NFL Fantasy Soccer Week 1 lineup choices: Begins, Sits, Sleepers, Busts to know for each recreation

Fantasy Soccer is all concerning the matchups. Regardless that you drafted your crew with sure hopes and intentions, your weekly lineup choices should not be decided by the order you picked your gamers in. You could examine who your gamers play and ensure you’ve obtained the precise guys in — and the flawed guys out.

It is too early to be completely positive on which matchups might be simple and which of them might be robust, however we will take some educated guesses based mostly on wholesome personnel, defensive schemes, monitor information and key particulars of offenses. The issues we all know can assist us reduce the influence of the issues we do not know. This could result in higher choices being made.

We’ll undergo each recreation and spotlight the gamers who aren’t apparent begins and sits (since you do not have to be informed to start out Justin Jefferson). It is best to really feel extra snug beginning or sitting gamers based mostly on the knowledge given, and feeling snug along with your Fantasy lineup earlier than the video games begin is the very best feeling on this planet.

You’ll discover my full notes on each participant from each recreation that will qualify as a troublesome begin/sit over at SportsLine shortly. For now, yow will discover Heath Cummings full set of Week 1 Fantasy soccer projections for each place obtainable on SportsLine. Discover out which of my favourite performs are projected to attain larger than consensus rankings and which do not reside as much as their draft hype, at the least in Week 1. Projected stats for all beginning positions can be found, so make sure you take a look at the total set of projections at SportsLine. 

All strains from Caesars Sportsbook.

CHIEFS: Will not have prime D-tackle Chris Jones, who is continuous his holdout. With out him, Kansas Metropolis’s prime move rushers are George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, neither of whom had a move rush win-rate north of 10.5% in 2022 regardless of a mixed 772 move rush snaps. 

GOFF: Has at all times struggled when beneath strain however was excellent final 12 months when not pressured — 73.4% completion charge, 8.3 yards per try with a shorter Common Depth of Goal (ADOT) of 6.7 yards versus when he was pressured. His offensive line stays one of many higher entrance fives within the league. 

LIONS: Added two explosive rookies: working again Jahmyr Gibbs (a must-start) and tight finish Sam LaPorta (learn beneath). Gibbs was excellent in joint practices in opposition to the Giants earlier this summer season and will draw distinctive matchups in opposition to the Chiefs’ linebackers and safeties and should even dictate zone protection for almost all of the sport. 

FOR WHAT IT’S WORTH: Goff completed 2022 with 21-plus Fantasy factors in 5 of his remaining 7 video games together with 4 with 25 or extra. 

Goff has low-end QB1 enchantment given the probability of Detroit being pressured to attain a bunch to maintain up with the Chiefs offense and his new weapons in an offense he is already had success in. Having top-notch safety in opposition to a suspect move rush is a large issue. I might begin him over Anthony Richardson, Kirk Cousins and Aaron Rodgers. 

CHIEFS: Will not have prime D-tackle Chris Jones, who is continuous his holdout. Large-bodied defenders Derrick Nnadi and Tershawn Wharton graded out poorly versus the run in response to Professional Soccer Focus, which means extra of an emphasis on stopping Montgomery will fall on linebackers Willie Homosexual, Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquil. Of the three, solely Bolton graded out nicely versus the run. 

CHIEFS: Noticed the fourth-fewest RB rushes per recreation final 12 months (18.9), probably a by-product of holding so many leads. However of the groups that noticed beneath 20.0 RB rushes per recreation, the Chiefs have been the one one to permit over 4.0 yards per carry (4.3) with all six touchdowns allowed coming from 5 yards or nearer. 

LIONS: Ranked fifth in RB rush makes an attempt per recreation (25.1) in 2022 and theoretically upgraded on the place with Montgomery, who will change ineffective-except-at-the-goal-line energy again Jamaal Williams. Lions RBs totaled at the least 20 carries in all however two video games final season. Additionally they averaged 2.3 rushes per recreation from 5 yards or nearer to the aim line, a fertile area reserved, presumably, for his or her huge again. 

Gibbs is an thrilling addition to the Lions offense, and he is a greater PPR starter than Montgomery for positive, however Montgomery’s possibilities for 15 touches and a landing preserve him above the RB2 fold. I might begin him over Najee Harris, Isiah Pacheco, any Eagles RB, any Jets RB and Jamaal Williams. 

PACHECO: Set for his first style of reside motion after lacking nearly all of coaching camp and the preseason recovering from a torn labrum in his shoulder. 

LAST YEAR: Regardless of main the Chiefs in speeding, Pacheco by no means performed 50% of the snaps in any regular-season recreation. He had one playoff recreation with 57% of the snaps (versus Cincinnati); he performed 47% of the snaps within the Tremendous Bowl. 

LAST 12 GAMES: Notched at the least 80 complete yards 9 occasions, together with 2 of three playoff video games. 

THIS YEAR: There isn’t any telling how a lot he’ll play in his first matchup however he ought to play a good quantity — he was not listed on the crew’s harm report. 

LIONS: Rated poorly in yards per carry allowed over the season final 12 months (4.7), in order that they drafted center linebacker Jack Campbell to assist assist the run. He will not play each down however he’ll combine in. The defensive position is the bigger concern as a number of unknown gamers who had suspect PFF grades will see taking part in time. 

CHIEFS: Referred to as RB rushes 19.7 occasions per recreation in 2022, tied for seventh-fewest. Not having Travis Kelce obtainable may pump that quantity up. 

Pacheco is dangerous not solely by way of his manufacturing however by way of his workload. It is higher to take a wait-and-see strategy with him should you can; if he lights up the Lions at the least you will know what to do with him in Weeks 2 and three in opposition to the Jaguars and Bears. 

PITTS: Performed a complete of eight preseason snaps, restricted in each his time with the starters and in apply for a lot of August as he rehabs from offseason knee surgical procedure. Gave the impression to be lumbering each in a joint apply in opposition to the Dolphins and in his eight preseason snaps in opposition to the Bengals. 

PANTHERS: New defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero referred to as zone protection for the Broncos over 77% of the time final season, suggesting that he’ll proceed to name zone protection steadily with Carolina. 

PITTS: Has struggled in his profession in opposition to the Panthers, scoring over 12 PPR factors as soon as in 4 video games. That huge recreation included a landing and got here with out terrific linebacker/security cowl man Jeremy Chinn on the sphere. Chinn ought to play and figures to cowl Pitts a wholesome quantity. 

PITTS: Struggled versus zone protection final season, catching simply 44/7% of his targets in opposition to the scheme, albeit for 14.6 yards per catch. He noticed far more targets in opposition to zone (47) than man (9). 

Pitts was drafted to be a starter, and needs to be began, however do not anticipate an enormous recreation. His well being may be probably the most prohibitive issue, if not the Falcons discovering themselves profitable within the run recreation. Nonetheless a top-10 tight finish this week, however maybe not a top-5. 

FLOWERS: Shined in a single preseason recreation (14 snaps) however was additionally a spotlight reel in coaching camp, and was wonderful final 12 months at Boston Faculty. 

RAVENS: Nobody’s positive which WR will line up the place, and it is probably all three receivers will combine and match, however Flowers may edge out Odell Beckham and Rashod Bateman for these slot snaps. Flowers did not do a lot of it this preseason (21.4% of his snaps within the slot), nor did he concentrate on it at Boston Faculty (35% in 2022), however Odell Beckham and Rashod Bateman lined up within the slot lower than 20% of the time of their previous 4 and two seasons, respectively. 

TEXANS: Demeco Ryans’ 49ers protection performed the fourth-highest zone snaps in 2022. Ryans figures to observe swimsuit with the Texans for a lot of this season, and most actually will play heavy zone protection in opposition to Baltimore to not solely preserve the receivers from beating them deep but additionally to maintain eyes on Lamar Jackson for these performs he takes off and runs on. 

TEXANS: Have some attention-grabbing cornerbacks — second-year bounce-back expertise Derek Stingley and veteran Steven Nelson determine to line up outdoors probably the most with Tavierre Thomas within the slot. Thomas was a second-half contributor for the Texans in 2022 and out-played veteran Desmond King for the nickelback job. These gamers might not be large components individually since they’re going to play quite a lot of zone protection, however Stingley’s pace and energy from the left cornerback spot might be the hardest for Beckham and Bateman — two guys getting back from harm — to cope with. 

Flowers strikes me because the sort of participant who may catch two passes however complete 70 yards and a landing on them. However so too would possibly Beckham or Bateman, which makes all three receivers dangerous from week to week. At the very least within the case of Flowers he’ll have relative anonymity on his facet, plus he would possibly draw the better matchups so long as he stays away from Stingley (IF Stingley stays stationary at left cornerback). Flowers is a danger as a flex, however one with large upside with out the age or harm issues different Ravens wideouts have. 

NJOKU: Fairly clearly a big a part of the Browns offense final 12 months, Njoku is predicted to reprise his function as a short-area goal who might be leaned on given his dimension and athleticism. 

LAST SEASON: In a single recreation, Njoku drew 9 targets and posted a 7-59-1 stat line due to a slew of short-range targets from Deshaun Watson together with a really intelligent red-zone play-call that obtained the whole Bengals protection off-balance. 

HISTORY: Njoku has scored in three of his previous 4 video games in opposition to the Bengals. 

BENGALS: Anticipated to play quite a lot of zone protection this week. Have been wonderful protecting tight ends final 12 months (about league common in Fantasy factors allowed) and did little this offseason to enhance how they cowl them. Safeties Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell each left; Nick Scott and Dax Hill are anticipated to interchange them with Hill extra prone to see protection of Njoku together with linebackers Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt. 

NJOKU: Was simpler in opposition to zone protection (12.0 yards per catch) than man protection (9.6). 

The matchup is not any tougher this 12 months for “The Chief” and the Bengals offense figures to be just a little extra pass-friendly than it has ever been. Njoku has a shot at ending as a top-five TE this week. I might begin him over Pat Freiermuth, Evan Engram and Kyle Pitts.

ROBINSON: Started the preseason because the Commanders’ first RB up, although the preseason snap share has Gibson with a 4% benefit. When the Commanders moved contained in the purple zone it was a fair 50-50 cut up, although Gibson performed two third downs whereas Robinson performed none. 

ROLES: Initiatives as extra of a bodily again who can catch if a move play is dialed up, whereas Gibson is extra of an air again who can pound it between the tackles if requested. Final 12 months Gibson performed simply 23 extra snaps than Robinson within the 11 video games they have been each lively for, however Robinson had a slight edge on snaps contained in the three-yard line whereas Gibson had a big edge (51 extra snaps) on third downs. 

PRESEASON: It is a tiny pattern dimension, however Robinson seemed like the higher rusher this summer season, not solely seeing a better alternative share (46.4% to 36.7%) however having higher effectivity general (4.6 yards per carry over eight rushes in comparison with 3.7 over six rushes for Gibson). 

CARDINALS: That is actually the place you must get enthusiastic about beginning Robinson: Arizona’s defensive position struggled to grade nicely with Professional Soccer Focus up to now, their linebackers are at finest respectable and their safeties are the energy, although they already traded away one high quality defender in Isaiah Simmons. Even in opposition to Washington’s offense, the Cardinals determine to have their palms full. 

When you begin Robinson, you are hoping he finds the top zone and leads the Commanders in carries in what seems to be a straightforward matchup in opposition to an already-depleted Cardinals protection. It solely helps that Arizona’s offense is sort of as depleted to start out the 12 months, probably giving Washington a pleasant edge in time of possession. Whereas Gibson is a good PPR flex, I like Robinson’s scoring upside to hold him to a greater Week 1 than David Montgomery and Najee Harris. 

LAST YEAR: Engram obtained loads of targets (14 in two video games) however was used totally on brief throws together with designed screens of their first matchup. Lawrence did miss Engram on a possible landing when the tight finish broke free from protection early within the first matchup however there weren’t quite a lot of possibilities for an enormous rating in any other case, simply quite a lot of quantity. 

JAGUARS: New addition Calvin Ridley figures to attract probably the most targets, which suggests Engram might be a week-to-week, matchup-dependent choice. Fortunately, he has the matchup this week. 

COLTS: Have questions all around the protection however actually in terms of protecting athletic tight ends. Linebackers Zaire Franklin and Shaquille Leonard (if he performs) have allowed excessive catch charges over their careers, and new safeties Rodney Thomas and particularly Julian Blackmon have as nicely. 

LAST YEAR: Indy used quite a lot of cornerbacks on Engram, which wound up working in opposition to them as Engram drew high quality protection away from Christian Kirk, who scored 3 times in two video games. Indy has refreshed its outdoors cornerbacks this offseason; it could induce some matchups for the Jaguars to go after with all their pass-catchers, not simply Engram. 

When you begin Engram, you are banking on the Jaguars throwing a superb quantity even in a recreation the place they might blow out their opponent. That would simply be the M.O. of Jacksonville’s offense this 12 months. Use him whilst you can as a result of matchups will come down the pike the place Engram might be a non-factor. I might begin Engram this week over Pat Freiermuth, Juwan Johnson and any rookie TE. 

LAST YEAR: Engram obtained loads of targets (14 in two video games) however was used totally on brief throws together with designed screens of their first matchup. Lawrence did miss Engram on a possible landing when the tight finish broke free from protection early within the first matchup however there weren’t quite a lot of possibilities for an enormous rating in any other case, simply quite a lot of quantity. 

JAGUARS: New addition Calvin Ridley figures to attract probably the most targets, which suggests Engram might be a week-to-week, matchup-dependent choice. Fortunately, he has the matchup this week. 

COLTS: Have questions all around the protection however actually in terms of protecting athletic tight ends. Linebackers Zaire Franklin and Shaquille Leonard (if he performs) have allowed excessive catch charges over their careers, and new safeties Rodney Thomas and particularly Julian Blackmon have as nicely. 

LAST YEAR: Indy used quite a lot of cornerbacks on Engram, which wound up working in opposition to them as Engram drew high quality protection away from Christian Kirk, who scored 3 times in two video games. Indy has refreshed its outdoors cornerbacks this offseason; it could induce some matchups for the Jaguars to go after with all their pass-catchers, not simply Engram. 

When you begin Engram, you are banking on the Jaguars throwing a superb quantity even in a recreation the place they might blow out their opponent. That would simply be the M.O. of Jacksonville’s offense this 12 months. Use him whilst you can as a result of matchups will come down the pike the place Engram might be a non-factor. I might begin Engram this week over Pat Freiermuth, Juwan Johnson and any rookie TE. 

AIYUK: Stays one of many three most explosive playmakers within the 49ers offense. 

49ERS: In the event that they wrestle to run the ball in opposition to the Steelers’ entrance, determine Brock Purdy will preserve the secondary guessing with quite a lot of brief throws. There may be issues about Purdy’s arm energy past what we noticed final season. 

STEELERS: Among the many league’s most man-heavy protection defenses final 12 months, however that might be a harmful method this week given Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey within the 49ers offense. It also needs to be famous that the Steelers went 6-2 final season once they performed zone protection 65% of the time or extra in a recreation (and 3-6 once they did not). Pittsburgh completed 2022 taking part in their heaviest zone protection and went 3-0.

AIYUK: Did not see as many targets on a per-route foundation final 12 months versus zone protection (20.2% versus 29.3% in opposition to man) however did have a better catch charge (72.4% versus 61.1%) and fielded a better ADOT (10.54 versus 9.08) in opposition to zone. Clearly his explosiveness is healthier in opposition to man protection as a result of he can beat single protection. 

LAST YEAR: Seven of Aiyuk’s final 12 video games resulted in at the least 13 PPR factors, and all however a kind of 12 video games resulted in at the least 9.6 PPR factors. 

Aiyuk will line up throughout from veteran corners like Levi Wallace and Patrick Peterson, each of whom allowed a sub-60% completion charge final 12 months. That is just a little scary, however Aiyuk’s upside is matchup-proof given his explosiveness. If the Steelers run protection was worse I might step again from Aiyuk, nevertheless it’s not, so Aiyuk has some potential to be at the least a flex. I might begin him over Chris Godwin, Diontae Johnson and Christian Kirk. 

HARRIS: Ended 2022 with at the least 13 PPR factors in every of his remaining 5 video games, however solely as soon as in that span did he get 16-plus PPR. In these remaining 5, touchdowns accounted for 30.8% of his complete PPR scoring.

TOUCHDOWNS: Are what you will want for Harris if he stays as inefficient as he was within the back-half of 2022. 

49ERS: Allowed seven touchdowns to working backs final season, tied for fifth-fewest within the NFL, and solely 4 of the seven got here from three yards or nearer. 

49ERS: Added huge D-tackle Javon Hargrave to their defensive position rotation to higher assist in opposition to the run. Oren Burks might not be obtainable, however Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw have been robust linebackers in opposition to the run for a number of years with security Talanoa Hufanga taking part in behind them. It is a robust unit. 

WARREN: Although beat studies recommend Harris continues to be the Steelers’ prime working again for now, there’s been sufficient proof by coaching camp and in preseason video games to recommend that Jaylen Warren may decide up work not solely in apparent passing conditions, however in some working conditions as nicely. Harris held a smaller-than-expected lead in preseason snaps with the beginning offense in August (57% to 43%). We may see an analogous snap share in Week 1, notably if the 49ers preserve Harris bottled up. 

There have been simply 5 occasions in Harris’ 34 regular-season outings the place he is topped 15 PPR factors with out scoring a landing, and three of these 5 have been barely over 15 PPR factors (not more than 17.0). So should you do not suppose he is scoring, do not anticipate a monster recreation. RBs with extra upside in PPR embody Brian Robinson, James Conner and James Cook dinner. 

EVANS: Stays locked into every-down work for the Bucs, however this 12 months he is anticipated to maneuver across the formation extra in an effort to seek out favorable matchups. Evans hasn’t performed greater than 24% of his snaps within the slot over his previous 4 seasons. 

BAKER MAYFIELD: Has truly seemed not terrible this summer season in response to a number of accounts. That was actually the case in preseason video games when he threw nearly solely brief passes, finishing all however one in all his 15 tries. He additionally tossed two touchdowns over three red-zone makes an attempt. 

VIKINGS: Vital questions within the defensive secondary. Byron Murphy needs to be a staple who performs within the slot in opposition to three-wide formations, however in any other case they’re going to depend on man-coverage specialist rookie Mekhi Blackmon and, presumably, Akayleb Evans as their different corners. There isn’t any query they’re going to get examined. 

VIKINGS: Have an excellent move rush duo in Danielle Hunter and Marcus Davenport, however the remainder of the entrance seven is not notably worrisome. Mayfield may get blitzed a bunch, but when he is eliminating the ball shortly then he’ll overcome it as a rule. 

A savvy veteran like Evans ought to discover himself in place for a superb quantity of targets in a good matchup in opposition to an incomplete Vikings protection that might find yourself taking quite a lot of possibilities with their protection. He barely makes the minimize as a WR2 and, for this week, is a safer begin in full PPR over Brandon Aiyuk, Courtland Sutton, George Pickens and Marquise Brown.

ADDISON: Anticipated to work because the No. 2 receiver for the Vikings, albeit by a slender margin over Okay.J. Osborn. Each didn’t play within the preseason, suggesting they’re thought of useful offensive gamers. Neither ought to see quite a lot of heavy protection given they play alongside Justin Jefferson. 

BUCCANEERS: Have been a zone-heavy squad final 12 months (73.2% of their defensive snaps) and determine to be once more beneath coach and playcaller Todd Bowles. Cornerbacks Jamel Dean and Carlton Davis are high quality starters on the skin however questions persist concerning the center of the sphere, notably on the intermediate stage. 

ADDISON: Had a excessive catch charge at USC final 12 months no matter protection however managed higher effectivity in opposition to zone protection (16.0 yards per catch and seven.4 Yards After Catch per Reception) than man protection (13.1-yard receiving common, 6.6 YAC/reception). 

VIKINGS: Have been top-three within the NFL in move charge final season and are assumed to be in that top vary once more this 12 months; Kirk Cousins tried at the least 30 passes in 15 of 17 video games and at the least 35 passes in 12 of 17. 

Addison is a terrific addition to the Vikings offense and needs to be leaned on instantly as a zone-beater with fast jukes and pace. He is value taking the possibility on as a WR3 or a PPR flex forward of Marquise Brown, George Pickens, any Ravens WR and Mike Williams.  

WILLIAMS: Figures to get quite a lot of touches contemplating Alvin Kamara on the suspended record and rookie Kendre Miller coping with a hamstring harm after dealing with a knee challenge all summer season. Fairly actually the Saints’ different speeding choices are undrafted working again Kirk Merritt (zero regular-season carries), a few guys on the apply squad and … you guessed it … Taysom Hill.  

WILLIAMS: Ranked among the many least environment friendly working backs within the NFL final 12 months, rating thirtieth or worse amongst 47 RBs with 100-plus carries in speeding common, yards earlier than and after contact per rush, five-plus yard rush charge and averted sort out charge. 

TOUCHDOWNS: 45.2% of Williams’ PPR Fantasy factors in 2022 have been produced solely by his 17 touchdowns. Not solely is the likelihood low for Williams to common a landing per recreation, however the Saints have used Taysom Hill efficiently as a short-yardage winner for years. 

TITANS: Have a beefy D-line anchored by huge plug Jeffrey Simmons and improved their run protection with new linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair and second-year thumper Jack Gibbens to associate with Monty Rice. This has the makings of a troublesome project. 

Williams quantity figures to be excessive, however what good did that do him final 12 months when he struggled to notch 4.1 yards per carry? Tack on Hill taking away touchdowns doubtlessly and there simply is not so much to love about Williams’ matchup. Solely a good choice in non-PPR, I might sit Williams in full-PPR for James Cook dinner, David Montgomery and Brian Robinson. 

2022: Completed with 10-plus PPR factors in six of his remaining 10 video games. That is good, particularly since he did not even play 60% of the snaps in a few of these video games. 

PRESEASON: Was on the sphere for 9 of 12 snaps — 75% — with Derek Carr, a doable sign that his function figures to develop in video games the Saints could must throw greater than run. 

CARR: Threw to his tight ends simply 17.6% of the time in 2022, however which will have been because of Darren Waller lacking a lot time. Within the three years prior Carr threw targets to his tight ends at the least 23.3% of the time and obtained as excessive as 32.8% of the time in 2019. 

TITANS: Have a superb cowl DB in Kevin Byard to fight tight ends however allowed the second-most yards to the place final 12 months (1,127) with seven scores. Thoughts you, this was in opposition to a schedule of tight ends that didn’t embody Mark Andrews, T.J. Hockenson, Kyle Pitts, George Kittle, Dallas Goedert or David Njoku. They’d some struggles, they usually did not do a lot to repair it this offseason past paying Byard much less cash. 

Johnson’s a danger contemplating the opposite primo targets within the Saints offense and their anticipated utilization once they’re near the aim line. However Johnson averaged a landing as soon as each 4 receptions in his remaining 10 video games and might be in line to see 4 catches each week with Carr. When you’re streaming tight ends, it is a sensible choice forward of Gerald Everett, Cole Kmet, Dalton Schultz and Jake Ferguson (although Ferguson does carry strong rest-of-season worth). 

LAST YEAR: Herbert was one of many NFL’s best working backs, main qualifying RBs in yards per rush (5.7) and rating top-five in yards earlier than/after contact, runs of zero/unfavourable yards (simply 13.2% of all carries) and explosive run charge (11.6% of his runs went at the least 12 yards). The vast majority of these rushes got here on first and second downs; Herbert performed simply 63 third-down snaps and recorded simply 11 touches on them. 

THIS YEAR: Herbert ought to face competitors for high-value touches, notably close to the aim line and on some third downs. D’Onta Foreman figures to get a crack at working these bodily conditions, however rookie Roschon Johnson performed a few of these third-down snaps as lately because the Bears’ final preseason recreation.

PACKERS: Struggled in opposition to the run final 12 months, giving up a cool 5.0 yards per tote with bottom-six effectivity in yards earlier than and after contact. The crew added outdoors linebacker Lukas Van Ness and defensive finish Colby Picket within the draft to assist assist the front-seven, however they’re in any other case relying on linebacker Quay Walker and D-tackle Devonte Wyatt to take steps ahead. To be honest, each did towards the top of final 12 months. 

BEARS: Added bulk to their offensive line, notably the precise facet with veteran Nate Davis and rookie Darnell Wright. Nonetheless, they misplaced guard Teven Jenkins to harm and are already pressured to shuffle their offensive line earlier than the season even begins. Jenkins had their highest run-blocking grade from Professional Soccer Focus final 12 months, although he missed quite a lot of the 12 months; Davis additionally notched a superb grade taking part in with Tennessee.

There’s quite a lot of uncertainty right here — will Herbert get extra work than he did final 12 months now that he is the incumbent starter, or will he lose out on the aim line? And the way good is the matchup? Lastly, keep in mind that the Bears have D.J. Moore able to associate with a now-healthy Darnell Mooney. Chicago may shock just a little bit with how a lot they throw. Herbert is a greater flex in non-PPR than half- or full-PPR, which is why in these codecs I really feel higher going with James Cook dinner, D’Andre Swift, Cam Akers and Jamaal Williams. 

STAFFORD: Down Cooper Kupp, the Rams will want dependable targets all through the sport. In 25 video games with Matthew Stafford, Higbee ranks third in targets per recreation (6.13) and is second in goal per route run charge (19.6%) amongst gamers nonetheless with the Rams. 

SEAHAWKS: Have been horrible in opposition to tight ends final 12 months (14.4 yards per catch to the place was the worst within the league), however bringing again Bobby Wagner and enhancing the secondary ought to yield higher outcomes. 

HIGBEE: Has had an ADOT beneath 7.0 yards in 4 of his previous 5 seasons. He figures to work as a straightforward short-area outlet for Stafford, one thing the Seahawks would in all probability be wonderful with giving up when the Rams are chasing factors within the second half. 

That is all about quantity and alternative in a Rams offense lacking its prime weapon. In reality, for nonetheless lengthy Kupp is out, Higbee ought to profit. Seeing a protection that is been fairly unhealthy in opposition to tight ends for the previous 4 seasons helps. In PPR I might begin him over any streamer you can consider and each rookie tight finish. In non-PPR he is not as interesting. 

SEAN PAYTON: The Broncos coach has despatched combined messages — earlier this week he singled Williams out as one of some Broncos who might be on “a minutes plan” for this matchup, however then on Wednesday mentioned Williams is “going to play an enormous function. I have not put collectively a quantity for him.” Williams will play in his first regular-season recreation since tearing his ACL final October; he performed simply 12 snaps this preseason. 

WILLIAMS: In these 12 preseason snaps, Williams put up 4.0 yards per rush on three carries with 4 grabs for 18 yards. He was keen to play bodily soccer, however he wasn’t explosive in any respect and particularly appeared sluggish to collect himself after he stopped working. The 4 catches on 5 targets this preseason have been good, however I believe he’ll quit quite a lot of these to Samaje Perine, who had only one goal this preseason. 

O-LINE: The Broncos’ guards have been just a little underwhelming this preseason. Middle Lloyd Cushenberry performed higher than a 12 months prior nevertheless it stays to be seen if he can maintain up. Getting proper sort out Mike McGlinchey again will assist, although he’ll see a ton of Maxx Crosby, which is not a superb matchup for a man getting back from a knee sprain. 

RAIDERS: You would possibly snicker at this, and even I would snicker at this after Week 1, however the Raiders appear to have an improved run protection. Including linebacker Robert Spillane and rookie edge Tyree Wilson will assist, and second-year linebacker Divine Deablo graded out nicely as soon as he moved from security final 12 months. Not having Chandler Jones hurts the move rush, however not a lot the run protection. They might be respectable. 

There’s undoubtedly an opportunity Williams and Perine fall into an ambiguous, hot-hand state of affairs the place whichever again is shifting finest will see second-half reps. The “huge function” remark is good, however Payton instantly talked about Samaje Perine and speedy rookie Jaleel McLaughlin as others who would see some motion. If he seemed sharper this preseason then I might really feel extra assured calling him a must-start. Because it stands, he is a superb flex with some modest receiving worth. I might begin him over Isiah Pacheco, Cam Akers and Khalil Herbert, however James Conner, Brian Robinson and James Cook dinner are safer bets in PPR. 

DOLPHINS: With Jeff Wilson on IR, Mostert is predicted to be the lead working again. It is a certainty that Miami will use a number of runners within the recreation, however Mostert ought to paved the way due to his good pace. 

MOSTERT: Had at the least 15 non-PPR factors in 3 of 4 video games final 12 months with at the least 15 carries. In seven video games with at the least 15 touches final 12 months, Mostert hit 15-plus PPR factors 4 occasions. 

CHARGERS: Final 12 months they gave up 5.4 yards per carry and have been below-average on all different metrics. Including veteran inside linebacker Eric Kendricks will assist, assuming he can nonetheless play at a excessive stage in his age-31 season, however the Chargers determination to stay with Kenneth Murray is mind-boggling. Pair that with a defensive position that is no higher than strong and we’re a unit that does not determine to enhance a lot in opposition to the run.

HISTORY: Mostert had simply 37 yards on 11 carries with a seven-yard catch in opposition to the Chargers; he began the sport sharing with Wilson earlier than Wilson obtained harm within the first half.  

Mostert does not at all times get quite a lot of targets, which hurts his PPR upside, and the Dolphins’ quick-strike nature may simply take snaps and touchdowns away from Mostert. However of their first recreation it might make sense to provide Mostert a good workload, if solely to maintain the offense balanced and never pressure Tua Tagovailoa right into a ton of throws. In non-PPR I might give Mostert a shot over D’Andre Swift, Antonio Gibson, Dalvin Cook dinner and Khalil Herbert. 

EAGLES: There’s been quite a lot of turnover however this unit continues to be very, very robust — they usually’re youthful than they have been in 2022. Jalen Carter might be a pressure up the center and linebacker Nolan Smith needs to be good chasing working backs down from sideline to sideline. This might be a nightmare protection for all working backs. 

STEVENSON: Per Professional Soccer Focus, had higher effectivity final 12 months working between the tackles (5.1 yards per carry, 10.6% explosive run charge) quite than to the sides (4.6 yards per carry, 8.7% explosive run charge). The sides are the place Stevenson must reside, full with a bit of receiving yards, if he will have a powerful recreation in opposition to this protection. 

O-LINE: We did not see a lot of New England’s beginning entrance 5 this preseason partly as a result of they have been banged up. Getting into this recreation, left guard Cole Unusual and proper guard Mike Onwenu have been restricted in apply. Proper sort out might be an journey all 12 months with Calvin Anderson and his struggling run-blocking grades over three seasons/471 profession snaps. This group figures to be a legal responsibility. 

ZEKE: And naturally, Ezekiel Elliott’s arrival in New England figures to zap a few of Stevenson’s upside from week to week as a landing scorer. Not that that is information — Stevenson scored two touchdowns in 10 complete video games with Damien Harris final 12 months, and Harris wasn’t anyplace near a full-time again for the Patriots. 

There isn’t any strategy to bench Stevenson in any sort of PPR league this week, however should you begin him in non-PPR then you definately’re hoping he comes by with a bunch of receiving yards together with a few spike runs to assist him hit 10-plus factors. This Eagles run protection is admittedly robust and I anticipate them to decelerate the Patriots. In non-PPR I might quite begin Miles Sanders, David Montgomery and Raheem Mostert, however Stevenson is a straightforward begin over these three in PPR. 

GIANTS: Determine to reside and die by their move rush strain in opposition to Prescott. Of their lone recreation in opposition to him final 12 months, the Giants registered a season-high move rush strain charge of 64.5%, however they did not sack him as soon as.  

LAST YEAR: Prescott accomplished 70% of his 30 throws in opposition to the Giants for 261 yards and two touchdowns, but additionally threw two interceptions. That occurred to be Prescott’s third recreation beneath 20 Fantasy factors in his previous 4 in opposition to the Giants. 

THIS YEAR: The Giants made some good offseason strikes, including linebacker Bobby Okereke to assist defend tight ends, rookie cornerback Deonte Banks to assist in opposition to receivers, and up to date newcomer Isaiah Simmons to hurry the passer. Paired with second-year edge Kayvon Thibodeaux and a extremely deep defensive position, the unit may undoubtedly preserve the strain on Prescott — and sack him greater than a few occasions. 

O-LINE: Dallas could also be with out left guard Tyler Smith, leaving rookie Asim Richards (no relation) to play in opposition to the Giants’ stacked entrance. 

COWBOYS: Anticipated to play at a slower tempo after ending within the top-two in performs per minute in every of the previous three seasons. That would imply Prescott will try a lot fewer than the 36.7 passes per recreation he had over these three seasons mixed (he was at 33.2 in his final 11 video games of 2022). Clearly the scoreboard will dictate that. 

COWBOYS: Did add Brandin Cooks to their receiving corps, giving Prescott an superior trio of receivers in CeeDee Lamb, Cooks and Michael Gallup, plus working again Tony Pollard can contribute by the air. 

It looks like the percentages are in opposition to Prescott having an enormous recreation — what may be extra probably is a modest matchup the place Prescott fires two touchdowns and will get 250 yards, however that is about it. The O-line is a slight concern, however the Cowboys’ need to not snap the ball so quick from play to play may value Prescott just a few alternatives. He is value beginning over Aaron Rodgers, Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson, however Jared Goff, Kirk Cousins and Geno Smith have extra upside. 

JETS: Have a mega-stud in receiver Garrett Wilson, however the remainder of the targets of their offense will not get anybody overestimated. Mecole Hardman has pace however has by no means been a constant receiver; Allen Lazard is trusted by Rodgers however is not a dominator; Randall Cobb … critically? 

O-LINE: Is a fair greater concern for the Jets — the unit set to guard the oldest beginning quarterback within the league has a 38-year-old left sort out, an injury-plagued proper sort out and a promising proper guard who’s getting back from harm. Regardless that four-fifths of those guys graded out nicely in move safety in apparent passing performs final 12 months, they determine to be a goal for each protection they play. 

BILLS: Needs to be just a little extra aggressive this 12 months on protection with Sean McDermott calling performs. The move rush is deep even with out Von Miller, and the secondary ought to have a bounce-back 12 months from Tre’Davious White to match up with large depth and excellent safeties. 

Fantasy managers should not anticipate Rodgers to play like he did early on final 12 months when getting over 20 Fantasy factors appeared not possible, however do not financial institution on him mowing down the Payments or the Cowboys in Weeks 1 and a couple of both. If something, the Jets could choose to be balanced and lean on their run recreation a superb quantity. Rodgers can have his matchups this 12 months, however Week 1 is not the time to belief him in a one-QB league. I might quite begin Deshaun Watson, Kirk Cousins and Geno Smith.