Week 3 of the fantasy football season is already in progress, and for many managers, it’s time to make some critical decisions that could make or break the season.
Even if your team is off to a rocky start and sitting at 0-2, don’t despair.
The first two weeks of the NFL season have provided some valuable insights, but let’s be honest: it’s still early.
There’s just enough data to start making more educated choices, but not so much that you can rest easy and set your lineup on autopilot.
For Week 3, you’ll need to be more strategic than ever.
Deciding who to start and who to sit is one of the most important-and often stressful-parts of managing a fantasy football team.
A strong decision can push you to victory, while a poor one can send you spiraling into the depths of the league standings.
Fortunately, Week 3 is packed with matchups that create opportunities for players to shine or fall short, and knowing which players to trust is the key to pulling yourself out of an 0-2 hole or maintaining your winning momentum.
Players to Start in Week 3
Derek Carr (Quarterback, NO)
Derek Carr has been solid so far, and he faces a vulnerable Eagles defense that has historically given up a lot of points to quarterbacks.
While Carr isn’t known for his running game, his ability to capitalize on the Eagles’ weaknesses in coverage could make him a strong play in Week 3.
Expect him to deliver a solid performance.
D’Andre Swift (Running Back, CHI)
Swift is poised for a big game against a Colts defense that has struggled to stop the run.
After allowing significant yardage in the first two weeks, Indianapolis’ run defense appears to be an area to exploit.
Even though the Bears’ offense has had its issues, Swift has the perfect matchup to break through and deliver a standout game.
Tee Higgins (Wide Receiver, CIN)
If Tee Higgins returns for Week 3, he could step right back into his WR2 role in Cincinnati’s high-powered offense.
Washington’s defense has struggled against wide receivers, making this a prime matchup for Higgins to shine.
Fantasy managers who have been patient with him could be rewarded with a strong showing.
Zack Moss (Running Back, CIN)
Washington’s defense has been porous, particularly against pass-catching backs.
Moss has shown he can fill this role effectively, and with Tee Higgins potentially sidelined or limited, Moss could see an uptick in targets.
His versatility makes him a solid option, especially in PPR formats.
Players to sit in Week 3
Matthew Stafford (Quarterback, LAR)
With Cooper Kupp’s status uncertain, Stafford may have a tough time moving the ball against a talented 49ers defense.
The lack of proven weapons in the Rams’ passing game makes Stafford a risky play this week, particularly against such a strong opponent.
J.K. Dobbins (Running Back, LAC)
While Dobbins has been efficient, averaging nearly 10 yards per carry, Week 3 presents a tough challenge against Pittsburgh’s elite run defense.
The Steelers have shut down top backs like Bijan Robinson and Javonte Williams, which makes Dobbins a sit candidate for fantasy managers this week.
Brandon Aiyuk (Wide Receiver, SF)
Aiyuk has had a slow start to the season, and history suggests he struggles against the Rams.
With the 49ers’ offense spreading the ball around to multiple receivers, it’s hard to trust Aiyuk to deliver a fantasy-relevant performance in Week 3.
Dalton Schultz (Tight End, HOU)
Schultz has yet to find a significant role in the Texans’ offense, sitting behind multiple receivers in the pecking order.
With limited targets and opportunities, he’s not a viable option for Week 3.
