Tag: fantasy football Week 9 WDIS

Fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em: Week 9

Check out these players to avoid and lock in for Week 9.

We’re hurtling into Week 9 weekend action in the NFL, and we have a return to the byes. We lose the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers to byes, and if any team needed a rest, it’s the 49ers. The injuries have been brutal for the defending NFC champs.

We won’t have any overseas games this week, but — spoiler alert — we have another one next week.

We have four divisional games on the schedule this week, and the good news is that the weather should be rather nice all across the NFL. However, in one of the more anticipated divisional games between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers, the forecast calls for inclement weather. We’ll get temperatures in the low 50s with a 90% chance of rain with winds whipping up at 12-16 mph.

With QB Jordan Love nursing a groin injury, it might be in the team’s best interest in not risk having their franchise quarterback from aggravating his injury on a slippery field, perhaps costing him additional time. If he is out, that affects the fantasy value of the team’s receivers, while perhaps boosting the value of RB Josh Jacobs.

In Week 9, we’ll see another wideout make a team debut, as the Baltimore Ravens traded for WR Diontae Johnson, freeing him from the disaster that is the Carolina Panthers.

Feel free to ask any specific start/sit questions via X, formerly Twitter, (@danieledobish), or check out our start/bench list for Week 9:

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 9

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 9 DFS fantasy football.

In-game injuries are the scourge of DFS players. Last week, Jordan Mason (shoulder) and Jordan Love (groin) torpedoed several lineups with early exits. There isn’t a solution for when this happens; all you can do is ensure that your lineups have some variance. Also, with several key injuries in effect for Week 9, don’t assume that more volume will equal more points. Sometimes the exact opposite occurs.

Recommended DFS lineups

*Note: FanDuel and Fanball include the Sunday night game on their Main Slate. DraftKings doesn’t include them, so the pricing is listed as N/A.

DK Lineup: QB Bo Nix ($5.9k), RB Alvin Kamara ($7.8k), RB Bijan Robinson ($7.4k), WR Courtland Sutton ($5.4k), WR Romeo Doubs ($5.7k), WR Cedric Tillman ($4.3k), TE Taysom Hill ($3.8k), FLEX D’Andre Swift ($6.4k), DST Philadelphia Eagles ($3.1k)

FD Lineup: QB Kirk Cousins ($7.5k), RB Alvin Kamara ($8.8k), RB Chuba Hubbard ($6.9k), WR Josh Downs ($6.9k), WR Ladd McConkey ($6.4k), WR Courtland Sutton ($6.0k), TE Kyle Pitts ($6.0K), FLEX D’Andre Swift ($7.2k), DST Cincinnati Bengals ($4.0k)

FB Lineup: QB Jalen Hurts ($7.3k), RB Kyren Williams ($7.6k) RB Alvin Kamara ($7.4k), WR DeVonta Smith ($6.3k), WR Courtland Sutton ($5.0k), WR/TE Josh Downs ($4.6k), TE Kyle Pitts ($4.6k), FLEX D’Andre Swift ($6.4k), SUPERFLEX Joe Flacco ($5.6k)

*Note: Player salaries are color-coded based on expected output. Red = Less than 2.5x value, Black = 2.5x value, Green = Greater than 3x value.

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Lamar Jackson $8,000 $8,900
Jalen Hurts $7,800 $9,300
Josh Allen $7,700 $9,000
Jayden Daniels $7,500 $8,700
Jordan Love $7,000 $8,400
Joe Burrow $6,900 $7,900
Kyler Murray $6,600 $7,700
Jared Goff $6,500 $8,000
Kirk Cousins $6,400 $7,500
Sam Darnold N/A $7,500
Dak Prescott $6,300 $8,100
Tua Tagovailoa $6,200 $7,300
Caleb Williams $6,100 $7,200
Bo Nix $5,900 $7,200
Geno Smith $5,800 $7,400
Matthew Stafford $5,700 $7,600
Derek Carr $5,600 $7,000
Trevor Lawrence $5,600 $7,400
Joe Flacco N/A $7,000
Drake Maye $5,500 $6,900
Malik Willis $5,500 $6,900
Jameis Winston $5,400 $7,000
Justin Herbert $5,300 $7,100
Daniel Jones $5,200 $6,600
Jake Haener $5,100 $6,800
Spencer Rattler $5,100 $6,800
Jacoby Brissett $5,000 $6,500
Mason Rudolph $4,600 $6,700
Will Levis $4,600 $6,700
Gardner Minshew II $4,500 $6,600
Bryce Young $4,400 $6,500

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Jalen Hurts is the straightforward choice. Lamar Jackson (back/knee) has a tougher matchup, but his rushing ability keeps him in play. A healthy Jordan Love (groin) would best them both. To save money, pivot to Kirk Cousins, Caleb Williams, Dak Prescott, or Joe Flacco. The punt choices are Bo Nix, Justin Herbert, and Matthew Stafford.

Fantasy four-pack

Jalen Hurts, Eagles vs. JAX ($7,800 DK, $9,300 FD) Hurts leads all QBs in rushing TDs (including five in the last two weeks). Jacksonville is bottom-half against rushing QBs and bottom-two against passing QBs. Hurts should score both ways this week. 

Lamar Jackson, Ravens vs. DEN ($8,000 DK, $8,900 FD) Jackson (back/knee) ranks second among QBs in total TDs, but this will be a tough matchup against an elite coverage unit. Still, Denver hasn’t been tested by a rushing QB since Week 2. If his knee issue doesn’t limit him, 240-2 and 60-1 are in play.

Jordan Love, Packers vs. DET ($7,000 DK, $8,400 FD) Love (groin) is fighting an injury that forced him out of Week 8. Still, he expects to play this week. Detroit is much worse against the pass than the run, and this game is going to be a shootout. So build a QB stack with at least one Detroit WR/TE as well.

Kirk Cousins, Falcons vs. DAL ($6,400 DK, $7,500 FD) Dallas’ defense has allowed the second-most points per game to their opposition, including 94 total over their last three games. Meanwhile, Cousins has only six passing TDs in the six games against non-Tampa Bay opponents. Still, this feels like a keep-right game for him.

Sleepers

Bo Nix, Broncos @ BAL ($5,900 DK, $7,200 FD) Baltimore has allowed the most passing yards and the most passing TDs this season (including 13 over the last four games), plus their secondary has dealt with injuries to their top two corners. Since Week 5, Nix has looked solid, ranking fourth in QB points per game.

Matthew Stafford, Rams @ SEA ($5,700 DK, $7,600 FD) All Stafford needed was to get his two All-Pro WRs back. He threw for more TDs last week than he had the rest of the season combined. Seattle has allowed multiple TDs in four of their last five games. Even if Puka Nacua (knee) cannot go this weekend, more of the same is coming here.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Derrick Henry $8,300 $9,000
Saquon Barkley $8,200 $9,400
Kyren Williams $8,000 $8,900
Alvin Kamara $7,800 $8,800
Jahmyr Gibbs $7,600 $8,600
Bijan Robinson $7,400 $8,500
Jonathan Taylor N/A $8,200
Kenneth Walker III $7,300 $8,000
James Cook $7,200 $7,900
Aaron Jones N/A $7,500
J.K. Dobbins $7,000 $7,100
Josh Jacobs $6,900 $7,400
Tony Pollard $6,800 $7,300
De’Von Achane $6,700 $7,800
James Conner $6,600 $7,700
Chuba Hubbard $6,500 $6,900
David Montgomery $6,500 $8,100
D’Andre Swift $6,400 $7,200
Brian Robinson Jr. $6,300 $7,600
Rhamondre Stevenson $6,300 $6,800
Javonte Williams $6,200 $6,000
Tank Bigsby $6,200 $6,700
Devin Singletary $6,100 $6,100
Raheem Mostert $6,000 $6,400
Rico Dowdle $6,000 $6,000
Chase Brown $5,900 $6,300
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,900 $7,000
Nick Chubb $5,800 $6,500
Alexander Mattison $5,700 $5,900
Zack Moss $5,600 $5,800
Tyrone Tracy Jr. $5,500 $6,200
Ezekiel Elliott $5,400 $5,700
Zach Charbonnet $5,400 $5,400
Austin Ekeler $5,300 $5,500
Justice Hill $5,200 $5,300
Ray Davis $5,200 $5,500
Antonio Gibson $5,100 $5,400
Roschon Johnson $4,900 $5,300
Tyler Allgeier $4,900 $5,600
Dalvin Cook $4,800 $5,300
Jerome Ford $4,800 $5,500
D’Ernest Johnson $4,700 $5,000
Ty Chandler N/A $5,000
Jaleel McLaughlin $4,700 $5,200
Tyjae Spears $4,700 $5,400
Kendre Miller $4,600 $4,800
Miles Sanders $4,500 $5,100
Blake Corum $4,400 $4,700
Zamir White $4,400 $4,900
D’Onta Foreman $4,300 $5,100
Emanuel Wilson $4,300 $4,800

Running back

Weekly strategy – Saquon Barkley, Alvin Kamara (hand/rib), and Kyren Williams all have juicy matchups. Unfortunately, their lofty prices make it hard to roster two of them. Derrick Henry is always an option, but the other three have better matchups. For a pivot, consider Bijan Robinson or James Cook. At RB2, choose between Tony Pollard (foot), Chuba Hubbard, De’Von Achane, and D’Andre Swift. Sleepers are few this week. Tyrone Tracy Jr. (concussion) would be an elite play if he can clear the concussion protocol. Chase Brown and Nick Chubb are the only other names to consider.

Fantasy four-pack

Alvin Kamara, Saints @ CAR ($7,800 DK, $8,800 FD) Carolina improved their season numbers by allowing only 140-1 to the Denver RB room. For the rest of the season, they have allowed an average of 161-2 to RBs. Kamara will do damage both on the ground and through the air. My biggest concern here is the looming Taysom Hill vulture.

Kyren Williams, Rams @ SEA ($8,200 DK, $8,900 FD) Over the last four games, Seattle has allowed an average of 194 combo yards to opposing RBs. Williams has topped the century mark in four of his last five starts, and he has scored at least once in every game this year. Anything short of 100-1 seems like a misprint.

Saquon Barkley, Eagles vs. JAX ($8,200 DK, $9,400 FD) Watching Jalen Hurts vulture all the TDs is hard on Barkley owners. Still, he has topped 100 combo yards in every game but one. Only two teams allow more points per game, so Barkley should get in on the scoring fun this week.

Bijan Robinson, Falcons vs. DAL ($7,400 DK, $8,500 FD) Robinson has topped 100 combo yards each of the last three weeks. Over their last three contests, Dallas has allowed 166.3 rushing yards per game (over five yards per carry).

Sleepers

D’Andre Swift, Bears @ ARI ($6,400 DK, $7,200 FD) Since Week 4, among RBs, only Derrick Henry has more total yards. This is impressive since this stretch includes the Bears’ bye week. 

Chuba Hubbard, Panthers vs. NO ($6,500 DK, $6,900 FD) Jonathan Brooks (knee) may finally return this week. It won’t matter as over the last four weeks, New Orleans has allowed 709 combo yards and seven TDs to the position. 

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
Justin Jefferson N/A $9,200
CeeDee Lamb $8,800 $9,100
Ja’Marr Chase $8,600 $9,500
A.J. Brown $8,100 $9,000
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,900 $8,600
Cooper Kupp $7,700 $8,200
Malik Nabers $7,500 $8,400
Tyreek Hill $7,300 $8,500
Puka Nacua $7,200 $8,100
Terry McLaurin $7,100 $7,400
Zay Flowers $7,000 $7,200
Marvin Harrison Jr. $6,900 $7,000
DeVonta Smith $6,800 $7,800
Drake London $6,700 $7,900
Brian Thomas Jr. $6,600 $7,000
Josh Downs N/A $6,900
DJ Moore $6,500 $6,600
DK Metcalf $6,500 $8,000
Jayden Reed $6,400 $7,300
Tee Higgins $6,400 $7,500
Diontae Johnson $6,300 $6,700
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $6,200 $6,500
Chris Olave $6,100 $7,100
Darnell Mooney $6,000 $6,700
Jordan Addison N/A $6,200
Khalil Shakir $5,900 $6,100
Amari Cooper $5,800 $6,800
Wan’Dale Robinson $5,800 $5,800
Calvin Ridley $5,700 $6,200
Romeo Doubs $5,700 $6,300
Ladd McConkey $5,600 $6,400
Tyler Lockett $5,600 $6,200
Jaylen Waddle $5,500 $6,200
Keenan Allen $5,500 $6,000
Courtland Sutton $5,400 $6,000
Keon Coleman $5,400 $6,000
Jakobi Meyers $5,300 $6,300
Michael Pittman Jr. N/A $5,800
Xavier Legette $5,300 $5,700
Dontayvion Wicks $5,200 $5,300
Jalen Tolbert $5,100 $5,900
Jerry Jeudy $5,100 $6,000
Brandin Cooks $5,000 $4,900
Christian Watson $5,000 $5,600
Gabe Davis $5,000 $5,700
Michael Wilson $4,900 $5,600
Rome Odunze $4,900 $5,500
Darius Slayton $4,800 $5,600
Adam Thielen $4,700 $4,900
Tutu Atwell $4,700 $4,800
Joshua Palmer $4,600 $5,700
Alec Pierce N/A $5,200
Jalen Nailor N/A $5,100
DeMario Douglas $4,400 $5,000
Quentin Johnston $4,400 $5,600
Cedric Tillman $4,300 $6,100
Tre Tucker $4,300 $5,500
Elijah Moore $4,200 $5,500
Rashod Bateman $4,200 $5,500
Adonai Mitchell N/A $4,900
Cedrick Wilson Jr. $4,100 $4,800
Mason Tipton $4,000 $5,400
Ray-Ray McCloud III $4,300 $5,400
Jahan Dotson $4,200 $4,700
Mike Williams $4,200 $4,800
Mason Tipton $4,100 $5,600
Nelson Agholor $4,000 $5,400
Noah Brown $4,000 $4,800
Troy Franklin $4,000 $4,800
Andrei Iosivas $3,900 $5,300
DJ Turner $3,900 $5,200
Jahan Dotson $3,900 $4,700
Kalif Raymond $3,900 $4,900
Curtis Samuel $3,800 $4,800
Ray-Ray McCloud III $3,800 $4,700
KaVontae Turpin $3,700 $5,400
Kayshon Boutte $3,700 $4,800
Tyler Boyd $3,700 $4,800
Devaughn Vele $3,600 $4,800
Jalen Coker $3,600 $4,800
Parker Washington $3,600 $5,400
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $3,500 $5,200
Odell Beckham Jr. $3,500 $4,600
Tim Patrick $3,500 $4,700
Ja’Lynn Polk $3,400 $4,600
Olamide Zaccheaus $3,400 $4,800
Kendrick Bourne $3,300 $4,800
Jonathan Mingo $3,200 $4,900
K.J. Osborn $3,200 $4,800
Lil’Jordan Humphrey $3,200 $4,700
Jermaine Burton $3,100 $4,900
Mack Hollins $3,100 $4,800
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $3,100 $4,000
Marvin Mims Jr. $3,100 $4,300

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – This week feels like the week to spend more elsewhere and save here. If you must spend up at WR1, use Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, or CeeDee Lamb. I’d rather use Cooper Kupp, DeVonta Smith, or Drake London. Josh Downs (toe) and Michael Pittman (back) make great WR2 options on FD & FB. Otherwise, use Jayden Reed, Chris Olave (if Derek Carr (oblique) plays), Romeo Doubs, or Darnell Mooney. Courtland Sutton must be on your roster at WR3 or Flex. If you want to fade the obvious chalk, take a shot on Xavier Legette or Ladd McConkey instead. The Browns matchup is nowhere near as exceptional as last week, but Cedric Tillman and Elijah Moore are cheap enough that they make great punt options. Kalif Raymond, Parker Washington, and Jalen Coker fit the bill as well.

Fantasy four-pack

A.J. Brown, Eagles vs. JAX ($8,100 DK, $9,000 FD) Jacksonville ranks bottom-five in WR receptions, receiving yards, and receiving TDs. On the year, Brown has scored in three of four games and is averaging over 100 receiving yards per game. 5-100-1 feels like his floor here.

CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys @ ATL ($8,800, $9,100 FD) Disregarding last week against the makeshift Tampa Bay WR corps, Atlanta has allowed an average of 20.3 PPR points to opposing WR1s this season. Meanwhile, Lamb is coming off his best game of the season (13-146-2) and has 31 targets over his last two games. 

Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. IND (N/A, $9,200 FD) Jefferson ranks second among WRs in receiving yards, but he has scored only once in his last three games. The return of T.J. Hockenson may ding his target share this week, but in an assumed shootout, he will get back in the end zone.

Cooper Kupp, Rams @ SEA ($7,700 DK, $8,200 FD) It didn’t take long for Matthew Stafford to rekindle his affections for Kupp and Puka Nacua (knee). They combined for 12-157-1 on 17 targets. Now, Nacua aggravated his knee injury, so this may all go to Kupp this weekend. Seattle has faced only four “stud” WRs this year, but three of the four have scored. The one exception was Tyreek Hill with Skylar Thompson and Tim Boyle at QB.

Sleepers

Courtland Sutton, Broncos @ BAL ($5,400 DK, $6,000 FD) Sutton ranks 18th overall in targets this season. Unfortunately, with Bo Nix learning on the job, he has only 29 receptions to show for it. That said, the learning curve is reaching its apex as Sutton has topped 15 PPR points in three of his last four starts. Baltimore ranks dead last in yardage and TDs allowed to the position, so the combo should continue to eat here.

Romeo Doubs, Packers vs. DET ($5,700 DK, $6,300 FD) Assuming that Jordan Love (groin) plays, this game will be a shootout. Since their bye, Doubs has led the Packers in every receiving category. He is a must-start here as Detroit has allowed at least 16 PPR points to each WR1 they have faced over their last five games.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
Brock Bowers $6,000 $7,700
Trey McBride $5,800 $6,800
David Njoku $5,500 $7,000
Evan Engram $5,300 $6,400
Jake Ferguson $5,100 $6,500
Dalton Kincaid $5,000 $6,200
Kyle Pitts $4,900 $6,000
Sam LaPorta $4,800 $6,300
Tucker Kraft $4,600 $6,100
Dallas Goedert $4,500 $6,000
T.J. Hockenson N/A $5,600
Cole Kmet $4,400 $5,200
Zach Ertz $4,300 $5,300
Mark Andrews $4,200 $5,800
Isaiah Likely $4,100 $5,700
Hunter Henry $3,900 $5,500
Taysom Hill $3,800 $5,900
Colby Parkinson $3,700 $5,000
Noah Fant $3,600 $5,100
Jonnu Smith $3,500 $5,400
Grant Calcaterra $3,400 $5,200
Juwan Johnson $3,200 $5,300
Mike Gesicki $3,100 $5,400
Will Dissly $3,100 $4,800
Adam Trautman $3,000 $4,400
Chig Okonkwo $3,000 $4,800
Dawson Knox $3,000 $4,000
Ja’Tavion Sanders $2,900 $5,000
Foster Moreau $2,800 $4,600
Lucas Krull $2,700 $4,700
Theo Johnson $2,700 $4,900

Tight end

Weekly strategy – David Njoku and Kyle Pitts are the top options this week. Brock Bowers and Trey McBride are both more expensive and face stiffer competition. Evan Engram could see a volume boost because of injuries. Mark Andrews, Taysom Hill, Noah Fant, Mike Gesicki, and Hunter Henry have favorable matchups for less money. For a deep punt, use Ja’Tavion Sanders or Theo Johnson.

Fantasy four-pack

David Njoku, Browns vs. LAC ($5,500 DK, $7,000 FD) Over the last two games (coinciding with the elevation of Jameis Winston) Njoku has posted 15-137-2 on 21 targets. Los Angeles has faced only three elite TEs this year, and all have reached double-digit PPR points.

Kyle Pitts, Falcons vs. DAL ($4,900 DK, $6,000 FD) Over his last four games, Pitts is averaging 5.2-79-0.5. Meanwhile, Dallas has allowed four TE scores over the last three weeks.

Brock Bowers, Raiders @ CIN ($6,000 DK, $7,700 FD) Bowers leads the entire NFL universe in receptions. It helps that he has hauled in 80% of his 65 targets. This sets up nicely as Cincy ranks bottom-seven in every TE receiving category.

Trey McBride, Cardinals vs. CHI ($5,800 DK, $6,800 FD) McBride still hasn’t scored, but he is coming off his best game of the year. He also ranks second in TE receptions and targets, as well as third in TE receiving yards. Over the last two weeks, Chicago has allowed 19-210 to the position.

Sleepers

Taysom Hill, Saints @ CAR ($3,800 DK, $5,900 FD) Carolina has allowed the most passing TDs to opposing QBs, the most rushing TDs to opposing RBs, and the most receiving TDs to opposing TEs. Hill may very well score all three ways this weekend.

Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. DEN ($4,200 DK, $5,800 FD) Andrews has four TDs in the last three games. Denver has been truly tested by the position only once this year. They failed that test (8-97-1) versus Brock Bowers.

Fantasy football start/bench list: Week 9

Check out where your roster options fit into our Week 9 start/bench tiers.

Player analysis and projections can be found in our Start/Bench Tool customized to your myHuddle league scoring and rosters. All player listings by groups are in no particular order.

Key: Upgrade / Downgrade

QUARTERBACKS WIDE RECEIVERS
BEST BETS Opp BEST BETS Opp
Sam Darnold IND Justin Jefferson IND
Jalen Hurts JAC Cooper Kupp @SEA
GREAT STARTS Opp Ja’Marr Chase LVR
Matthew Stafford @SEA GREAT STARTS Opp
Jayden Daniels @NYG Courtland Sutton @BAL
Joe Flacco @MIN A.J. Brown JAC
SOLID STARTERS Opp M. Pittman Jr. @MIN
Kyler Murray CHI Terry McLaurin @NYG
Patrick Mahomes TB Chris Olave @CAR
Lamar Jackson DEN CeeDee Lamb @ATL
Josh Allen MIA SOLID STARTERS Opp
Joe Burrow LVR Puka Nacua @SEA
Baker Mayfield @KC Garrett Wilson HOU
Kirk Cousins DAL Romeo Doubs DET
Jared Goff @GB Jakobi Meyers @CIN
Dak Prescott @ATL DeVonta Smith JAC
FRINGE FANTASY PLAYS Opp Davante Adams HOU
Bo Nix @BAL M. Harrison Jr. CHI
Jameis Winston LAC Josh Downs @MIN
Tua Tagovailoa @BUF Drake London DAL
C.J. Stroud @NYJ A. St. Brown @GB
Justin Herbert @CLE Xavier Worthy TB
Malik Willis DET DJ Moore @ARI
Geno Smith LAR Malik Nabers WAS
Aaron Rodgers HOU Calvin Ridley NE
Caleb Williams @ARI FRINGE FANTASY PLAYS Opp
Derek Carr @CAR Michael Wilson CHI
SIT ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM Opp Kalif Raymond @GB
Mason Rudolph NE Jerry Jeudy LAC
Bryce Young NO Darnell Mooney DAL
Trevor Lawrence @PHI Jayden Reed DET
Daniel Jones WAS Jordan Addison IND
Jacoby Brissett @TEN DeAndre Hopkins TB
Jordan Love DET Keenan Allen @ARI
Drake Maye @TEN Jaylen Waddle @BUF
Gardner Minshew @CIN Jalen Tolbert @ATL
RUNNING BACKS Tyler Boyd NE
BEST BETS Opp Zay Flowers DEN
Saquon Barkley JAC Khalil Shakir MIA
Aaron Jones IND Tyreek Hill @BUF
Alvin Kamara @CAR Wan’Dale Robinson WAS
GREAT STARTS Opp Ladd McConkey @CLE
Kyren Williams @SEA Tyler Lockett LAR
Kenneth Walker III LAR Cedric Tillman LAC
Joe Mixon @NYJ J. Smith-Njigba LAR
D’Andre Swift @ARI Christian Watson DET
De’Von Achane @BUF Xavier Legette NO
Bijan Robinson DAL Alec Pierce @MIN
Tony Pollard NE N. Westbrook-Ikhine NE
SOLID STARTERS Opp Amari Cooper MIA
Breece Hall HOU Joshua Palmer @CLE
David Montgomery @GB Elijah Moore LAC
Rachaad White @KC Tank Dell @NYJ
Jahmyr Gibbs @GB SIT ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM Opp
Kareem Hunt TB Tre Tucker @CIN
Rhamondre Stevenson @TEN DeMario Douglas @TEN
Jonathan Taylor @MIN Dontayvion Wicks DET
Josh Jacobs DET Keon Coleman MIA
Brian Robinson Jr. @NYG Cedrick Wilson @CAR
James Cook MIA Allen Lazard HOU
Derrick Henry DEN DK Metcalf LAR
FRINGE FANTASY PLAYS Opp Diontae Johnson DEN
Tank Bigsby @PHI Tee Higgins LVR
Austin Ekeler @NYG Gabe Davis @PHI
James Conner CHI Quentin Johnston @CLE
Raheem Mostert @BUF Brian Thomas Jr. @PHI
Javonte Williams @BAL Jalen Coker NO
Bucky Irving @KC P. Washington @PHI
Chase Brown LVR Rashod Bateman DEN
Chuba Hubbard NO Darius Slayton WAS
Devin Singletary WAS John Metchie @NYJ
J.K. Dobbins @CLE Kayshon Boutte @TEN
Alexander Mattison @CIN Jalen McMillan @KC
SIT ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM Opp Devaughn Vele @BAL
Nick Chubb LAC DEFENSIVE TEAMS
J. McLaughlin @BAL BEST BETS Opp
Ray Davis MIA Chiefs TB
Antonio Gibson @TEN GREAT STARTS Opp
Zack Moss LVR Saints @CAR
Justice Hill DEN Eagles JAC
Dalvin Cook @ATL SOLID STARTERS Opp
Ezekiel Elliott @ATL Lions @GB
Travis Etienne @PHI Bengals LVR
Tyrone Tracy Jr. WAS Commanders @NYG
Rico Dowdle @ATL Vikings IND
Miles Sanders NO Ravens DEN
TIGHT ENDS Texans @NYJ
BEST BETS Opp FRINGE FANTASY PLAYS Opp
Travis Kelce TB Chargers @CLE
GREAT STARTS Opp Falcons DAL
Brock Bowers @CIN Bills MIA
Kyle Pitts DAL Cardinals CHI
SOLID STARTERS Opp Bears @ARI
Sam LaPorta @GB Titans NE
Noah Fant LAR Rams @SEA
Trey McBride CHI Seahawks LAR
Mark Andrews DEN Jets HOU
Cade Otton @KC Packers DET
Evan Engram @PHI Patriots @TEN
FRINGE FANTASY PLAYS Opp Broncos @BAL
Mike Gesicki LVR SIT ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM Opp
Juwan Johnson @CAR Giants WAS
David Njoku LAC Browns LAC
Dalton Schultz @NYJ Panthers NO
T.J. Hockenson IND Jaguars @PHI
Zach Ertz @NYG Dolphins @BUF
Hunter Henry @TEN Raiders @CIN
Dalton Kincaid MIA Buccaneers @KC
Tucker Kraft DET Colts @MIN
Cole Kmet @ARI Cowboys @ATL
Jake Ferguson @ATL
Taysom Hill @CAR
SIT ‘EM IF YOU GOT ‘EM Opp
Will Dissly @CLE
J. Sanders NO
Theo Johnson WAS
Tyler Conklin HOU
Dallas Goedert JAC
Colby Parkinson @SEA
Isaiah Likely DEN
Jonnu Smith @BUF

Fantasy Football Rest of Season Rankings: Week 9

Forecasting where all of the notable players net out over the remainder of the season.

These fantasy football rankings track a player’s value for the remainder of the season and are intended to be used as a tool, not necessarily a definitive guide to player valuation.

The scoring system is performance PPR. There is no exact science behind season-long rankings, considering all of the variables and situational uncertainties at work.

Rankings key:
UP/DN is trending up or down from week’s ranking.
NR means the player wasn’t ranked last week.
UP/DN numbering shows where the player was ranked the prior week.

Fantasy football rest of season rankings

Quarterbacks
Rk Never leaves lineup Bye Up/Down Notes
1 Lamar Jackson, BAL 14
2 Jalen Hurts, PHI 5 7 rushing TDs in 7 games
3 Josh Allen, BUF 12 DN2 has run for 25 yds or less in 5 of 8 games this year
4 Jayden Daniels, WAS 14 played through a rib injury in Wk 8
Rk Lineup regulars Bye Up/Down Notes
5 Jordan Love, GB 10 suffered a groin injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD, but it’s not considered long term
6 Joe Burrow, CIN 12 that offense isn’t the same w/o Tee Higgins
7 Kyler Murray, ARI 11
8 Baker Mayfield, TB 11 UP11 he kept his numbers up even w/o Evans and Godwin
9 Jared Goff, DET 5 threw 3 TDs on just 15 pass attempts in Wk 8
10 C.J. Stroud, HOU 14 DN8
11 Dak Prescott, DAL 7 looks like the bye week fixed nothing in DAL
Rk Weekly matchup plays Bye Up/Down Notes
12 Patrick Mahomes, KC 6 he’ll finish October w/ 2 TD passes
13 Caleb Williams, CHI 7 undid some of the good will he generated in his previous 2 games
14 Kirk Cousins, ATL 12 UP17
15 Tua Tagovailoa, MIA 6 activated from IR; he returned in Wk 8
16 Brock Purdy, SF 9 DN13 1 TD pass or fewer in 6 of his 8 games this year
17 Anthony Richardson, IND 14
18 Matthew Stafford, LAR 6 UP22 w/ Nacua and Kupp back, he threw for 4 TDs in Wk 8
19 Bo Nix, DEN 14 UP23 putting up good numbers vs bad teams; DEN’s schedule gets tougher, so regression is possible
20 Sam Darnold, MIN 6
21 Geno Smith, SEA 10 DN18
22 Trevor Lawrence, JAC 12 UP26 has multiple TD passes in 4 of his last 5 games
Rk Fringe plays/roster depth Bye Up/Down Notes
23 Russell Wilson, PIT 9 UP27 so far, so good
24 Aaron Rodgers, NYJ 12 DN19
25 Daniel Jones, NYG 11
26 Jameis Winston, CLE 10 UP29 yeah, he’s gonna make mistakes, but he’s also gonna make plays
27 Justin Herbert, LAC 5
28 Drake Maye, NE 14 suffered a concussion in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
29 Derek Carr, NO 12 missed 3 gms w/ an oblique injury; he’s likely to return in Wk 9
30 Will Levis, TEN 5 missed 2 gms w/ a shoulder injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
31 Gardner Minshew 10
32 Andy Dalton, CAR 11 DN30 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a thumb injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
33 Justin Fields, PIT 9
34 Bryce Young, CAR 11 NR word is he could remain QB1
35 Joe Flacco, IND 14
36 Drew Lock, NYG 11
Running backs
Rk Never leaves lineup Bye Up/Down Notes
1 Saquon Barkley, PHI 5 just imagine if Hurts didn’t steal all those short-yardage TDs
2 Derrick Henry, BAL 14
3 Kyren Williams, LAR 6 has scored at least 1 TD in 10 straight games
4 Jahmyr Gibbs, DET 5 UP6
5 Bijan Robinson, ATL 12
6 Breece Hall, NYJ 12 DN3 Allen was back to getting significant touches in Wk 8
7 Joe Mixon, HOU 14 UP8
8 Jonathan Taylor, IND 14 UP12 returned after missing 3 gms w/ an ankle injury
9 Alvin Kamara, NO 12
10 Josh Jacobs, GB 10 UP11
11 Aaron Jones, MIN 6 feels like MIN might be overworking Jones, who always worked in a committee in GB
Rk Lineup regulars Bye Up/Down Notes
12 D’Andre Swift, CHI 7 UP17
13 Brian Robinson Jr., WAS 14
14 James Cook, BUF 12 UP16
15 Kenneth Walker III, SEA 10 DN10 he’s rushed for less than 35 yds in 3 of his last 4 games
16 David Montgomery, DET 5
17 De’Von Achane, MIA 6 had 147 yds and a TD in Tagovailoa’s return
18 James Conner, ARI 11 DN15
19 Najee Harris, PIT 9
20 Christian McCaffrey, SF 9 UP23 on IR w/ Achilles tendonitis; he could return in Wk 10
21 Tony Pollard, TEN 5 one of the few bright spots in TEN’s offense
22 Kareem Hunt, KC 6
Rk Weekly matchup plays Bye Up/Down Notes
23 J.K. Dobbins, LAC 5 his numbers have dropped considerably after a hot start
24 Rhamondre Stevenson, NE 14 UP31
25 Tyrone Tracy Jr., NYG 11 UP44 suffered a concussion in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD — he has taken over as RB1
26 Chuba Hubbard, CAR 11
27 Bucky Irving, TB 11 UP30
28 Nick Chubb, CLE 10 if Winston can elevate the passing game, Chubb could have more room to run
29 Javonte Williams, DEN 14
30 Rachaad White, TB 11 DN25 11 touches in Wk 8 to 16 for Irving
31 Jordan Mason, SF 9 DN19 suffered a shoulder injury in Wk 8; could CMC play in Wk 10?
32 Rico Dowdle, DAL 7 DNP in Wk 8 due to an illness
33 Chase Brown, CIN 12
34 Raheem Mostert, MIA 6 yards weren’t there in Wk 8 but he had 2 rushing TDs
35 Tank Bigsby, JAC 12 continues to run effectively w/ Etienne out
36 Jonathon Brooks, CAR 11 on the PUP/NFI list w/ a knee injury; he’s been designated to return
37 Tyler Allgeier, ATL 12 UP40
38 Tyjae Spears, TEN 5 missed 2 gms w/ a hamstring injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
39 Austin Ekeler, WAS 14
40 Alexander Mattison, LVR 10 DN36 he’s definitely RB1 in LV for whatever that’s worth…
41 Travis Etienne, JAC 12 missed 2 gms w/ a hamstring injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
42 Jaylen Warren, PIT 9
Rk Fringe plays/roster depth Bye Up/Down Notes
43 Braelon Allen, NYJ 12 UP53 involvement was back up in Wk 8
44 Zack Moss, CIN 12
45 Zach Charbonnet, SEA 10
46 Isiah Pacheco, KC 6 on IR w/ a leg injury; he’s eligible to return, but his return date is uncertain
47 Devin Singletary, NYG 11 DN35 has been passed on the depth chart by Tracy
48 Ray Davis, BUF 12
49 Justice Hill, BAL 14
50 Trey Benson, ARI 11 UP57 not getting much work, but history says Conner will miss time at some point
51 Emanuel Wilson, GB 6
52 Jaleel McLaughlin, DEN 14 UP65
53 Antonio Gibson, NE 14
54 Ezekiel Elliott, DAL 7 UP60
55 Jerome Ford, CLE 10 missed 2 gms w/ a hamstring injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
56 Tyler Goodson, IND 14 DN49 his only value is as a handcuff to Taylor
57 Roschon Johnson, CHI 7
58 Blake Corum, LAR 6 UP62
59 Jaylen Wright, MIA 6
60 Gus Edwards, LAC 5 on IR w/ a shoulder injury; he’s eligible to return in Wk 10
61 Dameon Pierce, HOU 14
62 Zamir White, LVR 10 DN52
63 Kimani Vidal, LAC 5
64 Sean Tucker, TB 11
65 Isaac Guerendo, SF 9 NR hard to value Guerendo w/o knowing McCaffrey/Mason status for Wk 10
66 Ty Chandler, MIN 6 DN61 zero touches in Wk 8
67 Keaton Mitchell, BAL 14 NR designated to return from IR; he’s a possible waiver wire addition
68 MarShawn Lloyd, GB 10 on IR w/ an ankle injury; he’s eligible to return
69 Kenneth Gainwell, PHI 5
70 Kendre Miller, NO 12 DN66 suffered a hamstring injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
Wide receivers
Rk Never leaves lineup Bye Up/Down Notes
1 Ja’Marr Chase, CIN 12
2 Justin Jefferson, MIN 6
3 CeeDee Lamb, DAL 7 UP6 17 targets coming out of the bye
4 Tyreek Hill, MIA 6 offense looked a bit rusty, but I still think Hill will put up big numbers
5 A.J. Brown, PHI 5
6 Amon-Ra St. Brown, DET 5 has scored in 5 straight games
7 Puka Nacua, LAR 6 UP15 activated from IR; had 106 yds in his return
8 Malik Nabers, NYG 11
9 DK Metcalf, SEA 10 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a knee injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
Rk Lineup regulars Bye Up/Down Notes
10 Cooper Kupp, LAR 6 DN9 returned after missing 4 gms w/ an ankle injury
11 Mike Evans, TB 11 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a hamstring injury; he’s not expected to play in Wk 9
12 Drake London, ATL 12
13 Terry McLaurin, WAS 14 UP18
14 Garrett Wilson, NYJ 12
15 Chris Olave, NO 12 UP16 returned after missing 1 gm w/ a concussion
16 Deebo Samuel, SF 9 suffered a rib injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 10 is TBD
17 Zay Flowers, BAL 14 UP24
18 DeVonta Smith, PHI 5 UP20
19 Nico Collins, HOU 14 on IR w/ a hamstring injury; he’s eligible to return in Wk 10
20 Tee Higgins, CIN 12 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a quad injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
21 Davante Adams, NYJ 12 DN10 that reunion isn’t off to a great start
22 DJ Moore, CHI 7
23 Marvin Harrison Jr., ARI 11 UP27
24 Brian Thomas Jr., JAC 12 UP29 suffered a rib injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
25 Jaylen Waddle, MIA 6
Rk Weekly matchup plays Bye Up/Down Notes
26 Jayden Reed, GB 10 DN21 followed a huge September w/ a quiet October
27 George Pickens, PIT 9
28 Stefon Diggs, HOU 14 DN23 suffered a knee injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
29 Xavier Worthy, KC 6
30 Tank Dell, HOU 14
31 Khalil Shakir, BUF 12 UP39
32 Jakobi Meyers, LVR 10 returned after missing 2 gms w/ an ankle injury
33 Amari Cooper, BUF 12 DN25 looks like it’s gonna take a while for him to acclimate into the offense
34 Jordan Addison, MIN 6
35 Jameson Williams, DET 5 suspended for 2 gms; he’s set to return in Wk 10
36 Darnell Mooney, ATL 12
37 Calvin Ridley, TEN 5 UP43
38 Michael Pittman Jr., IND 14 DN30 how can you trust anything with that passing attack?
39 Romeo Doubs, GB 10
40 Diontae Johnson, CAR 11 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a rib injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
41 Tyler Lockett, SEA 10 DN37
42 Jaxon Smith-Njigba, SEA 10
43 JuJu Smith-Schuster, KC 6 DN42 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a hamstring injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
44 Ladd McConkey, LAC 5 UP50
Rk Fringe plays/roster depth Bye Up/Down Notes
45 DeAndre Hopkins, KC 6 UP48 2 receptions in KC debut
46 Courtland Sutton, DEN 14 had his first 100-yd game since 9/18/22
47 Christian Watson, GB 10
48 Keon Coleman, BUF 12 UP53
49 Wan’Dale Robinson, NYG 11 DN42
50 Keenan Allen, CHI 7 DN45
51 Josh Downs, IND 14 had a nice game in Wk 8 (4-109-1) but there’s no consistency in IND
52 Gabe Davis, JAC 12 UP58 suffered a shoulder injury in Wk 8; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
53 Cedric Tillman, CLE 10 UP74 I’m not sold just yet, but 7-99-2 in Winston’s first start is encouraging
54 DeMario Douglas, NE 14 DN51
55 Ricky Pearsall, SF 9 UP60
56 Juaun Jennings, SF 9 missed 2 gms w/ a hip injury; his status for Wk 10 is TBD
57 Rashod Bateman, BAL 14
58 Jerry Jeudy, CLE 10 UP67 CLE’s passing game came alive w/ Winston slinging it
59 Rome Odunze, CHI 7 led CHI in receiving (3-41-0) in Wk 8
60 Darius Slayton, NYG 11 UP71
61 Allen Lazard, NYJ 12 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a chest injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
62 Jalen Tolbert, DAL 7
63 Jalen McMillan, TB 11 targeted 7 times in Wk 8
64 Michael Wilson, ARI 11
65 Dontayvion Wicks, GB 10 DN57
66 Jalen Nailor, MIN 6 DN64 no consistency w/ Nailor
67 Brandin Cooks, DAL 7 on IR w/ a knee injury; he’s eligible to return in Wk 10
68 Alec Pierce, IND 14 DN61
69 Elijah Moore, CLE 10 NR 14 catches on 18 targets in his last 2 games
70 Adam Thielen, CAR 11 UP76 on IR w/ a hamstring injury; he’s eligible to return
71 Andrei Iosivas, CIN 12
72 Quentin Johnston, LAC 5 DN70 missed 2 gms w/ an ankle injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
73 Xavier Legette, CAR 11 UP78 his role could increase if Johnson/Thielen are traded
74 Tre Tucker, LVR 10
75 Tutu Atwell, LAR 6 DN63 targeted just twice w/ Kupp and Nacua back
76 Ja’Lynn Polk, NE 14 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a concussion; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
77 Van Jefferson, PIT 9 NR
78 Mike Williams, NYJ 12 zero targets in Wk 8 despite Lazard being inactive
79 Troy Franklin, DEN 14
80 Jordan Whittington, LAR 6 DN77 DNP in Wk 8 w/ a shoulder injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
Tight ends
Rk Never leaves lineup Bye Up/Down Notes
1 Travis Kelce, KC 6 UP2 he had his best game of the year in Wk 8 (10-90-1)
2 Brock Bowers, LVR 10
3 George Kittle, SF 9 with all the WR injuries, Kittle might end up being SF’s most reliable pass catcher
4 Trey McBride, ARI 11
Rk Lineup regulars Bye Up/Down Notes
5 Kyle Pitts, ATL 12 UP10 alright, I’m sold, Pitts has arrived!!!
6 Evan Engram, JAC 12
7 Tucker Kraft, GB 10 5 TDs in his last 5 games
8 Jake Ferguson, DAL 7 DN5 he’s been quiet the past couple of games
9 Sam LaPorta, DET 5 DN7 doing a little more lately, but his overall numbers just don’t stack up
10 Mark Andrews, BAL 14
11 Dalton Kincaid, BUF 12 DN8
12 David Njoku, CLE 10 UP14
Rk Weekly matchup plays Bye Up/Down Notes
13 Cade Otton, TB 11 UP19 huge game in Wk 8 (9-81-2); just need to see a little more
14 Dallas Goedert, PHI 5 missed 2 gms w/ a hamstring injury; his status for Wk 9 is TBD
15 Cole Kmet, CHI 7 DN11 that offense is still hit or miss
16 Zach Ertz, WAS 14
17 T.J. Hockenson, MIN 6 on PUP list w/ a knee injury; he could return in Wk 9
18 Taysom Hill, NO 12 DN16 returned after missing 3 gms w/ a rib injury
Rk Fringe plays/roster depth Bye Up/Down Notes
19 Hunter Henry, NE 14
20 Colby Parkinson, LAR 6 DN15 opportunities could be scarce w/ Kupp and Nacua back
21 Noah Fant, SEA 10
22 Dalton Schultz, HOU 14 UP26 if Diggs is out for a while, Schultz could become a bigger part of the offense
23 Isaiah Likely, BAL 14 UP24
24 Pat Freiermuth, PIT 9
25 Jonnu Smith, MIA 6 did little w/ Tagovailoa back
26 Tyler Conklin, NYJ 12
27 Mike Gesicki, CIN 12 UP29 had 7 catches in Wk 8, but that was w/o Higgins
28 Ja’Tavion Sanders, CAR 11
29 Chigoziem Okonkwo, TEN 5
30 Brenton Strange, JAC 12
Defensive teams
Rk Never leaves lineup Bye Up/Down Notes
1 Minnesota Vikings 6 0 sacks, 1 takeaway in Wk 8; not overreacting to one week, but offenses adjust to scheme
2 San Francisco 49ers 9
3 Pittsburgh Steelers 9
Rk Lineup regulars Bye Up/Down Notes
4 Denver Broncos 14
5 Buffalo Bills 12 UP8 they’ve only had one really bad game this season
6 Green Bay Packers 10 pass rush is inconsistent, but they continue to lead the NFL in takeaways
7 Kansas City Chiefs 6 UP10
8 Chicago Bears 7 DN5 their schedule the rest of this season is nasty
9 Houston Texans 14
10 Detroit Lions 5 UP12
Rk Weekly matchup plays Bye Up/Down Notes
11 Philadelphia Eagles 5 UP16 really feels like a group on the rise
12 New York Jets 12 DN7 what a disaster
13 Los Angeles Chargers 5
14 Washington Commanders 14 UP19 they’ve looked much better after a rough start to the season
15 Miami Dolphins 6
16 New York Giants 11
17 Los Angeles Rams 6 NR
18 Baltimore Ravens 14 DN14 just keep getting burned
19 Cleveland Browns 10
20 New Orleans Saints 12 if Carr’s return can stabilize that offense, NO can bounce back

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The Huddle’s Blitzed Fantasy Football Podcast: Episode 220

Talking NFL news, fantasy strength of schedule, DFS, and more!

In this episode, Steve and Harley bring you NFL news, player targets based on playoff strength of schedule, and “DFS Pay-ups, Stay-aways and Value Plays.” So Huddle up, tune in, and get Blitzed!

Or, click here to listen

Fantasy football inactives, injuries and weather: Week 9

Week 9 weather, injury updates and gameday inactives for the fantasy football lineup decisions.

Sunday updates will begin when teams start releasing official pregame inactives and starter information to the league. This is typically around 60-90 minutes prior to the kickoff of their game.

Weather forecasts are courtesy of The Football Database.

Week 9 gameday inactives, weather and notes

KEY GAME-TIME DECISIONS

Early games: QB Matthew Stafford (inactive), WR Puka Nacua (active)
Afternoon games: WR Josh Downs (active)
Sunday night:
Monday night: Allen Lazard

Miami Dolphins at Kansas City Chiefs in Germany (9:30 a.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 50 degrees, light rain, SW 20-30 mph

Dolphins

Inactives: CB Kelvin Joseph, WR Robbie Chosen, OT Robert Hunt, QB Skylar Thompson and S Brandon Jones

Lineup notes: RB De’Von Achane (knee) remains on IR until Week 11. RB Raheem Mostert (ankle) was limited Thursday and Friday but isn’t on the report. WR Jaylen Waddle (back) was a full participant all week and will play. CB Xavien Howard (groin) and LT Terron Armstead (knee) beat questionable tags and are ready to roll. .

Chiefs

Inactives: DE B.J. Thompson, OG Mike Caliendo, DT Neil Farrell, RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire and DL Malik Herring

Lineup notes: RB Jerick McKinnon (groin) had full session Friday and will play. The same protocol was followed for QB Patrick Mahomes (hand), WR Skyy Moore (heel), and WR Kadarius Toney (ankle).

Minnesota Vikings at Atlanta Falcons (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 70 degrees, clear (retractable-roof dome)

Vikings

Inactives: OT Christian Darrisaw, RB Kene Nwangwu, S Lewis Cine, DE Dean Lowry, LB Brian Asamoah, TE Nick Muse and WR Jalen Nailor

Lineup notes: WR Justin Jefferson (hamstring) remains on IR with a hamstring injury, and QB Kirk Cousins (Achilles) will miss the rest of 2023. WR K.J. Osborn (chest) upgraded to a full practice Friday and will play. LT Christian Darrisaw (groin) was downgraded to questionable on Saturday, and he’ll be a game-time decision.

Falcons

Inactives: QB Logan Woodside, DE Joe Gaziano, S DeMarcco Hellams, DT Travis Bell, OG Jovaughn Gwyn, WR Drake London and RB Keith Smith

Lineup notes: WR Drake London (groin) will not play in Week 9.

Arizona Cardinals at Cleveland Browns (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 51 degrees, mostly clear

Cardinals

Inactives: S Qwuantrezz Knight, LB Jesse Luketa, TE Blake Whiteheart, RB Emari Demercado, C Trystan Colon, CB Kei’Trel Clark and WR Michael Wilson

Lineup notes: RB James Conner remains on IR. QB Kyler Murray (knee) won’t be activated, so rookie QB Clayton Tune will start with QB Jeff Driskel serving as the backup. RB Emari Demercado (toe) didn’t participate all week and is out. WR Michael Wilson (shoulder) sat out each day and will not be available. RB Corey Clement was elevated from the practice squad.

Browns

Inactives: OT Leroy Watson, DE Alex Wright, QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, DT Siaki Ika, CB Greg Newsome and WR David Bell

Lineup notes: QB Deshaun Watson (shoulder) fully practiced Friday and will start. RB Jerome Ford (ankle) and TE David Njoku (knee) both fully practiced Friday, too, and are not on the injury report. WR Amari Cooper (rest, ankle) went DNP, limited, and full to close out the practice week without a designation.

Los Angeles Rams at Green Bay Packers (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 46 degrees, cloudy

Rams

Inactives: QB Matthew Stafford, RB Myles Gaskin, DE Earnest Brown, LB Ernest Jones, OT Rob Havenstein and OG Zachary Thomas

Lineup notes: RB Kyren Williams (ankle) remains on IR. QB Matthew Stafford (thumb) wont play, as expected, so QB Brett Rypien will start. WR Puka Nacua (knee) was limited all week and is questionable but is on the field. LB Ernest Jones (knee) has been ruled out, and RT Rob Havenstein joins him.

Packers

Inactives: S Rudy Ford, WR Samori Toure, DL Brenton Cox, OT Caleb Jones and LB Quay Walker

Lineup notes: TE Luke Musgrave (ankle) was limited all week but is free of an injury label. RB Aaron Jones (hamstring) is in the same boat. Both will start. LB Quay Walker (groin) won’t be available.

Washington Commanders at New England Patriots (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 54 degrees, cloudy

Commanders

Inactives: OT Alex Akingbulu, WR Curtis Samuel, CB Tariq Castro-Fields, TE Curtis Hodges, WR Mitchell Tinsley and C Nolan Laufenberg

Lineup notes: WR Curtis Samuel (foot) sat all week and has been ruled out. TE Logan Thomas (heel) fully practiced the last two days and doesn’t have an injury label.

Patriots

Inactives: CB Alex Austin, DT Sam Roberts, WR DeVante Parker, OT Trent Brown, WR Kayshon Boutte and QB Will Grier

Lineup notes: WR Kendrick Bourne (knee) will miss the rest of 2023. WR DeVante Parker (concussion) couldn’t clear the protocol and won’t play. LT Trent Brown (ankle, knee) won’t go, but CB Jonathan Jones (knee), and WR Tyquan Thornton (foot) are available.

Chicago Bears at New Orleans Saints (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

Bears

Inactives: CB Terell Smith, S Jaquan Brisker, LB Tremaine Edmunds, OG Nate Davis, DE Dominique Robinson and QB Justin Fields

Lineup notes: RB Khalil Herbert (ankle) remains on IR. QB Justin Fields (thumb) won’t play, and Chicago’s defense will be without CB Terell Smith (illness), LB Terrell Edmunds (knee), and S Jaquan Brisker (concussion). OG Nate Davis (ankle) also has been ruled out.

Saints

Inactives: TE Jimmy Graham, WR Keith Kirkwood, LB Ty Summers, DL Kyle Phillips, OG Nick Saldiveri and QB Jake Haener

Lineup notes: QB/TE Taysom Hill (hip) fully practiced Friday and isn’t on the report. WR Michael Thomas (illness) is ready to roll, and RB Kendre Miller (illness) will give it a go.

Seattle Seahawks at Baltimore Ravens (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 67 degrees, clear

Seahawks

Inactives: OG Anthony Bradford, OT Raiqwon O’Neal, CB Kyu Blu Kelly, OG McClendon Curtis, LB Devin Bush and DT Myles Adams

Lineup notes: WR Tyler Lockett (hamstring) went from DNP to limited to full and doesn’t have an injury tag. WR DK Metcalf (hip) isn’t on the report and returned to a full session after sitting Thursday.

Ravens

Inactives: OT Morgan Moses, CB Jalyn Armour-Davis, OT Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, S Marcus Williams, CB Rock Ya-Sin and QB Josh Johnson

Lineup notes: WR Odell Beckham Jr. (shoulder) practiced fully Friday and will play. RB Gus Edwards (toe) fully practiced the last two days and isn’t on the injury report. RT Moses Morgan (shoulder) is inactive.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Houston Texans (1:00 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 79 degrees, cloudy (retractable-roof dome)

Buccaneers

Inactives: QB John Wolford, LB Markees Watts, OT Matt Feiler, RB Sean Tucker, TE David Wells and DE Logan Hall

Lineup notes: QB Baker Mayfield (knee) fully practiced all week and will play. WR Mike Evans rested Friday but doesn’t have a designation.

Texans

Inactives: WR Robert Woods, DL Sheldon Rankins, TE Brevin Jordan, QB Case Keenum, RB Dameon Pierce and OG Nick Broeker

Lineup notes: WR Robert Woods (foot), RB Damien Pierce (knee), and TE Brevin Jordan (foot) have been ruled out.

Indianapolis Colts at Carolina Panthers (4:05 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 72 degrees, clear

Colts

Inactives: CB Ameer Speed, OT Braden Smith, CB Julius Brents, TE Will Mallory, LB Zaire Franklin and OG Jack Anderson

Lineup notes: RB Zack Moss (heel) didn’t practice Friday but is not on the injury report. WR Josh Downs (knee) overcame a questionable label and will play. RT Braden Smith (hip, wrist) has been ruled out, and LB Zaire Franklin (knee) also is inactive.

Panthers

Inactives: OT Ricky Lee, CB David Long, WR Laviska Shenault Jr., OT Brett Toth, SS Vonn Bell and OT Nash Jensen

Lineup notes: RB Miles Sanders (calf) practiced in full on Friday and doesn’t have a tag. WR DJ Chark Jr. (elbow) was questionable but will play, whereas WR Laviska Shenault Jr. (ankle) was ruled out after not practicing all week. S Vonn Bell (quad) will not be available.

New York Giants at Las Vegas Raiders (4:25 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: Dome stadium

Giants

Inactives: RB Jashaun Corbin, PK Cade York, DT Jordon Riley, OT Joshua Miles, S Gervarrius Owens and OG Sean Harlow

Lineup notes: QB Daniel Jones (neck) will return this week. RB Saquon Barkley (ankle) upgraded to a full practice Friday and will play. TE Darren Waller (hamstring) and PK Graham Gano (knee) went on IR. PK Randy Bullock will handle the kicking duties. WR Wan’Dale Robinson (knee) was removed from the report on Friday. RT Evan Neal (ankle) and LT Andrew Thomas (hamstring) are both back on the field.

Raiders

Inactives: FB Jakob Johnson, OT Thayer Munford, LB Luke Masterson, LB Divine Deablo, QB Brian Hoyer, DL Byron X. Young and DL Isaac Rochell

Lineup notes: LB Divine Deablo (ankle) will not play. DE Maxx Crosby (knee, ankle) and PK Daniel Carlson (groin) avoided an injury tag.

Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles (4:25 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 64 degrees, mostly clear

Cowboys

Inactives: QB Trey Lance, RB Deuce Vaughn, CB Noah Igbinoghene, CB Eric Scott Jr., DL Villami Fehoko Jr. and WR Jalen Brooks

Lineup notes: WR Michael Gallup (illness) fully practiced Thursday and Friday after sitting Wednesday; he’s not on the report. LT Tyron Smith (neck) is active. LB Rashaan Evans was elevated from the practice squad.

Eagles

Inactives: DE Derek Barnett, RB Boston Scott, CB Bradley Roby, TE Grant Calcaterra, DT Moro Ojomo and QB Tanner McKee

Lineup notes: RB Boston Scott (personal) has been ruled out.

Sunday Night Football

Buffalo Bills at Cincinnati Bengals (8:20 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 48 degrees, cloudy

Bills

Inactives: LB A.J. Klein, OG Alec Anderson, LB Baylon Spector, OT Germain Ifedi, DT Poona Ford and S Damar Hamlin

Lineup notes: TE Dawson Knox (wrist) went on IR after wrist surgery and is out indefinitely. QB Josh Allen (shoulder) fully practiced the last two days and avoided an injury tag. CB Josh Norman was elevated to the active roster.

Bengals

Inactives: OT D’Ante Smith, CB D.J. Ivey, C Trey Hill, OT Devin Cochran and DL Josh Tupou

Lineup notes: RB Joe Mixon (chest) is active after being questionable entering the contest.

Monday Night Football

Los Angeles Chargers at New York Jets (8:15 p.m. ET)

Kickoff Weather: 44 degrees, cloudy

Chargers

Lineup notes: WR Joshua Palmer (knee) has been placed on IR, and WR Jaylen Guyton was activated from the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list. QB Justin Herbert (finger) and TE Gerald Everett (hip) fully practiced all week and don’t carry injury designations. LB Kenneth Murray (shoulder) and LB Eric Kendricks (ribs) are questionable, though the latter is more likely to play.

Jets

Lineup notes: WR Randall Cobb (shoulder) fully practiced all week and isn’t on the report. WR Allen Lazard (knee) has been listed as questionable after being added Saturday. He’s a game-time decision.

Fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em: Week 9

Check out these starts and sits for fantasy football in Week 9.

With the Thursday night game in Week 9 now behind us, it’s time to focus our attention on the vital start/sit decisions to make in fantasy football for the weekend.

Four teams will be on a bye this week including the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, Jacksonville Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers.

Doing start/sit articles can be a little challenging. The players featured on the list below should not be taken as “must starts” or “must sits.” Instead, these are more suggestions on what we believe managers should do with fringe players heading into the weekend. The choice is ultimately up to the manager.

Just because a player is listed as a “start” doesn’t mean he should be put in the lineup over the secure, bona fide studs. Vice versa for the “sits.” If there’s no better option on the waiver wire or the bench, a manager shouldn’t automatically sit the player. That’s why these can be tricky waters to navigate.

Feel free to ask any specific start/sit questions via X, formerly Twitter, (@KevinHickey11) or check out our start/bench list for Week 9:

The best fantasy football gamble of Week 9

Will this once-vaunted TE rise from the ashes to contribute line lineups this week?

Every week, at least one player becomes my fascination of whether he’s worthy of a fantasy football start as a streamer. The decision can be a mental wrestling match, but for the purpose of brevity, only one player can be chosen as my favorite fantasy football gamble of the week.

The players chosen in this series are meant to be fliers for fantasy owners in desperate situations or willing to take an intentional risk. No player is intended to be a lineup lock for guaranteed results, hence the name of the series.

The best fantasy football gamble for Week 9

Tracking my 2023 predictions: 1-7-0
All-time record: 19-38-3

Win: Player produces ≥ 75% of projected fantasy points
Loss: Player produces >75% of projected fantasy points
Tie: Player is ejected, leaves with an injury, or is ruled out after publishing

This year, we’ll also track the accuracy on a percentage basis to show relative results, since sometimes calling a player a loss doesn’t actually hurt gamers. An example would be if a projection narrowly falls short of the 75 percent threshold, the player is still of use in a lineup.

Wk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
% 55 74.7 41.7 20.8 150.3 66.5 16.1 25.5
Grade E C F- F- A+ D F- F-

This train wreck continues … the absolute worst part of it for me has been two of the last three weeks I simply chose the wrong player. In Week 6, I strongly debated taking Tyler Boyd, and last week I stupidly ignored my gut and took Jamaal Williams over Gabe Davis. So, let’s see if I can pick the right guy (Royce Freeman is my other strong lean) and put another W on the board …

New England Patriots TE Hunter Henry vs. Washington Commanders

I fully recognize this one is about as risky as they come, and it doesn’t do me any favors from the W-L perspective, because the odds definitely are stacked against this one coming to fruition.

Henry has not topped 9.1 PPR points or scored since Week 2, and the former Los Angeles Charger has no more than three targets in the last month of play. The chemistry with Mac Jones just hasn’t been there, and that’s a major concern in this recommendation.

However, necessity is the mother of invention, and the idea here is the loss of wide receiver Kendrick Bourne (knee) as well as the utter void of connection between Jones and JuJu Smith-Schuster. The Patriots are desperately in need of someone to step up in the passing game, so there’s a clear path to an increased target share for Henry.

Washington has totally flopped vs. the position in the last month. This matchup rates in the top eight for receptions and yardage per game as well as ease of TDs in relation to catches allowed since Week 3. Tight ends have averaged 5.8 receptions, 59.8 yards, and a TD every 7.3 grabs, good for 16.6 PPR points an outing. Only three teams have allowed more fantasy points per game in both primary scoring systems, and this is the fourth-most efficient matchup of the week.

[lawrence-related id=483661]

All four of the TDs against Washington have come in the last four weeks. In that time, Cole Kmet, Kyle Pitts, Jonnu Smith, and Darren Waller all posted at least 136 PPR points, with the New York Giant finishing with 22.8 as the high-water mark. Washington presents a matchup rating that is 66.7% higher than the league average in the last three weeks and 31.7% better in the most recent five games.

Henry isn’t going to be a volume guy in this one, but he certainly could tack on another touchdown to that list, and a pair of scores isn’t out of reach. Play him if you’re backed into a corner, but this likely will be an all-or-nothing result.

My projection: 6 targets, 5 receptions, 48 yards, 1 TD (15.8 PPR points)

The Huddle’s Blitzed Fantasy Football Podcast: Episode 200

Talking NFL player news, fantasy football advice, DFS strategy and more!

In this episode, Steve and Harley bring you NFL news, scheduling impact on the fantasy football playoffs, and “DFS Pay-ups, Stay-aways and Value Plays.” So Huddle up, tune in, and get Blitzed!

Or, click here to listen