NFL Fantasy Football Week 5 Insights
As the NFL season races into its fifth week, fantasy managers face tough decisions. Injury updates and bye weeks demand careful roster considerations. This week, players like Daniel Jones and Justin Herbert are set for potential bounce-back performances.
Quarterback Considerations
Start: Daniel Jones, Colts
Despite a lackluster showing in Week 4, Jones remains a solid fantasy pick. He ranks as a top-10 quarterback this season. His third-place EPA per play showcases his effectiveness.
Currently, he sits comfortably with the eighth-best completion rate over expected. Remarkably, Jones ranks highly in rushing attempts, making him a dual threat.
With a favorable matchup against the Raiders, he possesses an impressive 27-point implied team total. This makes him a strong starter this week.
Start: Justin Herbert, Chargers
Herbert enters Week 5 on the heels of a disappointing performance, but he still figures prominently in fantasy conversations. Positioned as the most pass-heavy team, the Chargers have a 25-point implied total.
Herbert ranks fourth in passing yards and eighth in touchdowns, while maintaining dual-threat capabilities with increased rushing attempts compared to last year. He deserves a spot in your lineup.
Consider Sitting
Bo Nix, Broncos
Nix’s fantasy prospects appear dim ahead of a tough matchup against the Eagles. They’ve limited opposing passers mightily this year. Only one quarterback has thrown for over 200 yards against them.
With Nix struggling this season, ranked as the 33rd passer, it’s prudent to keep him on your bench.
Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers
Mayfield’s facing a test against the Seahawks, who have emerged as a formidable defense this season. Their performance under Mike Macdonald reflects this, ranking high in limiting fantasy points to quarterbacks.
The current trends in Tampa Bay’s offense suggest limited passing efficiency, making Mayfield less of a must-start, even as a QB1.
Running Back Recommendations
Start: David Montgomery, Lions
Montgomery had a standout performance in Week 3 but fell short last week. However, he’s expected to bounce back in a favorable matchup against the Bengals.
As a heavy favorite, over 10 points, the Lions’ rushing game should thrive. Montgomery’s strong early-season metrics are compelling enough to give him another shot.
Start: Woody Marks, Texans
Marks has taken control of the backfield, surpassing veteran Nick Chubb in carries last week. Against the Ravens, he stands to benefit from a positive game script.
This newfound opportunity positions him as a valuable fantasy asset in Week 5.
Set Your Expectations Lower
Sit: Tony Pollard, Titans
Pollard’s struggles continue this season, compounded by the Titans’ tough matchup against the Cardinals. Even if Spears isn’t activated this week, Pollard’s current performance places him firmly in the RB3 ranks.
Sit: Chase Brown, Bengals
With little support from the Bengals’ offensive line, Brown’s performance has faltered. Ranked lowly in both rushing metrics, he doesn’t offer much upside this week.
Wide Receiver Insights
Start: Michael Pittman, Colts
Pittman stands out against the Raiders, as they rely heavily on zone coverage. His ability to exploit this makes him a strong choice for fantasy managers this week.
Start: Xavier Worthy, Chiefs
Worthy’s return has seen him heavy involved in the Chiefs’ offense. As the number one receiver, his recent target share further validates a start in your fantasy lineup.
Consider Sitting
Sit: Jerry Jeudy, Browns
Jeudy faces challenges with a rookie quarterback under center. The mismatch in throwing abilities may lead to disappointing results for him.
Sit: Marvin Mims, Broncos
Despite a few standout moments, Mims lacks consistent targets and involvement on a bad offense. This makes him a risky start this week.
Tight End Suggestions
Start: Darren Waller, Dolphins
Waller’s role is expanding, especially after Tyreek Hill’s injury. With his impressive game from last week, he’s a must-start tight end against a vulnerable defense.
Start: Mason Taylor, Jets
If you’re in need of a tight end streamer, Taylor’s recent target trends make him a worthy addition. His emerging role in the passing game could yield positive results.
Risky Starts
Sit: Travis Kelce, Chiefs
Kelce’s usage has dropped significantly, making him a risky start against a formidable defense that has limited tight ends this season.
Sit: Chig Okonkwo, Titans
Little recent production has made Okonkwo a less desirable option. The Titans’ struggles don’t offer a favorable outlook for him this week.
Embrace the Unpredictability
As Week 5 unfolds, the unpredictability of the NFL season heightens. Staying informed and ready to adapt is key for fantasy managers looking to secure victories in their leagues.