As the second week of the NFL season nears fantasy football fans are excitedly prepping their lineups. A new crop of players has become lineup staples. They’re primed to step onto the field and continue banging out strong contributions for their respective teams. Joe Burrow, Chase Brown and Ja’Marr Chase are just a few of the important players to watch this week. They’ve all enshrined their statuses as must starts.
Judging by those second-round matchups, it’s sure to be exciting! With new stars like Tyreek Hill and Bijan Robinson finally hitting the NFL and entering the fantasy landscape, fantasy managers are clamoring to sharpen their rosters. This article will look at the most important fantasy relevant players who have lock status for Week 2. More importantly, it emphasizes the ways in which these players can help their teams and win their fantasy leagues.
Quarterback and Running Back Lineup Locks
We’ll talk about those below, leading off with the quarterbacks, Joe Burrow is a clear lineup lock. In theory, he will tattoo their opponents this week, as the Cincinnati Bengals’ signal-caller undoubtedly will. His leadership, coupled with his ability to extend drives and connect with his receivers, will make him an excellent boon to any fantasy team.
Chase Brown joins him as a running back making it firmly into the lineup locks. His knack for making defenders miss and creating yards was on full display last week. Consequently, he gained a firm position on the starting lineup. Given the correct matchup lurking ahead, Brown has the potential to leave a lasting impression.
Plus, De’Von Achane has turned into a dependable running back 2/3 out of nowhere. His unreal speed and flashing agility has gotten fantasy managers drooling. As he gets tested by unforgiving defensive competition in Week 2, he’s very much a player to watch though. Drafting these running backs is key for making a run at winning your fantasy league.
Star Receivers and Tight Ends
As far as wide receivers go, Ja’Marr Chase has cemented himself in my mind as a set-it-and-forget-it lineup choice. Known for his explosive plays and ability to find the end zone, Chase’s rapport with Burrow positions him as a key target in the Bengals’ offense. His impact on the field stretches beyond just the opportunities he decides to take. His mere presence creates openings for others.
The game helped Brian Thomas Jr. further his case as a trusted security blanket and go-to available weapon. His history of reliable performances have certainly made him a fantasy manager’s best friend, always trusted. This week is as good a matchup as he’ll get. He’s likely to return big fantasy values for those who roster him.
T.J. Hockenson is the only other TE we’d call a lineup lock in this one. His route-running skills and ability to catch passes in critical moments make him a valuable option for quarterbacks looking for reliable targets. So as teams look ahead to Week 2, Hockenson’s impact will be crucial.
Emerging Stars and Consistent Performers
Outside of the known stars, there are a few new players rising to the forefront of the fantasy football conversation. In the growing shadow of that star power, Jayden Daniels is making a name of his own. His dual-threat capability means that he can heavily impact the game both through the air and on the ground. In what is normally a bad move due to lineup lock, he provides an interesting play for contrarian teams seeking to deviate from the pack.
Josh Jacobs has an unquestioned role as a three-down workhorse and he’s a lineup lock in Week 2. He shows a willingness to carry the ball, making himself an all-around dangerous player and force. As a threat in the passing game, he’s invaluable for fantasy owners. Jacobs’ extensive experience and versatile skill set brings a steady presence for teams working through this deep and competitive season.
As arguably day one, lineup-lock options, Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel bring added depth to wide receiver rosters. McLaurin’s smooth, deceptive route-running and Samuel’s all-purpose versatility and creativity can take their new offenses to another level. Their continued performance will be vital as teams aim for victory in their fantasy matchups.
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