Another week of NFL action is in the books, which means another week of fantasy football highs and lows to sort through. Week 2 felt especially unpredictable, with typically reliable stars struggling and young players beginning to break out. As you set your lineups for Week 3, here are some key risers and fallers to keep in mind.
Risers
Troy Franklin, WR, Denver Broncos
After a quiet rookie year, Franklin has taken a big step forward in Year 2. Against the Colts, he hauled in eight passes for 89 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 11 rushing yards. He played 83 percent of the snaps, the highest of his career so far. Expect him to become a bigger part of the Broncos offense moving forward, making him a quality starting option in all formats.
Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears
Odunze had the best game of his young career against the Lions, racking up seven catches for 128 yards and two touchdowns. It was his second straight game with a score, and early signs point to him surpassing D.J. Moore as Chicago’s top receiver. Heading into Week 3, Odunze is a must-start against a Dallas defense that just allowed the Giants to throw for 450 yards.
Javonte Williams, RB, Dallas Cowboys
What looked like an uninspiring Dallas backfield entering the season has quickly turned into Williams’ show. Through two weeks, he has piled up 151 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground, along with eight receptions for 43 yards. Williams has clearly taken over the lead role, and fantasy managers should feel confident starting him as the Cowboys’ bellcow back.
Fallers
A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Brown is still an elite talent, but his production has been concerning. Through two weeks, he has just six catches for 35 yards and no touchdowns. The Eagles offense has struggled to push the ball downfield, and Brown’s numbers have suffered. He remains a viable start, but it may be time to temper expectations from his past top-tier fantasy days.
Isiah Pacheco, RB, Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are 0–2, and Pacheco has been a non-factor. In two games, he has only 15 carries for 47 yards (3.1 YPC), three catches for 10 yards, and no touchdowns. Patrick Mahomes actually leads the team in rushing. After last season’s injuries and inconsistency, Pacheco has yet to bounce back. For now, he should remain on the bench.
T.J. Hockenson, TE, Minnesota Vikings
Hockenson has struggled to get on the same page with rookie QB J.J. McCarthy (and now he gets journeyman Carson Wentz for several games). He has just four catches for 27 yards and no scores through two games. With Jordan Addison set to return from suspension in Week 4, Hockenson’s role in the passing game could shrink even further. His value is trending down with Justin Jefferson and Addison locked in as the top two options.
Want more Sandman? Come connect with us here at sandmansports.com/onestopshop
