Lineup Locks and Tough Evaluations as NFL Season Progresses

As the NFL season progresses, these important player evaluations become even more critical to fantasy football players and NFL clubs’ decision makers. Some of the athletes were able to firmly establish themselves as lineup locks while others leave question marks in the mind of fantasy managers. What was once a modest but highly talented supporting cast that included players like Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Their contributions have landed them starting slots on teams in Europe’s top leagues. On the other end of the spectrum, some players deserve a closer look, such as rookie Ashton Jeanty.

These recent changes have offered important insights in terms of team rosters and new players’ performances. Daniel Jones, the New York Giants’ starting quarterback, was recently placed on injured reserve, ending his season. In other news, Duke’s Riley Leonard is the new starting QB for the Indianapolis Colts. As this season continues to develop, these dynamics are sure to influence all facets of fantasy football.

Key Lineup Locks

His dual-threat capabilities have made Jalen Hurts an invaluable piece for any fantasy team. His dual-threat chops—or should I say his triple-threat upside, with his huge arm included—make him a weekly lineup lock. The Eagles offense runs through Hurts athleticism, so he is one of the most bang-for-your-buck players contributing to their offensive production.

Saquon Barkley has become a lineup lock, proving his versatility as an elite three-down running back. Barkley has had to fight off injuries this season as well. His ability to accumulate yards by the bunches and find the end zone with regularity makes him indispensable. Beyond that, the fantasy managers can count on him to give them big points week after week.

A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith both remain hot in the Eagles’ offense. Brown’s powerful presence on the field complements Smith’s agility, creating a formidable receiving duo. Both players have shown impressive durability, making sure they’re never out of starting lineups in any fantasy format.

Brock Bowers, Travis Etienne Jr., Jonathan Taylor, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Rico Dowdle, and Tetairoa McMillan have earned their spots as lineup locks. Each player has demonstrated their ability to produce significant fantasy points, making them must-start options for managers looking to maximize their weekly outputs.

Tough Evaluations Ahead

Though many players have already cemented their groundwork as lineup locks, others stand as difficult ADP predictions for fantasy managers. Ashton Jeanty, for example, has a ton of upside but is a hard eval because he hasn’t put consistent performances on tape. It’ll be a balancing act for managers as they consider both his upside and other possibilities in their order.

Chris Olave requires careful consideration. Despite his impressive skill set and potential for big plays, fluctuations in performance can make it difficult for fantasy managers to trust him weekly. Analysts still discuss his availability long-term and his reliability going forward.

With Riley Leonard emerging as the Colts’ starting QB, it adds a further layer of complexity to fantasy evaluations. His early performance was extremely encouraging. JSN pulled in 10 of the 36 passes Leonard targeted him on last week, and their budding connection is becoming clearer by the day. Leonard is replacing himself in his new starting role. Only time will tell how this adjustment will play out, but it’s certainly an improvement to Smith-Njigba’s dynasty value going forward.

Injuries Impacting Rosters

Injuries as always play a big hand as we enter the second half of the season. Daniel Jones’ acute announcement yesterday that he is out for the season only exacerbates this void for the Giants. This is news that not only impacts Jones’ fantasy value, but the guys around him as well.

With Leonard joining the team as Indy’s starting quarterback, expectations rise dramatically for the Colts’ offense as a whole. Pair Allen’s ability to stretch the field with Smith-Njigba’s proficiency at a variety of levels and you’ve got a recipe for abundant production if he hits his stride early.