10 D/ST sleepers to target for fantasy football in Week 1

8. Minnesota Vikings

As a direct reaction to last year’s abysmal showing, the Vikings efforted to fortify their defense this offseason. The returns to health of Danielle Hunter and Eric Kendricks, along with the welcoming of defensive tackle Michael Pierce after he opted out last season, brings the distinct possibility things will be a lot better this year.

In Week 1 Minnesota will get the Cincinnati Bengals. Quarterback Joe Burrow is coming off a major knee injury, with early struggles in camp and a little bit of preseason playing time. There will naturally be some rust to shake off still, behind an offensive line than can only be better–but how much better is it?

It feels like the Vikings are as likely to hold the Bengals to 10 points on Sunday as they are to allow 30. But there is serious upside for a bunch of sacks, a low point total and a couple takeaways–the name of the defensive game in fantasy football.

7. Green Bay Packers

The Packers will probably be an up-and-down fantasy defense again this year. Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints brings a wide range of possible outcomes, but Jameis Winston starting under center for New Orleans adds intrigue to the positive end for the Green Bay defense.

Winston’s turnover tendencies don’t need to be completely rehashed here (see 2019’s 30 touchdown-30 INT season for the Buccaneers). The Saints will also be without Michael Thomas, leaving an unproven group of wide receivers in his stead.

If the Packers’ offense can force the Saints into a pass-heavy game script, probably against their will, the chances Winston will provide interception opportunities in bunches become far better. Even with the prospect they’ll allow a lot of points, Green Bay is an interesting D/ST option for Week 1.