Our analysts reveal their top fantasy football takes for Week 9 to help you make lineup decisions.
For more sit-start advice, check out our rankings hub.
Breece Hall continues his rise
Breece Hall had a tough week running the ball, but he made up for it as a receiver. His opportunity share has been increasing over the last three games, and he had a season-high workload last week after the Jets’ bye. Hall is now fully recovered from knee surgery and doesn’t have to worry about Dalvin Cook stealing carries. Despite having the 29th most carries, he currently has the fourth-most breakaway runs of the season. He has been averaging 6.0 yards per carry at home, and this week he faces a Chargers defense that allows the second-most receiving yards to running backs. Hall is projected to score twice on Monday night and finish as this week’s top fantasy back. — Dalton Del Don
Garrett Wilson excels despite circumstances
Even without Aaron Rodgers, Garrett Wilson has been delivering a solid season that justifies his ADP. He is on track for over 1,100 receiving yards and has caught at least seven balls in three of his last four games. This week, the Jets will face the Chargers, who have the most generous pass defense in the league, allowing 8.4 yards per attempt and nearly 300 passing yards per game. Wilson, an unstoppable receiver, is set up for a monster week with his usual 10-12 targets. Expect him to surpass 100 yards and find the end zone. — Andy Behrens
Both Colts RBs thrive as top-15 options
There is plenty of room for both Jonathan Taylor and Zack Moss in the Colts backfield. Since Week 5, the Colts rank eighth in rush attempts and have averaged 142.3 rushing yards per game (third most) with the highest rushing touchdown count in the league. In addition to the volume, they have been highly efficient, averaging 4.95 yards per carry as a unit (fourth highest). This week, they will face the Carolina Panthers, who have allowed over 32 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs since Week 5. The Panthers also have a low defensive success rate and give up more rushing yards than expected. It’s the perfect opportunity for a big game from this running back duo, especially considering that the Panthers have allowed multiple backfields to gain 175 scrimmage yards and score two or more touchdowns in seven games this season. — Kate Magdziuk
Adams has been frustrated lately with his lack of touchdowns, but his performance last Monday showed promise despite inaccurate passes from Jimmy Garoppolo. The Raiders made significant changes after the game, firing their head coach and general manager, as well as benching Garoppolo. Although Aidan O’Connell, the new quarterback, is not a miracle worker, Adams is expected to receive a high volume of targets. He is a must-play for fantasy managers and a great choice for DFS and props. — Scott Pianowski
After returning in Week 7, Johnson’s involvement in the Steelers’ offense increased significantly in Week 8. He played almost all of the snaps and received the highest target share. He also had the only end-zone target for Pittsburgh. This week, he will face the Titans’ 22nd-ranked secondary. I have high confidence that he will score his first touchdown since 2021. — Sal Vetri
C.J. Stroud bounces back at home
C.J. Stroud is poised for another 300-yard game, especially since he will be playing on the fast track of NRG Stadium where he has had success this year. He will also be targeting Nico Collins, who has had his best games at home. The Buccaneers, their upcoming opponent, have allowed a significant amount of passing yards since Week 6. Stroud is projected to throw for over 300 yards and at least two touchdowns, making him a top-10 QB option this week. — Jorge Martin
ohn Smith is your NFL insider, providing in-depth coverage of football’s biggest league. With a passion for the game and a keen eye for statistics, John delivers game analysis, player profiles, and breaking news to keep readers updated on all things NFL.