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Fantasy football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em and lineup advice for all 2025 Week 3 matchups. Joey analyzes in-depth Week 3 matchups via game-by-game breakdowns.
Welcome, RotoBallers, to our Week 3 matchups analysis and fantasy football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em picks! For anyone new here, this is our main weekly matchups column where we cover all games. Every week of the fantasy season, we will offer in-depth analysis of every player in every game.
With some teams entering Week 3 at 1-1 or 0-2, this could be a very important week early in the season. Falling to 0-3 or even 1-2 is a drastic difference from potentially going 2-1.
So, let's dive in and look at the best starts and sits of the week. Good luck with your fantasy teams this week!
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2025:- 2025 fantasy football rankings
- Running back (RB) fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver (WR) fantasy football rankings
- Tight end (TE) fantasy football rankings
- Quarterback (QB) fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Kicker (K) fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EST Games
Cincinnati Bengals at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: MIN -2.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Jordan Mason
Jordan Mason has a fantastic opportunity in front of him in Week 3. Aaron Jones Sr. will miss this game due to an ankle injury, and that means Mason will have the whole backfield to himself. Mason is averaging 4.1 yards per carry through two weeks. Now, he gets a fantastic matchup against a Bengals defense that allowed over five yards per carry to the Jaguars last week. So, he'll be a strong RB2 play this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
WR Tee Higgins
Joe Burrow being out is not great news for Tee Higgins. He will be a much more boom-or-bust play each week. In five games with Jake Browning in 2023, the Bengals WR scored above 20 PPR fantasy points twice and under 10 PPR fantasy points three times. Given that the Vikings have played well against outside wideouts this year (DJ Moore and Drake London), Higgins is a risky WR3.
Tee Higgins! Bengals tie it up!
JAXvsCIN on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/gWaC6astUJ
— NFL (@NFL) September 14, 2025
Other Matchups:
QB Carson Wentz
With J.J. McCarthy out for two to four weeks due to an ankle sprain, Carson Wentz will step in as Minnesota's starting quarterback for the next few weeks. However, he should only be started in deeper Superflex formats in Week 3 against the Bengals. His last start came in Week 18 of the 2024 season, in which he threw for just 98 yards.
QB Jake Browning
Browning could be a solid QB2 in Superflex formats this week against the Vikings. He scored 20.7 fantasy points in last week's win over the Jaguars and was a strong QB1 play when he took over for Burrow in 2023. In his seven starts that season, Browning averaged 20.1 fantasy points per game. Even in a tougher matchup against this Minnesota defense, he could even emerge as a low-end QB1 in 18-plus team leagues.
RB Chase Brown
It'll be interesting to see how much the loss of Burrow hurts Chase Brown's fantasy value. But it is important to note that Joe Mixon averaged over 18 PPR fantasy points with Browning in seven games in 2023. Therefore, Brown will still be a high-end RB2 in fantasy this week. The Vikings had a hard time stopping Atlanta's rushing attack a week ago, meaning the Bengals RB could be in for a nice rushing day.
Even with Burrow out, you are still starting Ja'Marr Chase in all formats. He has played both out wide and in the slot through the first two weeks, and the Bengals designed some opportunities for him last week with Browning. Although his ceiling might not be as high, he should continue to put up fantasy points for managers.
It has been a slow start to the season for Justin Jefferson. He has just seven catches for 125 yards and one touchdown through the first two weeks. Nevertheless, he will still be a strong WR1 play for fantasy managers. Wentz taking over could actually help Jefferson in fantasy, and this Bengals secondary has given up the 12th-most fantasy points to WRs so far.
After being drafted as the TE6 in drafts, T.J. Hockenson has finished as the overall TE31 (Week 1) and TE42 (Week 2) to start the season. As a result, things are bleak for Hockenson right now. But with a new quarterback under center and this defensive matchup, he will be a low-end TE1 in 12-team leagues this weekend. Cincinnati is giving up 12.5 PPR fantasy points per game to the TE position in 2025.
Injuries:
- Joe Burrow (toe) - out
- Aaron Jones Sr. (hamstring) - out
- J.J. McCarthy (ankle)
Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots
Spread: PIT -1.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Drake Maye
Drake Maye put together a strong fantasy performance last week, totaling 26.3 fantasy points. That helped him finish as the overall QB3 on the week. The good news for him is that he now gets a Steelers defense that has looked awful in the first two weeks. Pittsburgh has allowed at least 17 fantasy points to the QB position in both games this season. So, Maye will be a low-end QB1 this weekend.
Jaylen Warren operated as the clear RB1 in Pittsburgh's backfield last week. He saw 18 opportunities (14 carries and four catches), which helped him finish as the overall RB13 in PPR formats. With that encouraging usage, Warren will be a strong RB2 play in Week 3 against a Patriots defense that ranks fourth in receiving yards allowed to RBs this year.
It was not a great game from Calvin Austin III in Week 3. Aaron Rodgers basically threw him under the bus in the postgame press conference, and he only managed to score 3.2 PPR fantasy points. However, the WR has a fantastic matchup ahead of him against this New England secondary. The Patriots have allowed the second-most fantasy points to WRs this year. That makes Austin a potential flex play in 14-plus team leagues.
WRs Stefon Diggs/Kayshon Boutte
Look at what both Jaxon Smith-Njigba (eight catches for 103 yards) and Cooper Kupp (seven catches for 90 yards) did to this Pittsburgh secondary last week. Therefore, both Stefon Diggs and Kayshon Boutte could be started in some formats this weekend.
Diggs increased his snap share from 41% to 52% last week, and that number should continue to climb each week. It is a good sign that he has seen at least five targets in both games. As for Boutte, he'll be more of a 14-team start this weekend after seeing only one target in last week's win. His matchup on the outside will primarily be against Darius Slay, who has allowed 15.3 yards per reception this year.
Matchups We Hate:
WR DK Metcalf
Even though Rodgers has thrown at least 30 times in both games this season, DK Metcalf only has a 21.7% target share through two weeks. That has resulted in just seven catches for 103 yards and one touchdown to begin the year. If Christian Gonzalez returns from his hamstring injury this week, Metcalf will be a riskier WR option.
Other Matchups:
QB Aaron Rodgers
After a spectacular Week 1 performance, Rodgers came back down to earth last week. He only threw for 203 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions against the Seahawks. That's on par with what we should expect from the future Hall of Famer in fantasy moving forward. Therefore, he'll be more of a middle-of-the-pack QB2 play against the Patriots this weekend.
Patriots RBs
Rhamondre Stevenson has been the clear RB1 in New England's backfield to start the season. He has played 65% of the team's offensive snaps in both games and totaled a season-high 16 touches for 142 yards last week. With Stevenson leading the way on offense, he will be an RB2 play in Week 3 against a Steelers defense that has allowed 149.5 rush yards per game through the first two weeks.
With TreVeyon Henderson, he really isn't a must-start anymore. He has played under 35% of the team's offensive snaps in consecutive games and only touched the ball five times in last week's win. So, he will be more of an RB3 this weekend, even in a great matchup against a Pittsburgh defense that will be without Alex Highsmith.
TE Jonnu Smith
Jonnu Smith hasn't been used much down the field so far in Pittsburgh. He is averaging negative two air yards per game, which ranks as the TE120 in the early portion of the season. Since Smith has only totaled nine catches for 42 yards and one touchdown across the first two games, he will be more of a TE2 against the Patriots.
TE Hunter Henry
After a solid Week 1 showing against the Las Vegas Raiders, Hunter Henry was nonexistent in the passing game last weekend against the Dolphins. He caught just one pass for nine yards en route to a TE45 fantasy finish. However, Henry will be a lower TE1 option in 12-plus team leagues this week. The Steelers allowed four catches to Seattle TEs a week ago.
Injuries:
None
Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans
Spread: IND -3.5
Matchups We Love:
Jonathan Taylor is off to a tremendous start in 2025. He has rushed for 236 yards through two games and is coming off an overall RB1 finish last week against the Broncos. As a result, he will be a must-start RB1 in Week 3 against the Titans. Tennessee is allowing over 5.4 yards per carry to opposing RBs this season.
It's not a surprise that Michael Pittman Jr. had a subpar fantasy day last week. Patrick Surtain II was shadowing him when he was on the field, and that led to a four-catch, 40-yard day in the receiving game. However, Pittman should bounce back in a much better matchup in Week 3. Neither L'Jarius Sneed nor Jarvis Brownlee Jr. presents much of a challenge on the outside. So, he'll be a solid WR3.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Cam Ward
There are going to be plenty of growing pains with Cam Ward in the first few weeks of the season. That makes him more of a QB2 moving forward, especially in a Week 3 matchup against the Colts. Indianapolis has allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to opposing QBs so far this season, and Ward has thrown for just 287 yards and one touchdown across two weeks.
Other Matchups:
QB Daniel Jones
At this point in the season, Daniel Jones needs to be rostered in every format. He is currently the QB2 in all fantasy formats and will enter QB1 status in Week 3 against the Titans. Although Tennessee has given the second-fewest fantasy points to QBs so far this season, Jones is worth starting in some 12-team leagues. He has scored 20 fantasy points in both games.
RB Tony Pollard
Fantasy managers might be frustrated with Tony Pollard in the early going. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in both contests, and the offensive line blocking for him might be one of the worst in the NFL. Nevertheless, Pollard will still be a solid RB2 play. He has already seen 39 touches and now faces an Indianapolis defense that is allowing 5.4 yards per carry.
WR Josh Downs
After struggling to be involved in Week 1, Josh Downs was a much better fantasy option in Week 2. He caught six passes for 51 yards while leading the team with eight targets. The problem, though, is that Downs only played 58% of the team's offensive snaps and ran just 21 routes in the contest. Therefore, he will be a riskier flex play this week.
Better days are surely ahead for Calvin Ridley. But with Ward continuing to struggle in the air, it might take Ridley some time to be a consistent fantasy option. Therefore, Ridley will be a low-end WR3 this weekend. The Colts secondary has played well to start the season, and CB1 Charvarius Ward should be back for this contest to man up against the Titans playmaker.
Even though the Titans offense has struggled as a whole, Elic Ayomanor has been one of the few bright spots. He has played over 70% of the offensive snaps in back-to-back games and has seen at least six targets in both contests. Last week, Ayomanor totaled four catches for 56 yards and one touchdown. That makes him a potential flex play in 14-plus team leagues.
TE Tyler Warren
Tyler Warren is one of the few tight ends fantasy managers can trust right now. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in both games and carries a 25.8% target share into Week 3. That makes him a must-start TE1 against the Titans. Tennessee allowed five catches and a touchdown to Los Angeles TEs a week ago.
Injuries:
None
Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: JAX -1.5
Matchups We Love:
WR Nico Collins
Fantasy managers certainly want to see more from Nico Collins in fantasy moving forward. He is averaging just 9.85 PPR fantasy points per game through the first two weeks and has only caught six of his 14 targets this season. However, Collins could be in for a boom week against the Jaguars. Chase just tore up this secondary for 165 receiving yards in Week 2, making the Texans playmaker a must-start WR1.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Nick Chubb
Nick Chubb didn't do much on the ground in the first three quarters last week before breaking off a 25-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Following that tough running day, Chubb has another difficult matchup against a sneakily solid Jacksonville front seven. The Jaguars have allowed the fewest fantasy points to the position so far and are giving up just 3.3 yards per carry to RBs. So, he'll be a riskier flex play.
Brian Thomas Jr. has not gotten off to a smooth start this year. He has caught just five passes for 60 yards. Unfortunately, things won't get easier for him in Week 3. All-Pro corner Derek Stingley Jr. will likely shadow Thomas in this game, and Stingley held both Davante Adams and Mike Evans to under 60 receiving yards. As a result, he will be more of a middle-of-the-pack WR2.
Those who are thinking about starting Brenton Strange this week should find another TE to start. Strange only caught three passes for 17 yards in Week 2, and the Texans have been one of the better defenses against TEs dating back to last season. Houston has allowed six catches to TEs through the first two weeks.
Other Matchups:
QB C.J. Stroud
C.J. Stroud will enter Week 3 as a middle-of-the-pack QB2 option. He hasn't been a solid fantasy QB through the first two weeks, with games of 9.7 fantasy points and 15 fantasy points. Therefore, you are likely only starting in Superflex formats this weekend. The Jaguars did allow Browning to score 20.7 fantasy points last week.
Trevor Lawrence hasn't exactly been accurate as a passer to begin his 2025 campaign. He has thrown three interceptions in two weeks and currently has a 58.9% completion percentage. As a result, Lawrence will be more of a QB2 play this week against the Texans. Houston hasn't allowed a QB to score over 20 fantasy points this year.
Travis Etienne is looking like one of the best value picks in drafts currently. H has scored above 16 PPR fantasy points in consecutive games while totaling at least 16 touches both weeks. Now, he'll go up against a Texans' front seven that got run all over last week against the Buccaneers. Given that Houston is allowing 4.4 yds on the ground this year, Etienne is a nice RB2 play this week.
It's so hard to trust Hunter every week because his offensive snaps are going to vary on a week-to-week basis. After playing 64% of the team's offensive snaps in Week 1, that number dropped to 59% last week. That resulted in a mediocre three-catch, 22-yard performance. So, Hunter will be more of a WR4 on Sunday against the Texans.
All signs point to Christian Kirk making his Houston debut this week against the Jaguars. Kirk has missed the first two games due to a hamstring injury that he suffered in practice leading up to Week 1. However, let's wait a week before putting him in your lineups. He will almost certainly be limited in his return.
Injuries:
- Christian Kirk (hamstring) - questionable
Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers
Spread: ATL -5.5
Matchups We Love:
Bijan Robinson will continue to be a strong RB1 option in Week 3 against the Panthers. He has scored above 19 PPR fantasy points in both games and now faces a Panthers defense that has struggled to stop the run since the beginning of last year. Robinson could have a field day on the ground in this one.
Kyle Pitts is starting to emerge as a potential low-end TE1 in some leagues. He has caught at least four passes in both games and currently has a solid 20.3% target share. As a result, Pitts could be a solid start in 12-plus team leagues this weekend against the Panthers. Carolina allowed over 120 receiving yards to Arizona TEs last week.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Bryce Young
It's going to be hard to trust Bryce Young in fantasy this week, even in Superflex formats. The Falcons have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to QBs this year, and we all saw what this defense did to McCarthy last week on Sunday night. That means Young will come in as a lower-end QB2 this weekend.
You are still likely starting Chuba Hubbard as an RB2 this week. However, expectations should be tempered for the Carolina running back. Atlanta is only allowing 89.5 rush yards per game across the first two weeks and held Minnesota RBs to just 3.8 yards per carry in Week 2. So, this is a tougher matchup for Hubbard.
Other Matchups:
Michael Penix Jr. has finished as the overall QB10 and the overall QB32 in the first two weeks. He'll likely finish somewhere between those two ranks in Week 3 against the Panthers. Carolina has held both Lawrence and Kyler Murray to under 16 fantasy points this year, meaning Penix is more of a middle-of-the-pack QB2.
WR Drake London
Fantasy managers shouldn't be panicking about London after just two weeks. Better fantasy days are surely ahead for the 24-year-old. Nonetheless, his matchup on the outside against Jaycee Horn is tough. Although he torched this secondary for 187 yards in Week 18 last year, that was without Horn playing. The good news is that the Panthers cornerback won't follow London the whole game, which makes him a low-end WR1.
A.J. Terrell did a nice job last week when he was in coverage against Justin Jefferson. The good news for Tetairoa McMillan, though, is that Terrell is likely to miss this week's game. Therefore, McMillan is a WR2 this week after totaling 100 yards for the first time in his career last week against the Cardinals.
Hunter Renfrow served as a security blanket for Young throughout last week's game. He caught seven passes for 48 yards and two touchdowns. After that massive fantasy performance, Renfrow could be considered a flex play in deeper formats this weekend. He played 81% of the team's snaps last week, and Emeka Egbuka had some success in the slot against Atlanta's secondary two weeks ago.
Injuries:
None
Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: PHI -3.5
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
It's going to be hard to trust Matthew Stafford in all formats this week. He has finished outside the top-18 at the QB position in both games this season and now gets a tough matchup against the Eagles in Week 3. Philadelphia has allowed under 190 pass yards in each game so far while allowing just one passing touchdown. So, Stafford is a low-end QB2.
QB Jalen Hurts
You are likely still starting Jalen Hurts confidently in Week 3. However, this will be a tougher matchup for the 27-year-old. The Rams defense has played well through the first two weeks. Although Los Angeles played against struggling offenses in the Texans and Titans, Hurts only threw for 307 yards and two touchdowns combined in his two matchups against this secondary in 2024.
With Jalen Carter back for last week's game, the Chiefs had no ground presence on offense. Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt rushed 18 times for just 53 yards. Therefore, expectations should be tempered for Kyren Williams in Week 3. Still, he will come in as a high-end RB2 after rushing for 106 yards in last week's NFC Divisional Round against Philadelphia.
Other Matchups:
Saquon Barkley will continue to be a strong RB1 play for fantasy managers. He has scored above 17 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games and ran all over the Rams defense in both games last season. Barkley ran for 255 yards and two touchdowns in Week 12 and 205 yards and two touchdowns in the NFC Divisional Round. You're starting him in Week 3.
WR Davante Adams
After two weeks, it's clear that Davante Adams will command a high target share in 2025. He has seen 21 targets through two games and will enter Week 3 with a whopping 35% target share on the season. As a result, you're starting him as a solid WR2 option this week against the Eagles. Fantasy managers shouldn't worry too much about Adams being matched up against Quinyon Michell.
WR Puka Nacua
There's no doubt that Puka Nacua will be a must-start WR1 this week against the Eagles. Although Philadelphia does have an overall elite defense, you aren't sitting Nacua because of it. He has scored above 20 PPR fantasy points in both games this season and remains a top target for Stafford in this offense.
WR A.J. Brown
Things are not looking great for A.J. Brown to start the season. He caught only one pass for eight yards in Week 1 and then totaled five catches for 27 yards in Week 2. However, we are not at must-sit territory for Brown just yet. The 28-year-old did see eight targets last week, and his win rate on the outside was way up. So, even though Los Angeles has played well in the secondary, Brown will be a WR2.
DeVonta Smith has not been a strong fantasy option through the first two weeks, averaging just 6.95 PPR fantasy points per game. Given his slow start on offense, Smith will be a lower-end WR3 against the Rams in Week 3. Los Angeles has yet to allow a pass catcher over 60 yards, and Hurts has thrown just 45 times this year.
It appears that Dallas Goedert has a chance to suit up this week after missing Week 2 due to a knee sprain. If he does, Goedert is only worth starting in deeper formats. Although the veteran TE did post a respectable 11.4 PPR fantasy points in Week 1, there just aren't enough targets to go around on offense. The Rams have also yet to allow a TE over 35 receiving yards this year.
Injuries:
- Dallas Goedert (knee) -- questionable
New York Jets at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Spread: LAR -5.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Bucky Irving
The Jets just got run all over last week, as James Cook rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns. That's surely great news for Bucky Irving's fantasy value in Week 3. That makes Irving a must-start RB1 this weekend. The Buccaneers RB has finished as a top-15 fantasy RB in both games this season.
Bucky Irving with the moves for 22 yards. 42 seconds remaining in the game.
TBvsHOU on ESPN/ABC
Stream on @NFLPlus and ESPN+ pic.twitter.com/eCH3p6XT4T— NFL (@NFL) September 16, 2025
Matchups We Hate:
RB Breece Hall
This Buccaneers' front seven is legit. This defense held Bijan Robinson to just 24 rush yards in Week 1, and the Texans didn't do much on the ground for three quarters before Chubb broke out for a 25-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. Since Tampa Bay is allowing 3.3 yards per carry this year, Breece Hall will be a lower-end RB2 play this weekend.
WR Mike Evans
Evans has had a difficult matchup on the outside in each of the first two weeks. He went up against Terrell in Week 1 and then Stingley in Week 2. Now, he'll be shadowed by Sauce Gardner in this game. Gardner currently ranks third in PFF coverage grade this season. So, Evans is a riskier WR2 play this weekend in a tough matchup.
Other Matchups:
Baker Mayfield continues to put up solid fantasy numbers for managers. He scored 22.6 fantasy points in Week 1 and then scored 19.9 fantasy points in a tougher matchup last week against the Texans. With five passing touchdowns in two games, Mayfield will remain a QB1 in Week 3. The Jets allowed Aaron Rodgers to throw for four passing touchdowns back in Week 1.
QB Tyrod Taylor
With Justin Fields (concussion) already ruled out for this contest, Tyrod Taylor will be making his first start since 2023. Even though he hasn't made a start in over one year, he could be a potential QB2 play in Superflex formats this week. He has some rushing upside and averaged 17.6 fantasy points in his four full starts back in 2023.
Rachaad White saw more work in the running game last week, which helped him finish with 14.6 PPR fantasy points. However, you aren't starting him in most cases this week. He only played 31% of the team's offensive snaps in Week 2, and the Jets have only allowed 29 receiving yards to opposing backs through two games.
WR Emeka Egbuka
Emeka Egbuka is currently dealing with a hip/groin injury. If he manages to play through both of those injuries this week, Egbuka will continue to be a solid WR3 for fantasy managers. He will be able to avoid Gardner in coverage and will instead be matched up against Brandon Stephens. Stephens has allowed eight catches through two weeks.
It'll be interesting to see how much Taylor looks Garrett Wilson's way this week. Nevertheless, fantasy managers should trust him as a WR2 this week against the Buccaneers. He is literally the only WR in this New York offense and has a high enough fantasy floor this weekend. Both London and Collins scored above 13 PPR fantasy points against this secondary in the first two weeks.
Injuries:
- Justin Fields (concussion) - out
Las Vegas Raiders at Washington Commanders
Spread: LAR -5.5
Matchups We Love:
Terry McLaurin has struggled to make an impact this year. He has seven catches for 75 yards through two weeks. However, this is a perfect bounce-back opportunity for McLaurin. The Raiders have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to WRs, and Las Vegas has allowed three different WRs to score above 15.5 PPR fantasy points. Therefore, McLaurin is a WR2 this week -- even if Jayden Daniels misses this game.
The Raiders have struggled to defend opposing WRs this season. Kayshon Boutte (six catches for 103 yards), Stefon Diggs (six catches for 57 yards), Quentin Johnston (three catches for 71 yards and one touchdown), and Keenan Allen (five catches for 61 yards and one touchdown) all had solid games against this Las Vegas secondary. Given Deebo Samuel's versatility in this offense, he is a solid WR2 play.
TE Brock Bowers
Even though Brock Bowers entered last week's game with a questionable tag, he still played 77% of the team's offensive snaps. While he didn't have the best offensive day (five catches for 38 yards), look for Bowers to have a much better game in Week 3. Tucker Kraft just exploded for six catches for 124 yards and one touchdown against this Washington secondary a week ago. So, you're starting Bowers in all formats.
Matchups We Hate:
With Austin Ekeler (Achilles) out for the season, it appears that Jacory Croskey-Merritt will see a bigger role on offense. Nevertheless, this is a tougher matchup for the rookie. The Raiders have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to RBs this year, and opposing backs are currently averaging just 3.2 yards per carry against this Las Vegas defense. So, Croskey-Merritt might be a riskier flex option.
Other Matchups:
Commanders QBs
It remains to be seen if Jayden Daniels (knee) will play in Week 3. He is battling a knee injury that could keep him out this week. If he plays, you are likely starting him in most formats as a QB1. Just keep in mind that we could see his rushing be limited in this contest.
If he misses, Marcus Mariota will serve as Washington's QB1. In the two games played last year in which Daniels left early, Mariota scored 19.6 fantasy points (Week 7) and 26 fantasy points (Week 18). So, he could be a sneaky QB2 option in Superflex formats this week against a Raiders defense that is allowing 264.5 pass yards per game across two weeks.
QB Geno Smith
Geno Smith did not look great last week. He threw for just 180 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. While we should expect a better day for him in Week 3, he will only be a QB2 option this week against the Commanders. His limited rushing caps his fantasy ceiling each week, making him a middle-of-the-pack QB2 for those in Superflex formats.
Despite the Raiders spending the sixth overall pick on Ashton Jeanty in the 2025 NFL Draft, he only saw 11 carries in last week's loss. Part of that could have been because of his struggles in pass protection. Nonetheless, Jeanty should see more chances in Week 3. Therefore, he will be an RB2 play this week against a Commanders defense that allowed Josh Jacobs to run for 84 yards and one touchdown last week.
It's pretty clear that Jakobi Meyers is the clear WR1 in this Las Vegas offense. He has a solid 28.6% target share through two weeks and has totaled at least six catches for 65 yards in both games this season. As a result, Meyers will be a low-end WR2 this week. Since Meyers plays most of his snaps in the slot, he will be matched up against Mike Sainristil, who has an abysmal 41.7 PFF grade right now.
TE Zach Ertz
Zach Ertz has emerged as a low-end TE1 for Week 3 against the Raiders. While there is a good shot that Daniels misses this week, Ertz can still be started in some 10-team leagues. He should be Mariota's security blanket in the middle of the field, and the Raiders did allow Hunter Henry to total four catches for 66 yards back in Week 1.
Injuries:
- Jayden Daniels (knee) - questionable
Green Bay Packers at Cleveland Browns
Spread: LAR -5.5
Matchups We Love:
Browns TEs
Through the first two weeks, it appears that both David Njoku and Harold Fannin Jr. could co-exist in this Cleveland offense. The results haven't necessarily been there, but better days are ahead for the 6-foot-4 playmaker. He ranks first among all TEs in routes run per game (36.5) and has played at least 60 snaps in back-to-back games.
As for Fannin, the results have been there for him. He has finished as a top-12 fantasy TE in back-to-back games and seen 14 total targets in those two contests. Therefore, both Njoku and Fannin are low-end TE1s this week against a Packers defense that has given up the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing TEs to start the season.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Joe Flacco
Fantasy managers should certainly avoid Joe Flacco in all formats this week. For starters, Flacco has scored under 15 fantasy points in both games this season. He now goes up against a Packers team that might have the best defense in football. That means the veteran QB should be avoided in Superflex formats.
Quinshon Judkins is easily the most talented running back in this Green Bay backfield. He showed that in Week 2, despite only playing 20 snaps in Cleveland's Week 2 loss. However, he should be sat in most cases this weekend. The Packers are giving up just 2.4 yards per carry on the ground so far this season while allowing the sixth-fewest fantasy points to the RB position.
RB Josh Jacobs
The Browns have been one of the best run-stopping defenses this year. Opposing backs are averaging 2.1 yards per carry, and Cleveland has given up a league-low 73 rush yards through two weeks. In Week 1, Cleveland held Chase Brown to just 43 rush yards, and in Week 2, Derrick Henry had just 23 rush yards. While you aren't sitting Jacobs in most cases this week, expectations should be tempered.
Other Matchups:
QB Jordan Love
Jordan Love will enter Week 3 as a high-end QB2 against the Browns. Although Cleveland allowed four passing touchdowns to Lamar Jackson last week, this secondary did prevent Burrow from having a strong performance through the air in Week 1. So, Love is more of a QB2 this week, given his lack of rushing.
Packers WRs
With Jayden Reed out for the foreseeable future, we should expect both Matthew Golden and Romeo Doubs to see more opportunities in the passing game moving forward. However, both WRs will be flex plays at best against the Browns. Love loves to spread the ball around on offense, and the Browns CB room (Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II) has played well to start the season.
WR Jerry Jeudy
Jerry Jeudy hasn't been the most enticing fantasy option through two weeks. He has scored under 12 PPR fantasy points in both contests and has only caught nine passes in those two games. In a game where Cleveland is a big underdog, though, Jeudy could be a high-floor WR3 for fantasy managers. The Packers allowed both McLaurin and Samuel to catch 12 passes combined.
Cedric Tillman has caught a touchdown pass in both games this season. Although his touchdown last week came on a tipped ball, he has shown some nice things to begin his 2025 campaign. The big problem, though, is that Tillman only has an 18.1% target share through two weeks. Therefore, he is more of a flex play in 12-plus team leagues this week.
TE Tucker Kraft
Kraft had a career performance in last week's win over the Commanders. He caught six passes for 124 yards and one touchdown en route to an overall TE1 finish in all formats. After that monster fantasy day, you aren't sitting Kraft by any means. He will be a must-start TE1 in Week 3 against the Browns.
Update: Kraft hurt his knee in practice on Thursday.
Injuries:
- Jayden Reed (foot/clavicle) - out
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Chargers
Spread: LAC -2.5
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
QB Bo Nix
Bo Nix bounced back in a big way last week, finishing as the QB11 with 21.2 fantasy points. However, this matchup against the Chargers doesn't work in his favor. Los Angeles has allowed just one passing touchdown through two weeks and the ninth-fewest fantasy points to the position so far. If Nix can run, he'll be a better fantasy option than anticipated. But with just 38 rush yards in two games, he's more of a high-end QB2.
RB J.K. Dobbins
This whole Broncos backfield is a mess right now. J.K. Dobbins only played 45% of the team's offensive snaps in Week 2, and RJ Harvey played just 19 snaps in last week's loss. Now, this rushing attack will go up against a front seven that has yet to allow more than 50 rush yards to RBs in a game this season. So, Dobbins is more of a risky flex play, while Harvey is a must-sit.
Chargers WRs
It'll be interesting to see which Charger WR lines up opposite Patrick Surtain II. Chances are, it will be Johnston, who primarily plays the outside in Los Angeles. Surtain has only played 10% of his snaps in the slot this year. However, there's also a chance that he lines up with Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen throughout the contest and doesn't exactly shadow one WR.
With all that in mind, all Charger WRs will be downgraded this week. McConkey is more of a middle-of-the-pack WR2, Allen is a lower-end WR2, and Johnston will be a lower-end WR3. The Broncos have allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to WRs this year.
Other Matchups:
No QB has seen their fantasy value rise more in the first two weeks than Justin Herbert. Herbert has scored 27.9 fantasy points and 18.8 fantasy points in the first two weeks. Even though this matchup is tougher against an elite Broncos secondary, it's hard to sit the Chargers QB in fantasy given his start to the season. So, he'll be a low-end QB1 after Denver allowed Daniel Jones to score 22 points last week.
It's still too early to call Omarion Hampton a bust in fantasy. Rookies usually take several weeks to get accustomed to the NFL level before becoming fantasy stars. With Hampton only playing 62% of the offensive snaps last week, he is no longer in must-start territory. While Denver did allow Jonthan Taylor to rush for over 100 yards in Week 2, the rookie is more of an RB3 this week following last week's poor showing.
It was an all-around weird game for Courtland Sutton in Week 2. He only caught one pass for six yards, ran just 20 routes, and saw four targets. However, we shouldn't read too much into this stat line. He will still be a low-end WR2 in this Week 3 matchup. The Chargers allowed Marquise Brown to catch 10 passes for 99 yards in Week 1 and Jakobi Meyers to finish with six catches for 68 yards last week.
Troy Franklin could eventually emerge as a strong fantasy option this year. He totaled eight catches for 89 yards and one touchdown in last week's loss while leading the team with nine targets. No other Broncos player saw more than four targets last week. As a result, Franklin will be a potential flex play in 12-plus team leagues this weekend.
TE Evan Engram
At this point in the season, fantasy managers can't roll with Evan Engram as their TE. He played just 43% of the team's offensive snaps last week and caught one pass for 12 yards in the contest. Engram doesn't appear to be a valuable weapon in this Denver offense, making him more of a TE2 this week against the Chargers. Los Angeles held Brock Bowers in check this past Monday.
Injuries:
None
New Orleans Saints at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: SEA -7.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Alvin Kamara
It was a good sign that Alvin Kamara saw more involvement in the passing game in Week 2. After seeing just two targets in Week 1, Kamara totaled six catches for 21 yards in his last game. Now, he gets a fantastic matchup against a Seahawks defense that has allowed the most catches and receiving yards to opposing backs through two weeks. So, the Saints RB will be a nice RB2 play this weekend.
What a first few weeks it has been for Juwan Johnson. He has finished as a top-4 fantasy TE in both games this season and has an impressive 26.7% target share (TE3). Therefore, Johnson will come in as a TE1 this week against the Seahawks. Seattle has given up two touchdowns to TEs through the first two weeks while allowing 16 catches to the position so far.
Tooooo tough Juwan. Saints on the board
📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/CnIY3b3Da9
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) September 14, 2025
Matchups We Hate:
Even though Spencer Rattler finished as the overall QB10 last week, he should be avoided in Superflex formats this week. He has yet to throw for over 220 yards this season, and this Seattle secondary is legit. The Seahawks just held Rodgers in check in Week 2. So, it's best to avoid Rattler in most cases.
WR Chris Olave
The Seahawks defense has done a nice job limiting big games to WR1s through the first two weeks. Ricky Pearsall only caught four passes in Week 1, and DK Metcalf was limited to just three catches for 20 yards last week. As a result, Chris Olave will be more of a low-end WR3 this week. However, his 30.7% target share on the season should give fantasy managers confidence in rolling with him in most 12-team leagues.
Other Matchups:
QB Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold has been more of a QB2 in fantasy to start his Seattle career. He finished as the overall QB30 in Week 1 and as the QB21 this past week. Although the Saints have allowed five passing touchdowns in two weeks, Darnold will come in as a middle-of-the-pack QB2 option this week. There are better QBs to start over him for Week 3.
Seahawks RBs
It appears that this Seattle backfield will be split the entire year. Kenneth Walker III only played 35% of the team's offensive snaps last week, while Zach Charbonett played 55% of the snaps. While Walker was the more efficient back in that game, Charbonett saw a team-high 15 carries. So, it's hard to really analyze how things will play out in Week 3.
That makes both Seattle RBs riskier options this week. Although Walker posted a solid 18.8 PPR fantasy points last week, his potential limited workload puts him in the low-end RB2 category. As for Charbonett, he could be a flex play in 12-plus team leagues, considering he has seen 27 touches through two weeks.
Update: Charbonett has yet to practice this week due to a foot injury.
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is looking like one of the best value picks in the early rounds. He has been playing outside for the most part this season, which has pushed his fantasy game to another level. He has scored above 18 PPR fantasy points in both contests. Therefore, you are starting him as a solid WR1 play against the Saints.
WR Cooper Kupp
Following a disappointing Week 1 performance, Cooper Kupp bounced back in a big way in Week 2. He caught seven passes for 90 yards en route to a WR22 PPR fantasy finish. With a solid 23.1% target share through two weeks, Kupp will enter Week 3 as a potential flex play in 12-plus team leagues. Jennings scored 19.9 PPR fantasy points while working in the slot last week against this New Orleans secondary.
Injuries:
None
Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers
Spread: SF -2.5
Matchups We Love:
For the third straight week, it remains to be seen if Jauan Jennings will play. He is currently battling an ankle/shoulder injury, and his status is certainly up in the air for Week 3. Assuming he does play, he has a solid matchup ahead of him. Starting slot corner Garrett Williams has been placed on injured reserve, meaning Kei'Trel Clark will have to step up in his place. That makes Jennings a low-end WR2 this weekend.
WR Ricky Pearsall
With most of Arizona's secondary hurt at the moment, Pearsall could be in for a solid game on the outside. Rookie cornerback Will Johnson has yet to practice this week, and Max Melton is dealing with his own injury. So, the 49ers playmaker could be facing second and third-string cornerbacks in this game. Even after a mediocre fantasy game in Week 2, the second-year WR could be a solid WR3 this weekend.
TE Jake Tonges
With George Kittle (hamstring) out, Jake Tonges has seen a larger role in this San Francisco offense. He has totaled above seven PPR fantasy points in both games this season and now gets a favorable matchup against the Cardinals in Week 3. Arizona has allowed a league-leading 19 catches to TEs through two weeks. So, in 20-plus team leagues, Tonges is worth a look.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Mac Jones
Mac Jones played well against the Saints last week, throwing for 279 yards and three touchdowns. With Arizona missing some key pieces in the secondary in this game, Jones will be a solid QB2 in Superflex formats. He has now scored above 17 fantasy points in four of his past seven starts dating back to last season.
QB Kyler Murray
Murray has been somewhat of a disappointing fantasy option to start the year. He has finished outside the top-12 at the QB position in both games and has yet to top the 19-point mark this season. Even though he had two strong fantasy days against this 49ers defense last year, he will be a lower-end QB1 this week. The good news is that Murray has rushed for over 30 yards in back-to-back contests.
RB James Conner
James Conner saw his snap share decrease from 65% to 55% last week. With Trey Benson getting more involved in the passing game, that could hurt Conner's fantasy value moving forward. For this week, Conner will come in as a low-end RB2 against a San Francisco defense that is allowing just 3.6 yards per carry to opposing backs this year.
You are starting Christian McCaffrey in Week 3 against the Cardinals. McCaffrey has scored above 20 fantasy points in both games in 2025 and has finished as a top-5 RB in both weeks. Even with Jones under center last week, the 29-year-0ld playmaker caught six passes for 52 yards. So, he'll continue to be a must-start.
Fantasy managers are definitely a little panicked about Marvin Harrison Jr. after he caught just two passes for 27 yards last week. With just 11 targets through two weeks, Harrison is certainly a riskier fantasy option moving forward. He will enter Week 3 as more of a WR3. However, the 49ers have allowed over 15 PPR fantasy points to a WR in back-to-back weeks. So, he's still worth starting in most cases.
TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride will continue to be a TE1 for fantasy managers in Week 3. He has finished as a top-12 fantasy TE in consecutive weeks and has a massive 29.6% target share through two weeks. Given that the 49ers just allowed Juwan Johnson to catch five passes for 49 yards and one touchdown last week, McBride is a safe play.
Injuries:
None
Dallas Cowboys at Chicago Bears
Spread: DAL -1.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Dak Prescott
Starting many players from this game seems like a smart move. This game has the second-highest over/under of the week, meaning Dak Prescott is a strong start in Week 3. The Bears have allowed two top-12 fantasy QBs through the first two weeks, and Jared Goff just threw for 334 yards and five touchdowns against this secondary last week. So, Prescott is a strong QB1.
Caleb Williams has actually been a solid QB1 to start the season. He has scored above 17.5 fantasy points in both games and now gets a promising matchup against the Cowboys in Week 3. Look at what Russell Wilson did to this Dallas secondary a week ago. With this game expected to be a shootout, Williams will be a QB1 this weekend.
Fantasy managers have to do all they can to get Javonte Williams in their lineups this week. Williams has operated as the clear RB1 in Dallas' backfield while finishing as a top-5 fantasy RB in back-to-back weeks. Since the Bears have given up the third-most rush yards to RBs through the first two weeks, Williams is a strong RB2 play this weekend.
Bears WRs
Fantasy managers should start both Bears wide receivers this week. Although DJ Moore has been held to under 10 PPR fantasy points in both games this season, this matchup can't get better for him. Malik Nabers just torched this Dallas secondary for 167 yards and two touchdowns last week. With Moore being matched up against both Trevon Diggs and Kaiir Elam in this game, he will be a solid start.
As for Rome Odunze, he has clearly been Williams' favorite target in the passing game. He is currently the WR4 in PPR formats and should be started in every format. Since Odunze moves around the formation a ton, he should have plenty of mismatches on the outside and in the slot.
Cowboys WRs
You're starting CeeDee Lamb in fantasy every week. He will remain a top-ranked WR, especially against a Bears defense that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to the position in the early going. That also makes George Pickens a solid WR2 play this weekend. With Bears CB Jaylon Johnson (groin) out for the season, Pickens should have his way in this game. Chicago has allowed five receiving touchdowns to WRs this year.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
The Cowboys run defense has actually been solid through the first two weeks, as opposing backs are averaging just 3.9 yards per carry against this defense in the early going. However, D'Andre Swift will still be an RB2 this weekend. He has seen at least 15 touches in both games and will have plenty of chances to score in a game that has a 50.5 over/under point total.
It's pretty apparent that Prescott favors Jake Ferguson in the passing game. He saw a team-high 12 targets in last week's win, which helped him finish as the overall TE3 in PPR formats. After that encouraging fantasy day, Ferguson will be a nice TE1 play for fantasy managers in Week 3 against a Bears defense that has struggled to stop the pass through two weeks.
Injuries:
None
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Kansas City Chiefs at New York Giants
Spread: KC -6.5
Matchups We Love:
It has been a pleasant surprise seeing Patrick Mahomes running once again. He has totaled at least 55 rush yards and one touchdown in both games this season. While the passing numbers haven't necessarily been there, Mahomes could have a better day through the air in Week 3. The Giants have allowed the fourth-most pass yards through two weeks, making the Chiefs QB a must-start.
Not a lot of fantasy managers might be willing to roll with Isiah Pacheco this week. He has scored under five PPR fantasy points in both contests so far and only averaged 2.2 yards per carry on the ground last week. However, this is a fantastic matchup for Pacheco in Week 3. The Giants have allowed the most rushing yards through two weeks. Therefore, Pacheco is someone to consider in your flex this weekend.
WRs Xavier Worthy/Marquise Brown
All signs point to Xavier Worthy playing in Week 3. After missing last week's contest due to a shoulder injury, it'll be interesting to see how much he exactly plays on Sunday. Nevertheless, you're starting him as a solid WR2 this weekend in a plus matchup against New York's secondary. The Giants have allowed the second-most fantasy points to slot wide receivers this year.
Even if Worthy does suit up in Week 3, Brown could be a worthy flex play. Lamb, Pickens, and KaVontae Turpin all scored above 15 PPR fantasy points last week against the Giants. He would still be the WR2 on an offense that will score a ton of points in this game.
TE Travis Kelce
The volume hasn't necessarily been there through the first two weeks, but Travis Kelce has scored in double figures in PPR formats in both games. As a result, Kelce will be a nice TE1 option against the Giants in Week 3. New York has allowed over 11 PPR fantasy points to a TE in both contests to start the year.
Matchups We Hate:
Tyrone Tracy Jr. saw his snap share drop from 74% to 42% last week. That notable drop, mixed with this matchup against the Chiefs, makes him a must-sit in all formats this week. Kansas City has been one of the better run defenses in the NFL over the past few years, and that has continued into 2025. Opposing backs are averaging just 3.6 yards per carry on the ground so far this year.
Other Matchups:
Russell Wilson arguably had the best passing performance of his career last week against the Cowboys. He threw for 450 yards and three touchdowns en route to a 31.3 fantasy point day. However, there is no way Wilson will repeat that performance against a very solid Chiefs secondary that is hungry to get its first win. That makes Wilson a middle-of-the-pack QB2 option this weekend.
WR Malik Nabers
Malik Nabers will continue to be a must-start WR1 in Week 3 against the Chiefs. Although All-Pro corner Trent McDuffie is on the other side, he likely won't shadow Nabers throughout Sunday's game. Last week, McDuffie only shadowed A.J. Brown just under 35% of the time. So, Nabers should have a solid fantasy day.
Robinson is coming off a career performance in which he totaled eight catches for 142 yards and one touchdown. He has continued to operate as the team's WR2 and will enter Week 3 with a 24.7% target share. While it's too early to tell if Robinson is legit, he can be a solid flex play this week. Just two weeks ago, the Chiefs allowed solid games in the slot to both Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey.
Injuries:
- Xavier Worthy (shoulder) - questionable
Matchup Analysis - Monday Night Football
Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens
Spread: BAL -4.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Jared Goff
Goff has a prime opportunity in front of him in Week 3. He is coming off a five-touchdown game, and the Ravens have struggled to prevent big fantasy days to QBs since the beginning of last year. Therefore, the Lions signal-caller is a low-end QB1 in a game that should feature a ton of points with two electric offenses.
TE Sam LaPorta
Despite Goff throwing for over 300 yards and five touchdowns last week, LaPorta didn't do much in the receiving game. He caught just three passes for 26 yards. However, this is a perfect bounce-back opportunity for LaPorta against a Ravens defense that allowed nine catches to Cleveland TEs last week. So, he'll be a nice TE1 play.
Matchups We Hate:
TE Mark Andrews
There is no way that any fantasy manager can start Mark Andrews this week. He caught just one pass for five yards in Week 1 and totaled one catch for two yards in last week's blowout win. On top of that, Isiah Likely has a chance to suit up in this game. Given that the Lions held Kraft to just two catches for 16 yards back in Week 1, Andrews is a must-start on Monday night.
Other Matchups:
QB Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson will continue to be a must-start QB in Week 3. He has scored above 26 fantasy points in both games this season, and this game on Monday should feature a ton of points. So, you're starting Jackson in all formats.
Lions RBs
Jahmyr Gibbs will remain a must-start RB1 option for fantasy managers. His versatility in both the running and passing game means he needs to be in all fantasy lineups. As for David Montgomery, he will be more of an RB3 this weekend against the Ravens. He has played under 40% of the team's offensive snaps in both games, and Baltimore has had one of the better run defenses since last year.
RB Derrick Henry
After last week's dud, Henry will look to bounce back in Week 3 against the Lions. Even though this matchup is a tougher one for Henry, you are still starting him in every format. Detroit has a solid run defense, but this unit has allowed a rushing touchdown in back-to-back games. So, the 31-year-old veteran needs to be started everywhere.
WR Zay Flowers
Zay Flowers has been awesome for fantasy managers in the early going. He finished as the overall WR1 back in Week 1 and has caught seven passes in both contests so far. Flowers is also commanding a whopping 42.6% target share. As a result, Flowers is a must-start WR2 this week. Look at what Odunze did in the slot against Detroit's secondary last week (seven catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns).
Amon-Ra St. Brown was spectacular in last week's blowout win over the Bears. He totaled nine catches for 115 yards and three touchdowns. Following that performance, you are starting the Pro Bowl wideout in every format.
The good news for Jameson Williams is that he got into the end zone last week. The bad news is that he caught only two passes and was targeted just four times. Therefore, Williams will be more of a WR3 in Week 3. The Ravens defense ranks middle of the pack in yards per completion allowed this season, which is where Williams finds most of his success.
Injuries:
None
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