NFL Week 5: Who To Start & Sit!
Hey guys! Week 5 of the NFL season is upon us, and that means it's time to make some tough decisions about who to start and who to sit on your fantasy football teams. Don't worry, though, because I'm here to help you navigate those tricky lineup choices. Let's dive into some players you should consider starting and some you might want to keep on your bench this week.
Quarterbacks: Start 'Em & Sit 'Em
Start:
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Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Jalen Hurts is facing the Los Angeles Rams, and this is a fantastic matchup for him. The Rams have struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks, and Hurts' ability to run the ball makes him a high-floor, high-ceiling option. Expect a big day from Hurts both through the air and on the ground. The Eagles' offense is designed to maximize his strengths, and the Rams' defense simply doesn't have the personnel to slow him down. Fire him up with confidence. — Flower Tribal Tattoo: Shin Design Ideas
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Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts): If he plays, start him! Anthony Richardson has an enticing matchup against the Tennessee Titans. While the Titans' defense can be tough, Richardson's rushing upside gives him a safe floor and a high ceiling. Monitor his practice reports, but if he's active, get him in your lineup. Even against a potentially stout defense, his athleticism and dual-threat capabilities make him a threat to put up significant fantasy points. The Titans will have to account for his legs, which opens up opportunities in the passing game as well. — Joni Eareckson Tada: Life Before The Accident
Sit:
- Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos): Guys, I know you might be tempted to start Russell Wilson, but the Broncos are facing a tough New York Jets defense this week. The Jets have been excellent at limiting opposing quarterbacks, and Wilson has struggled with consistency this season. Look for a safer option. The Jets' pass rush is relentless, and their secondary is among the best in the league. Wilson could be under constant pressure, leading to turnovers and limited yardage. Don't let the name recognition fool you; there are better options on your roster.
- Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams): Matthew Stafford is facing the Philadelphia Eagles' defense, which is among the best in the league, and that is a scary proposition for fantasy managers. The Eagles' pass rush is relentless, and their secondary is top-notch. Stafford could be in for a long day. The Eagles' defensive line will likely disrupt the Rams' offensive rhythm, and Stafford may struggle to find open receivers. This isn't the week to gamble on Stafford's arm; keep him on the bench.
Running Backs: Start 'Em & Sit 'Em
Start:
- Bijan Robinson (Atlanta Falcons): Bijan Robinson is a must-start every week, and Week 5 is no exception. He's facing the Houston Texans, who have struggled to contain running backs this season. Expect a heavy workload and plenty of opportunities for Robinson to rack up yards and touchdowns. The Falcons are committed to running the ball, and Robinson is their primary weapon. His combination of power, speed, and elusiveness makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Lock him in your lineup and enjoy the points.
- Khalil Herbert (Chicago Bears): Khalil Herbert faces the Washington Commanders. While the Commanders' defense is generally strong, they've shown vulnerabilities against the run. Herbert should see a significant workload and has the potential for a big game. With the Bears looking to establish the run, Herbert is poised to capitalize. His hard-running style and ability to break tackles make him a valuable asset in fantasy football. The Bears will likely lean on him to control the clock and keep their defense off the field.
Sit:
- Miles Sanders (Carolina Panthers): Miles Sanders has been a disappointment this season, and Week 5 against the Detroit Lions is not the week to trust him. The Lions have a stout run defense, and Sanders has struggled to find running room. Look for a more reliable option. Sanders has been hampered by injuries and inconsistent play, making him a risky start. The Lions' defensive line will likely control the line of scrimmage, limiting Sanders' opportunities. Keep him on the bench until he shows signs of improvement.
- AJ Dillon (Green Bay Packers): AJ Dillon is splitting carries with Aaron Jones (when healthy), and the Packers are facing the Las Vegas Raiders, who have been decent against the run. Dillon's upside is limited. The Packers' offense has struggled to find consistency, and Dillon's role has been unpredictable. The Raiders' defense will likely focus on containing the Packers' running game, making it difficult for Dillon to find success. There are likely better options available on your roster.
Wide Receivers: Start 'Em & Sit 'Em
Start:
- DK Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks): DK Metcalf has a favorable matchup against the New York Giants this week. The Giants' secondary has been vulnerable, and Metcalf's size and speed make him a tough matchup for any cornerback. Expect a big game from Metcalf. The Seahawks will likely look to exploit the Giants' defensive weaknesses, and Metcalf is their primary target. His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field makes him a valuable asset in fantasy football. Start him with confidence.
- Christian Kirk (Jacksonville Jaguars): Christian Kirk is facing the Buffalo Bills, and he should be considered a start. The Bills' defense is tough, but Kirk is the Jaguars' primary receiver and should see plenty of targets. His quickness and route-running ability make him a difficult matchup for opposing cornerbacks. The Jaguars will likely need to rely on their passing game to keep pace with the Bills, and Kirk is poised to benefit. Start him as a reliable WR2.
Sit:
- Michael Thomas (New Orleans Saints): Michael Thomas is facing a tough New England Patriots defense this week, and his production has been inconsistent this season. The Patriots have a shutdown secondary, and Thomas could struggle to get open. Look for a safer option. Thomas has battled injuries and inconsistent quarterback play, making him a risky start. The Patriots' defensive game plan will likely focus on containing Thomas, limiting his opportunities. Keep him on the bench until he shows signs of regaining his past form.
- Skyy Moore (Kansas City Chiefs): Skyy Moore has not lived up to expectations this season, and Week 5 against the Minnesota Vikings is not the week to gamble on him. The Vikings have a decent defense, and Moore's role in the Chiefs' offense is still unclear. The Chiefs have a plethora of receiving options, and Moore's target share has been unpredictable. The Vikings' defense will likely focus on containing Travis Kelce, leaving limited opportunities for Moore. There are likely better options available on your roster.
Tight Ends: Start 'Em & Sit 'Em
Start:
- Evan Engram (Jacksonville Jaguars): Evan Engram should be started. He is facing the Buffalo Bills. Engram is a key target in the Jaguars' passing game, and his athleticism creates mismatches. The Bills can be beat by a receiving tight end, so start Engram.
- Luke Musgrave (Green Bay Packers): Luke Musgrave is facing the Las Vegas Raiders. Musgrave has emerged as a reliable target for Jordan Love, and the Raiders have struggled against tight ends. His size and speed make him a valuable asset in the passing game. The Packers will likely look to exploit the Raiders' defensive weaknesses, and Musgrave is poised to benefit. Start him as a potential breakout option.
Sit:
- Tyler Higbee (Los Angeles Rams): Tyler Higbee is facing the Philadelphia Eagles' defense, which is a no-go for me. The Eagles are great at covering tight ends, and Higbee has been inconsistent this season. The Eagles' defensive line will likely disrupt the Rams' offensive rhythm, limiting Higbee's opportunities. There are likely better options available on your roster.
- Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears): Cole Kmet has a tough matchup against the Washington Commanders. The Commanders have a strong defense, particularly against tight ends. Kmet's production has been inconsistent, and his upside is limited. The Commanders' defense will likely focus on containing the Bears' passing game, making it difficult for Kmet to find success. Look for a more favorable option on your roster.
So there you have it, guys! My Week 5 start and sit recommendations. Remember to stay updated on injury reports and any late-breaking news that could affect your lineup decisions. Good luck this week, and may the fantasy gods be ever in your favor! — Laura Kavanagh: Is She Married?