Sit or Start for Week 6

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Sit Bo Nix vs Seahawks The Seahawks rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. With head coach Sean Payton taking over play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Davis Webb in Week 5, the decision didn't exactly light a fire under Nix and the Broncos offense. Nix settled for his fewest passing yards of the season, but he at least tossed a TD pass (to WR Courtland Sutton) for a fifth game in a row to kick off the campaign, giving him a 6:3 TD:INT so far. Nix may have a tough time producing better results on a short week when Denver hosts the defending champion Seahawks on Thursday night.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 15 28 53.57 174 16 1 1

Sit Daniel Jones vs Titans The Colts' lone TD came on a one-yard plunge by tight end Tyler Warren in the second quarter, and the rest of their points came via five Spencer Shrader field goals as Jones couldn't get the ball into the end zone. Jones still has yet to re-discover the form he displayed prior to the Achilles injury that ended his 2025 campaign, and through five games this season he's managed a weak 3:4 TD:INT and 5.8 YPA, although a depleted WR room is playing a large part in his downturn as well. Jones will try to build some momentum in Week 6 against the winless Titans.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 19 30 63.33 215 15 1 1

Sit Justin Herbert vs Chiefs The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Herbert's season-low number of pass attempts amounted to by far his lowest yardage total through the air through five contests this season. He also turned over the ball two times, which resulted in two late made field goals for Denver (matching the margin of defeat) and bringing his total on the campaign to nine (seven INTs, two lost fumbles). Granted, Herbert was working without WR Quentin Johnston (chest, inactive), while Ladd McConkey (foot) was active but doesn't appear to have played a snap, so the deck was stacked against him versus a tough defense. Herbert's next chance to get right is next Sunday versus the 4-0 Chiefs.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 16 28 57.14 169 12 1 1

Risks...

BAKER MAYFIELD vs Steelers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Bowles admitted the "plan" is for Jalon Daniels to start next Sunday against the Steelers after the rookie quarterback helped lead the Bucs to their first victory in a stunning upset of the Cowboys on Thursday night. Mayfield has missed two games and was initially given a recovery timetable of 3-to-6 weeks, so he appears to be progressing normally with his dislocated thumb.

Caleb Williams vs Falcons
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Prior to Williams being deemed inactive for a third straight game Sunday due to a Grade 2 right hamstring strain, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that the quarterback is "pushing to play" next weekend against the Falcons, and the fact he was able to complete a pregame workout backed up that sentiment. Johnson's comments afterward keeps the situation in some limbo for the time being, but the combined play of Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum on Sunday could spur the Bears to turn back to Williams after a second defeat in the last four contests.

JACOBY BRISSETT vs Rams
-  The Rams rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Brissett's final stat line was deceptively impressive and largely the byproduct of plenty of production amassed over the final two drives when Arizona was already down by more than three touchdowns. The veteran signal-caller capped off both of those possessions with scoring tosses to tight ends, connecting with Teagan Quitoriano (13 yards) and Trey McBride (nine yards). Brissett had previously recorded a two-yard scoring strike to Quitoriano back in the first quarter as well, and the former finished with a season high in passing yards and touchdown passes. Brissett next faces the tough challenge of the Rams' talented secondary in a Week 6 road matchup next Sunday.

Jalen Hurts vs Panthers
-  The Panthers rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Hurts had just two rushing yards as well. Let's be honest. The Eagles could likely handle the loss of AJ Brown this season but not having Brown, DeVonta Smith and Saquon Barkley makes this offense about as vanilla as you can imagine. Hurts was forced to air it out repeatedly as Philadelphia lost Will Shipley in the first half and produced a total of just 22 rushing yards. Hurts is starting to lose his dynasty value as the Eagles keep sputtering.

JAMEIS WINSTON vs Saints
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Winston has the ability to post monster fantasy numbers and he did so again today as he locked on to Malik Nabers and didn't throw any interceptions, though he did lose a fumble. Winston is looking a little more comfortable in the offense and while we're destined to see some duds moving forward, he hasn't done anything to lose the job in New York. He'll be a QB2 moving forward and cheap trade option in dynasty leagues.

Lamar Jackson vs Browns
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Jackson was held out of Sunday's 30-23 overtime win over the Falcons due to a left ankle sprain that he sustained during the Ravens' Week 4 win over the Titans. Minter added that he wasn't sure whether Jackson would be cleared to practice Wednesday, and the superstar quarterback's participation during Week 6 prep ultimately will determine whether he or Tyler Huntley starts against the Browns on Oct. 18.

Michael Penix Jr. vs Bears
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Penix took a hard hit to his rib area late in the fourth quarter of this past Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Ravens and was unable to play in overtime. He relayed after the game that he didn't think his rib injury was a long-term concern, and the Falcons are keeping the door open for him to start in Week 6. Per Marc Raimondi of ESPN.com, head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that he didn't have any new information regarding the status of Penix and wouldn't get into any further specifics regarding X-rays or imaging performed on the quarterback's ribs. Stefanski added that he expects to have a better understanding of Penix's availability Wednesday, when the Falcons will hold their first practice of the week.

Start Brock Purdy vs Commanders The Commanders rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Seattle's talented defense made life tougher for Purdy than it had been up to this point, as he committed his first turnover since Week 1 and took his first three sacks of the season. Purdy nonetheless did enough to keep the 49ers undefeated. He threw a two-yard touchdown pass to Mike Evans in the first quarter and a seven-yard touchdown pass to Brandin Cooks in the fourth, the latter of which Purdy followed up with a two-point conversion to Evans. The Seahawks responded with a field goal to tie the game at 29-29, but Purdy led the 49ers into position for Eddy Pineiro's go-ahead 44-yard field goal with 1:56 remaining. San Francisco's defense delivered the game-winning stop as Purdy and the 49ers improved to 5-0 heading into a Week 6 MNF home game against the Commanders.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 24 35 68.57 288 24 3 0

Start KIRK COUSINS vs Bills The Bills rank #31 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The lopsided result owed much more to the fact that the Raiders defense couldn't stop Drake Maye than it did to Cousins' performance, but it still provided coach Klint Kubiak with an opportunity to give Fernando Mendoza his first snaps in the NFL on the team's final drive. Las Vegas has lost two straight games with Cousins under center after a 3-0 start, and while the veteran QB has a more than respectable 12:4 TD:INT and 65.1 percent completion rate in his five starts, he was always going to be a placeholder until the first overall pick in the 2026 draft is deemed ready to take over. A switch at quarterback may not be imminent, but the clock may be ticking on Cousins' tenure as the starter heading into a Week 6 battle with the Bills.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 25 39 64.1 294 2 2 0

Start MATTHEW STAFFORD vs Cardinals Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Stafford's stellar final line underscores he did everything within his power to lead the Rams to victory, as the reigning MVP finished with his second-highest passing yardage total of the season and fourth 300-yard effort of the campaign. The night also marked Stafford's third multi-TD tally over the first five games, with his scoring strikes going to Davante Adams (four and five yards) and Puka Nacua (two yards). Nacua also was on the receiving end of a whopping 17 of Stafford's completions and the intended target on 24 of his pass attempts, but all of those efforts went for naught thanks to the Bills' block of a Harrison Mevis 48-yard field-goal attempt in overtime that would have sealed the victory for Los Angeles. Stafford and the Rams now will look to bounce back in a Week 6 home divisional matchup against the Cardinals on Sunday.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 26 39 66.66 301 3 3 0

Rewards...

C.J. Stroud vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #29 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Neither team had gotten the ball into the end zone at halftime, but Stroud fixed that by scampering for a two-yard TD in the third quarter before finding Jaylin Noel for a nine-yard score in the fourth. Despite the Texans' 1-4 record, Stroud still has yet to throw an INT this season, compiling a 6:0 TD:INT in five games, and he hasn't committed a turnover since Week 1. The fourth-year QB also has reinforcements coming for his receiving corps after Houston traded for Marvin Harrison on Sunday. Stroud will look to build on this performance in a Week 6 clash with the Jaguars.

Cam Ward vs Colts
-  The Colts rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Ward now has just three touchdown passes and three interceptions through the first five weeks of the season. He's also crossed 200 passing yards just once in five tries. While it doesn't seem like the Titans are waving the white flag in any way, shape or form, Ward needs to play better and do it fast for Tennessee to continue having faith in him. The NFL just doesn't give long runways for players to develop and Ward's is certainly getting shorter. His dynasty value continues to fade.

Jordan Love vs Cowboys
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Love was in need of a big performance for dynasty managers and he delivered it big-time today, routinely finding Christian Watson and a host of others for big plays. The Packers really needed to bounce back from a tough early season start and a blowout of Chicago was just what Love and the Packers apparently needed. While we need to see more before trusting Love as more than a QB2, this was certainly a step in the right direction.

JOSH ALLEN vs Raiders
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Facing a Rams defense that had forced plenty of inefficiency through the air from both wide receivers and tight ends and operating without both DJ Moore (shoulder) and Joshua Palmer (shoulder), Allen unsurprisingly recorded a season low in completions. However, the prolific signal-caller more than made up for it on the ground with a season-high rushing yardage total, as well as his eighth rushing touchdown of the season. Allen's most crucial runs outside of his one-yard scoring dive early in the fourth quarter came on Buffalo's final drive in overtime, when he rattled off 19- and 13-yard scrambles to move the ball from the Bills' 41-yard line to the Rams' 27-yard line to set up an eventual game-winning field goal from Tyler Bass. Allen also added his seventh passing score of the season late in the third quarter on a seven-yard strike to Keon Coleman, and the two-time All-Pro will next turn his sights to a Week 6 road matchup against the Raiders on Sunday.

Sit Bhayshul Tuten vs Texans The Texans rank #4 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. The second-year back set new season highs in touches and scrimmage yards as he reached 90 in the latter category for a third straight game. Tuten has yet to have a truly huge performance this season, but he's been very steady so far as the Jaguars' No. 1 RB, collecting 349 rushing yards and two TDs on 4.3 yards per carry while adding a 9-78-0 line on 10 targets through five games. Tuten hasn't gotten into the end zone in two straight games, a streak he'll look to snap in Week 6 against the Texans.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 13 46 1 7 0

Sit Braelon Allen vs Patriots With Breece Hall out for the game with an injury, Allen carried the mail for the Jets and showed he's more than capable of doing so whenever called upon. While far from dominant, Allen churned out yards when necessary and had a huge touchdown in the game. He'll remain in fantasy lineups as long as Hall is out and could be a sneaky trade candidate in dynasty leagues as it's always seemed tough to see the Jets hold on to both Allen and Hall long term.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 12 39 1 4 0

Sit Jeremiyah Love vs Rams Jeremiyah Love rushed the ball 12 times for 22 yards and failed to catch a pass in Sunday's 45-21 loss to the Detroit Lions. The rookie had an extremely disappointing game on Sunday. He rushed for an inefficient 22 yards on 12 carries, and he wasn't able to catch a single pass over the course of the game, which left him with a terrible fantasy total. He didn't play much late in the game when Arizona fell behind, and it's worth keeping tabs on updates about his injury status and the team's plan for workload management heading into Week 6. If the Cardinals are having to throw early and often to keep up with the Rams (which is likely), we may not see as much of Love this week as his owners would like.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 13 42 1 6 0

Sit Quinshon Judkins vs Ravens He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Though he was able to finish out Sunday's contest while accounting for 50 yards from scrimmage on 17 touches (14 carries, three receptions), Judkins handled a lower snap share (52.9 percent) than usual, likely due to the injury. The second-year back was spotted with a walking boot on his right foot following the game, but Monken's comments offer at least some optimism about Judkins' availability heading into Week 6. His practice participation Wednesday through Friday should help provide a clearer read on his status heading into next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 10 31 1 6 0

Risks...

Breece Hall vs Patriots
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). With Hall set to miss another contest, Braelon Allen is positioned to continue handling the lead role in the Jets' backfield after he logged 32 of 34 offensive snaps in Hall's absence last Sunday against the Bears. Hall remains week-to-week, and his next chance to play will be Week 6 against the Patriots.

D'Andre Swift vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #5 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. With Kyle Monangai (toe) inactive, Swift had the clear-cut lead role in the Bears' ground attack Sunday, but game script progressively worked against him. The veteran back was able to somewhat salvage his fantasy day with a one-yard touchdown run just inside the two-minute warning in the first half, his first score since his three-TD day in Week 1 against the Panthers. Swift also posted his second-highest reception, receiving yardage and target totals of the season, and it remains to be seen if he'll get another game without Monangai when the Bears visit the Falcons next Sunday.

J.K. Dobbins vs Seahawks
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Dobbins easily led both teams in touches with 20, which marked a season high, and he also reached the end zone for the first time in the current campaign. Meanwhile, fellow RB RJ Harvey was contained to three rushes for seven yards, marking his lowest touch count of 2026. Dobbins has received a more consistent workload among the two players with 13.8 touches per game (as opposed to 8.8 per contest for Harvey), making him the more appealing of the two backfield options in Denver.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt vs 49ers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Croskey-Merritt had a 33-yard touchdown run on his first carry just two minutes into the game and ultimately set a new season high in rushing yards despite tying for his fewest touches of the season with just 11. Rachaad White and Austin Ekeler combined for 10 carries and two targets, while Jayden Daniels led Washington's ground game with 103 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns on nine attempts. Given Croskey-Merritt's lack of involvement in the passing game, he may not get many opportunities if the Commanders fall behind as expected when they visit the undefeated 49ers in Week 6.

Jaylen Warren vs Buccaneers
-  The Buccaneers rank #2 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. During the offseason, McCarthy said that he viewed the Steelers backfield as a 50-50 split between Warren and Rico Dowdle (toe). However, Warren has solidified his RB1 role over the Steelers' last three games with Dowdle on the sidelines, with the former accumulating 490 yards and two touchdowns on 61 touches (49 carries, 12 catches on 16 targets) in that span. It appears Warren is the clear lead back for the Steelers even when Dowdle returns, which could happen as soon as this Sunday against the Buccaneers.

Omarion Hampton vs Chiefs
-  The Chiefs rank #3 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Hampton was a popular pick to be the breakout fantasy performer of the year but things have not gone well thus far. Today was pretty typical and the fact Hampton only has a total of five catches on the season is a serious concern. At this point, he looks like a touchdown dependent RB2 more than the borderline RB1 so many had hoped for. His dynasty value will continue to slide after this week's dud.

Saquon Barkley vs Panthers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Barkley was sidelined for Sunday's 19-17 loss to the Jaguars in London due to a right hamstring injury that he sustained during the Eagles' Week 4 loss to the Rams. Wednesday will be the first Eagles practice of Week 6 prep, and even a limited session would have Barkley trending toward a return against Carolina. Will Shipley was diagnosed with a partial tear of his plantar fascia following Sunday's game, and with Barkley and Tank Bigsby (abdomen, IR) both sidelined, that currently leaves Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele as the two healthy running backs on the Eagles' 53-man roster.

Woody Marks vs Jaguars
-  The 19 touches and 85 scrimmage yards were season highs for Marks, and the added volume came after David Montgomery left the game in the second quarter due to a groin strain and didn't return. Marks has been trending toward taking on a larger share of the load anyway as a result of Montgomery's ineffectiveness, but if the veteran back is forced to miss any additional time, the decision on who the Texans' No. 1 RB is would be made for coach DeMeco Ryans. Through five games, Marks has 149 rushing yards and two TDs along with an 11-54-0 line through the air on 13 targets, but his 3.5 yards per carry is a reflection of the offensive line's struggles. If he does take on the top job in the backfield in Week 6, it'll come against a very stingy Jaguars run defense. The Jaguars rank #1 in our Run Defense Power Rankings.

Start Cam Skattebo vs Saints The Saints rank #31 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. After a quiet performance in regulation, Skattebo saved his best and worst moments for overtime. He racked up 40 of his 71 scrimmage yards in OT, but Skattebo fumbled on Washington's 24-yard line as the Giants were in range for a potential game-winning field-goal attempt. That mistake was matched by a clock-management error on the other end, which prevented the Commanders from attempting a game-winning field goal of their own prior to the end of OT. Skattebo will be motivated to atone for his fumble in Week 6 against the Saints' leaky run defense.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 76 2 14 1

Start Chuba Hubbard vs Eagles The Rodney Dangerfield, "I can't get no respect" annual award winner just continues to produce year after year. With Jonathon Brooks down yet again, Hubbard will continue to get work and we can expect he'll continue to churn out fantasy stats in the process. While not an elite-level player, Hubbard just gets the job done as a RB2 and should be a prime trade candidate for contending teams.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 17 88 2 12 1

Start Javonte Williams vs Packers The Packers rank #28 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Williams' rushing opportunities were somewhat capped by a surprising second-half game script that included a 17-0 third-quarter advantage for Tampa Bay. However, the veteran running back had gotten Dallas started off on the right foot in the first quarter, when he capped off a nine-play opening drive with a one-yard touchdown run. Williams did a respectable job throughout the night grinding out yards against a tough Buccaneers run defense, but he's now averaged less than 3.8 yards per carry in four of the first five games, including two straight. Nevertheless, Williams does have six rushing touchdowns in the same span, and he should have a good chance at a heftier workload on the ground in a Week 6 road matchup against the Packers on Sunday, Oct. 18.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 17 91 2 9 1

Start Kenneth Walker vs Chargers Walker now has 537 rushing yards (on 6.2 yards per carry), 12 catches, 84 receiving yards, and six touchdowns through just four games, good as the RB2 in fantasy so far this season. Walker has been a one-man wrecking crew for the Chiefs and is still just 25 years old. This looks like a free agent marriage for the ages and Walker is going to be a league-winning player if he stays healthy all season. His ADP and dynasty ranking are reaching the elite level at this point.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 18 106 2 12 1

Rewards...

Ashton Jeanty vs Bills
-  A 31-yard catch in the fourth quarter salvaged Jeanty's day to some extent, but he wasn't able to cash in the red-zone opportunity he created as Dylan Laube instead ran in a two-yard score. Jeanty's rushing yards total was a season low, and he's still looking for his first rushing TD while averaging just 3.3 yards per carry, keeping his fantasy value afloat with a 22-215-2 line on 30 targets through five games. He'll look for more success on the ground in Week 6 against what has been a vulnerable Bills run defense.

Bijan Robinson vs Bears
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Robinson was held without a touchdown after scoring four times over the previous two games, but he managed to top 100 scrimmage yards for the fourth time in five games. The star running back was far more effective than backup Brian Robinson, who also had four touchdowns over the previous two games but turned seven carries and one target into just 16 yards against the Ravens. Bijan has racked up 732 scrimmage yards and five total TDs heading into a Week 6 home game against the Bears. Michael Penix (ribs) was hurt late in Sunday night's loss to Baltimore, so it remains to be seen whether Penix or Tua Tagovailoa will start under center for Atlanta against Chicago.

CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY vs Commanders
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. McCaffrey gave the 49ers a 14-10 lead with an 11-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. His 14 touches tied a season low, and McCaffrey has yet to reach 20 touches in a game, as the undefeated 49ers have been content to manage his workload to some extent in order to keep the star running back fresh after McCaffrey averaged over 24 touches per game in the 2025 regular season. The reduced workload hasn't kept McCaffrey from scoring five touchdowns across his last four games, and he'll look to extend his four-game scoring streak in Week 6 against the Commanders.

DERRICK HENRY vs Browns
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Henry unsurprisingly worked as the focal point of Baltimore's offense in the absence of Lamar Jackson (ankle). The star running back pulled the Ravens within two points with his 18-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter. Baltimore's two-point conversion attempt after that touchdown failed, but Henry took matters into his own hands to convert a game-tying two-point conversion out of the wildcat formation with 40 seconds left in the fourth quarter. He then tacked on 32 rushing yards on Baltimore's touchdown drive in OT to top the century mark on the ground for the first time since Week 1. Henry has opened his 11th NFL season with a five-game touchdown streak, producing seven rushing touchdowns and one receiving score ahead of a Week 6 trip to Cleveland.

Emanuel Wilson vs Broncos
-  The Broncos rank #29 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Wilson followed up his two-touchdown performance in Week 4 against the Chargers with a two-yard rushing score in the first quarter against the 49ers, but he proceeded to lose a fumble in the second quarter. Fellow running back George Holani also lost a fumble, and Sam Darnold threw two interceptions in a sloppy performance from Seattle's offense. Zach Charbonnet (knee) isn't expected to be activated from the reserve/PUP list ahead of Thursday's game against the Broncos, while Jadarian Price (chest) remains on IR, so Wilson is poised to remain Seattle's lead back in Week 6.

James Cook III vs Raiders
-  The Raiders rank #30 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Cook put together another highly efficient night that saw him gain significant chunks of yards on multiple carries, and which featured his fifth rushing touchdown of the season on a 17-yard run in the later portion of the second quarter. However, Cook dodged what would have been a major blemish on his night -- a lost fumble at the Rams' 20-yard line in overtime -- when Josh Allen subsequently mounted a successful game-winning drive following a blocked field goal by Buffalo's special teams. Cook will take 532 rushing yards and an average of 5.6 yards per carry into a Week 6 road matchup against the Raiders on Sunday.

Jonathan Taylor vs Titans
-  The Steelers were able to keep Taylor from hurting them, and most of the star RB's yardage came on a 24-yard pass from Daniel Jones in the second quarter and a 20-yard run in the fourth, the latter of which helped set up the fifth of Spencer Shrader's five field goals on the afternoon. It's the second time in the last three games that Taylor has fallen short of 90 scrimmage yards, as defenses have crowded the box and focused on stopping him while daring the Colts' depleted WR room to beat them over the top. Taylor should be able to find a little more success in Week 6 against the winless Titans.

Kyren Williams vs Cardinals
-  Williams operated as the clear lead back while outpacing Blake Corum by 11 carries, three receptions and four targets, but the former found running room at a premium against a Bills defense that's been surprisingly stout up front. Williams was able to add his fourth rushing touchdown on a dramatic one-yard run with five seconds remaining in regulation to help force overtime, and he's now recorded at least six catches in three consecutive games. Williams should remain in a clear lead role when the Rams host the Cardinals in an NFC West matchup Sunday.

MarShawn Lloyd vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Lloyd was able to open the second quarter with a 10-yard touchdown run before later adding a four-yard score in the fourth quarter. The running back's 10 carries were his most since logging 13 rushes for 37 yards in Week 1 versus Minnesota. Lloyd has now compiled 112 rushing yards on 40 carries and two touchdowns while reeling in 10 of 13 targets for 55 yards and a score over five games to open the 2026 season while operating as Green Bay's primary option in the backfield with Josh Jacobs (personal) on the Commissioner's Exempt List.

Sit Brian Thomas Jr. vs Texans Getting the ball to Parker Washington was once again was the primary focus for Trevor Lawrence, as the fourth-year wideout popped for a 6-124-2 line on nine targets, and Thomas didn't do anything with the little volume he got to prove he should be a bigger part of the game plan. Thomas has gotten three targets ore fewer in four of five games to begin the season, leading to a meager 9-105-1 line on 18 targets, and there's little reason to expect a breakout in Week 6 against the Texans.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 31 0

Sit CHRIS GODWIN JR. vs Steelers Godwin continued to fill a complementary role in the air attack on a night when Jalon Daniels threw for a modest 189 yards. The veteran wideout has been confined to a short-area role for the most part whether it's been Baker Mayfield (thumb) or Daniels under center, as Godwin has just a 19-179-0 line on the season and two receptions of 20-plus yards heading into a Week 6 home matchup against the Steelers on Sunday, Oct. 18. The Steelers have allowed the 6th fewest fantasy points to WRs.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 42 0

Sit Jaylen Waddle vs Seahawks The Seahawks rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Waddle has hit once (8-138-0 on 10 targets in Week 2 against the Jaguars) and otherwise hasn't done much (10-66-1 on 21 targets) in his other four appearances in his first campaign with the Broncos. It didn't help any of Denver's skill-position players that QB Bo Nix's 27 passes went for only 123 yards, and a quick turnaround to face the Seahawks defense Thursday isn't a recipe for Waddle or any of his teammates to turn around their fortunes to begin the 2026 season. A matchup against the Seahawks #3 fantasy defense against WRs is not a good bet.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 34 0

Sit KENDRICK BOURNE vs Rams The Rams rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings and #9 against fantasy WRs. Bourne led the team in receiving yards, while his five snags and eight targets ranked second behind tight end Trey McBride's nine catches on 10 targets. The wide receiver stepped into a more prominent role due to Marvin Harrison (traded) being inactive, and Bourne figures to operate as the team's clear No. 2 option behind Michael Wilson moving forward.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 37 0

Sit Ladd McConkey vs Chiefs The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings and #1 against fantasy WRs. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Initially labeled as week-to-week by head coach Jim Harbaugh at the beginning of Week 5 prep, McConkey didn't practice in any fashion Wednesday through Friday but was still listed as questionable heading into Sunday. Though he ultimately suited up against Denver, McConkey looks to have been active only in an emergency since the Chargers had two other wideouts (Quentin Johnston and Brenen Thompson) sitting out with more worrisome injuries. The Chargers' depth was further tested when Tre' Harris (hamstring) left Sunday's game early, resulting in the team finishing with just three healthy receivers. McConkey's practice activity will bear watching this week to determine whether he has a more legitimate chance at playing meaningful snaps next Sunday in Kansas City. Being that McConkey suited up last week, we see him trying to give it a go, but don't look for much from him.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 36 0

Risks...

DeVonta Smith vs Panthers
-  The Panthers rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings and Smith is still nursing a hammy. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Smith was seen running on a side field last Thursday before getting in some rehab work Friday, but he was listed as a non-participant on all three of the Eagles' Week 5 injury reports due to a lingering hamstring issue and thus won't play Sunday. With Hollywood Brown (ankle) also sidelined this weekend, Philadelphia's options at wide receiver will be Dontayvion Wicks, Makai Lemon, Darius Cooper, Elijah Moore and Britain Covey.

DJ Moore vs Raiders
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). After suffering a shoulder injury in Week 4, Moore wasn't expected to be tending to a long-term issue, and head coach Joe Brady told Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News on Thursday that the wide receiver was "going to be able to do everything he can to be able to rock this week." Moore then managed just one limited session (Saturday) during Week 5 prep, which wasn't enough for him to gain clearance to play Monday. We expect him back this week, but he may be limited. With both Moore and Joshua Palmer (shoulder) unavailable, Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Greg Dortch, Skyler Bell and Trent Sherfield will handle WR reps for the Bills.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba vs Broncos
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision) and has a tough matchup. As he's the #1 WR in fantasy, he's got to be in your lineup, but expect a less than stellar week this week with this matchup.

STEFON DIGGS vs 49ers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). After missing practice time earlier in the week, Diggs was ruled out for Week 5. Terry McLaurin, on the other hand, is expected to play through a hamstring injury, though Quinn wasn't quite ready to guarantee it Friday afternoon. With Diggs definitely out, there will be extra WR snaps available for some combination of Antonio Williams, Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown. As for this week, don't expect a great game with him dinged up against the 49ers who have the 8th best defense against fantasy WRs.

Start Matthew Golden vs Cowboys As good as Golden's afternoon was, he was actually slightly outshined by fellow wideout Christian Watson, who had 20 more receiving yards on the same number of catches and one additional target. Nevertheless, Golden's afternoon included a new career high in receiving yards, as well as a career-high-tying reception total. The second-year speedster is already well on his way to a breakout campaign, and he now has had at least seven targets in four of his first five games. The 2025 first-round pick will take a 24-397-2 line on 44 targets into a favorable Week 6 home matchup against the Cowboys next Sunday night.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 84 1

Start MIKE EVANS vs Commanders The Commanders rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Evans is simply amazing. Battling a rib injury, Evans did what he usually does and that's perform at a high level, making contested catches and coming up clutch when his team needed him to. Clearly the top option at receiver for the 49ers, Evans will continue to be a lineup staple each and every week. He's a prime trade candidate for any contending team, though we've said that for about five years running now.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 86 1

Start Parker Washington vs Texans Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. After a disappointing week four, Washington crushed the Eagles in this one as we saw what promises to be one of the best fantasy performances of the week prior to the early window even opening. Washington is explosive in the open field and the dynamic receiver has clearly cemented himself as the top target in Jacksonville. His dynasty arrow will continue to go up after a brief pause last week. He's a WR1 and weekly must start at this point and this week's matchup against the #31 defense against fantasy WRs for the 13th ranked WR, is a great play.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 86 1

Start Tetairoa McMillan vs Eagles A week after catching two passes for just 17 yards, McMillan just shredded the Lions defense. While that seems to be happening often these days, McMillan still showed what dynasty managers have known for a while - he can put up WR1 numbers on any given week. This was a nice bounce-back performance from McMillan and hopefully the start of a solid run of good games. Any quick "buy low" window on McMillan has certainly closed. He should fare very well against an Eagles pass defense that has allowed th 5th most fantasy points to WRs.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 7 95 1

Start Tre Tucker vs Bills The Bills rank #31 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings and 32 against fantasy WRs. Tucker finished second on the team in receptions behind star tight end Brock Bowers (eight) while his 41 receiving yards ranked fourth on the day for Las Vegas. The wide receiver has now posted nearly identical production in three straight contests, finishing with exactly four receptions for a little over 40 yards in each game. Through five games this season, Tucker has caught 19 of 27 targets for 274 yards and a touchdown while operating as the Raiders' top option at wide receiver.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 5 75 1

Rewards...

CeeDee Lamb vs Packers
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. This was quite the change from last Sunday when Lamb caught 17-of-21 targets for 189 yards and a touchdown. Some of this can be attributed to a quad injury he suffered in the game but it's probably more on the Bucs simply forcing someone else to try to beat them. Lamb will revert back to WR1 status next week as long as his quad cooperates, which seems likely.

Christian Watson vs Cowboys
- Watson is the #4 fantasy WR and should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. It seems the Packers have lacked a true WR1 ever since Davante Adams left for the Raiders. Well, it also seems they've found it in Watson, who has been fantastic all season and now has a whopping six touchdown receptions in just five games. Dynasty managers will hope he keeps it rolling as a WR1 moving forward as his dynasty value continues to rise.

DAVANTE ADAMS vs Cardinals
-  Matthew Stafford showered unprecedented attention on Puka Nacua in the form of 24 targets, but Adams still put together a highly useful fantasy performance via his pair of touchdown grabs. Adams went in from four and five yards out in the second and fourth quarters, respectively. Adams' catch and receiving yardage totals were all his third highest of the campaign, and the veteran wideout will next take aim at the Cardinals defense in a Week 6 divisional home matchup on Sunday.

Drake London vs Bears
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. London has recorded at least 96 receiving yards in three consecutive games since Michael Penix (ribs) made his season debut after missing the first two games of the season due to a knee injury, but Atlanta's top wideout is still searching for his first touchdown of the season. Penix sustained a rib injury late in the fourth quarter, and London had a 20-yard catch in overtime on a pass from Tua Tagovailoa, but Tagovailoa's next pass intended for London resulted in a game-losing interception. London should continue to lead Atlanta's passing game regardless of whom the Falcons start under center in Week 6 against the Bears. It does look like Penix is a go, so that should help London more.

Garrett Wilson vs Patriots
-  Wilson has proved over and over again he can be productive no matter the quarterback, weather, opponent, or anything else. The Jets offense has been far from explosive but Wilson just defies logic. He'll continue to be a WR1 moving forward this season as dynasty managers eternally wonder what kind of numbers he'd put up if he ever had a truly dominant supporting cast. Regardless, Wilson remains a dynasty staple.

Germie Bernard vs Buccaneers
- Bernard should be a good waiver wire add with Wilson and Pittman out. He has a chance to put up good numbers against a middling Bucs defense.

Josh Downs vs Titans
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. The fourth-year wideout had the Colts' longest play of the day, a 42-yard connection with Daniel Jones in the second quarter that helped set up the team's only touchdown of the afternoon, but Downs was otherwise held in check. Downs is still looking for his first TD of 2026, and despite being Jones' top healthy WR he's managed just a 20-249-0 line on 34 targets through five games. He'll look to hit paydirt in Week 6 against the winless Titans.

Nico Collins vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #29 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The Texans got right on both sides of the ball in their first win of the season, with Collins leading the team in targets and tying Jaylin Noel for the lead in receptions while Xavier Hutchinson topped them both in receiving yards. The trio will get some additional competition as soon as a Week 6 clash with Jacksonville after Houston traded for Marvin Harrison on Sunday, but Collins should remain the top option for C.J. Stroud as long as he remains healthy. Through three games this season, Collins has a 19-249-3 line on 25 targets.

Puka Nacua vs Cardinals
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Nacua's jaw-dropping stat line included new career highs in receptions and targets, as well as a team-high figure in receiving yards. The prolific receiver monopolized Matthew Stafford's attention even more than usual, although the one positive for the Bills defense is it did a solid job keeping Nacua from doing much damage after the catch. The third-year pro also recorded his first receiving touchdown of the season on a picturesque two-yard over-the-shoulder catch early in the fourth quarter, and with his production Monday, he nearly made up for his two-game absence earlier in the campaign. Nacua will take a 31-337-1 line on 45 targets into a Week 6 divisional home matchup against the Cardinals on Sunday.

Wan'Dale Robinson vs Colts
-  The Colts rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The 53 yards led the Titans on the afternoon, while the target and catch volume led the team's wide receivers, although running back Tyjae Spears posted a 9-28-0 line on nine targets. Robinson's strength on short routes out of the slot is matching well with Cam Ward's reluctance to stretch the field, and through five games for Tennessee the veteran wideout has a 22-176-2 line on 30 targets. He'll look to keep stacking PPR value in a Week 6 clash with the Colts.

Zay Flowers vs Browns
-  Flowers led the Ravens in catches and targets from backup QB Tyler Huntley while finishing nine receiving yards short of Rashod Bateman's team-leading total as the Ravens escaped with a road win Sunday night despite the absence of starting QB Lamar Jackson (ankle). Jackson reportedly has a chance to return as soon as Week 6 in Cleveland, but Flowers showed he can still be reasonably productive with Huntley throwing him passes. Flowers also took a two-yard sack on a trick play and had a would-be 26-yard catch negated on Baltimore's final drive of regulation because the Ravens instead accepted a 29-yard pass-interference penalty that he drew. The speedy wideout sat out Week 2 due to a hamstring injury and was listed as questionable heading into Sunday's OT win due to a foot injury, but he should be expected to continue suiting up barring a setback.

Sit Brenton Strange vs Texans After breaking out for a 7-95-0 line last week, Strange tied that season high in catches, although for less yardage. The tight end is re-establishing himself as Trevor Lawrence's preferred safety valve, which should assure him a solid floor for volume. Strange will take a 21-235-1 line on 26 targets through five games into a Week 6 clash with the Texans. The hard part is that the Texans rank 6th against fantasy TEs.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 36 0

Sit HUNTER HENRY vs Jets Henry was able to reel in at least three passes for the fourth time this season, and his biggest moment of the game came in the second quarter when Drake Maye connected with him for an 11-yard score. The tight end has now caught 15 of 19 targets for 177 yards and a touchdown over the first five games of the season. However, this week he faces a Jets defense that ranks 5th against TEs.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 34 0

Sit Kyle Pitts Sr. vs Bears Pitts scored his first touchdown of the season on a five-yard reception in the second quarter. He has stirred to life after a painfully slow start, recording eight catches for 89 yards and a TD over the last two games after having just two catches for 20 yards through Week 3. Michael Penix sustained a rib injury late in the game, and while Tua Tagovailoa proceeded to throw the game-losing interception in overtime, it's worth noting that Pitts was Tagovailoa's primary target in the preseason. Atlanta's QB situation will bear monitoring ahead of a Week 6 home game against the Bears, but it does look like Penix is set to play. Meanwhile, Pitts' matchup against Da Bears D that has allowed the 3rd fewest fantasy points to TEs doesn't bode well.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 41 0

Risks...

Chig Okonkwo vs 49ers
-  Okonkwo had his most productive day of the year, finishing tied for the team lead in receptions with wide receiver Terry McLaurin while his six targets led the way for Washington. The tight end has now caught eight of 13 targets for 81 yards over three contests this season, and he'll look to continue building his chemistry with starting quarterback Jayden Daniels moving forward. This week he faces a 49ers defense that ranks 4th against fantasy TEs.

DALLAS GOEDERT vs Panthers
-  The Panthers rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Back in the lineup after a two-game absence due to a knee injury, Goedert led the Eagles in targets and receptions, although the volume didn't lead to much yardage. With the Philly backfield and wide receiver room depleted by injuries, the veteran tight end could well remain Jalen Hurts' favorite option in the short term. Goedert will take an 11-119-2 line on 16 targets through three contests into a Week 6 clash with the Panthers.

DALTON SCHULTZ vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #29 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Schultz has now caught three or fewer passes while failing to exceed 30 receiving yards in three straight contests. The tight end has garnered just nine targets since Week 2 after he caught 16 of 22 targets for 175 yards over the first two weeks of the season. Schultz may have a tough time getting back on track against the Jaguars' impressive defense in Week 6. The Jags rank 7th against fantasy TEs.

EVAN ENGRAM vs Seahawks
-  The Seahawks rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Engram was held to one or zero receptions for the third straight game, but his five targets matched his season high through four contests. The tight end has produced a meager 66 receiving yards and one touchdown on six catches over 13 targets so far in 2026, making him an especially unattractive fantasy asset.

Trey McBride vs Rams
-  The Rams rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings and #1 against fantasy TEs. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to take a step back from his usually high productivity this week.

Start GEORGE KITTLE vs Commanders The Commanders rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Kittle had an uncharacteristic third-down drop on San Francisco's opening drive but caught his other five targets to finish second on the 49ers in receiving yards despite playing through an illness. Mike Evans easily led the team with seven catches for 113 yards and a touchdown on 10 targets in Sunday's win. Kittle will have an extra day to recover before the Commanders come to town for Monday Night Football in Week 6.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 76 1

Start Pat Freiermuth vs Buccaneers The veteran tight end connected with Aaron Rodgers on a one-yard score in the second quarter and a 17-yard strike in the fourth. Freiermuth is up to four touchdowns through five games to begin the season, already matching his total over 17 regular-season contests in 2025, and his 19 catches has him on pace to match the career-high 65 passes he hauled in during 2024. Freiermuth will look to keep rolling in a Week 6 road trip to Tampa Bay. With Wilson and Pittman dinged up, Muth should see a bigger pass-catching role.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 5 51 1

Start TYLER HIGBEE vs Cardinals Higbee finished a distant second in receiving yards to Puka Nacua for the Rams on the night, but the figure was a season high for the veteran tight end. After a forgettable two-game stretch to open the season, Higbee has taken the lead Los Angeles' crowded tight-end room over the last three games by posting an 18-212-1 line on 23 targets. Higbee should have a good chance of retaining a solid complementary role in a Week 6 home divisional clash against the suspect Cardinals defense on Sunday. The Cards have allowed the 5th most fantasy points to TEs, so this is a plus matchup.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 5 52 1

Rewards...

Brock Bowers vs Bills
-  The Bills rank #31 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He did lose a fumble, but otherwise Bowers was the only Raider to put together a strong performance in the rout, catching a 13-yard TD from Kirk Cousins in the first quarter to tie the game at 7-7 before things got out of hand. The superstar tight end has gotten into the end zone in all three of his games this season and topped 100 yards twice, compiling a 24-312-3 line on 35 targets. Fernando Mendoza saw his first NFL action on Las Vegas' final drive after the team had pulled its starters, including Bowers, so the duo didn't get a chance to start building any chemistry. Bowers will look to keep rolling in a Week 6 clash with the Bills.

Isaiah Likely vs Saints
- Likely has clearly found his footing with old Head Coach John Harbaugh and has established himself as a weekly TE1 in the process. With four touchdowns in just five games, Likely is on pace for the career season many dynasty managers were hoping for. At this point, Likely is a "set it and forget it" option moving forward and his dynasty value continues to rise.

Oronde Gadsden vs Chiefs
- With all the injuries at TE and WR, TE Oronde Gadsden should see extra looks in this scenario. Especially since the Chiefs have allowed the 2nd most fantasy points to TEs. While Gadsden didn't perform last week, look for a bounce back this week.

Tucker Kraft vs Cowboys
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Kraft was an ideal complementary piece alongside top receivers Christian Watson and Matthew Golden, who combined for 12 receptions for 266 yards and two touchdowns (Watson) on the afternoon. Kraft still managed to finish with his second-highest reception and receiving yardage totals of the season, and he should remain busy in what is likely to be a high-scoring Week 6 home showdown against the Cowboys next Sunday night.

Tyler Warren vs Titans
- The second-year tight end led the Colts in catches and receiving yards while tying Keenan Allen for the team lead in targets, and Warren produced Indy's only TD of the game with his goal-line plunge in the second quarter. Warren is seeing strong volume as one of the few pass catchers Daniel Jones can rely on, and through five games he's delivered a 30-213-2 line on 36 targets. Given Jones' lack of options, Warren could be busy again in Week 6 against the winless Titans.

Sit Cameron Dicker vs Chiefs Dicker got the Chargers on the board with a 42-yard field goal in the second quarter before adding two PATs in the second half. Dicker has attempted one field goal or zero in three of the first five games of the regular season and has yet to make a field goal from 50-plus yards. He's 7-for-9 on field-goal attempts and 9-for-9 on extra-point tries heading into a Week 6 road matchup Oct. 18 against the Chiefs, who are coming off a bye. Dicker averages just 6 fantasy points per game, so Dicker shouldn't be your kicker.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 1 2 2

Sit Tyler Bass vs Raiders Bass was the hero last week with the game winner in OT on Monday night, but even at that he only ranks in the middle of the pack for kicker scoring. However, the Raiders have allowed the 3rd fewest fantasy points to kickers.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 0 1 4

Risks...

BRANDON AUBREY vs Packers
-  Aubrey didn't get many opportunities to kick, but he did nail a 41-yard FG just before halftime. The All-Pro kicker is now 9-for-12 on field-goal tries this season, with all of his misses (including two that were blocked) coming from at least 59 yards out. Aubrey is still one of the league's elite kickers, and he figures to continue getting opportunities from very deep considering the strength of his leg. He's a great kicker, but this isn't a great matchup as the Packers have allowed the 2nd fewest fantasy points to kickers.

DANIEL CARLSON vs ?
- Carlson ranks near the bottom of the list in kicker scoring and has a tough matchup against the Giants who have allowed the fewest points to kickers.

JAKE ELLIOTT vs Panthers
-  Elliott's only field-goal try came late in the fourth quarter, when he knocked through his 48-yard attempt to give the Eagles a 17-16 lead with only eight seconds left to play. He has yet to miss a kick through five regular-season games, though he's made only one field goal or zero in four of those contests. Elliott's scoring floor ceiling figures to be limited given that the Eagles' offense has the second-fewest yards per game (262.2) and ranks in the bottom-5 in points allowed per game (18.4). The Eagles will be home for four of their next five games, starting with Week 6 against the Panthers on Oct. 18. However, Elliot averages barely over 6 points per game.

NICK FOLK vs Bears
-  All three of Folk's field goals came in the second half, including a 48-yarder late in the fourth quarter to give the Falcons a 23-15 lead. His three made field goals were his most of the season, and after missing three kicks in each of his first two games, Folk has made all six of his field-goal tries over his last three outings. The Falcons will stay home for Week 6 against the Bears on Oct. 18. However, the Bears rank 6th against fantasy kickers.

Start Cam Little vs Texans The Jaguars looked dead in the water after Eagles' kicker Jake Elliott connected on a 48-yard field goal to give Philadelphia a 17-16 lead with only eight seconds left in the fourth quarter. However, Ameer Abdullah gave Jacksonville hope with a 53-yard return on the ensuing kickoff, and Little answered the call with a 57-yard field goal to seal the victory for the Jaguars. Little is 9-for-11 on field-goal attempts through five regular-season games, with both of those misses coming from 50-plus yards. The Jaguars will stay in London for Week 6 to face the Texans in an AFC South showdown. Being that the Texans allow the 6th most points to fantasy kickers, this should be a good matchup.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Start Spencer Shrader vs Titans Shrader leads the league in fantasy kicker ppg and should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. This week is especially juicy as the Titans have allowed the 3rd most fantasy points to kickers. Quarterback Daniel Jones led the Colts on six offensive drives during Sunday's loss, though only one of those drives ended with a touchdown. That meant a busy day for Shrader, who made field goals from 57 and 56 yards in the first half before connecting on three more kicks from 22, 40 and 28 yards in the second. His five made field goals were his most in a game since Week 2 of the 2025 season, and he's attempted at least three field goals in each of the Colts' last four games. His 16 made field goals through five regular-season games leads the NFL, and he also leads all kickers with six made field goals from 50-plus yards. The Colts have a juicy Week 6 matchup against the 0-5 Titans on Oct. 18.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Rewards...

CHASE MCLAUGHLIN vs Steelers
-  McLaughlin made all three of his PAT tries before nailing a 41-yard field goal late in the third quarter. He could have had an additional chip-shot FG midway through the fourth, but the Buccaneers somewhat surprisingly tried (and failed) to get into the end zone on a fourth-and-goal play from the 1-yard line when a field goal would have given them a three-score lead. Regardless, McLaughlin looked fine after missing practice Tuesday with a right groin/hip issue, and he's now a perfect 10-for-10 on field-goal attempts this season. He has a nice matchup as the Steelers have allowed the most fantasy points to kickers.

CHRIS BOSWELL vs Buccaneers
-  Boswell's 48-yard field goal late in the second quarter gave the Steelers a 17-13 halftime lead, and the veteran kicker finished Sunday's scoring with a 54-yard field goal late in the fourth. The Steelers' offense under QB Aaron Rodgers has looked significantly better over the past three weeks, which will help with Boswell's scoring floor. He's 9-for-12 on field-goal attempts and 10-for-10 on extra-point tries through five games heading into a Week 6 road tilt against the Buccaneers on Oct. 18. Keep in mind, the Bucs have allowed the 2nd most fantasy points to kickers.

EDDY PIÑEIRO vs Commanders
-  Pineiro's 52-yard field-goal try early in the third quarter went wide left, but he made up for that miss with a 44-yard field goal late in the fourth in what ended up being the game-winning kick for the 49ers. The veteran kicker has gone 5-for-8 on field-goal attempts through the first five games of the regular season, although each of those misses have come from 50-plus yards. Pineiro is also 17-for-19 on extra-point tries, and those 17 made PATs are second-most in the NFL behind Jake Bates (20). The 49ers will head back to San Francisco for Week 6 to host the Commanders on Monday, Oct. 19. He does have a nice matchup against Washington who has allowed the 4th most points to fantasy kickers.

Ryan Fitzgerald vs Eagles
-  Though his successful field goals of 33 and 47 yards helped provide the Panthers with enough cushion in the win, Fitzgerald's misfires on extra points following touchdowns in the second and third quarters could begin to cost him some job security. His first miss struck the right upright, while his second miss wasn't particularly close after he shanked the kick wide right. Fitzgerald has now missed three of his 13 extra-point tries on the season, after going 27-for-30 on those attempts as a rookie in 2025. He currently ranks 6th in kicker scoring, so he's a decent bet again this week.

Tyler Loop vs Browns
-  All three of Loop's made field goals came in the first half, the last two of which both came from 51 yards. It was his first game of the season of at least three field goals, and his five makes from 50-plus yards are tied for second-most in the NFL behind Spencer Shrader (six). Loop is 9-for-11 on field-goal attempts and 15-for-15 on PATs through five regular-season games, and the Ravens will hit the road for a Week 6 AFC North clash against the Browns on Oct. 18. The Browns allow the 7th most fantasy points to kickers and Loop ranks 5th in kicker scoring.

Sit Cleveland Browns vs Ravens Baltimore ranks 24th fantasy points allowed to opposing D/STs, making it one of the less favorable offenses to target. Cleveland's ability to create sacks and pressure the quarterback gives it some upside, but Baltimore's rushing threat and ability to sustain drives make the matchup less attractive.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Sit Las Vegas Raiders vs Bills Las Vegas has produced, with 13 sacks and 7.4 points per game and 10 takeaways, tied for the most in the league with a fantasy D/ST that ranks 6th. Additionally, Buffalo has 9 giveaways over its last three games. But the underlying Raiders defense is shaky, 27th in yards allowed and 28th against the run. Meanwhile, the Bills lead the league with 32.8 points per game and rank first in EPA per play. Josh Allen’s legs blunt the pass rush, since he leads all quarterbacks with 239 rushing yards and ran for 121 on Monday night.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Risks...

Arizona Cardinals vs Rams
- Arizona is 27th among D/STs at 3.6 points per game, with 11 sacks and 3 interceptions and only 3.7% rostered. Through Week 5 the defense was third-most generous to QBs, fourth to WRs, and fourth to TEs. The Rams are 12.5-point favorites in a 52-point game. The Rams’ offense is only mid-pack for D/STs at 8.0 points per game, and it has given up six interceptions. That’s the one soft spot, but Arizona hasn’t shown it can capitalize.

Dallas Cowboys vs Packers
- Dallas has scored 7 total fantasy points in five games (1.4 per game), with 5 sacks and no interceptions. They’re last in EPA per play, success rate, and yards per play allowed and 29th in sack rate. As a result they rank 32 in fantasy defense scoring. No need to bother with them this week.

Green Bay Packers vs Cowboys
- Green Bay’s defense has 14 sacks and 7 interceptions, 6.0 points per game, including five forced turnovers against Chicago. That’s a turnover-heavy profile, and research found that sacks and takeaways don’t carry over from week to week. Chasing last week’s spike is the trap. Dallas is scoring 27.6 points per game. The offense gives opposing D/STs only 5.6 points per game, tied for fourth-fewest, and has allowed just 6 sacks. Prescott has been well protected, so the sack-driven path to points is capped.

Houston Texans vs Jaguars
- The Texans are 96.2% rostered, with 18 sacks and 6.8 points per game, so many managers will be tempted. The Jaguars’ offense gives D/STs just 5.6 points per game, tied for fourth-fewest. Trevor Lawrence has a 106.8 passer rating and only 3 turnovers lost on the team. With Pitre dinged up, don't expect them to feast on the Jags, but the Jags starting OT is out for this game, opening the door for more sacks and maybe a hurried throw into the traffic. Still, the Jags have allowed the 4th fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Philadelphia Eagles vs Panthers
- Their offense leads the league in three-and-outs, and the defense is tied for second-most snaps (332). That wears a unit down, and Philadelphia sits at 16th-17th in most sites' power rankings. The Panthers offense ranks 6th against fantasy D/STs and the Eagles’ defense hasn’t been helpful for fantasy this season, even at home.

Washington Commanders vs 49ers
- Power rankings have Washington last in second-half points allowed per game (19), with 20 or more points given up after halftime in each of the last four games, including a blown two-touchdown lead. The unit is also 28th in second-half sack rate, so it isn’t compensating with pressure. Meanwhile, San Francisco is the worst possible opponent. The 49ers are 7.5-point favorites in a game with a total around 50.5, which puts them near 29 points in this matchup. Brock Purdy is in the MVP conversation, and the offense is scoring over 30 points per game as they have allowed the third fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Start Kansas City Chiefs vs Chargers The Chiefs have the best matchup this week and are usually good at accumulating takeaways after a Bye week. The Chargers’ offense gives D/STs 12.8 points per game, the most in the league. They have allowed 17 sacks and 7 interceptions. Justin Herbert has thrown an interception in every game, and their O-line allowed nine sacks over the past two weeks.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 5 1 1

Start New England Patriots vs Jets The Patriots average 7.4 points per game (eighth), with 11 sacks and 3 interceptions. The Jets’ offense is a middling matchup at 7.8 points per game to D/STs. The edge is in the sacks. The Jets have allowed 16 sacks. The caution is New England’s cornerback health, which will have more clarity later in the week with the injuries.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 1

Rewards...

Indianapolis Colts vs Titans
- The Titans’ offense gives D/STs 11.2 points per game, the fifth-most, and ranks last in both points per game and yards per game. The Colts may be a nice value streaming option this week.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs Buccaneers
- The Steelers average 7.6 points per game (tied for 5th), with 11 sacks, 4 interceptions, 4 fumble recoveries, and a defensive touchdown. Tampa Bay’s offense gives D/STs 12.2 points per game, second-most, including 17 sacks allowed and 2 defensive touchdowns.

Seattle Seahawks vs Broncos
- Seattle has a good matchup being they score 8.8 points per game (tied for second), with 14 sacks and 7 interceptions. The Broncos’ offense is a middling matchup at 6.8 points per game to D/STs.

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