Steelers Coach Prepares for Potential Start by Justin Fields; Sleeper Option Rises
ICARO Media Group
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, has announced that the team is gearing up to face the Denver Broncos with the expectation that Justin Fields may be starting at quarterback. Despite uncertainty surrounding Russell Wilson's calf injury, Tomlin stated that they would "play it by ear." Fields, who put up modest numbers in the season opener, showcased his rushing abilities with 57 yards on the ground. With an average of nine carries per game throughout his career, Fields' dual-threat style makes him an intriguing fantasy option if he gets the nod as the starting quarterback.
Fields will face a Broncos defense that struggled against Seattle Seahawks' Geno Smith, giving up 30 rushing yards and a touchdown. While Fields might not achieve high passing yardage, his potential for rushing production against Denver's 24th-ranked run defense could make him an enticing option for fantasy managers. In his previous stint as the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears, Fields consistently finished within the top eight fantasy scorers among quarterbacks.
Meanwhile, despite being labeled as one of the NFL's worst starting quarterbacks, Daniel Jones of the New York Giants remains relevant in fantasy football. Jones had a lackluster performance in the season opener, completing just 52.4 percent of his passes and throwing two interceptions. However, he is set to face the Washington Commanders' weak pass defense, ranked 29th in total yards. In Week 1, the Commanders surrendered the most passing touchdowns and second-most fantasy points to quarterbacks. With the addition of rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers, Jones has the potential for success against Washington's struggling defense. Furthermore, his ability to contribute as a rusher adds value to his fantasy appeal.
Justice Hill, playing as the Baltimore Ravens' third ball-carrier behind Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson, is the team's primary option in passing situations. In the season opener, Hill showcased his skills by finishing third on the team in targets, catching six passes for 52 yards. With Keaton Mitchell recovering from a torn ACL, Hill is likely to see an increased role as the change-of-pace tailback. As the Ravens may establish a comfortable lead against the Las Vegas Raiders, Hill could benefit from additional carries against a run defense that allowed 176 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. With the potential to be targeted frequently in the passing game, Hill presents an intriguing fantasy option.
Emanuel Wilson finds himself in a prominent role as the Green Bay Packers' No. 2 running back due to injuries to key players. While the Packers may adopt a run-heavy approach with Josh Jacobs leading the backfield, Wilson can still contribute. In his three career starts, the 25-year-old has struggled with interceptions but will likely benefit from a favorable matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, who gave up the most rushing yards in Week 1. As rookie Marshawn Lloyd is still recovering, Wilson provides an immediate impact for the Packers' offense.
Allen Lazard's connection with Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was reignited in the season opener, as Lazard led the team with 89 receiving yards and two touchdowns. After a disappointing 2023 season with the New York Jets, Lazard has the opportunity for a bounce-back year alongside a healthy Rodgers. Until the Jets increase the workload of wide receiver Mike Williams, Lazard is considered the team's No. 2 option in the passing game. Facing Washington's vulnerable pass defense, Lazard could see an uptick in targets and present a sleeper option for fantasy managers.
In a surprising twist, the New York Giants' duo of Daniel Jones and Wan'Dale Robinson could be an unexpected fantasy-scoring tandem. Jones, facing Washington's 29th-ranked pass defense, has a favorable matchup. Robinson, the Giants' primary slot receiver, received a team-leading 12 targets in Week 1. While he may not accumulate many receiving yards due to his role in the offense, Robinson's double-digit target volume makes him a viable option in PPR leagues.
With Puka Nacua landing on injured reserve, the Los Angeles Rams are in need of additional pass-catchers beyond Cooper Kupp. Colby Parkinson emerges as a promising option, as he tied for fourth in targets among tight ends in Week 1. With Tyler Higbee on the physically unable to perform list, Parkinson is expected to see increased opportunities in the passing game. While he had limited production with the Seattle Seahawks, the Rams' need for reliable targets should lead to improved output for Parkinson.
Overall, as Week 2 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy managers may find hidden gems among these sleeper options. While their matchups and roles within their respective offenses may vary, the potential for breakout performances looms large for these players.