The latest week in the NFL brings another influx of fantasy football speculation. As managers dive into the intricacies of player performance, finding the right additions for upcoming games becomes paramount. This week, The Athletic’s fantasy football columnist offers insights and tips to navigate the crowded free-agent landscape, particularly as we approach Week 5.
For quarterbacks, Geno Smith stands out as a potential top-7 QB pick given his significant volume and ability to complete deep throws. With promising performances, Smith offers a glimmer of hope for managers tussling with replacement quarterbacks. Meanwhile, New Orleans’ Spencer Rattler may also be worth a look, as the Saints’ offensive capabilities might yield some top-10 finishes, especially with upcoming matchups against some of the weaker pass defenses.
Running backs remain a crucial focus, especially following James Conner’s injury, which left fantasy managers scrambling. Despite Trey Benson being a popular choice, Emari Demercado from Arizona presents another viable option. Known for his efficiency, Demercado could secure a substantial role in the passing offense. Fantasy players are urged to look for players who demonstrate high touch rates and fantasy points per snap for quality additions.
Wide receiver speculations hinge on earning targets, emphasizing the importance of skill level. Jacksonville’s Parker Washington appears as an attractive option for managers seeking an under-the-radar player poised for increased utilization due to recent injuries to his teammates.
Tight ends, always a challenging roster spot to fill, see potential with Tennessee’s Chig Okonkwo. His consistent route running and improvements suggest that he could become a key component in the Titans’ offensive strategies.
With bye weeks upon us, keeping an eye on player rosters and emerging patterns in the NFL will be essential for fantasy success. The coming weeks promise intriguing developments in fantasy football, as managers juggle lineups to adapt to injuries and upcoming game schedules.