And just like that the NFL season is almost at its mid-point. So fantasy football players, too, are preparing for hard lineup decisions that can win or lose seasons. Jaxson Dart’s anticipated return promises to provide a more balanced offense for his team, potentially boosting the performance of various offensive players. At the same time, some big injuries and strong play from unexpected players are turning heads around the league.
More than ever, Tennessee’s cornerbacks have made an effort to get involved on defense. Jalyn Armour-Davis, Sam Womack, Marcus Harris and Darrell Baker Jr. have become players. Beyond the optics, their performance will matter a lot in the weeks to come. They’ll be matched up against some of the league’s best wide-outs.
The triumphant return of Brenton Strange off IR was apparent on Sunday. He scored his first TD of the year last week, catching all five of his targets for a career-high 93 yards! His consistency would make him a solid depth option at the tight end position for fantasy owners in search of consistent week-to-week production.
Key Player Performances
Hunter Henry is starting to develop into a more dependable target, picking up big chunks in recent games. He’s found the end zone in three consecutive games and is averaging a whopping 12.5 FPPG in those two weeks. His reliable production is what puts him on the shortlist of players to watch as lineups are finalized for the coming week.
With De’Von Achane, Chris Olave and Jaylen Waddle healthy and firing on all cylinders. Their juicy matchups make them lineup locks this week! Fantasy managers should feel comfortable plugging these guys into their lineups and producing some great returns.
Not all news is positive. Save Alvin Kamara Fantasy managers lost a lot when the star running back left Sunday’s game early after suffering an injury on his 11th snap. His availability for the next game now impossible to determine, putting many fantasy owners in a very precarious situation.
“If you want a more detailed look at some of this data, be sure to check out the weekly Shadow Reports: WR vs. CB Cheat Sheet.” – Mike Clay
Emerging Stars and Notable Players
A new crop of draft picks and undrafted free agents are turning heads as potential breakout stars. Playmakers like Brian Thomas Jr., Emeka Egbuka, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are bursting onto the scene, stealing headlines with their strong showings. Rashid Shaheed and Jauan Jennings deepen rosters, and it wouldn’t be a draft class without George Pickens making waves.
Jonathan Taylor continues to be one of, if not the, most discussed players among fantasy experts. Even with a rough patch at the start of the season, he’ll find his groove when he enters all-star mode coming into the regular season. Texans WR Nico Collins and Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. are generating buzz as they show promise for big-time impact in the future.
Mike Clay noted the fluctuating nature of players’ performances, stating, “There was a point earlier this season in which three Chargers receivers were well worth a spot in fantasy lineups. It’s more of a shaky proposition these days. It has been a struggle.”
Looking Ahead
As teams strategize for their upcoming matchups, fantasy owners must stay informed about player statuses and potential lineup changes. Keeping an eye on injury reports will be key, particularly as it relates to Kamara’s return and Dart’s ability to help his team achieve offensive balance.
The fantasy landscape is equally impacted by the good, bad, and ugly performances of everyone on the field. Perennial Pro Bowler Keenan Allen had some iconic starts to the season. Still, his recent struggles will likely determine how he is used in future lineups.
“McConkey is coming off a rough game (4.3 points) but does have 14.9-plus in five of his past seven and remains the safest play from this unit.” – Mike Clay
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