Week 1 Sits

Here are 5 players you should really consider sitting in fantasy this week … in two minutes or less.

QB: Justin Herbert (LAC) vs. KC

You probably drafted Herbert for his ceiling, but this isn’t the week to chase it. The Chiefs' defense limits play volume and forces efficiency, while the Chargers are leaning back into a run-heavy identity. This offense ranked 28th in offensive plays last year, and they've added two new backs plus a vertical play-action scheme built to slow things down. In a game where Kansas City will push pace but limit clean looks, Herbert's path to a big fantasy day is narrow. Sit him in Week 1.

WR: George Pickens (DAL) @ PHI

The Eagles' secondary isn’t just elite. It’s built to shut down vertical threats like Pickens, who led the NFL in deep target rate and explosive plays per touch last season. Even in a new high-tempo Cowboys offense that projects shootouts, this matchup sets up poorly. Philly’s front five ranks as the best offensive line in football and their offense remains run-heavy, which could squeeze Dallas’s total plays and shift the rhythm away from Pickens’ downfield timing. In a volatile WR3 tier, you can afford to wait for a better spot.

WR: Jayden Higgins (HOU) @ LAR

Jayden Higgins might be locked into two-wide sets opposite Nico Collins, but that doesn’t mean he’s a Week 1 fantasy starter. Despite elite hands and red-zone potential, he’s still a rookie navigating a revamped offense behind a bottom-tier offensive line and alongside two veteran target-earners in Collins and Christian Kirk. Add in the fact that new OC Nick Caley is still installing his system and Higgins’ role could be volatile early on. He’s a bet on talent long term, but for now, keep him on your bench.

RB: Kaleb Johnson (PIT) @ NYJ

The Pittsburgh offense is projected to be one of the slowest in the league, pairing Arthur Smith’s handoff-heavy scheme with Aaron Rodgers’ glacial pace. Johnson's early-down role offers volume, but he’s not involved on passing downs, and this matchup sets up for a slog on both sides. The Jets bring a top-15 offensive line and a run-heavy approach of their own, meaning this game has a real shot to be the lowest total play count of the week. Johnson needs touchdowns to hit, and this week might not give him the chances.

RB: D’Andre Swift (CHI) vs. MIN

The Vikings’ front quietly rebuilt into a top-tier unit, and their revamped O-line gives them control of pace, which leans pass-heavy under Kevin O’Connell. That means fewer plays and fewer red zone trips for the Bears. Swift’s role is receiving-heavy, but his rushing efficiency cratered last year. He was dead last in success rate on zone runs and near the bottom in yards after contact. With the touch split still unsettled between Swift and Roschon Johnson, and the coaching staff yet to show their hand, Swift’s floor is far lower than his name value suggests. You can do better this week.

So that’s the list. 5 players you shouldn’t rely on in Week 1… as promised, in 2 minutes or less.

If you're ready to actually win your league this year, and need more help… The Fantasy Accelerator is my year-round fantasy system designed to help sharp players crush waivers, win more trades, and stack championships.

See you tomorrow,

-Joe