As we head into Week 3 of the NFL season, fantasy football managers are beginning to feel the pressure. Maybe that wide receiver you took early isn’t living up to the hype, or you’re scrambling for a breakout running back.
The key to staying competitive is finding those hidden gems-“sleepers” who can outperform their expectations. Here’s a rundown of some fantasy football sleepers for Week 3 that could give you that much-needed edge.
Week 3 running back fantasy sleepers
Jeff Wilson, Miami Dolphins
With Raheem Mostert likely sidelined and Tua Tagovailoa still recovering, Jeff Wilson becomes a crucial figure in the Dolphins’ offense.
Skylar Thompson is expected to start at quarterback, which means Miami will likely rely heavily on their ground game.
While De’Von Achane should see his fair share of carries, Wilson could inherit a Mostert-like workload, making him a valuable sleeper pick.
Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers
Jaylen Warren has been gradually getting more involved in the Steelers’ offense after recovering from a hamstring injury.
He had nine carries for 42 yards and two catches for 19 yards in Week 2, and with Pittsburgh’s run-heavy game plan, Warren’s role could expand further.
He’s shown flashes of being the most talented back on the roster, and in a team that’s off to a surprising 2-0 start, Warren is someone to keep an eye on.
Week 3 quarterback fantasy sleepers
Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers
Brock Purdy has faced tough defenses so far, but things are looking up as the 49ers prepare to take on the Rams, a team struggling defensively.
The Rams have been hit hard by injuries, and opposing quarterbacks have had success against them, including a standout performance from Kyler Murray in Week 2.
This is a prime opportunity for Purdy to bounce back and put up some big fantasy numbers.
Derek Carr, New Orleans Saints
Derek Carr has a favorable matchup against an Eagles team that hasn’t been living up to expectations.
While the Eagles may turn things around eventually, they’re not a defense to fear right now.
Carr has been steady with the Saints, and with the offense clicking under Klint Kubiak, he’s in a good position to deliver a solid fantasy performance this week.
Week 3 wide receiver fantasy sleepers
Darnell Mooney, Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are in need of reliable receiving options beyond Drake London, and Darnell Mooney has stepped up.
His recent performance helped Atlanta pull off an unexpected win against Philadelphia, and this kind of trust from veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could make Mooney a valuable option in Week 3.
With a Sunday Night Football matchup against Kansas City, Mooney could be a great sleeper pick.
Diontae Johnson/Adam Thielen, Carolina Panthers
Carolina’s quarterback situation has been shaky, but with Bryce Young benched in favor of Andy Dalton, the Panthers’ passing game might be in for a boost.
While Dalton isn’t an elite QB, he’s more capable of spreading the ball around.
That means both Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen could see more targets and become viable sleeper options against a shaky Las Vegas Raiders defense.
Josh Reynolds, Denver Broncos
Despite the struggles of the Broncos’ passing game, Josh Reynolds has been a consistent target, receiving 13 looks in the first two weeks.
He’s turned those opportunities into 138 yards, making him a decent option if you’re in need of a flex player or WR3.
Facing a Tampa Bay defense in Week 3, Reynolds could be poised for another solid outing.
