Fantasy football managers know that every lineup decision can make or break a week, and choosing the right players to start or sit is where championships are won. With the 2025 NFL season underway, matchups, stats, and trends are more important than ever. Each week, we’ll break down the top fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em picks at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, defense, and kicker to help you set the best possible lineup. From favorable matchups and scoring trends to players you should avoid in tough spots, my weekly guide is built to give you an edge.
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Quarterbacks to Start
Jaxson Dart NYG
Jaxson Dart has quickly evolved into one of fantasy football’s most consistent dual-threat options. Even in games where his passing production has cooled, Dart’s ability to make plays with his legs has elevated his floor, scoring a rushing touchdown in four of his five starts while rushing for over 50 rushing yards in three of them. His mobility has been a game-changer, compensating for an up-and-down passing profile. Still, he’s averaged 21.4 fantasy points per game as a starter, a testament to his all-around production. Facing minimal defensive pressure this week could be exactly what he needs to sustain that success.
That opportunity arrives against a struggling 49ers defense that has quietly become a favorable matchup for fantasy quarterbacks. San Francisco ranks bottom two in both sacks and interceptions while generating the lowest pressure rate in the NFL, which bodes well for Dart’s ability to make plays from the pocket and on the move. Opposing quarterbacks have topped 19 fantasy points in three of their past four matchups against this unit, and Dart’s recent consistency suggests he could be next in line. With Cam Skattebo out and New York’s backfield thin, expect Dart to rely even more on his rushing ability. Fantasy managers should feel confident to start Dart in Week 9, as his combination of rushing equity and matchup advantage makes him a strong low-end QB1 across all formats.
Sam Darnold SEA
Sam Darnold has been one of the more consistent options at quarterback this year, ranking as the QB13 entering Week 9. Despite struggling against a stifling Texans defense in his last start, Darnold previously logged back-to-back games with 20+ fantasy points and has posted at least 16 points in four of his past five outings. Efficiency hasn’t been his issue; he ranks second in yards per attempt and ninth in fantasy points per dropback, but limited passing volume in Seattle’s offense has capped his overall ceiling. The efficiency has allowed him to be one of the more consistent options in fantasy despite the limited volume. This week, he may finally get a chance to reach his ceiling.
Washington’s defense has become a dream matchup for opposing quarterbacks, ranking fifth in fantasy points allowed to the position while surrendering the fourth-most passing yards and touchdowns this season. The Commanders’ secondary has been repeatedly exposed, with quarterbacks like Dak Prescott and Patrick Mahomes combining for over 57 fantasy points in their last two contests against them. If Jayden Daniels suits up for Washington, this game could turn into a closer game, a scenario that favors Darnold’s upside. Having already produced QB1 weeks in three of his last five outings, Darnold is well-positioned to deliver another strong fantasy line. Fantasy managers should start Darnold with confidence in Week 9, especially in 12-team leagues or deeper formats.
Caleb Williams CHI
Caleb Williams’ 2025 season has had flashes of brilliance mixed with bouts of inconsistency. Over his last four games, he’s finished outside the top 20 quarterbacks three times, struggling to generate rushing production with fewer than 25 yards on the ground in each of those outings while being incredibly inaccurate. His accuracy metrics are brutal, ranking 39th in highly accurate throw rate and 41st in catchable target rate. Despite those struggles, Williams’ arm talent and improvisational ability remain evident, and he’s still averaging mid-QB2 production at 14th in fantasy points per game. Now, he faces a defense that could help him get back on track.
The Bengals have been a fantasy goldmine for opposing quarterbacks, ranking first in passing touchdowns allowed and fifth in passing yards surrendered since Week 4. They’ve given up at least 20.5 fantasy points in all but two games this season, allowing both Aaron Rodgers and Justin Fields to explode for a combined 53.3 points in their last two outings. That defensive vulnerability makes Williams an appealing bounce-back candidate this week. With his dual-threat potential and a soft secondary to exploit, the Bears’ offense could finally click through the air. Fantasy managers should look to start Williams in Week 9, trusting the matchup against a leaky Bengals defense to fuel one of his best performances since September.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Jordan Love GB
Jordan Love exploded for a QB1 overall finish last week, reminding everyone of his upside given a favorable matchup and more passing volume. Fantasy managers have also witnessed the volatility that comes with Love in the Packers offense as well. Before that performance, Love had scored under 16 fantasy points in four of seven games this season, frequently undone by Green Bay’s run-heavy tendencies and inconsistent red-zone execution. Statistically, Love has shown growth as a passer, ranking fifth in yards per attempt and eighth in CPOE, but those numbers haven’t always translated to steady weekly output. Green Bay’s offense continues to emphasize balance, ranking fourth in rushing rate and heavily leaning on its ground game when ahead. This week’s matchup presents conditions that could pull Love back toward his floor.
The Panthers have quietly developed into one of the league’s most efficient pass defenses, holding opponents under 200 passing yards per game while ranking above average in completion rate, passer rating, and success rate against. With Carolina just allowing 245 rushing yards to Buffalo and the Packers running among the most in the league, this contest sets up as a ground-dominant affair. Love’s passing volume could be limited once again, reducing his fantasy ceiling. While he’s playing well in real-life football terms, the matchup and game script make him risky for fantasy purposes. Managers should sit Love in Week 9 unless forced to start him in deeper formats or Superflex leagues.
Bo Nix DEN
Bo Nix has been one of the hottest quarterbacks in fantasy football over the past two weeks, averaging 31.9 points per game and totaling seven touchdowns in that span. His connection with Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin has been clicking, and his accuracy and consistency have shown steady improvement since a rocky start to the season. Nix’s passing volume and efficiency have both climbed, with 263 passing yards per game compared to just 178.3 during the first three weeks. However, those big outings came in favorable matchups at home versus the Giants and Cowboys. This week, he draws a far less forgiving opponent.
Houston’s defense has been a nightmare for fantasy quarterbacks, allowing the fewest fantasy points per game to the position while holding opposing passers to fewer touchdowns than interceptions. Only two quarterbacks all season have topped 15.6 points against the Texans, and none have finished as a weekly QB1. Houston’s defensive metrics also include the second-lowest completion rate and league-best pass EPA with one of the best pass rushes in football. Combined with Denver’s likely conservative game plan against a struggling Texans offense, Nix’s opportunity for great fantasy production is not there. Fantasy managers should sit Nix in Week 9, as his recent surge is unlikely to continue against one of the league’s toughest pass defenses.
CJ Stroud HOU
C.J. Stroud continues to deliver solid fantasy performances, surpassing 22 fantasy points in three of his past four games while showing improved chemistry with his younger receivers. He’s displayed improved play under pressure over the last few weeks, but is still struggling analytically. Among 45 qualifying quarterbacks, Stroud ranks just 27th in yards per attempt and 26th in catchable target rate, indicating that some of his production has come from volume and efficiency in easier matchups than a true return to form. The return of Nico Collins should help his outlook, but he still faces one of the league’s most underrated defenses.
The Broncos’ pass defense has been suffocating since Week 4, allowing the sixth-fewest passing yards per game and the lowest completion percentage over expected (CPOE). Only three quarterbacks have scored more than 16.6 fantasy points against them this season, and their success rate against the pass ranks second-best in the league. Even without Patrick Surtain, Denver’s secondary remains disciplined and opportunistic. While Stroud has been much better lately, his ceiling appears capped in this matchup. Fantasy managers should sit Stroud in Week 9, viewing him as a low-end QB2 rather than a trustworthy starting option.
Running Backs to Start
Travis Etienne JAC
Travis Etienne entered his bye week in need of a reset after three straight games under 10 PPR points. That stretch came against some of the league’s toughest run defenses in Kansas City, Seattle, and Los Angeles, who all rank top-10 in limiting rushing efficiency. Even with the recent struggles, Etienne is averaging 85 total yards per game and has performed well in favorable matchups. He’s shown an ability to break big plays, ranking 19th in explosive run rate and 26th in yards after contact per attempt among qualifying running backs. Jacksonville’s offense should benefit from extra preparation time coming off the bye, especially with its offensive line getting healthier.
Given the matchup, this is a prime week for Etienne to bounce back. The Raiders have surrendered the sixth-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs since Week 5, including at least one touchdown allowed in four of their past five outings. Seven different running backs have reached double-digit PPR points against Las Vegas, with several surpassing 16 points. Etienne’s usage and explosive upside in favorable matchups make him a strong bet to outperform his recent averages. Fantasy managers should confidently slot Etienne in as a start for Week 9, with expectations of a top-15 finish at the position.
Kimani Vidal LAC
Kimani Vidal continues to impress as the Chargers’ lead back, stepping up each time Omarion Hampton has been sidelined. Over the last three games without Hampton, Vidal has averaged 19.4 touches and 100 total yards per contest, flashing big-play upside and physicality between the tackles. He ranks third among all running backs in explosive run rate and 14th in yards after contact per attempt, showing he can create production even without elite blocking. In Week 8, he punished Minnesota’s defense for 127 total yards and a touchdown, finishing as a top-10 fantasy back. The Chargers have leaned heavily on Vidal when game scripts favor the run, and that trend should continue.
Vidal draws an extremely favorable matchup in Week 9 against the Titans, whose run defense has collapsed in recent weeks. Since Week 4, Tennessee has allowed the ninth-most rushing yards per game, the 13th-highest explosive run rate, and the fourth-highest yards before contact per attempt. They’ve also surrendered the most rushing touchdowns and third-most fantasy points per game to opposing backs. Game flow should keep Vidal heavily involved throughout, and his efficiency metrics suggest he’ll capitalize on every touch. Fantasy managers can treat him as a must-start RB1 for Week 9 with legitimate top-10 upside once again.
Zonovan “Bam” Knight ARI
With Trey Benson still on injured reserve, Zonovan Knight should remain the Cardinals’ featured back for at least one more game. Over his last two appearances, Knight has handled nearly 48% of the snaps, averaging 14.5 touches and 59 total yards. The efficiency hasn’t been great; he’s posted zero explosive runs and only 1.31 yards after contact per attempt, but the volume is encouraging. Arizona has made a clear effort to establish him early in games, and his goal-line involvement has helped him score twice over his last three outings. This week, the matchup couldn’t be more favorable for a bounce-back performance.
Knight faces a Cowboys defense that has been one of the most generous to opposing running backs. Dallas has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to the position, giving up explosive runs at the second-highest rate and struggling to contain backs both before and after contact. Seven different running backs have posted at least 13.9 PPR points against them, and they rank fifth in rushing yards and second in receiving yards allowed to the position. With clear early-down volume and touchdown potential, Knight profiles as a startable RB2 or flex option in Week 9. His lack of efficiency is concerning long-term, but the matchup gives him a strong fantasy floor this week.
Running Backs to Sit
Rico Dowdle CAR
Rico Dowdle has looked impressive on a per-touch basis, showing burst and power whenever given opportunities. Over the past two games, he’s averaged 13 touches and 75 total yards while maintaining a 40% snap share and limited passing-down usage since Chuba Hubbard returned. His efficiency has stood out this season, ranking 16th in explosive run rate and third in yards after contact per attempt among 60 qualifiers. However, Carolina continues to rotate Chuba Hubbard into red zone work and passing situations, capping Dowdle’s weekly ceiling. Even with talk of a larger workload, he’s yet to exceed 15 touches in any game this season.
Unfortunately, Dowdle’s Week 9 matchup is one of the toughest possible draws. The Packers rank third in fewest fantasy points allowed to running backs and have stifled opposing ground games, holding the last three starting running backs under 9.4 PPR points each. Green Bay’s defense has allowed the sixth-fewest rushing yards per game since Week 4 while ranking among the league’s best in limiting explosive plays and yards after contact. Dowdle’s efficiency might not be enough to overcome low volume and a split backfield in such a difficult matchup. He’s better left on fantasy benches as a sit this week unless you’re desperate for a flex play.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt WAS
Jacory Croskey-Merritt’s rookie breakout has cooled considerably since his 27-point eruption in Week 5. Over his last three games, he’s averaged just 13 carries for 39.7 yards and 4.2 PPR points per game. His receiving involvement has been nearly nonexistent, catching only seven passes for 60 yards all season. Washington has rotated backs depending on the game script, and Croskey-Merritt’s early-down-only role limits his upside when the Commanders fall behind. Against teams with strong front sevens, he’s struggled to find running lanes or generate explosive plays.
That’s a major concern heading into Week 9 against Seattle’s suffocating run defense. The Seahawks have allowed the fewest rushing yards per game (57.4) and the second-fewest rushing touchdowns to opposing backs. While they’ve been vulnerable through the air, surrendering the most receptions and fourth-most receiving yards to running backs, Croskey-Merritt doesn’t have the role to exploit that weakness. He’s now finished outside the top 40 fantasy RBs in three straight weeks and has totaled fewer than 35 rushing yards in back-to-back contests. Even with bye weeks limiting options, Croskey-Merritt is a clear sit in all formats this week.
Alvin Kamara NO
Once a model of fantasy consistency, Alvin Kamara has seen his production plummet this season. He’s posting career lows in yards per carry, yards per reception, and overall yards per touch, while his success rate has dipped sharply both as a rusher and receiver. The veteran has averaged just 10.3 PPR points per game and hasn’t scored a touchdown since Week 1. Over the last six weeks, he’s finished inside the top 25 fantasy RBs only once, falling outside the top 30 in consecutive weeks. With the Saints’ offense sputtering and Kamara’s efficiency fading, his once-elite floor has vanished.
Week 9 brings another brutal matchup against the Rams, who have been elite at containing running backs all year. Los Angeles has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points per game to the position and remains the only defense yet to surrender a rushing touchdown to a running back. They’ve stifled stars like Christian McCaffrey and Jonathan Taylor in recent weeks and should have no trouble keying on Kamara with rookie Tyler Shough under center. His declining usage in the passing game, three or fewer receptions in half his games, further reduces his upside. Kamara belongs on the sit list for Week 9, as his outlook is among the bleakest of all notable running backs.
Wide Receivers to Start
Travis Hunter JAC
Travis Hunter continues to inch closer towards a more consistent role in the Jaguars’ passing game. He’s fresh off a stellar 8-catch, 101-yard, 1-touchdown performance against the Rams in London, a game that showcased his chemistry with Trevor Lawrence and his ability to win both downfield and underneath, given more usage. The Jaguars’ offensive staff reportedly plans to feature Hunter more coming out of their bye week, especially with Brian Thomas Jr. nursing a shoulder injury. Against a Raiders defense that plays zone coverage at the third-highest rate, this matchup sets up perfectly for Hunter, who has feasted on such looks all season.
Now, as the Jaguars gear up for a favorable Week 9 matchup with Las Vegas, Hunter’s stock is trending upward. The Raiders have surrendered the fourth-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers and struggle to contain boundary threats. Seven receivers have already cleared 14.6 PPR points against this defense, and Hunter’s growing target volume (21 in his past two games) hints at continued success. If Thomas remains limited or sidelined, Hunter’s ceiling rises even higher. All signs point toward another strong fantasy outing, making Hunter a confident start in Week 9.
Wan’Dale Robinson NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson’s Week 8 performance against the Eagles was forgettable, but the advanced metrics tell a much different story about his usage and opportunity. Over the past month, Robinson has commanded a 22.9% target share and leads the team with a 24% 1st read share since Malik Nabers got hurt. His route tree has expanded under Jaxson Dart with his 2.12 yards per route run, and his 58% slot rate aligns perfectly with how the 49ers have been exposed all season. The red zone usage has also improved as he has seen four targets in his last five games. Without Cam Skattebo, Robinson has a strong argument as Jaxson Dart’s most valuable skill position player the rest of the season.
Week 9 brings an ideal opportunity for Robinson to bounce back and reward fantasy managers’ patience. San Francisco’s secondary has given up seven receivers with at least 11.3 PPR points in their last four games, and they have also allowed the most yards and third-most touchdowns to slot receivers, while also giving up the highest passer rating when targeted in that area. With the 49ers’ defense struggling to pressure opposing quarterbacks, expect Dart to have time to find his favorite safety blanket underneath. Fantasy managers should treat Robinson as a viable start in PPR formats this week.
Marvin Harrison Jr. ARI
Marvin Harrison Jr. has had an up-and-down sophomore season, sitting as the WR41 in fantasy points per game with single-digit performances in four of seven contests. He’s posted a 16.5% target share, 33.5% air-yard share, 56.6 receiving yards per game, and leads the team with 11 deep targets. After struggling with Jacoby Brissett before the bye, Harrison should benefit from Kyler Murray’s return under center in Week 9. This matchup against Dallas is as favorable as it gets; the Cowboys have allowed the most touchdowns (15), most yards, and the most fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, including the most production to perimeter wideouts, where Harrison has lined up 80% of the time.
The Cowboys’ defense has also leaned heavily on man coverage (42%) and single-high looks (71%) over the past two games, which suits Harrison’s skill set. Against man, he leads the team with a 24% target per route run rate, and that should bode well against a brutal defense. Since Week 4, Dallas has surrendered the ninth-most deep passing yards per game and the third-highest deep passer rating, giving Harrison’s downfield role added upside. With Arizona likely to be chasing points, this is a prime spot for Harrison to rebound and deliver one of his best fantasy performances of the year.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Xavier Worthy KC
The Chiefs’ offense has started to settle into a rhythm since Rashee Rice’s return, but that has come at the expense of Xavier Worthy’s production. Over the past two games, Worthy has totaled just eight catches for 88 yards on 11 targets, far from the explosive plays fantasy managers hoped for and what we saw before Rice’s return. He’s maintained a modest 15.9% target share and 19.6% first-read rate in that span, signaling a clear shift in the passing hierarchy. With Patrick Mahomes spreading the ball between Rice, Travis Kelce, and the backs, Worthy is left fighting for scraps. Unless he connects on a long touchdown, his floor is dangerously low.
Buffalo’s defense, meanwhile, has been tough on perimeter receivers, ranking 15th in PPR points per target allowed since Week 4. Worthy’s heavy reliance on deep routes and low catch volume makes him game-script dependent and volatile. The Bills also operate with two-high safeties over 50% of their snaps, and Worthy’s yards per route run against that coverage this year are down to 0.59 against those looks. Fantasy managers should view him as a risky dart throw and comfortably sit him in Week 9 lineups.
Stefon Diggs NE
Stefon Diggs’ tenure in New England has been defined by inconsistency. Outside of his explosive 146-yard outing against Buffalo in Week 5, he has failed to eclipse 70 yards in six of eight games this season. His target volume has dipped to just five looks per game since Week 6, and his efficiency metrics tell the story: 86th in average depth of target and 58th in air-yard share. With the Patriots spreading targets among several pass-catchers, Diggs has never matched his production in his revenge game against the Bills. Compounding the issue is this week’s matchup against Atlanta, whose defense has allowed the fewest receiving yards and fifth-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers.
Given his declining volume and an extremely stingy opponent, Diggs belongs on the bench in Week 9. Kayshon Boutte’s emergence has further eaten into his opportunities, as the rookie has out-targeted Diggs in two of the last three games. The Falcons’ scheme neutralizes short-area receivers, exactly where Diggs has been operating lately. Without downfield looks or consistent red-zone usage, his ceiling remains capped. Fantasy managers should look elsewhere, as Diggs profiles as a clear sit this week.
Jameson Williams DET
The transition to new offensive coordinator John Morton has not been kind to Jameson Williams. His 15% target share and deep-shot role (27% of targets beyond 20 yards) make him one of the league’s most volatile receivers. While his 17.0 yards per catch speaks to his big-play potential, the lack of consistent involvement has made him a fantasy liability. He has three games with three or fewer targets in his last five outings and was held without a single fantasy point in Week 7. Williams has always been an inconsistent high upside option, but the volatility of his play in 2025 has made him almost impossible to trust this season.
Against a disciplined Vikings defense that has allowed the fourth-fewest yards to perimeter receivers, Williams faces an uphill climb. Minnesota ranks seventh in fewest fantasy points allowed to WRs, and their scheme funnels production away from deep outside routes, exactly where Williams operates on 76% of his snaps. His track record against the Vikings doesn’t help, as he’s scored 9.4 PPR points or fewer in three consecutive meetings. While his speed always offers theoretical upside, his target volume simply doesn’t support starting confidence. Williams remains an exciting but unreliable boom-or-bust play, best left as a sit for Week 9.
Tight Ends to Start
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts continues to be one of the more fascinating stories in fantasy football this season. After years of inconsistency, Pitts has quietly emerged as a reliable option in the Falcons’ offense, ranking second on the team in targets since Week 7. His usage has shifted toward more short and intermediate routes, improving his efficiency and allowing for catch-and-run opportunities that play to his athletic strengths. He’s also been one of the few consistent contributors in an offense that has struggled for rhythm, catching over 80% of his targets while ranking third among tight ends in total receptions. Pitts has also posted three top 12 finishes in his last four games, making him a consistent option.
The Patriots’ defense has shown vulnerability against tight ends, surrendering the fourth-most yards and fifth-most fantasy PPG to the position. Last week, Harold Fannin Jr and David Njoku combined for 10 catches for 99 yards and 2 touchdowns. Pitts’ 20% target share and usage as of late suggest that, in this favorable matchup that he will once again provide a strong TE1 performance in Week 9. Pitts is set up for another productive outing. He’s a firm start in fantasy football this week.
Oronde Gadsden II LAC
Oronde Gadsden II has burst onto the scene as one of the Chargers’ most dynamic playmakers over the past few weeks. Since taking over as the full-time starter in Week 6, Gadsden has become a focal point in the passing game, earning a 17.8% target share and averaging 103 receiving yards per game. He’s also shown an impressive ability to stretch the field, recording 2.94 yards per route run and leading the team in yards after catch (YAC) over the last three contests. Over the past three weeks, he’s scored 59.9 fantasy points, the second-most among all tight ends in that span, while commanding six red zone targets and three deep looks.
The Chargers have relied on him heavily against zone coverage, which the Titans deploy nearly 80% of the time, and he’s rewarded them with consistent separation and elite efficiency. Tennessee’s defense has struggled in this area, ranking sixth in the NFL in YAC. On paper, the Titans are a tough matchup, ranking as one of the best in covering TEs this season and limiting fantasy production. Given his role, efficiency, and consistent scoring output, Gadsden should remain in all starting fantasy football lineups for Week 9
Colston Loveland CHI
Colston Loveland, in Week 8, ran 30 routes and caught three passes for 38 yards while filling in for the injured Cole Kmet. That performance accounted for nearly half of his season’s receiving yardage and highlighted the trust the Bears have in the rookie tight end. His route participation hit a season-high 78% of Caleb Williams’ dropbacks, and his target share jumped to 13.2%, signaling growing involvement in the passing game. Chicago’s offense has battled through multiple receiver injuries, further opening the door for Loveland to become a reliable short-to-intermediate target.
Against a Bengals defense that has struggled to contain tight ends all season, that usage could translate into meaningful fantasy value. The matchup could not be better for Loveland, as Cincinnati has allowed the most yards, touchdowns, and fantasy points to tight ends this season. The Bengals have surrendered 594 yards and 10 touchdowns to the position, giving up an average of 21.7 fantasy points per game. Whether or not Kmet returns, the Bears’ offensive situation likely forces increased looks toward Loveland, especially near the goal line and on third downs. Given the volume trends and elite matchup, Loveland makes a strong start in fantasy football for Week 9.
Tight Ends to Sit
Dalton Kincaid BUF
Dalton Kincaid remains one of the league’s most talented young tight ends, but he faces a difficult test this week. In three career games against the Chiefs, Kincaid has yet to eclipse 50 yards or find the end zone. Kansas City’s defense has been exceptional at limiting the position, allowing the fifth-fewest yards and fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. In his first week back from injury, Kincaid only played 12 snaps and has only averaged a 52.7% route share and 15.3% target rate this season. Kincaid’s production could be capped by matchup and scheme.
Kincaid does see strong target efficiency against two-high coverages, leading the Bills with a 30% target-per-route-run rate in those situations, which the Chiefs love to utilize. However, the Chiefs’ ability to limit yards after the catch and defend the middle of the field makes this a low-upside spot. The only two tight ends to top 10 points against them are Sam LaPorta and Mark Andrews. Despite his TE8 ranking in fantasy points per game, the matchup risk outweighs the upside this week. He’s a recommended sit for Week 9.
Hunter Henry NE
Hunter Henry’s recent production has cooled significantly after a strong start to the season. Since Week 4, he’s averaged just 3.3 targets and 6.8 fantasy points per game, failing to top 40 receiving yards in any contest. His role in the offense remains limited, logging only a 13% target share and one end-zone look during that span. While Henry remains a reliable red-zone presence with eight targets inside the 20 on the year, his week-to-week volume has dipped considerably. The Patriots’ passing attack also struggles to sustain drives, further capping Henry’s fantasy floor and ceiling alike.
This week’s matchup against the Falcons makes him an even riskier play. Atlanta has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game (4.4) to tight ends, giving up just one touchdown to the position all season. No tight end has topped 37 yards against them, and they’ve held elite names like George Kittle to zero catches. Henry’s underlying metrics and usage as of late don’t suggest that he will be able to overcome a tough matchup. With Atlanta’s defense excelling against tight ends and limiting scoring chances, Henry belongs on fantasy benches as a sit in Week 9.
TJ Hockenson MIN
T.J. Hockenson entered the season looking to return to form, but his production has fallen well short of expectations. He has yet to reach 50 yards in a single game and has only one touchdown on the year. Much of that can be attributed to Minnesota’s inconsistent quarterback play, as he averaged just 13.5 yards per game across two starts with J.J. McCarthy earlier in the season. Hockenson still commands a 16.4% target share, but his efficiency has dipped to just 1.13 yards per route run, one of the lowest marks among top-15 tight ends. Despite his involvement in short passing situations, the lack of downfield and red-zone work has made him touchdown-dependent.
Even though the Lions’ defense ranks in the middle of the pack against tight ends, Hockenson doesn’t profile as a trustworthy option this week. Minnesota’s offense has leaned more on quick passes and running backs in the red zone, leaving few scoring opportunities for him. His seven red-zone targets have yet to translate into consistent fantasy production, and with no deep targets all year, his big-play potential is almost nonexistent. While Detroit has allowed the 13th-most yards per game to tight ends, they have a talented group of safeties to match up with tight ends. Until his connection with McCarthy stabilizes, Hockenson remains a sit for Week 9.
DEF to Start
Los Angeles Chargers
Fantasy football managers should be locking in the Chargers’ defense as a start for Week 9. Every defense that’s faced the Titans this season has finished inside the top 10 in fantasy points, with five of those finishing in the top three. Tennessee’s offense has been a goldmine for opposing defenses, ranking second in sack rate and fourth in giveaways. The Chargers are coming off a five-sack performance, and their pass rush has quietly found rhythm with the return of Khalil Mack. Facing a struggling Titans offense that averages the fewest points and total yards per game, this is the perfect setup for a defensive breakout. The matchup couldn’t be better, and the Chargers’ momentum makes them one of the safest and highest-upside defensive starts for Week 9.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams’ defense has been one of the best units in football and looks to build on it this week against the Saints. They rank fourth in sack rate and sixth in pressure rate, showing an ability to make life miserable for opposing quarterbacks. The Saints have struggled mightily to protect their signal-callers, allowing nine sacks and eight turnovers over the last two games. The Rams are coming off a bye week, giving them extra time to prepare for rookie Tyler Shough, who’s making his first start for New Orleans. With dynamic young pass rushers like Byron Young and Jared Verse combining for 12 sacks, Los Angeles is ready to dominate again.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville’s defense is a sneaky strong start in fantasy football this week against the Raiders. Las Vegas has turned the ball over more than any team in the league and has allowed double-digit fantasy points to opposing defenses in four of seven games. The Jaguars’ defense has been up and down, but they’ve shown a high ceiling with three performances of 11 or more points. With an improved pass rush and a secondary that’s already recorded eight interceptions, Jacksonville is primed for another big day. Start the Jaguars’ defense with confidence this week against a struggling Raiders team.
DEF to Sit
Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills
Fantasy football managers should sit both the Chiefs and Bills defenses this week. Whenever these two teams meet, offensive fireworks tend to follow. Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen both have elite track records against one another, and neither defense has found much success slowing the other down. The Bills allow the sixth-fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses, while the Chiefs allow the fifth-fewest, meaning both offenses protect the ball and avoid sacks at a high rate.
This game projects to be one of the highest-scoring of the week, making both defenses poor fantasy starts. Kansas City ranks among the league leaders in offensive efficiency and rarely gives up takeaways, while Buffalo’s balanced offense moves the ball with ease. With a Vegas total over 52.5 points, expect a shootout that minimizes defensive scoring opportunities. Keep both the Chiefs and Bills D/ST units on the bench in Week 9.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Sit the Steelers defense in lineups. Pittsburgh’s defense has been wildly inconsistent, with three double-digit outings and three poor performances of two points or fewer. This week, they draw a difficult matchup against the Colts, who have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses. Indianapolis has one of the most efficient offenses in the league, taking care of the ball and ranking third in lowest sack rate allowed. The Colts’ offense, led by Jonathan Taylor and Daniel Jones, has surrendered just nine sacks and four total turnovers all season. With the Colts playing clean football and putting up points, Pittsburgh’s fantasy ceiling is capped by its struggles. Sit the Steelers defense this week and look elsewhere for a more favorable fantasy matchup.
Kickers to Start
Jason Myers SEA
Jason Myers is an excellent start for Week 9 fantasy lineups. He’s averaged nearly 10 fantasy points per game this season, with only one outing under eight points. Myers has been one of the most consistent kickers in football, hitting 12-of-14 field goals and all 18 extra points. He’s also shown range, converting three kicks from 50 yards or longer. Against the Commanders, who have allowed at least eight points to five different kickers, Myers is poised for another strong performance. Washington’s defense has allowed opponents to attempt over two field goals per game, creating a perfect environment for Myers to thrive. With top-five potential, he’s a must-start fantasy kicker in Week 9.
Brandon McManus GB
Brandon McManus is an underrated start in fantasy football this week as the Packers face the Panthers at home. Carolina has allowed at least two field goals in three straight games and ranks second in most fantasy points allowed to kickers. McManus remains one of the league’s more reliable kickers with an 82% career average. Green Bay’s offense should provide plenty of scoring chances as 6.5-point favorites in a game with a projected 45-point total. With 3-4 field goal attempts possible in a favorable home matchup, he’s a top-10 fantasy kicker candidate. Don’t let him sit on the waiver wire; he’s a great start this week.
Kickers to Sit
Harrison Butker KC
Sit Harrison Butker in fantasy football for Week 9. Butker has struggled lately, failing to top seven fantasy points in each of his last four games. The matchup doesn’t get easier, as the Bills have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing kickers this season. Buffalo’s defense has kept opposing kickers under six points in four of eight games and limits opportunities by forcing red-zone stops. Kansas City’s offense has also limited Butker’s ceiling, converting over 60% of red-zone drives into touchdowns, leaving few chances for field goals. Keep him on the bench this week and explore streaming alternatives with higher volume potential.
Wil Lutz DEN
Wil Lutz should be a sit in all fantasy football leagues this week. While he’s scored nine fantasy points in three of his last four games, the matchup against Houston is brutal. The Texans have held opposing kickers to five or fewer fantasy points in all but one game this season, and have allowed just kickers to score 6.2 PPG this season. Lutz’s opportunities could be extremely limited with Denver’s offense struggling to sustain drives against a stout Texans defense. With Denver projected to score under 20 points as road underdogs, Lutz is an easy sit for Week 9 fantasy lineups.
