FF Talk is back on montcoradio.com...for the summer. I'll let you know where we'll be in the Fall in August, but we'll be somewhere, unlike last year. Anyway, for the first show back I re-introduced my 2017 Initial Rankings. Looking back, there'll be a slew of adjustments to make when I update my rankings now that free agency, the draft, and trades have occurred. Also, I conducted our first 2017 mock draft.
However, after careful consideration the mock that took place on air won't be the first 2017 official mock, as I'll be conducting one in its entirety next week. Rankings will be updated no later than July 1. So, check the parenthesis at the end to see when rankings were last updated. As always, give me a follow on Twitter, @theloserjosh, friend me on Facebook and connect on LinkedIn, Joshua Kellem. Cheers,
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Former Bills Interim Head Coach Anthony Lynn has agreed to become the head coach of the San Diego (LA) Chargers. Here's the fantasy impact:
QB: Phillip Rivers (value stabilized) Rivers will remain a top 15 option this year, Lynn doesn't help or hurt his value. RB: Melvin Gordon is solidified as my no. 4 RB going into 2017, as of right now. Lynn helped guide Lesean Mccoy to a top 10 finish this past year, and even had Mike Gillislee provide top 10 fantasy weeks when Mccoy missed time. Danny Woodhead's fantasy value takes a nosedive, based off the last few years in Buffalo, it seems Lynn likes to feature one guy in his backfield. Gordon isn't a liability at RB either, so, barring injury, I don't see much opportunity for Woodhead this year. WR: Keenan Allen is going to be enticing 3rd/4th round this year again. However, we'll have to monitor his status coming off of a ACL injury in training camp. Sammy Watkins was peppered with targets the last few years in Buffalo as the no. 1, the role Allen will resume once healthy. Tyrell Williams will be a solid no. 2 option, but expect regression and a lesser role with the return of Allen. TE: Hunter Henry is poised to break out this year, much like Charles Clay did toward the end of this past season. Except Henry is more athletic and a better talent than Clay. Honestly, I don't know why Antonio Gates is coming back, but expect him to take a backseat for the young gun this year. Sean McVay to the Rams QB: Jared Goff (value up) Look, I'm not predicting a top five finish, but I am expecting significant improvement, top 20? McVay is the man responsible for Kirk Cousins' top five finish in fantasy this year, and now he gets to grow with second year QB: Goff. Goff has a better run game, and a thousand yard WR in Britt. Not to mention, a playmaker in Tavon Austin whose been misused the last few years. RB: Todd Gurley's bounce back season started with this hire. Chalk up last year to a sophomore slump. This year the price tag is a little less, 2nd maybe third round. A top three WR and Gurley wouldn't be a bad way to start your draft this year. McVay got the very best out of Matt Jones and Robert Kelley last year, and I expect him to do the same with a more superior talent in Gurley. WR: Kenny Britt's value is stabilized, but Tavon Austin is a guy I'd target late in every draft. He has the potential to be late round dart throw that becomes the reason you win your league. Think about it: this is the first time Austin has a innovative play maker on Offense. Expect his talents to be put to more noble use. TE: Lance Kendricks isn't Jordan Reed, but he's at least Vernon Davis. Last year when Reed was out, Davis stepped in and stepped up. The offense didn't change a bit, the TE was still featured in the pass attack, averaging close to nine targets a game. Kendricks a sleeper TE you take late. Sean Mcdermott to the Bills. Honestly, I hate this hire, and until they have a OC in place it's hard to gauge the fantasy impact, but, as of right now, I want no parts of any offensive player. At the right price, I'll take Lesean Mccoy, but he'll be 29 and getting up there in workload. I might bite on Sammy Watkins, but we'll have to wait and see who the QB is going to be this season. Vance Joseph to the Broncos as HC, Mike Mccoy as OC QB: Trevor Siemians value is up. From 2010-2012, in his first stint as OC, Mccoy may have had the most successful three years coaching in NFL history. In 2010, he guided stop-gap QB Kyle Orton to statistical career highs. The next season, at 1-5, he curtailed his playbook to fit the strengths of Tim Tebow, going on to finish 8-8 and win a playoff game. Oh, by the way, 31 year old Willis Mcgahee ran for 1,200 yards that season as well. In 2012, he topped it all off by helping Peyton Manning regain form and throw for 37 Passing TD's after missing the entire season before. This was also the breakout years of DT and Eric Decker. RB: C.J. Anderson is a lock to finish top 12 this year for me. Expect Mike Mccoy to feature him more in the passing game as well. I'm going to go out on a limb and predict 1,200 rushing yards at least. WR: Expect DT to climb back into the elite 8 WR's this year. Emmanuel Sanders won't be far along, top 15 at worst. Mccoy will play to the strengths of his players, and fantasy owners will be rewarded. TE: Austin Derby: Potential breakout, see what Hunter Henry did this past season. Doug Marrone takes off the interim tag to become the Head Coach of the Jaguars. QB: Bortles played better the last few games of the season, so, there's that, but nothing from a real life perspective makes me believe Bortles will finish next season as the starter, he's very close to becoming a back up in this league. His top 15 finish is solely from being down in so many games the past two years. Honestly, his stats don't mean anything, not even in fantasy. RB: I believe Chris Ivory takes over as the bellcow, even at this point in his career. (See Fred Jackson in Buffalo 2013-2014). T.J. Yeldon should be the passing downs back, and be viable in PPR. WR: Allen Robinson's a potential bounce back candidate, last year could've just been a sophomore slump. A situation to monitor in training camp, but we have seen WR's be elite fantasy options even with a less than stellar QB (See Brandon Marshall in Chicago). TE: Julius Thomas' fantasy value is stabilized though I think his better seasons are behind him. Stay away. Once San Francisco makes the hire of Kyle Shanahan official, this article will be updated... Again, sorry, there was no week 11 recap: week 12 waiver wire due to holiday travels.
Additionally, at least one radio show will be recorded, if not more, to be uploaded on soundcloud, or some type of platform, this week. However, the show may for week 13. The season debut of 'Secret Sleepers' will come with the show. Remember, FF Talk is the originator of 'Secret Sleepers', not what you see on NFL Network. For many, this is the last week before playoffs and a lot are essentially in a playoff game this week as it's win and in. My main advice, don't get cute. Beside the Titans and Browns, byes are done. Play your studs. MIN-DET: I'm not starting any offensive players on Minnesota this week. You can do worst than the Vikings defense. I actually expect Ezekiel Elliot to dop a dud this week he's due. You're starting Stafford and Riddick. Perhaps Ebron based on position even though he layed a goose egg. 3 Wr or deeper leagues can consider Golden Tate, not Marvin Jones. WAS-DAL: Kirk Cousins: start. Vernon Davis a solid pick up even if Jordan Reed plays. 11 plus in five of the last six games in ppr. Expect Robert Kelley to bounce back. Starting the wrs is tricky. I expect Peterson to shadow Desean Jackson so Crowder then Garcon is who i'm starting, but either one could pop. Do you trust Dak on a thursday night? I will point out he will have had a week to prepare, having played on Thanksgiving. You're starting Elliott and Bryant, but this game just smells like a trap to me. Vikings defense is not a slouch. If you can Davis, I'd start him over Jason Witten. PIT-IND: Expect Luck back this week, feel confident starting him along with Gore, Hilton and Moncrief. I don't trust the TE's but in dire straights, I'm going Allen over Doyle. For the steelers, you are starting the big three, that's it. Eli Rogers is very risky, and I'm not trusting him in a win and in situation. LA-NO: Great game by all saints save Brandin Cooks. However, I'm not getting cute. Saints are at home again this week with a nice match up against the Lions. I'm starting Brees, Ingram, Thomas and Cooks. Deeper leagues can consider Tim Hightower, but too risky for me. Only this week, I advocate starting Todd Gurley and Kenny Britt going up aginst the Saints. If you're feeling lucky, perhaps Tavon Austin gets a start at flex. TEN-CHI: Marquess Wilson worth an add off the waiver wire this week, but can you really trust him with your playoff chances on the line? Jordan Howard the only confident Bear start. ARI-ATL: Cardinals have a nice match up against the Redskins so if you have Mariota, Palmer someone to consider, but that's it. Beside David Johnson, I don't feel confident starting any Cardinal, not even the WR's. If I had to, Fitzgerald, Floyd, Brown. Julio Jones was shadowed by Patrick Peterson last week, but I expect him to pop this week. Don't bother chasing Gabriel off the waiver wire that was a one week fling. You're starting Julio, Ryan, and both rbs. NYG-CLE: If you picked up Eli, keep on rolling with him. Sterling Shephard should get flex consideration, depending on roster. I can't trust any RB in a win and in situation this week, stay away. SD-HOU: Tyrell Williams is a stud, It's a nice match up so if you don't have any other better options, Antonio Gates is an okay TE option. Williams, Gordon, and Rivers the only must starts. I'm only starting Lamar Miller with confidence from Houston. However, it is a nice match up against the Packers, so if you have Hopkins, he's a potential flex play. JAX-BUF: Chris Ivory a nice flex option, but the match up is against Denver. Allen Robinson also a flex option. Not starting anyone else from Jacksonville. Hopefully you picked up Sammy Watkins, I'd flex him this week along with starting Mccoy and Tyrod Taylor a Mariota bye week replacement option. CIN-BAL: Tyler Eifert, that's it for Cincinnati. Jeremy Hill a flex option with little confidence. Terrance West and Kenneth Dixon both flex options, I favor West slightly more. Steve Smith a flex option, perhaps his age is catching up with him after last weeks disappointment. SF-MIA: Kaepernick is a borderline QB1 ROS. If he's out there, I'd pick him up just to make sure my opponent doesn't. Carlos Hyde and Kaepernick solid starts this week. If you are at a bide at TE, Vance Mcdonald is a nice option. Jay Ajayi a must start with the Dolphins WR's in this order: Kenny Stills, Davante Parker, Jarvis Landry, standard and ppr. SEA-TB: Lost game for the Seahawks, Wilson and Graham are both still getting the start. Thomas Rawls a flex play at worst, same for Doug Baldwin. Winston, Martin, Evans, and Brate all worth the start for Tampa Bay. NE-NYJ: I thought Malcolm Mitchel's success was tied to Chris Hogan playing, but it turns out he's just really good. However, Gronk did leave the game and Mitchel was able to take advantage with his second TD. In a must win situation, I'm going Brady and Edelman. If Gronk is out, I think Mitchell has deserved the start in your lineup. I'm holding off James White and Dion Lewis. I'm starting Blount, but not confident about it. Even if Gronk is out, I'd look at other options than Martelleus Bennett. Only Jets worth a start are Matt Forte and Brandon Marshall. CAR-OAK: You're starting Cam and Olsen. Johnathon Stewart a flex consideration as well as Kelvin Benjamin. You're starting Carr. I'm not as confident in starting the WR's, but both are flex plays. Lativius Murray a start, but not sure with how much confidence. KC-DEN: Tyreek Hill is a plug and play guy off the waiver wire this week, going up against the Falcons. Alex Smith a QB to consider to replace Mariota. I advocate starting Spencer Ware this week as well. Travis Kelce always gets the nod. Devontae Booker a flex play. Sanders and Thomas both should get the start, going against the Jaguars. If you're looking for K, Brandon Mcmanus has ten plus in the last three. GB-PHI: James Starks has proved to be a reliable RB2 down the stretch, expect the same this week. You're starting Nelson and Adams, if you have better options, bench Randall Cobb at this point. I can't trust anyone on the Eagles in a must win situation. I feel most confident in Sproles as a flex play. Jordan Matthews a flex consideration as well, but that's it. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: BROWNS, TITANS QB: Colin Kaepernick: 20 plus in every game except one since becoming the starter. Theme for the waiver wire this week are guys who you can pick up and start this week. Kaepernick a guy that should be starting over your current guy right now. Alex Smith: For the Mariota owner, 17 against Denver, 21 the week before in a nice match up against Tampa Bay. This week: Atlanta. Plug and play. Trevor Siemian: For the Mariota owner, 30 plus last week. Taking on the less than stellar Jaguars this week. RB: Handcuff your RB's. Adrian Peterson: If he's out there, pick him up and stash him Ameer Abdullah: (See Peterson) Charles Sims (See Peterson) WR: Sammy Watkins: Knocked off the rust last week with 3 for 80. Going up against the 24th ranked Oakland pass defense. Tyreek Hill: Plug and play option this week going against the Falcons, coming off a three TD game against Denver. Malcolm Mitchell: First, he took advantage of Hogan being out, but last week he did with him back. Gronk leaving accounted for his second TD, but Gronk may miss time. Either way, Mitchell has earned the right to start for especially in PPR even in a must win situation. Marquess Wilson: Worth an add, but I don't trust starting him in a must win situation. TE: Vance Mcdonald: At least 9 PPR points the last four games with two TD's. Vernon Davis: Jordan Reed may miss time, again. However, if he doesn't Davis has had 11 plus in five of the last six games in PPR. I'd play him either way. A.J. Derby: He's slowly getting integrated in the offense with the last two games. Virgil Green didn't even have a catch last week. This is as risky as it gets in a must win situation, but at the TE position, you can afford to be more reckless than at any other position. DEFENSE COWBOYS COLTS BENGALS KICKERS Brandon Mcmanus Matt Prater Cairo Santos CLE-BAL: It's time to dump Dennis Pitta. If he can't get it done against the Browns, he can't do it against anyone. Also, you've got one more week until it will be too late to trade for Steve Smith. All systems go for the rest of the season, which will be his last. Still, only starting Tyrelle Pryor for Cleveland.
KC-CAR: Tyreek Hill needs to be added and in your lineup as long as Jeremy Maclin is out. Going up against the 28th ranked pass defense in Tampa Bay. For the Panthers, two bad games in a row for Johnathon Stewart, but don't worry he gets the Saints on a short week. Keep him faded in. Graham Gano a decent kicker streaming option in this contest, with the potential of a shoot out. DEN-NO: Hell of a way to end a game. However, Siemian was unable to take advantage of the match up, failing to register 20 points. For the Saints, short week, on the road, against a division rival. This smells disaster for the Saints offense, but unfortunately you're probably starting all Saints. However, temper your expectations. LA-NYJ: Dolphins Defense a nice streaming option this week with the announcement of Jared Goff being named the starter for the Rams. Jets get the bye, but look to trade Marshall, and Forte, it's going to get worst before it gets better in New York. GB-TEN: Titans offense is legit. But, even with four TD's, it's hard to tell how they will be dispersed let alone if the feat is obtainable every week. Even in a losing effort, majority of Packers skill players came thru. If James Starks is still available, pick him up ASAP. Got worked in slowly this past week but his workload will only increase as he gets healthier, fair match up against the Redskins this week. ATL-PHI: Matt Ryan is starting to fade out a little bit, hopefully the bye rests him up. Try to trade for Coleman while the Falcons are on bye, he should be back after this week and has a defined role. For the Eagles, I'm going Ryan Matthews over Darren Sproles, but I'm not expecting a hundred yards on the road every week. Matthews took advantage of a nice match up, and unfortunately this week the match up isn't so nice going against the Seahawks. MIN-WAS: Matt Jones is droppable. Robert Kelley is the guy moving forward. If you need a TE, Vernon Davis a guy to plug and play. Quietly, has at least 13 the last four games with two TD's, going against the 26th ranked Defense against the TE this week. For the Vikings, Stefon Diggs a nice PPR WR with 13 catches back to back weeks, but he's the only player I want on this Titanic. HOU-JAX: Deandre Hopkins is droppable. Only want Lamar Miller from the Texans offense. Only want Allen Robinson from the Jaguars offense. However, you can do worst than Blake Bortles at QB, but I will warn all his production is coming from garbage time. If the game is competitive, Bortles numbers will suffer. CHI-TB: Only want Jordan Howard from the Bears offense. By the nature of the position, Zach Miller is an acceptable TE start, but that's it. For the Buccaneers, Cameron Brate has supplemented himself as the no. 2 target in Tampa Bay with three straight TD games, a must start. MIA-SD: Jay Ajayi and Jarvis Landry the only acceptable starts for the Dolphins. Start Stills and Parker at your own accord, but I don't believe Tannehill can support two possibly three pass catchers on a consistent basis. For the Chargers, Tyrell Williams is a stud. Going to be interesting to see how great this offense can be next year with Gordon, Allen, Williams, and Henry. Phillip Rivers a early top 10 QB for 2017, on paper. SF-ARI: Dejaun Harris was fun while it lasted. Carlos Hyde is back and now no RB is worth starting. Going up against the Patriots this week, so, I'd look at other options anyway. Cardinals get the win, but beside David Johnson, it's hard to trust anyone on the offense. Even with a Fitzgerald injury, if he misses time, I don't know if it will be Brown, Floyd, or Nelson who assumes the no. 1 WR role. DAL:PIT: Great game. All main skill players on both sides produced. Eli Rogers worth an add if he's still out there, going against the Browns this week. If you're stuck at TE, Ladarius Green, who made his return last week, should be available and worth a dart throw. SEA:NE: The last two games, we have seen the transformation of the Seahawks offense go from ground and pound, to pass first before our eyes. Christine Michael droppable with the pending return of Thomas Rawls and stellar play of C.J. Prosise. In this pass first offense, Michael just doesn't have a role. Prosise can run and catch. Rawls the same. Michael can't. CIN-NYG: Those who held on to Eifert this long are being rewarded. Cincinatti's run game is bi-polar so while you're not dropping either back, you just don't know what to expect week in and week out. For the Giants, Eli Manning has played stellar since the bye and gets the Bears next, a nice streaming option. Also, I'd consider the Giants defense as a streamer in this match up as well. Rashad Jennings appears to remain the lead back for now, but one bad game and the world may finally be introduced to Rookie RB Paul Perkins. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: FALCONS, BRONCOS, JETS, CHARGERS QB: Blake Bortles: The king of garbage time. At least 20 in the last three starts. Bye week replacement. Eli Manning: Bye week was good to him. 20 plus last two starts. Bears up next. Plug and play. Kirk Cousins: Has played better than you think. Only two games with less than 20 points on the year, going against the 21st ranked pass defense, the Packers. RB: C.J. Prosise: If he's still available, pick him up. Depending on Rawls health, could be the no, 1 RB for the Seahawks going against the Eagles. James Starks: Finally healthy enough to play, Starks returned a solid performance for you last week if you started him. Will only get healthier in the coming weeks. Next up: Redskins. If he's still out there, pick him up. Kadeem Carey; Jordan Howard was banged up last week. In case he can't go, pick up Carey. Speculative add. Handcuff: It's that time of the season. Handcuff at least your no. 1 RB if the not your no. 2 RB as well. WR: Eli Rogers: Since Big Bens return, Rogers has turned in two solid fantasy games. And, going up against the Browns this week, he has the potential to have a monster game. Plug and play WR off the wire. Tyreek Hill: As long as Maclin is out, Hill is the no. 1 WR in KC. 10 for 89 is what he did last week. Next up: Buccaneers. Plug and play. Cameron Meridith: Now the no. 1 WR in Chicago for the time being. Fair match up against the Giants this week. More of s speculative add. Michael Floyd: Larry Fitzgerald may miss time, but, with that being said, it's unknown who will assume the no. 1 WR role. Robert Woods: Could've been dropped because of his bye. Tyrod Taylor has played exceptional even without Watkins, but as of late, Woods has assumed the no.1 wr role. Speculative add. Sammy Watkins: Speculative add. Could be back in the next couple weeks. TE: Vernon Davis: Quitely has strung together four straight games with at least 13 points, including two TD's. Ladarius Green: Made his long awaited debut last week. As good as Ben has played the last two weeks, and going against the Browns this week, you could do worst things than pick up Green and hope for a TD. Eric Ebron: If he was dropped during the bye, pick him up. A must start rest of season. DEFENSE Lions Rams Dolphins KICKERS Sebastian Janikowski Matt Prater Ryan Succop ATL-TB: Matt Ryan and Julio Jones must starts ROS. Off game for Freeman, look for him to bounce back against Philadelphia next week. If Tamme is out, Hooper is a viable option at TE. Breakout game for Jameis Winston as well. Cameron Brate continues to make his case as a TE1 this year. As long as Doug Martin is out, Peyton Barber should get some flex consideration.
DET-MIN: Off game for the Lions bye, entering bye. Ebron is worth carrying thru bye as he's a TE1. Trade Marvin Jones for whatever you can get at this point, has come back down to Earth after a strong start. The mighty Vikings have fallen after starting 5-0. Jerrick Mckinnon and Matt Asiata deserve flex consideration going against the 23rd ranked Washington run defense. Stefon Diggs the only viable WR I'm starting, and Kyle Rudolph because of the nature of the position. PIT-BAL: Steelers offense started slow with Big Ben coming back off injury, but the big three turned in solid fantasy days each. Eli Rogers should be picked him and earn flex consideration against the Cowboys, coming off a 100 yard game. Ravens play the Browns on Thursday night this week, Flacco is a solid bye week replacement. Start West, Smith, and Pitta. NYJ-MIA: Rams defense a must start this week. Rumors have Bryce Petty starting at QB for the Jets. You're starting Forte and Marshall, but temper expectations. Only Dolphin I'm starting is Jay Ajayi for the foreseeable future. DAL-CLE: Cowboys offense capitalized on the Cleveland match up. I'm starting them all except Beaseley against Pittsburgh. Browns play on Thursday night, only must start is Pryor. RB's tend to bold well on Thursday night so there are certainly worst options than playing Crowell and Johnson this week. JAX-KC: Blake Bortles the last two weeks has been like watching the Kardashians. I'm not seeing anything particularly special, but good things keep happening. Not a great match up, but the last two weeks haven't been either. Feel free to start the king of garbage time, Blake Bortles. Allen Robinson should be in your lineup, but it's a crap shoot on what you'll get week to week. After last week, both RB's deserve flex consideration. Chiefs get the Panthers this week, but based on all the injuries, only must start is Travis Kelce. Hope you aren't relying on Alex Smith, but him and Spencer Ware are situations to monitor throughout the week. PHI-NYG: Wentz has came back to Earth after his early season success, but it's a prime match up against the Falcons (See Jameis Winston). Honestly, for this week, both RB's are viable too along with Jordan Matthews. Odell Beckham is back. Eli a bye week replacement QB to consider on Monday night against the Bengals. It's time to drop Rashad Jennings, Paul Perkins is slowly being worked in to become the starter. Pick him up and stash him for the playoffs. CAR-LA: Panthers defense back to must start status. Bye week was good to them. Off game for Johnathon Stewart, solid RB2 ROS. Rams get the Jets, get anything you can for Todd Gurley. Kenny Britt only Ram I'm starting with confidence, Kendricks just by the nature of the position. NO-SF: Tough match up for the Saints this week against the Broncos, but you're starting Brees, Cooks and Thomas. Ingram and Hightower both RB2's, but temper expectations. As long as Hyde is out, Harris a borderline RB1. Tough match up this week though against the Cardinals. TEN-SD: Mariota, Walker and Murray only players from the Titans you're starting with confidence. It's too unpredictable from week to week which WR will catch a TD. Tyrell Williams closing in on must start status for the Chargers. Gates top 5 as long as Henry is out. Melvin Gordon is a must start. IND-GB: Colts get a bye. Jack Doyle worth dropping. Packers get the Titans. Pick up James Starks if he's out there as he should get a crack at the RB drop once he's healthy. For now, continue to start Montgomery, Adams, Cobb, and Nelson. Nice match up for Rodgers in this contest and another nice one against the 26th ranked defense v. the TE this week. DEN-OAK: Oakland get the bye after a tough match up. For one week only, Broncos offense are must start. Siemian a plug and play option against the Saints. Fire up both WR's and Virgil Green as well. BUF-SEA: Buffalo get the bye, but hold on to Tyrod Taylor thru the bye. Gillislee is droppable. Seahawks get the Patriots coming off a bye. Trade Christine Michael for whatever you can at this point. Thomas Rawls a nice RB to pick up and stash for the playoffs. But, for now, it looks like Prosise has surpassed Michael. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: BILLS, LIONS, COLTS, RAIDERS QB: Trevor Siemian: More to do with the match up than the player. Besides weeks 2 and 8, Saints have surrended at least 20 points to every QB faced. Blake Bortles: If he was dropped, pick him up. The Bortles of last year is back. Jaguars are so far out of the game that he just collects major garbage time stats. Could be the case this week against the Texans. Eli Manning: Has been up and down all season, but facing a 27th ranked pass defense. Seems like the bye did wonders for Beckham so he's refocused. Eli a nice bye week replacement. RB: (If you are cruising in your league) Thomas Rawls: Christine Michael has fizzled out. Prosise is a third down back at best. Hopefully you have the roster space, because when he returns, he's got the type of talent to win you your league. James Starks: Will get a crack at the RB job in Green Bay when healthy. If he proves himself, Starks can become a borderline RB1 ROS when healthy. Add and stash. Dion Lewis: The play of James White has afforded Lewis the opportunity to become fully healthy. To be honest, I don't think he returns to the same role he had last year based on how good White has played, but Lewis is worth a speculative add based on upside. (For this week) Dejauhn Harris: As long as Hyde is out, Harris wil be the bellcow. Not a great match up against the Cardinals, but he's coming off a 20 plus point game. Rob Kelley: If he was dropped because of bye, pick him up. Coach Gruden said Matt Jones will have to earn the job back once he's healthy. It's Kelley's job to lose. Paul Perkins: Perkins is being worked in to become the starter slowly. Pick him up as he should be the starter in two weeks. Peyton Barber: Doug Martin is sill out. Antoine Smith is on IR. Not a good match up against the Bears, but if you're RB desperate, here's a starter. WR: Steve Smith: He's back and healthy. Last season, chasing 1,000 receptions. Second half of the season could be special. John Brown: Coming off a bye, probably was dropped, and finally healthy. Pick him up. Fitzgerald was starting to wear down going into the bye. John Brown will take over as the top wide out in the next few weeks. Eli Rogers: Coming off a 100 yard game. Caution, we have seen big games from Rogers before and then see him dissapear, but I think it's legit this time. TE: C.J. Fiedorowicz: Had a nice game before the bye, even though he left in the 2nd quarter. Probably was dropped during his bye. Pick him up, going up against the Jaguars. Vance Mcdonald: 17 pt game against the Saints this past week. Not a good match up this week, but he is clearly a top option in the San Fran pass offense if not the top. Austin Hooper: You were rewarded if you started him last week. As long as Tamme is out again this week, you're starting him again. Situation to monitor. Defense Rams Patriots Texans Kickers Nick Folk Ryan Succop Josh Brown JAX-TEN: Allen Robinson is officially a bust. Don't sell him too cheap, but try to get what you can at this point. Julius Thomas might be a meaningful pick up for those lacking at TE, but I'm staying away from as many Jaguars as possible. For the Titans, Henry is a must add in all leagues. Murray is a little banged, and we saw both rbs be productive at the same time. Kendall Wright worth a speculative add with six teams on bye, going up against the Chargers.
WAS-CIN: The return of Jordan Reed! With that being said, Vernon Davis was still able to be productive, something to take note of when the Redskins come off of their bye. If you have the space, pick up Robert Kelley. Also, it's safe to cut Matt Jones, heading into a bye and possibly losing his job. If Tyler Eifert was dropped after a disappointing return game, pick him up even though he's on bye. He's the type of player you can ride into the fantasy playoffs. ARI-CAR: Palmer had a good game in garbage time, but I don't buy it. John Brown had a solid game, and it looks like he's finally healthy (though he does have sickle cell) at the same time as Palmer. I imagine Brown to take over as the no. 1 wr some time in the near future with Floyd being a distance third option. On bye this week. Panthers defense looks like it's back to form, coming out of the bye, so, you're starting them week in week out. DET-HOU: Texans going into bye, but if you have the space, pick up TE C.J. Fiedorowicz. Lions in a tough match up against the Vikings, but if you are in a pinch at TE, Ebron is a respectable option. SEA-NO: Seahawks offense has struggled as of late, and I am not expecting that to change this week against the no. 8 ranked Bills defense. You're still starting Christine Michael, but if you another option at QB, I'd heavily consider it. Wilson has failed to register double digits in his past two games. If you own Mark Ingram, your no. 1 claim is Tim Hightower. Ingram was benched and Hightower went off for 100 yards. KC-IND: The no. 1 claim for this week needs to be Charcandrick West. Ware is hurt, and Charles is on IR. Juicy match up against the Jaguars this week. Plug and play. Expect a shoot out with the Colts and Packers this week, Dwayne Allen a sneaky plug and play TE if he's healthy. If not, Jack Doyle is a must start himself. With six teams on bye, you can do worse than Phillip Dorsett in at the flex this week, too. NYJ-CLE: Josh Mccown a nice streaming option with six teams on bye, going up against Dallas. Put up 24 against the Jets last week. Barnidge has value again with Mccown in, so, pick him up if you need a TE. Jets going up against the Dolphins, Forte, Marshall, and Enunwa should all get the start for you this week. NE-BUF: Patriots go into bye undefeated with Brady back. Trade for Edelman, big second half coming. Finally got his first score last week. Many more to come. Dion Lewis worth a speculative add with his return looming. Time to trade White for anything you can get, but if you can't, keep him and see what happens. Bills take on the Seahawks, and hopefully Mccoy is back. I'd look toward other options if I had Tyrod Taylor in at QB the last couple weeks. Rumors of Sammy Watkins returning are swirling. If you have the spot, add him. OAK-TB: Derek Carr and Amari Cooper had their break out games, respectively in this one, but going up against division rival Broncos on SNF, don't expect the same. You're still starting them, but temper expectations. If you have Crabtree, consider other options. Disappointing game for Mike Evans, but the targets remain there. Playing on TNF this week, but it's against the last ranked Falcons pass defense. Looks like Rodgers won't be able to turn around and start on a short week, so, if you need someone, Peyton Barber will be a starting RB in week 8, with six teams on bye. SD-DEN: Chargers go from facing Broncos to Titans, Tyrell Williams is a nice start in the contest, and I am going Gates over Henry in the match up. Broncos get the Raiders on SNF. You're starting both wrs and Booker. GB-ATL: Somewhat of a shoot out here, the Falcons take the W in the end. It's a short week, but don't get cute, man. Ryan and Julio need to be starting off potential alone. Rodgers, too. Coming off a 20 plus week, Mohammed Sanu is worth an add, esp in PPR, but how confident do you feel starting him on a Thursday? However, there are six teams on bye. TE Jacob Tamme has been ruled out, so, a nice Thursday night dart is rookie TE Austin Hooper, with six teams on bye. PHI-DAL: This loss is going to sting for Philadelphia, but they'll have to put it behind them quickly, going up against the Giants. At this point, you can't trust Ryan Matthews to get the carries, so, I don't know how you start him. Sproles is a must start in all formats, getting the bulk of running downs work in addition to passing. Dorial Green-Beckham worth a speculative add with eight plus points the last two weeks. Cowboys get the Browns, so, expect a nice offensive output here with Beaseley and Witten the main benefices in addition to Elliott and Bryant. MIN-CHI: The honeymoon phase is over in Minnesota. After losing the one win Bears, one can wonder how far a slide the Vikings will have. Going up against the Lions, the losing streak surely can remain in tact. However, the defense is such that you're still starting them on the upside. If they win, it will be because of this unit, not Sam Bradford. Patterson might be worth a start with six teams on bye. Asiata remains a solid rb2 with Mckinnon out. Bears get a bye, but if Jordan Howard was dropped with the impending return of Jeremy Langford, pick him up and carry him thru the bye. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: CARDINALS, BEARS, BENGALS, TEXANS, PATRIOTS, REDSKINS QB: Josh Mccown: Finally, healthy. Put up 24 against the Jets. Fair matchup against the Cowboys. Six teams on bye. Colin Kaepernick: Coming off bye, going up against the Saints. Plug and play. Ryan Tannehill: Has faired well in favorable matchups: 26 against Patriots, 24 against Browns, and 18 against Bills. Jets are 25th against the pass. RB: Charcandrick West: Jamaal Charles is on IR. Spencer Ware is banged up. Juicy match up against the Jaguars this week. Plug and play. If he plays well, Ware might not have a job to come back to. Tim Hightower: Ingram was benched after fumbling. If you own Ingram, Hightower is your no. 1 claim. Looks like Ingram will get the start, but will have a very short leash. Peyton Barber: Martin out. Rodgers out. Playing a bad run defense on a short week. For one week only, Barber is a must start. Plug and play. Shaun Draughn: Not guranteed Carlos Hyde returns this week. If not, Draughn gets the Saints. Situation to monitor, but could be very rewarding. Derrick Henry: Demarco Murray was banged up at the end of the Jaguars game. We saw both rbs be effective at the same time. Long shot Murray misses time, but the injury scare is a reminder to handcuff at least your no. 1 rb. Robert Kelley: If you have the roster space, Kelley started in place of Matt Jones and turned in a 80 plus day with a TD. Redskins have a bye this week, but Kelley could remain the starter coming out of bye, and is worth a speculative add. Remember, Jones is still hurt at this time. James Starks: Speculative add. Knile Davis didn't work out. Montgomery and Cobb both banged up. When Starks returns, he's going to get the workload. Terron Ward: If Coleman is still out, and you need a RB, plays the Buccaneers on a short week. WR: John Brown: If he was dropped, it's time to pick him up. Him and Palmer are both healthy, and I expect Brown to overtake a banged up Fitzgerald as the no. 1 wr rest of season. Kenny Britt: May have been dropped, because of his bye last week. More valuable in PPR. Double digits in every game except two in that format with an explosion game of 32 week 6 against the Lions. Mohammed Sanu: Julio Jones is banged up. Short week so don't expect Julio to fully recover. With six teams on bye, you can do worse than Sanu, coming off a 80 yard game and a TD. Kendall Wright: Speculative add. 15 plus two of the last three games. He's the no. 1 wr with a red hot QB. Hopefully he can develop into a consistent fantasy option. Kenny Stills: Speculative add. Coming off bye, going up against the Jets. Had 100 and a TD before the bye. Tyreek Hill: Speculative add. 11 plus last two weeks with two TD's. Sammy Watkins: Speculative add. Could be back at some point. High upside, TE: Dennis Pitta: If he was dropped because of bye, pick him up. Eric Ebron: Finally healthy. Rewarded owners who started him last week. Not a good match up, but let's see if Ebron can transition into a focal point of the offense. Clive Walford: Raiders offense exploded last week, but Walford didn't really benefit. Tough math up this week, but Broncos have stuggled against the TE historically. Sneaky play. Jordan Cameron: Hopefully he's cleared to play. Honestly feel he was on his way to his best season under Adam Gase this year before getting hurt week 2. However, if he's cleared, he's going to surprise people. Pick him up a week early than a week too late. Austin Hooper: Jacob Tamme has been ruled out, and Julio is banged up. Hooper worth a dart throw with six teams on bye. C.J. Fiedorowicz: On a bye this week, and banged up, but we saw the potential he possess. 40 and a TD in less than a half of action before being knocked out of the game. DEFENSE Lions Giants Titans KICKERS Ryan Succop Chris Boswell Robbie Gould CHI-GB: The Brian Hoyer run is over. Cutler's back. But, going against the Vikings, I'm only starting Jefferey or Miller anyway. Howard is a flex consideration, based on your roster. Should be a shoot out for Green bay against Atlanta this week. Start all WR's. Knile Davis might garner flex consideration based on how much practice he gets with the 1's this week. A situation to monitor.
NYG-LA: Ugly London game. Let's see if Beckham can recharge while on his bye, and come back for a strong second half. You can cut Rainey and Jennings if you need the space. Hold on to Britt during Rams bye this week. However, I'd look to trade Gurley. He's not a full fledged bust, but he's clearly not the same from last year. NO-KC: Nice away game from Brees. Good to see. Michael Thomas should be rostered after his 10 catch performance. I will warn it is a tough match up with the Seahawks this week, but you're starting Brees, Ingram, Cooks, Fleener, and Snead, depending on roster. Continue to monitor Jamaal Charles if you own him, but at this point, he's not going to return the second round value you got him at. I hope you handcuffed with Spencer Ware. MIN-PHI: Shocker of the week. The Eagles get the win here. But, Vikings get Chicago Monday night so if you need a QB, Bradford is worth a look here. Mckinnon and Asiata worth flex consideration. After three weeks of consistent production, Cordarelle Patterson should be added to your lineups. With six teams on bye, I'm not blaming you on starting him either. Eagles get Dallas Sunday night, welcome the Matthews brothers back in your lineup. Green Beckham worth a speculative add. IND-TEN: As long as Allen is out, Doyle is in your lineup. Chester Rogers disappointed, but with six teams on bye, wait and see if Dorsett and Moncreif are out again this week before you cut him. Titans play Jacksonville on Thursday night. Beside Walker, Murray, and Mariota, I'm not trusting anyone on Tennessee. BUF-MIA: If you need a QB, Tyrod Taylor is another name to consider going up against New England. Mccoy left this game early so this is a situation to monitor. Gillislee needs to owned in all leagues. Miami on a bye, but if you were lucky enough to have Ajayi, this is a perfect time to sell high. WAS-DET: I'm done with Matt Jones. Pick up Rob Kelley. Fair match up against the Bengals, but it is in London. I'm not cutting Jones, but I'm adding Kelley and based on practice reports, might start him over Jones. Vernon Davis is a must start as long as Jordan Reed is out. If Riddick and Washington remain out, Zach Zenner should be owned and started this week against Houston. CLE-CIN: Only trusting Pryor in Cleveland. Crowell worth flex consideration. Dalton took advantage of a nice match up as did the Bengals RB's. Hopefully this can continue with another nice match up against Washington. Well, I'm at least expecting A.J. Green to go off again this week. OAK-JAX: Raiders defense with a nice spot start for those who had the Vikings defense on bye week. Looks like we have the making of a shoot out between two young gun slingers this week between Carr and Winston. Jacksonville going up against the Titans on Thursday night, I'm only starting Allen Robinson, and Bortles if you have no better option. BAL-NYJ: Baltimore going on bye, pick up Smith if you have the roster spot. He'll be back after the bye. If you need a QB, Fitzpatrick is going up against the Browns (have allowed 20 plus to every QB). SD-ATL: Shoot out for Atlanta against the Packers this week. Expecting Ryan and Jones to go off. San Diego against Denver, I like Gates if Henry is out. Tyrell Williams the only WR I'm starting for SD even with six teams on bye. TB-SF: The big Mike Evans game finally came. Hopefully more are to come, especially this week going against Oakland. San Fran is on bye, but beside Hyde, I'm not starting anyone on the 49ers anyway. NE-PIT: Hopefully Big Ben can make it back after the bye. The theory remains the same for New England, as long as Brady is in, I am starting both rbs and tes, and Edelman, because at least two if not three of them will produce solid fantasy games. SEA-ARI: Ugly game. Look for the Seahawks to bounce back against the Saints. The Cardinals get the Panthers coming off a bye which I actually don't like. If you have Palmer, hopefully you added a back up by now. I don't like him this week. HOU-DEN: Going against San Diego, Siemian might be worth a look with six teams on bye. C.J. Anderson a must start moving forward. Same goes for Osweiller going against Detriot (have given up at least 20 to every QB). If you can trade Hopkins, I'd do it. Lamar Miller the only must start. C.J. Fiedorowicz worth a look for this week. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: RAVENS, RAMS, DOLPHINS, GIANTS, STEELERS, 49ERS QB: Tyrod Taylor (Beside week 1, quietly has put up at least 16 each week with 23 plus the last two weeks. Six teams on bye.) Sam Bradford (Expect Vikings to create a lot of turnovers. Let's see if Bradford can convert those short fields into TD's.) Blake Bortles (Gut feeling. Allen Robinson just complained about essentially being a Jaguar. He's mad. I think he goes off. Six teams on bye.) Ryan Fitzpatrick (Opponent has given up 20 plus to all QB's.) Brock Osweiller (Opponent has given up 20 plus to all QB's.) RB: Rob Kelley (Matt Jones fumbled twice and was benched. A situation to monitor, but I'm not starting Jones at all this week. Speculative add.) Chris Thompson (PPR add. With Jones being benched last week, it opens up the door for Thompson to get a couple carries in addition to all the passing downs work he already gets.) Zach Zenner (If Riddick and Washington are still out, it's a prime match up against the Texans for Zenner. Situation to monitor.) Peyton Barber (Martin still isn't back. Barber took advantage last week with 80 plus and a TD. Speculative add.) Knile Davis (If he was dropped, pick him up. Was traded for two days prior to the game last week. Will take time to learn offense. Expect his workload to increase every week until he's ready to be unleashed.) WR: Davante Adams (Breakout game last week, and with the Falcons on the slate, I'm not doubting he can do it again. Seems Montgomery and Adams are the succession plan for Cobb and Nelson and with Montgomery getting RB work, both can be productive in the same week more so than the former two.) Ty Montgomery (If he's still out there, pick him up. He has RB and WR eligibility on ESPN. 10 catches last two games.) Cordarelle Patterson (Three straight weeks of consistent production. Six teams on bye. Going up against the Bears. Plug and play.) TE: Vernon Davis (As long as Reed is out, Davis is a must start. 13 plus last two weeks in PPR.) Jack Doyle (Outscored Allen in most games they both played in. Took off last week with Allen out. 20 plus in PPR. Allen could be back, but I'm starting Doyle either way.) Antonio Gates (If Henry is out, I like Gates against the Broncos who gave up a TD to Henry two weeks ago, and have struggled against the TE historically.) Defense Jets Jaguars Chiefs Kickers Sebastian Janikowski Matt Prater Blair Walsh Quickly recapping the previous week from here on out. Spotlighting players that deserve praise or ridicule. Studs will only be mentioned when they're on bust alert.
DEN-SD: Carolina and Dallas on bye this week. Trevor Siemian going up against Houston might be worth a spot start. Still starting Tyrell Williams and both San Diego TE's moving forward. Chalk this low fantasy point affair to Thursday night. SF-BUF: It's time to pick up Colin Kaepernick and Torrey Smith if you din't stash them last week. Nice match up going up against Tampa Bay. Tyrod Taylor another streaming option for this week. Robert Woods a solid flex play from here on out. PHI-WAS: Bench Wentz against Minnesota. The Matthews brothers are flex considerations, based on your line up, at best this week. Matt Jones is making a case to be a solid rb2 rest of season. Going up against Detriot, you're keeping him in along with Desean Jackson. Vernon Davis a guy to consider if you're stuggling at TE. TEN-CLE: Demarco Murray is a must start. Mariota a nice streaming option rest of season. Juicy scheduled. Only touching Pryor and Crowell in Cleveland. BAL-NYG: You can cut Dixon if you need the spot. Kamar Aiken a flex play as long as Steve Smith is out. Okay match up against the Rams this week, I'd consider Rainey as a ppr flex. Jennings a standard flex. CAR-NO: Away game this week for the Saints. I'm benching Michael Thomas and Willie Snead (if you can). Pick up Fleener if he was cut. He should be okay rest of season. JAX-CHI: If you can't get one of the qb's mentioned earlier, Bortles is an okay start against Oakland. I'm staying away from the Jacksonville backfield and pass catchers not named Allen Robinson. Hoyer's 2 td per game streak ended, but he still had 300 plus yards. Him and Cameron Meredith should be rostered, but they're playing Green Bay on Thursday night. Do you feel lucky? LA-DET: I'm not buying it from Case Keenum. Playing in London this week, don't bother. Britt a solid flex play. Lance Kendricks if you need a TE. I'm picking up Zach Zenner and waiting and seeing if Theo Riddick is out again this week. Nice match up going up against the Redskins. I'd start Tate this week too. MIA-PIT: Big Ben is out, don't waste your time with Landry Jones. You're still starting Bell and Brown. With every back up qb, they tend to already have chemistry with the teams second even third wr from practicing with them all the time. So, either Coates, Wheaton, or Rodgers will turn into a ppr flex. Your guess is as good as mine. Jay Ajayi should be in your flex spot after last weeks performance. I will warn, he is playing the Bills. CIN-NE: James White going off is why I have advocated every Patriot (both rbs, te and Edelman) in your line up since Brady has been back. Any one, or two, have the chance to go off any week. I'll take the downsize when the upside is so rewarding. I'm feeling a Edelman 3 td game this week. Keep him in. A.J. Green's going off against the Browns this week. I'd start Dalton if I needed a qb. KC-OAK: Only starting the Chiefs rbs with confidence. You're at your own discretion when starting Maclin and Kelce. For Oakland, it's a nice match up against Jacksonville. And, if Murray is still out, Jalen Richard is a ppr flex with upside. ATL-SEA: The rough part of the schedule is over for the Falcons. Put Coleman and Rodgers back in the lineup this week going against the Chargers. Tyler Lockett should be rostered but not started this week against the Cardinals. DAL-GB: Elite Aaron Rodgers is over :(. I like rb's in Thursday night. That's why I'm telling you start Knile Davis, the starting rb for the packers, Thursday on a short week. He's fresh as hell and the opposing defense will be tired. It's worth the gamble. Ty Montgomery also worth an add, but start him at your discretion. IND-HOU: Jack Doyle a plug and play pick up this week at TE. Gut feeling he scores again. Lamar Miller has got himself out of the bust house. But, going up against Denver, don't expect what you got last week again. Only Houston player I'm thinking of starting. NYJ-ARI: Both qb's should not be starting and I wouldn't have a problem seeing them on the waiver wire. Going up against Baltimore, how confident do you feel starting Bilal Powell or Matt Forte? Fitzgerald is the only wr i'm starting against the Seahawks this week. Pick up John Brown if he's out there. I feel a second half surge coming. WAIVER WIRE TEAMS ON BYE: PANTHERS, COWBOYS QB: Brian Hoyer (He will be on this list until he is a hundred percent owned. 300 plus yards in every game. No tds this past week, but going up against a banged up Packers defense on a short week, you can do worse.) Colin Kaepernick (Nice match up against the Bucs. He's running again, too. Had 20 last week.) Tony Romo (Speculative add. Should be back shortly after the bye.) RB: Knile Davis (Just traded. Lacy is out the next couple weeks. Even if it was just for this week, it's a nice match up against the Bears on a short week. Davis is fresh from not playing all season. The defense he is going against is on a short week.) Jay Ajayi (Coming off 200 yard rushing game, he has to be added. But, only a flex consideration going against the Bills this week.) Jacquizz Rodgers (If Martin is still out, it's a fair match up against the 49ers. Honestly, didn't expect Martin to be out this long. Would've had Rodgers in the column last week.) Zach Zenner (If Riddick is out again, it's a nice match up against the Redskins.) Matt Asiata (May have been dropped because of the bye last week. Tricky backfield, but he should be owned.) Rob Kelley (Speculative add. Coach Gruden said he'd get more work and he did. As of right now, Matt Jones is on a roll, but it could change just like that.) Dion Lewis (Speculative add. If you have the roster spot.) WR: Torrey Smith (Kaepernick has returned him to fantasy relevance. Nice match up against the Bucs this week, too.) Kamar Aiken (As long as Steve Smith is out, Aiken is a wr3.) Ty Montgomery (Davante Adams is banged up. Also with the rbs banged up, Montgomery could get some carries. He's playing on Thursday. Do you feel lucky?) Robert Woods (He's the no. 1 with Watkins out. He's been better than you think. Like him better in ppr.) Kenny Britt (He's been better than you think. Double digits every week except one in ppr. In London, but a fair match up against the Giants.) Anquan Boldin (Flex consideration if Ebron is out again.) Cordarelle Patterson (Speculative add. Had been unusually involved the two weeks before the bye. I'd pick him up and see if it continues.) Eli Rogers or Marques Wheaton (When a back up QB becomes the starter, they have a rapoort already with the teams no. 2 or no. 3 wr in the offense from practicing together so much. Problem is it can be Rogers or Wheaton or even Coates, who is already owned probably. Add either if you the roster spot.) TE: Vernon Davis (As long as Reed is out, Davis is a top 10 te. He fits the role and can fill it as we saw this past week.) C.J. Fiedorowicz (Two td's the last three weeks. Going up against Broncos who struggle against the te. Sneaky play.) Jack Doyle (He's back to outscoring Dwayne Allen again. Fair match up against the Titans.) Cameron Brate (Dropped because of bye or not even owned. Brate is the no. 2 pass catcher behind Evans. Started to pick up steam before bye last week. Let's see if he can pick it back up against the 49ers.) Defense: Falcons, Raiders, Rams Kicker: Brandon Mcmanus, Dan Carpenter, Sebastian Janikowski We recap week 5 and subtlety preview week 6. Obvious starts get little mention. They're obvious.
ARI-SF: With Palmer out, Fitzgerald was the beneficiary of two td passes from backup QB Drew Stanton. Monitor Palmers status but either way you're starting Fitzgerald. Only Minnesota and Tampa Bay on bye so you don't have to start John Brown. Flex consideration. At this point, Floyd isn't star-table in any format. Kaepernick is the man in San Fran now. Worth a add in 14 team or 2 qb leagues. Let's see what Chip Kelly can do. NE-CLE: Brady is back! You're starting all Patriots for the foreseeable future: Blount, White, Edelman (Hogan's hurt), Gronk, and Bennett. Not touching anyone from Cleveland not named Pryor going up against the Titans. PHI-DET: Carson Wents throws his first interception, the Eagles lose their first game. etc. In fantasy news, Ryan Matthews is back to being the rb2 you expected. Wentz is a match up based starter. Jordan Matthews and Zach Ertz are the only passing options you want to start. Nice match up against the Redskins this week. The Lions have a tougher task at hand going up against the Rams, but you're starting Stafford unless you can pick up Hoyer. Theo Riddick is the only back I'm starting and Marvin Jones the only pass catcher. CHI-IND: Brian Hoyer is legit! How many times do I have to say it? 1,000 passing and 6 tds in his last three. Cutler's coming back to the bench. Jordan Howard balling too, providing a solid running game to open things up for Hoyer. Cameron Meridith is the Bears WR I want. Pick him up. The difference between him and Royal is Meridith's raw ability and upside. He can beat corners. At this point, Royal can not. TEN-MIA: The Dolphins gave up a td to the no. 1 wr on the opposing team again. Andre Johnson was able to score and so was Rishard Matthews in a revenge game. All of a sudden, the Titans look like a NFL team and they should keep the winning up going up against the Browns. Because of the nature of the position, Jay Ajayi may get some rb2/flex consideration, but besides him and Landry, I'm not starting anyone on Miami. WAS-BAL: Disappointing fantasy game. I like for both teams to bounce back this week in their respective match ups. Start Flacco, West, and Steve Smith going up against the Giants. Start Cousins, Jackson, and Reed going up against the Eagles. Matt Jones normally a rb2 gets knocked down to flex consideration with the news that Robert Kelly has earned himself a few more carries per week. A situation to monitor and Kelly is worth a speculative add. HOU-MIN: Minnesota came, saw, and conquered. Vikings are on bye this week, but, if you can, hold on to that defense and roster two this week if you can. If you have to drop them, wait until Sunday morning so no one else can pick them up. For Houston, the schedule gets easier, but I'm ready to label Lamar Miller a bust. Two more weeks and I'm doing the same for Deandre Hopkins. NYJ-PIT: Remember when Fitzpatrick was in a hold out because he thought he was worth more money? LOL At this point, he's lucky Geno hasn't taken his job. Besides Marshall, everyone in New York is fading. Bilal Powell worth a speculative add as Forte looks done. Geno smith too in a two qb league. It's almost his time. Big Ben is going to challenge for the no. 1 qb in fantasy this year. I called it back in March, but a Bryant suspension stirred me away. Now, with Bell back, Antonio Brown and a nice supporting cast in Jesse James and Sammie Coates, this is Big Ben's year. ATL-DEN: Shocker of the week with the Falcons beating the Broncos. Matt Ryan was decent, not good, but didn't hurt you. And, going up against that defense, that's all you wanted. Matt Ryan is legit. Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman are too. You can start both in ppr if you wanted. Only pass catcher worth starting is Julio though. For Denver, you've got to hope Siemian is back this week. Lynch just isn't ready right now. Broncos play the Chargers on a short week so the qb situation will be something to monitor. Unfortunately, you're playing Sanders and Thomas either way. CIN-DAL: Dallas steam roll the Bengals. Elliott is legit. Not touching him next year though (see Gurley this year). Brice Butler scored and you can call him the no. 1 wr as long as Bryant is out. He's worth an add and start esp in ppr. For Bengals, it was just a bad game. I'm looking for A.J. Green to bounce back going up against the Patriots. Potential shoot out. BUF-LA: Who knew firing Greg Roman would save Rex Ryan's job (so far)? Three game winning streak since the move was made, but it's been mostly the defense. I still don't Taylor without Watkins. In a 2 qb or 14 team plus league okay, but 12 teams or less, there's better options. In his defense, he has been pretty solid, not great, but pretty solid. For the Rams, every time I'm ready to call Gurley a bust he delivers. 70 plus rushing yards and a td on the day. He's not that good in ppr, but solid in standard. Start Britt in the flex if desperate. SD-OAK: Chargers are cursed, man. It's going to cost Mike Mccoy his job too. Tyrell Williams is the no. 1 right now for the Chargers then Benjamin then Inman as far as wrs. I can see Hunter Henry and Anotnio Gates both being co-no. 2 targets in the passing game though ahead of Benjamin and Inman. The Raiders are legit and you can start Carr, Cooper, and Crabtree week in and week out. Jalen Richard is worth a flex consideration in ppr leagues. NYG-GB: Green Bay shut the Giants down. Look for the Giants to bounce back this week against the Ravens. Expect Green Bay to keep the assault on against the Cowboys. TB-CAR: No Cam Newton. A big problem. Jamesis Winston seems to be maturing as a qb in his second season and along with Mike Evans, they're going to make a lot of fantasy owners proud. Forward thinking: Winston plays the Saints twice in the fantasy playoffs: (weeks 14 and 16). Waiver Wire Teams on bye: Buccaneers, Vikings QB: Brian Hoyer (This man will be on this column until he is a hundred percent owned. 1,000 passing yards, 6 tds in his last three games and going up against the Jaguars this week I don't see any signs of slowing down.) Marcus Mariota (Going up against the Browns. Browns have given up at least 20 to each opposing qb so far this season.) Colin Kaepernick (Now the starter in a Chip Kelly offense. Worth an add in 2 qb and 14 team plus leagues.) Tony Romo (Should be back in a couple weeks. Speculative add.) RB: Cameron Artis-Payne (80 plus and 2 tds against the Bucs. Next up? Saints. Plug and play.) Bobby Rainey (More valuable in ppr, but he has taken over the Shane Vereen role in the Giants offense. Double digits last two weeks.) Jalen Richard (Another ppr guy. Double digits last week. I expect more of the same going up against the Chiefs. Murray may be back so a situation to monitor.) Dion Lewis (Look at the bump White got last week with Brady back. Expect the same with Lewis. He'll be back in a few weeks. Speculative add.) Justin Forsett (Signed to the Lions. Give him a couple weeks to get adjusted. Could challenge Washington for the no. 2 back. Speculative add.) Matt Asiata (On bye, but after this week, last week showed the Vikings backfield will be a committee. It's going to be frustrating week to week, but worth a speculative add.) WR: Sammie Coates (Big Ben is on going to challenge for the no. 1 qb in fantasy this year. Brown and Bell will get theirs. Coates, along with James, have gone from feature pieces to key contributions. Must add.) Cameron Meridith (I know. One week later and we're in the same situation. Who's Hoyer's favorite target? Forgive the Royal hype last week. Meredith is the guy you want. More athletic, upside, and skill. Going up against the Jaguars this week. Plug and play.) Chris Hogan (Brady's back. Hogan is a favorite target of his. Banged up right now, but when healthy, he's a fringe wr2.) Tyrell Williams (If he was dropped, pick him up. He's the no. 1 wr in San Diego moving forward.) Donte Moncrief (Will be back in a few more weeks. If you have the space, worth a speculative add.) Andre Johnson (Scored last week. Going up against the Browns, let's see if he can do it again.) TE: Jesse James (Big Ben is challenging for the no.1 qb in fantasy this year. Brown and Bell will get theirs. James, along with Coates, have gone from feature pieces to key contributions. Must add.) Dwayne Allen (Jack Doyle is droppable. Allen has finally showed up. Pick him up if he was dropped.) Antonio Gates (Henry and Gates can both be productive in this offense. Worth a speculative add.) Sorry there were no week 4 rankings. College got the best of me in week 4, but managed to go 4-1 in my leagues. How'd you do?
MIA-CIN: All hail A.J. Green! With all the bye weeks, Bernard and Hill are starting for you this week. Tannehill a bye week replacement this week against Tennessee. With the byes, and increasing workload, Ajayi may be worth a dart throw this week, too. Kenny Stills worth a look esp ppr. IND-JAX: Blake Bortles first good not playing from behind game. For the Colts, I'm firing up Dorsett this week again. Both TE's played bad here. I'm still starting Doyle esp with byes. TEN-HOU: You're still starting Miller and Hopkins for Houston, but going up against the Vikings, don't expect much. You might be stuck playing Fuller because of byes based on depth. For the Titans, Demarco Murray continues to make me proud of my top 15 RB ranking of him in the preseason. He took advantage of Watt being out and should take advantage of a middle of the pact Miami defense. Dolphins have given up a 100 yards or TD to the opposing teams no. 1 wr each week so far, but unfortunately it's hard to pinpoint the no. 1 on Tennessee. I'm leaning Rishard Matthews and it doesn't hurt this game is against his former team. CLE-WAS: The RG3 Bowl. Washington players, for the most part, came thru for you if you started them. Cousins and Matt Jones. No Washington WR delivered and that could be the side effect of a Jordan Reed two td game. With the byes, you're still starting them this week against BAL, and while I'm tempering expectation for Matt Jones, I'd still ride the, coming off a 100 yard plus rushing game. Tyrelle Pryor and Isiaih Crowell the only Browns I'm starting against the Patriots. SEA-NYJ: It's not looking good for the Jets, man. After a nice statistical start the first three weeks, the past two have been less than desirable. You're starting Marshall, Decker, and even Forte. But, even with bye weeks, I don't see Fitzpatrick supporting three fantasy wrs. He should do just enough to sustain Marshall and Decker. I'm sitting Enunwa. With that said, Decker is nursing an injury and should he miss time, Enunwa is a start. Enunwa is a must add, but a situation to monitor. Seahwaks are on bye which should bold well for Wilson. BUF-NE: The patriots had to lose one without Brady. Bradys back this week, and I'm firing up all my Patriots: Brady, Blount, White, Edelman, Gronk, Bennett. If I'm wrong, I'm wrong, but I'm not having these guys going off on my bench. One more good game, and i'm going to have to say stop benching Tyrod Taylor, but without Watkins, going up against the Rams, I'm not starting this guy with confidence. Mccoy is safe, but that's all I'm touching on the Bills. Start Woods on your own accord with the bye weeks esp in ppr, but I'm not. CAR-ATL: I'm no longer scared of the Panthers defense. This is good if you have Winston this week. Falcons go against the Broncos this week which is a defense I am scared of, but unless you can pick up Brian Hoyer, you're starting Ryan esp coming off 500 yards. Cam Newton left this game early with an concussion. If you can't pick up Hoyer, Wentz (coming off bye), or Flacco, just pick up Derek Anderson and wait and see if Newton plays on MNF. The match up is so nice against the Bucs, it's worth the gamble. OAK-BAL: Forsett is done in Baltimore. Pick up Dixon if he's available who should be ready to go in the next few weeks, but for this week, pick up West and start him going against Washington. If you need a QB, Flacco is a guy to look at. The resurgence of Steve Smith is very real and alive. He's finally healthy, four weeks in, and the next 12, and final, weeks for Steve Smith could be very special for fantasy owners. I'm sticking by Pitta because any week, he's a candidate for the two td game playing with his bff Flacco. I'm starting Derek Carr, Crabtree, and still Cooper, but if you can, pick up and stash Deandre Washington. Those who hyped up Murray preseason might've been wrong on that one. Disclosure: I had him as the no. 16 rb. DET-CHI: Brian Hoyer is a thing, and he might be a thing rest of season, even when Cutler comes back. Bears get there first win. Hoyer had 300 and 2 tds. Howard had a 100 yard plus rushing game. Zach Miller now has three tds in the last two games. Eddie Royal even had a 100 yard plus game and a td. I like Royal moving forward as I've mentioned previously those connections the back up QB's tend to have with those no. 2 or no. 3 wrs when they enter the game. Jefferey had just 46 yards. DEN-TB: Siemian left the game. A situation to monitor, but if he can't go, Lynch might be worth a start, with all the byes, against Atlanta. Gut call: Devontae Booker has a good game this week. With all the byes and injuries, I'd at least pick up Booker. Atlanta has struggled against RB since last year esp the pass catching back. Not sure if Booker is exactly that, but he's the no. 2. Bad match up for the Bucs, but this week against the Panthers, I'm going right back to the well with Winston, Evans, and Brate. Jacquizz Rodgers worth a add, and possible start, if Martin isn't back against Carolina. LA-ARI: Palmer is in concussion protocol and doesn't look like he'll play against the 49ers on Thursday. If I can, I'm staying away from the Arizona WRs, but if I have to, I'm starting them in this order: Brown, Floyd, Fitz. The Thursday night game should be the David Johnson show. The Rams are a surprising 3-1 team even with Gurley struggling. I'm so close to calling Gurley a bust. Trade him if you can. NO-SD- Another disappointing week for Cooks. Let's see if he can get his mind right during the bye. For San Diego, Henry is a must start as long as Gates is out. I'm starting Rivers against Oakland. Gordon too. The San Diego Wrs are in this order: Williams, Benjamin, Inman. DAL-SF: Tough match up for the Cowboys against the Bengals, but with byes, you might have to pick up and start Prescott. Elliott is a must start. Dal Wrs are in this order: Butler, Beaseley, Williams. For San Fran, I'm avoiding everyone except Carlos Hyde on Thursday night. KC-PIT: Chiefs let me down this week. Charles returned but the game was so out of hand, he didn't make an impact. With Bell back for Pittsburgh, you're starting the usual guys now. Big Ben, Bell, Brown. NYG-MIN: Odell Beckham bust season is among us. If you have this guy, trade him now while he has any value left. If Jennings can't go, Darkwa a nice start against Green Bay. Rainey a nice start in ppr this week regardless of Jennings status. The Vikings Defense and Kyle Rudolph are the only must starts on the team. Going up against a Wyatt-less Texans D, and the byes, you might still be starting Diggs. But, Cordarelle Patterson worth a speculative add. If this week was any indication this guy has figured things out, I want in to reap the rewards. You're starting Mckinnon over Asiata in this match up. WAIVER WIRE Bye weeks: Jaguars, Chiefs, Saints, Seahawks QB: (I'm assuming Carson Wentz is not available if not, he's my no. 1 pick up.) Brian Hoyer (This man is legit for fantasy. Nice stat here: At least 300 yards and two tds in the past two games, respectively. He's bringing Eddie Royal with him. Colts, Jaguars, Packers are his next three then a bye. If he plays well, he might win the job. Coach Fox has not committed to Cutler when he comes back from injury.) Joe Flacco (Simple. At home, a must start. On the road, depends on the match up. 25 last week against the Raiders. 20 in week 2 on the road against the Browns. A okay 16 point game against the Bills week 1. The only real stinker was week 3 against the Jaguars on the road when he had 11 points. This week he's at home again, nice match up against the Redskins, Steve Smith is emerging.) Ryan Tannehill (The Tannehill breakout season is on the back burner, but that doesn't mean he still can't take advantage of prime match ups. Honestly, has only had less than 15 points last week and week 1 against the Bengals and Seahawks, respectively. At least 24 points (6 point passing td) in weeks 2 and 3 against the Patriots and Browns. With Wilson, Brees, and Bortles on bye, worth a shot against Tennessee.) Derek Anderson (For the Cam Newton owner. The match up is so nice against Tampa Bay on MNF. Unless you can pick up Hoyer, I'd grab Anderson and wait and see if Newton plays Monday night.) Paxton Lynch (If Siemian is out, it's a great match up against Atlanta this week.) RB: (I'm assuming Terrance West is not available if not, he's my no. 1 pick up) Bobby Rainey (He's going to take over the Vereen role for the Giants. A much better pick up in ppr.) Paul Perkins (Speculative add. We saw his potential on display with the 67 yard reception this week.) Kenneth Dixon (Speculative add. I'm riding West the next couple weeks, but when Dixon returns, he should take over the starting spot.) Wendell Smallwood (Speculative add. Got the most work in the last game before the buy. If you're in a pinch, I'd consider starting Smallwood this week, but, in theory, you want to wait and see what happens this week against the Lions.) Orleans Darkwa (Solid rb2 if Jennings is out.) Jay Ajayi (Dolphins looking to get away from the four handed monster and have a feature guy. Ajayi had the most last week.) James White (If he was dropped, pick him up esp for this week with Brady being back, even in ppr. It'll be a closing window though with the return of Dion Lewis coming.) Jacquizz Rodgers (If Martin is out again, I'm considering starting him against the Panthers.) Devontae Booker (Gut call. Falcons are horrible against the Falcons.) WR: (I'm assuming Steve Smith is not available if not, he's my no. 1 pick up.) Eddie Royal (The Brian Hoyer show does not go on without this guy. 100 plus and a td last week.) Rishard Matthews (Revenge game. Titans have also given up at least a 100 or a td to the opposing teams no. 1 wr. Brice Butler (The no. 1 in Dallas now as long as Bryant is out. Beaseley is who I like second. Cut bait with Terrance Williams.) Dontrelle Inman (Benjamin's having a fumbling problem. That might keep him off the field.) Kenny Stills (Always been the guy I wanted in Miami beside Landry. Showed his explosiveness last week. Let's see if he can capitalize on a good match up against Tennessee.) Robert Woods ( The no. 1 now with Watkins being out.) Quincy Enunwa (If Decker is done, he should've been the no. 1 wr pick up, but at this time, we don't know.) TE: (I'm assuming Hunter Henry is not avaliable if not, he's my no. 1 pick up.) Cameron Brate: Took advantage of a juicy match up against the Broncos (as far as against TE's). I'm no longer afraid of the Panthers Defense and feel comfortable starting Winston, Evans, and this guy.) Zach Miler: Has a nice rapport with Brian Hoyer. 3 tds in the last two games.) Jack Doyle (Was just a bad game last week. Still like him over Dwayne Allen.) Defense streamers Steelers (Think Fitz is done throwing picks? Nah.) Packers (Historically play better at home.) Bills (Have played okay so far.) Kicker streamers Caleb Sturgis Chris Boswell Josh Brown Sea Bass (OAK) Mason Crosby |
AuthorJoshua Kellem Archives
June 2017
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