or Mack Hollins.
Fantasy Four-pack
Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. DET
($9,300 DK, $9,500 FD)
Detroit has allowed an average of 7-115 to WR1. Meanwhile, Jefferson has had one monster and one so-so game. Still, he has more targets than the rest of the Vikings’ WRs combined. 10-130-1 is a safe figure here as this will be a shootout.
Davante Adams, Raiders @ TEN
($8,400 DK, $8,700 FD)
Arizona stifled Adams last week, but Tennessee will have no chance here. Stefon Diggs absolutely reamed the Titans, and they even made the Giants’ WR room look fantasy-relevant. If Hunter Renfrow (concussion) misses this game, Adams and Mack Hollins will see even more targets making them a great three-legged stack with Derek Carr.
Stefon Diggs, Bills @ MIA
($7,700 DK, $8,300 FD) Diggs has scored a TD in three of four games against Miami since joining the Bills. Unfortunately, his reception and yardage numbers haven’t been huge. Still, the absence of Gabriel Davis (ankle) last week, forced even more targets than usual towards Diggs. If Davis is out again, expect a huge game; otherwise, just expect a big game.
Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions @ MIN
($7,200 DK, $7,800 FD) St. Brown has beasted to start the season. Now, he gets to assault a Minnesota secondary that has already watched multiple WRs scorch their cornerbacks. Plus, Minnesota may be without its top safety. Stack heavily in this game on both sides of the ball.
Garrett Wilson, Jets vs. CIN
($5,400 DK, $6,100 FD) Wilson looks like this season’s Ja’Marr Chase. I am kicking myself that I don’t have more dynasty exposure to him. Fortunately, I can play him all that I want on DFS. Cincy should win this game, but Joe Flacco and Wilson could have value as a punt stack as the Jets are forced to throw to stay in this one.
Curtis Samuel, Commanders vs. PHI
($5,100 DK, $6,300 FD) Until the sites put some respect on Samuel with appropriate pricing, I will keep rolling him out. Philly has two top cornerbacks, but I presume they will be guarding Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson, leaving Samuel to operate underneath and out of the backfield. Lean heavily on the Jalen Hurts-led Eagles’ stacks, using Samuel as a great run-it-back option.
| Tight ends | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Travis Kelce | $7,900 | $7,800 |
| Mark Andrews | $6,900 | $7,700 |
| Darren Waller | $5,800 | $6,400 |
| Taysom Hill | n/a | $6,000 |
| Kyle Pitts | $4,800 | $5,600 |
| Dallas Goedert | $4,700 | $5,500 |
| Zach Ertz | $4,600 | $5,200 |
| Tyler Higbee | $4,500 | $5,700 |
| Gerald Everett | $4,400 | $5,800 |
| Mike Gesicki | $4,300 | $5,400 |
| T.J. Hockenson | $4,200 | $5,500 |
| Dawson Knox | $4,100 | $5,300 |
| Hayden Hurst | $3,900 | $5,100 |
| Tyler Conklin | $3,800 | $5,200 |
| Evan Engram | $3,700 | $5,200 |
| Robert Tonyan | $3,700 | $4,800 |
| Cameron Brate | $3,600 | $4,600 |
| Noah Fant | $3,600 | $4,800 |
| Logan Thomas | $3,500 | $5,400 |
| Cole Kmet | $3,400 | $5,000 |
| Austin Hooper | $3,300 | $4,900 |
| Hunter Henry | $3,200 | $4,800 |
| Irv Smith | $3,400 | $5,000 |
| Mo Alie-Cox | $3,000 | $4,600 |
| Juwan Johnson | $2,900 | $4,800 |
| C.J. Uzomah | $2,800 | $4,500 |
| Ian Thomas | $2,800 | $4,600 |
| Isaiah Likely | $2,800 | $4,500 |
| Will Dissly | $2,800 | $4,500 |
| Adam Trautman | $2,700 | $4,500 |
| Kylen Granson | $2,700 | $4,700 |
| O.J. Howard | $2,700 | $4,700 |
Weekly strategy – Travis Kelce has a super matchup. He should be the clear TE1 this week. If I pay down at WR2, he will be mine. I don’t mind Darren Waller if Hunter Renfrow is out. The same goes for Gerald Everett if Keenan Allen is out. Also consider Dallas Goedert, Tyler Higbee, or Zach Ertz as they have solid matchups. As usual, FD TE pricing is too high at the punt level. So, if you want to punt, use Juwan Johnson, Logan Thomas, or Hayden Hurst on DK only.
Travis Kelce, Chiefs @ IND
($7,900 DK, $7,800 FD)
Indy allowed a big production day to Evan Engram and, in Week 1, gave up two TDs to O.J. Howard. If these two ham-and-eggers can get it done against Indy, what are they gonna do to stop Kelce? We might see 10-125-2 here. If I don’t spend up at WR2, he will be my TE.
Darren Waller, Raiders @ TEN
($5,800 DK, $6,400 FD) If Hunter Renfrow misses this game with his concussion, Waller will see a heavy target volume. Otherwise, I will probably fade him at this price.
Tyler Higbee, Rams @ ARI
($4,500 DK, $5,700 FD) A couple of years back, we regularly attacked a bad Arizona defense against TEs. They improved last season but appear to have fallen apart again. To Arizona’s credit, its opposition has been the best of the best the first two weeks. Still, Higbee may start getting mentioned in that company if he continues to lead the league in TE targets.
Zach Ertz, Cardinals vs. LAR
($4,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
Ertz showed last week that he was fully healthy as he led the Cardinals in targets, receptions, and receiving yards. With continued absences among the Cards’ WRs, expect Ertz to post big numbers repeatedly.
Hayden Hurst, Bengals @ NYJ
($3,900 DK, $5,100 FD)
Hurst remains a great punt option, especially stacked with Joe Burrow and one of his WRs. The Jets have allowed the eighth-most yards to the position, so he should have a safe 3x floor on DK.
Juwan Johnson, Saints @ CAR
($2,900 DK, $4,800 FD)
For two straight games, Johnson has finished third on the Saints in targets. It won’t take much to reach 3x on DK.
Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 2 DFS fantasy football
After a crazy Week 1 of the fantasy football season — highlighted by some dominating plays (Jonathan Taylor, Justin Jefferson, Patrick Mahomes, Carson Wentz, and Curtis Samuel) and some milk cartons (Mike Williams, Austin Hooper, DeVonta Smith, Alvin Kamara, and Cole Kmet) — I am pumped to go back for seconds this weekend. So, let’s get down to it, starting with a triple-dose of Primetime DFS.
CHICAGO @ GREEN BAY
We didn’t get a true read on Justin Fields (QB6) last week thanks to a monsoon. Still, we know his weapons, or lack thereof. The best I can afford him is an outside shot at QB5 if Ryan Tannehill struggles.
Aaron Rodgers (QB4) also struggled last week due to a lack of weapons. If he can get one (or both) of his tackles and top WR, Allen Lazard, back he should make a jump in the right direction. If not, he might spend a lot of time on his back once again.
David Montgomery (RB4) failed to take advantage of the bad weather conditions. He also ceded a score to backup Khalil Herbert (RB10). Fortunately, Montgomery out-touched Herbert 2-1, so there isn’t really a controversy here yet. Green Bay was ground down but that was due to falling behind early. That won’t happen this week. So, don’t assume this is an easy 100-yard day for Montgomery.
A.J. Dillon (RB5) out-touched Aaron Jones (RB3) nearly 2-to-1. He also scored the only TD among the pair. That said, Jones averaged nearly 10 YPC while Dillon finished at 4.5 YPC. The game script should be much different this week for Green Bay. This will put both of these two in play at RB2. I prefer Jones, since we should see more carries than receptions this week.
Chicago’s WR corps was more like a corps(e) Week 1. The weather didn’t help things, but no WR saw more than three targets and none caught more than one pass. Darnell Mooney (WR6) should show out this week as Green Bay’s secondary looks overhyped. Equanimeous St. Brown (WR17) scored last week and gets the revenge game here. Consider him as a WR3/flex play. Byron Pringle (WR20) has more talent than St. Brown, but he and Dante Pettis (WR22) should remain bench-bound.
Allen Lazard (WR8) missed Week 1, but he will be the immediate favorite of Rodgers if he can go. Romeo Doubs (WR14) out-targeted Christian Watson (WR12) last week, but Watson should’ve had a long TD. Watson has more talent, so I like his chance better here. Randall Cobb (WR19) and Sammy Watkins (WR18) did little with their opportunity in Week 1. Neither should be used outside of Showdown at this point.
There was no excuse for Cole Kmet (TE5) posting a goose egg. The weather should’ve helped his cause, but he was targeted only once. Kmet is better than he showed here and Fields targeted him a lot at the end of 2021, so expect a bounce-back game.
Robert Tonyan (TE2) was tied for the second-most targets from Rodgers last week. As one of his few familiars on the field, I was not surprised. I love him this week in an easier matchup.
TENNESSEE @ BUFFALO
Ryan Tannehill (QB5) finished last week with a decent line but now faces an elite defense. The Titans will be playing keep-up, which should provide him many passing opportunities, I just wish he had better weapons.
You could argue that Josh Allen (QB1) is the top QB in all of football. This is why he is my top option here. It also helps that Tennessee has one of the more porous pass defenses among these games.
Derrick Henry (RB2) had a floor game by his standards against New York. He shouldn’t have. Unlike last year, Henry was ignored in the passing game, ceding every target (and two receiving TDs) to Dontrell Hilliard (RB9). This could be a disturbing trend that continues all season. This is a so-so slate for high-end RBs and considering his price, I may ignore Henry.
I have no clue what Buffalo is doing with their backfield, but it worked last week. Devin Singletary (RB7) was effectively carrying the ball while Zack Moss (RB11) was sure-handed through the air. This split may have been even more confusing had James Cook (RB14) not fumbled himself into the doghouse. Consider Singletary as an RB2 candidate, but I don’t trust the other two enough to rely on them.
Speaking of confusing situations, Robert Woods (WR9) was inexplicably ignored in Week 1. At least both rookie WRs, Kyle Phillips (WR13) and Treylon Burks (WR11), were active and efficient. Tennessee will have to throw the ball this week, so all three deserve WR3/flex consideration. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (WR24) can be ignored, barring an injury.
Start all of your Buffalo WRs. Stefon Diggs (WR3) and Gabriel Davis (WR4) can both be considered at WR1 or WR2. Also, consider both Jamison Crowder (WR15) and Isaiah McKenzie (WR10) at WR3. Tennessee’s pass defense is weak enough that all four could score here.
Austin Hooper (TE4) was also ignored by Tannehill this past week. Geoff Swaim (TE7) actually got more love than Hooper. That had to be an aberration. On a weak TE slate, go back to the well with Hooper. He cannot do any worse.
Buffalo also ignored their TE, Dawson Knox (TE6), last week. This team has just too many weapons, and Knox is truly TD-dependent. So I’d only use him on Showdown.
MINNESOTA @ PHILADELPHIA
Kirk Cousins (QB2) was off to a quick start in Week 1 and gets an equally burnable secondary this week. Unfortunately, Cousins has struggled in primetime over the recent past.
Meanwhile, Jalen Hurts (QB3) looked impressive last week both through the air and on the ground. I’m willing to eat crow about his development as a passer. He has many weapons right now, and Minnesota’s secondary is dealing with some injuries. This will be a big game for the youngster.
Dalvin Cook (RB1) had a floor game last week as Minnesota made a concerted effort to pass the ball. I expect a more even split here, and he should eat against a team that was gashed by both D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. Alexander Mattison (RB12) is strictly a handcuff back. He can be ignored outside of Showdown.
Miles Sanders (RB6) looked great last week. He also still was forced to split rushes four ways with Hurts and Kenneth Gainwell (RB8) and Boston Scott (RB13). Unfortunately for Sanders, this is the Philly Way. Running will be harder here against a stout Minnesota run defense. Sanders can be an RB2, but the others can be left to Showdown contests.
Set it and forget it, Justin Jefferson (WR1) will be a lock for 100-1 all season. Adam Thielen (WR5) had a down Week 1, but his historical red-zone usage makes him a great WR2 option if you want access to this offense without paying Jefferson’s price. K.J. Osborn (WR16) also slogged last week. I’d consider him as a punt WR3 for exposure to this game. Jalen Reagor (WR25) gets the revenge game narrative. Unfortunately, that is all he will get this week.
I knew that A.J. Brown (WR2) would command targets but I didn’t imagine DeVonta Smith (WR7) vanishing off of the stat sheet. Minnesota’s secondary is imminently burnable, putting both of them in play here. I just hope that Smith doesn’t turn into Tyler Lockett. Quez Watkins (WR23) and Zach Pascal (WR21) split one target last week. They can be ignored in all formats.
Johnny Mundt (TE8) drew the “start” last week since Irv Smith (TE3) wasn’t ready to go full-go. Smith should be ready for a full workload this week. He makes a nice third leg of a Cousins-Jefferson stack.
Dallas Goedert (TE1) is the strongest play on a very weak primetime TE board. I’m gonna fade him, though, based on price and since Minnesota has been historically strong against the position.
DK Lineup: QB Matt Ryan ($5.9k), RB Joe Mixon ($7.2k), RB Javonte Williams ($6.5k), WR Davante Adams ($8.6k), WR Michael Pittman ($6.7k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.6k), TE Hayden Hurst ($3.6k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($5.1k), DST Cincinnati Bengals ($2.2k)
FD Lineup: QB Matt Ryan ($6.8k), RB Darrell Henderson ($6.2k), RB Javonte Williams ($7.3k), WR Davante Adams ($8.8k), WR Michael Pittman ($7.8k), WR Christian Kirk ($6.5k), TE Hayden Hurst ($5.3k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($6.3k), DST San Francisco 49ers ($4.9k)
FB Lineup: QB Derek Carr ($6.1k), RB Antonio Gibson ($5.4k), RB Javonte Williams ($6.1k), WR Davante Adams ($8.2k), WR Julio Jones ($4.3k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.3k), TE Hayden Hurst ($3.4k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($5.1k), FLEX Joe Mixon ($6.9k)
| Quarterbacks | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Kyler Murray | $7,500 | $8,500 |
| Lamar Jackson | $7,400 | $8,200 |
| Russell Wilson | $7,200 | $7,500 |
| Joe Burrow | $6,600 | $7,900 |
| Tom Brady | $6,400 | $8,000 |
| Matthew Stafford | $6,300 | $7,600 |
| Derek Carr | $6,200 | $7,300 |
| Carson Wentz | $5,800 | $7,400 |
| Trey Lance | $5,700 | $7,500 |
| Marcus Mariota | $5,900 | $7,300 |
| Tua Tagovailoa | $5,600 | $6,800 |
| Jameis Winston | $5,600 | $7,200 |
| Matt Ryan | $5,500 | $6,800 |
| Jacoby Brissett | $5,400 | $6,600 |
| Jared Goff | $5,400 | $6,700 |
| Baker Mayfield | $5,300 | $7,000 |
| Trevor Lawrence | $5,300 | $6,900 |
| Davis Mills | $5,200 | $6,400 |
| Mac Jones | $5,200 | $6,400 |
| Daniel Jones | $5,100 | $7,100 |
| Geno Smith | $5,100 | $6,300 |
| Joe Flacco | $5,100 | $6,400 |
| Cooper Rush | $5,000 | $6,100 |
| Mitch Trubisky | $5,000 | $6,500 |
| Brian Hoyer | $4,800 | $6,400 |
| Taysom Hill | $4,400 | $X,XXX |
Weekly strategy – Russell Wilson had a mediocre Week 1, but this matchup is just too juicy. Kyler Murray and Derek Carr also are great options up top. Carson Wentz has a nice DK price, but he is a bit pricey on FD. Matt Ryan is my favorite play of the week (as long as Michael Pittman plays). Jared Goff and Baker Mayfield could be punt options.
Russell Wilson, Broncos vs. HOU
($7,200 DK, $7,500 FD)
Wilson has no inner storyline to deal with this week. At home, versus a bottom-feeding defense, he should cook. After the end-of-game controversy last week, Wilson will have a mile(high)-length leash this week and 350-3 is easily in sight.
Kyler Murray, Cardinals @ LV ($7,500 DK, $8,500 FD) We expected a high-scoring affair last week. We were half-right. Murray salvaged his day with some garbage time numbers. We could see something similar this week in another potential shootout. Still, expect improvement here as Zach Ertz should be closer to 100%, and Rondale Moore may be back.
Derek Carr, Raiders vs. ARI
($6,200 DK, $7,300 FD) Patrick Mahomes picked this defense to shreds last week including attacking its’ supposed strength in the middle. Davante Adams is better than any WR on the Chiefs roster, making this the premiere stack of the week. Even consider going three-legged with Darren Waller, too.
Lamar Jackson, Ravens vs. MIA
($7,400 DK, $8,200 FD) Highlighting how poor this week’s QB class is, Jackson facing a stingy defense is the projected fourth-highest scorer. The establishment of Devin Duvernay as a legit Option C for this offense should open up more opportunities for Mark Andrews. I don’t love that stack, but it could pay dividends.
Matt Ryan, Colts @ JAX
($5,500 DK, $6,800 FD) Ryan ended up posting a fantasy-friendly line in Week 1, despite his failure to win the game. That sounds very Carson Wentz-esque of him. Speaking of Wentz, he torched this secondary for four scores. Ryan has, at worst, even weapons to that of the Commanders, so expect a floor of 300-3 as long as Michael Pittman (quad) plays.
Carson Wentz, Commanders @ DET
($5,800 DK, $7,400 FD)
For the second week in a row, Wentz gets a cream-puff defense to pick on. I loved the hookup with Curtis Samuel last week and will definitely roll out this pair once again. Just be cautious of using Terry McLaurin against his former college teammate Jeff Okudah, who shut down DeVonta Smith last week.
| Running backs | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Taylor | $9,900 | $10,000 |
| Christian McCaffrey | $8,900 | $9,000 |
| Alvin Kamara | $7,400 | $7,200 |
| Saquon Barkley | $7,300 | $8,800 |
| Joe Mixon |
$7,200 | $8,300 |
| Nick Chubb | $7,100 | $8,500 |
| D’Andre Swift | $7,000 | $8,200 |
| James Conner | $6,900 | $7,600 |
| Leonard Fournette | $6,700 | $7,800 |
| Kareem Hunt | $6,600 | $7,000 |
| Javonte Williams | $6,500 | $7,300 |
| Antonio Gibson | $6,200 | $7,400 |
| Najee Harris | $6,200 | $7,200 |
| Melvin Gordon | $6,100 | $6,000 |
| Cordarrelle Patterson | $6,000 | $7,500 |
| Ezekiel Elliott | $5,900 | $7,100 |
| Josh Jacobs | $5,800 | $6,600 |
| Tony Pollard | $5,800 | $5,700 |
| Darrell Henderson | $5,700 | $6,200 |
| Mark Ingram | $5,700 | $5,300 |
| Cam Akers | $5,600 | $5,500 |
| James Robinson | $5,600 | $6,800 |
| Travis Etienne | $5,600 | $5,800 |
| Damien Harris | $5,500 | $6,000 |
| Jamaal Williams | $5,400 | $6,400 |
| Jaylen Warren | $5,400 | $5,500 |
| Rashaad Penny | $5,400 | $6,500 |
| J.K. Dobbins | $5,300 | $6,000 |
| Nyheim Hines | $5,300 | $5,500 |
| Breece Hall | $5,200 | $5,900 |
| Chase Edmonds | $5,200 | $6,000 |
| J.D. McKissic | $5,200 | $5,200 |
| Michael Carter | $5,200 | $5,900 |
| Rhamondre Stevens | $5,200 | $5,600 |
| Jeff Wilson | $5,100 | $6,300 |
| Kenneth Walker | $5,000 | $5,500 |
| Samaje Perine | $5,000 | $6,000 |
| Tyrion Davis-Price | $5,000 | $5,000 |
| Rex Burkhead | $4,900 | $5,800 |
| Dameon Pierce | $4,800 | $5,600 |
| Tyler Allgeier | $4,600 | $4,600 |
| Rachaad White | $4,500 | $5,700 |
| Raheem Mostert | $4,400 | $5,300 |
| Zamir White | $4,400 | $4,600 |
| Damien Williams | $4,200 | $4,800 |
| Emo Benjamin | $4,200 | $4,900 |
| Jordan Mason | $4,200 | $4,500 |
Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey was not featured in the Carolina gameplan Week 1. They lost. He will be force-fed this week. Do what you can to get two of CMC, Saquon Barkley, Joe Mixon (my personal favorite), Nick Chubb, and, if he plays, D’Andre Swift (ankle) into your lineup. Jonathan Taylor’s matchup is nice, but that price is steep. Javonte Williams and Antonio Gibson are cheaper pivots. The punt options are few and far between. Consider Nyheim Hines, Darrell Henderson, or Jamaal Williams (if Swift cannot go).
Christian McCaffrey, Panthers @ NYG
($8,900 DK, $9,000 FD)
The Giants actually held Derrick Henry somewhat in check last week (nearly 4.0 YPC), but they were eviscerated by Dontrell Hilliard through the air. McCaffrey offers the best of both of them and Carolina needs to feature him this week after a sloppy start to their season.
Jonathan Taylor, Colts @ JAX
($9,900 DK, $10,000 FD) It is always hard to spend this much at RB. He needs to hit 30 points to return 3x value. The matchup suggests it is possible, but I’d rather take my chances with Nyheim Hines here at half the price.
Joe Mixon, Bengals @ DAL
($7,200 DK, $8,300 FD) Cincinnati won’t have to pass the ball to win this week. That is good, because Tee Higgins may not be available for this one. Even if they choose to throw, Higgins’ absence could lead to another nine-target game for Mixon.
D’Andre Swift, Lions vs. WAS
($7,000 DK, $8,200 FD) Swift pummeled Philadelphia to the tune of 175-1. His line might go underappreciated since Jamaal Williams vultured a pair of scores. Washington gave up a total of 134-2 to the pair of Jacksonville RBs, so another 100-1 would be safe for Swift, if he is cleared to go. If Swift misses the game, Williams is a must-start.
Darrell Henderson, Rams vs. ATL
($5,700 DK, $6,200 FD) It was impossible to predict Henderson out-touching Cam Akers 6-to-1. It was also impossible to predict Atlanta limiting Alvin Kamara. Of course, hindsight has proven that injuries were responsible for both situations. Atlanta’s run defense is not this good, and Akers is clearly not 100%. Henderson’s line will surprise no one this week.
Nyheim Hines, Colts @ JAX
($5,300 DK, $5,500 FD)
Despite rumors that Indianapolis would pivot more of Jonathan Taylor’s looks to Hines this season, Taylor still dominated the carries and they split the receiving work. Hines did see six targets, catching them all for 50 yards. Meanwhile, Jacksonville allowed 10-92 to Washington’s RBs through the air. At half of Taylor’s salary, Hines provides you access to this offense and opens up the ability to spend up at both RB1 and WR1.
| Wide receivers | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Cooper Kupp | $9,900 | $9,700 |
| Davante Adams | $8,600 | $8,800 |
| Ja’Marr Chase | $8,000 | $8,700 |
| Deebo Samuel | $7,100 | $8,000 |
| Tyreek Hill | $7,100 | $8,000 |
| CeeDee Lamb | $6,900 | $7,700 |
| Mike Evans | $6,800 | $8,300 |
| Michael Pittman | $6,700 | $7,800 |
| Terry McLaurin | $6,600 | $7,300 |
| Amon-Ra St. Brown | $6,500 | $6,900 |
| Jaylen Waddle | $6,400 | $7,200 |
| DK Metcalf | $6,300 | $6,800 |
| Marquise Brown | $6,200 | $7,400 |
| Courtland Sutton | $6,100 | $6,800 |
| Brandin Cooks | $6,000 | $6,700 |
| Tee Higgins | $5,900 | $7,000 |
| Diontae Johnson | $5,800 | $7,100 |
| Michael Thomas | $5,800 | $7,000 |
| Christian Kirk | $5,700 | $6,500 |
| DJ Moore | $5,700 | $6,200 |
| Jerry Jeudy | $5,600 | $6,300 |
| Tyler Lockett | $5,600 | $6,200 |
| Allen Robinson | $5,500 | $5,700 |
| Hunter Renfrow | $5,500 | $5,600 |
| Julio Jones | $5,500 | $5,700 |
| Rashod Bateman | $5,500 | $6,400 |
| Amari Cooper | $5,400 | $6,300 |
| Tyler Boyd | $5,400 | $6,600 |
| Robbie Anderson | $5,300 | $5,900 |
| Drake London | $5,200 | $5,600 |
| Michael Gallup | $5,200 | $6,000 |
| Brandon Aiyuk | $5,100 | $5,700 |
| DJ Chark | $5,100 | $5,700 |
| Elijah Moore | $5,000 | $5,800 |
| Jarvis Landry | $5,000 | $6,100 |
| Sterling Shepard | $4,900 | $5,800 |
| Russell Gage | $4,800 | $6,100 |
| Chase Claypool | $4,700 | $6,000 |
| Corey Davis | $4,600 | $5,900 |
| Curtis Samuel | $4,600 | $5,700 |
| Chris Olave | $4,500 | $5,300 |
| DeVante Parker | $4,500 | $5,500 |
| Jalen Tolbert | $4,500 | $5,000 |
| Donovan Peoples-Jones | $4,400 | $5,800 |
| Garrett Wilson | $4,400 | $5,400 |
| Jakobi Meyers | $4,400 | $5,500 |
| Marvin Jones | $4,400 | $5,400 |
| A.J. Green | $4,300 | $5,400 |
| Devin Duvernay | $4,300 | $5,900 |
| Zay Jones | $4,300 | $5,500 |
| Jahan Dotson | $4,200 | $5,500 |
| Kadarius Toney | $4,200 | $5,100 |
| Kenny Golladay | $4,200 | $5,400 |
| Olamide Zaccheaus | $4,200 | $5,400 |
| Nico Collins | $4,100 | $5,100 |
| Rondale Moore | $4,100 | $5,300 |
| Kendrick Bourne | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| Bryan Edwards | $3,900 | $4,800 |
| KJ Hamler | $3,900 | $5,100 |
| Darius Slayton | $3,800 | $5,000 |
| D’Wayne Eskridge | $3,800 | $5,000 |
| Noah Brown | $3,800 | $5,200 |
| Cedrick Wilson | $3,700 | $5,100 |
| Parris Campbell | $3,700 | $5,100 |
| George Pickens | $3,600 | $5,000 |
| Marquise Goodwin | $3,600 | $4,700 |
| Nelson Agholor | $3,600 | $5,100 |
| David Bell | $3,500 | $4,800 |
| Greg Dortch | $3,500 | $5,500 |
| Van Jefferson | $3,500 | $5,000 |
| Jauan Jennings | $3,400 | $5,300 |
| Alec Pierce | $3,300 | $4,800 |
| Ben Skowronek | $3,300 | $5,100 |
| Demarcus Robinson | $3,300 | $5,100 |
| Laviska Shenault | $3,300 | $4,700 |
| Mike Thomas | $3,300 | $5,300 |
| Ashton Dulin | $3,200 | $5,200 |
| Breshad Perriman | $3,200 | $4,700 |
| Richie James | $3,200 | $5,500 |
Weekly strategy – Davante Adams is the top pick this week. I love him stacked with Derek Carr. Cooper Kupp is pricier, but he could approach similar output. One of the two should be your WR1. Michael Pittman (quad), Marquise Brown, Deebo Samuel, and Courtland Sutton are my pivots. At WR2, consider Hunter Renfrow, Julio Jones (knee), DJ Moore, and Christian Kirk. Curtis Samuel remains my favorite WR3 option. If you don’t use him, consider Jarvis Landry, Zay Jones, Donovan Peoples-Jones, DJ Chark, or Greg Dortch. I’d also consider using one of them at flex.
Fantasy Four-pack
Davante Adams, Raiders vs. ARI
($8,600 DK, $8,800 FD)
Adams and Derek Carr are my favorite stack this week. Arizona had no answer for Kansas City last week, and Adams has more talent than anyone who lined up at WR for the Chiefs … 10-125-1 is the floor here.
Cooper Kupp, Rams vs. ATL
($9,900 DK, $9,700 FD)
If you can figure out how to fit both Kupp and Adams under the cap, do it. Atlanta has a decent defensive backfield, but they gave up two scores to New Orleans’ alpha WR Michael Thomas last week. I am a tad concerned about his price, but he has topped 30 points many times before.
Deebo Samuel, 49ers vs. SEA
($7,100 DK, $8,000 FD) The loss of Eli Mitchell forced Samuel to garner more RB snaps last week. Last year, in a similar spot, Samuel feasted out of the backfield. Seattle is just okay against the pass, but they are rotten at stopping receiving backs. I’m stoked for Samuel’s stats if he gets an equal share of backfield snaps and receptions.
Michael Pittman, Colts @ JAX
($6,700 DK, $7,800 FD) Pittman (quad) was limited in practice midweek, but he should be good to go for Sunday. Pittman’s activity will affect my decision whether to start Matt Ryan or not. They make a perfect reduced-cost stack against a subpar secondary.
Curtis Samuel, Commanders @ DET
($4,600 DK, $5,700 FD) People forgot about Samuel due to his injuries last season. He was brought in by Ron Rivera to revive his jack-of-all-trades role from their days together in Carolina. He showed out in Week 1 and with both Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson to keep defenses honest; Samuel should find lots of room to operate inside.
DJ Chark, Lions vs. WAS
($5,100 DK, $5,700 FD) I love run-it-back stacks. You can go either way in this game. Jared Goff or Carson Wentz paired with Chark and Samuel at WR2 & WR3 allows you the savings to use big bucks RBs or Kupp and Adams at WR1 and flex.
| Tight ends | DraftKings | FanDuel |
|---|---|---|
| Mark Andrews | $6,400 | $7,400 |
| George Kittle | $5,900 | $6,100 |
| Darren Waller | $5,600 | $6,800 |
| Taysom Hill | $X,XXX | $6,200 |
| Kyle Pitts | $5,400 | $5,900 |
| Dalton Schultz | $5,200 | $5,600 |
| T.J. Hockenson | $4,700 | $5,700 |
| Zach Ertz | $4,500 | $5,200 |
| Pat Freiermuth | $4,400 | $5,400 |
| Mike Gesicki | $4,300 | $5,200 |
| Tyler Higbee | $4,200 | $5,300 |
| Noah Fant | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| Cameron Brate | $3,900 | $4,900 |
| Albert Okwuegbunam | $3,700 | $5,100 |
| David Njoku | $3,700 | $4,900 |
| Evan Engram | $3,600 | $4,900 |
| Hayden Hurst | $3,600 | $5,300 |
| Hunter Henry | $3,600 | $5,100 |
| Logan Thomas | $3,400 | $5,200 |
| Tyler Conklin | $3,400 | $5,100 |
| C.J. Uzomah | $3,200 | $4,600 |
| Jonnu Smith | $3,200 | $4,700 |
| Mo Alie-Cox | $3,200 | $4,800 |
| Harrison Bryant | $3,100 | $4,700 |
| Ian Thomas | $3,100 | $4,600 |
| Adam Trautman | $3,000 | $4,600 |
| O.J. Howard | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Tyler Kroft | $2,800 | $4,300 |
| Will Dissly | $2,800 | $4,200 |
| Brevin Jordan | $2,600 | $4,700 |
| Andrew Beck | $2,500 | $4,000 |
| Colby Parkinson | $2,500 | $4,100 |
| Juwan Johnson | $2,500 | $4,500 |
Weekly strategy – Mark Andrews has a decent matchup and his DK price is workable. Darren Waller is a little cheaper and his game projects as more of a shootout. If you are feeling a little froggy, consider Kyle Pitts or Dalton Schultz. Neither should have high ownership rates and each could outproduce their salaries. T.J Hockenson, Tyler Higbee, and Zach Ertz make even cheaper pivots. Hayden Hurst is my favorite play (especially if Tee Higgins is out). The other punt options are Logan Thomas and O.J. Howard (who will be too heavily owned).
Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. MIA
($6,400 DK, $7,400 FD)
Xavien Howard will likely be asked to cover Rashod Bateman. That will leave Andrews and Devin Duvernay as the best stack options with Lamar Jackson. A vanilla Week 1 by Andrews keeps his salary low for one more week take advantage of it.
Darren Waller, Raiders vs. ARI
($5,600 DK, $6,800 FD)
This is a weak week for main slate TEs. Still, elite TE, Travis Kelce, took Arizona to the woodshed last week, and Waller is one of the few who are close to the same stratosphere as Kelce.
Kyle Pitts, Falcons @ LAR
($5,400 DK, $5,900 FD) This is another ranking based more on the player’s talent than the matchup. Pitts had an awful final line, but he was targeted seven times. Expect a better output as Pitts gets more comfortable with Marcus Mariota.
T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. WAS
($4,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
Finally, a good matchup to go along with a talented athlete. Hockenson makes a nice third leg to a Jared Goff-DJ Chark stack in what could be a sneaky shootout.
Hayden Hurst, Bengals @ DAL
($3,600 DK, $5,300 FD)
The eight targets recorded by Hurst last week were fifth among all TEs. If Tee Higgins misses another game, expect a similar workload here.
Logan Thomas, Commanders @ DET
($3,400 DK, $5,200 FD)
Thomas finished Week 1 tied for 11th in TE targets with six. Not bad for a guy coming off an ACL tear. As mentioned above, this game could be a shootout, and Thomas adds another potential third leg to a stack.
