Week 3 Start Sit: Your Fantasy Football Guide
Hey guys! Welcome to Week 3 of the NFL season and your fantasy football journey. It's that crucial time where the initial excitement meets the reality of matchups, injuries, and underperforming players. Navigating the start 'em, sit 'em decisions can be the difference between a dominant victory and a frustrating loss. So, let's dive into some players you should consider starting or sitting in Week 3 to boost your chances of winning your fantasy matchup.
Quarterbacks: Who to Start and Who to Sit
Quarterback is the engine of any fantasy team, and making the right call here can set the tone for your entire week. The quarterback position requires careful consideration each week. Let’s break down some key players and discuss who to get in your lineup, and who to keep on the bench.
Start
- Jared Goff (Detroit Lions): Goff and the Lions offense are looking fantastic this year. With a solid connection with his receivers and a favorable matchup, Goff is poised for a big week. His ability to make accurate throws and capitalize on scoring opportunities makes him a reliable fantasy option. The Lions' offensive scheme is designed to maximize Goff's strengths, and he's showing great chemistry with his receiving corps. Expect him to exploit defensive weaknesses and deliver a strong performance for your fantasy team. Goff's recent performances have been impressive, showcasing his growth as a quarterback and his fit within the Lions' system. With a high ceiling and a consistent floor, Goff is a strong start in Week 3.
- Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars): Lawrence has the potential to be a top-tier fantasy QB this week. His dual-threat ability gives him a high ceiling, especially against a defense that struggles against mobile quarterbacks. Lawrence’s athleticism and arm talent make him a dynamic player who can rack up points through both passing and rushing yards. His connection with his receivers is improving, and he’s becoming more comfortable making plays under pressure. The Jaguars' offense is built around Lawrence’s strengths, and he’s poised to have a breakout season. If you have Lawrence on your roster, this is the week to unleash him and watch him perform. Keep an eye on how he develops over the coming weeks, as he has the potential to be a league-winning quarterback. Start Lawrence with confidence, as he could be a game-changer for your fantasy squad.
- Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love has exceeded expectations and is showing great promise as the Packers' new signal-caller. His poise in the pocket and ability to make smart decisions make him a solid start this week. Love’s arm strength and accuracy are evident, and he’s developing a strong rapport with his receivers. The Packers' coaching staff is committed to building the offense around his strengths, and he’s proving to be a quick learner. This week’s matchup presents a favorable opportunity for Love to continue his impressive start to the season. If you’re looking for a reliable quarterback with upside, Love is an excellent choice. Watch for him to deliver another strong performance and solidify his place as a fantasy-relevant quarterback.
Sit
- Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos): Wilson has struggled to find his rhythm in the new Broncos' offense. The offensive line issues and lack of a consistent running game limit his upside, making him a risky start. Wilson's connection with his receivers seems off, and the Broncos' offensive play-calling hasn't played to his strengths. The defense has been struggling, putting additional pressure on Wilson to perform. Unless there’s a significant turnaround in the Broncos' offensive strategy, Wilson should remain on your bench. His past success doesn't guarantee future production, and his current situation makes him a liability for your fantasy team. Consider other options until Wilson shows signs of improvement and the Broncos' offense starts to click.
- Kenny Pickett (Pittsburgh Steelers): Pickett and the Steelers' offense have looked stagnant. The offensive line struggles and a tough defensive matchup make Pickett a risky play. Pickett's decision-making has been questionable, and he’s facing constant pressure from opposing defenses. The Steelers' passing game is struggling to generate big plays, and the running game hasn't been effective enough to take the pressure off Pickett. This combination of factors makes Pickett a risky start, even in deeper leagues. It’s best to keep him on the bench until the Steelers' offense shows signs of improvement and Pickett gains more experience.
- Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns): Watson hasn't lived up to the hype since joining the Browns. His inconsistency and the Browns' run-heavy approach limit his fantasy upside. Watson's accuracy and decision-making have been inconsistent, and the Browns are relying heavily on their running game. The offensive line is solid, but the passing game hasn’t been able to capitalize on opportunities. Until Watson shows more consistency and the Browns' offense becomes more balanced, he’s a risky start for your fantasy team. Keep an eye on his performance in the coming weeks, but for now, it’s best to explore other quarterback options.
Running Backs: Who to Start and Who to Sit
Running backs are the backbone of many fantasy teams. The running back position is critical for fantasy success. Identifying the right players to start and sit can give you a competitive advantage. Let's delve into some running backs that deserve your attention.
Start
- Kyren Williams (Los Angeles Rams): Williams has emerged as the lead back for the Rams and is seeing a high volume of touches. His ability to run and catch passes makes him a valuable fantasy asset. Williams has shown great burst and agility, and he’s becoming a reliable option in the Rams' offense. His workload is increasing, and he’s proving to be a tough runner between the tackles. The Rams' coaching staff trusts Williams, and he’s poised to deliver consistent fantasy production. His involvement in the passing game adds another dimension to his value, making him a must-start in most leagues. With his current trajectory, Williams could become a top-tier fantasy running back. Start him with confidence.
- James Conner (Arizona Cardinals): Conner is the workhorse back for the Cardinals and should see plenty of carries. His physicality and ability to find the end zone make him a solid start. Conner’s power running style is perfect for grinding out yards, and he’s a reliable option in short-yardage situations. The Cardinals are likely to lean on him heavily, making him a valuable asset for fantasy owners. His track record of scoring touchdowns adds to his appeal, and he’s a player who can consistently put up solid numbers. If you’re looking for a reliable running back with a high floor, Conner is an excellent choice.
- Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns): With Nick Chubb out for the season, Ford steps into the lead role in the Browns' backfield. His explosiveness and pass-catching ability give him a high ceiling. Ford has shown flashes of brilliance and has the opportunity to establish himself as a key player in the Browns' offense. His versatility makes him a valuable asset, as he can contribute both as a runner and a receiver. The Browns are likely to give him a significant workload, making him a must-start in most formats. Keep an eye on his performance, as he could be a league-winning addition to your roster. Ford is poised to make a significant impact and should be started in your lineup.
Sit
- Miles Sanders (Carolina Panthers): Sanders has struggled to find running room and hasn't been as productive as expected. The Panthers' offensive struggles limit his upside, making him a risky start. Sanders has faced tough defenses, and the Panthers' offensive line hasn’t created many opportunities for him. His role in the passing game has also been limited, reducing his overall fantasy value. Until the Panthers' offense shows signs of improvement, Sanders should remain on your bench. His performance hasn't justified his draft position, and it’s best to look for more reliable options. Monitor his usage and production, but for now, he’s a risky play.
- AJ Dillon (Green Bay Packers): Dillon's role in the Packers' offense is diminishing, and he hasn't shown the explosiveness fantasy managers were hoping for. The Packers' backfield situation is becoming less predictable, making Dillon a risky play. He’s splitting carries with other backs, and his production has been inconsistent. Dillon’s lack of involvement in the passing game also limits his upside. Unless there’s a significant change in the Packers' offensive strategy, Dillon should remain on your bench. Look for running backs with clearer roles and more consistent production.
- Damien Harris (Buffalo Bills): Harris is in a crowded backfield and hasn't been able to establish himself as the lead back. The Bills' reliance on the passing game further limits his upside. Harris’s role is uncertain, and he’s splitting carries with other backs. The Bills' offensive scheme prioritizes the passing game, reducing the opportunities for running backs. Until Harris’s role becomes more defined and consistent, he’s a risky start for your fantasy team. Explore other options that offer more clarity and potential for production.
Wide Receivers: Who to Start and Who to Sit
Wide receivers are crucial for racking up points in PPR formats. Identifying receivers with favorable matchups and high target shares can lead to big fantasy performances. Let's look at the wide receiver landscape and pinpoint some players you should consider starting or sitting this week. Wide receivers can make or break your week. So, let's discuss some key wideouts and who should be in your lineup.
Start
- Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos): Despite the Broncos' offensive struggles, Sutton remains a focal point in the passing game. His size and contested-catch ability make him a valuable fantasy asset. Sutton has the potential to be a red-zone threat, and he’s still seeing a decent target share. The Broncos need to find ways to get him more involved, and this week could be a breakout opportunity. His physical presence and ability to make tough catches make him a valuable asset for fantasy owners. If you’re looking for a receiver with upside, Sutton is a solid start. Start Sutton with confidence and watch him potentially deliver a big performance.
- Zay Flowers (Baltimore Ravens): Flowers has quickly become Lamar Jackson's favorite target and is seeing a high volume of targets. His explosiveness and ability to create separation make him a promising fantasy option. Flowers' role in the Ravens' offense is expanding, and he’s becoming a reliable option for Jackson. His speed and agility make him a threat downfield, and he’s proving to be a tough matchup for opposing cornerbacks. The Ravens are likely to continue to feature him prominently, making him a must-start in PPR formats. If you’re looking for a breakout receiver, Flowers is an excellent choice. Watch for him to continue his impressive start to the season and provide consistent fantasy production.
- Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Doubs is emerging as a reliable target for Jordan Love and should see plenty of opportunities. His chemistry with Love and ability to make contested catches make him a solid start. Doubs has proven to be a valuable asset in the Packers' passing game, and he’s becoming a go-to option in critical situations. His size and strength make him a tough receiver to cover, and he’s developing a strong rapport with Love. The Packers are likely to continue to rely on him, making him a reliable fantasy option. Start Doubs with confidence, as he has the potential to deliver a strong performance.
Sit
- Skyy Moore (Kansas City Chiefs): Moore hasn't lived up to expectations and is struggling to find a consistent role in the Chiefs' offense. The Chiefs' crowded receiving corps limits his upside, making him a risky start. Moore's playing time has been inconsistent, and he hasn't been able to establish himself as a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs have multiple receiving options, making it difficult for Moore to stand out. Until he carves out a more defined role, Moore should remain on your bench. Look for receivers with clearer paths to targets and more consistent production.
- Kadarius Toney (Kansas City Chiefs): Toney's role in the Chiefs' offense is unpredictable, and he hasn't been able to stay healthy. His inconsistency makes him a risky play. Toney's injury history and inconsistent performance make him a difficult player to trust in your starting lineup. The Chiefs have other receivers who have been more reliable, reducing Toney’s opportunities. It’s best to keep him on the bench until he shows signs of consistency and improved health.
- Michael Thomas (New Orleans Saints): Thomas's injury history and inconsistent production make him a risky start. The Saints' passing game is unpredictable, and Thomas isn't the focal point he once was. Thomas hasn't been able to stay healthy, and his production has been inconsistent. The Saints have other receiving options, making it difficult for Thomas to deliver consistent fantasy numbers. It’s best to look for more reliable options until Thomas shows he can stay healthy and productive.
Tight Ends: Who to Start and Who to Sit
The tight end position can be a fantasy football wasteland, but finding a reliable option can give you a significant edge. Let's identify some tight ends you should consider starting or sitting in Week 3. Tight end is a tough position to figure out. So, let’s dive into some key TEs and discuss who should be in your lineup.
Start
- Evan Engram (Jacksonville Jaguars): Engram is a key part of the Jaguars' passing game and should see plenty of targets. His athleticism and pass-catching ability make him a valuable fantasy asset. Engram is a reliable target for Trevor Lawrence, and he’s becoming a consistent performer in PPR formats. His ability to get open and make tough catches makes him a valuable asset for fantasy owners. The Jaguars are likely to continue to feature him prominently, making him a must-start in most leagues. Start Engram with confidence and watch him continue to deliver solid fantasy numbers.
- Pat Freiermuth (Pittsburgh Steelers): Freiermuth is a reliable target in the Steelers' offense and should see a decent target share. His ability to find the end zone makes him a solid start. Freiermuth is a valuable red-zone threat, and he’s capable of making big plays. His chemistry with Kenny Pickett is improving, and he’s becoming a more consistent performer. If you’re looking for a reliable tight end with touchdown upside, Freiermuth is a solid choice.
- Luke Musgrave (Green Bay Packers): Musgrave is emerging as a potential breakout tight end and is showing good chemistry with Jordan Love. His athleticism and pass-catching ability give him a high ceiling. Musgrave’s role in the Packers' offense is growing, and he’s becoming a reliable option for Love. His speed and agility make him a tough matchup for opposing defenses. If you’re looking for a tight end with upside, Musgrave is worth considering.
Sit
- Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears): Kmet hasn't been productive and is part of a struggling Bears' offense. The Bears' offensive struggles limit his upside, making him a risky start. Kmet hasn't been able to establish himself as a reliable target, and the Bears' passing game is struggling. Until the Bears' offense shows signs of improvement, Kmet should remain on your bench. Look for tight ends in more favorable situations.
- Tyler Higbee (Los Angeles Rams): Higbee's production has been inconsistent, and he's splitting targets with other Rams' pass-catchers. The Rams' crowded receiving corps limits his upside. Higbee’s role in the offense is uncertain, and he’s facing competition for targets. It’s best to look for tight ends with more consistent roles and production.
- Dalton Schultz (Houston Texans): Schultz hasn't been a significant part of the Texans' offense and is struggling to develop chemistry with C.J. Stroud. The Texans' offensive struggles limit his upside. Schultz hasn't been able to establish himself as a reliable target, and the Texans' passing game is still developing. Until Schultz shows more consistency, he should remain on your bench.
Conclusion
Making the right start/sit decisions is crucial for fantasy football success. Guys, analyze matchups, consider player performance, and trust your gut. Good luck in Week 3, and may your fantasy teams thrive! Remember to stay updated with the latest news and adjust your lineups accordingly. Fantasy football is a game of strategy and adaptability, so be prepared to make changes and capitalize on opportunities. With careful planning and a bit of luck, you can dominate your league and bring home the championship. Keep an eye on injuries, depth chart changes, and any other factors that might impact player performance. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the thrill of the game!