​

​Week 3 of the 2018 NFL season is upon us, and fantasy is getting interesting. LeVeon Bell is still holding out, and Joe Mixon is injured. As the year picks up, it's time to set yourself up not only for success in week 3 but also down the line.  Who am I thinking about this week?  Here are some thoughts.  Good luck, and happy-streaming!--Mike B.
 
Blake Bortles, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars. I believe in Bortles more than you do, and he's a better fantasy quarterback than real quarterback.  That being said, he could put together a nice game for the Jaguars against Tennessee after knocking off the Patriots.
 
Derek Carr, QB, Oakland Raiders.  Carr is a talented quarterback with a rough start to the season.  He's due to right the ship soon, and this could be the week.  If you're in need of a streaming option, he's a possibility.
 
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  This guy is having a brilliant start to the season, and ride that wave while he's still hot and Winston is still out of the game.  He's worth rostering in all leagues and starting in many.  Against a Steelers team with many issues in the locker room he could have a really nice week.
 
Mitchell Trubisky, QB, Chicago Bears.  Want to throw a complete dart this week?  Give Trubisky a chance against the Cardinals. Arizona is a team in turmoil, and this could be a nice week for Trubisky to have a breakout game. He's worth a flier.
 
LeVeon Bell, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers. Bell should be owned in all formats, but someone might have been frustrated enough to cut him, or to move him cheaply. Go get him now and hold onto him for the playoff push.  He'll be playing from week 11 onward at the very least. Let him take up one of your bench spots until then!
 
Giovanni Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals.  With Joe Mixon out with injury,  Bernard is the next guy up in the Bengals offense. Also take a long, hard look at Mark Walton if you want a flier in a deep league.
 
Matt Breida, RB, San Francisco 49ers. Breida is one of the leading running backs in the NFL right now, and should be owned in your league.  If you're dealing with injury or need a flex play, go get Breida.
 
Theo Riddick, RB, Detroit Lions.  The Lions need to perform on offense somehow, and Riddick is a key cog in this offensive unit.  He's way move valuable in PPR leagues than in standard ones but he's well-worth a long, hard look.
 
Geronimo Allison, WR, Green Bay Packers. I've liked Allison since his performance in the Senior Bowl.  Now he's looking like a legitimate NFL receiver.  Well worth rostering at this point in the season.
 
John Brown, WR, Baltimore Ravens.  Brown has had a slow-ish start to the season but this kid is extremely talented.  If you need depth at the position, give him a long, hard look.
 
Antonio Callaway, WR, Cleveland Browns. With Josh Gordon gone in Cleveland, someone has to take over his role in the passing game. Could Callaway be that guy?  It's worth keeping him on your roster until we find out!
 
Keelan Cole, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars.  Cole has the upside to have a huge season in Jacksonville.  Get him on your roster now, while you still can.
 
Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  The Buccaneers offense is hot, and Godwin is talented.  He should have a spot on your roster moving forward.
 
DJ Moore, WR, Carolina Panthers.  Moore is due for a breakout game sooner or later.  He might be the best receiver in this draft class and he's finding his footing in the NFL. I think he's worth a roster spot and might even be worth a gamble this week against the Bengals, one of the better defenses in the NFL.
 
Will Dissly, TE, Seattle Seahawks.  Dissly has put together a phenomenal start to the 2018 season.  While he may not continue to produce top tier numbers throughout the season, he's currently one of the top performers in fantasy.  If you're desperate, start him.
 
Austin Hooper, TE, Atlanta Falcons.  I believe in Austin Hooper, and he's due for a big game for the Falcons.  This is a gut feeling type of call, but he's worth a look if you're week at the position.
 
Ben Watson, TE,  New Orleans Saints. Watson is 37 years old but he's having a  pretty nice start to the year.  If you need a flier at the position, give Watson a look.
 
Cleveland Browns D/ST. The Browns have one of the best young defenses in the NFL, and against a rookie quarterback, this unit is going to feast on Thursday night.  If possible, get them into your lineup.
 
New England Patriots D/ST. Nobody uses information better than Bill Belichick, and after working with Matt Patricia as an assistant, he should be able to put together a gameplan to dominate the Lions. Good starting option for week 3.

Week 2 of the 2018 NFL season is upon  us.   Last week, I rode the Ravens defense and James Conner to fantasy glory while holding Nathan Peterman on my bench in the hopes of trade bait and a good first game.  Peterman didn't give me that game, but luckily he was just a bench guy.  There are some fascinating story lines heading into week two, and some key opportunities to help your rosters.  Who do I like this week?  Here are some ideas.  Good luck, and happy streaming!--Mike B.
 
Josh Allen, QB, Buffalo Bills. Allen's not a guy I'd trust to carry my fantasy team yet, but if I can snag him now and flip him after a big couple of games, then he's worth it.  I wouldn't start him against the Chargers, but he might just be worth a roster spot if he can put up Tyrod Taylor-caliber numbers in Buffalo.
 
Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. I don't believe that Fitzpatrick is a  viable fantasy option on a weekly basis.  I do, however, believe that a team with a bad quarterback situation might pay for Fitzpatrick if you can get him on waivers.  Get him, hold him, and if he has a big second week, trade him immediately for anything you can get.  He's worth a flip at least.
 
Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore Ravens. I don't trust Flacco most weeks, and most weeks I wouldn't start him against the Bengals.  However, the Bengals historically struggle in prime time games, and Flacco could be a sneaky streamer start this week at Cincinnati.
 
Tyrod Taylor, QB, Cleveland Browns.  Taylor almost beat the Steelers in week one, and will  enter week two as the starting quarterback for the franchise. At the Saints, I expect the Browns to be playing from behind, which means that Taylor will see a large amount of passing attempts.  He could be in for a good game.
 
Alex Collins, RB, Baltimore Ravens.  With Dixon going down with injury, and with Cincinnati's prime time struggles, this might be the best week to start Collins.  He could be a matchup-winner this week.
 
Carlos Hyde, RB, Cleveland Browns.  Hyde had a nice week one for the Browns and should continue to take up a significant amount of touches for the Browns.  He's a hold, and worth rostering.
 
Dion Lewis, RB, Tennessee Titans.  Lewis is almost a must start for the Titans; I expect him to have another big week in the Titans passing game. If you're semi-weak at RB, plug him in as a RB3 or flex play.
 
Sony Michel, RB, New England Patriots.  Try to trade for Michel if you have a guy who overperformed in week 1; if you can get someone to sell on him easily, he's worth the move.  He's a player that might be a league winner near the end of the season.
 
Adrian Peterson, RB, Washington Redskins.  I don't trust older running backs, but Peterson's week one performance bears noticing.  He had a great week one and if this continues, he could be a useful fantasy asset, and needs to be rostered. Against the Colts, he's worth starting.
 
TJ Yeldon, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars. With Fournette banged up, Yeldon is a guy that needs to be on your radar.  If he starts this week, then he needs to be in your lineup.  The guy has talent and could help you win in week two.
 
Nelson Agholor, WR, Philadelphia Eagles. Agholor might have a really big game for the Eagles against a Tampa Bay team with a weakened secondary. He might just be a good third WR option, but one that will put up decent points for your team this week.
 
Dez Bryant, FA WR. Dez is still lurking, and was seen at a concert with Jerry Jones.  This could bode well for a potential return to Dallas.  If you can go get him, get him now and keep him on your bench.
 
Quincy Enumwa, WR, New York Jets. Enumwa might have one of the best signatures in today's NFL, and he's also in line to make a run at the NFL comeback player of the year award.  He showed a good rapport with Sam Darnold in week one and should be rostered, especially in PPR leagues.
 
Devin Funchess/DJ Moore, WRs, Carolina Panthers.  With Greg Olsen dealing with injury and with the Falcons weaknesses in their secondary, Funchess and Moore have the potential for big weeks.  Snag and start one if available. 
 
Kenny Stills, WR, Miami Dolphins. I'm a huge Stills fan, and he is always undervalued.  He had a huge week one and could build off of that start throughout the season.  If nothing else, he could be a solid flex play throughout your fantasy season.  Needs to be rostered in all formats.
 
Jared Cook, TE, Oakland Raiders. Cook is a potential long-term starter for your fantasy team at tight end.  If he's available it's time to add him to your roster.  Go get him now.
 
George Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers.  I will never get the lack of love for Kittle.  He needs to be rostered in all leagues, and if you have an option to add him to your team, take it and run.  This kid is good.
 
David Njoku, TE, Cleveland Browns.  If Njoku is unowned in your league, go get him.  You'll thank me later. Let's get this straight now, Njoku has the talent to be a  viable fantasy weapon in all formats.
 
Baltimore Ravens D/ST. The Ravens are facing a good offense against Cincinnati, but they face them in prime time.  This could be a huge week for this unit.
 
Chicago Bears D/ST.  The Bears are who I think they are, and that's a team with a pretty good defense.  Against the Seahawks, they could be in for a sneaky-good game.  I'm starting them if I can get them, especially with Khalil Mack.
 
LA Chargers D/ST.  I always trust the Chargers defense, but against a rookie quarterback making his first career start in the NFL, I especially trust this unit. Well worth a start this week.
​

The 2018 season is upon us, and with the advent of a new season comes a new year of fantasy football.  I got behind on this column last season but am starting fresh in 2018, with a weekly continuation of it.  Week 1 will be a fun ride, as players and roles are still in flux.  Who am I starting or stashing?  Here are some thoughts.  Good luck, and happy streaming! Mike B.

Andy Dalton, QB, Cincinnati Bengals.  Do you trust the Colts defense? The Colts don't even trust the Colts defense. If ever there was a chance to start Andy Dalton, now is your chance against the Colts.  

Jared Goff, QB, LA Rams.  This week Goff plays the Raiders without Khalil Mack.  That makes for an easy day for Goff, who had a solid season last year as well.  Goff is a guy who is a huge sleeper this season and could be in for an outstanding year.  Worth snagging in all formats.

Chad Kelly, QB, Denver Broncos.  Kelly is the quintessential long-game snag.  He won't start week 1 and may not start for a good portion of the season.  However, if Case Keenum struggles,  Kelly has the talent to come in and make some noise as a starter.  I'm a big fan and am stashing him in leagues where I have an extra roster spot, just in case.

Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants. Eli is back for another season, and has his receivers healthy.  He also has a new running back in Saquon Barkley.  People are sleeping on Eli right now because of and up and down 2017 season, but he could have a huge year this year.  Worth a grab if he's available.

Nathan Peterman, QB, Buffalo Bills. DO NOT start Peterman this week unless you are ok with possibly losing week one.  However, as the new starter for the Buffalo Bills, he is an intriguing grab-and-stash.  If he plays well, he should keep the starting role for a while, and with a big game or two, he might be useful trade bait.

Mitch Trubisky, QB, Chicago Bears.  Trubisky is a guy to snag now who might pay major long-term dividends.  He could absolutely be in line for a big 2018 season with improved weapons all around him.  Go get him if you need help at the position and he's sitting there.

Giovanni Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals. While Joe Mixon gets most of the attention in the Cincinnati backfield, Bernard will get a decent sized share of carries on a weekly basis.  If you need a flex guy, he could be your man.

Matt Breida, RB, San Francisco 49ers.  The 49ers need a starting RB.  This starting RB might be Breida.  He's not a guarantee to win your league for you, but is definitely a guy who could play a key role and put up nice numbers for your team.  Well worth a grab.  I'm holding him wherever possible.

Alex Collins, RB, Baltimore Ravens.  The Bills have been bad against the run recently, and the Ravens will be looking to control the game in the second half if Peterman struggles and generates turnovers.  That means garbage time yards for the Ravens RBs.  Collins is a guy to roll with this week.

Corey Clement, RB, Philadelphia Eagles.  Clement is in line for a big role in the Eagles offense, even if Ajayi stays healthy all season.  If he's available, add him now.

James Conner, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers.  Le'Veon Bell is holding out and James Conner looks like the second coming of Jerome Bettis if you look at a picture of him.  Plus, he beat cancer and is the token starter at running back for the Steelers until Bell returns.  He needs to be owned in all formats if Bell does not play, and he needs to be owned now.  If Bell is out for a while, this move could be a league winner.

Chase Edmonds, RB, Arizona Cardinals.  Don't start Edmonds yet, he still needs to show that he will receive regular touches in Arizona.  However, the upside is there for him to play a Danny Woodhead or Tarik Cohen-type of role in Arizona.  In fact, I compared him to Woodhead a year before he was drafted.  He could carve out a nice niche in the Arizona backfield.

Jordan Wilkins, RB, Indianapolis Colts.  Wilkins is the quintessential sleeper, and could see a ton of carries early in the season with Marlon Mack dealing with injury issues.  If you need someone to start early, he's worth a roll of the dice.

Dez Bryant, WR, Free Agent All-Star.  Sooner or later, Bryant should sign with a team.  When he does, people will be scrambling for him.  Stash him on your roster and buy in on the hype when he signs.  He's a guy to hold and flip. 

Michael Gallup/Allen Hurns, WRs, Dallas Cowboys.  Who is the #1 WR in Dallas?  One of these guys! Gallup is likely the guy, but both are worth rostering if you're weak at the position.

Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Godwin is the #2 option in Tampa and should make a lot of noise once Winston returns.  This is a bit of a long-term play, but he could be useful for your team.

Marquise Goodwin, WR, San Francisco 49ers.  I don't trust any 49ers WRs right now.   However, I trust Goodwin more than most of them.  He could be in line for a really big year, and if that happens, you'll want to buy in early.  Now is the time to get him while you still have a chance.

Devin Funchess, WR, Carolina Panthers.  The Panthers just drafted DJ Moore, and people are sleeping on Funchess.  However, rookie receivers take a few weeks to adjust to life in the NFL.  Funchess could have a few really big weeks to start out the season.  Now's the time to snag him and flip him after a big game or two.

Kenny Stills, WR, Miami Dolphins.  The Dolphins need to replace the touches lost to Jarvis Landry.  Stills has proven to be a vital part of the Dolphins offense and is still largely forgotten about.  Could be a nice volume play.

John Ross, WR, Cincinnati Bengals.  Ross is un-owned in many formats.  However, he was also a high profile draft pick for the Bengals who missed his first season due to injury.  Ross is a lottery pick-type of play, but he could be a big play threat if he stays healthy.  Worth that last spot on your roster.

Tyler Eifert, TE, Cincinnati Bengals.  As long as Eifert is healthy he is a threat to put up big numbers at the TE position.  People are sleeping on him right now because of his extensive injury history, but he's a guy to take a gamble on as long as he is healthy.

George Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers.  George Kittle needs to be owned in all formats.   Period.

David Njoku, TE, Cleveland Browns.  Njoku gets no credit because he is a Brown, but he had a solid rookie campaign and will only improve from there.  He's a guy who you can plug in at the position especially as a TE 2.  Well worth holding.

Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars.  Jenkins might just be the #2 receiving option in Jacksonville this season.  Not bad for a guy you can get for free right now.  Has the talent to play a nice role at a perfect price.

Baltimore Ravens D/ST.  Last time Nathan Peterman started an NFL game, it wasn't pretty.  If you want to bank on past performance in an extremely limited sample size, then the Ravens D/ST might be your best play this week.  Well worth  starting this week.

Cincinnati Bengals D/ST.  People forget how decent the core of this unit is, and against the Luck-less Colts, this unit should put up some nice numbers this week.  Worth a start.

​Week 5 of the 2017 NFL regular season is upon us, and with week 5 comes bye weeks! The Falcons, Broncos, Saints, and Redskins are all on bye, which means many fantasy players will need help with their rosters this week.  At the same time, rookie running back Dalvin Cook is likely out for  the season with an ACL tear.  This is the point in the season where individual waiver wire pickups can make the difference between winning or losing a matchup. Who do I like this week?  Here are some thoughts.  Hope this helps, and happy streaming!!--Mike B.
 
Jared Goff, QB,  LA Rams. Goff is finally starting to look like a first round pick in an offense that is finally starting to look like an NFL offense.  If you nee a streamer,  Goff is an angle.
 
Tyrod Taylor, QB, Buffalo Bills. Taylor is a sneaky-good fantasy option every week. Against the Bengals, he could be primed for a very nice fantasy performance. He's worth a look.
 
DeShaun Watson, QB,  Houston Texans. This kid is the real deal for the Texans and is in the running for offensive rookie of the year honors.  He's a dual-threat type of player who will put up numbers on both the ground and through the air.  If you need help at QB, he should be on your radar.
 
Jameis Winston, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Winston is not available in most leagues, but if you're in a small league and Winston is on the waiver wire, get him into your starting lineup against the Patriots this week!
 
Alex Collins, RB, Baltimore Ravens.  Is Collins the RB to own in the Baltimore backfield?  He's starting to look like it.  If nothing else, he's worth a flier pick or even a bye week fill-in role.
 
Aaron Jones, RB, Green Bay Packers. With Green Bay's injuries at running back, Jones may see significant time this week. That makes him worth a roll of the ice if you're hurting at the position.
 
Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints. Kamara is the best running back in the Saints backfield, and also their best receiving back. He should be owned in all leagues.
 
Doug Martin, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Doug Martin is coming back from suspension and back into fantasy relevance.  Go get him if he's available.
 
Latavius Murray, RB, Minnesota Vikings.  Need a RB1?  Is Murray still available?  Go get him.  Murray could be a league-winner with Cook missing most or all of the season.
 
Geronimo Allison, WR, Green Bay Packers. Geronimo Allison has one of the best names in football.  He also has a ton of opportunity right now thanks to injuries in Green Bay.  He's worth a gamble start.
 
Will Fuller, WR, Houston Texans. Watson's talent at quarterback is making Fuller relevant as a receiver and a fantasy option.  He's worth adding now in all leagues.
 
Devin Funchess, WR, Carolina Panthers.  Funchess is going to be streaky, but after last week's game, he's worth snagging now in case he breaks out.  The arrow is trending up on Devin Funchess now.
 
Juju Smith-Schuster, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers.  Smith-Schuster is going to be TD dependent throughout his rookie season, but he's showing that he can regularly produce early in his career. He's likely available and if you want to take a gamble, give Juju a shot.
 
Charles Clay, TE, Buffalo Bills. Clay is finally carving out a role for himself in Buffalo.  Historically, the Bengals have struggled against TEs, which makes Clay a real fantasy option this week.
 
Tyler Kroft, TE, Cincinnati Bengals. Kroft has fantasy relevance again thanks to Tyler Eifert's constant injuries. He's worth a streaming start here.
 
New York Jets D/ST.  Deshone Kizer has struggled so far this season. He has a higher interception rate than yards per attempt so far this season.  The Jets are barely owned, and they're the unit to stream this week.

​Week 4 of the 2017 NFL regular season is here, and the waiver wire is active. First off, my apologies for missing week 3 after a brutal work schedule and putting together an upcoming interview with a surprise player.   Getting back into the mix now. Every week in the NFL is crazy, with injuries hitting left and right and bye weeks coming soon.  There are great options on the waiver wire in all leagues. Who do I like? Here are some options.  Hope this helps, and happy streaming!--Mike B.
 
Blake Bortles, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars. I'm higher on Bortles than you are.  He's the king of garbage time production and will always be a better fantasy QB than real QB. If he's available he's worth a snag.
 
Jared Goff, QB, LA Rams. Goff finally looks like the real deal as an NFL quarterback, and he could put together a nice week for the Rams against the Cowgirls.  Worth a snag in all leagues.
 
Deshone Kizer, QB, Cleveland Browns.  Kizer is my sleeper candidate this week.  Will the Bengals choke again this week against the Browns? If so, then Kizer could have a big game.  It's a huge gamble, but if it pays off you'll look brilliant.
 
DeShaun Watson, QB,  Houston Texans. Watson is the guy in Houston, and he's a dual-threat QB who can generate points in all formats. Worth a stash in every league.  Use him as a matchup play.
 
Gio Bernard, QB, Cincinnati Bengals. Are you in a PPR league? Go get Bernard.  He's always going to be the pass-catching back in Cincy, at least as long as he's there.  Worth a snag against the Browns this week.
 
Tarik Cohen, RB, Chicago Bears. If Cohen is not owned in your league, your league is stupid or extremely small. GO GET HIM! The kid is this year's version of the old Darren Sproles and is borderline start-worthy on a weekly basis.
 
Chris Johnson/Kerwynn Williams, RBs, Arizona Cardinals. Johnson is the guy you want here most likely after dominating snaps last week, but Williams, who only played one offensive snap last week, is also worth considering against the 49ers.  Who knows? Williams could secure a role in this offense and he's probably available now.
 
Alvin Kamara, QB, New Orleans Saints. Kamara is the best option in the Saints backfield, and he's a guy who you want on your roster. If he's available, snag him now before it's too late.  He's a potential RB1 long-term.
 
Doug Martin, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Doug Martin will be back from his suspension after this week, and if he regains control of the Bucs backfield, he's a must-have in all formats. Snag him now to beat the rush.
 
Joe Mixon, RB, Cincinnati Bengals. Mixon  should not be on your waiver wire, but if someone dropped him after a slow start, now is the time to pounce.  Also feel free to lowball the owner who has him if he's not on waivers.  Mixon had a solid game with a new offensive coordinator and should be ready to contribute immediately. He's a must-add.
 
Wendell Smallwood, RB, Philadelphia Eagles. With Darren Sproles injured, someone has to pick up the slack.  Smallwood might be that guy.  He's worth an add if you have an extra spot to fill.
 
Jermaine Kearse, WR, New York Jets. I will ride the Kearse bandwagon until he is owned in all leagues.  I've started him every game this season and don't regret it for a second.  He's a must-own.
 
Marqise Lee, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars. Hurns is the bigger touchdown threat, but Lee is the WR1 in Jacksonville following the injury to Allen Robinson. Go get him.  He's a starter-worthy player.
 
Sterling Shephard, WR, New York Giants. Shephard is always going to be an underrated receiving option in New York. He's also going to be productive.  Go get him if you need a WR3.
 
Seth Roberts, WR, Oakland Raiders. How injured is Michael Crabtree? If his injury is bad, then you want to add Roberts.   If Crabtree is going to be limited, then Roberts will have a big game. If we want to jump into basic philosophy, then we want to add Seth Roberts Iff (if and only if) we think Crabtree will be limited.  If so, he's a worthwhile add.
 
Evan Engram, TE, New York Giants. Engram is bordering on every-week starter in large leagues territory, and is a guy that you should consider if you need help at the position.
 
Marcedes Lewis, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars. I include Lewis here as a cautionary tale.  We've seen glimmers of greatness from Lewis throughout his career, but never an entire season. Don't put too much stock in him after one big week, but if you can get him as a waiver claim, snag him and trade him.
 
David Njoku, TE, Cleveland Browns. Njoku is turning into a touchdown threat; he's scored the past two weeks and has therefore put up big fantasy games each time.  He's not a volume guy, but he's got the potential to get you some points on a weekly basis.
 
Cleveland Browns D/ST.  Want to take a gamble and potentially look brilliant? The Browns defense could have a big week against the Bengals this week.  This Cleveland defense is no joke and could put up a big week against a Bengals team with major holes on the offensive line.
 
Green Bay Packers D/ST.The Bears offense has been terrible on the road this season in one appearance, and that streak could continue at Lambeau.  This is another gamble pick, but a good one.
 
Jacksonville Jaguars D/ST. I'm starting the Jaguars defense whenever possible this week against a weak Jets offense.  This is one of the hidden best units in football, and they're due for a huge week against the Jets.
 
Seattle Seahawks D/ST. The Seahawks always struggle early in the season.  Now is when this unit steps it up against an Indianapolis Colts team without Andrew Luck.

​With week 1 of the 2017 NFL season in the books, numerous big-name players are dealing with injury issues.  Wide receivers Kevin White and Allen Robinson are done for the year.  Running backs David Johnson and Danny Woodhead are going to miss significant time. Quarterback Andrew Luck is still dealing with injuries and will miss week 2.  Clearly commissioner Roger Goodell has done a phenomenal job making the league safer for players, and should be applauded.  OK that sarcasm was intended.  That being said, it's already becoming an interesting season for fantasy players! It's time to make some moves that can help you win now.  Who am I targeting this week? Here are some options. Hope this helps, and happy streaming! -- Mike B.
 
Sam Bradford, QB, Minnesota Vikings. Bradford once again showed that he is a fantasy starter-caliber quarterback in week one.  If you need help at the position this week, then he is a legitimate option.  He could be in for a big year for the Vikings.
 
Alex Smith, QB, Kansas City Chiefs. Smith had a huge week one performance against the Patriots, and could be in for a respectable week 2 against the Eagles.  He's not an every-week starter, but he's a guy that has value this week.  Take a look if you need help at the position.
 
DeShaun Watson, QB, Houston Texans. I'm usually against starting rookie quarterbacks in their first career NFL start, but this week the Texans face the Bengals in prime time.  The Bengals have historically struggled in prime time games under head coach Marvin Lewis, and if Watson pulls a start this week, he could be in for a surprisingly big game.
 
Javorious Allen, RB, Baltimore Ravens. With Danny Woodhead missing up to 8 weeks due to injury,  Allen is the likely beneficiary.  Snag him if you want to roll the dice on a player with upside.
 
Tarik Cohen, RB, Chicago Bears. To me, Cohen was one of the top three running backs in the 2017 NFL draft.  The Bears snagged him and are capitalizing on his talent early.  After a big week 1, he deserves a spot on all rosters.  If you lost Danny Woodhead, Cohen's a great replacement.
 
Kerwynn Williams/Chris Johnson, RBs, Arizona Cardinals. Williams is the guy to target here, but Johnson is back in Arizona and could see carries here.  If you can't get WIlliams, snag Johnson if you have an extra spot and want to take a gamble.
 
Nelson Agholor, WR, Philadelphia Eagles.  Nelson Agholwho?! Prior to the season Agholor looked like a huge bust for the Eagles, but broke out in a very real way in week .  If he can continue that breakout, he could be a steal as a waiver claim. Grab him if available.
 
Corey Davis, WR, Tennessee Titans. After a dominant week 1 performance, Davis has shown that he should be owned in ALL leagues. Go get him.
 
Kenny Golladay, WR, Detroit Lions. Golladay had a great week 1 performance for the Lions, and could continue to impress, especially with Golden Tate already dinged up.  Worth a stash and even a potential start this week if you're needy at the position.
 
Allen Hurns/Marquise Lee, WRs, Jacksonville Jaguars. Hurns and Lee will benefit from the Allen Robinson injury in Jacksonville.  One of them might even emerge to put up WR1 numbers for the team.  I'm leaning towards Hurns since he's had strings of big games here and there, but both guys are viable options.
 
Jermaine Kearse, WR, New Jersey Jets. If you need a guy that has the potential to put up 7 or 8 points a game down the stretch, Kearse might be your guy. He's a talented receiver playing in an offense with very little receiving talent.  Give him a look.
 
Cooper Kupp, WR, LA Rams. As a Montana State grad, I've been on Kupp since his early days in the Big Sky Conference with Eastern Washington University. This kid can play and has the talent to develop into a  Julian Edelman-type of fantasy asset, and his fantasy floor is Brian Hartline.  He needs to be rostered in all formats, and he needs to be rostered now.  Go get him.
 
Austin Hooper, TE, Atlanta Falcons. Hooper is one of those talented players that nobody has heard of.  Then again, he had over 100 yards receiving and a TD in week 1.  The kid has talent, but will not always get a ton of opportunity in Atlanta with a lot of talent in that offense.  If he starts to build a rapport with Matt Ryan, however, his value will skyrocket.  Snag him now.
 
Jesse James, TE, Pittsburgh Steelers. In week one, James had two TD receptions and showed that he can develop into a trusted target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Grab him now, before his price goes through the roof after someone else claims him.
 
Houston Texans D/ST.  Somewhere, somebody dropped the Texans defense after week 1's horrendous loss.  If that somebody is in your league, grab this unit immediately. They should put up some huge numbers against Andy Dalton and the Bengals on Thursday night.
 
LA Rams D/ST. In week one, the Rams showed that they are a formidable force on defense.  If they're available for week 2, snag them immediately. This unit should be terrifyingly good throughout the season.

​Week 1 of the 2017 NFL Season is upon us.  The Dolphins and Buccaneers will miss their week 1 matchup (postponed until week 11 due to severe weather).  Zeke Elliott will play in week 1, although his suspension has been upheld by the NFL.  Julian Edelman is out for the season.  It's already a productive time to hit the waiver wire.  Who do I like this week?  Here are some thoughts.  Hope this helps, and happy streaming!--Mike B.


Tyrod Taylor, QB, Buffalo Bills. Taylor is a guy who should be owned in all formats, but is often available on waivers.  He's a better fantasy quarterback than a real world one, but he's someone that will help you win matchups this season.  Snag him if he's available.

Carson Palmer, QB, Arizona Cardinals.  Palmer is a guy who will help you early this season.  If you're dealing with Andrew Luck or Jameis Winston, Palmer is a legitimate plug and play guy that can help you win this week.  If you need help early at the position, snag him.

Carson Wentz, QB, Philadelphia Eagles. Wentz is a guy who could break out this week against a weak Washington defense.  He had a solid rookie season and has the tools around him this year to take the next step in his development. He's worth a stash, or even a spot start this year.

Rex Burkhead, RB, New England Patriots. Burkhead is already being forgotten in New England.  That's just the way Bill Belichick likes it.  Given Belichick's random way of starting and using RBs, Burkhead should have a few big games this season.  When? Your guess is as good as mine.  Stash him and trade him to your league's token Patriots fan when he has a big game, and then watch as the token's hopes and dreams are deflated.

James Conner, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers.  Conner will be a league winner if (when?) Le'Veon Bell goes down with an injury this season.  He also could see carries right out of the gate.  He's a guy that should be rostered now.

Duke Johnson, RB, Cleveland Browns.  Johnson is a guy that I expect Cleveland to rely on heavily this season.  He's also a guy that gets overlooked a lot due to Isaiah Crowell.  If you're in a bind at the moment, Johnson is worth a snag if he's available.

Darren McFadden, RB, Dallas Cowboys. Zeke is playing this week, but not next week.  That makes McFadden immediately fantasy relevant.  If he's on waivers now, grab him and start him in Zeke's absence.

Zach Zenner, RB, Detroit Lions.  Zenner has shown that he can be a bell cow back in Detroit.  Detroit's other running backs have shown that they are injury risks.  Snag him now, and plug him in when he plays this year.

Philip Dorsett, WR, New England Patriots.  The Patriots traded for Dorsett on cut day. He's essentially T.Y. Hilton 2.0.  He didn't do much in Indy, but the Colts already had Hilton.  Dorsett can help you win throughout the season.

Ted Ginn, WR, New Orleans Saints. Ginn is one of the streakiest players in fantasy, but he could be poised for a great season this year as a Saint.  He's a guy I'm starting to cover Mike Evans this week.

Jermaine Kearse, WR, New York Jets. The Jets made a move for Kearse to open the season, and he could see meaningful snaps starting this year. He's a talented player who was hidden in a run-based scheme in Seattle.  Now he goes to an offense with few weapons. Expect a big year out of him.

Sterling Shephard, WR, New York Giants. Shepard is the forgotten man in the Giants receiving corps.  He could also have a productive season.  Get him now while he's cheap.

Tyrell Williams, WR, LA Chargers. Williams needs to be rostered right now with Mike Williams injured.  He generated more than 1000 yards last season, and could be a major contributor this season as well.

Kendall Wright, WR, Chicago Bears.  With Cameron Meredith out for the season, Wright could emerge as the #1 WR in Chicago.  He's worth a look in most formats.

Evan Engram, TE, New York Giants.  Engram looked amazing in the preseason and should play a key role in the Giants offense.  He's a guy who should be on your radar.

Greg Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers.  Kittle won the starting job with the 49ers.  He's not a guy I'd start in week 1, but from a metrics approach, Kittle could have a breakout year this year.  Expect him to break out late in the season.

Baltimore Ravens D/ST.  The Ravens travel to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals this week. Cincy has a ton of offensive weapons, but a very lackluster offensive line.  No offensive line means an underperforming offense.  This is a gamble, but a play that could pay off if you want to roll the dice a bit.

LA Rams D/ST. This week, the Rams face opposing quarterback Scott Tolzien.  Tolzien was a decent quarterback for Wisconsin.  He's not a decent quarterback in the NFL.

Pittsburgh Steelers D/ST.  This week, the Steelers face the Cleveland Browns.  Cleveland is going to be an improved team this year, but this is Kizer's first career start.  

Younghoe Koo, K, LA Chargers.  This is the first time I've recommended a kicker in my streamer post. This is also the first time that Younghoe Koo has been available.  I recommend that he be rostered in all leagues.

​Every fantasy league has that one guy.  You know the type.  The guy who has a great draft but loses his starters to injury and never recovers.  We'll call him Brad. I've been Brad before, and it's never a good feeling.  On the other hand, there's always that other competitor who has an ok draft, but looks like a middle-of-the-pack team early in the season, only to go on and contend for the title thanks to smart waiver claims and late round picks.  We'll call her Janet.  I've also been Janet in some leagues, and it's fun.  If you want to be a Brad, don't read any farther.  If you want to be a Janet, let's continue.
 
The road to fantasy dominance is paved with sleepers and overlooked players. Some great players play for overlooked teams like the Browns, and may see their draft stock slip because of it.  Others are in good situations, but with an element of risk involved. These are the players that can win you a title if you hit on them.  It's the beginning of July, so it's still early.  A lot of things will change between now and the beginning of the season.  That being said, here are some guys that I like more than you right now, and who should at least be tucked away in the back of your head on draft day or as potential waivers claims.  Good luck, and happy drafting!--Mike B.
 
Quarterbacks.
 
Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars. Bortles will likely get drafted far later than he should this year due to concerns with his throwing mechanics. That being said, he is rumored to have fixed those issues, and the Jaguars just added a dominant running back to take some pressure off of him.  Bortles could be in store for a big season.
 
Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals. Don't let Cincinnati's down year last season make you sleep on Andy Dalton.  The Bengals just added some big weapons for Dalton with John Ross and Joe Mixon.  Consider last season a bad year for Dalton, and take a gamble on him this year, especially if you can snag him at a backup price.
 
Tyrod Taylor, Buffalo Bills. Taylor's not an elite passer, but he's a dual-threat guy that will win you matchups with his feet. He's been under-drafted so far in his career, so you may be able to get a bargain on him. Well worth a late target.
 
Running Backs.
 
James Conner, Pittsburgh Steelers. Conner is the best contingency plan in all of fantasy football at running back.  Do you trust Le'Veon Bell to stay healthy this season?  Do you really?  The guy misses a ton of time, and Conner is likely the next in line in the Steelers backfield, making him roster-worthy in all but the shallowest formats.  If Bell goes down for a long period of time or gets suspended, Conner could be a guy that wins your league.
 
Isaiah Crowell, Cleveland Browns. Isaiah Crowell is a Brown, which means he gets no respect.  Last season, however, he showed that he is capable of producing starter-worthy numbers.  This year with an improved offense, he could be one of the surprise players of the season.  Well worth a grab.  He may ultimately lose carries to Duke Johnson, but early in the season he should be big.  Draft him, and if he starts to lose  touches, trade him while his value is high.
 
Kenneth Dixon, Baltimore Ravens. Dixon's value will drop due to his 4 game suspension.  That being said, you don't win a fantasy title in the first four games.  He's a guy that could put up starter-worthy numbers down the stretch, so if he's there late, give him a shot. He was one of the better backs from his class, so there's potential value here.
 
Todd Gurley, LA Rams. The guy had a bad season last year after showing he could dominate as a starter as a rookie.  If the Rams can get something going in the passing game, Gurley is a huge bounceback candidate who could win your league for you.  He should be on your radar.
 
D'onta Foreman, Houston Texans. Foreman's value is heavily dependent on Lamar Miller's health. That being said, Lamar Miller has a history of injury issues.  He's a guy that's worth a late stash.
 
Paul Perkins, New York Giants. This year, while everyone is throwing darts at Samaje Perine and Rob Kelley, sit back, wait, and draft Paul Perkins.  He could emerge as the lead back in New York (Jersey) this year.  Well worth a late grab.
 
Bilal Powell, New York (Jersey) Jets. My bold prediction for the season: Bilal Powell will be the top running back in the Jets backfield this year. Given the lack of a starting caliber quarterback anywhere near the Jets roster (unless you count Eli Manning since he plays his home games in the same stadium), Powell could put up some nice numbers this year.
 
Zach Zenner, Detroit Lions. On paper, Zenner is third in line for carries in Detroit behind Theo Riddick and Ameer Abdullah.  That being said, Abdullah is injury-prone and Riddick is mainly a pass-catching guy.  Zenner has shown he is capable of being a workhorse, and with another solid preseason (he led the NFL in rushing yards in the preseason his rookie season to secure his roster spot), he could take over the top role in the Detroit backfield. 
 
Wide Receivers.
 
Kamar Aiken, Indianapolis Colts. Aiken is one of those guys that gets a ton of hype.  That being said, he might live up to the hype this year in Indianapolis. He's the type of player that Andrew Luck enjoys throwing to, and he could outperform Phillip Dorsett this season.  Worth a late look.
 
Pierre Garcon, San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers are still in the process of a rebuild. That being said, Garcon is a talented, experienced receiver in an empty offense.  He could put up some big games.
 
Ted Ginn Jr., New Orleans Saints. The Saints no longer have Brandin Cooks, which means there are going to be a lot of opportunities for other players to go around.  Ginn is never going to be a #1 guy for your fantasy roster, but he does have both the talent and the situation to put up numbers worthy of bye week and matchup-based starts.  He's going to be hit or miss, but he could pay off for a week or two.
 
Andrew Hawkins, New England Patriots. Everyone forgets about Hawkins now that he's spent time with the Browns.  In Cincinnati, he used to put up occasional starter-worthy games.  His value is touchdown dependent of course, but he has the talent to thrive catching passes from Tom Brady.  Probably won't be a guy you'll start, but he's definitely fill-in worthy depending on how he fits.
 
Allen Hurns, Jacksonville Jaguars. Blake Bortles has a new coach and allegedly has fixed his throwing mechanics, which means that Hurns could see a nice uptick in production this year. He's touchdown dependent, but he could be in for a big year if the Jaguars can get something going on offense.
 
Kenny Stills, Miami Dolphins. Stills had a quietly productive season last year.  This year, he could also play a nice role in the Dolphins offense. He's a dart throw that I love with a late-round pick. Keep in mind that the guy scored 9 touchdowns last season. He can play.
 
Kevin White, Chicago Bears. White's value has slipped in recent years for obvious reasons; the guy has not been healthy in two seasons in the NFL.  That being said, he's in a position to steal the #1 role in Chicago with both Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery out of town. He's a huge injury risk, but if he pans out, he's a potential top ten receiver. Target him accordingly.
 
Robert Woods, LA Rams. Who is the top WR in LA this year?  If you look at Woods' contract, it might be him. Tavon Austin is not a #1 receiver, and the Rams just paid Woods like one.  Look at him as the potential top receiver for the Rams.
 
Tight Ends.
 
Austin Hooper, Atlanta Falcons. I expect Austin Hooper to break out in 2017.  He's not a household name yet, but he showed flashes last season.  He could put up top ten tight end numbers this season.  If that's the case, he will easily outplay his draft position.
 
Jesse James, Pittsburgh Steelers. James is quietly emerging as one of Roethlisberger's favorite redzone targets, which makes him  fantasy relevant as a tight end.  He's a fill-in caliber guy most of the time, but he's also a guy that could potentially be starter worthy depending on how his role develops heading into the season. Watch him closely.
 
George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers. Kittle is a rookie who many people have never heard of...which means he'll likely be there in the last round of your draft.  Rookie tight ends tend to take a while to develop in the NFL, so don't draft him as a starter.  However, early looks suggest that he could carve out a major role in the 49ers offense. Take a chance on him with your final pick, and you could have a stud on your hands.
 
Adam Shaheen, Chicago Bears. Shaheen's value is potentially more next season than it is this season as a small school tight end transitioning to the NFL, but he's shown some great things in college.  He's a big gamble, but one who has the talent and ability to pay off.
 
Erik Swoope, Indianapolis Colts. Swoope is a dart throw, but the Colts love two tight-end sets, and Swoope showed some great things last season in very limited playing time.  He could emerge as a potential bye week starter this season, at least. He average 19.8 yards per catch in limited playing time, so there's potential here.

​Week 17 of the 2016 NFL Season is upon us, and with it comes the last round of fantasy championship matchups.  While many leagues end in week 16, some leagues play their final match in the final game of the season. That presents problems for fantasy rosters, as teams begin to rest starters in preparation for the playoffs.  I'm losing Le'Veon Bell for my title game this week because the Steelers are giving him a week off (but if you listened to me a few back and grabbed DeAngelo Williams...). Most of the names I list here are desperation plays; you want to roll with the guys who got you to the dance for the most part.  However, if you're this late in the season and need some help, here are some thoughts.  Hope this helps, and happy streaming!!--Mike B.
 
P.S.  Thank you for following this column this season, and hopefully my posts have been useful! This is the final post of the second season of my Weekly Streamer series, and I look forward to continuing it next year.  Best of luck in your title games and in the off-season, and I'll see you on the draft section of the site, along with some random updates here during the offseason!
 
Matt Barkley, QB, Chicago Bears. I still believe that Barkley can be a solid fantasy quarterback with the Bears. If you lost Carr due to injury and need a quick replacement, he might not be a bad option, even against the Vikings.
 
Colin Kaepernick, QB, San Francisco 49ers. Kaepernick is always a decent fantasy option just because of his ability as a runner.  If you need a desperation plug-in at QB, you could do far worse than Kaepernick this week.
 
Matt McGloin, QB, Oakland Raiders.  Matt McGloin had a nice preseason for the Raiders, and gets the start following the injury to Carr. He's also not afraid to take shots down the field.  He's a gamble this week (especially against Denver), but crazier things have happened in the past.  He could be worth a desperation start from a fantasy perspective.
 
Matt Moore, QB, Miami Dolphins.  Is it just me, or does Matt Moore look like a fantasy starter right now?  Six touchdowns and two interceptions in two games? I'll take that, especially if I'm struggling with injuries.  Worth a desperation start.
 
Tony Romo, QB, Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys could continue to roll with Dak Prescott again this week, but there's also the potential that they might toss in Romo for the start instead.  If you're riding Prescott and the waiver wire looks dead, Romo might be a nice insurance policy for you. Then again, he does present an injury risk, so prepare accordingly.
 
Alfred Blue, RB, Houston Texans.  With Lamar Miller recovering from injury and the Texans already in the playoffs, Blue could see the start for Houston in week 17.  He's worth stashing and monitoring through the week.
 
Darren McFadden, RB, Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys may rest Zeke Elliot this week (same with Dak Prescott).  McFadden is worth a speculative add at this point just in case. Don't plan on starting him, but if you (or your opponent) has Zeke or Le'Veon Bell, McFadden becomes  valuable.
 
Jacquizz Rogers, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Doug Martin missed last week due to injury.  If he misses again this week, Rogers becomes a fantasy asset. Worth a stash.
 
DeAndre Washington, RB, Oakland Raiders. Washington had a great game against the Colts.  The Raiders should rely heavily on the run this week with Carr out due to injury, so Washington could have another big game. Worth holding onto.
 
DeAngelo Williams, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers. This could be the pickup that wins your title game; DeAngelo Williams gets to start against the Browns?  Yes please! Easily a starter.
 
Anquan Boldin, WR, Detroit Lions.  Boldin isn't a guy that's going to put up a ton of yards, but he scores touchdowns.  If you want to gamble on big play potential, then Boldin is your man.
 
Pierre Garcon, WR, Washington Redskins. Garcon has been productive again recently, and if DeSean Jackson or Janoris Jenkins miss week 17, he could have a nice game, especially in PPR leagues.
 
JJ Nelson, WR, Arizona Cardinals. With Michael Floyd out of town, Nelson becomes a must own in fantasy leagues.  If you can get him and need help at the position, go for it.
 
Steve Smith, WR, Baltimore Ravens. Smith had a great game against the Steelers, and should show up strong against the Bengals in week 17.  He's worth a start in most formats this week.
 
Adam Thielen, WR, Minnesota Vikings.  Guess what? This kid is better than anyone thought; he's 40 yards shy of 1,000 yards entering week 17.  This week he gets it, and helps your team compete for a title.
 
Charles Clay, TE, Buffalo Bills. Charles Clay has suddenly found his rhythm, with zero touchdowns until week 14, and 4 receiving touchdowns since.  Against the Jets, he's start-worthy in all formats this week.
 
Houston Texans D/ST.  Some owners may have cut the Texans defense after losing JJ Watt.  However, this week, the unit gets to face a Titans offense led by Matt Cassel.  That makes for a nice matchup play.
 
Indianapolis Colts D/ST.  Bortles is still coughing up the football regularly, and that makes the Colts, who face the Jaguars this week, relevant for fantasy purposes.
 
Pittsburgh Steelers D/ST. This week the Steelers face the Browns.  Enjoy.