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 continues to impress since taking over as the Giants’ starter, showing growth both as a passer and runner. Despite missing Malik Nabers (knee), Dart has been efficient with the weapons available, spreading the ball well between Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Theo Johnson. He’s topped 19 fantasy football points in five of his six starts, never dipping below 15.6, and his dual-threat ability has made him one of the most consistent fantasy quarterbacks in recent weeks. Dart’s rushing production is particularly valuable; he’s logged at least 55 rushing yards or a touchdown in every game, including four straight with a score. His combination of mobility, accuracy, and aggressiveness gives him a solid floor and high ceiling.
This week’s matchup makes Dart a strong fantasy football start. The Bears have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks, and four signal-callers have already topped 24 points against them this year. Dart ranks fourth in fantasy points per dropback, averaging 41.8 rushing yards and 8.2 attempts per game, which further boosts his weekly upside. Since Week 5, Chicago has allowed the third-highest yards per attempt and the fifth-most passing yards per game, making this an ideal spot for a quarterback who thrives both through the air and on the ground. Start Dart with confidence in all formats; he has legitimate top-five potential this week.
Jared Goff DET
Jared Goff has been solid for fantasy managers this season, particularly in recent weeks on the road, something that has historically been a weakness for him. He’s scored at least 16.8 fantasy football points in two straight road games against the Bengals and Chiefs, proving he can deliver outside of Detroit. Despite constant defensive pressure last week, Goff still managed 19.4 points. He continues to rank among the league’s most accurate passers, sitting fifth in both catchable target rate and completion percentage over expected. When kept clean, Goff has been surgical, using his timing and rhythm passing to exploit defensive gaps. With the weapons that Goff has at his disposal, the Lions’ passing game is well-positioned for another strong outing.
The matchup against the Commanders makes Goff a smart start. Washington has allowed the third-most fantasy points to quarterbacks and is dealing with a banged-up secondary. Three straight opposing quarterbacks have topped 28.9 points against them, and since Week 5, they’ve surrendered the most yards per attempt and the second-most passing touchdowns in the league. Goff ranks eighth in yards per attempt and 11th in highly accurate throw rate, numbers that line up perfectly against a defense that gives up big plays through the air. He’s a high-end QB1 option this week and should be confidently started in all fantasy leagues.
Matthew Stafford LAR
Matthew Stafford is playing his best football of the season and enters Week 10 on a major hot streak. The veteran has been on fire, topping 25.6 fantasy points in four of his last five games, including a 25.6-point outing the last time he faced the 49ers. Stafford’s arm talent has been on full display, as he ranks first in both passing touchdowns and hero throw rate, demonstrating elite accuracy on tight-window throws. His connection with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams forms the most dangerous trio in the NFL, and both receivers are expected to be healthy for this divisional rematch. Stafford’s recent surge has vaulted him into QB1 territory in fantasy football leagues.
This week’s matchup only reinforces his status as a fantasy start. The 49ers’ defense has been vulnerable through the air, allowing four of the last five opposing quarterbacks to score at least 17 fantasy points. Since Week 5, San Francisco has given up the fourth-most passing yards per game and the fifth-most passing touchdowns. Stafford ranks second in passing yards per game and ninth in yards per attempt, meaning he’s primed to exploit a defense that struggles to contain high-volume passers. With the Rams offense firing on all cylinders, Stafford should be started with confidence in all fantasy football formats this week.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Justin Fields NYJ
Justin Fields enters Week 10 coming off a strong showing against the Bengals, where he posted 20.9 fantasy points, but that production came against one of the league’s softer pass defenses. Over his past three games, Fields has totaled just 335 passing yards with one touchdown, averaging 9.9 fantasy points per contest. His rushing ability remains his saving grace; he’s run for 84 yards on 22 carries over that stretch, but his overall efficiency as a passer continues to lag. Fields faces a brutal matchup this week against the Browns, one of the toughest defenses for fantasy quarterbacks. Cleveland has limited all but three passers under 15 points this season.
In fantasy football, this matchup screams “sit.” No quarterback has thrown for over 300 yards against the Browns this year, and they’ve allowed just one touchdown to tight ends and minimal scoring to wide receivers. Cleveland’s defensive front, anchored by Myles Garrett, ranks among the league leaders in pressure rate, which spells trouble for a Jets offensive line that has struggled in protection. Fields has been held under 5 fantasy points in three of his past six outings, and this week should be no different. Unless you’re in a Superflex or two-quarterback league, Fields belongs on the bench in Week 10.
Jordan Love GB
Jordan Love’s fantasy value has cooled off after a sluggish Week 9 showing against Carolina, where he posted only nine points. While Love’s per-dropback efficiency remains impressive, ranking eighth in yards per attempt and seventh in passer rating, the lack of passing volume in Green Bay’s offense continues to limit his upside. He’s topped 15 fantasy points just once in his last four games, and now faces one of his toughest matchups yet against the Philadelphia Eagles. The recent loss of tight end Tucker Kraft further diminishes Love’s red-zone stability, putting even more pressure on his wide receivers to create after the catch.
The Eagles’ defense, bolstered by midseason additions like Jaelen Phillips and Michael Carter II, has become a dangerous unit to throw against. Since Week 5, Philadelphia has allowed the second-fewest passing touchdowns and the seventh-lowest adjusted completion rate to opposing quarterbacks. Love’s accuracy metrics and intermediate passing prowess are solid, but the Eagles’ pass rush and secondary depth make this a difficult environment for him to produce QB1 numbers. Fantasy managers should sit Love this week unless they’re desperate in deeper formats. He’s more of a low-end QB2 play in a game that could limit his scoring opportunities.
Trevor Lawrence JAC
Trevor Lawrence has shown flashes of strong play over the past month, posting four straight games with at least 17.6 fantasy football points. However, his efficiency remains inconsistent, ranking 30th in yards per attempt and 32nd in highly accurate throw rate among qualifying quarterbacks. Lawrence’s production has been buoyed by rushing touchdowns in two of his best games, which are difficult to rely on for fantasy purposes for a guy who is not known to run much. Even with new additions like Jakobi Meyers helping fill the void left by Travis Hunter, this week’s matchup is a daunting one. The Texans have been elite against the pass, holding opposing quarterbacks to minimal production all year.
For Week 10, Lawrence is a clear sit. Houston ranks first in fewest fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks and has surrendered the lowest success rate per dropback since Week 5. They’ve also allowed the fewest passing yards per game and the fourth-fewest yards per attempt during that span, smothering even the league’s most efficient passers. Lawrence’s track record against Houston doesn’t inspire confidence either; he’s averaged just 215 yards per game with five total touchdowns and four interceptions in his last five meetings. With better streaming options available, fantasy managers should look elsewhere this week.
Running Backs to Start
Jaylen Warren PIT
Jaylen Warren has quietly been one of the most consistent and efficient backs in football this season. He currently ranks as the RB17 in fantasy points per game while commanding the 22nd-highest snap share and 21st-highest opportunity share among running backs. His ability to create after contact has set him apart, ranking ninth in missed tackle rate and 14th in yards after contact per attempt among 62 qualifying backs. Over his last three games, Warren has taken on 79 percent of the team’s carries and seen every goal-line opportunity, a clear indication that the Steelers trust him in critical situations. His workload has translated into steady fantasy production, topping 13 fantasy points in five of seven games while averaging 17.1 touches and 85.3 total yards.
This week, Warren draws a dream matchup against the Chargers, who have been shredded by opposing running backs. Since Week 5, Los Angeles has allowed the second-highest explosive run rate, the fourth-most yards before contact per attempt, and the third-most yards after contact per carry. They’ve also struggled to stop big plays on the ground, allowing 4.9 yards per carry and ranking 11th-lowest in stuff rate. Warren’s combination of power and burst matches up perfectly against this defense’s weaknesses. His volume, goal-line work, and favorable matchup make him an easy start in all fantasy formats for Week 10.
David Montgomery DET
David Montgomery remains a crucial part of Detroit’s offensive identity, even if the fantasy production has not matched that so far this year. The Lions have leaned heavily on their run game this season, ranking second in rushing rate league-wide. Montgomery has seen consistent usage, recording at least 11 carries in six of his eight games, totaling over 500 yards and five touchdowns. His rugged running style and ability to grind between the tackles have helped keep drives alive and wear down defenses. He’s also handled seven of Detroit’s nine goal-line attempts, maintaining his status as the team’s preferred red zone option.
In Week 10, Montgomery faces a Commanders defense that has completely fallen apart, especially after losing several key players, including Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin. Washington’s front seven has been worn down in recent weeks, allowing consistent chunk plays on the ground and struggling to close out drives. Detroit’s offense should find itself in scoring position often, setting Montgomery up for multiple goal-line opportunities. While Jahmyr Gibbs will have a bigger workload, Montgomery’s touchdown potential and volume make him a strong fantasy start this week in what could be a blowout win.
Kyle Monangai CHI
Kyle Monangai is coming off a breakout performance against the Bengals, where he totaled 198 scrimmage yards on 29 touches and finished as the RB3 on the week. The rookie’s physical running style and burst through contact have become key components of Chicago’s offense, especially with D’Andre Swift nursing a groin injury. Monangai has made the most of his chances, producing over 17 fantasy points in both games where he’s received double-digit carries. His vision and ability to stay upright through arm tackles have been major assets, giving Chicago an efficient and reliable ground presence. Even with Swift potentially returning, Monangai has earned a meaningful role in this offense moving forward.
The Bears now face the Giants, a team that has been gashed on the ground all season long. New York has allowed the second-most rushing yards and fantasy points per game to opposing backs, while also surrendering explosive runs at the highest rate in the NFL. Whether Swift plays or not, the Bears should find success on the ground behind an improving offensive line. Monangai’s combination of efficiency, recent production, and matchup makes him a strong start in Week 10, with RB2 upside if Swift remains sidelined.
Running Backs to Sit
Rachaad White TB
Rachaad White’s workload has been strong, but his efficiency continues to be a concern for fantasy managers. Since taking over as the lead back in Week 5, he’s averaged 16.8 touches for 65.6 total yards per game while ranking just 1.3% in explosive run rate and 1.70 yards after contact per attempt. White’s volume has kept him afloat, but Tampa Bay’s offensive line struggles have capped his upside. In recent weeks, his snap share has begun to slip slightly, with Sean Tucker carving out additional touches before the team’s bye. With limited breakaway potential and declining efficiency, White will need heavy volume or touchdowns to produce.
Unfortunately, the matchup this week could not be worse. The Patriots have been elite against the run, allowing just 3.1 yards per carry, two rushing touchdowns, and the fewest rushing yards per game to running backs. They also rank among the league’s best in limiting yards before and after contact and have given up the fewest explosive runs in football. White has been held under nine fantasy points in back-to-back games and now faces an opponent that neutralizes everything he does well. Even if White catches a few passes, White is a risky fantasy start in Week 10 and should be benched if you have a viable alternative.
Travis Etienne JAC
Travis Etienne continues to be heavily involved in Jacksonville’s offense, ranking 12th in snap share and eighth in red zone touches among running backs. He’s averaging 17.3 touches and nearly 89 total yards per game, serving as a steady source of volume for fantasy managers. However, his efficiency has taken a step back in recent weeks, as he ranks outside the top 20 in explosive run rate and missed tackle rate. Etienne remains a dynamic weapon, but he’s been held under 10 fantasy points in three of his last four games despite significant workloads. The Jaguars continue to split goal-line opportunities with rookie Bhayshul Tuten, further limiting Etienne’s touchdown potential.
The challenge doesn’t get any easier this week against Houston. The Texans have been elite versus the run since Week 5, ranking second in fewest rushing yards allowed per game, third in lowest missed tackle rate, and top 10 in yards after contact allowed. Only one back all season has finished as a top-10 fantasy performer against them. Etienne has also struggled historically in this matchup, scoring fewer than nine points in two of his last three games against Houston and just two touchdowns in seven career meetings. He’s not a must-sit given his usage, but in a week loaded with tough matchups, Etienne is a risky play best avoided if you have a safer option.
Tyrone Tracy Jr NYG
Tyrone Tracy Jr. entered last week’s matchup with optimism, stepping into an expanded role with Cam Skattebo sidelined. However, it was Devin Singletary who outperformed him, logging more snaps and touches while providing more overall efficiency. Tracy managed just eight touches for 37 total yards despite a 44.6% snap share, and his per-touch numbers have been disappointing all season. He’s averaged just 2.08 yards after contact per attempt and has broken very few tackles, suggesting limited upside even in a favorable game script. With the Giants seemingly committed to a committee approach, Tracy’s role remains uncertain heading into Week 10.
Now facing the Bears, Tracy’s fantasy outlook doesn’t inspire much confidence. Chicago’s defense has quietly turned into one of the league’s best against the run, allowing the 11th-fewest rushing yards per game since Week 5. They’ve also been elite in limiting yards after contact and forcing negative plays, ranking first in yards after contact allowed and top 10 in missed tackle rate. Unless Singletary takes a back seat unexpectedly, Tracy’s limited role and lack of explosive production make him an easy sit in Week 10. Even with volume, the efficiency concerns and a tough matchup make him difficult to trust in fantasy lineups.. Even with volume, the efficiency concerns and tough matchup make him difficult to trust in fantasy lineups.
Wide Receivers to Start
Rome Odunze CHI
After a frustrating Week 9 where Rome Odunze posted a goose egg on just three targets, fantasy managers might be hesitant to go back to him. However, the context behind his slump tells a fuller story. Odunze has seen inconsistent volume lately, but he remains a central figure in Chicago’s passing attack, ranking top 20 in fantasy points per game among wide receivers. He owns a 21.7% target share and leads the team in deep targets while maintaining strong underlying efficiency with 1.86 yards per route run. He’s second on the Bears in red zone targets and continues to command a meaningful first-read share from Caleb Williams. The metrics show that when Williams has time, Odunze is his most trusted downfield threat.
This week, Odunze draws a New York Giants defense that has been shredded by perimeter receivers. The Giants have allowed the seventh-most fantasy PPG to wideouts, including the fourth-most receiving yards to those lined up outside, where Odunze runs roughly 60% of his routes. They also rank third-worst in yards allowed on deep passes, exactly the kind of plays Odunze thrives on. This matchup sets up as a prime rebound opportunity after last week’s dud, making Odunze a recommended start in all fantasy formats for Week 10.
Khalil Shakir BUF
Khalil Shakir has become one of the most consistent contributors in Buffalo’s offense, quietly providing steady PPR production. Over his last four games, he’s seen seven or more targets in three of them and has topped 11 fantasy points in six of eight overall. He’s also maintained impressive efficiency metrics with 2.06 yards per route run and nearly 50 receiving yards per game, ranking inside the top-40 in fantasy points per game at his position. Shakir’s reliability in the short and intermediate passing game has made him a favorite safety valve for Josh Allen, and his red zone role (a team-leading eight targets) only strengthens his floor. His chemistry with Allen continues to build, especially when facing zone-heavy defenses.
This week’s matchup against Miami might seem tricky at first glance, but the Dolphins’ coverage tendencies play into Shakir’s strengths. The Dolphins have also allowed the tenth-most PPR points per target and the seventh-highest passer rating to slot receivers since Week 5. With Shakir operating primarily from the slot, he’s well-positioned to exploit that weakness. He posted 14.5 points with a touchdown in the previous meeting between these teams, and another strong showing is in play. Fantasy managers should confidently start Shakir as a reliable WR3 or flex option in Week 10.
Wan’Dale Robinson NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson has quietly emerged as a go-to weapon in New York’s short passing game. Since Jaxson Dart took over at quarterback, Robinson has logged three top-36 fantasy finishes and a 24.9% target share. His involvement is consistent, with at least seven targets in four of his last five outings and double-digit looks in two of the last three. Over that stretch, he’s averaged 52.8 receiving yards per game and has been heavily featured as the first read on over a quarter of Dart’s attempts. Robinson’s combination of quickness and reliability in tight spaces makes him an easy outlet, especially when facing zone coverage. His usage and slot alignment have become cornerstones of the Giants’ offensive rhythm.
Now, Robinson gets an appealing matchup against a Chicago defense that has been highly vulnerable to slot production. Since Week 5, the Bears have surrendered the third-most PPR points per target to slot receivers and the second-most touchdowns to all wideouts. Robinson runs 60% of his routes from the slot, positioning him perfectly to capitalize on Chicago’s coverage issues. He’s seen 11 or more targets in two of his last three and scored at least 13 fantasy points in three of his last four, showing a stable combination of volume and efficiency. With the Bears ranking near the bottom of the league in touchdowns allowed to inside receivers, Robinson profiles as a strong start and potential WR2 in Week 10.
Wide Receivers to Sit
DK Metcalf PIT
DK Metcalf’s season has been defined by flashes of dominance followed by frustrating inconsistency. He’s been held under 60 yards in three of his last four games, including a season-low two catches for six yards against Indianapolis in Week 9. His role remains significant in Pittsburgh’s passing structure; he holds a 19.6% target share and leads the team in both red zone and deep targets, but the results have failed to follow. His 2.06 yards per route run shows he’s still efficient when given opportunities, but the volume has been erratic, with just 5.9 targets per game.
The Chargers have made life miserable for opposing wideouts, allowing the third-fewest fantasy points to the position and just one touchdown to outside receivers all season. That’s troubling, considering Metcalf runs 85% of his routes out wide and depends heavily on red zone scoring to buoy his fantasy value. He’s been held to single digits in two of his last three games and hasn’t surpassed 12 points without finding the end zone. With Los Angeles ranking top-10 in fewest yards allowed to perimeter receivers, this is a matchup where the floor and ceiling both look capped. Fantasy managers should consider sitting Metcalf this week unless desperate for a WR3 option.
Jordan Addison MIN
Jordan Addison’s production has cooled significantly after a hot start, as he’s been limited to four targets and fewer than 50 yards in each of his last two outings. The change under center hasn’t helped. Since J.J. McCarthy took over, the Vikings’ passing volume has dropped noticeably, with the rookie quarterback yet to surpass 25 attempts in any start. Addison remains a big-play threat, leading the team in deep targets last week with three, but his overall target share has dipped to 16%. His efficiency has also fallen off against single-high coverage, where his yards per route run has dropped to just 1.49. Without consistent volume or rhythm with McCarthy, Addison’s weekly floor has become unstable.
Although the Ravens have allowed the eighth-most receiving yards to perimeter receivers since Week 5, their recent defensive form suggests caution. Baltimore has not allowed a receiver to score a touchdown in three straight games and continues to rank near the top of the league in limiting big plays. Addison’s role as a perimeter receiver (where Baltimore is strongest), combined with his declining target share, makes this a matchup to avoid. He’s been a non-factor in three of his last four and hasn’t found the end zone since Week 6. Until McCarthy proves he can sustain a pass-heavy game plan, Addison should remain on fantasy benches for Week 10.
Chris Olave NO
Chris Olave continues to operate as the primary target in New Orleans, though his fantasy results have fluctuated with quarterback play. He’s averaged over 62 receiving yards per game and holds a commanding 26.3% target share with a 30.3% first-read rate, showing that the passing game still funnels through him. His downfield involvement remains strong, with 15 deep targets and eight red zone looks, but the inconsistency of rookie quarterback Tyler Shough has capped his upside with his low average depth of target. With Rashid Shaheed traded to Seattle, Olave could see even heavier defensive attention moving forward. The underlying usage is elite, but the connection with Shough has yet to fully click, as evidenced by his four-target outing last week.
This week, Olave’s matchup against Carolina is a concerning one for fantasy managers. The Panthers have allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy PPG to wide receivers and have held opponents under 200 passing yards in three of their last four contests. Olave has been limited to 60 yards or fewer in four of his last five and failed to reach double-digit fantasy points in two straight games. Without Shaheed drawing coverage away, he’s likely to face bracket coverage on most snaps. With the Saints’ offense scoring just 10 points in Shough’s debut and Carolina’s defense playing disciplined perimeter coverage, Olave profiles as a sit candidate for Week 10.
Tight Ends to Start
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts continues to command a strong role in Atlanta’s passing game, leading the team in targets over the last three weeks while averaging nearly nine per contest. His involvement has remained consistent regardless of game script, and he’s proven capable of handling volume with only one game under seven fantasy points this season. Pitts has maintained steady efficiency with 1.49 yards per route run and over 47 receiving yards per game, showcasing his improved role this year. Against an opponent like Indianapolis, this could turn into another high-volume passing scenario for the Falcons, who may find themselves chasing points through the air.
This matchup gives Pitts a real opportunity to deliver another strong fantasy outing. The Colts have been among the most generous defenses to tight ends, ranking third in fantasy points allowed per game while also giving up the second-most catches and yards to the position. Pitts’ consistent 20% target share and deep involvement in the offense make him one of the most reliable options at tight end right now. With Atlanta likely to throw often in a game that could feature plenty of offensive movement, Pitts should be started confidently in Week 10 lineups as a top-tier TE1 play.
Dalton Schultz HOU
Dalton Schultz has continued to be a steady contributor in Houston’s offense, posting eight or more fantasy points in four of his last five games. His recent performances include an eight-target, 77-yard outing that highlighted both his reliability and chemistry with the Texans’ passing attack despite the tough matchup against Denver. Schultz has averaged 48.1 yards per game while maintaining a healthy 17% target share and 1.75 yards per route run, showing that his involvement isn’t dependent on a specific quarterback. The tight end’s short-to-intermediate route tree has kept him heavily involved in drives and third-down situations, and he’s been particularly effective at finding open space in coverage. His volume and usage trends make him one of the most stable weekly options at the position.
That steadiness makes Schultz a smart start this week despite Houston being without C.J. Stroud. Backup Davis Mills has already shown a willingness to target Schultz heavily, and Jacksonville’s defense has proven extremely vulnerable to tight ends. The Jaguars have allowed the second-most receiving yards and fantasy points to the position, giving up double-digit performances in five straight contests. With Schultz already seeing consistent red zone involvement and facing a defense that struggles to contain tight ends, he profiles as one of the safest streaming starts for Week 10.
Theo Johnson NYG
Theo Johnson’s emergence in the Giants’ offense has been one of the more underappreciated storylines of the season. Since Week 4, he’s held an 18.6% target share while averaging over 30 receiving yards per game, becoming a dependable option over the middle of the field. His presence has been most noticeable in the red zone, where he’s accumulated six targets and converted five for touchdowns in his last six outings. Johnson’s physicality and improving route consistency have earned him more snaps and first-read looks, currently sitting at a 21.2% rate. He’s become a legitimate part of New York’s offensive identity, seeing more targets than all but one Giants receiver since Week 6.
For fantasy football managers searching for upside, Johnson deserves serious start consideration this week. Chicago’s defense has been generous through the air, allowing solid production to opposing pass-catchers in recent weeks. While the Bears sit middle of the pack in tight end coverage metrics, the expected back-and-forth nature of this game should provide plenty of opportunities. Given his red zone usage and role as a safety valve for this offense, Johnson projects as a quality streaming start capable of producing another double-digit fantasy performance in Week 10.
Tight Ends to Sit
Luke Musgrave GB
With Tucker Kraft sidelined for the season, Luke Musgrave steps into a full-time role in the Packers’ offense, but his fantasy football outlook remains uncertain. Musgrave’s route participation has been modest at just 23%, and his 16% target-per-route-run rate suggests limited volume even when he’s on the field. Despite flashes of potential, his production has been sporadic, as he’s yet to show consistency as a pass-catching threat in Green Bay’s offense. The Packers leaned more on their wide receivers and running backs in recent weeks after Tucker Kraft went down. Facing a disciplined defense that rarely gives up big plays to tight ends only compounds the concern.
This isn’t the week to start Musgrave, especially with Philadelphia on deck. The Eagles have allowed the third-fewest receiving yards and fantasy points per game to tight ends, surrendering only one touchdown to the position all year. Musgrave may eventually carve out fantasy value in his expanded role, but there are better streaming options available in Week 10. Given his limited usage and difficult matchup, he belongs firmly on your bench until the Packers show more willingness to feature him in the passing game.
Zach Ertz WAS
Zach Ertz’s Hall of Fame-caliber career speaks for itself, but the current state of Washington’s offense has made him a difficult player to trust. With Marcus Mariota starting in place of the injured Jayden Daniels, Ertz has seen a drop in both volume and efficiency. He has scored fewer than seven fantasy points in each of his last three games with Mariota and has struggled to find a consistent rhythm in the passing attack. Detroit’s defense, meanwhile, continues to perform at a high level, holding opposing tight ends to minimal production while limiting red zone looks. Despite his experience and reliable hands, Ertz’s opportunities have been few and far between in this new-look offense.
Fantasy football managers should sit Ertz this week, given the matchup and offensive circumstances. Detroit has allowed the seventh-fewest fantasy points to tight ends over the last month and only one touchdown in that span. The Lions’ heavy use of single-high coverage schemes has also given Ertz trouble historically, reducing his efficiency and limiting his yards per route run. With better streaming options available in similar production tiers, Ertz is not worth the risk in Week 10 lineups.
TJ Hockenson MIN
T.J. Hockenson’s name still holds a ton of value, but his recent numbers paint a concerning picture. Since J.J. McCarthy took over at quarterback, Hockenson has averaged just three targets per game, totaling only 13 receiving yards per contest and one touchdown in that span. His 0.62 yards per route run marks a steep decline from his usual efficiency, and he hasn’t topped 50 yards in a single outing this season. The Vikings’ offensive flow has shifted heavily toward short passes and running back involvement, leaving Hockenson underutilized compared to previous years. While his name value remains strong, the recent production does not match it.
That lack of consistency makes Hockenson a fantasy football sit this week against Baltimore. The Ravens have allowed the tenth-fewest schedule-adjusted fantasy points to tight ends and have surrendered just two touchdowns to the position all season. Even though the matchup isn’t impossible, it’s difficult to rely on touchdown dependency alone to justify starting him. Unless Minnesota dramatically changes its offensive balance, Hockenson is best left on the bench until his target share rebounds to early-season levels.
DEF to Start
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland’s defense enters Week 10 rested and ready after a bye, and the timing couldn’t be better for a matchup against a struggling Jets offense. The Browns have produced 10 sacks, four interceptions, and two fumble recoveries over their past two games, showcasing their elite pass rush anchored by Myles Garrett. Meanwhile, the Jets have given up the fourth-most sacks in the NFL and have been held to 11 or fewer points in two of their last three contests. This combination of pressure and offensive inefficiency sets up perfectly for Cleveland’s defense to capitalize. With the Jets ranking near the bottom in both total yards and points per drive, the Browns are positioned to deliver one of the top fantasy football defensive performances of the week.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills’ defense has been an inconsistent fantasy option this season, but the matchup against Miami puts them firmly back in play. Buffalo ranks second in the NFL in sack rate and has a history of playing the Dolphins tough. Miami has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing defenses, and the turnover issues have piled up with the Dolphins committing more giveaways than any other team in the league. There’s also growing concern that Tua Tagovailoa could be benched if struggles continue, potentially giving the Bills a chance to face a reserve quarterback. Given Buffalo’s ability to pressure the passer and create turnovers, they’re a prime streaming option this week.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers’ defense has quietly been better on the field than in fantasy football, but Week 10 offers a prime opportunity to change that. Carolina faces the Saints, who are starting rookie quarterback Tyler Shough after a rough debut that included a sack, an interception, and a fumble lost. New Orleans has struggled mightily on offense this season, averaging just 15.3 points per game, the second-fewest in the league, while also giving up the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing defenses. The Saints’ offensive line has been leaky, allowing 21 sacks and failing to protect the quarterback against even average pass rushes. The Panthers have shown they can create pressure, and if they can force a few turnovers, this could be one of their best fantasy outings of the year.
DEF to Sit
Green Bay Packers
The Packers defense has flashed at times this season, but continues to disappoint from a fantasy football standpoint, with only one game exceeding eight points. A matchup against the high-powered Philadelphia Eagles makes things even worse. The Eagles have given up the 10th-fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses while committing the fewest turnovers in the league. Philadelphia also averages over 26 points per game and has scored 28 or more in four of its last six contests. Green Bay’s defensive production has been declining, allowing 23 or more points in two of its last three games. The Packers’ defense belongs firmly on fantasy benches in Week 10.
Atlanta Falcons
While the Falcons’ defense has shown flashes this season, this week’s matchup with the Indianapolis Colts is one to avoid. The Colts lead the league in scoring at 32.2 points per game and have given up the fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses. Indianapolis protects its quarterback well, taking sacks at the sixth-lowest rate while limiting turnovers and maintaining offensive balance. Atlanta’s defense has been inconsistent, posting single-digit fantasy outings in two of its last three games, and it lacks the explosiveness needed to offset a poor matchup. With that in mind, fantasy managers should sit the Falcons and look elsewhere for a defensive play in Week 10.
Kickers to Start
Jason Myers SEA
Jason Myers has been one of the most reliable kickers in fantasy football this season, scoring nine or more fantasy points in five of his last six games. In his first matchup against the Cardinals, he connected on three of four field goals, including one from 50-plus yards, while adding two extra points for a 13-point fantasy outing. Arizona’s defense continues to give up scoring chances, allowing four kickers to top 11 points since Week 3 and multiple field goals in nearly every game. Seattle’s offense has been effective at moving the ball, but often stalls in scoring range, creating perfect conditions for Myers to thrive. His consistency, leg strength, and favorable matchup combine to make him a top-five kicker option for Week 10 fantasy lineups.
Cairo Santos CHI
Cairo Santos has been consistent for the Bears, providing a steady source of fantasy football production week after week. Over the last five games, Chicago’s kickers have combined for 68 points, and Santos himself has scored in double digits multiple times during that span. The Bears’ offense has improved in moving the ball but continues to stall near the red zone, giving Santos frequent field-goal opportunities. He’s 11-for-14 on the season and perfect on extra points, providing both reliability and volume. Facing a Giants defense that has allowed over 10 fantasy points per game to opposing kickers, Santos is set up for another strong outing in Week 10.
Kickers to Sit
Cam Little JAC
Cam Little made headlines in Week 9 with a record-breaking 68-yard field goal, but fantasy football managers should temper expectations this week. Before that performance, Little hadn’t made a field goal since Week 5, and now he faces a Texans defense that has stifled opposing kickers all season. Houston has allowed the fewest fantasy points to the position, surrendering just five total field goals all year and holding all but one kicker to five or fewer fantasy points. Their bend-but-don’t-break defense limits long field-goal attempts, drastically reducing scoring opportunities. While Little’s leg strength is undeniable, his inconsistency and the poor matchup make him a clear sit candidate in Week 10.
Joshua Karty LAR
Joshua Karty has been a fantasy non-factor in recent weeks, scoring five or fewer points in four straight games. The Rams’ offense has been converting drives into touchdowns, which limits Karty’s field-goal chances, and his accuracy has been shaky at just 10-for-15 on the season. Adding to the uncertainty, Los Angeles brought in Harrison Mevis to compete for the starting job, raising the possibility of reduced opportunities or even a split role. Facing the 49ers only makes things worse. San Francisco has allowed fewer than seven fantasy points per game to opposing kickers and rarely gives up long attempts. With poor form, job insecurity, and a tough matchup all working against him, Karty should remain on the waiver wire this week.
