ClutchPoints
As the fantasy football season enters its stretch run, the margin for error shrinks. This is especially true when it comes to wide receiver decisions. Injuries, bye weeks, and inconsistent quarterback play have left fantasy managers scrambling to find stability at one of the most volatile positions in the game. Week 9 doesn’t make things any easier. Several elite receivers face tough defensive matchups while a few under-the-radar names are set to shine.
Choosing who to start and who to sit this week could be the difference between staying in playoff contention or falling behind. Note that DeVonta Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Jerry Jeudy won’t be available as their teams are on bye.
Let’s break down which wide receivers deserve a starting spot in your lineup, and which ones you’re better off avoiding in Week 9.
DJ Moore’s chemistry with Chicago’s passing attack is beginning to take shape again. In the Bears’ Week 8 loss to the Ravens, Moore hauled in four of seven targets for 73 yards. It was a reminder of how dangerous Moore can be when given the opportunity to stretch the field.
Now he has a favorable matchup against a Bengals defense that has allowed one of the league’s highest yards-per-reception rates. As such, Moore should have a strong outing. Expect Chicago to exploit Cincinnati’s secondary with intermediate and deep routes. That will make Moore a high-end WR2 with WR1 upside this week.
Keenan Allen’s Week 8 performance saw four catches for 44 yards. It wasn’t what fantasy football managers hoped for. Still, his role remains as secure as ever. The veteran continues to see a steady diet of targets in the Chargers’ offense. His route-running mastery still makes him a favorite of quarterback Justin Herbert.
Meanwhile, Tennessee’s defense has been gashed by wide receivers this season. They have allowed multiple 20+ yard plays almost every week. Expect Allen to bounce back in a big way as Herbert looks to reestablish rhythm through his most trusted pass-catcher. Consider Allen a reliable WR2 with strong PPR value against the Titans.
Jordan Addison continues to be one of Minnesota’s most consistent offensive weapons. Despite the Vikings’ offensive struggles in Week 8, Addison still managed to find the end zone. he caught three of four targets for 26 yards and a touchdown. That marks his second score in four games. It’s a promising sign as he continues to earn red-zone trust.
Now, the Vikings will face Detroit’s secondary, which has allowed big plays in bunches. With that, Addison is poised for another productive day. Quarterback JJ McCarthy (ankle) is expected to return. His deep-ball accuracy complements Addison’s skill set perfectly. Pencil him in as a mid-range WR2 with a safe floor and scoring upside.
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