Fantasy football managers everywhere are asking the same question heading into the second week of the NFL season: who should I start week 2? After a dramatic opening week filled with breakout stars, surprising injuries, and underwhelming performances, Week 2 offers a chance to adjust lineups and gain an early edge.
The key is knowing which players to trust, which to bench, and which sleepers might outperform expectations. Below is a complete breakdown of the best starts, sits, and strategies to guide your fantasy lineup decisions.
Table of Contents
Quarterbacks to Start in Week 2
Justin Herbert – Herbert opened the season with over 300 passing yards and three touchdowns, showing command of the Chargers’ offense. He now faces a defense that struggled to contain passing attacks in Week 1, making him a top QB1 option.
Dak Prescott – While his Week 1 numbers weren’t eye-popping, the advanced stats showed accuracy and efficiency. Facing a defense that allowed multiple passing scores last week, Prescott has a good chance to bounce back.
Other Strong Options: Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, and Joe Burrow all remain must-starts regardless of Week 1 performance.
Running Backs You Can Trust
Derrick Henry – Henry looked dominant in Week 1, handling a heavy workload and powering through defenders. His Week 2 matchup favors the run, and he’s a locked-in starter.
Christian McCaffrey – The most consistent fantasy back remains a clear RB1. Even in games where touchdowns aren’t guaranteed, his rushing attempts and receiving targets provide a safe floor and high ceiling.
Bijan Robinson – The Falcons leaned heavily on Robinson in the opener, and his versatility as a runner and pass-catcher makes him a must-play in Week 2.
Wide Receivers to Start
Tyreek Hill – Despite the Dolphins’ slow offensive start, Hill’s speed and target share keep him elite. He can break a game open at any moment, and his matchup is favorable.
Ja’Marr Chase – Chase delivered in Week 1 and faces a secondary that has already shown coverage issues. Expect another high-volume game.
CeeDee Lamb – Prescott’s go-to receiver is a strong option this week. Lamb’s ability to create separation and earn consistent targets makes him a WR1 every week.
Justin Jefferson – Jefferson started hot in Week 1 and will continue to be one of the safest fantasy plays available.
Tight Ends Worth Starting
Dalton Kincaid – He was heavily involved in Week 1, especially in red-zone opportunities. That usage trend makes him a strong play for Week 2.
Harold Fannin Jr. – The rookie surprised with his Week 1 performance, earning steady targets. With his role expanding, he’s a great upside option for managers needing tight end help.
Players to Avoid in Week 2
While knowing who to start is crucial, it’s equally important to know who should stay on your bench.
- Austin Ekeler – Facing a tough defensive line, his efficiency and volume may be limited. He’s riskier than usual in Week 2.
- Noah Fant – Even though he scored in Week 1, his overall usage wasn’t high. Touchdown dependency makes him too risky to trust.
- Inconsistent Flex Options – Certain wide receivers with low target shares or running backs in committees should remain on the bench until roles stabilize.
Sleepers and Flex Plays
Every week, a few players step up beyond expectations. These are worth considering if you’re searching for a high-upside flex or injury replacement.
- Keon Coleman (WR, Jets) – Showed strong chemistry with his quarterback in Week 1 and could continue to see solid volume.
- Ricky Pearsall (WR, 49ers) – With quarterback changes and injuries affecting San Francisco, Pearsall may see increased opportunities.
- Rookie Running Backs – Several rookies around the league received unexpected carries in Week 1. Keeping an eye on snap counts could give you a cheap flex option in Week 2.
Key Injuries to Monitor
- Brock Purdy (QB, 49ers) – Sidelined with a toe injury, opening the door for Mac Jones to start. This shift impacts 49ers wideouts and tight ends.
- Xavier Worthy (WR, Chiefs) – Out with a shoulder injury. Expect more targets for the Chiefs’ veteran receivers.
- Other Day-to-Day Players – Always check Sunday morning injury reports before finalizing your lineup. A player trending toward limited snaps can sink your week.
Strategy Tips for Week 2 Lineups
- Trust the Studs – Don’t bench proven stars after one bad week. Talent and volume typically win out over time.
- Matchup Advantage – Target players facing weak defenses, especially secondaries that allowed explosive plays in Week 1.
- Balance Risk and Safety – Use your flex spot to chase upside if you’re projected to trail, or plug in consistent producers if you’re favored.
- Check Game Scripts – Teams projected to play from behind may pass more, boosting wide receivers and tight ends. Run-heavy game scripts benefit workhorse backs.
Example Start/Sit Decisions
If you’re torn between players, here are some common comparisons for Week 2:
- Justin Herbert vs. Tua Tagovailoa – Herbert’s matchup is more favorable. Start Herbert.
- Derrick Henry vs. Rhamondre Stevenson – Henry is the safer play given workload and matchup.
- Tyreek Hill vs. Amon-Ra St. Brown – Both are strong options, but Hill’s explosive potential makes him slightly more appealing.
- Dalton Kincaid vs. Kyle Pitts – Kincaid has the more secure role right now.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy football success in Week 2 depends on making the right calls early. When deciding who should I start week 2, focus on players with consistent roles, favorable matchups, and high usage. Avoid chasing Week 1 outliers unless their opportunities look sustainable.
Stay alert for injury updates, trust your studs, and don’t hesitate to plug in sleepers who are trending upward. The right decisions now can set the tone for the rest of your season.
Who are you debating starting this week? Share your toughest lineup choices in the comments, and let’s talk through them.