Navigating Fantasy Football Sleepers for Week 5: Kraft, Sermon, Atwell, and More Standouts to Watch
ICARO Media Group
### Week 5 Fantasy Football Sleepers: Can Kraft, Sermon, and Atwell Shine Again?
As Week 5 of the fantasy football season approaches, many are looking to ride the momentum of last week's sleeper picks. In Week 4, players like Geno Smith and Andy Dalton impressed, finishing inside the QB1 starting line. Wide receivers Xavier Legette and Roschon Johnson found the end zone, though Johnson didn't quite eclipse D'Andre Swift as some had hoped. Still, these successes have fueled optimism going into another week of action.
One name to watch this week is Kraft, who shone brightly against Minnesota in Week 4 with a stat line of 6-53-1 on nine targets, even adding a 2-point conversion catch. This kind of performance is invaluable in fantasy leagues, suggesting potential goal-line opportunities in future matchups. As Christian Watson remains sidelined, Green Bay’s passing game is more focused, making Kraft a viable option. Especially with the Rams' defense struggling against tight ends, Kraft's usage from last week is likely to carry over into Week 5.
Turning to the Indianapolis Colts, running back Trey Sermon might step up due to Jonathan Taylor's ongoing ankle rehab. Though Sermon’s professional career has been limited to just 87 carries over four seasons, his average of 4.3 yards per carry shows promise. Should Taylor be unable to play, fantasy managers might find Sermon a compelling plug-and-play against Jacksonville, who rank as the seventh-best matchup for opposing running backs.
In Las Vegas, the running back situation remains dynamic. With the Broncos' defense posing a formidable challenge, Mattison might emerge as the primary option for the Raiders. Head coach Antonio Pierce has hinted at possible backfield changes, especially given Zamir White's recent fumble issues. Mattison’s consistent performance throughout the year positions him as a likely workhorse, which could translate into significant utility for fantasy owners.
Wide receivers also present intriguing options this week. The Rams' offensive woes have thrust Tutu Atwell into a larger role, as evidenced by his deep catches the last two games (93 yards and 82 yards). Similarly, Jordan Whittington has carved out a niche for himself with a solid performance (6-62-0 on eight targets) last week. Facing a vulnerable Packers defense, both Atwell and Whittington could be excellent sleeper picks in what is shaping up to be a high-scoring affair.
Quarterback streaming options are becoming scarcer as most early-season suggestions are now widely rostered. However, Andy Dalton remains a practical choice. With favorable upcoming matchups against the Bears and Falcons, Dalton provides a safe rental option, particularly for those managing Jalen Hurts or Jared Goff.
Las Vegas wide receiver Tucker has also become a reliable option, scoring touchdowns in consecutive games and running routes on 25-of-26 dropbacks last week. Given Davante Adams' uncertain status, Tucker's role is unlikely to diminish, making him a worthwhile consideration.
Lastly, Tampa Bay's tight end Otton might be flying under the radar due to a lack of touchdowns, but his 17 targets over the last two games (13 receptions) signal increasing involvement. With favorable matchups and bye weeks complicating team rosters, Otton presents a solid streaming option or even a longer-term add.
Navigating the unpredictable waters of fantasy football can be challenging, but recognizing potential breakout players like Kraft, Sermon, and Atwell could make all the difference in Week 5.