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Dynasty $250 - FFL: Week 5 | NFL: Week 5

Commanders star QB Jayden Daniels (knee) to start vs. Chargers

Fri Oct 3 7:33pm ET
Field Level Media

Commanders star quarterback Jayden Daniels will be back in the starting role after a two-game injury absence when Washington visits the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

Daniels has been sidelined since sustaining a sprained left knee in Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers.

Washington coach Dan Quinn told reporters on Friday that Daniels would be the starter. The team also released the news later on social media.

Daniels was a full practice participant all week and will wear a brace on the knee on Sunday. He had badly wanted to return this week as he is from San Bernardino, located about 75 miles away from where the Chargers play in Inglewood.

Daniels has passed for 433 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 85 yards this season.

Last season, Daniels was a force by completing 69 percent of his passes for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also rushed for 891 yards and six touchdowns, securing 55 first downs on 148 attempts while winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Marcus Mariota started the past two games for the Commanders (2-2). He passed for 363 yards, three touchdowns and one interception and added 60 rushing yards and one score.

Washington will be without receivers Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/knee). McLaurin is missing his second straight game and Brown will be sidelined for the third consecutive contest.

Commanders guard Sam Cosmi (knee) also was ruled out.

The Chargers will be without rookie tackle Joe Alt (ankle) and receiver Derius Davis (knee). Guard Mekhi Becton (concussion), and tight ends Will Dissly (knee) and Tucker Fisk (toe) are questionable.

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The Paur Report

Starts, Sits, Sleepers: Week 5

Player Notes
J.K. Dobbins Oct 4 6:40am CT
J.K. Dobbins

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins has been continuing to redeem his career in Denver after scoring a touchdown or rushing for 100 yards in each of his first four games this season. While the Eagles profile as a defense that is better at stopping the run than the pass, expect Dobbins to be called upon to continue impressing as the early-down back. Broncos rookie running back RJ Harvey's role could continue to grow in this offense, but, notably, Dobbins has averaged a second career-best 5.67 yards per carry so far this season. Fantasy managers should continue to start Dobbins with confidence as a solid RB2 with weekly touchdown upside as he comes in as RotoBaller's RB22 for Week 5.

From RotoBaller

Troy Franklin Oct 4 6:30am CT
Troy Franklin

After posting a dud in week 3 after a breakout game in Week 2, Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin led the team with eight targets in Monday's win over the Bengals. With the Philadelphia Eagles having a middle-of-the-pack pass defense (ranked 15th), Franklin can continue to be a focal point. At the same time, the Eagles are forced to focus on Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has seemingly favored Franklin as the WR2 on the offense, considering he has the same amount of targets as Sutton on the season. In what could be a defensive game for both sides, feel confident in starting Franklin as a WR3/ FLEX option as he comes in as RotoBaller's WR35 for Week 5.

From RotoBaller

Bo Nix Oct 4 5:30am CT
Bo Nix

Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton will need a good game out of quarterback Bo Nix this week to best the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles defense. After coming off a 326-yard outing last week, Nix should keep his confidence rolling in a game that will be a great test for him this season. The Eagles are 15th in passing defense, allowing 215 yards per game through the air, while 21st against the run, allowing 126 rushing yards per game. With bye weeks and injuries, Nix is a solid start and should produce this week against the Eagles. As RotoBaller's 10th-ranked quarterback this week, feel free to start Nix with confidence as a low-end QB1.

From RotoBaller

Khalil Shakir Oct 4 5:20am CT
Khalil Shakir

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir has been the definition of a boom-or-bust fantasy option through the first four weeks of the season, posting point totals of 9.4, 1.7, 12.5, and 15.4. His limited usage in the offense--typically fewer than six targets per game--makes him heavily touchdown dependent, which creates weekly volatility for fantasy managers. While Shakir's big-play ability gives him upside, it's difficult to predict when those breakout games will come, making him far more valuable in best ball formats than in standard redraft leagues. Heading into Week 5, Shakir should be treated as a mid-level flex option, ranking behind more reliable volume-based receivers such as Wan'Dale Robinson and Ladd McConkey. Managers seeking a safe floor may want to look elsewhere, but those chasing upside can still take the gamble.

From RotoBaller

Keon Coleman Oct 4 5:20am CT
Keon Coleman

Buffalo Bills rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman may lead the team in total targets through four weeks, but that number is misleading, as nearly half of those opportunities came in the season opener. Since Week 1, Coleman has settled into a smaller role, recording just three catches on four targets in each of the last three games. While he has been reliable when called upon, his inability to create big gains after the catch has limited his fantasy impact. For now, Coleman is best left on benches in most formats, with only low-end flex appeal if his target share rebounds. Fantasy managers should monitor his usage closely in Week 5, but until he's featured more consistently in the passing game, his value remains capped.

From RotoBaller

Ashton Jeanty Oct 4 5:10am CT
Ashton Jeanty

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty erupted in Week 4 against the Bears, racking up 155 total yards and three touchdowns in a true breakout performance. Remarkably, that single-game yardage output surpassed his combined production from the first three weeks, signaling a potential turning point for the rookie back. With quarterback Geno Smith struggling to protect the football, the Raiders are expected to emphasize Jeanty in both the ground game and short passing attack heading into a Week 5 matchup with the Colts. Indianapolis boasts the ninth-ranked run defense and a disruptive unit that sits fourth in the league in turnover percentage, but Jeanty's dual-threat skill set gives him a reliable path to volume and scoring opportunities. Fantasy managers should view Jeanty as a strong RB1 moving forward, with a chance to become the centerpiece of the Raiders' offense.

From RotoBaller

Jakobi Meyers Oct 4 5:10am CT
Jakobi Meyers

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers has seen his production dip in recent weeks, as younger playmakers in the offense continue to carve out larger roles. In Week 4 against the Bears, Meyers caught just four of seven targets for 30 yards, with his longest reception going for only 10 yards. The outing marked his third consecutive game with declining yardage totals, raising concerns about his ceiling moving forward. Despite those struggles, Meyers still led the team in targets last week, showing he remains a trusted option for Geno Smith in the passing game. While the lack of big plays limits his upside, his steady volume keeps him relevant as a flex play, particularly in PPR formats. Fantasy managers should view Meyers as a safe but low-ceiling option heading into Week 5.

From RotoBaller

James Cook Oct 4 5:00am CT
James Cook

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III draws a difficult matchup in Week 5 against a Patriots defense that has surrendered just 77.5 rushing yards per game, tied for second-fewest in the league. While Cook may find tough sledding between the tackles, his versatility as a receiver should keep him firmly in the RB1 mix. Last week against Baltimore, he managed only 44 yards on the ground but offset that with 58 yards through the air, showing his ability to remain productive even when the rushing lanes are clogged. In what projects to be one of Buffalo's biggest games of the season, the Bills will likely lean on Cook in multiple ways to generate offense. Fantasy managers should continue to view him as a high-end starting option in both standard and PPR formats.

From RotoBaller

Jude McAtamney Oct 4 4:50am CT
Jude McAtamney

New York Giants kicker, Jude McAtamney, should remain on the waiver wire in all fantasy formats despite a seemingly favorable matchup against the New Orleans Saints. The international kicker was perfect in his 2025 debut last week, making two short field goals and an extra point while filling in for the injured Graham Gano. However, his roster spot is not secure as he competes with Younghoe Koo, and there are too many unknowns about his ability to handle pressure or long-distance kicks. While the Saints' defense allows the most points per game in the league (30.3), creating a high-scoring environment, McAtameny's uncertain role makes him too risky to trust.

From RotoBaller

Geno Smith Oct 4 4:50am CT
Geno Smith

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith has endured a rough start to the 2025 campaign, throwing a league-high seven interceptions in just four games. Despite flashes from the Raiders' rushing attack, including Ashton Jeanty's breakout performance last week, Smith continues to force throws into tight coverage, resulting in costly turnovers. Head Coach Pete Carroll has maintained confidence in his veteran signal-caller, but with Kenny Pickett waiting on the bench, the leash may not be endless if the mistakes persist. A tough Week 5 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts looms, and fantasy managers should approach Smith with extreme caution. At this point, he should only be considered in superflex or very deep 16-plus team formats, as his turnover issues make him a risky play in standard leagues.

From RotoBaller

Josh Allen Oct 4 4:40am CT
Josh Allen

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen continues to justify his elite fantasy status, entering Week 5 as the top-scoring player at his position. Allen has been electric through the air and on the ground, and he'll look to keep rolling in Sunday's matchup against the division rival New England Patriots. While New England's defense could provide a stiffer test than some of Allen's previous opponents, his dual-threat ability and chemistry with tight end Dalton Kincaid make him nearly matchup-proof. The duo's growing red zone connection has been a major boost for fantasy managers, and Allen remains an automatic QB1 start in all formats. Expect another strong outing from one of the game's premier fantasy weapons.

From RotoBaller

Theo Johnson Oct 4 1:30am CT
Theo Johnson

New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson is a waiver-wire candidate with upside for his Week 5 matchup in New Orleans. The rookie is already heavily involved with a 74.9% snap share and has quickly built a rapport with quarterback Jaxson Dart, catching Dart's first career touchdown pass in last week's win. With the season-ending injury to top receiver Malik Nabers, Johnson's target share is set to increase, particularly as a safety blanket for his rookie quarterback. He faces a Saints defense that presents an excellent opportunity, as they have allowed the second-most passing touchdowns in the league (9) and rank 30th in the NFL in red zone defense.

From RotoBaller

Jalin Hyatt Oct 4 12:50am CT
Jalin Hyatt

New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt is a deep-league lottery ticket who will finally get an opportunity to prove his worth in Week 5 against the Saints. With Malik Nabers out for the year, the third-year speedster will assume the WR3 role, and his familiarity with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart from second-team reps could lead to immediate targets. Despite having zero fantasy points this season, Hyatt's world-class speed makes him an intriguing desperation play against a vulnerable New Orleans secondary. The Saints have been susceptible to big plays, allowing the second-most passing touchdowns in the NFL (9), creating a scenario where Hyatt could finally break loose for a long score.

From RotoBaller

Darius Slayton Oct 4 12:40am CT
Darius Slayton

New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton enters Week 5 as a high-upside, boom-or-bust flex option with an expanded role in the offense. Following the season-ending injury to Malik Nabers, Slayton now steps in as the clear WR2 and primary deep threat for rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. While his season statistics are modest, ranking him as the WR78, his 15.0 yards per reception average highlights his ability to make big plays. This week, he faces a Saints defense that has been vulnerable to explosive plays, having allowed the second-most passing touchdowns (9) in the league, making them the 19th-friendliest defense to fantasy wide receivers and creating a perfect opportunity for Slayton to connect on a long score.

From RotoBaller

Wan'Dale Robinson Oct 4 12:30am CT
Wan'Dale Robinson

New York Giants wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is one of the week's most intriguing fantasy plays following the season-ending injury to Malik Nabers. Now the primary target for rookie QB Jaxson Dart, Robinson, who already ranks as the WR29, will see a significant volume increase from his already impressive 27 targets and 76% snap share. He faces a New Orleans Saints secondary that presents a favorable matchup for a team's top option. While the Saints are 13th in passing yards allowed, they have been susceptible to scoring, giving up the second-most passing touchdowns (9) in the NFL and ranking 19th against fantasy wide receivers.

From RotoBaller

Michael Carter Oct 4 12:20am CT
Michael Carter

Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter is expected to see a significant workload in Week 5 after Trey Benson (knee) was placed on injured reserve. "He's played a lot of snaps for us over the last couple years and he's going to now," general manager Monti Ossenfort said regarding Carter's expected workload. Indeed, Carter played roughly 75 percent of the offensive snaps between Weeks 17 and 18 last season, rushing for 5.4 yards per carry in one of those games and scoring a touchdown in the other. He should face plenty of competition from Emari Demercado, but the general manager's comments indicate that the Cardinals could be headed for more of a true backfield split than people originally expected, even after Carter logged just one touch through the first four weeks of the season. Demercado is a high-end RB3/flex option, while Carter is best viewed as a mid-to-low RB3/flex.

From RotoBaller

Cam Skattebo Oct 4 12:20am CT
Cam Skattebo

New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo is set up for another high-volume workload against the New Orleans Saints in Week 5. With Tyrone Tracy Jr. still sidelined, Skattebo has cemented his role as the team's workhorse, commanding a 70.8% timeshare last week and ranking as the RB20 on the season with an average of 11.97 fantasy points per game. He faces a Saints defense that allows the 24th-most fantasy points to running backs but has significant vulnerabilities that a high-volume back can exploit. New Orleans ranks 30th in the NFL in both points allowed per game (30.3) and red zone touchdown percentage (76.9%), setting the stage for Skattebo to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

From RotoBaller

Tyler Lockett Oct 4 12:10am CT
Tyler Lockett

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Tyler Lockett has seen an appealing snap and target share over the last few weeks, and he could be headed for an expanded role in Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals. Lockett is currently preparing for the matchup as the Titans' No. 3 receiver, as he has been doing ever since the season opener, but he could jump to second on the depth chart if Calvin Ridley (knee, elbow), who is questionable, doesn't suit up. Ridley has been underwhelming this year but would still vacate around 50 snaps, many of which would likely go to Lockett. There's a direct relationship between the two players' snap shares; every time Ridley has played at least 85 percent of the snaps, Lockett plays below 60 percent. Last week, when Ridley played just 54 percent, Lockett saw his snap share jump to 72 percent. Having someone like Lockett on the field is a good idea for the Titans, who have youth elsewhere in Cameron Ward, Elic Ayomanor, and Chig Okonkwo. A reliable veteran presence with sure hands in the short and medium passing games, Lockett has 12 targets but just six catches through his first four games in Tennessee. A Ridley absence could push Lockett closer to six or seven targets with at least a few receptions, therefore giving him some WR3/flex appeal in the deepest leagues. On the other hand, if Ridley plays, Lockett would probably see around just 50 percent of the snaps, which isn't enough to get him on the fantasy radar.

From RotoBaller

Jaxson Dart Oct 4 12:00am CT
Jaxson Dart

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, has an excellent matchup in Week 5 after a solid NFL debut, where he led the Giants to a 21-18 victory over the Chargers. His dual-threat ability was on full display as he threw for 111 yards and a touchdown while adding 54 yards and another score on the ground. This week, he faces a Saints defense that, despite being sixth-best in passing yards allowed per game (177.0), has been extremely vulnerable to fantasy quarterbacks, ranking as the 28th-best defense against them by allowing an average of 20.6 fantasy points per game. New Orleans has surrendered nine passing touchdowns, the second-most in the league, and their 30th-ranked red zone defense could provide ample scoring opportunities for the rookie.

From RotoBaller

Julius Chestnut Oct 4 12:00am CT
Julius Chestnut

Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut could be headed for a reduced workload in Week 5 despite a favorable matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Chestnut has operated as a backup to Tony Pollard through the first four weeks of the season. While his usage has been relatively modest given that Pollard leads all NFL running backs in snap share, Chestnut has still been his backup and did see the field in every game, logging five total carries. That marginal usage could drop to no usage as soon as Tyjae Spears (ankle) returns to game action. Spears is currently on injured reserve but has been designated to return and is questionable for Week 5. Chestnut's already limited opportunity share would surely disappear entirely as soon as another reliable, proven player like Spears is added to the backfield. If Spears plays Sunday, Chestnut, 24, might not touch the ball. Even if he remains on IR, though, the Sacred Heart product is due for just a couple of touches and remains off the fantasy radar.

From RotoBaller