What We Saw Roundup – Week 1

A new format including all the NFL Week 1 nuggets and nuance from around the NFL – Here's What We Saw!

Brett Ford
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Baltimore Ravens

Zay Flowers (BAL) vs. IND: 6 Targets, 5 Receptions, 150 Yards, 1 TD

Zay’s big day. Some drafters may have been timid to pull the trigger on him at ADP based on his lower volume of targets compared to other similarly ranked receivers, but Flowers made the most of his 6 targets. Keep in mind, he ended with 6 targets after only the first half. Now he might not be turning these receptions into 40+ yarders every week with his yards after the catch, but he did it twice in this one, and will have that big play ability every week, especially with the defense having their hands full dealing with the Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson run game. Flowers was forced to enter the medical tent and was later ruled out in the third quarter. Hopefully precautionary, as the Ravens were still up 31-16 in the third quarter and controlling the game.

 

 

Ja’Kobi Lane (BAL) vs. IND: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 11 Yards

The stat line may be deceptive, but this was a very encouraging start for the rookie. He got his targets very close together in the game, but had two end zone looks; one was a touchdown that got called back. Lane could be a solid look as the season goes on, especially if Flowers is forced to miss any time, as he builds more chemistry with Jackson, but I’d still consider him behind Bateman for now.

Update: Lane unfortunately suffered a broken wrist in this contest and will miss several weeks. A tough blow considering the looks he was getting in this game, but keep an eye on his recovery timeline.

Chris Moore (BAL) vs. IND: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 53 yards

Moore was able to turn his lone reception into a large gain, but that was about all there was to his day. He was elevated from the practice squad for the game and only saw an increase in snaps once Flowers left the game.

Rashod Bateman (BAL) vs. IND: 1 Target, 0 Receptions

A weird game for Bateman. He actually led the receivers in snaps, which means he could still be worth a look, especially if Flowers were to miss time, as he is the only other receiver with a seemingly guaranteed role. Bateman was on the field with Flowers in 12 personnel.

 

Buffalo Bills

DJ Moore (BUF) vs. HOU: 8 Targets, 5 Receptions, 100 Yards, TD

Putting the washed allegations to rest. Moore looked great in his first game with Josh Allen. He was able to pretty easily get open on a handful of in-breaking routes and caught one deep down the field as Allen went through his progressions. The defender went for the interception, whiffed, and Moore walked in for the touchdown. With Moore being the most talented receiver Allen has had since Stefon Diggs, Moore of this is to be expected.

Khalil Shakir (BUF) vs. HOU: 6 Targets, 4 Receptions, 50 Yards

A fine day for Shakir; he was second behind Moore in snaps, routes run, and targets. If Allen’s passing volume stays closer to last year’s totals instead of the years prior, Shakir should be looked at as a flex option at best, especially if Kincaid’s usage keeps up.

 

Joshua Palmer (BUF) vs. HOU: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 34 Yards, TD

Likely not a factor from a fantasy perspective, but showed some big-play potential if either Moore or Shakir were to miss any time.

 

Cincinnati Bengals

Tee Higgins (CIN) vs. TAM: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 59 Yards

Tee Higgins clutch gene on full display. Not quite the biggest fantasy day ever, but he had an awesome catch to seal the game. Both he and Chase should be in line to see their more normal stat lines. Continue starting both with confidence.

Ja’Marr Chase (CIN) vs. TAM: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 12 Yards

Not the performance you might have expected when you saw the Bengals put up 33 points. Joe Burrow spread the ball around amongst a lot of his receiving options: 7 to Gesicki, 6 to Higgins, 4 to Chase, 3 to Iosivas and Sample. Interestingly, Gesicki ran routes out of solely three WR sets, so I would not expect him to keep up this target volume. Higgins and Chase will see more targets and be back to the performances we are used to.

 

Andrei Iosivas (CIN) vs. TAM: 3 Targets, 2 Receptions, 12 Yards

Does anyone handcuff receivers? Anyone who gets a lot of targets from Burrow has a chance for big games, but, yeah, Iosivas will really only be relevant if Chase or Higgins misses time.

 

Cleveland Browns

KC Concepcion (CLE) vs. JAX: 5 Targets, 4 Receptions, 43 Yards

Concepcion ran the fewest routes among the trio of him, Boston, and Jeudy. Despite that, he managed to lead the group in targets, albeit with only 5. Concepcion saw the field for most 11 personnel snaps and shared 12 personnel with Jeudy. He may begin to take more of those as the season goes on as they work to get more designed work for their rooks.

 

Denzel Boston (CLE) vs. JAX: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 59 Yards, TD

Boston ended with a decent stat line for fantasy, although heavily buoyed by a late-game touchdown with fewer than two minutes left in the game, while the team was down 34-3. Boston did play the most snaps and ran the most routes of the receiver group, which is encouraging. His usage in both 11 and 12 personnel gives hope he can see more than 4 targets week to week. Generally, better quarterback play would be incredible for both Concepcion and Boston, but I’m unsure of how much of that we’ll see this year.

 

Jerry Jeudy (CLE) vs. OPP: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 26 Yards

Seeing as many targets as both rookies doesn’t bode well for Jeudy’s projections ROS. He was out-snapped by both and ran fewer routes than Boston. Somehow, Jeudy is still only 27, but the Browns may want to focus more on their rookies down the stretch.

 

Denver Broncos

The Broncos travel to Kansas City on Monday night to face the Chiefs. Both of those teams will be covered in our Monday Night edition of What We Saw, published on Tuesday morning.

 

Houston Texans

Nico Collins (HOU) vs. BUF: 10 Targets, 7 Receptions, 75 Yards, TD

No one doubted Collins as the WR1 in the Texans offense. With an improved run game stemming from David Montgomery, Stroud and the receivers will have less pressure on them, making their lives easier. If Collins can stay healthy, he should be a go to still see his normal 8-10 targets per game.

 

Xavier Hutchinson (HOU) vs. BUF: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 32 Yards

Hutchinson will be in contention for the WR2 on this team. He had a couple of easy manufactured touches and an overthrow deep that would have boosted his day into flex territory. I think he’s most likely to claim the WR2 role on the team, especially since he was still on the field in 12 personnel, but it worth monitoring his and Kayshon Boutte‘s usage moving forward.

 

Jaylin Noel (HOU) vs. BUF: 2 Targets, 2 Receptions, 53 Yards

Best left for the wire as he was fifth amongst the receiver group in snaps, even behind Jared Wayne, who only received one target himself.

 

Kayshon Boutte (HOU) vs. BUF: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 21 Yards

Not an ideal start for Boutte in his first action with his new team, but he did run nearly as many routes as Hutchinson despite playing fewer snaps. He’ll be in the mix for WR2 on the team, but may be better left for the wire barring injury to Collins.

 

Indianapolis Colts

Alec Pierce (IND) vs. BAL: 6 Targets, 4 Receptions, 61 Yards

Pierce split snaps at the X this game. Considering his limited practice leading up to the game, his usage is definitely encouraging for his outlook moving forward. His high yards per reception allows him to have higher boom potential despite his lower target volume. Pierce only had 3 games last season with Daniel Jones with 6 or more targets, and already got 1 in slightly limited reps this week.

 

Keenan Allen (IND) vs. BAL: 6 Targets, 6 Receptions, 32 Yards

The type of week Allen should be expected to have. He is still good at winning routes and getting open. Hopefully he can have a greater yards per reception, but he’ll be in the mix to hit double-digit points week to week.

 

Josh Downs (IND) vs. BAL: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 37 yards

Downs was involved early, passing the eye test, getting open easily with his route running ability. It looked like it was going to be a big day for Downs and the offense as a whole. However, from there, Downs didn’t get too much more despite leading the receivers in snaps. A big reason for optimism is that Downs stayed on the field in 12 personnel most of the time, giving him his highest potential for a high target volume that he’s had to this point in his career.

 

Jacksonville Jaguars

Parker Washington (JAX) vs. CLE: 6 Targets, 5 Receptions, 83 Yards, TD

WR1. That’s all. Washington looked great, lined up all over the field, going about 50/50 outside and the slot. He was the alpha receiver in this game even before Brian Thomas Jr. left the game.

Brian Thomas Jr. (JAX) vs. CLE: 3 Targets, 3 Receptions, 40 Yards

A bummer leaving the game briefly with a shoulder injury. Thomas was looking really solid alongside Parker Washington in the first half. His usage is encouraging as he ran routes on the majority of his snaps, a higher rate than both Washington and Jakobi Meyers.

 

Jakobi Meyers (JAX) vs. CLE: 2 Targets, 2 Receptions, 40 Yards, TD

Slightly unexpected usage for Meyers in this one. Washington actually out-snapped him from the slot and ended his day with only two targets, although he turned one of those into a big touchdown. He was on the field far more than Thomas in 12 personnel, so he also has a chance to be the WR2 in the offense. Worth monitoring usage moving forward, especially between Meyers and Thomas as the Jags play more competitive games.

Josh Cameron (JAX) vs. CLE: 2 Targets, 2 Receptions, 20 Yards, 1 TD

Wanted to shout out Josh Cameron for his impressive touchdown catch, snatching a tough, tight window target out of the air. Still very buried down the depth chart.

 

Travis Hunter (JAX) vs. CLE: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 8 Yards | 1 Carry, 3 Yards

Hunter got designed touches when he was on the field with the offense; however, that was for only 4 snaps. He has potential to pop but likely would require an injury to one of the three of Washington, Meyers, and Thomas to see consistent usage.

 

 

Kansas City Chiefs

The Broncos travel to Kansas City on Monday night to face the Chiefs. Both of those teams will be covered in our Monday Night edition of What We Saw, published on Tuesday morning.

Las Vegas Raiders

Jack Bech (LVR) vs. MIA: 4 Targets, 3 Receptions, 23 Yards, TD

Nice to see Bech convert a touchdown in this one. The second-year receiver has some expectations over him as a second-round draft pick. I think Kirk has a better chance of producing fantasy-viable receivers compared to Geno Smith from last year, especially with the revamped coaching staff, although Bech played noticeably fewer snaps than Tre Tucker and Jalen Nailor.

Jalen Nailor (LVR) vs. MIA: 5 Targets, 3 Receptions, 27 Yards

Tre Tucker (LVR) vs. MIA: 5 Targets, 2 Receptions, 27 Yards

Given the low amount of targets spread across the entire receiver group, these guys might be better left on the wire. Bowers’ imminent return furthers that case.

Los Angeles Chargers

Ladd McConkey (LAC) vs. ARZ: 7 Targets, 5 Receptions, 82 Yards, TD

Ladd was awesome in this game. If you only watched the first quarter, you’d have thought he was going for 250 today; McConkey was bringing in everything. Assuming the offense, particularly the line, stays healthier than it did last year, along with the changes in coaching staff and Keenan Allen‘s departure, McConkey’s line should return closer to that of his rookie campaign. He did unfortunately have to leave the game early with a chest injury, so hopefully he does not have to miss extended time.

Tre’ Harris (LAC) vs. ARZ: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 20 Yards

Harris definitely has a chance to find fantasy relevance in this offense. The Chargers played a lot of 11 personnel, leaving a lot of snaps for all of McConkey, Harris, and Johnston. It will be interesting to see their 11 vs. 12 personnel usage moving forward, as both Charlie Kolar and David Njoku saw at 30 snaps, with Oronde Gadsden only seeing 10. Integrating the tight ends more into the offense can limit Harris, as he was on the field less in 12 personnel until McConkey left the game.

 

Quentin Johnston (LAC) vs. ARZ: 6 Targets, 2 Receptions, 17 Yards

A lackluster start for Johnston. He had some exciting moments in preseason, connecting with Herbert for touchdowns, leading to some hype and hope that he could return value on his ADP. He ran the same amount of snaps as Harris and was on the field in 12 personnel alongside McConkey.

 

Miami Dolphins

Caleb Douglas (MIA) vs. LVR: 7 Targets, 5 Receptions, 94 Yards

Douglas looked good in this game. Not many, myself included, were particularly excited about any of Malik Willis‘ receiving options, but Willis is quite good at avoiding pressure and extending plays with his legs. His top receiving targets could see week-to-week relevance as they build chemistry with him, especially considering the Dolphins are likely to be trailing in a lot of games. Off the eye test alone, I was most impressed with Douglas. He showed good route running, using his body to position himself well into making his cut where Willis could find him open. The Dolphins offense still isn’t the most exciting, but could be good enough to keep themselves in games and churn out fantasy-relevant performances.

 

Malik Washington (MIA) vs. LVR: 8 Targets, 3 Receptions, 53 Yards

Washington and Douglas both saw over 50 snaps and 30 routes run, giving them the highest usage by far of this receiver group. Washington saw all of the snaps in two- and three-receiver sets and, similarly, has a chance to be a weekly flex option if he can be the WR1 in the offense.

 

Chris Bell (MIA) vs. LVR: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 25 Yards

Bell didn’t see very many targets at all in his 20 routes run. Based on the usage Douglas and Washington saw, the rookie Bell likely won’t see any fantasy relevance this season.

 

New England Patriots

A.J. Brown (NE) vs. SEA: 4 Targets, 3 Receptions, 26 Yards

Certainly not the game Brown owners were hoping for. It began with some easy receptions in the first half, trying to find some rhythm with Drake Maye. However, it ended in injury with a multi-week diagnosis for a high-ankle sprain. Given Maye’s struggles following Brown’s departure, we can hope for a strong second half from Brown once Maye gets his best receiver back, but there are definite concerns over lingering effects from the injury limiting him the whole season.

 

DeMario Douglas (NE) vs. SEA: 7 Targets, 5 Receptions, 20 Yards

Douglas might see the most consistent workload week to week, especially while Brown is out. Neither Doubs nor Hollins carries the same gravity as Brown, so the slot guy who showed some prior chemistry with Maye might be the guy to own moving forward.

 

Mack Hollins (NE) vs. SEA: 5 Targets, 4 Receptions, 51 Yards

Hollins was just getting open in this game. Late in this matchup, as the Pats were trying to stage their comeback, Maye was able to repeatedly find Hollins. Hollins excels at finding soft spots in the zone and settling in for easy receptions. However, despite leading the receivers in snap count, he still ran fewer routes than Doubs and Douglas. Hollins could be a speculative add at least in the weeks leading up to Brown’s return to see if his connection with Maye sticks and if his snap share leads to an increase in targets.

 

Romeo Doubs (NE) vs. SEA: 3 Targets, 0 Receptions

Doubs, a popular late-round target who had seen varying levels of success with Jordan Love and the Packers, did not have an encouraging night for the late-round drafters who thought he could pop with an upgraded offense and Quarterback in Drake Maye. He saw fewer snaps than both Mack Hollins and DeMario Douglas and was unable to convert any of his three targets into receptions; notably, one was an ill-advised throw from Maye when Doubs was completely blanketed by his defender, and the other, a terrible drop deeper down the field. Doubs should still have plenty of opportunity over the next few weeks to carve out a solid role in the receiving group with Brown set to miss at least the next couple of games.

 

New York Jets

Garrett Wilson (NYJ) vs. TEN: 7 Targets, 6 Receptions, 79 Yards

I don’t have much more faith in Geno Smith than I did in Justin Fields last season, but as long as he can keep the targets coming for Wilson, and at a high enough quality target rate to make him more efficient, Wilson should have another quality year.

 

Adonai Mitchell (NYJ) vs. TEN: 3 Targets, 3 Receptions, 60 Yards

Mitchell has some weekly upside based on his deep play threat, but likely won’t see the target volume to trust week to week.

 

Omar Cooper Jr. (NYJ) vs. TEN: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 30 Yards

A slow start for the rookie as he only has 5 snaps, well behind third-year receiver Isaiah Williams, who had 40 snaps, and also only 1 target. Chances are, this offense won’t be good enough to support more than one fantasy-relevant pass catcher beyond Garrett Wilson, although they will be down in a lot of games.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

DK Metcalf (PIT) vs. ATL: 10 Targets, 4 Receptions, 40 Yards

The drops and miscues were tough to see, but 10 targets is encouraging to see after only seeing about 7 targets per game last season. This offense is frustrating to watch as there is still very little motion, but that may be a benefit to Metcalf, as Pittman and Wilson are superior route runners.

 

Michael Pittman Jr. (PIT) vs. ATL: 3 Targets, 3 Receptions, 58 Yards

Pittman and Metcalf saw about all of the snaps on the offense in this game. There was a lot of Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington mixed into the receiving options, but that should not affect Metcalf and Pittman.

 

Roman Wilson (PIT) vs. ATL: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 26 Yards

Despite mixing in a lot of tight end play, Wilson still saw a good chunk of snaps, six targets, and turned that into three receptions. His floor will be limited by not playing as many snaps as Metcalf and Pittman, but he still saw significantly more usage than rookie Germie Bernard, who should not be expected to see any fantasy relevance this season.

 

Tennessee Titans

Carnell Tate (TEN) vs. NYJ: 6 Targets, 4 Receptions, 38 Yards

At least Tate had a better catch rate than his preseason games. Cam Ward does not inspire a whole lot of confidence in rostering his receiver options. Tate never should have been ranked as high as he was, but the rookie did play the most snaps of any of this receiver group. He was one overthrow on a deep crosser away from a double-digit PPR performance. If the offense can build rhythm as the season goes on, Tate could work his way into flex consideration, but I would leave him on the bench until further notice.

 

Wan’Dale Robinson (TEN) vs. NYJ: 6 Targets, 5 Receptions, 38 Yards

Robinson will need to see more than 6 targets if he wants to continue to be the PPR legend that he was last year. He still excels in the short-yardage situations, but that leaves his yards per catch low and a low fantasy ceiling overall. Similar to Tate, I would leave Robinson on the bench until the offense shows more.

 

Elic Ayomanor (TEN) vs. NYJ: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 11 Yards, TD

Ayomanor saw fewer snaps than even Calvin Ridley, who saw zero targets. His touchdown was the only thing getting him close to a fantasy-relevant day. With Tate and Robinson in the fold, Ayomanor likely won’t see enough snaps to be considered.

 

 

NFC

Writer: Pranav Babarjung

Arizona Cardinals

Kendrick Bourne (ARI) vs. LAC: 8 Targets, 8 Receptions, 75 yards

All of these receivers play behind premier pass catcher Trey McBride, as expected, but Bourne seems to have carved out a role for himself in this offense. He caught all of his targets, with five of those receptions being first downs. He was consistently targeted throughout the game and set up the field goal to close out the second half.

 

Michael Wilson (ARI) vs. LAC: 7 Targets, 5 Receptions, 56 Yards

Wilson was the third receiving option in this game. He only really came alive from the end of the second quarter onward. Unlike last year, he was not targeted as an end zone option.

 

Marvin Harrison Jr. (ARI) vs. LAC: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 33 Yards

Harrison was just not part of the game plan in this outing. He had two deep targets in the third quarter and came down with one of them for his only fantasy contribution. Hopefully this was just a game-script issue, as the Cardinals were firmly in control most of the game.

 

Atlanta Falcons

Drake London (ATL) vs. PIT: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 29 Yards | 1 Carry, 6 Yards

Jahan Dotson (ATL) vs. PIT: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 19 Yards

Olamide Zaccheaus (ATL) vs. PIT: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 5 Yards

Bro. Ew. This offense (minus Bijan Robinson) was genuinely vile. I guess that is to be expected when Tua Tagovailoa goes out with an injury a few days before the season opener, but this was just disgusting. EIGHT total wide receiver targets? Even Nick Folk couldn’t get anything going (two missed field goals). They have an easier matchup against Carolina next week, but I’d be hesitant to start anyone from this pass attack if Cooper Rush continues under center.

 

Carolina Panthers

Jalen Coker (CAR) vs. CHI: 9 Targets, 8 Receptions, 138 Yards, 2 TDs

It’s not every day you get to play the Bears, and Coker took advantage. He absolutely torched this defense for triple-digit yards and multiple scores, similar to his performance against the Rams in the playoffs last year. He was targeted consistently throughout the game and seems to be Bryce Young’s go-to option. Potentially insane value from what was likely a late-round dart throw for most fantasy managers.

 

Tetairoa McMillan (CAR) vs. CHI: 8 Targets, 5 Receptions, 75 Yards, Fumble (LOST)

McMillan started off slow. He only had two targets in the entire first half and had the ball punched out on his longest reception of the day. However, this passing attack was concentrated almost entirely on Coker and McMillan. If Carolina continues to play from behind as they did in this game, the game script should favor both.

 

Xavier Legette (CAR) vs. CHI: 2 Targets, 0 Receptions

Jimmy Horn (CAR) vs. CHI: 1 Target, 0 Receptions, Fumble (LOST)

 

Chicago Bears

Kalif Raymond (CHI) vs. CAR: 9 Targets, 8 Receptions, 84 Yards

Raymond leads this receiving room in targets?? And it’s not close?? To be fair, this was a heavily run-focused game from Chicago, which was to be expected given the reasonably stout Carolina pass defense. Perhaps Raymond’s familiarity with Ben Johnson from their days in Detroit will benefit his fantasy prospects, but we’re not going to rank him ahead of the other receivers on this team just yet.

 

Luther Burden III (CHI) vs. CAR: 5 Targets, 5 Receptions, 63 Yards, Fumble (LOST)

For how hyped up he was coming into this game, Burden put up a pretty disappointing first performance. He lost the ball on his first reception of the game and wasn’t targeted in the end zone at all. Again, this was a run-heavy game, so take this with a grain of salt. His target volume compared to Rome Odunze and Colston Loveland is encouraging.

 

Rome Odunze (CHI) vs. CAR: 3 Targets, 2 Receptions, 52 Yards

Odunze was questionable coming into the game with a calf injury and was shadowed by Jaycee Horn. He did come down with a big reception for 47 yards in the first quarter, but didn’t do much for the rest of the game. He wasn’t able to get a second 40+ yard reception nearing the end of the second quarter, and wasn’t targeted at all in the second half. The game was well controlled by the Bears by that point, so I wouldn’t read too much into it. His usage mainly as a deep threat is more concerning than the second-half target volume.

 

Jahdae Walker (CHI) vs. CAR: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 1 Yard, TD

That’s right. In a game where the Bears put up 59 points, the only wide receiver who hit paydirt was Jahdae Walker.

 

 

Dallas Cowboys

CeeDee Lamb (DAL) vs. NYG: 8 Targets, 5 Receptions, 44 Yards, TD | 1 Carry, 0 Yards

I’ve been fading Lamb at cost all offseason. One week isn’t enough to start victory lapping that take, but when both he and Pickens are healthy, there just aren’t enough targets to go around. Dallas was playing from behind the entire game, but neither of them was able to get on the same page as Dak Prescott. Lamb put together a usable week with a one-yard TD grab, but the target share is concerning for a first-round pick. He is still the clear first option here, but needs more to pay off for fantasy owners.

 

George Pickens (DAL) vs. NYG: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 28 Yards

Pickens’s biggest games last season came when CeeDee was injured. He absolutely plays a crucial role, and this offense wouldn’t have functioned as well without him; the Lamb scoring drive was in no small part thanks to the 38-yard PI on Pickens. That unfortunately doesn’t mean he’s consistent for fantasy. The ceiling is there, with the number of deep shots he gets, but the floor isn’t. Pickens had an uncharacteristic drop in the fourth quarter as well.

 

Ryan Flournoy (DAL) vs. NYG: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 22 Yards

Jonathan Mingo (DAL) vs. NYG: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 10 Yards

Kavontae Turpin (DAL) vs. NYG: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 8 Yards

 

Detroit Lions

Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET) vs. NO: 14 Targets, 10 Receptions,  67 Yards, 2 TDs

St. Brown gets there with a ridiculous amount of volume and two touchdowns. He just chips away, a few yards at a time. His longest reception was a wide-open 19-yard TD catch in the third (which put the Lions up 3 scores at the time). Mr. Consistency also put away the game with a short 4-yard score in OT.

 

Jameson Williams (DET) vs. NO: 9 Targets, 4 Receptions, 45 Yards

Williams did not have a great showing. He dropped multiple passes that hit him in the hands, including a(n admittedly difficult) crucial third down drop that contributed to the Saints’ comeback. His 22-yard catch in overtime to set up the touchdown was his most impactful play of the game. The silver lining is how concentrated the targets are between the top two receivers.

 

Isaac TeSlaa (DET) vs. NO: 1 Target, 0 Receptions

 

Green Bay Packers

Christian Watson (GB) vs. MIN: 8 Targets, 6 Receptions, 147 Yards, 2 TDs

When this guy is healthy, his upside is just unmatched. An 81-yard TD on his first reception. 129 Yards and 2 TDs heading into the half. Jordan Love targeted him on another deep pass heading into the half, which should have been an interception if Isaiah Rodgers was able to hold on. Instead, the drive ended in Watson’s second TD. Then the Packers collapsed. Watson was the most effective piece of this offense, and they just stopped going to him.

 

Matthew Golden (GB) vs. MIN: 12 Targets, 6 Receptions, 95 Yards

Golden was the anti-Watson in this game. Almost nothing for the first half, then came alive in the second. Most of his production came from two long receptions. He was targeted in the end zone but wasn’t able to come down with it. Leading the team with double digit targets is incredibly encouraging for fantasy managers.

 

Jayden Reed (GB) vs. MIN: 7 Targets, 3 Receptions, 20 Yards

Jayden Reed also had a respectable target share, but the production just wasn’t there. Being the slot option on a team with Tucker Kraft will do that to you. Could be an interesting bench stash if Watson or Golden go down.

 

Bo Melton (GB) vs. MIN: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 10 Yards

Skyy Moore (GB) vs. MIN: 1 Target, 0 Receptions

 

 

Los Angeles Rams

Puka Nacua (LAR) vs. SF: 9 Targets, 5 Receptions, 74 Yards

Nacua didn’t have a great showing, but there is a lot to be excited about here. Last year’s second-leading receiver seems to have not lost a step, still dominating team targets and seemingly unbothered by his psoas. He also looked great with the ball in his hands, especially on his 41-yard catch and run. He was inches away from finding the end zone, which would have salvaged an otherwise middling day. I don’t know if it was the off-season, age, or the last-minute flight, but Matthew Stafford looked lost. I think it’s unlikely that he continues throwing up (the NFL community’s current favorite slander) meatball subs, and the Rams should be able to right the ship in the coming weeks.

 

Davante Adams (LAR) vs. SF: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 26 Yards

Adams was another victim of poor QB play, but there may be real cause for concern here. Last year’s production came from his absurdly high goal line touchdown rate. In this game, he only played ONE goal-line snap. This could be an overall McVay decision to shift away from 13-personnel at the goal line, or simply a mix-up due to it being too predictable after relying on it so heavily last season. If this trend continues, it does not look great for the once-great Adams’ fantasy owners.

 

Jordan Whittington (LAR) vs. SF: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 8 Yards

Konata Mumpfield (LAR) vs. SF: 1 Target, 0 Receptions

Tutu Atwell (LAR) vs. SF: 0 Targets, 0 Receptions

No receiver outside the top two saw any meaningful volume.

 

Minnesota Vikings

Justin Jefferson (MIN) vs. GB: 9 Targets, 8 Receptions, 92 Yards, 2 TDs, 2-PT Conversion

After spending an entire season stifled by JJ McCarthy, JJettas is back. Even though Kyler Murray went down early, Carson Wentz was able to get it done and lead the Vikings to a win. Jefferson was the only wide receiver who saw anything in this game where the Vikings scored 39 points. He may have gotten in for one more score, but was stopped by an uncalled facemask tackle that led to the Aaron Jones score. The first-round pick immediately returned value for fantasy owners.

 

Jordan Addison (MIN) vs. GB: 2 Targets, 0 Receptions

One of Addison’s two targets was in the red zone, but this minimal targeting does not bode well.

 

Jauan Jennings (MIN) vs. GB: 1 Target, 0 Receptions

Jennings’s only “target” was on Murray’s first-quarter interception.

New Orleans Saints

Chris Olave (NO) vs. DET: 13 Targets, 10 Receptions, 182 Yards

Tyler Shough looked horrendous in the first half, running for his life as the pocket collapsed on nearly every play. He adjusted in the second half, making sure to get the ball out quickly and taking shots downfield when he had time. A third- and fourth-quarter comeback was championed by guardian cap-wearing Olave, who seemed to somehow be wide open on every other play. He took a big hit on the 42-yard reception to set up the game-tying TD to Juwan Johnson, but came back in for overtime where he added another 20-yarder.

 

Devaughn Vele (NO) vs. DET: 9 Targets, 7 Receptions, 30 Yards, TD

Vele was the clear number two option behind Olave, taking over what I assume would have been Jordyn Tyson‘s role in this offense. He made a beautiful diving grab for his 1-yard TD on a pass that was slightly overthrown by Shough. Though the yardage was low, nine targets is nothing to sneeze at, and Vele could be an interesting waiver pickup while Tyson is on IR.

 

Bryce Lance (NO) vs. DET: 4 Targets, 3 Receptions, 42 Yards

Lance had a couple crucial first-down grabs. He was covered and wasn’t able to get what would have been the game-winning two-point conversion in OT.

 

New York Giants

Malik Nabers (NYG) vs. DAL: 9 Targets, 6 Receptions, 69 Yards

Nabers wasn’t confirmed to play in this game until a couple of hours before. Although he didn’t do much for fantasy owners, he led the team in targets. It was very clear that this passing attack is the Isaiah Likely and Nabers show (Nabershood?). As he ramps up, he should see an even higher target share. Jaxson Dart looked great as a passer as well as on the ground.

 

Darnell Mooney (NYG) vs. DAL: 2 Targets, 2 Receptions, 27 Yards

Malachi Fields (NYG) vs. DAL: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 25 Yards

Both Fields and Mooney were targeted mainly on deep sideline throws. The rookie was targeted more, and I expect his role to grow as the season goes on and he becomes more comfortable in the offense.

 

Philadelphia Eagles

Dontayvion Wicks (PHI) vs. WAS: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 73 Yards, TD

Though Wicks was the leading wide receiver, he wasn’t the leading pass catcher. He had a huge reception for 64 yards in the first quarter, and added the TD grab in the second. The pace of play for this team seemed a little slow.

 

DeVonta Smith (PHI) vs. WAS: 6 Targets, 3 Receptions, 53 Yards

Smith disappointed fantasy owners today, with low receptions, targets, and yards. He had a beautiful sideline toe-tap grab for 31 yards, which accounted for the majority of his production. It was just not a pass-heavy game from the Eagles.

 

Makai Lemon (PHI) vs. WAS: 4 Targets, 3 Receptions, -5 Yards

The rookie ended up with negative yards because of two targets behind the line of scrimmage. For now, Wicks and Dallas Goedert are clearly above Lemon in the pecking order, but that was to be expected with a rookie who missed time in training camp.

 

San Francisco 49ers

Demarcus Robinson (SF) vs. LAR: 3 Targets, 2 Receptions, 50 Yards, TD

Robinson led the team in yards, mainly off a 39-yard TD reception. With De’Zhaun Stribling likely missing some time, Robinson will likely continue to see some volume as the third option behind Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel, who both out-targeted him.

 

Mike Evans (SF) vs. LAR: 7 Targets, 6 Receptions, 49 Yards, TD

It was great to see Big M1k3 back in form, but come on – he HAS to get some variety in his first down celebrations. In classic Evans fashion, he came away with a one-on-one goal line TD grab as well. He’s seemingly unbothered by the injuries that were in most of his off-season headlines, and should lead this decimated receiving room going forward.

 

Deebo Samuel Sr. (SF) vs. LAR: 7 Targets, 6 Receptions, 48 Yards, TD | 1 Carry, 12 Yards

Deebo had himself a day in his first game back with San Francisco. He should also benefit from Stribling missing time and was the clear number two receiving option. I was a little concerned at first when an attempted screen pass bounced off his hands like they were made of bricks early in the second quarter, but that ended up being his only drop. Shanahan was still willing to use him as a change-of-pace rushing option as well, giving him the chance to rack up points on the ground as well.

 

De’Zhaun Stribling (SF) vs. LAR: 0 Targets, 0 Receptions

The off-season fantasy darling left the game early with a non-contact ankle injury. Hopefully the rookie can find his way back to the field soon.

 

Seattle Seahawks

Jaxon Smith-Njigba (SEA) vs. NE: 11 Targets, 8 Receptions, 122 Yards, TD

You gotta give it up for the Emerald City Route Artist. Even with Drew Lock under center for every drive after Sam Darnold went down on the first one, the reigning OPOY started off the year with a bang. JSN took it all the way on a fourth-quarter drive, making a man miss and weaving through defenders for a 45-yard touchdown. He was in for an even bigger day, but Lock missed him on a short end zone route where he beat his man. Though his touchdown ceiling may be limited with no Darnold, Smith-Njigba should still be great for fantasy owners based off volume alone.

 

Cooper Kupp (SEA) vs. NE: 3 Targets, 2 Receptions, 35 Yards

Kupp surprisingly seemed to be the number two option behind Njigba in this game. He came down with a frankly ridiculous one-handed catch even at 33 years old. He also waltzed in for an easy touchdown that was wiped out due to an illegal shift flag called on George Holani. Does this mean anything fantasy-relevant? Maybe. But 4 targets (including the one removed from penalty) isn’t anything to get excited about. I’m more interested to see if he continues being the next man up when Darnold returns.

 

Rashid Shaheed (SEA) vs. NE: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 4 yards

For as long as Darnold is out, Shaheed will continue to be a ghost. The short-yardage passing Lock honed in on doesn’t mesh (fantasy wise) with this field stretching speed demon.

 

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Emeka Egbuka (TB) vs. CIN: 6 Targets, 5 Receptions, 63 Yards

Egbuka started super hot, with three targets and two receptions on the first drive. He added three more receptions in the first half, then did his best Danny Phantom impression and went ghost. His performance wasn’t helped by four combined lost fumbles between Baker Mayfield and Bucky Irving, which killed multiple drives that had offensive momentum.

 

Chris Godwin Jr. (TB) vs. CIN: 4 Targets, 4 Receptions, 40 Yards | 1 Carry, 3 Yards

Most of Godwin’s production came from one 30-yard catch-and-run in the second quarter. He only saw one reception for a single yard in the second half.

 

Ted Hurst III (TB) vs. CIN: 3 Targets, 3 Receptions, 36 Yards

All three of the rookie’s receptions came on back-to-back-to-back plays in the fourth quarter. Interestingly, these were Hurst’s only receptions despite an 83% route share (per @DhananiZain on Twitter).

 

Tez Johnson (TB) vs. CIN: 1 Target, 0 Receptions | 1 Carry, -4 Yards

 

 

Washington Commanders

Antonio Williams (WAS) vs. PHI: 4 Targets, 4 Receptions, 64 Yards, TD

The rookie led the team in yards in his first game in the NFL and found the end zone in an attempted comeback. Jayden Daniels was struggling behind this Laremy Tunsil-less offensive line, but Williams was not the receiver most affected by it.

 

Stefon Diggs (WAS) vs. PHI: 9 Targets, 4 Receptions, 55 Yards, TD

Diggs, despite his age, finds success in his first game with Washington. Playing primarily out of the slot was beneficial for his game, nabbing a wide-open touchdown to keep the Commanders in the game. 9 targets is encouraging usage.

 

Terry McLaurin (WAS) vs. PHI: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 14 Yards

There were multiple plays where McLaurin was wide open down the field, but Daniels was swarmed before anything could develop. The Philly D-Line was not letting Daniels breathe. That, combined with matching up against Quinyon Mitchell, is a bad combination for fantasy production.

 

Jaylin Lane (WAS) vs. PHI: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 4 Yards

Dyami Brown (WAS) vs. PHI: 2 Targets

Series Navigation
Introduction
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends

Brett Ford

Writer, Editor and Podcast host for QBList.com, Ravens fan, Cool Dad