This week the SNS Weekly Rookie Fantasy Football Report & Rankings is FREE!!
Week Three Notable Rookie Performances –
De’Von Achane / RB / Miami
Readers of SNS know what kind of athlete with true world class speed that Achane is and how dynamic and explosive he is with the ball in space. Well, now, the entire fantasy football world is aware what a difference maker Achane is. On Sunday, Achane rushed for 203 yards, caught four passes (on four targets) for 30 yards, and scored two TDs in Miami’s record setting route of Denver, winning 70-20. Achane split carries with Rasheem Mostert and showed his true world class speed (10.14 100-meter / 4.32 40-yard dash time) against the overmatched Denver defense. Achane is not built for a large number of touches in any single game but is a difference maker that should be targeted in all scoring formats.
CJ Stroud & Tank Dell / Houston
Stroud has settled in quite nicely in Houston as the Texans QB of the future and is proving to be a quality fantasy football option in the present, too. Stroud had his most modest statistical game in the Texans upset of the Jaguars but he still turned in a solid performance throwing for 280 yards and two TDs. Stroud has played himself into fantasy relevance very early in his promising career.
Dell is proving to be Stroud’s favorite target in the passing game offering agility, route running skill, physicality, and strong hands to the Texans’ offense. He is both reliable and a playmaker and can be counted on to execute his assignments and play like an experienced veteran. On Sunday, Dell hauled in five passes (on seven targets) for 145 yards and a TD. Dell ‘s fantasy value only seems destined to rises as the season progresses.
Sam LaPorta / TE / Detroit Lions
The Lions came into Sunday with a depleted two-deep roster after a slew of injuries suffered against Seattle. But Dan Campbell’s staff realized that Atlanta could not match the athletic LaPorta in space whose speed, quickness, and agility was impossible for the Falcons to stop. LaPorta scored his first career TD and caught eight passes (11 targets) for 84 yards on Sunday. If your TEs have underperformed, LaPorta should be your top priority when the waiver wire opens up Tuesday morning.
BYE WEEK PREP 101 – FREE AGENT ROOKIES to TARGET
Bye weeks are starting in two weeks. How does your roster depth look? Are you concerned that your TEs aren’t producing? How about your QBs? Are you looking at your roster and trying to forecast who will carry your teams as injuries begin to take a toll? Look no further! SNS has you covered with a list of the FIVE LIKELY ROOKIE FREE AGENTS to ADD to YOUR TEAM….NOW!
1. De’Von Achane / RB / Miami
Don’t expect a week 3 performance again anytime soon, but Miami has one of the fastest groups of skill position players since the early 70’s Raiders, and will utilize a mix of Tyreke Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Raheem Mostert, and Achane, who all have serious speed to burn, as interchangeable difference makers in a record setting offense. Achane has secured playing time from this point on. Add him now. You’re unlikely to get a better chance to add such an explosive playmaker to your team again this season.
2. Tank Dell / WR / Houston
Dell offers a complete WR with a more advanced skill set than most rookie WRs. Additionally, he was drafted to be developed along with Stroud and their chemistry has noticeably been advancing throughout OTAs, minicamps, training camp, and the early season. Dell only figures to become more fantasy relevant as the 2023 season gets rolling.
3. Sam LaPorta / TE / Detroit
LaPorta is a complete TE who can line up in any set the Lions choose to roll out. He has great hands, good concentration, and very good athleticism. And with the injuries and suspension impacting the Lions’ skill position depth, LaPorta is the #2 receiving option in the potent Detroit offense. Add him to your team now.
4. CJ Stroud / QB / Houston
If your fantasy QB has been injured (Burrow) or underperforming (Wilson, Fields), there is a simple low cost way to get a possible solution – claim the Texans’ starting QB and stream other options later in the season. Currently, Houston will continue to ride with Stroud. And as they figure to be trailing most weeks of the season, he’ll be given the reins and required to execute comebacks – often a winning combination in fantasy football.
5. Luke Musgrave / TE / Green Bay
If LaPorta is unavailable in your league (perhaps another reader of SNS beat you to the punch?), Musgrave is a prospect on the rise as his use in the Packers’ offense continues to increase. On Sunday, Musgrave was targeted eight times, catching six passes for 49 yards. Musgrave’s size is sure to become of use in the Packers’ red zone offense as the season proceeds. Musgrave’s fantasy value seems to be going up from here. Time to get him now, before you suffer another case of FOMO.
Rookie Fantasy Football Rankings
Quarterbacks
1. CJ Stroud Houston (+1)
Stroud has two primary reasons why he has become the rare rookie QB worthy of starting in fantasy football – 1) stays calm under pressure and delivers accurate passes, on-time. 2) Displays the most important ability, avail-ability. Unlike fellow rookie QBs Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson, Stroud has played all three games, is built for the QB position with a solid frame and good size, is primarily a pocket passer, and has a very good offensive line providing him reliable protection.
2. Anthony Richardson Indianapolis (-1)
Richardson missed Sunday’s start recovering from a concussion. Concussions are difficult to predict when the player will be cleared by the NFL. Monitor his status as the week progresses.
3. Bryce Young Carolina (-)
Young missed the loss to Seattle with an ankle injury and may not be available for another week or two.
Running Backs
1. Bijan Robinson Atlanta (-)
Robinson finally had a typical rookie fantasy outing, rushing for only 33 yards and catching four passes (on six targets) for 27 yards. Worse yet, he got nowhere near the end zone. Better days lie ahead for the Falcons’ franchise RB.
2. Jahmyr Gibbs Detroit (-)
Lions’ fans have been nearly apoplectic about the limited production received so far from the #12 pick in last April’s draft. After Sunday, they have reason to relax. With David Montgomery missing for the next few weeks, Gibbs became Detroit’s feature back after rushing for 80 yards as part of the committee approach in place in the Motor City and displayed his elite burst while consistently getting to the second level of the defense. Good fantasy days are almost here for Gibbs in Detroit.
3. De’Von Achane Miami (NEW)
Achane had one of the best fantasy performances of the season so far but be forewarned, it isn’t likely to happen again anytime soon. First, they don’t play Denver again, and 2) Miami is clearly a RB by committee approach and Raheem Mostert had a monster game on Sunday, too. So, opportunities are likely limited each week. Achane should still be a fantasy priority when the waiver wire opens up. Just don’t freak out when he doesn’t match this Tecmo Bowl scoring again.
4. Roschon Johnson Chicago (-)
The Bears’ offense is horrid right now, reducing the value of any individual skill position player. Johnson seems to be wresting control of the primary RB job, especially since Khalil Herbert has been unproductive through the first three games of the season. Johnson gained 38 yards rushing and caught two passes (on two targets) for 11 yards on Sunday. Monitor Johnson’s use going forward.
5. Zach Charbonnet Seattle (-)
Charbonnet has seized the backup RB job in Seattle behind Kenneth Walker. On Sunday, Charbonnet rushed for 46 yards and caught one pass (on two targets). And since the Seahawks prioritize running the football, Charbonnet will have fantasy value all season long.
6. Tyjae Spears Tennessee (-2)
Spears was barely used in the Titans loss to the Browns gaining only nine total yards and four catches (on four targets). Only Derrick Henry owners should consider rostering Spears at this time.
7. Kendre Miller New Orleans (+4)
Jamaal Williams has been placed on IR, opening up an opportunity for Miller to contribute. Miller got his first playing time on the year and the Horned Frog displayed potential, rushing for 34 yards and catching the only pass thrown his way (zero yards). Miller may prove worthy of a roster slot later this year.
8. Tank Bigsby Jacksonville (-2)
Bigsby resumed his goal line RB role on Sunday, gaining 10 yards rushing and scoring a TD, making it two TDs scored so far this year. Bigsby should be monitored as Trevor Etienne’s backup as the season progresses.
9. Sean Tucker Tampa Bay (-2)
Tucker has locked up the #2 RB job in Tampa. Unfortunately, Tampa struggles running the ball and the line has trouble opening holes. Monitor Tampa and keep an eye on Tucker going forward.
10. Chris Rodriguez Washington (+1)
Rodriguez received no touches this week and his value will be limited to some goal line carries this year. No need to roster him at this time.
11. Eric Gray NY Giants (-2)
Gray did not receive any offensive opportunities on Thursday but was the team’s primary kick returner. However, he has no fantasy value and should not be rostered at this time.
12. Zach Evans LA Rams (-2)
It is still difficult to determine the depth chart in LA since Cam Akers was traded to Minnesota last week and Evans did not record any statistics on Monday night. Keep an eye on LA. Williams is the #1 RB but his backup still needs to be figured out.
13. Evan Hull Indianapolis (-1)
Hull tore his meniscus, has been placed on IR, and is out for the season.
Wide Receivers
1. Puka Nacua LA Rams (-)
We knew it had to end at some point, right? After making an NFL record 25 receptions over the first two games of the season, Nacua only recorded five receptions (on seven targets) for 72 yards Monday night. Nacua has been dealing with a minor injury that may be slowing him down a little. Still, 30 receptions over the first three weeks is a tremendous mark. Nacua’s role in your fantasy lineup should remain secure.
2. Tank Dell Houston (+2)
Dell is on the brink of becoming a weekly starter in fantasy football as he becomes CJ Stroud’s go-to receiver. Houston has a good offensive line but has a paucity of legitimate weapons. Dell is quick and has very reliable hands. Add him to your roster this week, or live to regret it. He’s a must add this week.
3. Jordan Addison Minnesota (-1)
Addison has carved out a defined role in the high scoring Vikings offense. On Sunday, Addison caught six passes (on eight targets) for 52 yards. Addison will see is value only increase with bye weeks starting in two weeks.
4. Zay Flowers Baltimore (-)
The Ravens offense has experienced an unsettling amount of injuries at both RB (Dobbins, Hill) and WR (Beckham) and are only beginning to ramp up use of their dynamic rookie WR. Flowers was targeted ten times on Sunday, catching eight passes for 48 yards. Flowers doesn’t figure to get too many red zone opportunities but has the speed and quickness to go the distance on any catch. Flowers should be a high floor, low ceiling prospect for the rest of the season.
5. Jayden Reed Green Bay (-)
Reed, like Flowers, is a great underneath target and dangerous on jet sweeps and reverses. And like Flowers, Reed is unlikely to be targeted near the end zone and will not score a ton of TDs. Reed caught three passes (on seven targets) for 63 yards in the Packers come from behind victory. Reed fills a niche in Green Bay’s offense and will be an ideal bye week replacement for your team.
6. Josh Downs Indianapolis (-)
Downs is a dangerous slot receiver in the Colts’ improving pass game. On Sunday, Downs was targeted 12 times, making eight catches for 57 yards in Indianapolis’ overtime victory over Baltimore. Down will become increasingly valuable as bye weeks are set to begin.
7. Marvin Mims Denver (+1)
After displaying his elite deep speed and agility on both targets last week, Mims was targeted five times, catching three passes for 73 yards and returning one kickoff for a 99-yard TD. Denver figures to trail a lot this year and Mims has difference making talent. Mims has potential to be a quality fantasy football starting option when bye weeks arrive.
8. Dontayvion Wicks Green Bay (+6)
Christian Watson is still recovering from a hamstring injury, opening up opportunities for the former Virginia Cavalier to contribute this season. On Sunday, Wicks caught four passes (on six targets) for 45 yards. Wicks’ combination of size and speed is destined to be used in the red zone, potentially giving him streaming value this season.
9. Jalin Hyatt NY Giants (-2)
One week after exploding on the scene, Hyatt once again disappeared receiving no targets. The Giants’ offense struggled against the 49ers and their offensive line is dealing with a rash of injuries. They struggled to protect Daniel Jones and he never had the time to throw a deep pass. Hyatt has great speed, but no matter how fast he is, no QB can completes passes from his back.
10. Quentin Johnston LA Chargers (-2)
Johnston is finding himself the odd man out in a crowded Chargers WR room, seeing only three targets, making two catches for 10 yards. However, that may all be changing after Mike Williams suffered a season-ending ACL tear on Sunday. Johnston still needs to earn more playing time but the opportunity seems to have arrived.
11. Rashee Rice Kansas City (-1)
Rice is beginning to build a rapport with Patrick Mahomes, which portends good things for the future. Rice was targeted seven times on Sunday, making five catches for 59 yards. His use will be sporadic this year due to the depth of the WR position, but he has streaming potential when bye weeks commence.
12. Michael Wilson Arizona (-1)
Wilson has become a primary deep threat for the Cardinals, making him a feast or famine type fantasy option this season. On Sunday, Wilson grabbed both targets for 86 yards. He is a deep threat but at this point, that’s all he’s doing. Monitor his use. His value could significantly increase later this season.
13. Demario Douglas New England (-1)
New England obviously likes the rookie WR and are deploying him both in the passing game – three targets, one reception for 15 yards – and run game (one carry for five yards). He seems destined to have a small, defined role in Bill Belichick’s offense this season, limiting his fantasy upside.
14. Trey Palmer Tampa Bay (-2)
The good news? Palmer is definitely part of the Bucs’ offensive game plan. Bad news? It just isn’t much of a part to be played at this time. Palmer’s speed is legit and he figures to make a few big plays this year but when and where, that’ll be guess work.
15. Kayshon Boutte New England (-)
For the second time in three games, Boutte did not register a catch nor was he targeted. Considering how New England uses it’s WRs, it’s unlikely he’ll have much fantasy value this season.
Tight Ends
1. Sam LaPorta Detroit (+1)
LaPorta scored the first TD of his career in Detroit’s victory over Atlanta. SNS’#2 ranked TE for last April’s draft, LaPorta is too big for slot CBs and safeties and too quick and fast for LBs in coverage. Additionally, he’s a competent in-line blocker which increases his value to the team. LaPorta is a must add in all formats.
2. Dalton Kincaid Buffalo (-1)
Starting a rookie TE in fantasy football is always a risky proposition as week 3 was a rough one for Kincaid as he caught two passes (on two attempts) for three yards. Not good but better days lie ahead.
3. Luke Musgrave Green Bay (-)
Musgrave is a featured weapon in the new Green Bay offense led by Jordan Love. His use only looks to be increasing. If your TEs are underperforming, Musgrave is worth an addition to your team.
4. Luke Schoonmaker Dallas (+1)
Schoonmaker was only targeted once on Sunday. He has little fantasy value at this time. However, there will be additional opportunities for Schoonmaker in the future.
5. Will Mallory Indianapolis (-1)
Indianapolis’ TE depth is extremely deep and it isn’t surprising that Mallory went from two catches last week to zero targets this week. It’s unlikely that Mallory will be fantasy relevant anytime soon.
Rookie Rankings – September 26, 2023
Bijan Robinson RB Atlanta
Puka Nacua WR LA Rams
Tank Dell WR Houston
De’Von Achane RB Miami
Jordan Addison WR Minnesota
Jahmyr Gibbs RB Detroit
Sam LaPorta TE Detroit
Zay Flowers WR Baltimore
Dalton Kincaid TE Buffalo
Jayden Reed WR Green Bay
Josh Downs WR Indianapolis
CJ Stroud QB Houston
Luke Musgrave TE Green Bay
Marvin Mims WR Denver
Roschon Johnson RB Chicago
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