Top Fantasy Football Pickups for NFL Week 2: Juwan Johnson and Rams Defense Shine

Discover the best late-week fantasy football pickups for NFL Week 2, featuring Juwan Johnson and the Rams defense, to strengthen your lineup.

Quarterbacks

Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers (17.9% rostered; vs. Seahawks)

Aaron Rodgers silenced critics with a stellar Week 1 performance, throwing four touchdowns against the Jets. His efficiency (22 of 30 passing) and Arthur Smith's play-calling, which included boot schemes, provided clean throwing platforms. While a repeat of his 25-point game is unlikely, Rodgers' play-action and quick-game concepts should exploit the Seahawks' defense.

Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons (26.5% rostered; at Vikings)

Michael Penix Jr. impressed in Week 1 with 24.02 points against the Buccaneers, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His rushing touchdown and 21 yards on the ground add value, especially if wide receiver Drake London (shoulder) is active. Penix's ability to distribute the ball to multiple playmakers could exploit a Vikings defense that allowed 24.2 points to Caleb Williams.

Running Backs

Trey Benson, Arizona Cardinals (54.5% rostered; vs. Panthers)

Despite James Conner leading the Cardinals' backfield, Trey Benson's nine touches and a 52-yard carry in Week 1 highlight his big-play potential. Facing a Panthers defense that allowed 143 rushing yards to Travis Etienne Jr., Benson is a valuable deeper-league option.

Kenneth Gainwell, Pittsburgh Steelers (7.4% rostered; vs. Seahawks)

Kenneth Gainwell out-snapped rookie Kaleb Johnson in Week 1, sharing the backfield with Jaylen Warren. While his 23 total yards weren't eye-popping, Gainwell's pass-catching ability and expected backfield split with Warren make him a solid PPR option.

Wide Receivers

Olamide Zaccheaus, Chicago Bears (0.5% rostered; at Lions)

Olamide Zaccheaus emerged as a reliable target for Caleb Williams in Week 1, catching four passes for 42 yards. His seven targets were second-most on the team, and Ben Johnson's scheming could further exploit the Lions' man-coverage.

Wan'Dale Robinson, New York Giants (30.6% rostered; at Cowboys)

Wan'Dale Robinson, despite an ankle injury, is a solid PPR option if active. His six catches for 55 yards in Week 1 and the absence of starting nickel corner DaRon Bland could boost his production against the Cowboys.

Tight End

Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints (34.0% rostered; vs. 49ers)

Juwan Johnson tied his career-high with eight catches in Week 1, amassing 76 yards on 11 targets. As an underneath/quick-game target, Johnson's chemistry with Spencer Rattler and the Saints' high passing volume make him a strong play against the 49ers' zone defense.

Defense/Special Teams

Los Angeles Rams (51.3% rostered; at Titans)

The Rams defense, with three sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception in Week 1, is a prime pickup against the Titans and rookie quarterback Cam Ward. Expect the Rams to exploit Tennessee's protection schemes with loaded fronts, creating favorable pass-rush matchups.

What to Read Next

The Strategic Patience: Jaxson Dart's Development Behind Russell Wilson in the NFL
NFL

The Strategic Patience: Jaxson Dart's Development Behind Russell Wilson in the NFL

Exploring the strategic decision by the New York Giants to develop rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart behind veteran Russell Wilson, drawing parallels to successful NFL quarterback trajectories.

Cardi B and Stefon Diggs Announce Pregnancy: A New Chapter for the NFL Star and Grammy-Winning Rapper
NFL

Cardi B and Stefon Diggs Announce Pregnancy: A New Chapter for the NFL Star and Grammy-Winning Rapper

Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B and NFL star Stefon Diggs announce they are expecting a child, marking a new chapter in their lives.

Robert Saleh's Defensive Closers Propel 49ers to Dominant 2-0 Start in 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Robert Saleh's Defensive Closers Propel 49ers to Dominant 2-0 Start in 2025 NFL Season

Robert Saleh's defensive strategy and key players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner have been pivotal in the San Francisco 49ers' strong 2-0 start to the 2025 NFL season.

From Fan to Teammate: Puka Nacua and Davante Adams' Dynamic Partnership in the Rams' Offense
NFL

From Fan to Teammate: Puka Nacua and Davante Adams' Dynamic Partnership in the Rams' Offense

Explore how Puka Nacua and Davante Adams have formed a formidable partnership in the Los Angeles Rams' offense, blending youth and experience under Sean McVay's guidance.

Chicago Bears' Defensive Struggles Continue as They Face the Dallas Cowboys
NFL

Chicago Bears' Defensive Struggles Continue as They Face the Dallas Cowboys

The Chicago Bears' defense faces significant challenges as they prepare to host the Dallas Cowboys, following a disappointing performance against the Detroit Lions.

The High-Stakes Game: Cincinnati Bengals' Pass-Heavy Strategy and the Risk to Joe Burrow
NFL

The High-Stakes Game: Cincinnati Bengals' Pass-Heavy Strategy and the Risk to Joe Burrow

Exploring the Cincinnati Bengals' reliance on a pass-heavy offense and the inherent risks it poses to quarterback Joe Burrow, including recent injuries and team strategies.

Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor Lead Colts' Explosive Offense to a Dominant 2-0 Start
NFL

Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor Lead Colts' Explosive Offense to a Dominant 2-0 Start

The Indianapolis Colts, led by Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor, have ignited their offense, securing a strong 2-0 start in the 2025 NFL season.

NFL Week 3 Insights: Aaron Rodgers' Impact, Bengals' Strategy Without Joe Burrow, and Quarterbacks Under Pressure
NFL

NFL Week 3 Insights: Aaron Rodgers' Impact, Bengals' Strategy Without Joe Burrow, and Quarterbacks Under Pressure

Explore the latest NFL Week 3 updates: Aaron Rodgers' performance, Bengals' plans post-Joe Burrow injury, and quarterbacks facing potential benching.

Week 3 NFL Fantasy Football Matchup Rankings: Key Players and Strategies
NFL

Week 3 NFL Fantasy Football Matchup Rankings: Key Players and Strategies

Discover the top NFL fantasy football matchups for Week 3, featuring insights on key players like Javonte Williams and DK Metcalf, and strategic advice for your lineup decisions.

The Tush Push Phenomenon: Why the NFL Remains Divided on This Game-Changing Play
NFL

The Tush Push Phenomenon: Why the NFL Remains Divided on This Game-Changing Play

Explore why the NFL is split on the tush push, a highly effective short-yardage play mastered by the Philadelphia Eagles, and why other teams hesitate to adopt it.

2025 NFL Playoff Predictions: Updated Odds and Divisional Races
NFL

2025 NFL Playoff Predictions: Updated Odds and Divisional Races

Explore the latest 2025 NFL playoff projections, divisional races, and Super Bowl LX odds based on ESPN's Football Power Index.

Falcons' Rookie Defense Shines: A New Era of NFL Dominance
NFL

Falcons' Rookie Defense Shines: A New Era of NFL Dominance

The Atlanta Falcons' rookie defenders are making waves in the NFL, showcasing exceptional talent and teamwork in their recent victory over the Minnesota Vikings.

Lamar Jackson's MVP-Level Performance: A New Era for the Baltimore Ravens
NFL

Lamar Jackson's MVP-Level Performance: A New Era for the Baltimore Ravens

Lamar Jackson's stellar start to the 2025 NFL season has the Baltimore Ravens poised for greatness. Discover how his MVP-level play is redefining the game.

Christian Watson's Road to Recovery: When Will the Packers' Star WR Return from ACL Injury?
NFL

Christian Watson's Road to Recovery: When Will the Packers' Star WR Return from ACL Injury?

Christian Watson discusses his recovery from an ACL injury, his contract extension, and his expected return timeline with the Green Bay Packers.

Tyler Smith: The Future of the Dallas Cowboys Offensive Line
NFL

Tyler Smith: The Future of the Dallas Cowboys Offensive Line

Tyler Smith has become the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line, securing a record-breaking contract and aiming for a Hall of Fame legacy.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.