Week 9 is here, marking the halfway point of the fantasy football season. While this week doesn’t bring a long list of injury concerns, there are some notable names potentially returning to action — including Ricky Pearsall, Calvin Ridley, and Christian Kirk.
In the meantime, there are a few players you may want to stay clear of in Week 9 if possible. Courtland Sutton tops that list after a major disappointment in Week 8. He’ll face the Texans, who allow the third-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers. It’s become clear that the Broncos don’t need to rely on Sutton to win games this season, and the matchup doesn’t do him any favors. Houston has allowed just two receivers to eclipse 80 yards all year, and both of those players primarily operated from the slot — not where Sutton typically lines up. Expect another quiet outing from him in Week 9. –Steve Pintado
Another player to consider benching in Week 9 is Nico Collins. Collins has been wildly inconsistent this season, with just one true breakout performance to his name. He now faces the No. 1-ranked Broncos defense, which has quietly become one of the toughest units in the league. Yes, Pat Surtain II will miss this game, but Denver’s secondary remains strong across the board. With C.J. Stroud likely spreading the ball around and avoiding tough coverage looks, Collins could once again disappoint fantasy managers. If you have other viable options, it’s wise to keep Collins on the bench in Week 9. –Steve Pintado
One player who flashed a few weeks ago and deserves your trust in Week 9 is Travis Hunter. The rookie wideout is coming off an 8-catch, 100-yard performance and now draws a fantastic matchup against the Raiders, who rank as the fifth-worst defense versus fantasy wide receivers. Las Vegas has surrendered five receiving touchdowns over their last two games, and Hunter’s big-play ability makes him a prime candidate to capitalize. Coming off the bye week, you can bet the Jaguars focused on getting their talented rookie more involved in the offense. Hunter profiles as a solid WR3 with upside in Week 9 lineups. –Steve Pintado
If you’re looking for a dart-throw flex play in Week 9, turn your attention to Alec Pierce. The Colts face the Steelers, who boast one of the league’s stronger run defenses, meaning Indianapolis may need to lean on the passing game more than usual, limiting Jonathan Taylor’s workload. Over the past two weeks, Pittsburgh has given up multiple chunk plays through the air, and Pierce fits that mold perfectly. He owns the second-highest average depth of target (21.4 yards) in the league, giving him legitimate big-play potential. While Pierce’s production has been inconsistent, this matchup offers more reward than risk and makes him a sneaky Flex option in Week 9. –Steve Pintado