Three Must-Start Players for Fantasy Football Week 3
Week three of the NFL season is already underway, with the Jets and Patriots game in the books, leading to a big win for New York. Now that stars like Breece Hall and Aaron Rodgers have made their mark, let's shift our focus to the must-start players for the rest of the week. Below are my top three picks for fantasy football managers looking to secure a victory in Week 3.
1. WR Ja'Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals
Chase is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, but he’s had a slow start in terms of fantasy production: 12.20 points in Week 1 and 7.50 in Week 2. He’s faced two tough defenses in the Patriots and Chiefs, but things should look up this week as the Bengals travel to Washington to face the Commanders. Washington has struggled to cover anyone, despite their 1-1 record. Just last week, Giants rookie WR Malik Nabers torched them for 10 catches and 127 yards, with more left on the table after a costly drop on fourth down.
Chase and Joe Burrow should feast on one of the worst passing defenses in the NFL. Washington ranks dead last in coverage according to PFF and is the fifth-worst scoring defense in the league. Expect a big day from Chase as the Bengals exploit these weaknesses.
2. RB Jerome Ford, Cleveland Browns
Jerome Ford has stepped up in a big way for the Browns following Nick Chubb’s season-ending injury. While no one can completely replace Chubb’s production, Ford has proven to be more than capable. This week, Ford faces the Giants, who have struggled mightily against the run, allowing 326 rushing yards over two games. Running backs Aaron Jones and Brian Robinson both had big days against New York, with Robinson even breaking two career-long rushes in the same game.
With Browns QB Deshaun Watson still struggling despite a Week 2 win, Cleveland may lean on the run game to establish their offense. Ford’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds to his value, making him a must-start option against the Giants' porous run defense.
3. WR Brandon Aiyuk, San Francisco 49ers
Brandon Aiyuk hasn’t had the start to the season fantasy managers were hoping for, recording just six catches for 71 yards over two games. However, this week presents a golden opportunity for Aiyuk to break out. The 49ers will be without several key players, including running back Christian McCaffrey, fellow wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and tight end Travis Kelce. This leaves Aiyuk as the focal point of San Francisco's passing attack, alongside Jauan Jennings.
Aiyuk will face a Rams defense that has struggled to contain big plays. Last week, rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. had a 100+ yard, two-touchdown performance against them, following Jameson Williams’ 100+ yard outing in Week 1. Aiyuk is primed for a breakout game and is a must-start in all formats.