As the NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers are setting their lineups for Week 1. While some players like Bijan Robinson and Josh Allen are automatic starters, attention turns to those on the edge of starting or flex consideration.
At running back, Aaron Jones is recommended against the Chicago Bears, with a history of strong performances in this matchup. Tyrone Tracy faces a Washington Commanders defense that struggled against the run last season. Travis Etienne is expected to lead Jacksonville’s backfield against Carolina, whose run defense allowed significant yardage last year.
For sleeper picks, Jacory Croskey-Merritt is suggested as a potential surprise performer against the New York Giants. Jerome Ford may also see opportunity in Cleveland’s offense versus Cincinnati.
In Atlanta Falcons news, Bijan Robinson is highlighted for his upcoming game against Tampa Bay. Last season he recorded 183 total yards and one touchdown over two games against them. “The Falcons envision even bigger things for their third-year back this fall, and you drafted Robinson in the first round for a reason. A big Sunday could be in store.”
Wide receiver options include Josh Downs facing Miami, where his role may expand due to quarterback play style changes. D.K. Metcalf has a promising outlook with Aaron Rodgers as his new quarterback and favorable matchups versus press coverage from the Jets. Courtland Sutton remains a steady option for Denver despite a challenging assignment.
Sleeper wideouts include Jakobi Meyers in his first game against his former team and Deebo Samuel, who may be featured more heavily due to uncertainty in Washington’s backfield.
The status of Falcons receiver Darnell Mooney is uncertain ahead of their matchup with Tampa Bay. “While the receiver has been back on the field and says he feels good, Mooney is still considered day-to-day and could very well be a game-time decision.”
At tight end, T.J. Hockenson could serve as an important target for Minnesota’s young quarterback J.J. McCarthy against Chicago’s defense. Trey McBride looks set for Arizona after not catching a touchdown most of last season; Jonnu Smith continues to have support due to offensive schemes favoring tight ends.
Evan Engram is mentioned as a sleeper pick at tight end if he finds chemistry within Denver’s offense under Sean Payton.
Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts also draws attention: “Pitts is also a sleeper start for me in Week 1. Last year, he caught 11 passes for 179 yards and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers, and Michael Penix Jr. might want to send Pitts a message by getting him involved early.”
Quarterback recommendations include Tua Tagovailoa leading Miami versus Indianapolis following an offseason full of changes but with high expectations on performance; Baker Mayfield faces Atlanta after recent success since joining their division; Kyler Murray starts strong with Arizona’s continuity; Geno Smith offers upside behind Las Vegas’ improved offensive line.
Atlanta rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s debut receives focus: “Another combo sleeper/Falcons pick here. This Falcons-Bucs matchup has a lot of potential to turn into a shootout, and Penix would benefit as much as Mayfield in that scenario. There are going to be some weeks this season where Penix is among the best fantasy quarterbacks — why not Week 1?”
Fantasy managers are reminded these selections reflect opinion rather than guarantees regarding player outcomes each week.
