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Welcome back to the Rookie Report! We’ve made it past the halfway point of the regular season. By now you should have a pretty good idea of where your team stands. Are you a contender? Or are you just hoping to squeak into the playoffs and hope for the best? This is the time of year when unlikely players start to make waves due to injuries and attrition, and a lot of the time those unlikely fantasy heroes are rookies. The Carlos Hyde trade has put another rookie on the map as Nick Chubb becomes the every-week starter in Cleveland. Peyton Barber’s injury may have opened up more playing time for Ronald Jones II. Ted Ginn’s trip to IR could pave the way for Tre’Quan Smith to be a stud down the stretch. I’m sure there will be others as well. Let’s take a look at what to expect from the rookie crop in week 8…

Rookies to Start:

RB Saquon Barkley, NYG (Wk. 8: vs. Was.): Of course you’re going to start Barkley in all season-long formats this week. He’s been the number 2 fantasy RB this season (all scoring and rankings referenced are in PPR format), but this may not be the best week to fire him up in DFS tournaments. Saquon did finish as the RB5 in his first game without 100 scrimmage yards, but Washington has allowed the 10^th fewest RB points per game this year and ranks 4^th in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA stat on throws to opposing backs. While Saquon is capable of overcoming a less than tempting matchup, he’s not the chalk DFS play this week.

RB Kerryon Johnson, DET (Wk. 8: vs. Sea.): Kerryon put on a show last Sunday in Miami, but until Matt Patricia and the Lions realize that LeGarrette Blount shouldn’t be getting 10 carries per game, Johnson will remain a boom-or-bust RB2 option each week. After the monster rushing game Kerryon posted in week 7, I’m optimistic Detroit will start to unleash him a bit more. He does get a decent matchup against a middling Seattle run defense. The Seahawks rank 15^th at limiting opposing RB points on a per game basis, and rank 12^th in run defense DVOA. It would be hard to sit him after what he did last weekend even if it is a bit of point chasing.

RB Phillip Lindsay, DEN (Wk. 8: @KC): Lindsay could be poised for a big game if teammate and fellow rookie Royce Freeman is unable to suit up this week, which seems a likely scenario. The Chiefs allow the 2^nd-most RB points per game and rank dead last in run defense DVOA. Even if Freeman plays, the game script will likely be to Lindsay’s advantage with Kansas City a 10-point favorite. I like Lindsay as a solid RB2 this week, and he has legit RB1 upside if Freeman’s high-ankle sprain keeps him sidelined.

Borderline Rookies:

QB Baker Mayfield, CLE (Wk. 8: @Pit.): The Steelers have been playing better pass defense of late, but they still rank just 20^th in pass defense DVOA on the season. Mayfield has been a bit turnover prone since taking the starting gig, but he’s still finished as the QB15, QB21 and QB6 in the past 3 weeks. He’ll be a borderline QB2 in super-flex and 2 quarterback leagues once again in this one.

RB Nick Chubb, CLE (Wk. 8: @Pit.): Chubb’s increased role should make him a sure-fire starter in most formats, but the matchup this week is a tough one. The Steelers allow the 2^nd-fewest RB fantasy points per game, and the Steelers are a touchdown favorite. If game-script keeps the Browns throwing, it’ll be Duke Johnson who benefits most in the Cleveland backfield. The Steelers are the only team in the league that hasn’t allowed an opposing backfield to get to 20 PPR points in a game all year.

RB Royce Freeman, DEN (Wk. 8: @KC): As mentioned above with Phillip Lindsay, Freeman is nursing an ankle injury that may sideline him in a prime matchup. If he’s able to play, he’ll be an intriguing flex option against the team that ranks 32^nd in run defense DVOA, but game script won’t play in his favor with Denver a heavy underdog. Keep a close eye on the injury updates Sunday to confirm he’s active if you’re considering starting Royce.

WR Christian Kirk, ARI (Wk. 8: vs. SF): Kirk remains a decent flex option for deeper leagues this week. He’s averaging 4.6 catches and 66.4 receiving yards per game in his past 5, and he posted 3-85-1 in the first meeting with San Francisco. He’s clearly Josh Rosen’s favorite target in the passing game, and the 49ers rank 23^rd in pass defense DVOA.

Rookies to Sit:

QB Josh Rosen, ARI (Wk. 8: vs. SF): Rosen is one of just 2 quarterbacks all year to finish lower than QB13 when facing the 49ers. The matchup is good, and I’m confident Rosen will eventually get things together, but you just can’t bank on a productive game from Rosen in any matchup. He’s no more than a QB2 in a league where you have no other options.

QB Sam Darnold, NYJ (Wk. 9: @Chi.): Darnold hasn’t shown enough upside consistently to be trusted in any format this week. You could roll the dice in a 2-QB league, but Darnold and the Jets average the 6^th-fewest passing yards and the 4^th-lowest QB rating in the league. The Bears’ defense has been one of the league’s best. Chicago ranks 5^th in pass defense DVOA and have are in the top-10 in the league at limiting QB rating.

RB Sony Michel, NE (Wk. 8: @Buf.): This would be a great spot to use Michel if he were fully healthy. The Patriots are a 2-touchdown favorite and the Bills are allowing the 9^th-most RB points per game. Sony seems to have avoided any sort of serious damage despite his injury looking bad when it happened, but I’d still be surprised if he were able to play this week. Even if he does, I’d expect his work to be limited since the Pats probably won’t need him to get a win this week. Michel will play a big role down the stretch, and I don’t think New England wants to risk his health in a game they should win easily.

RBs Nyheim Hines & Jordan Wilkins, IND (Wk. 8: @Oak.): With Marlon Mack storming onto the scene over the last two weeks, Hines and Wilkins have taken a back seat. They did see some work late in a blowout win over Jacksonville last week, but Mack appears to be the clear lead back for now. Hines does have some upside in deep PPR leagues, but his pass-catching role has been diminished lately. He averaged nearly 6 catches per game in the first 5 weeks, and has just 3 total receptions in the past 2.

RB Ronald Jones II, TB (Wk. 8: @Cin.): Even if Barber does sit the week out, the Buccaneers have struggled mightily to run the ball, and RoJo likely will have to contend with Jacquizz Rodgers for 3^rd-down work. Jones has averaged fewer than 3 yards per carry for the season, and Barber wasn’t much better with less than 3.5 per carry.

WR DJ Moore, CAR (Wk. 8: vs. Bal.): Moore is still just a secondary option for the Panthers’ offense, and Baltimore has allowed the 3^rd-fewest WR points per game. DJ has been more involved lately, but this isn’t the best week to roll the dice on a spike in production.

WRs Marquez Valdes-Scantling & Equanimeous St. Brown, GB (Wk. 8: @LAR): With Randall Cobb and Geronimo Allison both on track to play this week, the pair of rookie receivers should be relegated to backup duty once again. Valdes-Scantling does have WR3 upside this week if either Cobb or Allison sits again.

WR DJ Chark, JAX (Wk. 8: vs. Phi.): Chark got a bit more run last Sunday than we’ve seen from him this year, but that came in a blowout loss to the Colts. It also likely helped Chark that the team turned to fellow second-stringer Cody Kessler at QB during the game. The Eagles are a vulnerable pass defense, but I’d still expect Chark to go back to his normal bench role. DJ is a shoot the moon DFS tournament play at best.

TE Dallas Goedert, PHI (Wk. 8: @Jax.): Goedert had a strong showing in week 6 with a 4-43-1 line, but I wouldn’t expect a repeat performance with the Jaguars allowing the 2^nd-fewest TE points per game. With Ertz at the top of the target pecking order, there won’t be enough to go around for Goedert in this one.

TE Mike Gesicki, MIA (Wk. 8: @Hou.): Gesicki had a reasonable performance in week 6 with a 3-44 line. He out-produced Nick O’Leary in the game, but played just 16 offensive snaps compared to 39 for O’Leary. Until that changes Gesicki remains an un-startable option.

TEs Hayden Hurst & Mark Andrews, BAL (Wk. 8: @Car.): The Ravens’ tight end group has proven to be a muddled mess all season. No TE played even 50% of the week 7 snaps for Baltimore. Andrews played just 38%, and Hurst played an even more paltry 26%. Those aren’t useful snap counts.

Rookies on Byes: RB Ito Smith, ATL, WR Calvin Ridley, ATL, WR Michael Gallup, DAL

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

WR Tre’Quan Smith, NO (Wk. 8: @Min.): I’d have a lot more faith in Smith this week if he had a better matchup. The Vikings have allowed the 5^th-fewest WR points per game, which is incredible considering they gave up an astounding 83.9 to the Rams’ receivers. Smith has established himself as the Saints’ WR2 with Ted Ginn on IR, and that’s a fantasy role with lots of upside as long as Drew Brees is under center. He didn’t post a huge game last weekend, but his 6 targets were 6 more than Cam Meredith saw. At the very least, Tre’Quan should be rostered in all formats.

WR Anthony Miller, CHI (Wk. 8: vs. NYJ): Miller was targeted 7 times in his 2^nd game back from a shoulder injury, and the Jets allow the 5^th-most WR points per game. I don’t expect Trubisky to throw 50 times again this week, so Miller is more of a DFS dart throw than a season-long option, but the fact that he got more opportunity than Taylor Gabriel last Sunday is a promising sign.

WRs Antonio Callaway & Damion Ratley, CLE (Wk. 8: @Pit.): The Steelers are a touchdown favorite, and are allowing the 6^th-most WR points per game. Jarvis Landry isn’t going to score all the fantasy points from this group, which means one of this duo should have a better than expected day. Callaway has been playing more snaps and getting more opportunity, but Ratley has been more efficient with his opportunities. Callaway’s blazing speed gives him the higher level of upside.

WR Courtland Sutton, DEN (Wk. 8: @KC): This is a decent opportunity for Sutton to be an intriguing DFS dart throw. Denver will be throwing, and Sutton has been playing nearly as much as Demaryius Thomas lately. The Chiefs are allowing the 13^th-most WR points per game. Sutton is hard to trust in season-long leagues, but you can pick your spots to try him in DFS, and this is one of those spots where he’s worth considering.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps you with some of your tougher lineup decisions that involve rookies as we get deeper into these pivotal weeks. Keep an eye on the injury report to see what happens with Peyton Barber, Sony Michel and Royce Freeman, and anyone else on your teams that is nicked up right now. Feel free to hit me up on twitter if you have any questions or want to harass me about any of the info above (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome back to the Rookie Report! Here’s hoping the first 6 weeks of the season have treated you better than they have Devonta Freeman, Marcus Mariota, and the entire Arizona Cardinals team. Week 6 saw a couple of promising rookies come back to earth a bit as Nyheim Hines, Calvin Ridley, and Keke Coutee all saw dips in production, and both receivers suffered injuries as well. Both are likely to play this week, but it’s a setback nonetheless. We’re getting closer to the part of the season where unexpected rookies start to take on bigger roles. We’re also getting into the serious bye weeks with some high-powered offenses taking week 7 off – Green Bay, Pittsburgh and Seattle. Are there rookies who can help you fill in? Is this the week we finally start to see something from Nick Chubb, Mike Gesicki, or Ronald Jones? Let’s dive into week 7 and discuss…

Rookies to Start:

RB Saquon Barkley, NYG (Wk. 7: @Atl.): Of course Barkley is an every-week starter at this point as the number 3 fantasy running back on the year (all ranks and point totals are in PPR scoring), but he should be worth his lofty price tag in DFS lineups this Sunday. The Falcons have allowed the most RB catches on the year, and the 2^nd-most RB receiving yards. They also allow the 3^rd-most fantasy points to the position. This is probably the best matchup Barkley will get all season.

RB Sony Michel, NE (Wk. 7: @Chi.): The matchup is a tough one for Michel this week. The Bears rank 4^th in Football Outsiders’ run defense DVOA stat, and allow the 2^nd-fewest RB points per game, but Sony and the Pats are on too much of a roll to hide from a tough matchup. Sony has averaged 105 rushing yards per game and found the end zone 4 times in the last 3 weeks. Even if he doesn’t match that kind of output this week, he should be a solid RB2 in week 7.

RB Phillip Lindsay, DEN (Wk. 7: @Ari.): Arizona has been gouged by opposing backs, allowing the 2^nd-most points to the position per game. Lindsay’s receiving floor makes him the safer and more attractive play between he and fellow rookie Royce Freeman. There is upside there for both guys this week, but I’d lean Lindsay if you have both. With the number of byes this week, you’d have a hard time convincing me Lindsay isn’t a top-20 RB play this week.

Borderline Rookies:

QB Baker Mayfield, CLE (Wk. 7: @TB): The Bucs haven’t met a QB that they could hold under 330 passing yards yet, and only one that they’ve held below 3 passing scores. They’ve allowed more QB fantasy points per game than any other team and rank dead last in pass defense DVOA. Mayfield has been less efficient than I’d like and has turned the ball over a bunch, but this matchup gives him big upside. I dare you not to start him in a 2-QB league this week.

RB Kerryon Johnson, DET (Wk. 7: @Mia.): This is about as good a matchup as Kerryon has had all year. I’d be listing him as a back to start if I had any faith that the Lions would commit to getting him the ball. The Dolphins allow the 5^th-most RB points per game, and the Lions should be in a positive game script as a 3-point road favorite. Miami is vulnerable to receiving backs, so Theo Riddick could be in line for a nice flex-worthy game as well, but Kerryon should be right on the cusp of an RB2 this week assuming the touches are there.

RB Royce Freeman, DEN (Wk. 7: @Ari.): As I mentioned with Phillip Lindsay, the Cardinals are bad at defending running backs. The Cardinals have allowed 8 rushing scores on the year and have coughed up 140+ rushing yards to the position in 3 straight weeks. While I like Lindsay a little better this week due to his receiving floor, Freeman has enough upside to be a solid flex play this week.

WR Christian Kirk, ARI (Wk. 7: vs. Den.): Kirk is quickly building a rapport with fellow rookie Josh Rosen, but he gets a reasonably tough matchup this week. There’s a low floor for everyone in this passing game, but Kirk has caught for 77+ yards in 3 of the last 4 weeks. That’s at least flex-worthy in a week with some top talent on byes.

WR Calvin Ridley, ATL (Wk. 7: vs. NYG): Ridley’s game was cut short last week due to an injury. The TDs have dried up a little bit over the last couple games, but that upside that we’ve seen keeps him in the flex/WR3 discussion this week. Only Jacksonville allows fewer WR points per game than the Giants, but this game has the 2^nd-highest over/under of the week.

Rookies to Sit:

QB Josh Rosen, ARI (Wk. 7: vs. Den.): Only 2 quarterbacks have thrown for multiple TDs against this Broncos’ defense on the year, and Denver ranks 8^th in the league in pass defense DVOA. Rosen is averaging just 10.2 fantasy points per game through 3 starts. This isn’t a good week to count on that improving.

RB Nick Chubb, CLE (Wk. 7: @TB): You know the deal here. He just isn’t getting enough opportunity to be useful. He carried just 3 times last week.

RB Ronald Jones, TB (Wk. 7: vs. Cle.): Jones is finally starting to see a little bit of playing time and gets a favorable matchup this week, but played just 12 snaps total and saw 4 touches last week. He’s not ready for primetime just yet.

WR Courtland Sutton, DEN (Wk. 7: @Ari.): If Patrick Peterson would just follow Emmanuel Sanders into the slot, there might be some legit opportunity for Sutton this week. Instead, Peterson will likely be blanketing Demaryius Thomas while the Cards let Sanders have his way in the slot. Sutton remains just a DFS dart throw.

WR Keke Coutee, HOU (Wk. 7: @Jax.): Coutee is working through a hamstring injury, which saps his biggest asset – his speed. Deshaun Watson is also a bit banged up and they face a Jaguars’ defense that allows the fewest points in the league to opposing WRs. I’d expect a performance closer to last week from Coutee (3-33) rather than the 17 catches he put up the 2 weeks before.

WR Anthony Miller, CHI (Wk. 7: vs. NE): The Bears’ passing attack has broken out a bit over the past couple weeks, but Miller is yet to top 35 yards or 5 targets in a game. He’s no more than a DFS tournament punt play for the time being.

TE Dallas Goedert, PHI (Wk. 7: vs. Car.): Goedert gets a decent matchup this week, but as I’ve noted in this column in previous weeks, his role is nearly non-existent with Alshon Jeffery back. Two targets a week isn’t going to result in usable stat lines.

TEs Mark Andrews & Hayden Hurst, BAL (Wk. 7: vs. NO): The tight end position is heavily utilized in the Ravens’ offense, but there are too many guys involved to trust any of them. Andrews seems to have the most receiving upside of the quartet, but he and Hurst each played 20 snaps or less last weekend. Until someone really separates himself, there isn’t much use for these guys.

TE Mike Gesicki, MIA (Wk. 7: vs. Det.): Gesicki has seemingly been passed on the depth chart by Nick O’Leary. Yikes.

Rookies on Byes: RB Rashaad Penny, SEA, WRs Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Equanimeous St. Brown, GB, WR James Washington, PIT

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

QB Sam Darnold, NYJ (Wk. 7: vs. Min.): Darnold has actually been a top-15 QB in each of the past 2 weeks, and the Vikings have quietly been struggling to defend the pass. Minnesota ranks just 25^th in pass defense DVOA, and has allowed the 8^th-most QB points per game. You could do worse than Darnold as a QB2 this week or as a cheap DFS tournament option at QB in a week with no Big Ben, Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers.

RB Ito Smith, ATL (Wk. 7: vs. NYG): Devonta Freeman was placed on IR this week, and Ito actually out-touched Tevin Coleman last week. The Giants rank just 22^nd in run defense DVOA, and Atlanta is a 5.5-point favorite this week. I like Ito as a flex play in deep leagues where you’re looking for a replacement option. He’s found the end zone in 3 straight. That streak will eventually end, but he’s got nice upside for week 7.

RB Nyheim Hines, IND (Wk. 7: vs. Buf.): Hines’s snap count saw a pretty big dip with Marlon Mack back in the lineup last weekend, but he still played more snaps than the aforementioned Mack. The Bills have been solid at defending RBs, but they rank 22^nd in pass defense DVOA on throws to opposing backs. Hines is the best receiving RB on the team. He might see his production bounce back a bit this week in PPR leagues.

WR DJ Moore, CAR (Wk. 7: @Phi.): Moore has now seen solid production in back-to-back weeks (minus the 2 fumbles last week). He’s posted 4-49 with an 18-yard run, and 4-59 with an 18-yard run in the past 2 contests. The Eagles allow the 7^th-most WR points per game. Moore hasn’t been consistent enough this year to warrant more than a flex play in the deepest of leagues or in DFS tournaments, but if he continues to progress you’ll be using him in normal 12-team leagues before you know it.

WR Antonio Callaway, CLE (Wk. 7: @TB): Callaway saw his snaps and targets return last week, but still without the production. He turned 72 offensive snaps and 10 targets into just 2 catches for 9 yards. If he’s ever going to get it going now is the time. The Bucs allow the 2^nd-most WR points per game and rank dead last in pass defense DVOA. He’s no more than a cheap DFS tournament play, but this could be the week where he finally puts something together.

WR Tre’Quan Smith, NO (Wk. 7: @Bal.): Smith’s Monday night outburst before the team’s bye may have seemed like a one-time fluke, but it looks like Ted Ginn may be out again this week. He isn’t practicing as of Wednesday. Smith played about two-thirds of the offensive snaps with Ginn sidelined in week 5. If that repeats itself here, Tre’Quan is an intriguing DFS tournament play against a Ravens’ defense that has hardly been a shutdown unit against competent passing attacks.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps you with some of your tougher rookie lineup decisions this week. Keep an eye on the injury report this week. There are plenty of rookies dealing with their own injuries, and a few others who could be impacted by injuries to teammates like Tre’Quan and Ito Smith. Feel free to hit me up on twitter if you have any specific questions or want to yell at me about anything written above (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome back to the Rookie Report! We’re 5 weeks in to the season now, so you should have a pretty good idea what your team’s strengths and weaknesses are…but things aren’t always so clear with the rookie class at this point. There are almost certainly some rookies that have been non-factors so far that will make a difference before season’s end. Ronald Jones, Nick Chubb, Rashaad Penny, James Washington, and Anthony Miller haven’t had much of an impact so far, but it doesn’t mean they won’t before season’s end. With that in mind, most of this week’s sleepers are guys that are likely better as stashes for later in the year than players you should be using this week. That doesn’t mean there aren’t any usable rookies this week. Quite the contrary. Let’s dive in and see what to expect in week 6…

Rookies to Start:

RB Saquon Barkley, NYG (Wk. 6: vs. Phi.): Barkley remains an every week starter, even in tougher matchups like this one. The Eagles have allowed the 3^rd-fewest RB fantasy points per game (all scoring and ranks are in PPR format), but Barkley has tallied at least 16 touches and 100 scrimmage yards every week, and has found the end zone in 4 of 5 games.

RB Sony Michel, NE (Wk. 6: vs. KC): The Chiefs rank 32^nd in Football Outsiders’ run defense DVOA stat and have allowed the 2^nd-most RB fantasy points per game, including over 140 rushing yards allowed in 2 of the past 3 games. Michel owns the early down work in New England with Burkhead on IR, and he’s safely a top-15 option this week.

WR Calvin Ridley, ATL (Wk. 6: vs. TB): There is some risk here after Ridley posted just 4-38 on 5 targets last week, but Tampa’s pass defense is miserable (ranks dead last in pass defense DVOA) and Ridley has scored more than half of Atlanta’s receiving TDs this season. If you don’t have 3 studs to start over him, you can’t keep Ridley’s upside benched this week.

Borderline Rookies:

RB Phillip Lindsay, DEN (Wk. 6 vs. LAR): Lindsay’s usage makes him the safer weekly play of he and Royce Freeman, and game script this week should certainly favor him with the Rams favored by 7 on the road in this one. Freeman has had very little impact as a receiver, and Lindsay’s use as a pass-catcher makes him a reasonable flex play in all formats this week.

RB Nyheim Hines, IND (Wk. 6: @NYJ): Hines remains a PPR flex option this week. He’s been averaging 7 catches a game in his past 3 contests, and his receiving floor should be safe even if Marlon Mack manages to return this week. His explosive speed makes him a constant threat to break a bit play, even if we haven’t seen that big play on the field yet.

WR Keke Coutee, HOU (Wk. 6: vs. Buf.): Will Fuller’s health has been a big factor in Coutee’s breakout over the past 2 weeks, but I like the chances that Coutee continues to impress even if Fuller is closer to full strength. The Bills have been very strong defending perimeter receivers, but they rank just 25^th in pass defense DVOA on passes thrown to WRs that aren’t the #1 or 2 guy on their team. Tre’Davious White should be shadowing DeAndre Hopkins, and Coutee should be a great outlet for Deshaun Watson this week. He’s a little riskier this week than he’s been in the past 2, but I like him as a PPR flex play.

WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, GB (Wk. 6: vs. SF): There’s always value in being a starting WR playing with Aaron Rodgers. Randall Cobb is almost certain to sit again this week, and there’s no guarantee that Geronimo Allison returns either. That means Valdes-Scantling has a chance to be the team’s WR2 again this week. That’s a role that earned him a 97% snap share last weekend, and he’ll be a viable WR3 in all formats again this week if G-Mo is out again.

Rookies to Sit:

QB Sam Darnold, NYJ (Wk. 6: vs. Ind.): This is a matchup that looks more inviting on paper than it really is. The Colts have given up the 5^th-most passing yards per game, but they haven’t been beaten deep, and Darnold has thrived on the long ball. Of his 8 touchdown throws, 3 of them went for 40+ yards, and 4 of the other 5 went for 20+. The Colts are one of just 2 teams that have given up zero passes that went 40 yards. Indy can be thrown on, but this doesn’t project to be a ceiling game for Darnold. He’s no more than a low-end QB2 this week.

QB Josh Rosen, ARI (Wk. 6: @Min.): The Vikings’ pass defense hasn’t lived up to their reputation in the first 5 weeks, allowing the 6^th-most QB fantasy points per game and ranking 26^th in pass defense DVOA, but Rosen failed to come through in a similarly inviting spot a week ago. The Vikings talent is better than the numbers would suggest, and Rosen could be in for a long day with Larry Fitzgerald ailing.

QB Josh Allen, BUF (Wk. 6: @Hou.): There isn’t enough upside to roll the dice on Allen in DFS tournaments, and his floor is too low to feel great about using him in season-long leagues of any format. He remains a boom-or-bust QB2 if you’re desperate.

RB Royce Freeman, DEN (Wk. 6: vs. LAR): Freeman saw as little work as he has all year in week 5 after head coach Vance Joseph claimed they were going to get him more involved. The Rams haven’t been shutting down the run game, ranking just 28^th in run defense DVOA, but game script could really work against Freeman here with LA a touchdown favorite. I’d be hesitant to play Freeman if I had other strong options. He’s a contrarian play in DFS tournaments. It’s within the range of outcomes that Denver leans on Freeman and the run game to keep the ball away from the Rams’ offense and has success, but it’s not the most likely outcome.

RB Nick Chubb, CLE (Wk. 6: vs. LAC): Sorry if you have Chubb shares, but like him you get to keep waiting for Hue Jackson to get a clue or for something to happen to Carlos Hyde. Chubb hasn’t seen more than 3 carries in any game, and the Chargers have allowed fewer than 55 rushing yards to opposing RBs in 3 of their 5 games. There’s no reason to bank on this being the week when Chubb sees increased opportunity.

RB Jordan Wilkins, IND (Wk. 6: @NYJ): Marlon Mack is practicing in full this week, and if he plays it’s Wilkins who will lose the most work of the two Colts’ rookies. Wilkins’ role has already been shrinking and he’s yet to reach 10 fantasy points in any game this year.

WR Antonio Callaway, CLE (Wk. 6: vs. LAC): The Chargers are not great against wide receivers – they allow the 7^th-most points per game to the position, but Callaway has been unable to get out of his own way. He’s struggled with drops and mental mistakes, and he’s seen his targets scaled back as Hue Jackson promised. He saw just 5 targets in week 5 after drawing 10+ in each of the previous 2 contests. I’m not sure you can bank on more than 5 targets this week, and Callaway has been inefficient with the targets he’s seen.

WR Courtland Sutton, DEN (Wk. 6: vs. LAR): The Rams have allowed 8 touchdowns to wide receivers in the past 3 weeks, but they’ve also allowed fewer than 10 catches to the position in 4 out of 5 games. Sutton is still 3^rd banana in the Broncos’ passing game, and that makes him just a TD dart throw this week.

WR Anthony Miller, CHI (Wk. 6: @Mia.): There’s a decent chance that Miller returns from his shoulder injury this week, but he will likely be limited and Taylor Gabriel really emerged in his absence. The Dolphins allow just the 6^th-fewest WR points per game, so even if Miller gets a decent snap share, the chances he produces are slim.

WR DJ Chark, JAX (Wk. 6: @Dal.): Chark had his best game as a pro last weekend, but that’ll happen when your QB throws the ball 61 times in comeback mode. The Jaguars are a 3-point road favorite this week, so it’s unlikely that the game script repeats itself. Chark will likely go back to being a spectator this weekend.

WR Michael Gallup, DAL (Wk. 6: vs. Jax.): Gallup has just 6 catches in 5 weeks, and faces a Jaguars’ defense that has lived up to its reputation – they’ve allowed the 2^nd-fewest points per game to wide receivers on the year. This isn’t a tough call to sit Gallup.

TE Dallas Goedert, PHI (Wk. 6: @NYG): The G-Men are allowing just the 3^rd-fewest tight end points per game, and the return of Alshon Jeffery has made Goedert a forgotten man in the Eagles’ passing attack.

TE Mike Gesicki, MIA (Wk. 6: vs. Chi.): The Bears have allowed a tight end score in 3 straight games, but Gesicki’s last red zone target came in week one, and he’s yet to hit paydirt all season long.

Rookies on Byes: RB Kerryon Johnson, DET, TE Hayden Hurst, BAL, TE Mark Andrews, BAL

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

QB Baker Mayfield, CLE (Wk. 6: @LAC): The turnovers from Mayfield over the past 2 weeks have been troubling, but he’s averaged over 300 yards per game in his 2 starts, and the 2 teams he faced have been less giving to QBs than the Chargers have been on the year. Los Angeles is allowing 284 passing yards per game and nearly 3 touchdowns per game. Mayfield is an intriguing play in DFS and a solid QB2 option.

RB Ito Smith, ATL (Wk. 6: vs. TB): It looks like Devonta Freeman is going back on the shelf this week, which means Ito is back in play as a cheap DFS option and flex option in the deepest of leagues. The Bucs allow the 6^th-most RB points per game, and this game has the highest over/under of the week. It’s always wise to target players in a shootout in DFS tournaments. Tevin Coleman will still be the main cog in the backfield, but Ito has shown that he can be productive as the number 2 guy.

RB Ronald Jones II, TB (Wk. 6: @Atl.): Peyton Barber has continued to be wildly inefficient, and Jones dressed for the first time in week 4 ahead of the bye week. It’s only a matter of time before the Bucs see what they have in the rookie. He’s worth a stash in deep leagues, and he might start to show what he can do as soon as this week. Atlanta allows the 3^rd-most RB points per game and ranks 31^st in run defense DVOA, and there isn’t much else to speak of in the Bucs backfield. Things could be lining up for a surprising day from Jones. He is at the very least a cheap punt option for DFS tournaments.

WR Christian Kirk, ARI (Wk. 6: @Min.): Kirk clearly has the best connection with Rosen of any Arizona wide receiver, and there should be plenty of garbage time in this game with the Vikings a double-digit favorite. Kirk will gain value as the year goes on and Rosen gains experience. He’s a player to target in DFS leagues if there are any impatient owners out there.

WR DJ Moore, CAR (Wk. 6: @Was.): Moore is close to being a stash in all formats. He was finally utilized a bit last week, and he showed why people have been itching to see more of him. Moore caught all 4 of his targets for 49 yards, and took one rushing attempt for 18. He’s not quite start-able yet, but it’s coming.

WR James Washington, PIT (Wk. 6: @Cin.): Most people are going to be off Washington this week after he put up a goose egg and played limited snaps last Sunday, but it was more the result on an unexpected blowout rather than his role being diminished. Washington is still more of a stash in deep leagues and dynasty formats, but it’s possible that we get the shootout here that the Falcons-Steelers game was supposed to be. The Bengals-Steelers game has the 3^rd-highest over/under of the week, and Washington should be more utilized than he was last Sunday. He’s only worth consideration in DFS tournaments as a punt option, but his talent will start to show through eventually.

WR Equanimeous St. Brown, GB (Wk. 6: vs. SF): St. Brown made a few plays last week and finished with 3 catches for 89 yards with Cobb and Allison both out. There’s a chance that we have the same situation again this week, and if that’s the case, ESB becomes a shoot the moon DFS tournament option. Valdes-Scantling is the higher percentage play this week, but St. Brown should be on the radar if Allison sits.

TE Ian Thomas, CAR (Wk. 6: @Was.): Thomas was quietly being more utilized over the past couple weeks and isn’t far from being a name to know in deeper dynasty leagues. It looks like Greg Olsen will be back this week, but Thomas has made huge strides this year after playing just 2 years of college ball. Olsen has had a hard time staying on the field in the last 2 years, and he may be rushing back from his current injury that will require surgery at some point. Thomas has seen 11 targets in the past 2 weeks, and that type of usage will become the norm again if something happens to Olsen. The production hasn’t been impressive so far, but it’ll come.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps with your tougher lineup decisions that involve rookies. Keep a close eye on the injury report this week, and don’t forget to double check and make sure your players are all active before kickoff. If you have any questions or want to yell at me about anything written above, feel free to hit me up on twitter and let me know (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome back to the Rookie Report! Week 4 was an exciting one, and one that went much more according to plan than week 3. Fitzmagic may have died for good, Corey Davis finally had the breakout game we’ve been waiting for, and Patrick Mahomes saw his legend grow after an incredible left-handed throw helped the Chiefs to a come from behind win on Monday night. It was an exciting week for some rookies as well. Keke Coutee burst onto the scene with a 100-yard day in his NFL debut, Nick Chubb found the end zone twice, and Sony Michel posted 100 rushing yards for the first time. It wasn’t as fruitful a day for the rookie QBs, as all 4 came away with L’s in week 4. Baker Mayfield turned the ball over 4 times, and he still probably played better than Josh Allen. The fun continues this week, so let’s take a look at what to expect in week 5…

Rookies to Start:

RB Saquon Barkley, NYG (Wk. 5: @Car.): Barkley has shown himself to be a locked-in RB1 every week regardless of opponent. He’s not an ideal DFS option this week facing a Carolina defense that has allowed the 10^th-fewest RB points per game (all scores and ranks are in PPR format), but you can’t sit him in season-long leagues. His usage gives him too much weekly upside to bench him.

RB Sony Michel, NE (Wk. 5: vs. Ind.): The Patriots are a 10-point favorite this week at home against the Colts, and the Rex Burkhead injury has clarified the team’s backfield roles. Michel has taken the reins of the early down work, and James White will serve as the 3^rd-down receiving back moving forward. That makes both backs extremely valuable moving forward. In week 4, Michel handled 25 carries despite playing just 33 offensive snaps. He’s the focal point of the run game, and the Pats should get to do a bunch of running again this week. Sony has a chance at a big game.

WR Calvin Ridley, ATL (Wk. 5: @Pit.): Regression is likely coming for Ridley, but with 6 TDs in his last 3 games, you have to ride the hot streak while it lasts. That’s especially true with the Falcons traveling to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers’ defense that is bleeding the 3^rd-most WR points per game to opponents. Keep rolling with Ridley for now. He may be here to stay.

Borderline Rookies:

QB Josh Rosen, ARI (Wk. 5: @SF): Rosen is an intriguing option in 2QB leagues this week facing a less than stellar 49ers’ secondary. The rookie looked at least competent in his first NFL start, and the 49ers have allowed the 8^th-most QB fantasy points per game and rank 20^th in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA statistic. San Francisco has also allowed at least 20 QB points and 2 passing TDs each and every week. Rosen has potential for a much better showing than what he did a week ago.

RBs Royce Freeman & Phillip Lindsay, DEN (Wk. 5: @NYJ): Freeman and Lindsay both have shown themselves to be weekly borderline RB2 options regardless of game script, and this week should be no different. The Jets have allowed 30+ RB points in back-to-back weeks, and are not a defense to run away from with this duo. Freeman is the better option in standard leagues, and Lindsay is the better option in PPR formats.

RB Kerryon Johnson, DET (Wk. 5: vs. GB): It’s going to be hard to fully rely on Kerryon until the Lions give him the keys to the backfield. His efficiency has been off the charts. He’s averaged more than 5 yards per carry in each of the last 3 games, but he’s averaged just 11 attempts per game. If his efficiency drops a bit, the weekly floor is concerning. Kerryon played just 20 snaps last week out of 54 team offensive snaps. That’s just not enough playing time to treat Johnson as an every-week starter.

RB Nyheim Hines, IND (Wk. 5: @NE): Hines’s role as the top receiving back in Indy seems pretty secure after the way he played in week 4. If Marlon Mack returns this week, I still think Hines gets a decent number of targets. The game script certainly will play in his favor with the Pats favored by 10. He’s going to be a valuable PPR flex option going forward.

WR Keke Coutee, HOU (Wk. 5: vs. Dal.): Will Fuller is questionable this week with a hamstring injury. If Fuller isn’t able to go, Coutee is a solid flex or WR3 in deeper leagues. He came on the scene in a big way last Sunday, putting up 11-109 on 15 targets in his season debut. The Cowboys do a good job of slowing down the game, but they rank just 26^th in pass defense DVOA. It may feel like point chasing to use Coutee this week, but the opportunity should be there if Fuller sits.

Rookies to Sit:

QB Baker Mayfield, CLE (Wk. 5: vs. Bal.): For all the excitement Mayfield brought in his first NFL action in leading the Browns to their first win in more than a year, he came crashing back to earth a bit in his first start. Mayfield turned the ball over 4 times against a lackluster Raiders’ team, and gets a tougher matchup with the Ravens this week. Baltimore ranks 5^th in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA stat, and they’ve allowed just one passing score total in the 3 games that they didn’t square off against the Bengals. You might not have a choice in deeper 2QB leagues, but I’d probably lean against Baker this week in most formats.

QB Sam Darnold, NYJ (Wk. 5: vs. Den.): The Broncos are not the shut down pass defense they once were, but they’re not exactly a defense to target either. Darnold has put up 3 consecutive shaky performances since his strong debut, and I don’t feel confident that this is the week he gets it going again. He’s a desperation QB2 at best.

QB Josh Allen, BUF (Wk. 5: vs. Ten.): We got to see the good Josh Allen against the Vikings 2 weeks ago, and the bad against the Packers last Sunday…and it was very bad. The Titans are a decent pass defense that has been improving as the season has gone on, but the Vikings weren’t exactly slouches on that side of the ball. Allen’s Jekyll & Hyde act makes him a boom-or-bust QB2 option. There is too much QB production out there this season to take on that weekly risk in a matchup like this one.

RB Jordan Wilkins, IND (Wk. 5: @NE): Game script is likely to be negative for the Colts in this one, and Wilkins hasn’t produced much in the opportunities he’s received thus far. Hines is a much better option at this point.

RB Rashaad Penny, SEA (Wk. 5: vs. LAR): Even with Chris Carson sidelined in week 4, Penny played second fiddle to Mike Davis, who was extremely impressive in a win over the Cardinals. The Rams are stingy versus the run, and Penny may be the number 3 back moving forward if Carson returns. This is a player to avoid for now.

RB Nick Chubb, CLE (Wk. 5: vs. Bal.): Chubb’s 2 long TD runs last Sunday were exciting to see and may have earned him more playing time moving forward, but he played just 3 snaps. The Ravens allow the 2^nd-fewest RB points per game, so I would steer clear even if you believe the playing time will go up. Don’t chase last week’s points.

RB Mark Walton, CIN (Wk. 5: vs. Mia.): Walton did see a bit more work behind Gio Bernard in week 4, but even with Mixon out he’s no more than a change-of-pace back. He shouldn’t be in your lineups at this point.

WR Courtland Sutton, DEN (Wk. 5: @NYJ): The Jets rank 2^nd in the league in pass defense DVOA, and QB Case Keenum’s play has been spotty at best. Sutton is no more than a DFS tournament dart throw this week, even though he’s been outplaying Demaryius Thomas lately.

WR Christian Kirk, ARI (Wk. 5: @SF): Kirk is averaging 5 catches per game over the past 3 weeks, but he also averaged 7 yards per catch or fewer in 2 of them. The QB switch to Rosen is likely good for him overall, but his current usage really isn’t helpful in fantasy leagues. A line of 5-30 isn’t going to be much benefit in anything but the deepest of leagues.

WR Antonio Callaway, CLE (Wk. 5: vs. Bal.): Callaway has seen plenty of opportunity over the past few weeks, but he hasn’t turned it into production and has made several mistakes on the field. Hue Jackson has talked about dialing back Callaway’s playing time this week. It may just be a motivation tactic, but I think he’ll make good on it Sunday. I’m staying away from Callaway this week, especially against a solid Ravens’ defense.

WR DJ Moore, CAR (Wk. 5: vs. NYG): I’m hopeful the Panthers made an effort to come up with ways to get DJ more involved over the bye week, but I need to see it before I believe it, especially facing a Giants’ defense that has allowed the fewest WR points per game in the league.

WR Michael Gallup, DAL (Wk. 5: @Hou.): The Texans’ defense against WRs is trending in the wrong direction (22.6, 27.9, 42.4. and 67.4 PPR points allowed in the first 4 games), and Gallup is trending in the right direction (1,2,4, and 5 targets in the first 4 games), but he’s still not seeing enough action to be worth a roll of the dice here. Gallup has totaled just 5-76-0 in 4 weeks.

TE Dallas Goedert, PHI (Wk. 5: vs. Min.): With Alshon back Goedert just wasn’t a featured part of the offense in week 4. He was targeted just twice in Carson Wentz’s 37 passing attempts. It seems that at least for now Zach Ertz is back in charge of the TE passing looks in the Eagles’ offense. Goedert should stay on your bench for now.

TEs Hayden Hurst & Mark Andrews, BAL (Wk. 5: @Cle.): Hurst’s likely return this week makes an already murky TE situation even more confusing for Baltimore. There are already 3 tight ends playing a decent number of snaps, and adding a 4^th won’t add much clarity. We need to wait at least a week to see how things play out.

TE Ian Thomas, CAR (Wk. 5: vs. NYG): The Giants are allowing the 5^th-fewest TE points per game, and Thomas has yet to clear 20 receiving yards in a game. He has been targeted in the red zone 3 times, but the Giants are yet to allow a TD to a tight end. I don’t expect Thomas to be the one to break through this week.

Rookies on bye: RB Ronald Jones III, TB

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

RB Ito Smith, ATL (Wk. 5: @Pit.): If Devonta Freeman is active this week, scratch everything that I write here about Smith this week, but Ito has been useful in the deepest of leagues while Freeman has been out. He’s averaged 8 touches and 43 yards per game over the last 3 weeks, and should make an intriguing fill-in for really deep leagues and DFS tournaments if Devonta winds up sidelined again. This game has the makings of a shootout, so there will be plenty of fantasy numbers to go around.

WR James Washington, PIT (Wk. 5: vs. Atl.): The Falcons have been shredded by WRs thus far, and have lost 3 safeties to injury this season. Washington has been playing a ton of snaps. The targets are bound to come eventually. He’s an upside dart throw in DFS tournaments this weekend with this game having the highest over/under number of the week.

WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, GB (Wk. 5: @Det.): Randall Cobb wasn’t close to playing last week. Geronimo Allison was concussed last Sunday against Buffalo. Davante Adams will match up against Darius “Big Play” Slay. If Allison is out, There will be opportunity for one of Green Bay’s rookie WRs. Valdes-Scantling is the most likely beneficiary after playing 54 snaps in Cobb’s absence in week 4. We haven’t seen enough production to trust him in season-long leagues, but he’s a very interesting DFS dart throw for tournaments this week.

TE Mike Gesicki, MIA (Wk. 5: @Cin.): This is as good a week as any to try Gesicki in DFS tournaments. The Bengals have allowed the 5^th-most fantasy points per game to tight ends, and have allowed a TD to the position in 3 out of 4 games. Game script should keep the Dolphins throwing with Cincy favored by nearly a touchdown.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps you with your tougher lineup decisions this week that involve rookies. Make sure to keep a close eye on the injury report throughout the week and make certain not to start anyone who is sitting the week out. If you have any questions or want to yell at me about anything written above, feel free to hit me up on twitter and let me know (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.