The exciting return of the NFL season is finally here, and we have a full Sunday of football ahead. With 13 games available on DraftKings and Fanduel, there are plenty of excellent choices for your Week 1 NFL DFS team.
Now, let’s highlight a few standout players for Week 1. Keep in mind that these recommendations may change as new information becomes available before Sunday’s games, but it’s still wise to have a plan in place.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – JANUARY 30: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs fires up the crowd after the team was introduced before in the AFC Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 30, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
From exciting quarterbacks who can score big with their rushing skills, underappreciated running backs who can break through defenses and receivers who are eager to catch every pass, Mike Lockhart has crafted a list of players who will make an impact in Week 1. Don’t overlook the elite tight ends who can make a big impact, whether they score touchdowns or not. And keep an eye on the defense and special teams units, especially when they face inexperienced quarterbacks in the opening week. They could be game-changers.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – OCTOBER 02: Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles yells during pregame against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lincoln Financial Field on October 02, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
In any case, let Lockhart share some budget-friendly daily fantasy football options for Week 1, considering the offseason changes and the possibility of Travis Kelce missing the opening game.
THURSDAY NIGHT
Sam Laporta
Drafted in the second round to replace TJ Hockenson, he’s expected to see a lot of targets throughout the season. Consider him as a buy-low option in daily fantasy.
Jerrick McKinnon:
With 9 touchdown catches last season, McKinnon could be a valuable asset if Travis Kelce is out. He might get plenty of looks, especially in the red zone.
Noah Gray
If Kelce is sidelined, Gray could become the starting tight end. He’s an inexpensive short-term option, and tight ends have been productive recently.
SUNDAY
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – OCTOBER 10: Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after throwing a touchdown to Alexander Mattison #25 during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
Kirk Cousins vs. Buccaneers
Cousins, a cheaper week one quarterback, tends to perform well in 1 pm home starts. Facing a new quarterback in Tampa Bay’s defense, the Minnesota offense could see more opportunities.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 20: Jamaal Williams #30 of the Detroit Lions celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the third quarter at MetLife Stadium on November 20, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Jamaal Williams vs. Titans
Williams could be an overlooked player this week, with Alvin Kamara suspended and Kendre Miller dealing with an injury. If he gets a lot of carries, he could be a valuable, budget-friendly running back option.
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – SEPTEMBER 20: Aaron Jones #33 of the Green Bay Packers wears a sombrero after scoring a touchdown against the Detroit Lions during the second half at Lambeau Field on September 20, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
Aaron Jones @ Bears
Chicago struggled against the run last season, and Green Bay may opt for a run-heavy offense. Jones is expected to have a significant role in this matchup.
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 04: Zay Flowers of Boston College participates in the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 04, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Zay Flowers vs. Houston
The first-round draft pick for Baltimore, Flowers, is set to make an immediate impact. He’s an affordable option with the potential to shine against Houston.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – DECEMBER 17: K.J. Osborn #17 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts during the third quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 17, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images)
KJ Osborn vs. Buccaneers
With Justin Jefferson as the top salary receiver this week and rookie Jordan Addison generating buzz, Osborn, the number two receiver for the Vikings, is a cost-effective choice who could deliver big in week one.
DETROIT, MI – AUGUST 23: T. J. Hockenson #88 of the Detroit Lions celebrates his catch for the first down during the preseason game at Ford Field on August 23, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images)
TJ Hockenson vs. Tampa Bay
Although not cheap, Hockenson is a solid option, especially against a Tampa Bay defense that struggled against tight ends last season. Consider stacking Vikings players for a potentially strong fantasy performance.
LANDOVER, MARYLAND – JANUARY 09: Cardboard cutouts are seen in a general view as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play the Washington Football Team during the second quarter of the NFC Wild Card Playoff Round at FedExField on January 09, 2021 in Landover, Maryland. No fans were permitted due to health concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Washington D/ST vs. Cardinals
Washington’s strong defensive line faces a struggling Cardinals offense. With the potential for sacks and poor quarterback play, Washington’s defense could be a top-scoring option.
