With all 32 teams in action last week, setting your fantasy lineup was likely a breeze. But this week, the landscape changes dramatically as the 49ers and Steelers are on bye. This means key players like Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and George Pickens are unavailable, leaving many fantasy managers scrambling to fill those gaps. Are you ready to get creative with your lineup?
Flex Decisions: The Toughest Choices in Fantasy Football
The hardest place to make lineup decisions often lies in the Flex position. Unlike other spots, where standout talents are clear, the Flex can feel like a guessing game. How do you choose between players who are all vying for your attention? The best strategy is to evaluate the opportunity within an offense and analyze the matchups. This approach will help you make informed decisions that could pay off big time.
Week 9 Flex Candidates: Players to Consider
After diving into the rankings, we’ve pinpointed five players who deserve a spot in your Flex this week. If you’ve been wavering about any of these options, now’s the time to make your move and get them into your lineup.
Brian Robinson Jr., Washington Commanders
Brian Robinson Jr. might stretch the definition of a Flex candidate, especially after three consecutive games as the RB20 or worse. But don’t let that deter you—this week, he has a golden opportunity to shine. The Giants’ defensive line has been formidable, with three players boasting at least five sacks. However, when it comes to stopping the run, they’re struggling.
The Giants are allowing a staggering 5.4 yards per rush, the worst in the NFL. Additionally, 17.7 percent of rushes against them have gained at least 10 yards, which also ranks last in the league. Four different running backs have rushed for at least 90 yards against the Giants this season, including Robinson himself in Week 2. So, don’t hesitate to start him this week—he’s primed for a breakout performance.
Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts
With Anthony Richardson benched and Joe Flacco taking the reins, it’s time to plug Josh Downs into your fantasy lineup. Regardless of your feelings about Richardson’s benching, this change is a boon for the Colts’ receivers. Downs has been making waves, establishing himself as a key target in the offense.
Since returning in Week 3, Downs has only been out-targeted by Michael Pittman Jr. once. He leads the team with an impressive 0.30 targets per route run among receivers with at least 100 routes this season. Plus, the Colts are up against a Minnesota defense that surrenders the most fantasy points per game to opposing receivers. This matchup, combined with Flacco’s experience, makes Downs an easy choice for your lineup.
Jakobi Meyers, WR, Las Vegas Raiders
While Brock Bowers has garnered attention as a beneficiary of the Davante Adams trade, Jakobi Meyers has quietly stepped up as the clear No. 1 receiver in Las Vegas. This week presents a prime opportunity for Meyers to shine. Since Adams’ departure, Meyers has consistently maintained a 20-percent target share, with a 27 percent target rate on his routes. He’s averaging a solid 13.4 PPG in this stretch.
The Bengals’ defense has struggled to generate pressure and has been vulnerable to big plays through the air. In fact, an opposing receiver has scored at least 18 fantasy points against the Bengals in six games this season. Don’t be surprised if Meyers becomes the seventh name on that list this week.
Bucky Irving, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a crowded backfield, featuring Rachaad White, Bucky Irving, and Sean Tucker. With Chris Godwin and Mike Evans sidelined, many assumed the offense wouldn’t support fantasy production from a running back in a committee. However, that assumption has proven incorrect.
In their first game without Godwin or Evans, the Tampa RBs accounted for 28 percent of Baker Mayfield’s targets. Last week, Irving and White combined for 13 targets, their highest total of the year. While this level of receiving usage may not be sustainable, it’s a trend to watch while Evans remains out. Expect the Buccaneers to lean on the passing game against the Chiefs, and if Irving can snag a few targets and make a big play, he could deliver a Flex-worthy performance.
Ladd McConkey, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
For those who drafted Ladd McConkey, the hope was he would quickly become the WR1 for the Chargers. And he has! Leading the team in targets in four of seven games this season, McConkey has established himself as a key player in the offense.
What’s particularly exciting for McConkey’s prospects in Week 9 is the shift in the Chargers’ offensive philosophy. Initially, they were one of the most run-heavy teams in the league, but recent games have seen Justin Herbert attempting at least 30 passes. This change opens the door for McConkey to continue his ascent as a weekly Flex option.
As you navigate your lineup decisions this week, remember that opportunity and matchups are crucial. With the right choices, you can maximize your fantasy points and keep your team competitive. So, are you ready to make those tough calls and seize the moment? Your fantasy championship aspirations depend on it!
