💭 Tough Start and Sit Decisions

Welcome to the Fantasy Drop Army newsletter!

Ready, Set, Sit! Week 8 is here, and it's time to separate the studs from the sideline stars. Let’s make those tough lineup decisions a little easier!

Today in 5 minutes or less, you’ll learn:

• The MUST-START players of Week 8 🔥 

• Players to consider leaving on your bench 🪑 

• The latest news from around the NFL 🏈

SIT: Tony Pollard (TEN)

Yes, Aaron Jones found some success against Detroit’s vaunted run defense in Week 7. But, Pollard is a different story. The Tennessee offense is already 31st in total yards per game, and they are in the bottom 6 in scoring. Combined with the possibility that Tyjae Spears returns this week, and Pollard is best left on benches.

START: Javonte Williams (DEN)

I wrote yesterday that Williams is a sell-high candidate, and I still believe it. But, a matchup against the Panthers is still a matchup against the Panthers. Javonte can ride his hot hand and exploit the league’s weakest defense in defending fantasy running backs.

SIT: Nick Chubb (CLE)

This is not the week to chase Chubb’s points after his 2024 debut. Chubb is still working his way back, as he only handled 11 rushing attempts, but averaged just 2 yards per carry against the Bengals. His touchdown saved his fantasy day. There is hope that Chubb can regain some of his old form and become a fantasy back. But, it won’t happen against the Ravens.

START: De’Von Achane (MIA)

Achane has suffered from the overall failings of the Miami defense since Tua Tagovailoa’s been out. But, the Cardinals provide a decent matchup, allowing the 6th-most rushing yards per game to opposing RBs. If Tua is able to suit up, it’s a green light for all the fantasy-relevant Miami guys. But, Achane should be good to go either way.

SIT: Alexander Mattison (LV)

I like Mattison’s prospects through the middle of the season, but it might be best to wait until after Week 8 to put him back into lineups. The Chiefs’ defense has allowed the least fantasy points per game to RBs, and they’re likely to go ahead big in this one, meaning Mattison may not have the chances.

SIT: Jordan Addison (MIN)

Addison’s last 2 starts have been disappointing, with just 6 total catches between them. His value is dependent on touchdowns even in the best of weeks. But, the Rams defend the WR position fairly well. With Justin Jefferson still taking most of the volume, Addison is a definite fade this weekend.

START: George Pickens (PIT)

Pickens ranks 5th in the NFL in deep targets and just got a massive improvement on the quality of those throws with Russell Wilson now leading the offense. The Steelers will face the Giants on Monday night. They’re vulnerable to the deep ball, so Pickens’ prospects are good this week.

SIT: Diontae Johnson (CAR)

Johnson can still attract a ton of targets, but Andy Dalton has cooled off from his hot start and only connected with Johnson once last weekend. The Broncos represent a challenge for opposing WRs, allowing the 6th fewest fantasy points per game to the position, largely thanks to Patrick Surtain, who will likely shadow Johnson for much of this game.

START: Drake London (ATL)

London’s output has been disappointing for where he was drafted before the season. But, the first matchup with the Bucs ended in a shootout with London having his best game of the season: 12 catches for 154 yards and a touchdown. Tampa will be hobbled on offense, so the Falcons have a real shot to roll this weekend.

SIT: Demario Douglas (NE)

Douglas was pulled from Week 7’s London matchup early, leading to a poor fantasy showing. But, I’m not going back to him this week against the Jets’ formidable defense. Drake Maye has looked solid at times, but growing pains and the overall struggles of New England are screaming to leave Douglas out this week.

🚦 Aaron Jones limited but good to go!

🛑 Mike Evans (hamstring) out until after Week 11 bye

🏃‍♂️ Cooper Kupp (ankle) practices fully, Week 8 return!

🚗 Andy Dalton in car accident, team evaluating status

😷 Deebo Samuel out of hospital, Week 8 status unclear

🦵 T.J. Hockenson (knee) limited, activation looming?

😡 Rodgers: Jets Playing Too Angry

🚨 Chiefs’ Watson to Undergo Surgery for Leg Injuries

😢 Cardinals Lose LB for Remainder of Season

Fantasy Drop Army is a must-read for every NFL fan — pure signal, highly actionable, and one-liners funny enough to make you pee a little bit.

If this one didn’t hit the spot, reply to this email... I would love to hear from you on how you think we can do better next time.