Welcome into the inaugural edition of the DFS NFL Game by Game Breakdown! We have our first big slate of football for 2018 so let’s get to it!
I can practically smell the pigskin and her the hot routes being called out as we are counting down to the first time we can play DFS NFL! For those of you who might be unfamiliar with my article for MLB, the goal of this piece is to go game by game and breakdown who the best plays are based on advanced metrics and stats that you need to know. It’s not going to be exactly the same during the preseason as it’s much more difficult to predict playing time, but you’ll see the gist of what we’re trying to do. This will be here every week once the season gets rolling and we’ll try to hit some of the bigger slates during the preseason.
Since playing time is volatile, I will be very upfront that I don’t have any inside information or some type of edge. The goals for the preseason are to highlight names that should have opportunity and have been popping up at camp. In addition, I’ll be listing off some beat reporters for each team. These gentlemen and ladies that are close to the team can be an invaluable resource on Twitter. Just remember, it’s not their job to dispense fantasy info. Be respectful if you ask questions. The other major rule especially during the first couple weeks of the preseason is DO NOT play the stars. These guys won’t play more than a drive, if at all. Let’s dive on in!
DFS NFL – Cleveland Browns at New York Giants
Cleveland Browns Beat Reporters – Mary Kay Cabot, Daryl Ruiter
Players in italics are either the named or assumed starters and shouldn’t be played
Quaterbacks – Baker Mayfield, Drew Stanton – Tyrod Taylor
Odds are if you’re reading this article you already know what the main attraction here is and that’s the number one overall pick, Mayfield. According to Mr. Ruiter, he’s going to see the field for a decent amount of time on Thursday.
It says in the article that Mayfield might get up to a half of football, which is pretty darn appealing. On FanDuel, every player is the same price so we’re not worried about salary. We’re trying to put together who is going to be playing the most amount of time and attempt to correlate it with other members of the team. The Browns also have Stanton, Joel Stave and someone named Brogan Roback who I’m not convinced is a real person. It seems clear that Mayfield would be the only attractive option here. He has drawn pretty solid reviews throughout the early part of camp.
Running Backs – Nick Chubb, Matthew Dayes, Dontrell Hillard – Carlos Hyde, Duke Johnson
I would assume Chubb isn’t going to get more than a series or two so unless something changes, it would make sense for Dayes and Hilliard to get the bulk of the work. Dayes touched the ball nine times from the line of scrimmage last year but didn’t do much. He also returned kicks, with two 40+ yarders under hit belt. Hilliard is an undrafted rookie who will be fighting for his career in the NFL. He’s out of Tulane but wouldn’t appear to be anything special.
Wide Receivers – Rashard Higgins, Jeff Janis, Damion Ratley, Da’Mari Scott – Jarvis Landry
It’s a bummer Antonio Callaway was pulled over with marijuana in his car because the rookie has the ability on the field to be electric. With he and Josh Gordon not being around the team currently, Landry will probably see a play or two and be down very early. The Twitter hero Jeff Janis might get some run but I think Higgins might be the best play here. If Cleveland is smart, they won’t throw Mayfield out there with receivers who won’t make the team. He saw some experience last year and caught 27 passes for over 300 yards. Ratley and Scott are late round pick and undrafted, so the Browns will likely give them some time towards the end of the game. The Higgins to Mayfield connection could be one route to take.
Tight End – Darren Fells, Seth Devalve(maybe, he’s been injured) – David Njoku
If you wanted to play Fells and hope for a touchdown, that’s fine but I’m hoping there’s someone later that we like more.
D/ST – The Browns finished mid-pack in yards allowed but 31st in points allowed. No thanks.
New York Giants Beat Reporters – Paul Schwartz, Jordan Raanan
Quarterback – Davis Webb, Kyle Lauletta, Alex Tanney – Eli Manning
New head coach Pat Shurmur is already really good at the coach-speak aspect of the game, giving away virtually no hints at who’s going to play and how much in this game. They are installing a new offense so maybe the starters play a series, but it’s definitely not a smart bet. Seeing as how Manning struggled through last year(not all his fault), they will probably want to see what they have in Webb. Lauletta is having a typical rookie camp with some ups and downs so maybe Webb sees about a half of football? He would appear to be in line for the most time in this game.
Running Back – Wayne Gallman, Robert Martin, Jalen Smith, Shane Smith – Saquon Barkley, Jonathan Stewart
Stewart is an old man so shouldn’t see much action and as excited as everyone is about Barkley, they’re not giving him more than a couple carries. He can take any touch to the house but still isn’t worth the risk. Gallman is about the only name folks will recognize but with this amount of backs available, we could really be looking at a mish-mash of playing time. It’s not the most attractive spot an I’ll probably try and look elsewhere before playing any of the Giants backs.
Wide Receivers – Cody Latimer, Hunter Sharp – Odell Beckham, Sterling Shepard
Beckham had previously tweeted “No Preseason” so even if he gets a snap or two, it’s not going to be a lot. We’re in the same boat as the running backs as there are too many bodies to make heads or tail. After Latimer and Sharp, the Giants website has eight other receivers listed on the depth chart. Seems like a monster dice roll.
Tight End – Rhett Ellison, Jerell Adams – Even Engram
You could throw a dart at one of these guys and hope they find the end zone, but there are going to be some better options in other games.
D/ST – They may not be the worst option. There is some talent through the defense even though they didn’t play well last year. Mayfield will be seeing his first NFL action and maybe they can force a turnover or two.
DFS NFL – Panthers at Bills
Carolina Panthers Beat Writers – Jourdan Rodriguez, Joe Person
Quarterback – Garrett Gilbert, Taylor Heinicke, Kyle Allen – Cam Newton
It’s hard to find anyone that I would want to play out of that group. Gilbert will see sometime with the first team, according to head coach Ron Rivera. Their offensive line is beat up which could be an issue for an inexperienced quarterback. There’s not telling who gets what playing time and I honestly couldn’t tell you these three were on an NFL roster before I looked it up.
Running Back – Cameron Artis-Payne, Kenjon Barner, Elijah Hood – Christian McCaffrey, C.J. Anderson
Artis-Payne might get the most time from the bunch but that’s far from a sure thing. Barner has the speed to take any touch to the house but it’s not known exactly how the Panthers will utilize him. Hood has yet to log an NFL carry and is a total unknown.
Wide Receivers – D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel, Damiere Byrd, Jarius Wright – Torrey Smith, Devin Funchess
I’m hoping we get some idea of how much Moore is going to play because I can’t wait to see this kid in action. He was my favorite receiver in this year’s draft class and he’s got some serious playmaking ability. The rest of the crew maybe has some GPP appeal because they can burn as a group. Good luck on figuring out who would see the targets and there’s about four other receivers not listed here so don’t go crazy.
Tight End – Chris Manhertz, Ian Thomas – Greg Olsen
Manhertz has the “former college basketball player” narrative working for him, along with it being his third year to keep in mind for a later date. He’s also injured and isn’t expected to play. For tomorrow, Thomas is a rookie that has a 91st percentile SPARQ score, so the athletic profile is certainly there. You have to play a tight end and Thomas is definitely in the mix.
D/ST – Given the complete dearth of talent on paper for Buffalo, I would suspect they are a popular option. I can’t really argue that either. The quarterback trio that the Bills will put out could turn the ball over multiple times.
Buffalo Bills Beat Reporters – Joe Buscaglia, Mike Rodak
Quarterbacks – A.J. McCarron, Nate Peterman, Josh Allen
Nobody is really listed as the starter here because this competition is legitimately wide open. McCarron has been first in the pecking order in camp, followed by Peterman and Allen. Even if we think McCarron might play more than a typical starter, I’m not going there or any other quarterback from Buffalo.
Running Backs – Travaris Cadet, Marcus Murphy, Taiwan Jones – LeSean McCoy, Chris Ivory
The Bills offensive line has been ravaged by trades and retirements from what they looked like last year so this spot is a total fade for me. Cadet has always been just a receiving back, Jones is a 30 year old journeyman and Murphy has seven carries over a three year career.
Wide Receivers – Rod Streater, Jeremy Kerley, Malachi Dupree – Kelvin Benjamin, Andre Holmes
Geez, this group looks really bad. Dupree was drafted by the Packers last year and never saw the field. There’s a total of nine receivers after the two starters, not including Zay Jones and Corey Coleman. There’s just no reason to go there.
Tight End – Nick O’Leary, Logan Thomas – Charles Clay
There’s three other tight ends listed behind O’Leary and Thomas. If we get an idea of the playing time, you can maybe make an argument for one of them in PPR. These quarterbacks might need a security blanket more often than not.
D/ST – This game could be a very ugly one and the Bills defense could help keep the game low-scoring. The quarterback play just would appear to be dreadful and that’s going to lead to some turnovers.
DFS NFL – Bears at Bengals
Chicago Bears Beat Reporters – Dan Wiederer, Brad Biggs
Quarterbacks – Chase Daniel, Tyler Bray – Mitch Trubisky
Finally, we have a team that actually has some stats. Bray is for sure the man you want out of this group and is up there with Mayfield as one of the best potential options. He threw the ball 34 times in the Hall of Fame game and some of that was the Bears were trailing, but you take that level of opportunity every time.
Running Backs – Benny Cunningham, Ryan Nall, Taquan Mizzell – Jordan Howard , Tarik Cohen
Nall is likeliest the most interesting from this bunch. Cunningham is the definition if just a guy and won’t get many reps given his veteran status. Cohen and Howard are too big a piece of the offense to risk and Nall saw seven carries and a reception inn the Hall of Fame Game.
Wide Receivers – Anthony Miller, Kevin White, Josh Bellamy, Javon Wims – Allen Robinson, Taylor Gabriel
I’ll have Javon Wims in just about any lineup I play today. He caught seven passes and had a target share of over 20 percent last game. Robinson and Gabriel probably won’t even play at all. I’m hoping that Miller plays a bit, but he’s been drawing such rave reviews at camp I don’t think it’ll be enough to play him. I just want to see him get on the field.
Tight Ends – Dion Sims, Adam Shaheen – Trey Burton
Shaheen is too big of a part of the offense to throw out there for too long. He’s going to be a handful in the red-zone, especially with the other weapons the offense has. Sims is a veteran so the playing time is likely split between three other players, none of which are worth it.
D/ST – This group did just fine against the Ravens so I wouldn’t talk you out of them.
Cincinnati Bengals Beat Reporters – Paul Dehner Jr., Jay Morrison
Quarterbacks – Matt Barkley, Logan Woodside, Jeff Driskel – Andy Dalton
Hey guys, Matt Barkley is still in the league! I definitely wouldn’t have know that otherwise. Woodside is a rookie so he will likely get the back end of the game. There’s probably better quarterbacks to bet on, but I will say I have some interest in a couple wide receivers in tournaments. You can think about pairing a quarterback with one of them as a high upside play.
Running Backs – Mark Whalton, Ray Lawry, Tra Carson – Joe Mixon, Giovani Bernard
Don’t fall for the Whalton trap. He’s had some buzz since draft day among some circles but the Bengals have too many backs to get a piece of the pie to try and play him. There’s talent there and maybe he has a good game but he could also see five or six touches and that be it.
Wide Receivers – A whole bunch – A.J. Green, Tyler Boyd, John Ross
There are 12 receivers total on the depth chart for the Bengals which makes it virtually impossible to figure out who’s going to play. Ross had about the worst rookie season possible but has been raising some eyebrows at camp. I’m hoping he gets some extra time since he had such a rough time last year and he’s got a chance to catch a long touchdown.
Tight Ends – C.J. Uzomah, Moritz Böhringer – Tyler Eifert, Tyler Kroft
I will politely say no thank you to these tight ends because there’s also two more behind them.
D/ST – The Chicago offense isn’t exactly what you would call deep, but I would still lean towards Buffalo or Carolina.
DFS NFL – Steelers at Eagles
Pittsburgh Steelers Beat Reporters – Chris Adamski, Steelers Depot
Quarterbacks – Landry Jones, Joshua Dobbs, Mason Rudolph – Ben Roethlisberger
Big Ben won’t play a snap and the smart money is for Jones to be out early. Dobbs and Rudolph both carry some intrigue but I might side with Rudolph here. From Ed Bouchette at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Coach Mike Tomlin has had some pretty high praise for the rookie to go along with some normal critiques for rookies. They spent a relatively high pick on Rudolph and will want to see him in action.
Running Backs – James Connor, Jaylen Samuels, Fitzgerald Touissant – Le’Veon Bell
It would be nice to get some type of idea of the playing time here because there’s potential in Connor and Samuels. The best guess is Connor would be used sparingly since Bell isn’t at camp and won’t be at all. Toussaint would probably be the safest play with Samuels as the wild card big pay option.
Wide Receivers – Justin Hunter, Darrius Heyward-Bey, James Washington – Antonio Brown, Juju Smith-Schuster
The only one I want out of this group is Washington. He’s seemingly making a crazy good catch every day at camp and was a high draft pick. I would be very surprised if he and Rudolph don’t rekindle their Oklahoma State connection a few times here and Washington’s calling card is a deep ball threat. It would only take one play to make a big swing in the standings.
Tight End – Xavier Grimble, Bucky Hodges – Vance McDonald, Jesse James
Grimble would probably be the best bet here because Hodges just signed with the team. He may not know a lot of the playbook yet. There’s two other tight ends on the roster so you’re banking on a touchdown here.
D/ST – Not a chance. The first team unit was terrible after the Ryan Shazier injury and they’re running short on linebackers right now with camp injuries.
Philadelphia Eagles Beat Writers – Jeff McLane, Nick Fierro
Quarterbacks – Nate Sudfeld, Joe Callahan – Carson Wentz, Nick Foles
If I don’t play Mayfield, it’s going to be Sudfeld. With Wentz not being ready to play yet and the Eagles pretty obviously knowing what Foles can do, Sudfeld is going to get the bulk of the work. The Eagles offense was one of the best in the NFL and Sudfeld will have some good pieces to make some plays.
Running Backs – Wendell Smallwood, Donnel Pumphrey, Matt Jones, Josh Adams – Jay Ajayi, Darren Sproles, Corey Clement
The only two I might be interested in is Smallwood and maybe Jones. Smallwood is playing for his spot on the roster and Jones has shown a little flash when he was in Washington. The way Philly uses their backs during the regular season makes me tend to shy away from this spot.
Wide Receivers – Mack Hollins, Markus Wehaton, Bryce Treggs, Shelton Gibson – Alshon Jeffery, Nelson Agholor
It’s a Markus Wheaton revenge game! On a serious note, I really would only use Hollins or Treggs. They have the speed and downfield ability to break off a big play. Hollins would be my number one choice here because he might see a few snaps with the first team but should be a part of the second team for sure. In limited action, he average 14.6 yards a reception in 2017.
Tight End – Dallas Goedert, Richard Rodgers – Zach Ertz
Goedert is a fine GPP option because he’s a touchdown threat, even as a rookie. Ertz missed some time in camp with some type of injury and it seemed like Goedert was making a touchdown catch almost every day. Doug Pederson is one of the coaches you know can scheme open a tight end in the red zone.
D/ST – Philly has plenty of talent and some young quarterbacks to potentially feast on but they’re not my favorite.
DFS NFL – Saints at Jaguars
New Orleans Saints Beat Reporters – Mike Triplett, Josh Katzenstein
Quarterbacks – Tom Savage, Taysom Hill, J.T. Barrett – Drew Brees
I don’t think I’m degenerate enough to try my hand with one of these options since we know there are other options that should get more playing time. If Savage were to get about a half with the front end of the roster, that might change some things.
Running Backs – Jonathan Williams, Terrance West, Boston Scott – Mark Ingram, Alvin Kamara, Shane Vereen
Williams and West are very boring options even if they get some touches. If I’m swinging fro the fences, Boston Scott is my man. He’s drawn some comparisons to Darren Sproles in some circles and that’s high praise. Backs that are good at receiving the ball tend to do a pretty nice job in the Saints offense.
Wide Receivers – Tre’Quan Smith, Brandon Tate, Cameron Meredith, Tommy Lee Lewis – Michael Thomas, Ted Ginn
I don’t think Meredith will play that much, if at all but I wanted to mention him because you should draft him in your seasonal leagues. Smith is the man I want out of this group because he should see a lot of work. The receiving corps is banged up and some won’t play at all, so Smith is going to be a target hog relative to other receivers. Search him on Twitter to see him take a 70 yard screen all the way for a touchdown in practice recently.
Tight Ends – Ben Watson
Watson shouldn’t be played and there’s seven players listed behind him. That’s a hard pass.
D/ST – The Jags play to not turn the ball over, leaning on the running game and safe passes so I will not look towards the Saints. Keep them in mind for the season though.
Jacksonville Jaguars Beat Reporters – Mike Kaye, Michael DiRocco
Quarterbacks – Cody Kessler, Tanner Lee – Blake Bortles
Kessler probably gets a bit of a bad rap since he was in Cleveland and had every possible thing go wrong for him. I don’t think he’s the best play on the board but he’s a potentially low-owned guy.
Running Backs – Tim Cook, Brandon Wilds – Leonard Fournette, T.J. Yeldon, Corey Grant
The first three backs in this offense are firmly entrenched in their roles and what is expected of them. That means that Cook and Wilds are going to get the bulk of the work, which has my attention. Cook is a big boy, weighing in at 242 pounds and he could fill the Fournette role and be the hammer. Th Jags led the NFL in rushing yards per game last year so I think Cook might be a borderline lock for me. Wilds would seem to be less of a factor.
Wide Receivers – DJ Chark Jr, DeAndre Smelter, Jaydon Mickens – Donte Moncrief, Marquise Lee, Keelan Cole, Dede Westbrook
The receiver room for the Jags is going to be crowded all season long and I don’t think I’m taking any dart throws. If you forced me to take one, it would likely be Chark and hope he can break off a big play.
Tight Ends – Austin Seferian-Jenkins
There’s six players fighting for playing time. ASJ might be a very solid sleeper late in drafts or in bestball but not for this game.
D/ST – Jacksonville could be popular because of how they performed last year and they are a very deep unit but most teams play a little more vanilla. I’d pick on a less talented team than New Orleans.
DFS NFL – Buccaneers at Dolphins
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Beat Reporters – Greg Auman, Trevor Sikkema
Quarterbacks – Ryan Griffin, Austin Allen – Ryan Fitzpatrick, Jameis Winston
Tampa isn’t going to use Fitzpatrick for long since he has to start the first three games due to Winstons’s suspension. Griffin and Allen still offer very little and they aren’t on my radar.
Running Backs – Dare Ogunbowale – Peyton Barber, Ronald Jones, Charles Sims, Jacquizz Rodgers
So the big four players likely aren’t playing for long. Even though Jones is fighting for a starting role, he won’t win it in the first game of the preseason. The only other back on the team is injured so it would appear Ogunbowale is the only back that will be available for a large portion of the game. I don’t care how talented he is or isn’t, it’s hard to pass the opportunity.
Wide Receiver – Bobo Wilson, Adam Humphries and a bunch of players – Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, DeSean Jackson
If I thought Chris Godwin was going to get a decent amount of playing time, I might take a shot at him. He’s a breakout candidate but there’s also scuttlebutt he could be the number two option for the Bucs offense this year. I can’t imagine he gets a ton of time. There’s 12 receivers on the roster all told which is too many to have any confidence.
Tight End – Six players – O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate
You can’t even take a shot at Brate or Howard, hoping for a touchdown because both those players are very integral parts of the offense. Unlocking the code for six other players doesn’t seem worth it.
D/ST – The Bucs defense did add some players and the Dolphins offense is likely flawed at best. They’re not a terrible GPP option.
Miami Dolphins Beat Reporters – Adam Beasley, Hal Habib
Quarterbacks – David Fales, Brock Osweiler, Bryce Petty – Ryan Tannehill
I don’t think I could play Brock Lobster against a Division II defense and the other two options are certainly pretty underwhelming.
Running Backs – Senorise Perry, Kalen Ballage, Brandon Radcliffe – Frank Gore, Kenyan Drake
The headliner here might be Ballage, who is expected to play a role with the Dolphins all season. He would be on my radar but a sketchy option at best without knowing the playing time in advance. We’ve had better spots and there’s more to come.
Wide Receivers – Isaiah Ford, Jakeem Grant, Leonte Caroo, Rashawn Scott – Kenny Stills, DeVante Parker, Albert Wilson
I don’t trust any of the quarterbacks to make anything work, and Caroo and Grant would probably lead the way just from a GPP dart perspective.
Tight End – Gavin Escobar, Mike Gesicki – A.J. Derby, MarQueis Gray
I’d love to play Gesicki because he’s reportedly turned his camp around and has been making plays. If we learn that he’s playing with Osweiler, I might use him because the big quarterback has always favored the tight end.
D/ST – There’s not much here that leads me to use them.
DFS NFL – Redskins at Patriots
Washington Redskins Beat Writers – John Keim, Rich Tandler
Quarterbacks – Colt McCoy, Kevin Hogan – Alex Smith
I can’t believe McCoy is still kicking around on a roster but here we are. I don’t think he or Hogan would really be worth it but I guess McCoy would be fine if he’s getting a whole half.
Running Backs – Kapri Bibbs, Byron Marshall, Martez Carter – Derrius Guice, Rob Kelly, Samaje Perine
That makes it pretty easy to me in that you can take swipe at Bibbs or Marshall. I prefer other spots but trust the beat writer on this one.
Wide Receivers – Brian Quick, Maurice Harris, Trey Quinn – Jamison Crowder, Josh Doctson, Paul Richardson
Quinn has been making noise on and off through camp and Harris has flashed during portions as well. It doesn’t seem like the best setup for success with the quarterbacks and the gaggle of bodies looking for playing time.
Tight Ends – Jeremy Sprinkle, Matt Flanagan – Jordan Reed, Vernon Davis
I’ve honestly never heard of these two and there’s two more players behind them. They fall behind some of the other options we’ve hit on already.
D/ST – It’s not like they’re going to play against Tom Brady but the Washington defense still isn’t my favorite option.
New England Patriots Beat Reporters – Mike Reiss, Kevin Duffy
Quarterbacks – Brian Hoyer, Danny Etling – Tom Brady
The Patriots are likely going to get an early look at Etling to evaluate their seventh round pick. He’s going to play a ton by all indications because Hoyer won’t see a lot of action and it would be surprising if Brady play at all. Major opportunity beckons for the rookie in this game.
Running Backs – James Develin, Henry Poggi, Brandon Bolden– Rex Burkhead, Mike Gillislee, Jeremy Hill, James White
I’m not falling for the Belichick Roulette in the preseason.
Wide Receivers – Riley McCarron, Braxton Berrios, Devin Lucien – Chris Hogan, Eric Decker, Julian Edelman, Phillip Dorsett
Kenny Britt is currently injured and Cordarrelle Patterson‘s role is a little unsure right now. These three should see plenty of snaps but guessing the pecking order might be a little more of a challenge. McCarron has been getting talked about as the potential starter while Edelman is suspended so this is a big test for him. That would be my first choice.
Tight Ends – Jacob Hollister, Will Tye, Ryan Izzo – Rob Gronkowski, Dwayne Allen
There’s not as many bodies but this still isn’t my favorite spot to use.
D/ST – The Pats weren’t the best unit last year but Colt McCoy and Kevin Hogan aren’t the most frightening quarterback tandem on the board.
DFS NFL – Rams at Ravens
Los Angeles Rams Beat Reporters – Lindsey Thiry, Gary Klein
Quarterbacks – Sean Mannion, Brandon Allen, Luis Perez – Jared Goff
We’ve had better options in a few other games to this point.
Running Backs – Malcolm Brown, Justin Davis, John Kelly – Todd Gurley
Kelly was getting high praise in the joint practice with the Ravens so if you’re playing one, it might be him. Brown shouldn’t see a ton of work and Nick Holley is the only other back on the roster.
Wide Receivers – Pharaoh Cooper, Mike Thomas, Josh Reynolds – Brandin Cooks, Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods
I’m not advocating it but it wouldn’t surprise me if the Rams tried to hit a big play with Cooks on the first drive to welcome him into the fold. This receiving corps is crowded and not that attractive as things stand.
Tight End – Six players are on the roster
Better spots can be had elsewhere with that many players.
D/ST – I don’t have an issue with using the Rams defense. This will be the first time all the new players have taken the field together but the Ravens offense is trying to find itself as well.
Baltimore Ravens Beat Reporters – Jamison Hensley, Jeff Zrebiec
Quarterbacks – Robert Griffin III, Lamar Jackson – Joe Flacco
RG3 looked pretty good in his action but if Jackson is going to get another half of football, the upside is probably a little better. The rushing ability is just a cheat code and can make your night in just one 10 yard rushing touchdown.
Running Backs – Kenneth Dixon, Gus Edwards, Mark Thompson – Alex Collins, Buck Allen
Dixon was bange dup at practice again and may or may not be available. If we know he’s out, Edwards carried the ball 10 times during the Hall of Fame Game. He would be the best bet for volume.
Wide Receivers – Too Many Bodies – Michael Crabtree, John Brown, Willie Snead
No receiver caught more than two passes at the Hall of Fame Game so it would seem highly difficult to parse through that mess.
Tight End – Hayden Hurst
A lot of the Baltimore tight ends have been dealing with injuries and the Ravens picked Hurst before Jackson in the draft. They have big plans for him and Hurst might be the best option on the board for this slate.
D/ST – The Ravens have a stout defense and are a fine option.
DFS NFL – Titans at Packers
Tennessee Titans Beat Reporters – Jim Wyatt, Terry McCormick
Quarterbacks – Blaine Gabbert, Luke Falk – Marcus Mariota
If we know Gabbert might not get a lot of time before the games start, Falk would be an option just for opportunity alone. He’s a sixth round rookie from Washington State and would be a complete wild card.
Running Backs – Akrum Wadley, David Fluellen, Dayln Dawkins – Derrick Henry, Dion Lewis
There might be some opportunity here but I’m not sure it’s any better than some of the other spots we highlighted. There will still be a three headed monster and I’ll take my chances Tampa or Jacksonville.
Wide Receivers – Too Many Bodies – Taywan Taylor, Corey Davis, Rishard Matthews
There’s 12 receivers all told, even though three are off the radar immediately. Still, nine receivers is too many. I will say last year’s preseason darling, Tajae Sharpe is still on the team. Other players are still more attractive on paper.
Tight Ends – Jonnu Smith, a gaggle of bodies – Delanie Walker
I really want to play Jonnu Smith because he’s a good athlete and would have a good chance at production if he’s on the field. I just don’t know for sure that he’ll get the playing time I’d be comfortable with over a guy like Hurst in Baltimore.
D/ST – I play no defenses against Green Bay, even in the preseason.
Green Bay Packers Beat Reporters – Ryan Wood, Rob Demovsky
Quarterbacks – Brett Hundley, DeShone Kizer, Tim Boyle – Aaron Rodgers
Hundley is listed first behind Rodgers but one would think the Packers saw quite enough of him in game action last year. There’s a reason why they traded for Kizer, who brings some rushing ability and is interesting.
Running Backs – Joel Bouagnon, Akeem Judd – Ty Montgomery, Jamaal Williams
We have another major chance at some volume here with Bouagnon, who is one of the only healthy backs on the roster that will see preseason action. Judd recently signed with the team and may not be up to speed enough to get on the field a whole lot.
Wide Receivers – Geronimo Allison, J’Mon Moore, Jake Kumerow, DeAngelo Yancey – Davante Adams, Randall Cobb
The Packers need someone to step up for the third receiver role and it’s anyone’s game at the moment. They’ve all kind of received some good buzz and some negative buzz, so they’re all volatile options. Kumerow got a high compliment from Rodgers recently, which is huge from a quarterback of that stature.
Tight Ends – Six bodies – Jimmy Graham
This is an easy pass with six players battling after Graham for the backup tight end role.
D/ST – I don’t see an issue with it, especially if the rookie Falk will see most of the reps.
DFS NFL – Texans at Chiefs
Houston Texans Beat Reporters – John McClain, Aaron Wilson
Quarterbacks – Brandon Weeden, Joe Webb III, Stephen Morris – Deshaun Watson
A lot of eyes will be on this game because of Watson and the other quarterback but they’re not the most playable options.
Running Backs – Alfred Blue, Tyler Ervin, Terry Swanson – Lamar Miller, D’Onta Foreman
There’s three other backs not even listed here so I can’t see any reason need to venture into this muck.
Wide Receivers – Bruce Ellington, Sammie Coates, Braxton Miller, – DeAndre Hopkins, Will Fuller
I was excited to see Keke Coutee on the field but that’s not going to happen in this game.
Ellington has flashed talent when he’s been healthy and Miller has to be fighting for his job with Coutee, so he needs to have a good showing. If you wanted to be bold, Fuller has every chance to break a long touchdown at virtually no ownership.
Tight Ends – Seven Bodies on the roster
Another easy pass compared to other spots.
D/ST – I probably wouldn’t because there is a little downside.
Kansas City Chiefs Beat Reporters – BJ Kissel, Terez Paylor
Quarterbacks – Chad Henne, Matt McGloin, Chase Litton – Patrick Mahomes
Everyone is going to be excited to see Mahomes and I think we might hit a point in the preseason when he’s worth playing. The Chiefs need to get him ready for his first season as a starter. It’s just not going to be this game.
Running Backs – Spencer Ware, Darrel Williams, Kerwynn Williams – Kareem Hunt, Charcandrick West, Damien Williams
Darrel Williams is the only player with no NFL experience and I don’t know who will actually be in the rotation here. Ware might not see any time after last preseason’s injury. Everyone else is a veteran so this is a little tough to figure out.
Wide Receivers – Chris Conley, Jehu Chesson, De’Anthony Thomas – Sammy Watkins, Tyreek Hill
There is nothing to write home about with this group and I won’t be playing any of them. Even though it is tempting to play Watkins or Hill and hope for a bomb, we don’t know who Mahomes is going to favor.
Tight Ends – Blake Mack, Jace Amaro, Tim Wright – Travis Kelce
Jace Amaro was a player that the Jets got excited for once upon a time but. he’s not the best idea with this slate. It’s hard to walk away from Hurst or Anderson and their potential volume.
D/ST – I’m not the biggest fan of the Chiefs defense when the starters are on the field.
DFS NFL – Cowboys at 49ers
Dallas Cowboys Beat Reporters – Clarence Hill Jr., Todd Archer
Quarterbacks – Cooper Rush, Mike White, Dalton Sturm – Dak Prescott
Rush should be the main attraction during the game and Twitter is littered with videos of him making good passes at camp. If he gets a half to himself, it’s not the worst play ever. He seems unafraid to take some shots, though it’s fair to point out games are a different animal.
Running Backs – Bo Scarbrough, Rod Smith – Tavon Austin, Ezekiel Elliott
Scarbrough is an interesting rookie out of Alabama but won’t play behind the real offensive line. Smith is the better all around back and would be a fine play if we knew how much work he’d get. There’s five other backs that he has to fight with.
Wide Receivers – Terrance Williams, Cole Beasley, Michael Gallup, Allen Hurns
I wouldn’t play any of those four unless we get word that Gallup is going to see a lot of time. There’s too many other receivers to try and pick one out of the bunch. I’d love to see Gallup get some serious run as he’s been getting positive words from camp.
Tight Ends – Blake Jarwin, Rico Gathers, Geoff Swaim
The retirement of Jason Witten has left this spot wide open so we don’t know who the starter is or who has the leg up. I’d give a slight lean towards Jarwin, though it’s a total guess.
D/ST – I don’t really have any interest in this unit.
San Francisco 49ers Beat Reporters – Eric Branch, Cam Inman
Quarterbacks – C.J. Beathard, Nick Mullens, Jack Heneghan – Jimmy Garoppolo
Bethard got some playing time last year and was pretty clearly in over his head so I’m not too interested in him. The other two are unknowns and I’ll pass on that as well.
Running Backs – Joe Williams, Jeremy McNichols, Raheem Mostert – Jerick McKinnon, Matt Breida
Williams was all the rage last year before he missed the entire season with an injury. McNichols was drafted by the Bucs last year but washed out fairly quick. I’d think about Williams in tournaments but he’s far from a safe play.
Wide Receivers – Aldrick Robinson, Dante Pettis, a bunch of others – Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin, Trent Taylor
Robinson has been a preseason darling in years past but the man everyone is talking about is Pettis. He might get some run in the first half and if he does, his speed makes him well worth a tournament shot. He’s really been showing out at camp lately.
Tight Ends – Cole Hikutini, Ross Dwelley, Wes Saxton – George Kittle, Garrett Celek
This would appear to be just a mixed bag at best and I’m not going to use any of them.
D/ST – The unit could be improved and they might not be the worst option given the lack of depth that Dallas has.
DFS NFL – Colts at Seahawks
Indianapolis Colts Beat Reporters – Mike Chappell, Stephen Holder
Quarterbacks – Jacoby Brissett, Phillip Walker, Brad Kaaya – Andrew Luck
Luck is going to play a quarter and I couldn’t be more excited to see him back on the field after missing all of last season. At the same time, don’t fall for the trap and play him. The other three won’t get as much time with Luck getting his so this isn’t a spot to use.
Running Backs – Jordan Wilkins, Nyheim Hines, Christine Michael – Marlon Mack
The truth here is the Colts don’t know how this backfield will shake out. Wilkins would likely get the majority of carries since he’s fighting for the two down runner role in the offense, but that’s not much to hang your hat on.
Wide Receivers – Ryan Grant, Deon Cain, Chester Rogers – T.Y. Hilton
The Colts need to figure out who will seize the number two gig behind Hilton and Cain has been the talk of camp thus far. If there’s anyone to try and catch lightning in a bottle, it’s him. Grant is listed as the starter opposite Hilton but I wouldn’t read a ton into that.
Tight Ends – Erik Swoope, Ross Travis – Jack Doyle, Eric Ebron
I’m interested to see if Doyle or Ebron gets favored by Luck but it’s not something I’d gamble on today. There were folks making noise for Swoope at some point in 2016 and he did average over 16 yards a reception.
D/ST – Not a chance with this unit. The first team isn’t that good.
Seattle Seahawks Beat Reporters – Gregg Bell, Bob Condotta
Quarterbacks – Austin Davis, Alex McCough – Russell Wilson
I’m going to take a hard pass on this part of the game. Seattle has some definite flaws on this offense when the crew is all on the field.
Running Backs – Mike Davis, J.D. McKissic, C.J. Prosise – Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny
The Seattle offensive line is pretty rough but maybe Mike Davis can get something going since it’s the preseason. Prosise has the most amount of talent but he’s never been able to stay healthy enough to show it. McKissic made a couple plays last year but I’m not all that interested in anyone.
Wide Receivers – 13 Bodies – Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett
There is nobody worth playing here whatsoever with that many mouths to feed.
Tight Ends – Nick Vannett – Ed Dickson
There’s a ton of tight ends as well and I’m going to pass on that end of the game as well.
D/ST – The defense isn’t what it once was for the starters, let alone anything else.
DFS NFL Sample Lineup
QB – Baker Mayfield
RB – Tim Cook, Dane Ogunbowale
WR – James Washington, Riley McCarron, Tre’Quan Smith
TE – Hayden Hurst
Flex – Joel Bouagnon
D/ST – Carolina Panthers
As always, may fortune be on your side and make sure to follow me on Twitter @bucn4life as for the latest MLB and DFS NFL info. If there’s a late scratch and/or lineup cards aren’t put in for the late games, this article will always be updated on Twitter ASAP.