FanDuel NFL 2021: Best lineup for Week 1

Flex position: Damien Harris $5,900

So, there is a running back available that some say could lead the league in rushing and he’s here for less than $6,000 in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins? Damien Harris feels like an obvious choice in this week’s lineups. The Patriots traded away Sony Michel to take away some of the logjam at the running back position. They still have James White and Rhamondre Stevenson, but they feel like clear role players at this point.

Harris is looking to make a statement for the Pats. With Mac Jones making his first career start, Josh McDaniels will likely play it safe and try to win with the running game. Harris could become a star by the end of Week 1, and he might be someone who can win you your matchup.

Tight End: Jonnu Smith $4,900

Tight end is setting itself up for pure value plays. Two Patriots on the same team? It can absolutely work. The Pats spent huge on two tight ends in Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry. Henry has been dealing with injuries all offseason, so Smith feels like the main guy this week at least. The Patriots have kept it close to the vest how they will use their tight ends.

One thing that is clear is the Patriots spent a ton on the passing game, so they plan on using it at least in winning situations. Smith comes in at under $5,000, which is insane value. He is very much a touchdown threat when the Patriots come in close, and Jones is looking for pass catchers who he can trust. When in doubt, the Pats offense focuses on the tight end.

Other options: T.J. Hockenson $5,700, Noah Fant $5,400

Defense: Carolina Panthers $4,600

Don’t overthink it. The Carolina Panthers may not have the best defense in the league, but they are facing Zach Wilson and the New York Jets. Wilson struggled at times during training camp, and the Jets offensive coordinator is in his first season in charge. This feels like it’s going to be a game full of mistakes.

Also, the Panthers are looking to make Sam Darnold’s former team look like fools for giving up on him. The Panthers are one of the best plays of the weekend. They have every motivation to dominate this matchup and make everyone think they are a team to watch this season. It might be fool’s gold, but that gold is worth it when it comes to your daily fantasy lineup.