As Week 2 of the2024 Fantasy Football season approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Week 1 provided a taste of what’s to come, but Week 2 is where decisions get dicey. Lineups are locked, nerves are frazzled, and fantasy managers everywhere are either riding high or desperately seeking redemption. This is the week where championships begin to take shape, and knowing who to start or sit can make or break your season. But tread carefully-overreaction to one game is the silent killer in fantasy.
The temptation is there. That rookie quarterback who blew up in Week 1? The running back who underperformed? Do you trust the data, or is it too soon to call? The truth is, there’s no crystal ball, but there are trends and matchups, and we’re here to help you navigate the chaos. As we break down Week 2’s must-starts and those better left on the bench, we’ll dive deep into the intrigue surrounding each pick.
Start: Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders (vs. NYG)
The fantasy world was left stunned after Jayden Daniels’ Week 1 performance. The rookie sensation ran circles around defenses, reminding everyone why dual-threat QBs are so valuable in today’s game. Sixteen rush attempts, 88 yards, two touchdowns. Sure, it wasn’t always pretty, but what fantasy manager cares when the numbers pile up? Enter Week 2, and Daniels faces a Giants defense that seems lost in translation. If Sam Darnold could tear them apart, Daniels should feast. Expect fireworks.
Start: Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers (at DEN)
Last season, Najee Harris was a bit of a mystery, splitting touches in a backfield that had fantasy managers pulling their hair out. Week 1, however, saw the return of the bell cow. Harris took control with 77% of the rushes, leaving his teammates fighting for scraps. Against a Broncos defense that looked shaky at best, Harris is set to dominate again. Denver gave up 103 yards to Kenneth Walker in Week 1, and now it’s Najee’s turn to shine. He’s poised to break into the end zone for the first time this season.
Start: Brian Robinson Jr., RB, Washington Commanders (vs. NYG)
The Commanders may have been outclassed by the Buccaneers in Week 1, but that doesn’t tell the full story of Brian Robinson Jr.’s value. Despite playing from behind for most of the game, Robinson saw 56% of the snaps, and more importantly, he found the end zone. Against a Giants defense that allowed Aaron Jones to run wild, Robinson’s workload should increase. With Daniels pulling defenders with his legs, Robinson’s efficiency will skyrocket. He’s a lock for Week 2 lineups.
Sit: Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars (vs. CLE)
Trevor Lawrence was expected to take the next step this season, but Week 1 did not inspire confidence. Throwing for only 162 yards and one touchdown, Lawrence now faces a Cleveland defense that held Dak Prescott to 179 yards in Week 1. The Browns’ defense is no joke, and Lawrence has historically struggled against elite units. This week, the Jaguars face another uphill battle. Fantasy managers looking for stability should keep Lawrence on the bench in Week 2.
Start: Amari Cooper, WR, Cleveland Browns (at JAX)
Amari Cooper’s Week 1 box score was nothing short of disastrous-two catches for 16 yards. But don’t let the numbers fool you. Cooper still saw nine targets and led the team in routes run, a clear sign that he remains Deshaun Watson’s go-to option. Against a Jacksonville defense that struggles to contain wide receivers, Cooper is primed for a bounce-back game. Watson may not be the quarterback he once was, but Cooper’s talent should shine through in Week 2.
Sit: Chuba Hubbard, RB, Carolina Panthers (vs. LAC)
Week 1 was supposed to be Chuba Hubbard’s breakout opportunity with Jonathon Brooks sidelined. Instead, he managed just six carries for 14 yards in a baffling committee approach. Now, facing a revitalized Chargers defense that stifled the Raiders’ rushing attack, Hubbard’s role is too uncertain to trust. With the Panthers’ offense stuck in neutral, Hubbard should be riding the bench in Week 2.
Start: Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants (at WAS)
Rookie wideouts can be a risky start, but Malik Nabers’ Week 1 performance solidified his role as the Giants’ top option. Five catches for 66 yards might not jump off the page, but the volume and opportunity are there. The Giants face a Washington defense that continues to struggle against the pass, allowing Baker Mayfield to torch them for four touchdowns. If you’re looking for upside, Nabers is the play this week.
Start: Mark Andrews, TE, Baltimore Ravens (vs. LV)
After a disappointing Week 1 where Mark Andrews was largely held in check, fantasy managers are questioning his value. But don’t panic just yet. The Ravens’ tight end remains one of the most talented players at his position, and Week 2 brings a much easier matchup against a Raiders defense that struggles to contain elite tight ends. Andrews will bounce back, making him a must-start in all formats.
Sit: Zamir White, RB, Las Vegas Raiders (at BAL)
The Raiders’ backfield remains a conundrum for fantasy managers. Zamir White led the team in carries in Week 1 but was out-snapped by Alexander Mattison. Against a Baltimore defense that shut down Isiah Pacheco, White is in for a rough ride. Game script will likely favor the passing game, leaving White with limited opportunities. Keep him on your bench for Week 2.
Week 2 is where the line between success and failure starts to blur in fantasy football. Navigating the chaos of early-season trends and deciphering matchups can feel like a high-wire act. But trust in the process, take calculated risks, and remember-it’s only Week 2. The road to fantasy glory is long, but each start and sit decision inches you closer to victory.
