Sit or Start for Week 3

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Sit Kyler Murray vs 49ers Kyler Murray has looked healthy and sensational in spurts so far in 2025. Consistency has always been the Cardinals' QBs bugaboo, but fantasy managers have to be impressed with what they have seen early in the season. Arizona has a tough road challenge against formidable 49ers front seven. The 49ers rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 22 34 64.7 210 16 1 1

Sit MATTHEW STAFFORD vs Eagles Puka Nacua and Davante Adams form one of the best wide receiver tandems in the NFL. One of the only remaining pocket passers from an earlier generation of quarterbacks, Stafford put on a clinic against the Titans in Week 2. With Nacua and Adams combining for 242 yards from scrimmage and two scores last week, it's all systems go for this Rams offense. The Rams had a good day in Tennessee despite Adams and Stafford failing to connect on multiple red-zone targets. Considering that Adams is one of the most prolific touchdown scorers of the last decade, this offense is only going to get better as the season goes on. Stafford's next four games are against quality teams (Eagles, Colts, 49ers, Ravens), and Stafford will need to continue to lean on his top playmakers to keep the Rams in those games. That rough gauntlet starts this week against the Eagles, who rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 22 35 62.85 221 1 1 1

Risks...

Jayden Daniels vs Raiders
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision).Daniels status being in doubt is huge news for fantasy managers. He came up limping towards the end of the Packers game, and while the severity is unknown, you’d have to think the Commanders will take their time nursing their franchise QB back to health. Were he to miss, Marcus Mariota is the top backup in the Washington depth chart.

Daniel Jones vs Titans
-  The Titans rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Seeing Daniel Jones become a fantasy QB1 is like looking at a Picasso. You may not know what's going on, but you don't want to take your eyes off it. Seriously, this is not your dad's Daniel Jones. Before Week 2, the last time Jones had passed for 300 yards was Week 2 of 2023. Now with the Colts, Jones has been balling out, rushing for three touchdowns and passing for 588 yards in his first two games. Although his upcoming schedule is not the most appealing, after seeing what he did against an elite Broncos defense in Week 2, he should be played every week. Plug your nose, close your eyes, give him a different name. Do whatever you need to do to stomach seeing him in your lineup. Grab your Pepto-Bismol and get yourself a weekly top-12 quarterback for the 2025 season.

BAKER MAYFIELD vs Jets
-  The Jets rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. It wasn’t a stellar game for Baker, who struggled at times getting the ball to his receivers and caused his own fumble that was recovered by Rachaad White, but it was still a good fantasy performance. Baker has been rushing more since the beginning of the 2024 season, and that will certainly help raise his floor.

Spencer Rattler vs Seahawks
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week.Rattler found modest success against the San Francisco defense Sunday, completing 73.5% of his pass attempts in the loss. The quarterback remains a risky option in all formats for fantasy managers ahead of a tough Week 3 contest against the Seahawks.

GENO SMITH vs Commanders
-  The Commanders rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Smith looked terrible on Monday night. His completion percentage was poor and he threw three different interceptions against the Chargers, leading the team to just nine points in a loss. He should bounce back and play better than this in the near future, but his play may continue to limit the upside of someone like Brock Bowers on this offense.

RUSSELL WILSON vs Chiefs
- After completing fewer than half of his pass attempts and throwing zero touchdown passes in the Giants' 21-6 loss to the Commanders in Week 1, Russell Wilson erupted for 450 passing yards and three touchdowns in a 40-37 overtime loss to the Commanders in Week 2. It was nice to see Wilson turn back the clock in that barnburner in Dallas. Just don't count on seeing many encores. The 36-year-old Wilson is probably just keeping the seat warm for first-round rookie Jaxson Dart.

Start C.J. Stroud vs Jaguars Call this our last shot at providing the under-performing Stroud with a vote of confidence! Stroud has not gotten off to a great start in 2025, with just one touchdown through two games. On the bright side, Stroud has run for at least 27 yards in each game so far, putting him on pace to break his personal rushing records. That will certainly boost his floor; he just needs to get things together in the passing game to truly achieve a ceiling. This could be theweek that happens for both him and Nico Collins against a suspect division rival in Jacksonville. The Jaguars rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 24 37 64.86 293 16 3 0

Start Caleb Williams vs Cowboys Williams’ 207 yards and two TDs, paired with 27 rushing yards, nudge him toward QB2 status despite the lopsided defeat. His 28- and 6-yard connections with Rome Odunze signal growing promise. In both of Williams' outings, the second-year pro played well in the first half, but he faded in the second half. Williams has a good chance to put it all together in a very promising Week 3 home match-up against a leaky Dallas Cowboys defense that has surrendered the third-most quarterback fantasy points. This matchup has shootout potential. Start him as a mid-tier QB1 option for Week 3 with upside.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 24 39 61.53 299 32 3 0

Rewards...

Josh Allen vs Dolphins
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Allen did not have to do much Sunday, as the Buffalo offense rushed for 224 yards and three touchdowns against the Jets. The quarterback remains an elite option for fantasy managers in all formats ahead of a favorable Week 3 contest against the Miami Dolphins.

JARED GOFF vs Ravens
-  The Ravens rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week.Goff’s 334 yards and five TDs catapult him to a top-tier QB1, spreading wealth to Brock Wright, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams. Facing the Ravens’ stout defense on September 22 tests his encore, but his 0-INT day boosts confidence. Start him as a must-roster option for Week 3.

Lamar Jackson vs Lions
-  The Lions rank #28 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. Jackson continues a dynamic start to the season behind center, finishing with three or more touchdowns in both of the first two games for the Ravens. The athletic quarterback continues to provide fantasy managers with an elite option in lineups in all formats, with a Week 3 Monday night matchup against the Lions up next.

DAK PRESCOTT vs Bears
- Prescott’s 361 yards and two TDs lift him to a solid QB1 status, shrugging off a quiet Week 1 with aerial firepower. Facing a Bears defense shredded for five passing TDs by Jared Goff, he’s primed for another big outing. Lock him in as a must-start for Week 3.

Tua Tagovailoa vs Bills
- Tagovailoa’s 315 yards and two TDs fuel a QB1 surge, though the interception tempers his Week 2 glow against a tough Patriots D. His links to Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane keep him a must-start for Thursday’s Bills showdown.

Sit J.K. Dobbins vs Chargers Dobbins continued to work clearly as the top back in Denver, tallying 15 touches compared to six for RJ Harvey. Dobbins was also the more effective back, highlighted by long runs of 23 and 18 yards. The primary negative to his performance came near the goal line, as he was stuffed from the one-yard line on two separate drives before finally scoring from five yards away early in the third quarter. While those were lost opportunities for Dobbins, he has found the end zone in each of Denver's first two games while combining to rush for 138 yards.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 12 42 1 4 0

Sit Breece Hall vs Buccaneers The Buccaneers rank #5 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Hall finished second on the team in both rushing yards and receiving yards, as Garrett Wilson (50) was the only Jet to reach double digits in the latter category. Justin Fields couldn't get anything going through the air prior to sustaining a concussion in the fourth quarter, and the lack of any passing threat made it hard for Hall to find any holes against a front-loaded Bills defense. Backup Braelon Allen handled just two carries, so at least Hall's locked in as the lead back heading into a Week 3 trip to Tampa Bay.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 13 43 2 11 0

Sit Omarion Hampton vs Broncos The Broncos rank #3 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Hampton was deployed as the every-down starter Friday, generating 15 more combined touches than Najee Harris (eye). The team could have been easing Harris back after suffering an eye injury that held the back out for all of training camp and the preseason, but the stark difference in touches points the fantasy value arrow strongly in Hampton's direction to kick off the year. If the North Carolina product continues to dominate the backfield touches moving forward, he could prove to be an even greater draft day steal than managers originally hoped. Hampton's volume combined with a plus matchup against the Raiders next Monday make him a solid play in Week 2.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 10 34 2 9 0

Sit Tyrone Tracy Jr. vs Chiefs The second-year back tied for third on the Giants in targets with tight end Theo Johnson, but Tracy saw 2025 fourth-round pick Cam Skattebo emerge as a serious threat to his early-down workload with 45 rushing yards and a TD on 11 totes. Given that the 0-2 Giants could be playing from behind a lot this season, primarily being used on passing downs should still lead to a significant role for Tracy, but Skattebo's performance still doesn't bode well for his backfield mate's fantasy value. The split in touches between the two should become a little clearer in Week 3 against Kansas City.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 8 31 2 6 0

Risks...

Chase Brown vs Vikings
-  The Vikings rank #2 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Brown was the only Bengals running back to record a carry for the second straight game to begin the season. However, he was also extremely inefficient once again, averaging only 2.9 yards per attempt with a long of just 11 yards. This performance was a bit more justifiable, as Jake Browning entered the game halfway through the second quarter after Joe Burrow (toe) was sidelined, allowing the Jaguars to focus on short areas of the field defensively. The Bengals don't have strong alternatives to Brown for carries, but he now has only 90 rushing yards on 37 attempts across the first two games of the campaign.

Nick Chubb vs Jaguars
- Chubb was having trouble finding running room for most of this contest before finally ripping off a 25-yard touchdown scamper late in the fourth quarter. The 29-year-old continued dominating Houston's backfield touches sans Joe Mixon (foot/ankle), with rookie Woody Marks' three carries checking in a distant second behind the veteran starter. Chubb is looking like a solid flex candidate Week 3 heading into a potential soft matchup against the Jaguars on Sunday.

Jahmyr Gibbs vs Ravens
-  The Ravens rank #1 in our Run 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. Although Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown mostly stole the show in Detroit's jaw-dropping offensive breakout, Gibbs rather quietly put together a fruitful fantasy performance. The dynamic back outpaced David Montgomery by one carry and 37 rushing yards, with Gibbs' game-long 42-yard scamper the big difference between the two backfield mates. Gibbs also recorded his first rushing touchdown of the season on a six-yard run in the first quarter, which served to round out his production on a day where he was limited to a mid-level workload. Gibbs will look to navigate a particularly challenging matchup when the Lions travel to Baltimore to face the Ravens in a Week 3 Monday night showdown on Sept. 22.

DERRICK HENRY vs Lions
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. The offense ran through Lamar Jackson and his pass catchers Sunday, as the star signal-caller finished with four touchdown passes and turned in a turnover-free performance. In contrast, Henry was consistently bottled up, and considering eight of his yards came on one carry, he truly found next to no running room throughout the afternoon. After a spectacular first three-plus quarters of the new season, Henry's fortunes have taken a turn for the worse beginning with his critical fumble in the final quarter of the Week 1 loss to the Bills. His next opportunity to reverse course will come in a Week 3 home interconference clash against the Lions on Monday night, Sept. 22.

Rhamondre Stevenson vs Steelers
-  The Steelers rank #4 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Stevenson set a new career high in receiving yards, fueled by a 55-yard reception in the third quarter. He operated as the lead back while rookie second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson and Antonio Gibson combined for eight carries and three targets, though Gibson also contributed a kickoff return touchdown on special teams. Stevenson is the team's preferred option on early downs, and he could hold off the alternatives in passing situations if he continues to shine as a pass catcher like he did Sunday. The 27-year-old running back's fantasy value is trending up ahead of a Week 3 home game against a Steelers run defense that has struggled to begin the season.

Kyren Williams vs Eagles
-  Williams dominated touches out of the Rams' backfield for the most of the game, but he was inefficient once again. He delivered 12- and 15-yard rushes late in the fourth quarter to salvage his day, but that came one drive after he ceded a possession to Blake Corum that concluded with Corum in the end zone. Corum's opportunity was likely due to the Rams being up two scores midway through the fourth quarter, but Williams' usage in the red zone will remain worth monitoring. He gets a tough draw this week against the Eagles.

Start De'Von Achane vs Bills The Dolphins were already down 12-0 at the end of one quarter, which immediately put Achane in catch-up mode when it came to consistent rushing opportunities. As his final line indicates, those remained relatively sparse overall, but game script did work in his favor when it came to his pass-catching role. Achane finished as the Dolphins' leader in both receptions and targets, while finishing second to only Tyreek Hill in receiving yards. Achane also went in for his second receiving touchdown in as many games to open the season when he recorded an impressive 29-yard grab late in the first half, and he'll be slated for a key two-way role again during what is already essentially a must-win scenario for the Dolphins in a Week 3 Thursday night road matchup against the Bills.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 95 4 34 1

Start Travis Etienne Jr. vs Texans Etienne went a long way toward proving his breakout Week 1 performance was no fluke, as he averaged 5.1 yards per carry while comfortably pacing the Jaguars in rush attempts and rushing yards. The versatile veteran also made his mark as a receiver via an 11-yard touchdown catch with just over four minutes remaining in the third quarter, his first score of any kind in the new season. With ex-backfield mate Tank Bigsby now in Philadelphia, Etienne looks entrenched as the clear-cut No. 1 back in head coach Liam Coen's productive offense going into a Week 3 home divisional matchup against the Texans next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 76 4 24 1

Start Jordan Mason vs Bengals Mason was already seeing early-down work before co-starter Aaron Jones (hamstring) was forced out of the contest with an injury. The latter did not return Sunday, and Jones' status going forward is currently unclear. The gradual shift by Minnesota's coaching staff towards the younger, more-explosive Mason early in the season was clear, and the injury to his backfield mate only solidifies that movement. Managers should look past this statistical dud and start Mason with confidence heading into next Sunday's tilt against the Bengals.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 18 97 2 11 1

Start Javonte Williams vs Bears The Bears rank #29 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. After scoring two TDs in a Week 1 loss to the Eagles, Williams churned out another big performance in his second game as a Cowboy, highlighted by a 30-yard run in the third quarter for his third score of the season. The veteran back did benefit from some missed tackles by Giants defenders, but he also showed impressive power, and he continues to solidify his hold on the top job in the Dallas backfield. In Week 3, Williams will take aim at a Bears defense that just got gashed for a combined 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns by the Lions duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 18 82 3 17 1

Rewards...

Saquon Barkley vs Rams
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Barkley handled his usual workload, and he has found the end zone in each of the first two games. He actually hasn't been overly efficient thus far, but Barkley will break his share of big runs at some point. It is business as usual for one of the league's best backs.

Zach Charbonnet vs Saints
-  The Saints rank #31 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Charbonnet was outplayed by Kenneth Walker, who turned 14 touches into 118 scrimmage yards and a touchdown. The 2022 and 2023 second-round draft picks have been deployed in a near-even split to begin the 2025 campaign. Seattle will likely continue to ride the hot hand in Week 3 against the Saints, though the workload could start to shift away from Charbonnet if Walker continues to outplay him.

Ashton Jeanty vs Commanders
-  The Commanders rank #28 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Jeanty was repeatedly flummoxed by a game Patriots front, although he was able to record his first regular-season touchdown on a tough three-yard run in the third quarter. He did receive ample opportunity on the ground and outpaced the only other Raiders running back to log a carry, Zamir White, by 16 rush attempts. Despite some summertime talk from head coach Pete Carroll that all of his backs would be involved to varying degrees, Jeanty unsurprisingly heads into a Week 2 Monday night home matchup against the Chargers on Sept. 15 as the clear leader of the ground attack.

Christian McCaffrey vs Cardinals
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. McCaffrey displayed his typical versatility, and the calf injury that popped up prior to the the opener doesn't appear to be slowing him down. McCaffrey was always going to be a big part of the San Francisco offense, but with several starters sidelined with injurues, he should remain particulalry busy in the coming weeks.

Bijan Robinson vs Panthers
-  The Panthers rank #32 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Robinson got off to a quick start to the game, with his first two carries combining to go for 42 yards. He chipped in additional long gains of 18 and 11 yards in the third quarter to ultimately average 6.5 yards per attempt. The only thing missing from Robinson's performance was a trip to the end zone, as Tyler Allgeier instead got that opportunity late in the third quarter. Robinson topped 100 yards from scrimmage for the second consecutive game and rebounded on the ground after gaining only 24 yards as a rusher in Week 1.

D'Andre Swift vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #30 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Swift was able to serve as a bright spot for the Bears' offense on a mostly forgettable afternoon, putting together an efficient performance on the ground that included a three-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. However, Swift also short-circuited what appeared to be a scoring drive when he lost a fumble at the Lions' 31-yard line late in the first quarter. Through two games, Swift remains the clear No. 1 back in Chicago's ground attack, and he'll have a favorable matchup at home against the Cowboys in a Week 3 showdown next Sunday.

Jonathan Taylor vs Titans
-  Taylor delivered a key run of 68 yards early in the fourth quarter to set up a field goal for the Colts while also accounting for the team's longest play from scrimmage. He was efficient on the ground beyond that single carry, logging a pair of both 10 and nine-yard gains. Taylor also got involved as a pass catcher, taking a swing pass for 43 yards late in the first quarter before catching a touchdown on a similar play from seven yards away one quarter later. It was an excellent performance all around and marked the sixth time in Taylor's career that he's topped 200 yards from scrimmage.

Sit Travis Hunter vs Texans Making his NFL debut, the second overall pick in the 2025 Draft led the Jaguars in receptions, although his longest gain went for only 10 yards, and two of his teammates topped him in yardage. Hunter saw most of his action on offense, but his usage at cornerback should increase as the season progresses once he's shown he has the playbook down on offense, something he took a big step toward demonstrating Sunday. Hunter will look to continue building chemistry with Trevor Lawrence on the road Week 2 against the Bengals.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 41 0

Sit Jerry Jeudy vs Packers Jeudy's receiving yardage total led the Browns on a day when Joe Flacco threw for just 199 yards, and when he and Dillon Gabriel spread the ball around to nine different pass catchers. There was talk of a second consecutive breakout campaign for Jeudy heading into 2025, and through two games, he has a 9-117-0 line on 16 targets as a Week 3 home date with the Packers approaches next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 44 0

Sit Quentin Johnston vs Broncos Johnson had multiple critical drops in the first quarter, but for a second consecutive week the 24-year-old once again connected with Justin Herbert on a beautiful frozen rope this time for a 60-yard touchdown that proved to be all the scoring necessary to beat the Raiders. The 2023 first-round pick did tie for the team high with seven targets, but unlike Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey, the majority of Johnston's targets appeared to be scripted and don't necessarily indicate a potential bump in volume on a week-to-week basis.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 2 44 0

Sit Michael Pittman Jr. vs Titans The Titans rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Pittman took on a lesser role among the Colts' pass catchers in Week 2, tying for third on the team in targets. He was also limited to receptions in short areas of the field, with his longest gain going for just 12 yards. Tyler Warren appears to have the most consistent pass-catching role in Indianapolis early this season, which could mean inconsistent production for Pittman moving forward given the significant roles of both Josh Downs and Alec Pierce in the offense.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 47 0

Sit CALVIN RIDLEY vs Colts Ridley tied for the team lead in targets with both Elic Ayomanor and Chig Okonkwo, though he beat out Ayomanor by one yard to lead Tennessee pass catchers. Ridley's longest catch of the day went for 26 yards, when Cam Ward rolled out to his right and hit him along the sideline. It was an improved performance for Ridley, though Ayomanor is emerging as a key part of the offense and looks likely to continue to cut into Ridley's opportunities.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 53 0

Risks...

DAVANTE ADAMS vs Eagles
-  The Eagles rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Adams led the Rams' pass catchers in targets and receiving yards, thanks in large part to long catches of 33 and 26 yards. He also recorded his first touchdown as a Ram on a 16-yard connection in the back corner of the end zone midway through the fourth quarter. Adams showed strong rapport with Matthew Stafford, which should bode well for his production moving forward, though he and the Rams will face a tough matchup against the Eagles in Week 3.

Kayshon Boutte vs Steelers
-  Boutte unsurprisingly saw a significant reduction in volume after setting a new career high with eight targets Week 1, but he made the most of his only Week 2 look, pulling in his fourth touchdown in 22 NFL games. The 23-year-old wide receiver is hanging onto a starting role on the outside, but New England likes to spread the ball around, as Drake Maye's 19 completions were split between nine different pass catchers. Up next for Boutte is a Week 3 home game against the Steelers.

STEFON DIGGS vs Steelers
-  Diggs tied Rhamondre Stevenson for the team lead in targets but finished third on the Patriots in receiving yards behind Stevenson (88) and Austin Hooper (38). Drake Maye spread the ball out to nine different receivers, and New England's pair of touchdowns through the air went to Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte. Diggs is the top option in New England's wide receiver room, but that role doesn't always command significant volume in a Patriots offense predicated on runs and quick passes. Diggs could see a lot of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey in Week 3 against the Steelers, which will make it difficult for the veteran wide receiver to pick up the pace.

Josh Downs vs Titans
-  The Titans rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Downs wasn't prioritized in the Colts' Week 1 offense, though he led the team in both targets and receptions in Week 2. He was busy early in the game, as he recorded two receptions for 29 yards on the team's first four offensive plays. Tyler Warren has quickly emerged as Daniel Jones' favorite target, leaving Downs as likely to rotate productive games with the likes of Michael Pittman and Alec Pierce.

Emeka Egbuka vs Jets
-  The Jets rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The rookie first-round pick had been ascendant since he first stepped on a Buccaneers practice field this offseason, and Egbuka delivered handsomely in his first career regular-season contest. The Ohio State product first struck from 30-yards out just past the midway point of the second quarter, and he subsequently added what would turn out to be a game-winning 25-yard scoring grab with just under a minute remaining. The poise and polish that Egbuka has repeatedly been commended for was on display on his way to a team-leading yardage total, and he'll be in line to play another significant role during a Week 2 marquee interconference road matchup against the Texans on Monday night, Sept. 15.

Matthew Golden vs Browns
-  Golden had a quiet NFL debut as Jordan Love threw for only 188 yards. That total included a pair of touchdown passes, which went to Tucker Kraft and Jayden Reed. With Kraft, Reed and Romeo Doubs -- who led the Packers with 68 receiving yards Sunday -- all featured prominently in the passing game for a run-first Green Bay offense, Golden will have to battle for touches, especially early in the 2025 first-round pick's rookie season. Golden will look to pick up the pace Thursday against the Commanders.

Marvin Harrison Jr. vs 49ers
-  The 49ers rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Harrison's production crashed in Week 2 following last week's team-high receiving line of 5-71-1 against the Saints. The 23-year-old took a back seat to TE Trey McBride (6-78-0) while fellow wideout Michael Wilson caught QB Kyler Murray's lone touchdown pass Sunday. Harrison experienced his fair share of ups-and-downs over his rookie campaign in 2024, and we may not see much consistency from him as a sophomore based on this two-game sample size. Fantasy managers will be hoping for one of Harrison's "up" games in road tilt against San Francisco next Sunday.

Jakobi Meyers vs Commanders
-  The Commanders rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Meyers paced Las Vegas in targets, receptions and receiving yards despite finishing with a poor catch rate (50 percent). The 28-year-old has garnered double-digit targets in both appearances with new QB Geno Smith this season, cementing the wideout's spot atop the Raiders' depth chart. Meyers' predictable volume makes him a reliable starting option heading into Sunday's tilt against the Commanders, offering a notable boost in value for those in PPR formats.

Chris Olave vs Seahawks
-  The fourth-year wideout led the Saints in volume once again while seeing double-digit targets from Spencer Rattler for the second straight game. Olave is still looking for his first TD, and his first breakout performance, of 2025, but his usage in new head coach Kellen Moore's scheme suggests both will come in due time. Olave will take on a Seahawks secondary in Week 3 that has been stingy so far against WRs, but which did give up a TD to DK Metcalf in Week 2.

DeVonta Smith vs Rams
-  Smith finished as the Eagles' leading receiver in a game during which his team threw for just 101 yards. It was a marked improvement from the veteran starter following last Thursday's three-catch, 16-yard stinker in a win over the Cowboys. Expect Smith and the entire Philadelphia passing attack to be more involved next Sunday lining up opposite the Rams' high-powered passing attack.

Brian Thomas Jr. vs Texans
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Thomas wasn't listed on Jacksonville's injury report leading up to Sunday's loss, so his wrist injury could have been sustained over the weekend. An injury would somewhat explain Thomas' inefficiency versus Cincinnati, as he secured just four of 12 targets for 49 yards during the narrow loss and at times seemed to visibly shy away from contact. Coen said Thomas "knows he needs to have a great week of practice," per Mia O'Brien of 1010 XL 92.5 FM Jacksonville radio, so fantasy managers will need to monitor whether the Year 2 wideout is listed on Wednesday's first injury report of Week 3 ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Texans.

Cedric Tillman vs Packers
-  Tillman snagged a five-yard pass on a crossing route in the back of the end zone for Cleveland's lone touchdown. He also had one of three fourth-quarter drops by Browns receivers. His drop with 1:24 remaining was the dagger, as it bounded off his hands and into the arms of the Bengals' DJ Turner. Despite the drop, a lot went right in Week 1 for Tillman, who saw good target volume and had a 25-yard reception. After flashing in the middle of the 2024 season, a concussion ended the year after Week 12 and left his status for 2025 up in the air. Tillman enters the season as the No. 2 wideout opposite Jerry Jeudy, and nothing that transpired Sunday will change that.

Xavier Worthy vs Giants
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Despite suffering a full tear of his right labrum during a collision with teammate Travis Kelce on the first drive of the Chiefs' 27-21 season-opening loss to the Chargers on Sept. 5, Worthy was able to practice in a limited fashion Thursday and Friday and took a doubtful tag into the weekend before the Chiefs downgraded him to out for the Week 2 matchup. Worthy could still require surgery for the injury down the road, but for the time being, he plans to play through the issue while wearing a harness to protect the torn labrum. The Chiefs will wait and see how Worthy fares during their upcoming practices in Week 3 before deciding on his availability for the showdown with the Giants, but the early expectation is that he'll be ready to play following a one-game absence.

Start Nico Collins vs Jaguars The Jaguars rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Quarterback C.J. Stroud wasted no time finding his favorite target in the end zone Monday when he floated a rainbow in to Collins on the Texans' first possession of the game. The athletic receiver made a near-impossible grab where he managed to keep both of his feet in bounds for a millisecond before the momentum of the pass carried him out of the end zone. It wasn't all roses for Collins, as he finished the contest with an abysmal 33 percent catch rate on a team-high nine targets. The end result was still a significant improvement over the star wideout's Week 1 stinker. Collins' next opportunity to put up the consistent WR1 numbers managers have become accustomed to from him will be in a road matchup against the Jaguars on Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 92 1

Start Zay Flowers vs Lions The Lions rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Flowers once again filled the role of a true No. 1 receiver, leading the way in receptions, receiving yards and targets for the Ravens. While he matched his Week 1 catch total, Flowers didn't come close to approximating his 143-yard tally and didn't get into the end zone. However, Baltimore naturally wasn't pressed to be anywhere near as aggressive through the air as in that season-opening game, and the Flowers-Lamar Jackson connection appears to be in prime form going into a Week 3 home showdown against the Lions on Monday night, Sept. 22.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 8 93 1

Start COOPER KUPP vs Saints Kupp bounced back from a two-catch Seahawks debut but once again finished second on the team in receiving yards behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Kupp and JSN combined for 19 targets while no other teammate had more than four, but Sam Darnold's first two touchdown passes of the season went to Tory Horton and AJ Barner. Up next for Seattle's new-look passing game is a Week 3 home game against the Saints.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 72 1

Start Rome Odunze vs Cowboys Odunze, in conjunction with Caleb Williams, single-handedly kept the Bears competitive in the first quarter, recording 28- and six-yard touchdown grabs in the first and second quarter, respectively. Odunze easily led the Bears in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon, and although his career-best day was sullied by the sizable loss, it was certainly encouraging to see the emphasis on getting the second-year wideout involved in Ben Johnson's offense. Odunze next takes aim at a Cowboys secondary that allowed 450 passing yards and three touchdowns to the Giants' Russell Wilson, as Dallas comes into the Windy City for a Week 3 showdown next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 7 95 1

Start George Pickens vs Bears While he took a back seat to CeeDee Lamb (9-112-0 on 11 targets) and tight end Jake Ferguson (9-78-0 on 12 targets) in terms of volume, Pickens came up big for the Cowboys with a six-yard TD grab from Dak Prescott with less than a minute left in the fourth quarter that gave the team a 34-30 lead -- and which proved to be only the fourth-last score of the afternoon in a wild back-and-forth affair. It was Pickens' first trip to the end zone for Dallas after a fairly quiet debut, but he could be headed for even bigger numbers in Week 3 against a Bears secondary that just got lit up for four receiving touchdowns by the Lions' top WR duo of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 88 1

Rewards...

Hollywood Brown vs Giants
-  Brown saw his target volume fall back down to earth following last week's 16-target, 10-catch outburst. The veteran wideout still led the Chiefs in receptions, with his five targets being usurped by only Travis Kelce's six in an overall lackluster passing performance Sunday. Brown could see his target share cut into if Xavier Worthy (shoulder) continues trending towards playing in Week 3. That said, Hollywood should stick in the starting lineup at least until Rashee Rice (suspension) returns in Week 7. Brown remains a plus PPR play when the Chiefs visit the Giants next Sunday.

Ja'Marr Chase vs Vikings
-  The Vikings rank #29 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. Chase struggled in Week 1 against the Browns along with the rest of the Bengals' offense. However, he bounced back in a big way in Week 2, doubling up Tee Higgins in targets while accounting for over half of the team's yards through the air. His touchdown came from four yards away early in the first quarter, and he then tacked on receptions of 25, 16, 14 and 13 yards. Even more impressive was that the majority of Chase's production came with Jake Browning under center after Joe Burrow departed in the second quarter with an apparent toe injury. If Burrow is sidelined for an extended period, Chase's production would likely dip, but his talent and role will keep him locked in as a top option at wide receiver.

Keon Coleman vs Dolphins
-  Coleman came back down to earth after recording 112 receiving yards and a touchdown in the season opener, as all three of Buffalo's Week 2 touchdowns came on the ground. The Bills will likely continue to spread the ball around, but the 2024 second-round pick leads the team with 14 targets and 138 receiving yards heading into Thursday's home game against a Dolphins defense that has allowed 33 points to each of its first two opponents.

Troy Franklin vs Chargers
-  Franklin looks to be breaking out in his second season as a pro, as he set career-best marks in targets, receptions and yards in Sunday's loss. He flipped the field early in the second quarter with a 42-yard gain on a catch deep down the right sideline and capped the same drive with a three-yard touchdown reception. Franklin outperformed Courtland Sutton in the contest, and while that may not continue, he appears to be Bo Nix's second-favorite target ahead of Marvin Mims and Evan Engram.

TYREEK HILL vs Bills
- Hill set the pace for the Dolphins in receiving yards while checking in second in receptions and targets. Hill's day could have been even bigger had Tua Tagovailoa not missed him when he was wide open on a second-half pass, but the fact the talented wideout put together his first 100-yard effort of the campaign was certainly a bright spot during a loss that dropped the Dolphins to 0-2. With Miami desperate for a win, Hill figures to be prominently featured again in a Thursday night Week 3 road matchup against the Bills that is arguably already a critical game for the Dolphins.

Justin Jefferson vs Bengals
-  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. Jefferson was able to rip off a huge 50-yard gain on Atlanta's defense, but he was otherwise held in check Sunday. QB J.J. McCarthy completed just 11 passes for 158 yards in the ugly loss, with his top wideout accounting for nearly half of his total production. Jefferson has gotten off to a slower start in 2025 with McCarthy (7-125-1) under center compared to the two-week sample we saw with 2024 starter Sam Darnold (8-192-2). Even with the slight drop-off in production, Jefferson remains an unquestioned fantasy WR1 heading into a Week 3 matchup against Ja'Marr Chase and the Bengals next Sunday.

CeeDee Lamb vs Bears
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. While his final numbers were overshadowed by Malik Nabers' 9-167-2 line, Lamb came up big for the Cowboys when he needed to and led his team in receiving yards while tying Jake Ferguson for the team lead in catches. Lamb has begun the season with back-to-back 100-yard performances, but he's still looking for his first TD heading into a Week 3 clash with a Bears defense that just got torched by Amon-Ra St. Brown and the Lions.

TERRY MCLAURIN vs Raiders
-  McLaurin finished third in receptions and second in receiving yards on the Commanders for the night, while also setting the pace in targets. As a whole, his collection of numbers certainly represented a nice boost from his 2-27-0 line on four targets Week 1 against the Giants, but through two games, the Commanders' passing game has been relatively conservative. McLaurin and Jayden Daniels will have some extra time to reestablish chemistry ahead of a Week 3 home matchup against the Raiders on Sunday, Sept. 21.

Tetairoa McMillan vs Falcons
-  The eighth overall pick in the 2025 Draft was the unquestioned top wideout for the Panthers right out of the gate, as he led the team in targets, catches and receiving yards in a mostly disappointing day for Bryce Young and the passing game. McMillan will need better performances from his quarterback to turn that kind of volume into consistent production, but it was still an encouraging start to his pro career. He'll look to make a bigger impact on the road Week 2 against the Cardinals.

DK Metcalf vs Patriots
-  The Steelers' passing attack took a significant step backward relative to Week 1, and Metcalf's output fell accordingly. He still led the team with six targets, though his longest gain went for only nine yards. Metcalf managed to salvage his day with a leaping two-yard touchdown shortly before halftime for his first score as a Steeler, though it was otherwise a forgettable performance.

Malik Nabers vs Chiefs
-  Russell Wilson turned back the clock with a performance reminiscent of his best days in Seattle, and Nabers was his main target, catching a 29-yard TD in the second quarter and a 48-yard score with just 25 seconds left in the fourth that appeared to have won the game for the Giants before Brandon Aubrey booted a ridiculous 64-yard field goal as time expired to send it to OT. Nabers has seen 25 targets through two games from Wilson, turning that volume into a 14-238-2 line, but he may not face a secondary as weak as Dallas' current unit for the rest of the season. The sixth overall pick in the 2024 Draft will look to prove he's matchup-proof in Week 3 against Kansas City.

Puka Nacua vs Eagles
-  The Eagles rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Nacua made an impact in both conventional and unconventional fashion in Sunday's win. He kicked things off with a 45-yard rushing score early in the first quarter on an end around. Nacua then went on to add long receptions of 24 and 22 yards to cap off an excellent all-around fantasy performance. Through two games, he has 266 yards from scrimmage and 18 receptions.

Ricky Pearsall vs Cardinals
-  The second-year wideout couldn't repeat his big Week 1 performance with Mac Jones under center instead of Brock Purdy (toe/shoulder), but Pearsall still delivered solid production while finishing third on the 49ers in volume behind Jauan Jennings (10 targets) and Christian McCaffrey (seven). Purdy is expected to miss multiple weeks, but Pearsall's involvement in the passing game Sunday suggests there's little reason to downgrade his outlook while catching passes from Jones. Pearsall could be busy again in Week 3 against the Cardinals.

Wan'Dale Robinson vs Chiefs
-  During a wild seesaw affair in which Russell Wilson threw for 450 yards, Robinson set a new career high that shattered his previous best of 100 yards, which he recorded in Week 11 of his rookie season in 2022. The possession receiver has had a strong start to the current campaign, posting a 14-197-1 line on 18 targets, and if the Giants fall behind early he could be busy again in Week 3 against Kansas City.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba vs Saints
-  Smith-Njigba exceeded 100 receiving yards while pacing the Seahawks in targets, catches and receiving yards for the second time in as many games, quickly establishing himself as the top target for new Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold. JSN's still searching for his first TD of 2025 after scoring six times in his breakout sophomore season last year, but his robust volume gives Smith-Njigba one of the highest fantasy floors among wide receivers heading into a Week 3 home game against the Saints.

Amon-Ra St. Brown vs Ravens
-  The Ravens 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. St. Brown comfortably led the Lions in receptions and targets while edging Jameson Williams for the top spot in receiving yards as well. While his speedy teammate got that runner-up spot largely via a 64-yard chunk play, St. Brown chipped away at the Bears secondary throughout the afternoon with short and medium gains, including touchdown grabs of four, eight and four yards. The two-time All-Pro's breakout performance was a welcome departure from his modest 4-45-0 receiving line Week 1 against Green Bay, and St. Brown's contributions figure to be critical again when the Lions tackle the unenviable task of a road trip to Baltimore for a Week 3 Monday night showdown with the Ravens on Sept. 22.

Sit MARK ANDREWS vs Lions The Lions rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Andrews got off to a slow start last season, and he isn't crushing it early on in 2025, either. The Ravens have a slew of productive wideouts, including Zay Flowers and DeAndre Hopkins, so Andrews appears to be well down the pecking order for targets right now. He should cautiously be treated as a low-end TE1 in fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams, but his arrow is certainly pointing down right now.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 32 0

Sit EVAN ENGRAM vs Chargers Engram returned from the calf injury he sustained in Week 1, but he played only 43 percent of offensive snaps and worked behind Adam Trautman (62 percent), who brought in all three of his targets for 10 yards and a score. It's possible Engram gets more involved in Week 3 against the Chargers as he improves his game fitness, but even before being injured in the opener he played just one snap, and the veteran chain-mover may not be as entrenched as the team's No. 1 tight end as expected, with Trautman offering superior blocking ability. Fantasy managers may want to wait until Engram proves he's earned a larger snap share before relying on him. Engram's paltry 3.7 fantasy ppg isn't worth playing.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 31 0

Risks...

Brock Bowers vs Commanders
-  The Commanders rank #4 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. Bowers was able to suit up after injuring his knee Week 1 and being limited to just one practice Saturday. The budding superstar wore a bulky brace on his left knee but otherwise was unaffected by the injury that threatened his status for Monday's primetime matchup. Bowers' pedestrian stat line was the result of a horrid passing night from QB Geno Smith, who completed just 55 percent of his pass attempts while throwing three interceptions. With the injury scare behind him, Bowers and the entire Las Vegas offense will look to right the ship in a road tilt against the Commanders on Sunday.

DALLAS GOEDERT vs Rams
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Goedert did not participate in any of the Eagles' three practice sessions during the week, after catching seven passes for 44 yards in the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. TE Craig Calcaterra should receive the bulk of the snaps at the position in Week 2 but he should not be viewed as a great fantasy option. Goedert's absence could shift RB Saquon Barkley into more of a receiving role this weekend, with RB Tank Bigsby becoming worthy of consideration as a flex option in deeper fantasy leagues since he could see plenty of action on early downs.

T.J. Hockenson vs Bengals
-  Hockenson caught just 33 percent of his targets in a low-volume night of offense from Minnesota, resulting in a mediocre stat line for fantasy managers. The receiving tight end is averaging just two receptions and 13.5 yards in two games with 2025 starting QB J.J. McCarthy. That is a concerning trend for a player hoping to bounce back from a lackluster 2024 campaign. Hockenson's next opportunity to right the ship will come in a home game against Cincinnati next Sunday. Hockenson is averaging a pathetic 3.4 fantasy ppg as the passing attack hasn't taken off with JJ. Maybe things will look better with Wentz under center.

Colston Loveland vs Cowboys
- Most people expected Penn State's Tyler Warren to be the first tight end selected in this year's draft, but the Bears took Loveland 10th overall, while Warren went 14th to the Colts The 21-year-old Loveland is a talented young prospect who joins a Chicago offense that appears to be on the rise. Loveland will be playing for new Bears head coach Ben Johnson, who helped coax a TE1 overall finish out of rookie TE Sam LaPorta in Detroit in 2023. But Loveland faces stiff target competition in his rookie year, since the Bears have D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze and Luther Burden at wide receiver, plus veteran TE Cole Kmet. For now, Loveland is a more appealing asset in dynasty leagues than in redraft leagues, since it seems unlikely he'll make a major impact in his first NFL season.

Chig Okonkwo vs Colts
-  Okonkwo tied for the team lead with six targets, though he couldn't match Elic Ayomanor or Calvin Ridley in their ability to generate yards. Okonkwo was targeted in short areas of the field, though he did manage a long gain of 14 yards. He may start to lose playing time to Gunnar Helm as the season progresses, but Okonkwo has commanded a solid 10 targets across the first two games of the campaign.

Ja'Tavion Sanders vs Falcons
-  Sanders finished as the second-leading receiver for Carolina behind impressive rookie wideout Tetairoa McMillan's 100-yard game. The 22-year-old Sanders has taken a firm grasp of the No. 1 tight end role over Tommy Tremble (3-20-0) after producing seven receptions for 81 yards through two appearances. Sanders is shaping up to be a solid PPR option in Week 3 when the Panthers host the Falcons next Sunday.

Dalton Schultz vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Schultz turned in another mild fantasy score despite finishing second in targets for the Texans. The veteran starter provides predictability for those in deeper formats, but his lack of upside and scoring potential (two touchdowns over 17 starts in 2024) keep him from flourishing in fantasy circles. Schultz remains a low-end option heading into a Week 3 matchup against the Jaguars on Sunday.

Start ZACH ERTZ vs Raiders Ertz set the pace in receiving yards for the Commanders while finishing as the runner-up in receptions and also tying for second in targets. The veteran tight end also recorded his second TD of the season on an impressive 20-yard catch-and-run early in the fourth quarter, making it an all-around rewarding fantasy performance despite the disappointing team outcome. With 13 target through two games, Ertz looks to be just as in sync with Jayden Daniels as he was in the latter's rookie 2024 campaign, and the duo next will turn their sights to the Raiders defense in a Week 3 home matchup on Sunday, Sept. 21. Ertz is the #3 fantasy TE with 15 ppg right now.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 64 1

Start TRAVIS KELCE vs Giants Kelce led all Kansas City receivers in targets (six) and receiving yards (61), but he was unable to replicate the trip to the end zone that he secured for fantasy managers last week. The 35-year-old did fare better against the Eagles this time around after being held to 39 yards with no touchdowns when these two teams met in Super Bowl LIX this past February. With a thin receiver room due to absences from Rashee Rice (suspension) and Xavier Worthy (shoulder), Kelce remains a focal point on offense for a team struggling out of the gates. The Chiefs will attempt to secure their first win of the season in a road matchup against the Giants next Sunday. Kelce is averaging 11.4 fantasy ppg and should see a good target share making him a nice play even after last week's near goalline drop.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 7 74 1

Rewards...

Harold Fannin Jr. vs Packers
- The rookie, Fannin, has been a nice suprise for the Browns and is their top fantasy TE at 11.7 ppg over Njoku's 7.4 fantasy ppg.

Jake Ferguson vs Bears
-  The tight end led the Cowboys in target volume during a wild seesaw affair and tied CeeDee Lamb for the team lead in receptions, although Lamb out-paced him in yards with 112. Ferguson has re-established himself as the main security blanket for Dak Prescott, and while he's still looking for his first touchdown since he caught three against Green Bay in the wild-card round of the 2023 season, he's delivered a 14-101-0 line on 18 targets through the first two games of the current campaign. Ferguson could hit paydirt in Week 3 against a Bears defense that just gave up a TD to the Lions' Brock Wright, one of five touchdowns thrown by Jared Goff in a 52-21 rout. Ferguson is averaging 12.1 fantasy PPG.

Juwan Johnson vs Seahawks
-  For the second straight game Johnson saw impressive volume, finishing second on the Saints in targets behind Chris Olave's 10, and this time the tight end was able to turn one of them into a score as he caught an 18-yard strike from Spencer Rattler inside the final two minutes of the first half. Johnson saw only 66 targets in 17 regular-season games in 2024, but he's already gotten 21 in the first two games of the current campaign, leading to a 13-125-1 line. He could be headed for another big effort in Week 3 against a Seahawks defense that gave up two TDs to San Francisco TEs -- George Kittle (hamstring) and Jake Tonges -- in its opener before allowing a combined 7-58-0 line on eight targets to Steelers tight ends Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth in Week 2. Juwan is the #2 fantasy TE behind Kraft.

Dalton Kincaid vs Dolphins
-  Kincaid led the Bills in targets and receiving yards as the passing attack took a back seat to the running game, which produced 224 yards and three touchdowns. The 2023 first-round pick has opened his third NFL campaign with a pair of four-catch performances and should remain involved in Thursday's Week 3 home game against the Dolphins.

Tucker Kraft vs Browns
-  Kraft led Packers pass catchers across the board in receptions, receiving yards and targets while authoring his first career 100-yard game, and Jayden Reed's first-quarter exit with a shoulder injury undoubtedly created some extra opportunity. The third-year tight end also had a game-high 57-yard reception on the third play of Green Bay's second drive of the night, and he struck for his second touchdown in as many games via an eight-yard scoring grab with just under nine minutes remaining in the contest. Kraft displayed plenty of field-stretching ability during a breakout 2024 season as well, so he'll remain a highly appealing play in all formats in a Week 3 road matchup against the Browns on Sunday, Sept. 21.

Trey McBride vs 49ers
-  The 49ers rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. McBride finished as the Cardinals' leading receiver after ceding that honor to WR Marvin Harrison in Week 1. The 25-year-old McBride has racked up six receptions in each of his two starts so far, putting him on pace for another 100-plus reception season following last year's breakout 111-catch campaign. McBride's allergy to the end zone (career high of three TDs in 2023) is what holds him back from breaking the fantasy stratosphere. The Colorado State product is still a PPR monster and a TE1 play against the 49ers next Sunday.

Kyle Pitts Sr. vs Panthers
-  Despite turning in a modest line, this was a relatively encouraging performance for Pitts. He tied for the team lead in targets and paced all pass catchers in receptions, with his lack of production explained primarily by the Falcons attempting only 21 passes. Pitts now has 11 catches for 96 yards across the first two games of the season and looks to be a favorite target of Michael Penix.

Tyler Warren vs Titans
-  The Titans rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The Colts, notorious for their scant tight-end usage over the last several seasons, wasted no time getting Warren involved in his first taste of NFL regular-season action. The rookie first-round pick was targeted on three of the first five plays from scrimmage, converting those opportunities into gains of 14, eight and 21 yards. While Warren's pace would naturally slow over the rest of the game, he still finished with team-high reception and target totals while also recording the second-most receiving yards on the afternoon for Indianapolis. It's clear involving Warren will be a priority, affording the Penn State product an abundance of momentum heading into a Week 2 home matchup against the Broncos next Sunday.

Sit MATT GAY vs Raiders Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Gay made a 51-yard field-goal attempt but then missed from 58 and 52, continuing his struggles from 50-plus yards out after making only three of nine such kicks in 2024 with the Colts. Washington had a surprisingly tough time moving the ball Thursday, netting only 230 yards of total offense. Gay's lack of accuracy from distance coupled with modest offensive output from the Commanders isn't a formula for fantasy success. He's currently only averaging 3.5 fantasy PPG.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 1 2 3

Sit Blake Grupe vs Seahawks Grupe missed a 40-yard field-goal attempt to end the first drive of the game. The 5-foot-7 kicker is now 2-of-4 on field-goal tries this season. He'll look to bounce back when the Saints next play at Seattle on Sunday, Sept. 21. He's currently only averaging 4 fantasy ppg.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 1 2 1

Risks...

NICK FOLK vs Buccaneers
-  Folk made a 51-yard field-goal attempt in the second quarter, showing that the 40-year-old kicker still has some power left in his leg. The made PAT came on the heels of a fourth-quarter touchdown pass by Tyrod Taylor, who could start at quarterback in Week 3 against the Buccaneers after Justin Fields suffered a concussion in the loss to Buffalo. He is currently averaging only 8 fantasy PPG and the Jets offense struggled last week.

Evan McPherson vs Vikings
-  All of McPherson's kicks came from within 35 yards, with his lone field goal coming from 31 yards out in the second quarter to cut the Bengals' deficit to four points. McPherson went just 16-for-22 on his field-goal attempts during the 2024 regular season, but he has converted on all eight of his kick attempts through the first two games of the 2025 campaign. However, his fantasy floor could be impacted, as Jake Browning is set to take over as the Bengals' starting quarterback as Joe Burrow is expected to miss a minimum of three months while recovering from surgery on his toe turf injury, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. He's currently averaging only 6 fantasy ppg and we expect the offense to take a step back without Burrow.

Will Reichard vs Bengals
-  Minnesota didn't have much to celebrate on a day when its offense struggled mightily, but Reichard at least kept the team from getting shut out by nailing both of his field-goal tries. The first was a chip-shot 33-yarder in the second quarter, while the second was a more challenging 51-yarder with time expiring just before halftime. Reichard has begun the season a perfect 4-for-4 on field-goal tries through two games, with two of his makes coming from over 50 yards. The offense may struggle a bit with Wentz, who is pretty new to the team under center.

Joey Slye vs Colts
-  Slye was once again rather busy in Week 2, connecting on a 55-yard field goal and 37-yarder in the second quarter. He later added makes from 57 yards and 35 yards in the second half. Through two games in 2025, Slye has made all eight of his field-goal tries, including five makes from 50-plus yards. Slye ranks 4th in fantasy ppg, but we expect him to step back against a tough Colts D.

Start CHRIS BOSWELL vs Patriots Boswell was last year's #1 fantasy kicker based on PPG. He is currently 5th in fantasy scoring with 13.5 PPG and should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Boswell made a pair of 48-yard field goals in the first half before converting a 45-yard attempt in the fourth quarter. The Steelers scored just one touchdown on the day and successfully went for the two afterward. On the season, Boswell has made all five of his field-goal tries and all four of his extra points.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Start Spencer Shrader vs Titans Shrader accounted for 17 of the Colts' 29 points in this one, making a 29-yard field goal to start off the scoring in the first quarter, followed by makes from 33, 36, 28 and 45. His 45-yard make won the game as time expired in the fourth quarter. On the season, Shrader has made all nine of his field goals and all five of his extra points. Shrader is tied with Aubrey for the overall fantasy kicker scoring lead on the season.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 3

Rewards...

BRANDON AUBREY vs Bears
- Aubrey can hit from way downtown and is the top overall scoring fantasy kicker this season. Aubrey made a 51-yard field goal in the second quarter before adding a 44-yard make to open the fourth quarter, a 64-yard game-tying kick at the end of regulation and a game-winning 46-yarder as time expired in overtime. The kicker has been historically good since joining the Cowboys ahead of the 2023 campaign, and he's now off to an impressive start to the 2025 season. Through two games, Aubrey has made all seven of his field-goal tries, including five makes from 50-plus yards.

HARRISON BUTKER vs Giants
-  Butker missed a 58-yard field goal wide right in the first quarter before later connecting on a 56-yarder to finish off the team's first possession of the second quarter. The kicker's miss proved to be the difference in the contest, though it's hard to pin the blame on him considering the distance. Butker has now converted four of five field goals, two of which were from 50-plus yards, and made two out of three PATs over the first two games in 2025. We expect him to improve upon is 8.5 fantasy PPG.

Cameron Dicker vs Broncos
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Dicker had no problem connecting on his field-goal attempts from 39 and 36 yards in the second quarter, and all five of his kicks came from within 40 yards. He's coming off a strong 2024 regular season in which he made 30 of 31 field-goal attempts within 50 yards and went 9-for-11 on tries from 50-plus yards. Dicker has missed just five field-goal attempts since the start of the 2023 season and will have his opportunities to show off his kicking power when the Chargers' offense stalls outside the red zone. We expect him to improve upon is 8.5 fantasy PPG.

JAKE ELLIOTT vs Rams
-  Elliott has made a 58-yard field goal in back-to-back weeks to open the season after kicks of 50-plus yards were his bugaboo during the 2024 campaign. In addition to the 58-yarder, Elliott also made a 51-yard field goal against Kansas City on Sunday. On the season, Elliott has made all three of his field goals -- all 50-plus yards -- and all five of his extra points. He's currently averaging 10 fantasy PPG.

KA'IMI FAIRBAIRN vs Jaguars
-  Fairbairn made a 35-yard field goal in the first quarter before later adding a 53-yard make in the fourth. The kicker has now opened the season having gone 5-for-5 on field-goal attempts, including three makes from 50-plus yards, over two games. He's currently averaging 11.5 fantasy PPG.

Tyler Loop vs Lions
- The Ravens' rookie kicker should be among the top 12 fantasy kickers this season. Last year, Justin Tucker dipped to K16 in this offense, but his percentage of field goals made dipped to a ghastly 73.3%. Tucker still ranked third in extra point attempts. Baltimore led the NFL last year in red zone touchdown scoring rate with an insane 73.9%. That number will regress some offering Tyler Loop some more field goal opportunities in 2025. He's currently averaging a nice 12.5 fantasy PPG.

Sit Chicago Bears vs Cowboys The Cowboys have the 7th fewest fantasy points against scored this season and the Bears defense lost their Pro Bowl corner and were a hot mess against the Lions last week. Stay away from them this week.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Sit Miami Dolphins vs Bills The Bills have allowed the fewest fantasy points to D/STs this year as their offense has been clicking!

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Sit Detroit Lions vs Ravens The Lions pass rush was not found for 1.5 games this season and then came alove. They won't look like they did against Da Bears offense last week when they play Lamar and Derrick Henry. Keep in mind the Ravens have allowed the 3rd fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Risks...

Dallas Cowboys vs Bears
- The Cowboys fantasy defense ranks dead last in scoring this year and shouldn't be a good play as they are seriously missing Micah Parsons.

New York Jets vs Buccaneers
- The Jets vaunted defense ranks 31st in fantasy D/ST scoring while the Bucs have allowed the 11th fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Los Angeles Rams vs Eagles
- Look for the Rams D to struggle against an Eagles offense that has allowed the 5th fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Baltimore Ravens vs Lions
- The Ravens D shouldn't be a great bet against a Lionss offense that has allowed the 6th fewest fantasy points to D/STs.

Start Indianapolis Colts vs Titans The Titans have given up the most sacks so far this season and their offense has struggled even with Cam Ward, the Heisman Trophy winner under center. Look for the Colts to be a good play as their 11th ranked fantasy defense is a good bet against a team that has given up the 5th most points to D/STs.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 1

Start Atlanta Falcons vs Panthers The Panthers have allowed the third most fantasy points to D/STs while the Falcons rank third in fantasy D/ST scoring.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 1

Start Green Bay Packers vs Browns The Packers real defense has been elite while their fantasy defense has been solid, ranking 10th in scoring. Look for them to enjoy success against a Browns offense that has allowed the 4th most fantasy points to D/STs.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 1

Rewards...

Buffalo Bills vs Dolphins
- Tua has struggled so far this year making the Bills defense a solid play in week 3 as Miami has given up the 2nd most fantasy points to D/STs.

New England Patriots vs Steelers
- Look for the Patriots defense which ranks 2nd in scoring to have sneaky success against a Steelers offense that has allowed the 8th most fantasy points to D/STs.

Minnesota Vikings vs Bengals
- The Vikings dynamic defense should fare well against Jake Browning who turns the ball over a good bit and against an OL that has struggled this year.

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