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Eric Karabell
The NFL season unfolds like a gripping narrative, filled with unexpected twists and turns, compelling fantasy football enthusiasts to sift through each week’s developments. Let’s dive into some pivotal predictions for your fantasy lineup!
NOTE: All fantasy point references here are based on PPR scoring formats unless otherwise specified.
Major news is shaking up the NFL world as the New York Giants opt to promote rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart to the starting position, relegating veteran Russell Wilson to the sidelines. This pivotal decision carries significant implications for fantasy football players. Many may hesitate to trust Dart, but the second-year wide receiver Malik Nabers could benefit from enhanced downfield targets.
Surprisingly, Giants RB Cam Skattebo Could Top Rookie Fantasy Scoring
Although Dart garners most of the attention, Skattebo may have an even greater impact for fantasy leagues. The dynamics differ for running backs, especially with key players like Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons and Josh Jacobs from the Green Bay Packers missing games due to bye weeks. Fantasy managers are in desperate need of reliable replacements, and Skattebo is poised for action.
This week, Skattebo should be actively utilized in lineups. Whether or not you trust New York’s offensive line or playcalling, Skattebo, selected in the fourth round from Arizona State, has shown he can be a dynamic runner. Expect at least 60 rushing yards weekly along with several receptions; he caught six of eight targets in Week 3. If Dart targets him, he could emerge as a strong RB1 option.
Skattebo wasted no time in outshining last year’s starter, Tyrone Tracy Jr. (shoulder), who is sidelined for several weeks. While Tracy averaged 3.1 yards per carry this season, Skattebo has posted an impressive 4.4 yards. Former backup Devin Singletary remains competent but fails to stand out. Skattebo’s relentless style makes him an RB2 option and potentially even more as the season progresses.
Here are other noteworthy RB insights:
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Why can Skattebo excel behind a struggling offensive line, yet Las Vegas Raiders rookie Ashton Jeanty struggles? Jeanty is expected to improve, but it remains baffling that he has only three receiving yards from six targets. I’d prioritize Skattebo over Jeanty, and possibly give them both a shot.
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For Baltimore Ravens RB Derrick Henry, starting the season with three fumbles has been concerning. Despite a strong performance against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1, defensive pressures have limited his output lately. Many are hesitant due to his age, but I predict he’ll regain confidence and rush for over 100 yards against the Chiefs this week.
Interestingly, while Baker Mayfield has only averaged 205 passing yards per game this season (down from 265 last year), the absence of WR Mike Evans (hamstring) may impact his performance against the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles. However, despite being under pressure, Mayfield has proven himself against Philly, racking up significant yardage and touchdowns in past matchups.
Other QB insights worth noting:
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Minnesota Vikings backup Carson Wentz set a dubious record by starting for his sixth NFL franchise. Yet his experience may guide the “defense-first, run-heavy” Vikings effectively. While rookie J.J. McCarthy has struggled, Wentz could hold onto the starting position until further notice.
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It’s unlikely the Jacksonville Jaguars will bench Trevor Lawrence soon. Yet, his performance is alarming, with low completion rates and inaccurate deep throws, leading many to ponder if an undisclosed injury is affecting him.
Don’t be surprised if … TE Tucker Kraft Becomes the Top Receiver for the Packers
As the Packers gear up for Week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys, Kraft is on track to lead the team in receptions, yardage, and touchdowns. Having previously led the team in TD receptions last season, and displayed impressive skills even while nursing a knee injury last week, Kraft is increasingly becoming a reliable target for QB Jordan Love.
While Kraft’s potential rise as QB Love’s favorite target might suggest a lapse in the wider receiver corps—a result of heavy investments in recent drafts—he has consistently shown his prowess after the catch, earning a significant target share. Notably, his emergence raises questions about the overall effectiveness of Packers’ wideouts this season.
Former Packer Davante Adams, a future Hall of Famer, was the last player to clear 900 receiving yards in a season back in 2021, and given Love’s current struggling form, it seems unlikely that any Packer will hit that mark this year. With minimal deep connections and lacking in volume passing due to coaching philosophy, Kraft stands out as a secure TE1 moving forward.
Additional WR/TE insights:
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New Orleans Saints WR Chris Olave is on pace for over 100 receptions despite low yardage, which speaks volumes about his role with emerging QB Spencer Rattler. If he avoids injuries, he may end up as a WR1.
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In San Francisco, Ricky Pearsall is breaking out as he crosses the 100-yard mark consistently. With more robust QB play, he looks to be a strong WR2 candidate moving forward.
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With Dak Prescott sidelined for a while, TE Jake Ferguson may see enhanced opportunities, potentially leading to high target shares that could translate into substantial fantasy value this season.