Bijan Robinson a Top Option at RB With High Floor
Bijan Robinson has begun the season with three straight games with at least 100 yards from scrimmage, and given his involvement in the passing game, he's got one of the highest floors of any running back in the league. In addition to his 239 yards rushing, the 5-foot-11 back has 14 catches on 18 targets with 164 yards receiving thus far, with his lone touchdown coming through the air as well. Week 4 brings a home matchup against a Washington defense that has been good against the run, yielding only 100.7 rush yards per game and has allowed just one touchdown via the rush. Still, even if Atlanta takes to the air, Robinson will be a key piece, owning a solid 17.31 percent target share. After scoring 14 touchdowns on the ground last season, expect the 23-year-old to get in on the ground sooner rather than later in 2025, perhaps as soon as this Sunday. The former eighth-overall draft pick is locked in as a top option at running back, and that includes this week against the Commanders.
Source: ESPN
Atlanta Falcons running back Source: ESPN
Brett Baty May Have Season-Ending Oblique Injury
Brett Baty (oblique) injured his right oblique on Friday and may be done for the season, manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters. After Baty left a 6-2 loss to the Miami Marlins in the second inning, the Mets brought in Ronny Mauricio to replace him at third base. The club will have more information on Baty's status on Saturday, but with just two regular-season games left, he seems unlikely to play this weekend. With oblique injuries often leading to lengthy absences, Baty may not be available for the start of a wild-card series on Sept. 30 if the Mets rally to earn a playoff berth. They and Cincinnati have the same record (82-78), but the Reds own the NL's last playoff spot based on the tiebreaker.
Source: Laura Albanese - Newsday
New York Mets infielder Source: Laura Albanese - Newsday
Isaac TeSlaa's Role in Lions' Offense to Remain Limited in Week 4?
Isaac TeSlaa recorded two catches for 42 yards and a touchdown across his first two NFL games, but he was held catchless in Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens. The 24-year-old also played just 21% of the Lions' offensive snaps after playing 29% in Week 2. TeSlaa is a talented ball-winner with some season-long upside, but he simply does not have a big enough role in Detroit's offense right now to be fantasy relevant. TeSlaa remains a stash candidate in deep leagues, but he should not be started in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions rookie wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Courtland Sutton Draws a Decent Matchup Versus Cincinnati
Courtland Sutton is coming off a six-catch, 118-yard, one-touchdown effort in the Week 3 loss to the Chargers. He currently leads the team in receiving yards (185), receiving touchdowns (two), and targets (21). Although some believed Troy Franklin was making his case to become the top wideout on the depth chart after catching eight passes for 89 yards and a touchdown in Week 2 versus the Colts, he fizzled against Los Angeles. With that in mind, Sutton should remain quarterback Bo Nix's go-to receiving option, even with Evan Engram (back) expected to return for the Monday night meeting with the Bengals. While Sutton will presumably have some off weeks moving forward, especially with Nix having production issues, he can continue to be viewed as a starting option in any fantasy format in Week 4.
Source: ESPN
Denver Broncos wide receiver Source: ESPN
Jake Bates a Must-Start Kicker in Week 4?
Jake Bates has made just four out of six field goal tries so far this season, but one of his misses was from 67 yards out. Perhaps most importantly for his fantasy outlook, Bates is currently leading the NFL in extra-point attempts and makes (13) for the second-straight season. Detroit faces a difficult matchup in the Cleveland Browns in Week 4, who have been one of the NFL's best defenses so far in 2025. That could lead to more field goal opportunities for Bates if the Lions have some success moving the ball, but the Browns can hold them out of the end zone. Bates also gets the advantage this week of playing an indoor home game at Ford Field. Heading into Week 4, Bates profiles as a high-end starting fantasy kicker.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions kicker Source: RotoBaller
Yordan Alvarez Done for Regular Season
Yordan Alvarez (ankle) for the rest of the regular season as a result of a "significant" ankle sprain. Alvarez, who last played Sept. 15, could return for the postseason if the Astros overtake the Detroit Tigers for the last AL wild-card spot. The Astros are sitting a half-game back, and they'd likely be in a better position had Alvarez stayed healthy this season. Before succumbing to an ankle injury, the star slugger sat out from May 3 to Aug. 25 with a fractured right hand. He was in tremendous form during a brief 19-game return, going 24-for-65 (.369) with three homers, nine RBI, and 10 runs scored. Over 48 games and 199 plate appearances this year, Alvarez slashed .273/.367/.430 with six HRs, 27 RBI, and 17 runs.
Source: Matt Kawahara - Houston Chronicle
The Houston Astros have officially ruled out designated hitter Source: Matt Kawahara - Houston Chronicle
Lions Defense a Must-Start Unit in Week 4?
Lamar Jackson seven times. Detroit now gets an easier matchup on paper in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns. Through their first three games, the Browns have scored just 46 points and rank last in the NFL in yards per pass attempt (five). Additionally, Browns quarterback Joe Flacco has thrown four interceptions. Heading into Week 4, the Lions' defense profiles as a must-start unit.
Source: RotoBaller
The Detroit Lions' defense allowed 30 points in Week 3 to the Baltimore Ravens, but the unit also forced a fumble and sacked Ravens quarterback Source: RotoBaller
Sam LaPorta Searching for Breakout Game Heading into Week 4
Sam LaPorta has had a quiet start to his 2025 season, recording 13 catches for 138 yards and zero touchdowns on 17 targets so far. Things don't get any easier on paper for LaPorta in Week 4, as he'll face a Cleveland Browns defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards in the NFL so far this season. On the bright side for the 24-year-old, he still ranks third on the Lions in targets behind wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. If Cleveland's fierce pass rush forces Lions quarterback Jared Goff to get the ball out quickly, LaPorta could see a good number of short and intermediate-area pass attempts come his way. LaPorta remains a must-start fantasy tight end in Week 4, but it may be time for fantasy managers to begin adjusting preseason expectations.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions tight end Source: RotoBaller
Zach Ertz A Low-End TE1 in Week 4
Zach Ertz has gotten off to a strong start to the 2025 season, catching 12 of 16 targets for 128 yards and two touchdowns. Ertz had his quietest game of the young season in last week's blowout win against Las Vegas, catching all three targets for 38 yards. Washington opted for a run-heavy game plan and got ahead big in the second half. Ertz projects for more volume against Atlanta with star receiver Terry McLaurin (quad) out and Noah Brown (groin) missing his second straight game. He'll look to connect early and often with Marcus Mariota, from whom he caught two touchdowns in his short time playing last season. Ertz can be trusted as a low-end TE1 in Week 4.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders tight end Source: RotoBaller
Jameson Williams Remains a Boom/Bust WR3 Option in Week 4
Jameson Williams has struggled to be a consistent target-earner early in the 2025 season. Through his first three games, Williams ranks fourth on the Lions in targets (12) and has recorded eight catches for 171 yards and a touchdown. The 24-year-old is leading the league in yards per reception (21.8) and remains an explosive big-play threat, but his lack of target volume makes him difficult for fantasy managers to trust. Williams and the Lions face a difficult matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards (521) in the NFL so far this year. As such, it may be difficult for Lions quarterback Jared Goff to find Williams on the deep-ball targets that Williams is reliant on for fantasy production. In Week 4, Williams profiles as a boom/bust WR3/flex option for fantasy managers.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Bo Nix Hoping to Get it Together Against the Bengals
Bo Nix has had his share of ups and downs through the first three weeks of the season. He threw two interceptions and completed only 62.5% of his attempts in the Week 1 win over the Titans. While the signal-caller played much better in Week 2, his efforts weren't enough to lead Denver to another win. Most recently in Week 3 versus the Los Angeles Chargers, Nix would finish that one by tossing for 153 yards and one touchdown off a rough 14-for-25 passing (56.0%). Without question, he hasn't been the most reliable fantasy quarterback. Although Nix has a chance to get it together on Monday night against the Bengals, a team that could be without Shemar Stewart (ankle) and Cam Taylor-Britt (hamstring), fantasy managers in single-QB setups will still be rolling the dice by starting him. On the other hand, Nix should still find a home in Superflex lineups, especially with so many ailing quarterbacks around the National Football League.
Source: ESPN
Denver Broncos quarterback Source: ESPN
Amon-Ra St. Brown Looking to Continue Early-Season Success in Week 4
Amon-Ra St. Brown is off to a stellar start to the 2025 season, recording 20 catches for 237 yards and four touchdowns through his first three games. St. Brown has been targeted a team-high 25 times and is the clear number one option in Detroit's passing game. The Lions offense has a difficult matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards (521) in the NFL so far. However, St. Brown is a receiver who can win in the short and intermediate areas, so he could still see a high target volume even in the Lions' struggle to push the ball downfield. St. Brown is a must-start fantasy wide receiver in Week 4.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Chris Moore Set For More Action in Week 4
Chris Moore is set to likely play a season high in snaps in Week 4 against Atlanta. With Terry McLaurin (quad) and Noah Brown (groin) out for the game, Washington's depth options at receiver will be forced to step up. Moore was signed to the active roster from the practice squad earlier in the week, then ran the most routes among Washington receivers in last week's blowout win against the Raiders. The veteran will likely run a heavy number of routes again and serve as a reliable target for Marcus Mariota. Moore caught both of his targets for 25 yards against the Raiders, and he was active for the season opener against the Giants, where he caught his lone target for a 34-yard gain. He's not an option to consider in Week 4 lineups.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
David Montgomery Facing NFL's Best Run Defense in Week 4
David Montgomery was one of the stars of his team's Week 3 win over the Baltimore Ravens, rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries. The 28-year-old has now recorded 233 yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries through his first three games of 2025. Montgomery gets a brutal matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fewest rushing yards (172) in the NFL so far and just one rushing touchdown. Even with the big game in Week 3, Montgomery is averaging just 13.3 touches per contest and remains highly dependent on touchdowns for fantasy production. The Lions have a potent offense, but this may be a difficult week for them against the Browns. In Week 4, Montgomery profiles as a low-end fantasy RB3/flex option.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions running back Source: RotoBaller
Marquise Brown Without An Injury Designation For Ravens Matchup
Marquise Brown was listed on the injury report with an ankle injury, but practiced fully all week and does not have an injury designation for Sunday's matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Brown was still the suspected WR1 heading into last week's game against the New York Giants after leading the team in targets through the first two weeks, but it didn't result in great fantasy production. The Chiefs speedster finished the game with a respectable four catches for 42 yards on six targets. Brown's target share should diminish this week with the return of Xavier Worthy. The positive news is that the Chiefs are facing the Ravens, who have been the highest scoring offense through the first three weeks. Baltimore has been middle-of-the-pack in fantasy points allowed to wide receivers this season, but the Chiefs are second in the league in pass rate over expectation, so the points they score should come through the air. Patrick Mahomes tends to spread the ball around, with four receivers with at least four catches last week, but there should be plenty of opportunities for Brown to make his mark. Brown is ranked WR41 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, making him a WR3/Flex option this week.
Source: NFL.com
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Source: NFL.com
Jaylin Lane To See More Run on Offense in Week 4?
Jaylin Lane could see more snaps on offense in Week 4 against Atlanta with multiple injuries at receiver. Terry McLaurin (quad) and Noah Brown (groin) will both miss Sunday's game, which opens the door for Lane to step in and run more routes. The rookie ran 45% of routes in Week 2 with everyone healthy, and increased to 50% with Brown out of the lineup. There is some noise with his Week 3 number, as it was a blowout game script. But he could stand to see more with players injured, and after his stellar 90-yard punt return touchdown last week, which earned him the Pepsi Rookie of the Week honors. Week 4 against Atlanta will be a notable game for Lane and his role moving forward.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
J.K. Dobbins Looking to Extend Touchdown Streak to Four Games on Monday Night
J.K. Dobbins has led the way for the team through the first three weeks of the 2025 campaign. Many assumed RJ Harvey would have a more prominent role in the offense, although that hasn't happened, with the rookie receiving only two attempts in the Week 3 loss to the Chargers. Harvey will presumably see more involvement at some point moving forward. However, it appears Dobbins remains the favorite to handle most of the snaps out of the backfield, at least for now. The 26-year-old has 222 yards off 41 carries this season. Even better, he's found the end zone in each of Denver's first three games. All things considered, Dobbins should be classified as a must-start in all fantasy formats on Monday night versus the Cincinnati Bengals, a club that surrendered two rushing touchdowns to Jordan Mason in Week 3.
Source: ESPN
Denver Broncos running back Source: ESPN
Patrick Mahomes Removed From Injury Report, Ready For AFC Showdown
Patrick Mahomes was listed on the injury report with a right wrist injury, but practiced fully all week and was removed from the report ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Mahomes was listed on last week's injury report with the same wrist issue, but practiced fully and played last week. The Chiefs quarterback completed 22 of his 37 pass attempts (60%) for 224 yards and a touchdown in the team's 22-9 victory over the New York Giants last week. Mahomes had his worst fantasy output of this season in Week 3 despite winning the game by a comfortable margin. The former MVP will get the chance to bounce back this week against another AFC powerhouse in the Ravens. Baltimore has been an advantageous matchup to begin the season, allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks to start the year. The Ravens offense is also first in points per game this season, which makes this matchup a potential shootout. This game has an over/under of 48.5, making it tied for the second-highest total of the week. Mahomes should also benefit from the return of Xavier Worthy after he missed the last few games with a dislocated shoulder. Mahomes is ranked QB7 in our RotoBaller rankings this week, making him a strong start. The stars are aligning for the Chiefs superstar to have a big game, and he is capable of delivering.
Source: NFL.com
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Source: NFL.com
Kaleb Johnson to Get Involved in Week 4?
Kaleb Johnson was active in Week 3, he did not play a snap following a costly special teams error in Week 2. On Friday, head coach Mike Tomlin complimented the rookie's work ethic, stating that he has "positioned himself to be a contributor" in Dublin, Ireland against the Minnesota Vikings. Exactly how many offensive opportunities he will see remains unclear, though Tomlin confirmed that Johnson will not handle kick returns. With starter Jaylen Warren (knee) banged up, Johnson could mix in with veteran Kenneth Gainwell if all three backs are active. If Warren is limited or unexpectedly ruled out, Johnson's role could expand significantly. He is not a viable fantasy starter this week, especially against a strong Minnesota run defense, but the University of Iowa product is worth stashing ahead of Sunday's contest.
Source: Pittsburgh Steelers
Although Pittsburgh Steelers running back Source: Pittsburgh Steelers
Michael Penix Jr. a Speculative QB2 Play Against Washington
Michael Penix Jr. had a week to forget in Week 3, completing just 50 percent of his passes (18-for-36) with no touchdowns and two interceptions in the 30-0 blowout loss to the Panthers. The 25-year-old now has just a 1:2 TD:INT through three contests, with the lone touchdown coming on a 50-yard catch-and-run to Bijan Robinson in Week 1. The former first-rounder will have a home matchup with the Commanders in Week 4, a defense that has yielded the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing QBs through the first three weeks, including a three-touchdown performance from an aging Geno Smith last week, and has only given up just one rushing score thus far. Even so, Atlanta may try to lean on Robinson and the run game for as long as they can in this matchup, as the lefty QB has one of the lowest completion rates (58.6 percent), a poor QBR (71.3), low yards per pass attempt (6.1), and per completion (10.43). As a result, Penix sets up as a borderline QB2/3 in Week 4.
Source: ESPN
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Source: ESPN
Deebo Samuel Sr. A High-End Option in Week 4
Deebo Samuel Sr. projects as a favorable fantasy option in Week 4 against the Falcons. Both other starting wide receivers, Terry McLaurin (quad) and Noah Brown (groin), are out for the game. The passing game plan will likely feature a heavy dose of Samuel underneath and on crossing routes, setting him up for a productive day. Kliff Kingsbury will also look to replicate their dominance in the ground game from last week, and that could involve getting Samuel a few touches as a runner. He handled three carries for 18 yards last week and had his quietest game as a Commander, with just two receptions for 11 yards. Samuel looks like the focal point of the passing attack for Week 4 and should be fired up as a high-end WR2.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders wide receiver Source: RotoBaller
Chris Boswell Should Get Back on Track in Ireland
Chris Boswell was limited to extra-point duties in Week 3's win over the New England Patriots but will look for more opportunities against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4. The Vikings have been stout defensively this season, especially near the red zone, allowing just four offensive touchdowns but seven field goals -- tied for sixth-most in the NFL. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers' offense still finding its footing, this international matchup in Dublin, Ireland is projected to be a low-scoring affair. That puts Boswell in a position to play a key role on Sunday morning and remain a must-start fantasy option.
Source: RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Source: RotoBaller
Jeremy McNichols A Desperation Play in Week 4
Jeremy McNichols had one of the highlight plays of the week with a beast mode-style run for a 60-yard touchdown last week against the Raiders. McNichols played the fewest of any Washington back at 23% and had only four carries, but he made the most of his opportunities. The 29-year-old is expected to fill in for Austin Ekeler as the team's third-down back because of his prowess as a pass protector and capability as a receiver. That opens the door for some dump-off passes and checkdowns, making him slightly intriguing. He will mix in occasionally on early downs and earn a few carries, but it won't be huge. McNichols is a desperation start against Atlanta in Week 4.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders running back Source: RotoBaller
Jahmyr Gibbs Searching for Improved Rushing Efficiency in Week 4
Jahmyr Gibbs is averaging just 4.2 yards per carry, significantly worse than the 5.6 yards per carry he posted in 2024. Still, Gibbs has been highly productive for fantasy, recording 253 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns on 61 total touches. The third-year back has been heavily featured in the passing game, ranking second on the team in targets (19) behind only star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown. Gibbs gets a tough matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fewest rushing yards in the NFL (172) through three weeks. Gibbs' involvement as a receiver gives him a steady floor, but he may struggle to find success as a rusher against the Browns. In Week 4, Gibbs profiles as a low-end fantasy RB1.
Source: RotoBaller
Through his first three games of 2025, Detroit Lions running back Source: RotoBaller
Tony Pollard has Flex Appeal for Week 4
Tony Pollard was able to find the end zone for the first time this season during last week's game against the Indianapolis Colts. Pollard rushed the ball 16 times for 45 yards with one touchdown in the loss. It hasn't been a great start to the season for Pollard, but he has seen 16 rushing attempts or more in every game. The 28-year-old is clearly the workhorse back in Tennessee right now. The Titans have changed over play-calling duties, so hopefully that will help this offense. Pollard is a fine flex play for the upcoming Week 4 matchup against the Houston Texans.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Tennessee Titans running back Source: Pro Football Reference
Jared Goff Facing Difficult Week 4 Matchup
Jared Goff has been playing at a high level so far in 2025, completing 77.9% of his pass attempts for 761 yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception through his first three games. Goff has a difficult matchup in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns. Through three games, Cleveland has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards in the NFL (521) and has recorded 11 sacks, tied for the fourth-most in the league. Goff may struggle to move his offense up and down the field against Cleveland as easily as he has over the past two weeks against the Chicago Bears and Baltimore Ravens. In Week 4, Goff profiles as a solid fantasy QB2 in two-quarterback formats, but he should be avoided where possible in single-QB leagues.
Source: RotoBaller
Detroit Lions quarterback Source: RotoBaller
Cameron Ward a Shaky Option for Week 4
Cameron Ward (ankle, calf) is ready to go after getting in back-to-back full practice sessions. Ward was limited to begin the week due to multiple minor injuries, but is fine for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans. It has been a slow start for the No. 1 overall pick. Ward has completed 54 of 99 passing attempts for 506 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in three games. It's worth noting that quarterbacks coach Bo Hardegree will take over play-calling this weekend. Possibly, Hardegree can unlock something out of Ward that Brian Callahan couldn't. At the moment, Ward is really only worth considering in superflex leagues.
Source: titans.com
Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Source: titans.com
Chris Rodriguez Jr. Has Touchdown Upside in Week 4
Chris Rodriguez Jr. led the backfield in carries last week against the Raiders and ran well overall, gaining 39 yards on 11 rushes. His role for Week 4 against Atlanta could look similar. In the team's first game without Austin Ekeler, Rodriguez surprisingly started at running back and began with four straight carries to begin the game. The rotation afterwards was a bit sporadic, with Rodriguez and Jacory Croskey-Merritt both splitting most of the work, and then Jeremy McNichols subbed in on pass downs and handled a few touches. The situation remains very fluid in Washington's backfield, and it could remain unclear for the coming weeks. Rodriguez is set up as the hammer back who can grind out tough yardage, and he tied Croskey-Merritt with two goal-line carries last week. There is upside for a touchdown plunge for Rodriguez in Week 4.
Source: RotoBaller
Washington Commanders running back Source: RotoBaller
J.J. McCarthy Could Practice Next Week
J.J. McCarthy (ankle) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's Week 4 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Unsurprisingly, McCarthy won't play this weekend as he's expected to miss another week or two. However, head coach Kevin O'Connell mentioned McCarthy could get in limited work ahead of next week's contest versus the Cleveland Browns. It doesn't mean that McCarthy will play in Week 5, but getting on the field is the first step. The most likely scenario is that McCarthy returns after the bye in Week 7. In the meantime, Carson Wentz will be under center until McCarthy is healthy enough to play. Fantasy managers should check back for another update on McCarthy's status next week.
Source: startribune.com
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Source: startribune.com
Pittsburgh D/ST Back on Streaming Radar in Week 4
Carson Wentz. Although EDGE Alex Highsmith (ankle) has been ruled out, the Steelers are getting healthier with safety DeShon Elliott (knee) returning and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring) questionable after a limited practice on Friday. With reinforcements on the way and a low-scoring game script expected, Pittsburgh's DST profiles as a strong streaming candidate this week.
Source: ESPN
Following a brutal start to the campaign, the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense bounced back in a Week 3 win, holding the New England Patriots to 14 points while piling up five turnovers and five sacks. The debut of rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon helped open lanes for Cameron Heyward and T.J. Watt, who each notched their first sacks of the year. Now the Steelers will head to Dublin, Ireland, to take on the Minnesota Vikings on an international stage in Week 4. The Vikings hung 48 points on the Cincinnati Bengals last week, but Pittsburgh should fare better against the Minnesota offense led by backup quarterback
Source: ESPN