Sit or Start for Week 7

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Sit Sam Darnold vs Texans Darnold looked as impressive as usual outside the friendly confines of Lumen Field, averaging 10.9 yards per attempt as he remained aggressive downfield. The veteran signal-caller once again focused the majority of his attention on Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who ended up on the receiving end of half of Darnold's completions and 162 of his yards, not to mention one of his two touchdowns, a perfectly thrown 61-yard strike in the second quarter. Darnold added a nifty 11-yard scoring toss to Cooper Kupp in the fourth quarter, and he'll head into a Week 7 home clash with the Texans on Monday night, Oct. 20 having thrown for multiple touchdowns in four of the last five games.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 21 34 61.76 227 3 1 1

Sit Jaxson Dart vs Broncos The Broncos rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week.We saw vintage Russell Wilson in a banger of a Week 2 matchup against the Cowboys. Through two weeks, we have seen Wilson look like he is over the hill, and we have also seen him find the Fountain of Youth. It's hard to imagine Wilson continuing the big-play success we saw in Week 2. Unless he does, Dart is inevitable. Rookies always carry high upside, and what we saw from Dart in the preseason should have fantasy managers optimistic. If you have the bench space, Dart is a good stash.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 16 26 61.53 161 19 0 1

Sit Tua Tagovailoa vs Browns Tagovailoa's turnover issues persisted in the narrow loss, although the last of his three interceptions came on a last-gasp play to close out the contest. The 2020 first-round pick's first two INTs were much more ill-timed, as Tagovailoa short-circuited drives at the Chargers' 39-yard line and his own 37, which led to 10 points for Los Angeles. Tagovailoa did lead Miami to two fourth-quarter touchdown drives and capped the second one off with a seven-yard scoring toss to Darren Waller with 46 seconds remaining, but he also undeniably played a direct part in the Dolphins falling to 1-5. Tagovailoa's Week 7 matchup is far from ideal in terms of his quest to atone for the turnover-filled performance, as a road trip to Cleveland to face the Browns' aggressive defense awaits.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 21 32 65.62 236 3 1 1

Risks...

Dillon Gabriel vs Dolphins
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week.This was the expectation after Cleveland traded Kenny Pickett to the Raiders. It will be Joe Flacco opening the season as the starter with Shedeur Sanders serving as the emergency third quarterback for Cleveland.

Jalen Hurts vs Vikings
-  The Vikings rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Hurts and the Eagles offense had a productive first quarter when they netted 10 points as a unit, and the reigning Super Bowl MVP connected with Dallas Goedert from three yards out late in the period for six of those. Hurts would add a one-yard touchdown run at just under the seven-minute mark of the second quarter, and that would surprisingly be the end of the scoring on the night for Philadelphia. Hurts exceeded 30 pass attempts for a second consecutive contest for the first time this season, and he averaged a season-best 8.6 yards per attempt Thursday while connecting with six different targets. The sixth-year pro's one interception also was very costly, however, as it came at the Giants' nine-yard line early in the fourth quarter with the Eagles down 10 and was returned all the way to Philadelphia's 23-yard line to set up the New York's game-clinching touchdown. Hurts has hit or exceeded 280 passing yards in each of the last two games heading into a Week 7 road showdown against the Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Daniel Jones vs Chargers
- Jones put together another efficient performance that's become par for the course for him in the Colts' scheme. Jones eclipsed the 70.0 percent completion threshold for the fourth time overall in the first six games, and the veteran signal-caller also tossed a pair of touchdown for the second consecutive contest by connecting with Tyler Warren and Josh Downs from eight and five yards out, respectively. Jones added a three-yard scoring rush just before the halfway point of the second quarter, his fourth touchdown on the ground already. Jones will remain a highly coveted option in all formats for a Week 7 road showdown against the Chargers that could develop into a high-scoring affair. The Chargers rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings.

J.J. McCarthy vs Eagles
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). While head coach Kevin O'Connell has not named a starting quarterback for this week's game against the Eagles, he also previously said McCarthy would need a full week of practice before he'd consider putting him back in a game. Meanwhile Carson Wentz was able to practice Monday despite a sore non-throwing shoulder. If McCarthy is able to practice without major limitations all week, he could return to the starting job. However, Minnesota's plans are not clear with Wentz playing well in O'Connell's three-game absence.

Brock Purdy vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Since aggravating a turf toe injury Week 4, Purdy hasn't mixed into any drills, but he resumed conditioning work on the side last Thursday, signaling that he's making progress in his recovery. He's missed four games in all due to the health concern (Weeks 2-3 and 5-6), with backup Mac Jones filling in well during Purdy's absence. If Purdy is able to practice Wednesday, he could be on a path to return to action this coming Sunday versus the Falcons.

Spencer Rattler vs Bears
- The second-year QB didn't commit a turnover for the fifth time in six starts to begin the season, but Rattler also wasn't able to produce a touchdown as the Saints had to settle for four Blake Grupe field goals, as well as a one-yard TD run from Taysom Hill. Rattler's 8.7 YPA on Sunday was a season high, as were his 227 passing yards. He'll take a 6:1 TD:INT into a Week 7 matchup against the Bears.

Cam Ward vs Patriots
- The rookie did not have an impressive performance in Week 2. He threw for just 175 yards on the day, and that was made worse by the fact that he added just eight yards on the ground and lost a fumble. He has shown positive signs of potential in his limited action so far, but nothing to justify fantasy managers rostering him at this point.

Start DAK PRESCOTT vs Commanders Prescott continued his excellent season, throwing for three or more touchdowns in his third straight game while also surpassing 250 passing yards for the fourth time in six contests on the campaign. He showed an ongoing strong connection with George Pickens, connecting with him for three gains of more than 30 yards, including scores from 45 and 34 yards away. Prescott's outlook could improve further in Week 7 due to the potential return of CeeDee Lamb (ankle), though Prescott has proven plenty capable of producing without one of his star pass catchers.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 26 39 66.66 294 19 3 0

Start MATTHEW STAFFORD vs Jaguars The Jaguars rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Stafford had a fairly efficient performance, but it was a tough day for the Rams' offense as a whole. They possessed the ball for only 22:05 while also running their offense with a hobbled Puka Nacua (ankle) for nearly three-quarters of the contest. As a result, Stafford failed to throw for multiple touchdowns for the first time since Week 1 and also turned in his lowest yardage total of the season. His outlook for Week 7 against the Jaguars will depend relatively heavily on Nacua's availability.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 23 35 65.71 291 3 2 0

Start C.J. Stroud vs Seahawks The Seahawks rank #31 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Stroud faced a thinned version of the Baltimore defense that was missing Kyle Hamilton (groin), Marlon Humphrey (calf) and Chidobe Awuzie (hamstring) in its secondary alone. He took advantage of the good spot, throwing more than three touchdowns for only the second time in his career while completing three passes of at least 20 yards. Stroud was ultimately pulled early in the fourth quarter due to the game being a blowout, but it was a positive fantasy performance and also a good showing for the Houston offense overall.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 24 35 68.57 284 15 3 0

Rewards...

Jayden Daniels vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. As his collection of numbers indicates, it was a mixed bag of a night for Daniels in his second game back from a knee sprain that cost him a pair of contests. The second-year signal-caller threw a season-high three touchdown passes, connecting with Chris Moore (22 yards), Luke McCaffrey (33 yards) and Zach Ertz (six yards) to erase 13-0 and 16-10 deficits. However, Daniels' first-quarter interception, his first of the season, led to a Bears field goal, and his fumble at Chicago's 45-yard line on an attempted handoff to Jacory Croskey-Merritt with 3:10 remaining and Washington clinging to a two-point lead would eventually result in a game-winning field goal by opposing kicker Jake Moody. Daniels also took three sacks, and this was his first multi-turnover tally of the season. The star quarterback and his teammates don't have time to dwell on the last-second defeat, however, as a road date with the arch-rival Cowboys awaits Sunday afternoon.

Justin Fields vs Panthers
-  Coach Aaron Glenn admitted Monday that Fields, who completed just nine of 17 pass attempts for 45 yards while absorbing nine sacks, "took a step back" in Sunday's 13-11 loss to the Broncos in London, but the current plan is to stick with the 26-year-old under center. Behind Fields on the depth chart are 36-year-old Tyrod Taylor, who is a known commodity as a reliable veteran backup at this stage of his career, and undrafted rookie Brady Cook on the practice squad. Taylor isn't a long-term answer, and Cook likely isn't ready for regular-season NFL action. Things could change if Fields doesn't rebound and show signs of improvement.

JARED GOFF vs Buccaneers
- Goff had an interesting start to the game, as he had a touchdown catch nullified by a penalty on Detroit's opening possession. He was out-dueled by Patrick Mahomes from there, but he still turned in a decent performance, highlighted by three completions at least 20 yards -- including a 22-yard touchdown connection with Jameson Williams. Goff now has multiple scores in each of his last three games.

PATRICK MAHOMES vs Raiders
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. It was a masterful performance from Mahomes on the national stage as he methodically dismantled Detroit's defense to the tune of a 132.2 passer rating. The 29-year-old posted his second four-touchdown game over his last three starts, quickly putting his slow start to the campaign in the rearview mirror. His fourth rushing score this season also tied the regular-season high he set back in 2022. A red-hot Mahomes will set his sights on a division foe when the Chiefs host the Raiders next Sunday.

BAKER MAYFIELD vs Lions
- Mayfield produced a sterling 139.0 passer rating against a 49ers defense that was helpless after losing LB Fred Warner (ankle) early in the contest. The Buccaneers also suffered a key loss early on when WR Emeka Egbuka (hamstring) exited the game after recording just two receptions. This meant that Mayfield had to finish off the win sans his three top weapons, with Mike Evans (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (fibula) in street clothes Sunday. The 30-year-old Mayfield overcame expectations and produced his fifth multi-score game through six starts. With the Buccaneers visiting the Lions on Monday Night Football in Week 7, it will be important for fantasy managers to note which receivers Mayfield will have at his disposal before making roster decisions.

AARON RODGERS vs Bengals
-  The Bengals rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Rodgers has been efficient for the Steelers this season with three games with at least two touchdown passes. He will be facing a Cincinnati Bengals defense that has struggled at times against the pass but should only be a starting option in two-quarterback leagues.

Caleb Williams vs Saints
-  Williams didn't post gaudy numbers on Monday Night Football, but he played a clean game while lifting the Bears to a third straight victory. The 2024 first-overall pick won the individual battle between the top two quarterback selections from that draft, but Jayden Daniels arguably had the superior fantasy score after hitting pay dirt thrice in a losing effort. Williams has been looking more comfortable running head coach Ben Johnson's offense with each passing week, a trend the duo will look to maintain against the Saints on Sunday.

Sit Rico Dowdle vs Jets Canales has little to gain by naming either running back (Chuba Hubbard or Dowdle) the starter six days ahead of the team's next game. More likely than not, Dowdle will get the nod in Week 7 against the Jets regardless of how healthy Hubbard is as the team likely tries to ease Hubbard back into the mix. If Dowdle can somehow eclipse 200 total yards of offense for the third straight game, Canales would likely be compelled to keep riding him. However, it is more likely this becomes a committee again at some point in the near future.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 13 42 2 7 0

Sit Travis Etienne Jr. vs Rams Etienne was absolutely stonewalled on the ground by a talented Seahawks front seven, although he was able to partly atone for the shortfall with a solid day through the air that saw him post new season highs in receptions, receiving yards and targets. The fifth-year back now has back-to-back 12-carry tallies after opening the season with at least 14 rush attempts in each of the first four games, but he remains the Jaguars' unquestioned No. 1 back and next faces a Rams defense that was gashed by the Ravens' Derrick Henry in Week 6.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 12 41 2 7 0

Sit Bam Knight vs Packers Surprise. Bam Knight is the lead back in Arizona. Despite Michael Carter playing 58% of snaps in Week 5 and finishing as the RB11 in half-PPR scoring for the week, the Cardinals apparently didn't appreciate his 18 carries for 58 yards. Knight led the charge this week, playing 37 snaps to Carter's 32, with Emari Demercado playing only three snaps. Knight carried the ball 11 times for 34 yards and a touchdown on Sunday versus the Colts and added one catch for 20 yards. Knight has scored a touchdown in each of his last two games. Although Knight's weekly upside is limited to the productivity of the offense, quarterback Kyler Murray has a good chance to return next week. Knight is a solid Flex play as long as Trey Benson (knee) remains out of the Cardinals' lineup.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 9 28 1 4 0

Sit Kimani Vidal vs Colts Vidal saw significantly more work on Sunday with Omarion Hampton (ankle) recently placed on IR for the Chargers. He looked phenomenal in his new role, finishing with over 130 total yards and a touchdown on 21 touches. He will be tested with tougher matchups against the Colts and Vikings over the next couple of weeks, but fantasy managers should still feel good about starting him after this great performance.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 12 34 2 8 0

Risks...

De'Von Achane vs Browns
-  The Browns rank #1 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Achane had been uncharacteristically bottled up by the Panthers in Week 5, but the electric back set an early tone Sunday with a 49-yard breakaway touchdown run with just over four minutes remaining in the first quarter. He'd go on to add a four-yard scoring scamper with just under eight minutes left in the contest, a score that narrowed a 26-13 deficit. Achane eclipsed the century mark for the first time this season with Sunday's production, and his carry total was his second highest through the first six contests. The third-year back should play a key role again during a Week 7 road clash against the tough Browns defense.

Chase Brown vs Steelers
-  Brown finally showed some efficiency on the ground thanks primarily to a 13-yard run shortly before halftime. However, his day was defined by a shift in touch allocation in the Cincinnati backfield, with Samaje Perine earning eight total touches to Brown's 11. Game script may have dictated that late in the contest, but Perine drew the Bengals' first carry and recorded only two of his touches when the team was in a hopeless situation on the scoreboard. There's no obvious candidate to fully displace Brown in the Cincinnati backfield, but this was the team's first signal that it may be growing weary of his lack of efficiency.

Michael Carter vs Packers
-  The Packers rank #4 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Prior to the game, it was announced that Bam Knight would serve in the lead-back role, theoretically relegating Carter to complementary duties. However, Carter ended up lagging just two carries behind Knight while equaling his teammate's rushing yardage, and he provided a nice chunk play as a receiver with a 16-yard catch. Although Knight did score a short rushing touchdown, the gap between the two players doesn't seem to be much heading into a Week 7 home matchup against the Packers next Sunday afternoon.

Jahmyr Gibbs vs Buccaneers
-  The Buccaneers rank #5 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Gibbs regained control of the Detroit backfield by a comfortable margin, out-touching David Montgomery 18-6. However, he had only five touches in the second half as the Lions were forced into a pass-heavy offense. Gibbs was inefficient with his opportunity on the ground, but the bigger concern is his lack of involvement as a pass catcher. He now has two or fewer catches in three consecutive games while recording a total of 39 receiving yards in that span. Despite some shortcomings in his profile, Gibbs' role in a strong offense will keep him as a must-start option, with Sunday's loss marking only the second time in six contests that he's failed to find the end zone.

Hassan Haskins vs Colts
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Haskins was supposed to be part of a committee with Kimani Vidal replacing the injured Omarion Hampton (IR, ankle), but Vidal quickly proved to be the far more explosive back and ran away with the workload in the second half, finishing with 124 rushing yards and 14 receiving yards plus a touchdown. That's about as definitive of a difference as one could envision and likely means Haskins, who has primarily been a special-teams player during his time with the Chargers, could get squeezed out of platoon work after Vidal's amazing efforts. It's worth noting Miami's run defense is one of the worst in the league, and the Chargers could lean on the bruising Michigan product in short-yardage situations in future weeks.

Chuba Hubbard vs Jets
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Hubbard missed every practice for a second straight week, leaving Rico Dowdle as the leader of Carolina's backfield after his 206-yard rushing performance in last Sunday's win over the Dolphins. Dowdle gets another favorable matchup this coming Sunday, facing his former team in a game that's tied for the second-highest over/under (49.5) of Week 6.

Tony Pollard vs Patriots
-  The Patriots rank #3 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Pollard finished with his worst fantasy score of the season in a seemingly promising matchup against the Raiders defense. The veteran starter still led Tennessee's backfield with 10 carries, finishing five ahead of backup Tyjae Spears. Pollard's reduced touches were rather the result of a poor game script as opposed to a changing of the guard in Tennessee's backfield. Fantasy managers should continue treating Pollard as a potential flex option against the Patriots next Sunday.

Cam Skattebo vs Broncos
-  The Broncos rank #2 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. The rookie RB become the focal point of the Giants offense with Jaxson Dart getting his first career NFL start under center and Tyrone Tracy (shoulder) sidelined, with Skattebo's 27 touches representing a huge increase on the career-high 16 he got last week. That volume on the ground came in a contest that New York led from its opening possession, however, a game script that may not be repeated too often in 2025. Devin Singletary got seven carries as the backup with Tracy out, but Skattebo should remain the unquestioned top option in the backfield Week 5 against the Saints.

Start Jacory Croskey-Merritt vs Cowboys The Cowboys rank #32 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Croskey-Merritt got as many rushing attempts as Austin Ekeler and Jeremy McNichols combined. The highlights of the rookie seventh-round pick's NFL debut were a six-yard touchdown run in the second quarter and a 42-yard run in the fourth. Croskey-Merritt looks like the team's go-to option on early downs heading into Thursday's Week 2 game at Green Bay, but his lack of pass-catching ability should allow Ekeler to stay involved in passing situations.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 17 96 2 12 1

Start Josh Jacobs vs Cardinals The Packers had an efficient offensive day, both on the ground and through the air. Jacobs unsurprisingly led the way as a rusher, ripping off long runs of 16 and 14 yards -- the latter of which went for a touchdown to kick off the fourth quarter. He also turned in his third straight game with at least four catches. Despite not reaching 100 rushing yards in any game, Jacobs has found the end zone six times in five contests and remains one of the most reliable fantasy contributors at running back.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 19 108 2 11 2

Start Quinshon Judkins vs Dolphins Finally, Judkins is being viewed as a top option for fantasy football. After being charged with misdemeanour domestic violance and battery against his girlfriend this offseason, it was not your typical start to an NFL career. After signing his contract with the Browns, he has been one of the league's best rushers. However, last week was not his best outing. Despite having 100 yards or a score in each of his three previous games, he only had 36 yards against a beatable Steelers defense. The concern here is that the Browns are not good offensively, and Judkins has yet to play over 60% of snaps this season. Thankfully, they play the Dolphins this week, who have allowed Rico Dowdle to rush for 200 yards and Kamani Vidal to top 128 yards in their last two games. This could be a huge week for the rookie back, against the worst run defense in the league.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 17 98 2 12 2

Start Rhamondre Stevenson vs Titans The Titans rank #28 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. The fifth-year RB avoided committing another fumble, but that was about the only silver lining to his performance. Stevenson has failed to reach 40 rushing yards in four straight games, producing a woeful 2.7 YPC over that stretch, and only a couple Week 5 rushing TDs have salvaged any real fantasy value for him during that span. TreVeyon Henderson hasn't had much more success, so the duo will likely continue to work in a timeshare in Week 7 against the Titans.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 15 74 3 18 1

Rewards...

Saquon Barkley vs Vikings
-  Barkley was set up well on paper for a matchup against the Giants' porous run defense, but game script would eventually cap his opportunities and lead to his second-lowest carry total of the campaign. He was efficient with his opportunities, averaging an encouraging 4.8 yards per carry after posting 5.0 yards per tote in the Week 5 loss to the Broncos. Barkley has still to crack the 90-yard mark on the ground through six games, however, and he's still averaging just 3.4 yards per carry on the season thanks to a slow start to the season. Barkley will have a tough Week 7 challenge on his hands as well, considering the talented Vikings defense awaits in a Week 7 road matchup on Sunday, Oct. 19.

ALVIN KAMARA vs Bears
-  The Bears rank #30 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. After dealing with an ankle injury during the week in practice, Kamara didn't seem particularly bothered by the issue as he saw at least 15 touches for the fourth time in the last five games and produced 70-plus scrimmage yards for the third time in that span. Kamara has 314 rushing yards and a 22-122-0 receiving line on 26 targets through six contests, but a Week 1 rushing TD has been his only trip to the end zone so far. He'll look to end his scoring drought in Week 7 against the Bears.

Christian McCaffrey vs Falcons
- He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. McCaffrey scored his first regular-season touchdown since the 2023 campaign after being held out of the end zone as a runner over his previous five starts this year and all four healthy appearances in 2024. The dual-threat superstar has been in the doldrums as a pure rusher this season (3.1 YPC), but he has offset that with WR1 production as a receiver (46-444-3). In fact, CMC has finished with more receiving yards than rushing yards in five of his six starts this year, highlighting a peculiar start to his game logs. Fantasy managers could care less how their workhorse gets his numbers so long as the overall production is elite, as it has been all season. McCaffrey will likely be asked to continue shouldering the load for the 49ers' offense against the Falcons on Sunday Night Football in Week 7.

Bijan Robinson vs 49ers
-  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. Fresh off of recording a new career high in total yardage (181) in the Falcons' last win, Robinson wasted no time setting a new high-water mark with 238 yards from scrimmage against the Bills. The majority of the fantasy star's production came on the ground this time around, with Monday's 170 rushing yards representing another career best. Robinson is providing a whopping 164.4 combined yards per game for his managers this season. To put that into perspective, the Texas product averaged 111.0 total yards per game over the course of his breakout fantasy campaign in 2024. Robinson's domination of opposing defenses should continue Week 7 against a 49ers defense that will be without star players Fred Warner (ankle) and Nick Bosa (knee).

Jonathan Taylor vs Chargers
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Taylor put together another signature stat line, averaging 5.9 yards per carry on his way to his second-highest rushing yardage total of the season. He also scored his fourth touchdown of the last two games on a one-yard rush with under five minutes remaining to erase a 27-24 deficit and put the final points of the day up on the board. Taylor is already sitting on 603 rushing yards, seven rush TDs and an average of 5.3 yards per carry through six contests, and he'll face the Chargers' porous run defense in a Week 7 road showdown next Sunday.

Javonte Williams vs Commanders
-  The Cowboys were forced into a relatively pass-heavy game script as they kept pace with the Panthers. That limited Williams to a season-low 13 carries, but the primary issue was his lack of efficiency. Williams' longest rush went for only six yards, and his longest reception was good for only nine yards. The positive takeaway is that Williams earned 18 touches and the next closest Dallas back (Jaydon Blue) had only three. Williams should have a strong chance to bounce back in Week 7 against Washington.

Kyren Williams vs Jaguars
-  The Rams possessed the ball for only 22:05 of game time while averaging only 4.7 yards per play. That led to modest stat lines for the entire skills corps, though Williams was on the better end of things thanks to a three-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter. One play earlier, he made a falling 30-yard reception on fourth down that kept the drive alive. Overall, Williams delivered a well-rounded stat line and also kept the ball secure after losing a fumble in each of his last two games.

Sit Josh Downs vs Chargers The Chargers rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Downs' day got off on the right foot with receptions of nine, 11 and five yards on the opening drive, and he ultimately added his first touchdown catch of the season on a five-yard grab early in the fourth quarter. Downs has back-to-back six-catch efforts heading into a Week 7 road matchup against the Chargers, and he's logged at least five targets in three consecutive contests.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 33 0

Sit Jauan Jennings vs Falcons The Falcons rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Jennings missed Week 5 against the Rams with the injury but returned to the lineup Sunday against Tampa Bay. However, he was almost nonexistent in the box score, finishing with just one catch for seven yards as an afterthought in the passing game. Jennings didn't look anywhere near 100 percent health. Kendrick Bourne turned in another stellar performance, securing five of nine targets for 142 yards as Mac Jones' preferred go-to option. Jennings will be hard to trust in fantasy lineups next Sunday against Atlanta.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 2 17 0

Sit Wan'Dale Robinson vs Broncos The Broncos rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Robinson's catch and yardage totals were both team highs for the Giants on the night, and his target tally was second only to that of Lil'Jordan Humphrey. The highlight of Robinson's night was his 35-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter, his second score of the campaign. Robinson now has seen seven targets apiece in his first two full games without Malik Nabers (IR, knee), and his involvement should remain elevated during a tough Week 7 road matchup against the Broncos on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 36 0

Sit DeVonta Smith vs Vikings The Vikings rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Smith was third across the board to Dallas Goedert and A.J. Brown in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the night, and his overall numbers represented a significant downturn from his season-best effort against the Broncos on Sunday. Smith recorded exactly half of the receptions and targets he had in that contest, while his yardage tally was a sharp decline from the 114 he managed versus Denver. His first opportunity to bounce back will come against the Vikings in a Week 7 road matchup on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 39 0

Risks...

KENDRICK BOURNE vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Fresh off posting a career-best 142 receiving yards against the Rams in Week 5, Bourne likely made his managers double take at the box score after hitting that same mark in consecutive contests. The 29-year-old has shown great chemistry with old teammate Mac Jones, as the former Patriots continue to post video-game numbers filling in for injured 49ers starters in 2025. Bourne continued starting in place of Ricky Pearsall (knee) while Jauan Jennings (ribs) returned in a limited capacity but revealed that he was playing with five broken ribs after the contest. If Pearsall is forced to miss a third consecutive game in Week 7, then Bourne's stock would remain elevated for next Sunday's tilt against the Falcons.

Kayshon Boutte vs Titans
-  While his target volume was modest, it was Boutte's biggest share since Week 1, and he led the Patriots in receptions and receiving yards Sunday while hauling in scores of 25 and 29 yards from Drake Maye in the first half. Boutte will take an 18-301-3 line on 23 targets this season into a Week 7 clash with the Titans, and with Maye seemingly headed for a breakout campaign, the third-year wideout's fantasy value may be on the upswing.

A.J. Brown vs Vikings
-  The Vikings rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. This comes with the territory for a big market team that's the defending Super Bowl champs, but the drama surrounding the Eagles' key offensive players has been exhausting. However, it's prudent to remember how the Eagles' offense was also off-kilter at this point in the season last year, too.

Darius Slayton vs Broncos
-  The Broncos rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Slayton will miss Thursday's divisional matchup due to a hamstring injury sustained during Sunday's loss to the Saints. His next opportunity to take the field will come Sunday, Oct. 19 on the road against Denver in Week 7. With Slayton unavailable Thursday, Lil'Jordan Humphrey is expected to be elevated from the practice squad.

Start Nico Collins vs Seahawks The Seahawks rank #31 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. It was a solid day for Collins, highlighted by long gains of 24 and 14 yards as well as a 10-yard touchdown. However, he finished third on the team in receiving yards and was out-targeted by Dalton Schultz. That was likely affected by game script -- C.J. Stroud attempted only 10 passes in the second half and was benched for most of the fourth quarter -- but Collins has now seen six or fewer targets and recorded under 55 receiving yards in three of five games this season. His three touchdowns have covered up some of that lack of volume, but Collins hasn't put up the big reception or target totals expected entering the season.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 8 109 1

Start DK Metcalf vs Bengals The Bengals rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Metcalf has caught a touchdown in each of the last four games and has posted 221 receiving yards over the last two games. He will continue to see plenty of targets in the passing game and can be a No. 2 receiver in fantasy leagues.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 96 1

Start Chris Olave vs Bears The fourth-year wideout nearly produced his first 100-yard performance since Week 8 of last season, but Olave instead had to settle for a season high in receiving yards. He's been Spencer Rattler's favorite downfield option by far, seeing double-digit targets in five of six games to begin the campaign en route to a 39-342-1 line on 63 targets overall. Olave will look to stay productive in Week 7 against the Bears.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 92 1

Start Deebo Samuel vs Cowboys The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Samuel wasn't at 100 percent, and although Jayden Daniels kept him involved, the veteran receiver couldn't do much with his opportunities. Samuel posted his second-lowest receiving yardage total of the season, but his injury seemed to play a role. The seven-year pro will look to get healthier ahead of a key Week 7 road matchup against the Cowboys on Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 78 1

Start Jaylen Waddle vs Browns Waddle fell just short of his second consecutive 100-yard effort, but he still led the Dolphins in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon. The 2021 first-round pick has unsurprisingly seen an uptick in involvement during the first two full games Miami has played without Tyreek Hill (IR, knee), posting a combined 12-205-1 receiving line on 17 targets in that pair of contests. Waddle's clear-cut No. 1 receiver role should persist in a Week 7 road matchup against a talented Browns defense.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 7 97 1

Rewards...

DAVANTE ADAMS vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Since exiting the Commanders' Week 3 win over the Raiders due to the quad injury, McLaurin hasn't practiced in any fashion and is set to miss a third straight game Monday, though he's reportedly moved through his rehab program as expected thus far. While the Commanders remain hopeful that McLaurin will be ready to go for a divisional matchup in Week 7, he'll still likely need to take reps in at least one or two practices from next Wednesday through Friday in order to gain clearance to play. With McLaurin in street clothes for another game and with Noah Brown (groin) also sidelined Week 6, Deebo Samuel is expected to serve as the Commanders' top passing-game target for another game, assuming he's able to play through the heel injury that has resulted in him taking a questionable tag into Monday.

Rome Odunze vs Saints
-  Chicago's Week 5 bye didn't benefit Odunze, who saw the four-game scoring streak he started the season with end abruptly Monday. The 23-year-old finished fourth for the Bears in receiving as QB Caleb Williams spread the ball around evenly amongst his targets in the win. Odunze was providing WR1 production prior to Monday's dud, so managers should continue starting the wideout with confidence against the Saints on Sunday.

George Pickens vs Commanders
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Pickens accounted for all three of Dallas' longest plays from scrimmage, recording catches of 45, 34 and 31 yards. That production came in a variety of ways, as he served in his more traditional deep-threat role but also showcased his athleticism with hurdles and jukes to elude defenders. Pickens' touchdown came on a slant route over the middle of the field, and he out-raced defenders for a 34-yard score. He has at least one touchdown in five straight games and now has over 100 receiving yards in consecutive games, stepping up very well in the absence of CeeDee Lamb (ankle).

Rashid Shaheed vs Bears
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. The speedy wideout has caught exactly four passes in five straight games, but Sunday's yardage total was his lowest of the season. Shaheed remains dependent on deep throws for significant fantasy value, but with Spencer Rattler getting more confident and comfortable in coach Kellen Moore's offense, connections like last week's 87-yard TD could become more frequent. Shaheed may have a better chance of making an impact in Week 7 against the Bears.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba vs Texans
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Smith-Njigba was in the familiar position of leading the Seahawks' air attack in receptions, receiving yards and targets, posting a new season high in the middle category along the way. His catch total also tied for second highest of the season, and he added three more grabs of 20-plus yards, the most prominent a 61-yard touchdown on a beautifully thrown ball from QB Sam Darnold. The third-year star now has back-to-back 100-yard tallies for the second time this season and takes a robust 42-696-3 receiving line into a Week 7 home matchup against the Texans on Monday night, Oct. 20.

Amon-Ra St. Brown vs Buccaneers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. St. Brown maintained his role as Jared Goff's favorite target, but it was otherwise a tough showing for him. His longest catch of the day went for only 12 yards, and he also uncharacteristically dropped a pass on a key fourth-down attempt midway through the second quarter, which shifted the momentum of the game. This marked the first time since Week 1 that St. Brown has failed to reach 70 receiving yards, and he should bounce back in Week 7 in a matchup of high-powered offenses against Tampa Bay.

COURTLAND SUTTON vs Giants
-  Sutton traveled overseas to London for Sunday's international tilt, only to be greeted impolitely by Jets' CB Sauce Gardner once the game kicked off. The shutdown corner won his individual matchup against Sutton, holding Denver's No. 1 wideout to just one reception in the narrow victory. This was Sutton's second one-catch performance through six starts this season, which would be concerning if he hadn't posted WR1 numbers in his four other appearances. Sunday's dud can be written off as a bad matchup coupled with an unfavorable game script. Look for Sutton to get back to his productive ways against the Giants next Sunday.

Sit T.J. Hockenson vs Eagles The veteran tight end continued to play a short-area role and finished as the runner-up in receptions for the Vikings while also tying for second in targets. Hockenson provided some key contributions on the Vikings' game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter, making two catches for 20 yards during the possession. He has between four and six receptions in his last three games, but he's yet to top 49 receiving yards in any contest this season heading into the Week 6 bye. The Eagles have held tight ends to the fewest fantasy points per target at 1.15. It's not the first time they've shown excellence defending the position, as they finished 2024 fourth best in that department (1.49) and third best in Adjusted Fantasy Points Added (minus-2.6). Hockenson's 16.9% target share is 15th among tight ends, a modest workload that makes him a shaky fantasy start.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 36 0

Sit Kyle Pitts Sr. vs 49ers Pitts followed up his best performance of the season against the Commanders (5-70-1) with his lowest fantasy score to date on Monday Night Football. Michael Penix was keyed in on Drake London (10-158-1) and Bijan Robinson (6-68-0) in the passing game, leaving scraps for Pitts and the rest of Atlanta's auxiliary options. Pitts still carries a modest 23-223-1 receiving line into a Week 7 road tilt against the 49ers on Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 32 0

Risks...

Brock Bowers vs Chiefs
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Be careful expecting him to come back and be a full go this week.

Pat Freiermuth vs Bengals
- Although Freiermuth recorded a catch Sunday after being held without a target during the Steelers' Week 4 win over Minnesota, he was on the field for just 36 percent of Pittsburgh's offensive snaps against Cleveland, which ranked third among the team's tight ends. Darnell Washington has taken on a larger role over the last two games, and Freiermuth seems to be behind Jonnu Smith as well following Pittsburgh's Week 5 bye. Over his last three games, Freiermuth has secured two of four targets for 17 yards.

Theo Johnson vs Broncos
-  The Broncos rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Johnson had flashed with a season-high six receptions and a pair of touchdowns in the Week 5 loss to the Saints on Sunday, but he was a lot quieter four days later despite the Giants' successful night on offense. Nevertheless, he finished with at least four targets for the third straight game, and he appears to have a solid rapport with rookie signal-caller Jaxson Dart heading into a challenging Week 7 road matchup against the Broncos on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Hunter Long vs Rams
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. With Brenton Strange (hip) missing the second half of Monday's win, Long was the biggest beneficiary in terms of playing time, as he logged a season-high 60 percent of the offensive snaps. Long did little with the added playing time and has a 7-44-2 receiving line on eight targets across five games this season.

David Njoku vs Dolphins
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). The Browns initially reported that Njoku was dealing with a thigh issue. Either way, the tight end's status will need to be monitored ahead of next weekend's game against the Dolphins. In the event that Njoku is sidelined further, Harold Fannin would be in line to see added TE targets, with Blake Whiteheart mixing in as well.

Chig Okonkwo vs Patriots
-  Okonkwo's six targets Sunday tied his previous season high, while the six grabs set a new high-water mark through six starts. Aside from a one-catch dud in Week 4, the veteran tight end has carved out a consistent role in the passing game. Okonkwo will carry a 23-218-0 receiving line into next Sunday's tilt against the Patriots. The Titans rank dead last in offensive production and can't sustain drives, so there's no reason to start Chig right now.

JONNU SMITH vs Bengals
- Smith was on the field for just 25 percent of the Steelers' offensive snaps in Week 4, but he saw a much larger workload following the team's Week 5 bye. He played 69 percent of the team's offensive snaps against Cleveland, which still lagged behind Darnell Washington's 80 percent, but it signaled that Smith appears to have moved past the hip injury that plagued him before the bye. Over Smith's first five appearances of the season, he's secured 17 of 20 targets for 89 yards and a touchdown.

Jake Tonges vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Tonges continued doing his best George Kittle (hamstring) impression in another effective spot-start Sunday. The 25-year-old Tonges has been a pleasant surprise in fantasy during his brief run as the starter, posting a 25-223-3 receiving line through six games. David Lombardi of SFStandard.com reported that Kittle could return from injured reserve in Week 7, which would effectively end Tonges' run of utility. Managers should wait until Kittle is officially activated before making any rash decisions regarding Tonges in Week 7 and onward.

Start DALLAS GOEDERT vs Vikings Despite Minnesota's elite pass rush, they are allowing the 11th-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends Goedert led the Eagles across the board in receptions, receiving yards and targets with those marks, and his game-best 36-yard catch also qualified as a season-high figure. The veteran tight end has scored all five of his touchdowns this season over the last four games, and that tally ties a career best for Goedert, who also recorded the same number of trips to the end zone in 2019. With 20 targets in his last two games alone, Goedert will remain a highly viable option in all formats during a Week 7 road matchup against the Vikings on Sunday, Oct. 19. With Jalen Hurts struggling to find consistent chemistry with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, and Saquon Barkley failing to replace his record-setting 2024 numbers, the Eagles may continue to lean on Goedert as Hurts' safety valve over the middle and Philadelphia's most consistent red-zone threat.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 61 1

Start Mason Taylor vs Panthers Taylor has one of this week's best matchups as the Panthers have afforded tight ends a league-most 2.45 fantasy points per target, and they're the only team to have seen an individual tight end score at least 7.9 points against them in all six weeks.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 5 51 1

Rewards...

ZACH ERTZ vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Following a Week 5 blanking at the hands of the Chargers, Ertz enjoyed a noteworthy resurgence in Monday's narrow loss. The veteran tight end led the Commanders in receptions and targets while checking in behind only Chris Moore in receiving yards. Ertz also posted his first touchdown since Week 2 on a six-yard scoring grab early in the fourth quarter, rounding out an encouraging night that also saw him tie a season high in receptions. He should have a good chance at carrying over his momentum into Week 7, as he'll face the Cowboys' vulnerable defense on the road.

Harold Fannin Jr. vs Dolphins
- With David Njoku potentially sidelined with a knee injury, Fannin becomes Cleveland's primary tight end. Miami's defense has struggled against tight ends all season, allowing significant production through the middle.

Jake Ferguson vs Commanders
- Jake Ferguson has been dominating the target share in Dallas, becoming the top tight end with CeeDee Lamb sidelined. This Cowboys/Commanders matchup could turn high-scoring very quickly, where both defenses have proven to be near the league's bottom while both offenses are flourishing. erguson leads all tight ends in fantasy points over the past three weeks with elite target volume Defensive Matchup: Washington's defense ranks near the bottom against tight ends, allowing significant yardage through the middle of the field

HUNTER HENRY vs Titans
-  Through six games, Henry has maintained steady playing time while recording a 20-277-3 receiving line on 31 targets. Though his volume has tapered off over his last three outings, the tight end remains a viable red-zone option for QB Drake Maye and a candidate to see increased targets on any given week, when game script and/or game flow dictate. This may be that week. Tennessee's defense has been exploited by tight ends all season, and Drake Maye continues to develop chemistry with Henry.

TYLER HIGBEE vs Jaguars
-  The Jaguars rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The Rams had a disjointed offensive showing, as they were out-possessed by a wide margin by the Ravens and were also dealing with a hobbled Puka Nacua (ankle). Higbee stepped up to lead the team in receiving yards while tallying the game-clinching score early in the third quarter on an eight-yard reception. That was Higbee's first touchdown of the season, and Sunday marked only the third time he's recorded multiple catches in a game.

Sam LaPorta vs Buccaneers
-  LaPorta faces a depleted Buccaneers defense in a Monday Night Football shootout. This Lions/Bucs matchup could turn high-scoring very quickly. Tampa Bay's defense has been vulnerable to tight ends, especially with injuries to their linebacker corps.

Trey McBride vs Packers
-  The Packers rank #29 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' leader in receptions and targets and checked in just behind Zay Jones in receiving yards while working with Jacoby Brissett as his quarterback in the absence of Kyler Murray (foot). The veteran tight end's reception and yardage totals also were new season highs, and his target tally tied a high-water mark he'd reached two games prior against the Seahawks. Despite the superior production and his second TD catch of the season, McBride's day ended in frustration when he didn't get a pass interference call in the end zone he felt was warranted on the Cardinals' final play of the contest, a pass that fell incomplete. With talk of a potential multi-game absence for Murray, McBride's evident chemistry with Brissett is encouraging heading into a daunting Week 7 home matchup against the Packers next Sunday afternoon.

Tyler Warren vs Chargers
- Warren is seeing similar situations as quarterback Daniel Jones has been pushing the ball downfield at an insane rate, with Warren fast becoming the No. 2 focus behind Jonathan Taylor. The Colts' offense remains one of the most explosive units in football and the #2 TE in fantasy football is worth keeping in your lineup.

Sit HARRISON BUTKER vs Raiders The veteran kicker from Georgia Tech has now missed three extra-point attempts through six games this year, after missing just two during the 2024 regular season. Butker has also converted on 11 of his 14 field-goal tries, with all misses coming from 40-plus yards. His next opportunity to kick will come in Kansas City's Week 7 matchup against the Raiders.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 0 1 4

Sit JASON MYERS vs Texans Myers made field goals from 24 and 53 yards, getting back on track after missing his only field-goal try in Week 5. The kicker has now made multiple field goals in four of the team's six contests this year. That said, this is a tough matchup against the Jaguars, but this week faces the Texans, where no opposing kicker has scored more than five fantasy points against them this season.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 0 1 3

Risks...

DANIEL CARLSON vs Chiefs
- Carlson scored 10 fantasy points in last week's win over the Titans but had been held to five or fewer points in each of his previous three games, and he faces a matchup against a Chiefs defense that's allowed just nine field-goal conversions after six weeks with just one kicker reaching double digits against them.

Joshua Karty vs Jaguars
-  The second-year pro from Stanford has now missed a field goal in consecutive weeks, with his miss in Week 6 coming from just 26 yards out. Karty has made 10 of 14 field-goal tries and 14 of 16 extra-point attempts through the Rams first six games this season. His next opportunity to score will come in the Week 7 matchup against the Jaguars.Karty was a dud last week, missing a field goal and scoring just four fantasy points, and he faces a Jaguars defense that's given up just five field goals with no opposing kicker scoring more than seven fantasy points in their first five contests

Evan McPherson vs Steelers
- McPherson has struggled all season with minimal field goal attempts due to Cincinnati's offensive dysfunction without Joe Burrow. Even with Joe Flacco now starting, the Bengals' offense can't sustain drives.

Start Cameron Dicker vs Colts Dicker continues to cement his status as the most accurate kicker in NFL history as the Chargers head into a top-flight matchup against the Colts, and given the muscle on both defenses, we could see a game where the kickers are getting work from the middle part of the field.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Start EDDY PIÑEIRO vs Falcons Pineiro may have been the story of Week 6, connecting on four field goals including a 59-yard make, resulting in a season-high 18.0 fantasy points. He's currently listed as the No. 2 kicker in all of fantasy with 64.0 points this season but is only being rostered in 25.9% of ESPN leagues. Atlanta has conceded the fourth-most fantasy points to kickers and ranks near the top in opponent field goal tries, and the 49ers' offense tends to stall in opposing territory, meaning Pineiro sees work.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Rewards...

BRANDON AUBREY vs Commanders
- Aubrey occupies the top spot for Week 7, facing the Washington Commanders in a divisional showdown where both defenses have proven to be near the league's bottom while both offenses are flourishing, so we should see a ton of points scored in that game. Aubrey leads all kickers with the most fantasy points this season and has been incredibly consistent.

CHRIS BOSWELL vs Bengals
- in three of his four games this season, he converted multiple field goal attempts, with eight of his nine field goals from the bonus range and three field goals from 50 or more yards.

Chase McLaughlin vs Lions
- McLaughlin is in a similar boat to Aubrey as a Lions/Bucs matchup could turn high-scoring very quickly. McLaughlin has had multiple field goals in both of his last two games, converting on three field goals of 42, 65, and 59 yards in Week 4, with six of his field goals from the bonus range and four from 50 or more yards.

Will Reichard vs Eagles
- Reichard has scored eight or more points in four of his first five games, facing the Eagles whose defense has allowed an average of more than 10 points per game to kickers, and four enemy booters have beaten them for at least nine points, including two who have recorded at least 15 points.

Sit Washington Commanders vs Cowboys Dallas's offense moves the ball with Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. The Cowboys average 24 points per game (22nd) but have been more explosive recently. Washington's defense has been solid but faces a tough road environment. Why Sit Them? Dallas at home is a different animal. The Cowboys' offensive line protects well, and Washington's pass rush isn't elite enough to disrupt Prescott's rhythm. This figures to be a high-scoring affair.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Sit Detroit Lions vs Buccaneers Even though the Bucs offense has a lot of injuries and missing players, the Lions secondary is expected to be without 3/4 of their starters and their last remaining starter is significantly dinged up and has been in and out of the lineup at far less than 100%. The Bucs should still be a solid bet this week.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 2 0 0

Sit Minnesota Vikings vs Eagles The Eagles don't turn the ball over very much and haven't allowed many sacks, so the Vikings defense shouldn't clip their wings this week.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Risks...

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Lions
-  Kancey was forced out during the first half of Monday's game, and follow-up imaging Tuesday confirmed the Buccaneers' worst fears. The loss of the 24-year-old for the remainder of the season represents a major hit to the Tampa Bay pass rush, after Kancey accrued 11.5 sacks in 28 games through his first two-plus seasons since entering the league as a first-round selection in 2023. Elijah Roberts and Greg Gaines could both see expanded roles on the defensive line alongside starters Vita Vea and Logan Hall for the duration of the season.

Atlanta Falcons vs 49ers
- The Falcons were surprisingly good against the Bills last week. San Francisco, even injured, has enough weapons to score. The 49ers allow 13 points per game (6th) on defense, showing their offense controls possession. Brock Purdy doesn't make mistakes, and Kyle Shanahan's scheme creates open receivers. Prime time on the road is tough.

Green Bay Packers vs Cardinals
- The Eagles' defense hasn't been quite as elite as usual, and the Vikings allow just 5.8 fantasy points to opposing defenses over the last four weeks. Minnesota's offense is balanced with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison creating matchup nightmares. Minnesota is coming off a bye week, fully rested and prepared. The Vikings average 24 points per game (22nd)

Start Denver Broncos vs Giants The Broncos rank 1st in the NFL in pressure rate, 1st in EPA per play allowed, 1st in conversion rate allowed, and 4th in opponents' scoring rate. The Broncos finished as the third-ranked defense in Week 6 against the Jets and have averaged 8.8 fantasy points per game so far this season. They face rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart at home in altitude, which significantly affects visiting teams' conditioning and decision-making. Denver allows just 133 yards per game (1st in NFL) and 12 points per game (5th in NFL).

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 1

Start New England Patriots vs Titans The Titans have allowed 12.5 fantasy points per game to opposing defenses over the last month and just allowed the Raiders to finish as the 2nd-highest scoring defense of the week. The Patriots rank 9th in turnover rate, 11th in opponents' scoring rate, and 15th in pressure rate. Tennessee just fired head coach Brian Callahan, creating organizational chaos. Defensive Statistics: New England allows 20 points per game (14th) and has been solid against bad offenses. Tennessee's offense is in complete disarray. Calvin Ridley is likely out with injury, leaving Cam Ward with limited weapons. The Titans may get that mythical post-firing bump, but without Ridley and with organizational turmoil, the Patriots should dominate. Oh yeah, and one more thought, the Titans OL has allowed 19 sacks (2nd-most in the NFL).

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 2

Start Pittsburgh Steelers vs Bengals The Steelers rank 3rd in turnover rate, 7th in EPA per play allowed, and 9th in the NFL in pressure rate. Thursday night games historically favor defenses because offenses have less time to prepare. Cincinnati's offense is dysfunctional. Even with Flacco replacing Jake Browning, the Bengals' offensive line ranks 32nd in pass block win rate. Flacco is a statue in the pocket, and T.J. Watt will feast. The Bengals average just 16 points per game (11th) and have committed multiple turnovers in most games.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 2 1

Rewards...

Cleveland Browns vs Dolphins
- Miami's offense is imploding. Without Hill, defenses can focus on Jaylen Waddle, and the offensive line has been atrocious. Miami allows 33 points per game (29th), showing how much time their defense spends on the field because the offense can't sustain drives. Tua is under constant pressure and will make mistakes.

Kansas City Chiefs vs Raiders
- The Raiders have allowed an average of 10 fantasy points per game to opposing defenses over the last four weeks, 4th-most in the league. The Chiefs rank 5th in the NFL in pressure rate and will face a Raiders offensive line that won't have Kolton Miller and has struggled to find any consistency.

Carolina Panthers vs Jets
- he Panthers could be considered in deeper formats if Garrett Wilson doesn't play with his knee injury, as Justin Fields won't have anybody to throw the ball to.

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