How are we feeling, fantasy football fanatics? Are you flying high in your league, or are you in full-on panic mode? Either way, let’s break down a few ways we can position ourselves for success this week and beyond!
BUY
Jordan Whittington, WR, Los Angeles Rams
With preseason darling Puka Nacua on the IR and Cooper Kupp in an ankle cast, opportunity has come knocking for all the lesser-appreciated Rams pass catchers. It’s easy to point at Demarcus Robinson and say he is now the go-to guy for Matthew Stafford. Let your leaguemates play checkers while you play chess. Whittington showed his dynamic abilities in the slot at the University of Texas. Can you guess where the former Longhorn will line up on Sunday afternoon in the absence of Kupp? He’s 12% rostered in Sleeper and 5% rostered in Yahoo. It’s likely that you won’t have to pay anything for a receiver that is lining up to have a more than serviceable run over the next few weeks in PPR leagues. The biggest knock on Whittington has always been availability. However, if he’s healthy, the man that Sean McVay said before the season started will “be a factor” will get that opportunity sooner than expected. Buy now to reap the rewards this week and later in the season.
SELL
J.K. Dobbins, RB, Los Angeles Chargers
Yes, I’m telling you to sell the guy leading the league in rushing yards after two weeks. His stock will never be higher than it is now, and it’s not a matter of if the dreaded injury bug will bite Dobbins but when. His extensive injury history follows him all the way back to high school, and he’s played a total of 24 games in his first four NFL seasons. You can fortify a position on your roster and probably get some depth for your team, as well, if you trade Dobbins now. Don’t get stuck with Dobbins on your IR when you’re trying to make your run at the fantasy football playoffs later this season. Trade him, and don’t look back.
HOLD
Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins
Another football season, another concussion for Tua Tagovailoa. It’s obviously not the best-case scenario for anyone in Miami from a real-life or fantasy football perspective, but all hope is not lost for Waddle. Elite talent finds a way to rise to the top, and Waddle is surrounded by other players like Tyreek Hill and De’Von Achane, who demand the attention of opposing defenses. Is it ideal to have Skylar Thompson throwing passes in this offense? No. But it’s not like the starters are unfamiliar with the signal caller. While Tua was working through contract negotiations during the off-season and camp, Thompson got reps with the starters, and Waddle has consistently been one of his most outspoken supporters. Thompson has started a playoff game, as well, so it’s not like he hasn’t been under the bright lights. Don’t jump ship on Waddle or any of the Dolphins offensive weapons just yet.