Fantasy Play: Players start and play for NFL Week 9

We’re halfway through the fantasy football season and the hits continue to roll in to starting lineups.

However, these starts are there to keep you steady during what could be a tumultuous week of fantasy. I also brought in some key players to fade in for good measure.

Quarterbacks

Start: Sam Darnold, Vikings vs. Colts

Darnold had a relatively quiet Week 8, throwing two early TDs before effectively shutting down the rest of the game. The matchup this week isn’t tough though, the Colts are just outside the top 10 QB matchups of the week, and Darnold could also get a boost in the form of TJ Hockenson. The superstar tight end is rehabbing a torn ACL and MCL. He could see action if he returns, but Hockenson’s presence could be a boon to the offense.

Other locks:

—Matthew Stafford at Seahawks

—Jayden Daniels at Giants

—Jalen Hurts vs. Jaguars

—Baker Mayfield at Chiefs

Avoid: CJ Stroud, Texans at Jets

Stroud has had a rough few weeks without its No. 1 receiver, Nico Collins, and things are likely to get increasingly tough this week as Stefon Diggs will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL. Add to that the fact that the Texans will be going up against the stingy Jets secondary, and you have a recipe for a shaky fantasy day.

Running backs

Start: Chase Brown, Bengals vs. Raiders

Brown has worked his way into the 1A running back role for the Bengals, working his way past Zack Moss. Brown didn’t find much space against the Eagles in Week 8, but he did find the end zone for the second time in three games. The Raiders are a top-10 matchup for RBs, so Brown has that going for him this week, in addition to his robust role in the passing game. He is averaging three goals per game and could see even more this week if Tee Higgins (quad) is out again.

Other locks:

—D’André Swift at Cardinals

—Kareem Hunt vs. Buccaneers

—De’Von Achane at Bills

—Bijan Robinson vs. Cowboys

Avoid: Austin Ekeler, Giants commanders

Ekeler just doesn’t have the ceiling he once had as a lead back for the Chargers. Now, in a secondary role to Brian Robinson Jr., Ekeler rarely sees double-digit goals and has scored just once this season. This week’s game against the Giants is only mediocre, but why use your flex spot on someone whose presence brings no tangible benefit?

Wide receivers

Start: Tank Dell, Texans at Jets

Yes, I’ve emphasized avoiding CJ Stroud if possible this week, but Dell could be the bright spot for the Texans as the only starting receiver would suit up this week. Dell has had an up-and-down season as the third option in the Texans’ passing attack, but this week will be his time to shine as the primary conduit through which Houston’s passing attack will run. The matchup with the Jets isn’t favorable, but Dell moves around the field and could find the secondary’s weak spots.

Other locks:

—Jakobi Meyers at Bengals

—DeVonta Smith at Jaguars

—Puka Nacua at Seahawks

—Chris Olave at Panthers

Avoid: DJ Moore, Bears at Cardinals

Moore has had perhaps the worst season of his career from a fantasy perspective thus far, posting double-digit fantasy points in PPR formats just once this season. These are the breaks when you’re playing alongside three other capable pass-catching options, four if you count D’Andre Swift. The Bears’ offense is shaky in Week 9, and Moore is just one of many options there.

Tight ends

Start: Sam LaPorta, Lions at Packers

LaPorta has been a questionable option for weeks this season, but things have been looking up for him since Jameson Williams was suspended for two games. Last week, LaPorta caught all six targets for 48 yards and a score, his best mark this season, and he’s ready to produce again this week. His opponent, Green Bay, is a top-10 matchup for opposing TEs, and LaPorta will be a primary red zone option in what could be a high-scoring game.

Other locks:

—Cade Oton at Chiefs

—Kyle Pitts vs. Cowboys

—Zach Ertz at Giants

—Mark Andrews vs. Broncos

Avoid: Hunter Henry, Patriots at Titans

Henry has thrived with the introduction of Drake Maye to the Patriots’ starting offense, catching at least five passes, going for 90 yards and a touchdown in his past three games. However, Maye is in concussion protocol this week, meaning New England could be forced to start Jacoby Brissett this week against the Titans. Henry only had one game with more than two catches before Maye’s turn as starter. The Titans also rank in the bottom five of opposing TEs, so Henry will have his work cut out for him regardless.