NFL Week 3 Fantasy Insights: Smith-Njigba's WR1 Potential and Key Player Strategies

The Eagles' Passing Game: A Work in Progress

The Philadelphia Eagles' passing game has struggled early in the season, ranking 31st with only 238 yards through two weeks. The Week 2 tape against Kansas City reveals a lack of vertical schemes, with an over-reliance on slants and unders. To unlock their potential, the Eagles must diversify their route tree for A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, leveraging formations and pre-snap movements to create big plays and catch-and-run opportunities. Setting up Jalen Hurts to throw to the second and third levels of the field, as seen in the Super Bowl, could be the key.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba: A Rising Star

Jaxon Smith-Njigba has made an impressive start to the season, commanding a 42.3% target share in the Seahawks' first two games. With 17 receptions on 22 targets for 227 yards, Smith-Njigba's route running and competitiveness after the catch stand out. While he needs to increase his red zone presence to achieve WR1 status, his volume and production suggest he could finish as a top-10 wide receiver if his touchdown numbers rise.

Justin Herbert: A QB1 Contender

Justin Herbert has been a standout performer, averaging 23.3 points per game with at least two touchdown throws and 30 rushing yards in both games. Despite a tough Week 3 matchup against the Broncos, Herbert's accuracy (72.1% completion rate) and mobility make him a fringe QB1 candidate. His ability to drive the ball and create with his legs adds to his fantasy appeal.

TreVeyon Henderson: Patience Required

TreVeyon Henderson has underperformed with an average of 8.4 PPG, falling short of expectations set by his summer ADP jump. While he needs to improve in pass protection to secure a third-down role in the Patriots' offense, there's still room for him alongside Rhamondre Stevenson. Henderson's dynamic playmaking ability makes him a player to watch, but fantasy managers should exercise patience.

Subpar Defenses in Dallas and Chicago

The Week 3 Cowboys-Bears matchup features two defenses struggling to find their identity. Dallas ranks 29th with 6.4 yards allowed per play, while Chicago is last at 7.1 yards. Both defenses are giving up over 30 points per game, making this a high-scoring affair. Dak Prescott and Caleb Williams are top-10 QB options, and George Pickens gains flex appeal in this matchup. Betting the OVER on the 50.5 total points is a tempting proposition.

Tyler Warren: Maximized in Indy

Colts head coach Shane Steichen has effectively utilized Tyler Warren in the route tree, resulting in double-digit points in each of his first two games. With at least seven targets in each game and a 55.5% YAC rate, Warren is a multilevel target for Daniel Jones. He's an upper-tier TE1 for Sunday's game against Tennessee.

Rome Odunze: Climbing the Rankings

Rome Odunze has emerged as the Bears' No. 1 receiver, averaging 23.8 PPG with at least one touchdown and nine targets in each game. His detailed route running and increased volume in Ben Johnson's system make him a WR2 candidate this week, especially against a struggling Dallas defense.

Matthew Stafford: Declining Mobility

Matthew Stafford's mobility has declined due to lower-body/hip tightness, likely stemming from a back injury during camp. While he can still deliver accurate throws from a clean platform, his reduced movement ability is a concern for fantasy managers rostering Puka Nacua or Davante Adams.

Jake Browning: A Waiver Wire Option?

In deeper leagues, Jake Browning could be a waiver wire option for those rostering Joe Burrow. Browning's aggressive throwing style and 19.1 PPG average in 2023 make him an intriguing pick in a pass-heavy Bengals system. However, his inconsistency and three interceptions last week highlight the risks.

Quinshon Judkins: A Promising Debut

Quinshon Judkins made a strong debut with 10.1 points against the Ravens, showcasing his north-south running style and burst. If you drafted Judkins late, he could become a potential RB2/flex option. Keep an eye on his performance as the season progresses.

Tetairoa McMillan: Encouraging Usage

Tetairoa McMillan has lived up to expectations, averaging 13.9 PPG with 19 targets over two games. His ability to run deep in-breakers and win isolation matchups makes him a WR2 candidate for Bryce Young in Carolina.

Colston Loveland: Upside with Patience

Colston Loveland has run 37 routes but has only two receptions on three targets. While his traits and quickness are promising, fantasy managers in 12-team leagues may need to cut him loose if injuries arise. However, holding onto Loveland could pay off once he adjusts to the pro game in Ben Johnson's offense.