FFIDP Instant Reaction & Waivers Week One (1) “The Monster”

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The return of the king


Welcome to "The Monster". The vast majority of you are already familiar with this article but if you aren't this is where we come every Thursday morning to read a bible length article about every IDP relevant player and their performance, playing time, etc from the previous week of games. We look at things like snaps, role, production, opportunity, injuries, replacements for those injuries (waivers) and real football performance since that can lead to huge changes in all of those factors listed above (see Jaylon Smith).

If things didn't go how we thought they would we'll try and figure out why that was, if someone we've never heard of went off for a massive week we'll find out if they're worth picking up on waivers or if they're just barely playing and just lucked into a sack or splash play and it likely won't happen again any time soon. We'll follow up on weird or iffy situations with information from beat writers and whatever else I can find to connect the dots. The idea behind this article is that the "why" is just as important as the "what".

I am most certainly not an analyst, this isn't my job, and while our site does pay it's writers this is just another hobby for me. So I won't be following the standard fantasy football article rules and I will keep this fun.

I'm just another degenerate like you are. I've been playing IDP fantasy football for the better part of two decades and am working on crossing the 30 championship threshold this season so while I don't call myself a professional I surely do know how to win these leagues and will mix in some of the things I've learned over those years in an effort to further make this article a key piece of your weekly information that helps you take home your titles this season. More qualifications and credentials are available in the author bio at the bottom.

You'll understand by the end of the article if your bathroom break at work is long enough to get through it. And if you decide this article isn't for you that's cool too, thank you for giving it a try and we hope you'll be able to find what you need elsewhere on the site or with our team.

We all have the freedom to choose who we trust and follow for our information and really all I can say is the team we have here and the people we work with in the community are the best of the best and our trophy cases back that up. Regardless thanks for giving this article a shot today. Alright let's get into it.


The Week One Questions

We got things started for the 2021/22 season last Thursday night in Tampa Bay where my Cowboys surprisingly were able to not only hang with the world champs but damned near won the thing. We got answers to the lingering linebacker situation in Dallas and some clarity on the safety situation as well, we'll definitely look at all of that plus try and figure out who will play corner for the Bucs this week after their secondary was annihilated by the injury grim reaper.

From there we'll head to Atlanta/Philly where a little birdy (Jon Macri) told me the Eagles linebackers situation isn't as cut and dry as we thought it might be. We'll check that out and find out if Josh Sweat did in fact get a bump in playing time like many had predicted in the offseason. The Steelers got revenge on the Bills from last season and we'll look at things like the Devin Bush & Joe Schobert playing time break down among others in that matchup.

The Bengals edged out the Vikings in OT and apparently there was a Logan Wilson sighting, that can't be true he's been irrelevant since the Carter administration so we'll have to confirm that and check in on Danielle Hunter in his first game back in over a year, is he back to parting opposing quarterbacks buttcheeks like Moses parted the Red Sea? (Spoiler, yes).

The 49ers got up big on the Lions then nearly blew it at the end, we got our first look at Nick Bosa and Dee Ford in quite some time plus a possible injury to Dre Greenlaw so we'll have a look at all of that plus check in on everyone's least favorite IDP defense, the Lions. Was Tracy Walker able to return to relevancy and ideal playing time? Is Jamie Collins still a thing? Was the Alex Anzalone hype for real? Is Dan Campbell a crazy person? We'll find out.

From there we head to Tennessee where we got an unexpected blood bath at the hands of Chandler Jones and company, what was supposed to be one of the best games of the day was over by the third quarter. What happened to Zaven Collins? Did Isaiah Simmons actually play enough to sustain the excellent week one production was saw? Are the rumors that Rashaan Evans might be displaced by David Long real? What do those two cornerback corps look like after surprise injuries and retirements? Many important questions to be answered in that one, and answer them we will.

The Seahawks blew away the Colts and we got a quiet game from Darius Leonard, we'll try and figure out what happened with that and check in on Jordyn Brooks and see if he's playing enough to be a thing this year.

The Chargers edged out the Washington Football Team and we will get a look at who the other linebacker to own shares of beyond Kenneth Murray is in LA. Sam Darnold got his revenge and we got our first look at Jaycee Horn in real game action, how did he do and was Jermaine Carter worth a pickup as the supposed other inside linebacker in Carolina? As for the Jets I was told CJ Mosley would be playing this week, I can't confirm that because I only saw four combined tackles and I'd bet my internal organs that New York lost the time of possession battle and that defense spent plenty of time on the field, we'll figure out what's going on there for sure.

The Jaguars and Texans played a game this week, moving on.

Ahh I kid. We'll have a looksee at our buddy Myles Jack and see if Damien Wilson is really a thing plus finally get some answers on that Jacksonville safety situation. Neither cornerback corps was set in stone heading into this past week so we'll get some answers there as well.

The Chiefs came roaring back to edge out the Browns and we'll get a look at both of those extremely iffy linebacker units and try and find some clarity there if possible plus check out those offseason rumors that Chris Jones was a defensive end now. And where was Frank Clark? Probably trying to acquire military grade weaponry at a black market would be my initial guess.

The Patriots and Dolphins played out a close one and we'll get a look at both of those always fluctuating linebacker corps also plus maybe get some idea of who is playing corner for the Patriots until Stephon Gilmore comes back in a few weeks.

The Saints blew away the Packers in the biggest week one surprise and there were strange things everywhere in this box score, we'll start at the top with this one and look for answers including the very relevant Krys Barnes or DeVondre Campbell question. The Broncos turned the Giants into toast and we all saw the reports that Jabrill Peppers barely played, we'll see what's going on with that, it can't be something as easy as he's actually not good but we'll check that theory as well.

We ended the week with the Bears and Rams playing a hard hitting affair Sunday night in front of the entire nation. Was Aaron Donald still the president of the UMCCTTC and is Roquan Smith on his way to LB1 this season? Who is going to play corner for the Bears? Questions questions. And finally we'll end with a look at the Ravens & Raiders, the final week one game for the 2021/22 season. What does the Ravens cornerback situation look like without Marcus Peters? Was Patrick Queen able to improve his abysmal year one PFF grade and who is actually playing linebacker or safety for the Raiders?

All that and more in this week one edition of the Monster. Buckle up and tell the boss you ate Taco Bell last night, you're going to need a longer than usual bathroom break for this little gem right here. It's a new season, it's week one, it's the Monster. Let's go.


The Week One Answers

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Carlton Davis and Trevon Diggs both put on a show last Thursday Night

Cowboys @ Bucs

Dallas Cowboys

Produced as expected: Micah Parsons (LB) Anthony Brown (CB) Trevon Diggs (CB) Keanu Neal (LB) *somewhat* DeMarcus Lawrence (DE)

Flash in the pan: Jourdan Lewis (CB) Jayron Kearse (S) played 75% and 62% of snaps respectively in week one, while Lewis did end up with a late pick to save his box score he's probably not a great streaming corner option anywhere but the deepest of leagues due to his playing time so far.

Kearse is part of the mess that is the Cowboys safety corps where no one saw anything north of 85% of snaps this week. This kind of thing happened all across the league and is looking like a trend with the slightly longer season upon us, rotations everywhere seem to be the order of the day for week one. 

Possible waivers: Anthony Brown (CB) played 100% of snaps and recorded eleven combined tackles on the day, playing every snap and being opposite of the insanely talented Trevon Diggs (CB) likely means he'll be targeted early and often all season and makes a terrific corner stream in the correct matchup, the Chargers this week is the correct matchup.

Misc notes: Leighton Vander Esch (LB) and Jaylon Smith (LB) played 22% and 25% of snaps respectively in week one and as predicted by many in IDP Twitterland it was Parsons and Neal as the two Cowboys linebackers to own shares of so far this season. That can and probably will change at some point especially considering Keanu Neal (LB) does get dinged more often than most but for now it's not safe at all to play either LVE or Smith.

Donovan Wilson (S) did play 85% of snaps in week one but only recorded one QB hit on the day and no other stats. It's only week one but with Wilson, Kearse, Kazee and even Darian Thompson (barely) getting into the mix the safety situation here is anything but settled at the moment. If you have the room keep Wilson on the bench and give it some time, maybe we can get back to last seasons level of production or some semblance of it but for now it's an imperfect option at best.

Randy Gregory (DE) was in for 57% of snaps this week but it was a quiet week one for him, he likely remains a decent option in deeper leagues who will have some nice games at some point this season but he's not a top tier option currently by any means. Everything else looked normal here for the Cowboys in week one, no huge surprises beyond the linebackers (which wasn't a surprise to anyone paying attention this offseason) and the safeties which could work itself out eventually. Moving on.

***UPDATE*** DeMarcus Lawrence (DE) broke his foot in practice Wednesday, will be out indefinitely. Maybe Gregory will see more playing time sooner rather than later.

Tampa Bay Bucs

Produced as expected: Lavonte David (LB) Devin White (LB) Carlton Davis (CB) Antoine Winfield Jr (S) Jason Pierre Paul (DE) Shaq Barrett (EDGE)

Flash in the pan: Jamel Dean (CB) and Ross Cockrell (CB) played 90% and 55% of snaps respectively this week, plenty for Dean but not ideal at all for Cockrell so we can pass on him right off the rip. The early injury to Sean Murphy Bunting (CB) led to increased snaps for Jamel Dean (CB), more on this below, what initially looked like a short term thing now appears to be a legit waivers situation.

Mike Edwards (S) and Andrew Adams (S) both saw more than usual playing time with Jordan Whitehead (S) injured and out for week one, as of the time of writing the latest news was Whitehead is "hopeful" to practice for week two so it looks like there's a decent chance he's back against Atlanta and we can ignore this situation, more below just in case though.

Possible waivers: There are some possible corner waivers here with the injury fallout from week one, Jamel Dean (CB) looks like the biggest beneficiary with the news that Sean Murphy Bunting (CB) is on IR with an elbow injury, with the Falcons in town this week that makes a decent corner stream for sure.

I didn't see if it was the short or long term IR for Bunting so we'll have to keep tabs on this one but Dean looks like a streaming CB option for now at least and if last week was any indication then Ross Cockrell (CB) will see increased snaps as well but likely not enough for a stream anywhere but the deepest and darkest of leagues.

Mike Edwards (S) did see 82% of snaps this week helping to fill in for the injured and out Jordan Whitehead (S) but neither Edwards or Andrew Adams (S), just 13% of snaps, had an impressive box score so that along with the news that Whitehead is hopeful to practice this week equals a likely pass on Edwards as a waiver wire safety option, we pass on Adams automatically for that (lack of) playing time.

Misc notes: Vita Vea (DT) did not record any stats in the box score but absolutely dominated in this game and was awfully close to a sack or splash play, he was in for 64% of snaps and makes a nice defensive tackle two or three in deeper leagues, he will make noise sooner rather than later.

N'Damakong Suh (DT/DE) was in for 63% of snaps and had a quiet week one, he remains a nice defensive tackle two or three in deeper leagues despite getting up there in years and will have some nice games this season. William Gholston (DE) was a thing at certain points last season, he only played 38% of snaps in week one and didn't do much at all in the box score, he'll need to play more than that for a recommendation in even the deepest and darkest of leagues. Everything else was business as usual here, this remains an excellent real football and IDP defense all around that's loaded with stars.

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Deion Jones was back to LB1 form in week one against the Eagles

Eagles @ Falcons

Philadelphia Eagles

Produced as expected: Eric Wilson (LB) Darius Slay (CB) Javon Hargrave (DT) Josh Sweat (DE) *somewhat*

Flash in the pan: Avonte Maddox (CB) and Alex Singleton (LB) played 62% and 60% of snaps respectively this week, for Maddox that's a personal decision but for me I never settle for corners, streaming or otherwise, that don't play every snap since there are so many available each week. Those extra snaps are often the difference between another tackle or two and those points can be the difference between winning and losing, availability is the best ability.

As for Singleton it was expected that his playing time would take a slight hit this season but this really lowers what we can expect from him if this kind of playing time is the new normal, part of this could be that Philly got up and stayed up all game and forced the Falcons to abandon the run as they attempted to catch up and as a result the Eagles played more defensive backs overall but regardless there were warning signs for Singleton before this so I'm looking for other options if it were me.

Hassan Ridgeway (DT) only played 36% of snaps and lucked into a sack, not likely that will happen again any time soon and that's not enough playing time for an already inconsistent IDP position, he isn't a legit waiver option playing just over a third of defensive snaps a game.

Possible waivers: Javon Hargrave (DT) and Steven Nelson (CB) though both seem like very nice waiver options this week. Hargrave is often forgotten but always solid, he was in for 56% of snaps this week and had a monster game including two sacks with all the fixings that come with them, if you need defensive tackle help this is a beautiful option just like it was last season and the one before that, medium to deeper leagues only though.

Nelson was in for every single snap and recorded six combined tackles and also with a PFF grade of 67.1 he sits in that nice area of good enough to keep his job and snaps but not so good that no one throws at him, if the matchup is correct this could be a nice corner stream option.

Misc notes: Derek Barnett (DE) and Brandon Graham (DE) played 46% and 50% of snaps respectively while Josh Sweat (DE) was in for 54%, the most of any Eagles defensive end in week one and Ryan Kerrigan (DE) clocked in at 47% of snaps for week one. It appears to be a true rotation so pick your poison, for me that's Sweat but to each their own. Arguments can be made for whoever your favorite is of the bunch. The point is as of week one there is no clear winner in playing time and therefore opportunity, yet anyways.

Anthony Harris (S) played all 100% of snaps and recorded only four combined tackles but the weird thing, according to NFLGSIS anyways, I'm sure PFF would have more information about this, is that it looks like he's the only listed safety with any significant snaps for week one, the next is Marcus Epps (S) with just 11% played, not sure if that really means they only went with one safety and had more corners deployed, with the late news that Rodney McLeod (S) would miss week one it's likely just a short term thing but we'll keep an eye on it going forward.

TJ Edwards (LB) may have been a thing last season but with only 40% of snaps played in week one it doesn't look like he will be any time soon this season. No other significant notes in Philly, nice win for them in week one.

Atlanta Falcons

Produced as expected: Deion Jones (LB) Foye Oluokon (LB) Erik Harris (S) AJ Terrell (CB)

Flash in the pan: Duron Harmon (S) and Jacob Tuioti Mariner (OLB) played 79% and 35% of snaps respectively this week, while that could be enough for Harmon in super deep leagues, that decision is ultimately yours, the 35% for Mariner is most definitely not enough anywhere ever. He has never been good and this is an outlier sack splash play that happened on far less than ideal playing time and likely won't happen again any time soon, pass.

Possible waivers: Erik Harris (S) and Steven Means (LB/DE) played 92% and 83% of snaps this week, Harris has been a nice waiver wire safety in the past and is back in that position again here in Atlanta. Decent option in medium to deeper leagues for a safety three type player. For Means the interesting thing is he is designated as a defensive end in the majority of leagues I've seen, if he is playing some off ball linebacker or is an outside linebacker that's interesting.

But even if he's just a mildly productive guy who had a nice hot streak towards the end of last season and is now playing a ton of snaps for someone designated defensive end in most places that playing time is excellent and is the first step towards production, not a bad idea at all in deeper leagues if designated as a defensive end.

Fabian Moreau (CB) played 92% of snaps and is the cornerback two here beside AJ Terrell (CB), if the matchup is correct the playing time is acceptable and he had three solos and a pass defense, roughly nine points in most of my leagues, for week one which isn't terrible at all if you need a corner option in deeper leagues.

Misc notes: Richie Grant (S) only played 8% of snaps this week so he isn't a "thing" yet. We'll keep an eye on it, bench or taxi squad for now.

Grady Jarrett (DT) was in for 76% of snaps this week but had a quiet week one, we know he's capable of really nice production so I'm not panicking here at all, especially if he's your defensive tackle two or three in medium to deeper leagues, we wait. He should be fine. Not much else to see here this week, there aren't a ton of great IDP options in Atlanta in the first place, we'll see what next week brings.

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Cameron Heyward had a beautiful stat line in week one

Steelers @ Bills

Pittsburgh Steelers

Produced as expected: Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) Devin Bush (LB) Cameron Sutton (CB) Terrell Edmunds (S) Cameron Heyward (DT) Joe Haden (CB) TJ Watt (EDGE)

Flash in the pan: James Pierre (CB) only played 36% of snaps this week but managed seven combined tackles and a pass defended, that type of production won't be reliable with that little playing time, pass for now, if his snaps increase we can reevaluate.

Possible waivers: Not really a waiver option but could be available in shallower leagues, Terrell Edmunds (S) was hovering around 75% or 80% of snaps for the majority of last season but started out the gate playing all 100% of snaps in week one, he recorded five combined tackles, four of them solo, and would make a decent bye week stab or short term injury replacement in those shallower leagues.

The part that perked my ears up was the week one increase in snaps from last season's average, if he has improved enough to be the second full time safety here that will increase his value and week to week productivity.

Misc notes: Tre Norwood (DB) is literally listed a a defensive back, he played 80% of snaps and recorded six combined tackles in week one, I could do some research on him but I don't like the Steelers and don't care enough to, this exists though so I'm mentioning it. He had six combined tackles in week one so if you find this interesting feel free to investigate further.

Joe Schobert (LB) played only 78% of snaps in week one while Devin Bush (LB) was in for 86%, no idea why that happened like it did, it's less than ideal for the billions of Schobert shareholders out there, we'll keep an eye on it going forward. With only six combined tackles, four of those solo, the lack of expected full 100% of snaps playing time is something most Schobert shareholders weren't counting on this season but here we are. Maybe start looking for another option, many chefs in the kitchen here anyways.

Alex Highsmith (EDGE) and Melvin Ingram (EDGE) played 54% and 64% of snaps respectively in week one, so the week one battle goes to Ingram for now. We'll see how this plays out going forward but it looks like beyond TJ Watt (EDGE) it will be a rotation with neither Highsmith or Ingram truly owning that playing time as of yet. Everything else here looked normal, Fitzpatrick continues to blow my mind with the consistency in recent times and this continues to be an excellent real life defense with quite a few nice IDP pieces as well.

Buffalo Bills

Produced as expected: Taron Johnson (CB) Jordan Poyer (S) Micah Hyde (S) Levi Wallace (CB) Matt Milano (LB) Tremaine Edmunds (LB) *somewhat*

Flash in the pan: Mario Addison (DE) was only in for 45% of snaps in week one which isn't great and means he's only playable in the absolute deepest of leagues, the lucky sack was probably an outlier and isn't likely to occur again any time soon.

Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

Misc notes: The entire secondary, all three IDP relevant corner plus both safeties, AND both inside linebackers played 100% of snaps this week which is beautiful for us as IDP degenerates. White, Wallace and Johnson every snap, Milano and Edmunds every snap, so no worries there.

The pass rush was a true rotation for the Bills in week one. Jerry Hughes (DE) and Gregory Rousseau (DE) saw the most playing time with 57% and 52% of snaps respectively in week one while Mario Addison was only in for 45%.

AJ Epenesa (DE) was the only real loser of this initial rotation for the Bills with just 33% of snaps played in week one which obviously isn't enough for any kind of reliability this season if that continues to be the case, step one play enough to score IDP points, step two score IDP points, step three profit.

Ed Oliver (DT) was in for 62% of snaps this week and recorded three solo tackles, one tackle for loss and one QB hit on the day which isn't terrible at all for defensive tackle on a no splash play day. We'll see if this is the year he finally takes that step forward everyone has been hoping for, the playing time is decent so far and week one was acceptable, we'll keep an eye on it. Not much else to see here in week one, the Bills get Miami in week two I believe so we're in for another tough matchup for this Bills defense. Onwards.

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New season, same productive and reliable Eric Kendricks

Vikings @ Bengals

Minnesota Vikings

Produced as expected: Eric Kendricks (LB) Harrison Smith (S) Danielle Hunter (DE)

Flash in the pan: Nick Vigil (LB) was in for 100% of snaps and had a monster of a box score but was only in there at all because Anthony Barr (OLB) was injured and out this week, his normal playing time and production would only be a small fraction of what we saw week one all things being normal and equal.

Possible waivers: Nick Vigil (LB) is a short term waiver wire linebacker option though for as long as Anthony Barr (OLB) continues to be injured and out of the lineup, you'll have to track that if you want to use or continue to use Vigil.

Bashaud Breeland (CB) was in for 88% of snaps in week one and saw the most playing time at corner after Patrick Peterson (CB). He recorded seven combined tackles and a tackle for loss and is clearly the lesser of two evils in regards to who opposing teams will be targeting this season for Vikings corners. If the matchup is right this looks like a decent corner stream.

Micheal Pierce (DT) was in for 59% of snaps and had a massive two sack game, he is designated a nose tackle which is traditionally not super IDP relevant but so far so good, can't hurt if you need defensive tackle help in medium to deeper leagues.

Xavier Woods (S) was in fact the other full time safety for the Vikings playing 100% of snaps, he recorded five combined tackles and one pass defended which isn't terrible at all if you need safety help in deeper leagues.

Misc notes: Dalvin Tomlinson (DT) and Sheldon Richardson (DT) played 68% and 32% of snaps respectively this week, somewhat surprising to those of us who thought Richardson would have more of a role on this defense, just some information, do with it what you will.

DJ Wonnum (DE) and Everson Griffen (DE) played 68% and 41% of snaps this week respectively and neither did much at all, beyond Danielle Hunter (DE) my interest in the pass rush here on this defense is nonexistent. Wonnum is currently playing enough though to be an option if you need it in deeper leagues. That's pretty much it for the Vikings defense, nice to see Hunter back in action and we'll see what happens with Anthony Barr (OLB) and those are the big things heading into week two.

Cincinnati Bengals

Produced as expected: Jessie Bates (S) Vonn Bell (S) Logan Wilson (LB) Chidobe Awuzie (CB)

Flash in the pan: Germaine Pratt (LB) and Mike Hilton (CB) played 45% and 80% of snaps respectively in week one, for Pratt that is clearly outlandish and bloated production based off extremely unideal playing time, not sustainable, pass.

As for Hilton that's your call, for me I know I can find those extra 20% of snaps somewhere on waivers in an ideal matchup and I'll always take that extra playing time, sure the actual number of snaps played for each defense will vary from week to week but if a player is in for every snap that's all you can really control, the rest is dictated by gamescript and gameflow, put yourself in the best position possible and hope it works out.

BJ Hill (DT) only played 29% of snaps in week one and lucked into a couple sacks with all the trimmings, not likely to happen again any time soon especially considering how little he's playing overall, pass on this.

Possible waivers: Logan Wilson (LB) and Larry Ogunjobi (DT) played 87% and 71% of snaps respectively this week and both had really solid games. Wilson makes a nice linebacker three in medium to deeper leagues and Ogunjobi has been an excellent IDP defensive tackle in the past and could be so again here in Cincy this season, grab him wherever you need defensive tackle help in leagues of all shapes and sizes.

Eli Apple (CB) was in for 99% of snaps and had a really nice box score, if the matchup is correct so is the playing time and level of talent, not good enough to be avoided by opposing quarterbacks and coaches but not bad enough to be benched or replaced (yet anyways). This is the way.

Misc notes: Sam Hubbard (DE) and Trey Hendrickson (DE) played 87% and 82% of snaps in week one but neither did much of note, Hubbard at least got you three combined tackles while Hendrickson produced precisely nothing.

That's funny I was told you could punt defensive line in favor of grabbing linebackers and grab guys like Hendrickson off waivers or much deeper in drafts and that the production would be comparable, to each their own I guess but my many many shares of Myles Garret (DE), Danielle Hunter (DE) and company worked out (more than) just fine this week and we're already seeing plenty of perfectly acceptable waiver wire linebackers heading into week two. Positional scarcity, it's a thing my friends.

DJ Reader (DT) was in for 58% of snaps in week one and didn't register any stats in the box score, he was a fad a couple seasons ago but that time has long since past, doesn't look like there's been a return to glory, yet anyways, in Cincy. Beyond that things looks like business as usual here, the safeties were the stars and that was the main storyline, with Logan Wilson (LB) we may finally have the first IDP relevant linebacker here in many seasons, we shall see, moving on.

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Warner and Greenlaw put up some serious week one numbers

49ers @ Lions

San Francisco 49ers

Produced as expected: Fred Warner (LB) Dre Greenlaw (LB) Jaquiski Tartt (S) Jimmy Ward (S) Nick Bosa (DE)

Flash in the pan: Azeez Al Shaair (LB) played 78% of snaps but I'm guessing most of those were garbage time due to the blowout and/or injury replacement for Dre Greenlaw (LB) who left this one with an injury. Regardless I'll need to see it at least another week or two before I buy it because right now I don't, especially with Greenlaw being "day to day", it's Warner and Greenlaw and that's it for 49ers IDP relevant linebackers.

***UPDATE*** Dre Greenlaw (LB) out 4-6 weeks after surgery, Azeez Al Shaair (LB) appears to be a thing, grab him now and we'll figure it out later, better to have the option and not need it then the reverse***

Dee Ford (DE) and Kentavius Street (DE) played 33% and 46% of snaps respectively this week and while Dee Ford (DE) is a household name and could end up playing some decent snaps at some point this season right now neither is playing enough for anything resembling consistency, pass on both for now for less than ideal playing time reasons.

Possible waivers: Jason Verrett (CB) and K'Waun Williams (CB) appear to be the best two streaming corner options here, Deommodore Lenoir (CB) did play the most snaps at corner this week for the 49ers but it looks like this was a substitute situation due to the blowout, I at least recognize the first two names, this guy not so much. The safe play here is to see another week or two of this and then figure it out but if you're pressed for corner options this week the first two are my bet so far.

Misc notes: Dre Greenlaw (LB), as mentioned above, is considered "day to day" so we can probably skip the shenanigans with trying to find the waiver wire linebacker move here, if he's not back this week it will surely be the week after with that prognosis so even if there was a move it would be extremely short term.

The 49ers defense got some early rest as this one was a blowout with some late shenanigans that made the final score look like a valiant comeback by the Lions came just short, I didn't get to see this game but I doubt it came that close. As a result many of the snap percentages this week look way off and we still don't have a totally "normal" look at this defense yet, hopefully they play a real team this week and it's a close game that shows us what we need to know and we can reevaluate heading into week three. We'll see.

Detroit Lions

Produced as expected: Tracy Walker (S)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Will Harris (S) and Amani Oruwariye (CB) both played 100% of snaps this week and both had nice box scores, Harris could be decent safety help if you need it and with the Okudah injury (below) Oruwariye remains the last standing corner option if the stream looks good, which it does against Devante Adams (WR) and the pissed off Packers this week.

Misc notes: Jeff Okudah (CB) is now injured and out for the season, that reduces the already super small number of IDP relevant options even farther. Less than ideal.

Jamie Collins (LB) and Alex Anzalone (LB) played 67% and 100% of snaps respectively this week but neither had an impressive box score despite the 49ers putting up plenty of offense all game long, also less than ideal. Anzalone is at least playing enough, the situation with Collins is not looking great at all so far, I'd start looking for other options if you're in a position where you're relying on him currently.

Romeo Okwara (DE) and Trey Flowers (DE) played 96% and 89% of snaps respectively in week one and while neither did much with them that is quite a bit of playing time, if I had either as a defensive end two preferably three in deeper leagues I'd just live with it for now, they'll produce eventually, they have in the past and sure as heck play enough to do so again, remain calm for now.

Tracy Walker (S) is back to playing nearly every snap, 98% in week one, and the production has returned along with the playing time, seven solo tackles plus a sack and all the trimmings this week which is excellent. The Walker apocalypse is possibly over, thank the fantasy Gods. There's really nothing else of interest here in regards to this defense, this is one of the "cursed" IDP defenses so I'll spend as little time here as possible, moving on.

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Simmons and Chandler Jones put a hurting on the Titans week one hopes and dreams

Cardinals @ Titans

Arizona Cardinals

Produced as expected: Isaiah Simmons (LB) Chandler Jones (EDGE) Budda Baker (S) Byron Murphy (CB)

Flash in the pan: Micheal Dogbe (DE) only played 20% of snaps and lucked into a sack, not even remotely enough playing time for that to happen again any time this century, pass.

Possible waivers: Zaven Collins (LB) or Jordan Hicks (LB), this situation is still in flux, if you can grab one or the other you've got a coin flip shot at a full time inside linebacker that could have really nice production this season, more below.

Misc notes: As mentioned above the shenanigans with Zaven Collins (LB) and Jordan Hicks (LB) continues, this offseason many smart people believed it would be Zaven Collins (LB) as the other full time inside linebacker along with Isaiah Simmons (LB) but in week one it was Jordan Hicks (LB) playing 95% of snaps while Collins was only in for 34%.

That won't last forever in all likelihood and Hicks is traditionally made of glass, there's also a theory out there that this was done on purpose with a gameplan of shutting down Derrick Henry (RB) only being able to be carried out with Hicks instead of Collins, no idea if that's true but regardless Collins has the draft capital and Hicks is gone (contract) after this season anyways, worst case sit him in dynasty and wait. In redraft if you have the bench space hang onto Collins in the (somewhat likely) event that Hicks gets dinged like he used to all the time in Philly.

JJ Watt (DE) was in for 72% of snaps in week one but had a quiet box score, he'll be fine, more to come, patience is a virtue.

Isaiah Simmons (LB) was in for 91% of snaps in week one and had a really nice box score, there's some concern about where he's lining up and what his overall role is but the way I see it he's already playing a ton more than he did last season and we know he's talented and can produce, you already paid for him and he put up great week one numbers, I'm going to keep it going until he gives me a real reason to pull the plug.

Jalen Thompson (S) was in for 84% of snaps and appears to be the other full time (or close to it) safety next to Budda Baker (S), he didn't do much with that playing time but this has been a thing since last season (which Thompson will be the other safety) and it looks like we may have an answer, for now at least, not really an option unless in a super deep league. Everything else looked good here, Byron Murphy (CB) is the best streaming CB option with Marco Wilson (CB) currently the second option, if the matchup looks good those are your guys at the moment, we'll keep an eye on it as that develops.

Tennessee Titans

Produced as expected: Janoris Jenkins (CB) Rashaan Evans (LB) Jayon Brown (LB) Jeffrey Simmons (DT) Harold Landry (OLB) Kevin Byard (S) Amani Hooker (S)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Kristian Fulton (CB) or Janoris Jenkins (CB) appear to be the streaming corner options so far this season, 100% and 88% of snaps played respectively in week one and nice box scores for both. We'll update this at it changes over the course of the season, I doubt this is set in stone yet.

Bradley McDougald (S) is the direct beneficiary of the foot injury to Amani Hooker (S), I couldn't find anything on how serious it was at the time of writing but if he can't go it looks like McDougald will be the replacement and a waiver wire safety option for the duration of that injury.

Misc notes: Rashaan Evans (LB) was the subject of some preseason rumblings about possibly being displaced by David Long (LB) on the depth chart, he sits at a 53.7 PFF grade currently which isn't great so this could end up being a thing, for now though he played his normal 80% of snaps and recorded six solo tackles for the day which isn't bad at all as your linebacker three or so. We'll keep an eye on it.

Everything else looked good here this week, the guys who were supposed to produce on defense did so and there were no huge surprises. We'll keep an eye on the corners situation as that develops, the Titans spent significant draft capital on Caleb Farley (CB) but Kristian Fulton (CB) started over him in week one, that probably won't last forever. For now Janoris Jenkins (CB) seems to me to be the best option here to stream at corner and we'll see what happens from there.

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The more things change the more they stay the same

Seahawks @ Colts

Seattle Seahawks

Produced as expected: Bobby Wagner (LB) Jordyn Brooks (LB) Quandre Diggs (S) Jamal Adams (S) *somewhat* DJ Reed (CB)

Flash in the pan: Benson Mayowa (DE) and Darryl Taylor (DE) played 42% and 34% of snaps respectively this week and while both lucked into a sack neither has ideal playing time if this is the case going forward, it looks like a real rotation here. More below. Depending on consistent production from the defensive line doesn't exist to begin with and the fewer snaps those defensive ends and tackles play each week the fewer opportunities for production at an already inconsistent and sporadic position. Draft the studs who play a ton and are talented, you never want to have to rely on guys like these two for your defensive line production week to week.

Possible waivers: Rasheem Green (DE) and Tre Flowers (CB) played 70% and 100% of snaps this week respectively, for Green that means he played the most of any defensive end in the current rotation and beat out known quantities such as Carlos Dunlap (DE) and Kerry Hyder (DE) so that was definitely interesting, we'll see if it lasts but for now he's the top dog in Seattle for the defensive line and could be a decent option in waivers if you need defensive end help in deeper leagues.

Flowers appears to be the corner streaming option here along with DJ Reed (S/CB) as long as he's designated a corner in your league of merit. If the matchup is correct he's proven to be an excellent streaming option in the past, same thing with Reed.

Misc notes: Carlos Dunlap (DE) and Kerry Hyder (DE) were surprisingly at the bottom of the defensive line (end) rotation for the Seahawks in week one, many (including me) had thought these two would see the most playing time at defensive end without question but so far that isn't the case. We'll see what happens, the season is young but this definitely got my attention.

Beyond that things look pretty good here, Jordyn Books (LB) finally got the playing time he needs to be a thing, 89% of snaps in week one and a perfectly acceptable box score. Wagner was himself. Jamal Adams (S) was himself too, no sacks and just a handful of tackles means that most people already feel like they massively over payed for him but once again the season is young, he'll have some monster games before you know it. Patience is a virtue.

Indianapolis Colts

Produced as expected: Khari Willis (S) Bobby Okereke (LB) DeForest Buckner (DT) Darius Leonard (LB) *somewhat*

Flash in the pan: TJ Carrie (CB) only played 69% of snaps this week as the clear third corner here in terms of playing time and therefore opportunity to make plays and score points. He had a decent box score with that in mind but I'll pass in favor of a corner that plays every defensive snap for their defense. Also he'll likely see even less playing time when Xavier Rhodes (CB) returns from an early season injury.

Possible waivers: Bobby Okereke (LB) may be available in some shallower leagues simply due to the fact that last time we saw him he was maxing out around 70% or so snaps per game, this season, small sample size so far but whatever, he's at 100% snaps per game. That's an increase in value if it holds. Not a bad idea at all if you need linebacker help and he's available.

Julian Blackmon (S) and Grover Stewart (DT) are waiver options here simply because they play a lot and due to that fact will probably stumble into some productive games this season. 100% and 81% of snaps respectively this week, either would make a decent waiver wire option in deeper leagues.

Kwity Paye (DE) and Al Quadin Muhammed (DE) same deal, 76% and 70% of snaps played this week and while Kwity Paye (DE) had the preseason hype it's less likely he'll be available. Muhammed should be though in medium to deeper leagues and might make a good bye week or short term injury replacement guy, the playing time is right and he did rack up half a sack plus some other stats this week. Availability and opportunity are more than half the battle with IDP, Muhammed has both so far.

Misc notes: Kenny Moore (CB) and Rock Ya Sin (CB) appear to be the streaming corner options here so far with 96% and 100% of snaps played respectively in week one. Kenny Moore (CB) has always been an excellent IDP cornerback option but Rock Ya Sin (CB) has been solid when he sees elevated playing time (often due to Xavier Rhodes injury). We'll have to see what happens when Rhodes is back in the lineup but last year even when all three were healthy Ya Sin still had some productive games when the matchup was correct.

Darius Leonard (LB) did play all 100% of snaps this week but only recorded five tackles on the day. Once again this season I watched people take him and other linebackers (Devin White, Roquan Smith) rounds (plural) ahead of where they should have been taken.

I used that draft capital to ensure strength on offense, defensive tackle (the preeminent example of positional scarcity and talent/production drop-off) and defensive end which is almost as bad. Those players, defensive ends and tackles, don't show up on waivers with any kind of consistency. The Trey Hendrickson's (DE) and David Onyemata's (DT) of the world are the exception and not the rule.

This year just like every other year we'll see plenty of solid, consistent, reliable and readily available waiver wire linebackers starting to flood into waivers as soon as now and for the rest of the season. Get strong at the positions of scarcity during the draft and take advantage of the 2021/22 versions of Tyrell Adams, Alex Singleton and Donald Payne.

People took Darius Leonard (LB) in the same rounds as guys like Robert Woods (WR) and Chase Young (DE) or Aaron Donald (DT) and got a whole five tackles out of it this week, they could have gotten those same five tackles rather easily from a waiver wire linebacker at pretty much any point this season or even prior to this season, Rashaan Evans (LB) got you six tackles this week and cost you basically nothing. The fade defensive line crowd also seems to be the fade brain cells crowd.

Everything else here looked good, we'll keep an eye on the Xavier Rhodes (CB) injury going forward and see what week two brings. Onwards.

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Kenneth Murray started the season with a bang

Chargers @ Football Team

Los Angeles Chargers

Produced as expected: Kenneth Murray (LB) Derwin James (S) Joey Bosa (DE)

Flash in the pan: Christian Covington (DT) and Kyzir White (LB) played 53% and 69% of snaps respectively this week and while neither is completely catastrophic it's also not as ideal as you would like at each position. They're probably both fine in deeper leagues if that playing time holds going forward, regardless just wanted the people to know neither is ideal despite the decent week one production.

Possible waivers: Asante Samuel Jr (CB) was in for 85% of snaps week one and had a really nice game with five combined tackles, four of them solo and one tackle for loss. As a rookie drafted later on in the draft the immediate decent playing time was a nice surprise, he could make for an excellent streaming option especially if he can tack on those extra 15% of snaps as the season progresses. The Cowboys are in town week two for the shootout of the century so Samuel would make an excellent corner stream with that in mind for week two.

Misc notes: Chris Harris Jr (CB) and Michael Davis (CB) were the other two corners with ideal playing time, 98% and 96% of snaps played respectively. It looks like the Washington football team avoided throwing at Harris like the plague, can't tell for sure though, I wasn't able to watch this game personally on Sunday. Davis had a decent box score though and we already talked about Samuel Jr. Those three are all excellent dart throws with the Cowboys in town for week two.

Drue Tranquil (LB) and Nasir Adderley (S) played 5% and 73% of snaps respectively this week. For the Tranquil faithful in IDP Twitter land this was obviously less than ideal, I wasn't one of them but I figured I would mention it. Not great for him. As for Adderley that's not great playing time either but in much deeper leagues he may be worth a stash or waiver wire grab if you're desperate for safety help. Derwin James (S) is the guy here, end of story.

Everyone else had a quiet week one but played normal or close to normal snaps based on recent experience. Jerry Tillery (DT) and Linval Joseph (DT) both played plenty, 76% and 60% of snaps respectively, no production in week one though, nature of the defensive tackle beast and all that. Defensive tackle isn't an "every week" position for production, both should be fine and have their solid weeks in due time. Not much else to note here, the guys we needed to produce did so and played plenty, we'll take it.

Washington Football Team

Produced as expected: Cole Holcomb (LB) Jon Bostic (LB) Kendall Fuller (CB) Montez Sweat (DE) Jonathan Allen (DT) Chase Young (DE) *somewhat*

Flash in the pan: Benjamin St Juste (CB) was only in for 58% of snaps so we can disregard the four solo tackles, which aren't all that great anyways but in the land of cornerback (especially in much deeper leagues) this could look decent, he's not playing enough for it to be sustainable so we should pass on this.

Possible waivers: Bobby McCain (S/CB) could be the deal of the week, especially in leagues where he's designated a cornerback. He was in for 85% of snaps this week and was listed as a free safety, as to where he actually lined up I'm sure it was all over the place, the point is if he did play some safety snaps and is designated as a cornerback that's a beautiful thing, any kind of safety is usually more consistent than your typical corner snaps week to week and consistency is king. This looks like a nice waiver move in medium to deeper leagues, we'll see how it goes.

William Jackson (CB) was also in for 85% of snaps and recorded four solo tackles and two passes defended, fourteen points in most of my leagues which is really nice for a corner no one was looking at before week one. If the matchup is correct and the league is deep this could be a nice move as a streamer, Kendall Fuller (CB) is still the alpha cornerback stream here though.

Misc notes: Landon Collins (S) and Kamren Curl (S) played 80% and 46% of snaps respectively in week one, not exactly what we expected, a good amount of Collin's snaps were in the box at least from what I've read today so I'd be willing to give him another chance or two. For Kurl though it's probably time to look for a replacement sooner rather than later, 46% of snaps ain't going to cut it.

Jamin Davis (LB) was in for 56% of snaps and was the third linebacker behind both Cole Holcomb (LB) and Jon Bostic (LB) who played 100% and 84% of snaps respectively in week one. He will very likely be a monster one of these days but not today. Bench and or taxi squad for now, we'll see what happens as the season progresses.

Matt Ioannidis (DE) and Daron Payne (DT) played 53% and 75% of snaps respectively this week and both had down weeks overall. Ioannidis still makes a decent defensive end three or four in deeper degenerate leagues and Payne remains a good option at defensive tackle in medium to deeper leagues who should have some monster games in the near future. This defense remains loaded with both IDP studs and real life football talent and is a gift to us all, no significant issues here in week one besides the Jamin Davis (LB) era hasn't begun yet. It will soon enough.

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Shaq Thompson filled the box score in week one

Jets @ Panthers

New York Jets

Produced as expected: Marcus Maye (S) John Franklin Meyers (DE)

Flash in the pan: Michael Carter (CB) only played 55% of snaps this week but had a nice box score if your league scores pass defense correctly, regardless not enough playing time for a corner stream so we'll pass on this.

Possible waivers: Del'Shawn Phillips (LB) came in pretty much immediately after Jamien Sherwood (LB) got hurt early in this game, it remains to be seen if he stays the other inside linebacker next to CJ Mosley (LB) in week two, at the time of writing I couldn't find any information on the severity of the injury to Sherwood, this could be a nice waiver wire linebacker if Sherwood is out for an extended amount of time and Phillips assumes that role, follow up with local beat writers closer to kickoff.

Misc notes: Shaq Lawson (DE) was only in for 53% of snaps and didn't do anything of note in his premier for the Jets, sorry IDP Twitter, he's not a thing, at least yet anyways. We'll see what next week brings.

Quinnen Williams (DT) played 61% of snaps and had a quiet game as well in week one but we all know what he's capable of, this is par for the course for IDP defensive tackle, it's not an "every week" position for production, he'll be fine. Bigger weeks to come.

CJ Mosley (LB) will also be fine, he played plenty, 94% of snaps in week one, so I'm not even close to pulling the plug here. I wasn't able to actually watch the Panthers/Jets game but I would bet the farm he was just unlucky with how the game broke for him and he'll rebound nicely against the Patriots this week once they dominate time of possession and run all over them all game long. No worries here yet.

Bryce Hall (CB) appears to be the best streaming corner option here so far with 100% of snaps played in week one, it was Brandin Echoles (CB) then Michael Carter (CB) with 72% and 55% of snaps respectively in order after those two, part of that could be gamescript since the Panthers got up big early and were likely attempting to run the clock out so this isn't set in stone either, besides they have the Patriots this week not the greatest show on turf so the streaming corner prospects are less than ideal anyways. We'll circle back. More to be revealed with this defense, for now the order of the day is maintain calm and give it a chance to shake out for Quinnen Williams and CJ Mosley.

Carolina Panthers

Produced as expected: Shaq Thompson (LB) Donte Jackson (CB) Jermaine Carter (LB) *somewhat* Jeremy Chinn (S) Haasan Redick (EDGE) Derick Brown (DT) Brian Burns (DE)

Flash in the pan: Marquis Haynes (DE) only played 23% of snaps and isn't named Burns or Redick or even Gross-Matos, hard pass, doesn't play enough among other reasons.

Possible waivers: Justin Burris (S) didn't do a whole bunch in week one, just three combined tackles and one tackle for loss, but he did play 100% of snaps reportedly as the strong safety and is designated as a corner in some places if I recall correctly, he had some monster games last season and makes a very nice option in much deeper leagues especially if he has that corner designation. Jermaine Carter (LB) did in fact play enough with 95% of snaps in week one, the production will probably never be to the Shaq Thompson (LB) level but he's playing enough so there will be some nice weeks.

Misc notes: Yetur Gross Matos (DE) and Jaycee Horn (CB) played 29% and 98% of snaps respectively this week and neither did much of note. For Gross-Matos it looks like the addition of Redick may hurt his pass rush chances so he remains a bench or taxi squad option for the moment. As for Horn he'll certainly have some huge weeks as a streaming corner, this weeks matchup was the polar opposite of ideal so the three combined tackles and no other stats doesn't really shock me. When they play the Bucs and Falcons twice each that will be the time to fire him up along with any other excellent passing attacks that come to town. His time will come.

Everything else looked pretty good this week, no real surprises here except Shaq Thompson (LB) having a career day and Yetur Gross Matos (DE) not taking that step forward with playing time some were hoping for. The season is young though so we'll keep an eye on that second situation. Moving on.

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Myles Jack continues to produce well when healthy

Jaguars @ Texans

Jacksonville Jaguars

Produced as expected: Myles Jack (LB) Damien Wilson (LB) Reyshawn Jenkins (S) Josh Allen (DE) Shaq Griffin (CB)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Malcolm Brown (DT) was in for 65% of snaps in week one and had a really nice box score, the Jags haven't had an IDP relevant defensive tackle in quite some time so it would be nice if this lasts, it looks good for now but I would only trust this in much deeper leagues for now, it doesn't feel legit yet. We'll keep an eye on it though.

Damien Wilson (LB) appears to be a legit option here, at least in much deeper leagues, 77% of snaps in week one with seven combined tackles. Unfortunately six of them were assists, but still he was on the field a good amount and involved, the production will be there and this lines up for deeper leagues where he makes sense. Looks good at the moment, we'll see how long it lasts.

Reyshawn Jenkins (S) and Andrew Wingard (S) are the two full time or close to it safeties currently, Jenkins we were pretty sure about and played 100% of snaps week one and had a really nice box score. He also spent a ton of snaps in the box which will help his production for as long as that trend lasts. Excellent waiver wire safety option for leagues of all shapes and sizes if you need it. RESHAPE Jenkins is back! Shoutout to my insane Chargers stalker from Twitter! Let's get weird! As for Wingard he was in for 71% of snaps recording six combined tackles, four of them solo, not bad for medium to deeper leagues if you need safety help. At least until Andre Cisco (S) becomes a thing, more below on that.

Misc notes: K'Lavon Chaisson (EDGE) still stinks, 47% of snaps and no production of note. Continue to pass on this.

CJ Henderson (CB) is the other IDP streamable corner here along with Shaq Griffin (CB), both played 100% of snaps in week one, if the matchup is correct these are the two options currently.

Andre Cisco (S) was only in for 29% of snaps in week one and had no production of any relevance. Bench and or taxi squad for now, I'm sure he'll see significant playing time before the season is out since the Jags chances of real football relevance are already swirling the toilet. We'll yell it out loud when he's playing enough to put into your lineup, that isn't now though. A couple surprises here in Jacksonville and some storylines to monitor in coming weeks. We'll circle back next week.

Houston Texans

Produced as expected: Christian Kirksey (LB) Eric Murray (S) Zach Cunningham (LB) *somewhat* Justin Reid (S) Whitney Mercilus (EDGE)

Flash in the pan: Desmond King (CB) may have led the Houston corners in production week one but he was the third corner in terms of playing time with just 77% of snaps played, that can and will catch up to him at some point in all likelihood. I'd rather have either of the other two and the extra 20% or so of snaps for reasons I mentioned earlier in this article. Just a personal preference thing, do what you will.

Possible waivers: Terrence Mitchell (CB) and Vernon Hargreaves (CB) played 100% and 84% of snaps respectively this week and both had really solid box scores as well. They are the two streaming corner options I would prefer if the matchup is correct.

Misc notes: Charles Omenihu (DE) was in for 65% of snaps week one but didn't have much production this week. There are some that like him in IDP Twitter land, I'm not one of them but he is playing enough to be an option in much deeper leagues.

Zach Cunningham (LB) starts the season playing every snap and ended week one with a 27.7 PFF grade, much like last season he's treading in dangerous territory. Shoutout Mike Woellert who watched the game film and passed along that the Jags targeted Cunningham all game long and he gave up almost fourteen yards per carry when defending the run and allowed a TD. PFF's Jon Macri further elaborated in our marvel chat on Twitter saying Cunningham was constantly blowing his assignments, going after high risk/reward plays and landing on the bad side of that equation and generally getting targeted a ton because he's terrible in coverage.

We saw a real life example of how this eventually ends with Jaylon Smith (LB) in Dallas this season, will Cunningham be the next dynasty victim of bad play ending in loss of a job or playing time? We shall see. The point is he's not doing well playing real football and that's not good if you own shares in dynasty, I've already moved on where I could, I would suggest you do the same before we see the same story play out here in Houston that we did in Dallas.

Christian Kirksey (LB) was in for 100% of snaps filling the McKinney role from last season and had some really nice production. If you can flip him now I would. He's made of glass and this won't last long, it's unfortunate but true season after season. I really hope he can stay healthy all season and productive as well but the odds are against it in recent seasons. Buyer beware. Everything else looks like business as usual in Houston and they surprisingly start the season 1-0. What a strange world we live in.

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Denzel Ward took advantage of an excellent matchup for streaming CB

Browns @ Chiefs

Cleveland Browns

Produced as expected: Anthony Walker (LB) Denzel Ward (CB) John Johnson (S) Myles Garrett (DE)

Flash in the pan: Joe Jackson (DE) only played 15% of snaps this week, clearly the sack he recorded was a lucky outlier and not likely to happen again any time soon playing that little. Pass on this.

Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

Misc notes: Greg Newsome (CB) and Troy Hill (CB) played 97% and 66% of snaps respectively this week, somewhat of a surprise and the reverse of what most of us thought going into this. As it stands currently it looks like Denzel Ward (CB) and Greg Newsome (CB) are the best streaming corner options at the moment. Greedy Williams (CB) was only in for 12% of snaps so he's not an option yet.

JaDaveon Clowney (DE) is playing enough, 77% of week one snaps, and recorded four combined tackles and one tackle for loss, eight points in most of my leagues which isn't terrible at all. Depending who you believe in the age old "does one really good defensive end help the other" argument this could be a reason for or against trying to acquire Clowney. @UtahEC on Twitter did a really great thread on this awhile ago that proved that's a wives tale, there is no correlation between one great defensive end helping the other one in regards to double teams, opposing offense paying more attention to one side and game planning for it etc. Regardless Clowney had a decent week one and is playing plenty, I'm mildly optimistic that he could have a resurgence here in Cleveland.

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB) was only in for 38% of snaps week one and remains a bench or taxi squad option currently, that probably will change over the course of the season but for now he's not playing enough to be a factor or option for your IDP defense. Everything else was business as usual here, I'm not wasting time talking about guys like Sione Takitaki (LB), Mack Wilson (LB) or Malcolm Smith (LB), they were all non factors and barely played. Onwards.

Kansas City Chiefs

Produced as expected: L'Jarius Sneed (S/CB) Chris Jones (DT) Chavarious Ward (CB) *somewhat*

Flash in the pan: Juan Thornhill (S) likely only saw significant playing time this week due to the Tyrann Mathieu (S) injury, if the 95% of snaps continues with Mathieu on the field I'll be pretty surprised. Buyer beware on this as a safety waiver wire pickup. It was Mathieu and Sorensen last season and I don't see why that wouldn't be the case again this season when they're all healthy and available.

Possible waivers: Nick Bolton (LB) was in for 76% of snaps week one and recorded seven combined tackles and a tackle for loss, pretty sweet especially in deeper leagues and this looks pretty safe at least until Willie Gay (LB) comes back, we'll reevaluate at that point.

Misc notes: Frank Clark (DE) was a no go in week one, we can ignore the Mike Danna (DE) increased playing time it likely had everything to do with that and nothing to do with Mike Danna (DE) being a thing now, Clark should be back soon.

Anthony Hitchens (LB) saw the most snaps at linebacker this week with Nick Bolton (LB) right behind him, 80% and 76% of snaps respectively. Most still think it will eventually be Willie Gay (LB) and Nick Bolton (LB) as the two IDP relevant linebacker options here this season but with Gay on the short term IR Hitchens becomes an option in much deeper leagues for the duration of that injury it appears.

Chris Jones (DT) did in fact play a good amount of snaps at defensive end and is still designated a defensive tackle in everywhere I've seen him, that's a beautiful thing and could vault him back into the coveted top three for IDP defensive tackle along with Donald and Buckner and displacing Quinnen.

Daniel Sorensen (S) was at 100% of snaps but had a quiet game with only four combined tackles, I'm not all that worried he was super productive last season and should be the other IDP relevant safety here along with Tyrann Mathieu (S) when he comes back likely week two. It was Sneed and Ward as the corners with ideal playing time here, we'll see if that changes but that's what we saw in week one. More changes to come for this defense as guys like Frank Clark (DE), Willie Gay (LB) and Tyrann Mathieu (S) return from their various issues in the coming weeks. Many things in flux here so we'll keep a good eye on it.

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Xavien Howard managed a nice game despite a less than ideal matchup

Dolphins @ Patriots

Miami Dolphins

Produced as expected: Jerome Baker (LB) Eric Rowe (S) Byron Jones (CB) Xavien Howard (CB) Emmanuel Ogbah (DE)

Flash in the pan: Nik Needham (CB) and Sam Equavoen (LB) played 47% and 48% of snaps respectively in week one and produced at an efficiency far beyond what is sustainable, definition of flash in the pan production for both based off that playing time, pass times two.

Possible waivers: Jason McCourty (CB) played 99% of snaps and was a legit full time cornerback along with the expected Howard and Jones, we'll see if this continues but if it does it would add another streaming corner option in the correct matchups, the Bills come to town this week and that would qualify. Still it's too early to know if McCourty's playing time is normal or just a week one aberration, if you do choose to stream against the Bills I would go Howard then Jones and we'll see what the deal is with McCourty after another week or two.

Misc notes: Jevon Holland (S) was only in for 32% of snaps this week, him along with Jalen Philips (DE), 29% of snaps in week one, are currently destined for the bench or taxi squad until that playing time increases drastically. It will at some point, we're just not there yet. Patience is a virtue.

Elandon Roberts (LB) and Sam Eguavoen (LB) with Andrew Van Ginkel (LB) will likely constitute the dumpster fire that is the "non Jerome Baker" linebackers available here, if this goes anything like recent history then the playing time, production, etc will vary drastically for all three of these players week to week, I wouldn't trust any of them currently. We'll circle back next week and see if Andrew Van Ginkel (LB) is able to maintain his 71% of snaps played but I highly doubt it. Roberts and Eguavoen both saw 48% of snaps played so neither is an option now or likely in the future either, this defense is a roller coaster at the linebacker position and if last season was any indication even Jerome Baker (LB) won't be safe from playing time (and therefore production) shenanigans as well. You've been warned.

New England Patriots

Produced as expected: Kyle Dugger (S) Devin McCourty (S) Kyle Van Noy (LB)

Flash in the pan: Josh Uche (OLB) was only in for 28% of snaps and lucked into a sack, the playing time needed for any resemblance of consistency isn't there yet, it might be at some point but not yet. Pass for now.

Possible waivers: Ju'Whuan Bentley (LB) and Donta Hightower (LB) both played a decent amount, 78% and 72% of snaps respectively, and while neither had a super impressive box score if this playing time holds, which it probably won't if we're being honest this is the Patriots defense after all, either could be a decent waiver wire linebacker in much deeper leagues. I wouldn't do this, but it exists and those numbers are true, so it's your call in the end.

Misc notes: Chase Winovich (DE) only played 22% of snaps in week one and looks to be dead on arrival again this season, of course that will change when he randomly plays almost every snap one of these weeks here soon and logs a sack or two, but then he'll drop back down to almost no playing time because that's how things work here in New England. I don't mess with this defense for IDP at all really, too unpredictable. Too inconsistent. Consistency is king and it doesn't exist here.

JC Jackson (CB) looks to be the only streaming corner option currently with 100% of snaps in week one, we don't need to worry about that this week anyways since the Jets are in town and not the 2013 Indianapolis Colts so we won't be streaming corner from the Patriots anyways. Beyond Dugger here I'm basically all set with anyone on this defense, and even Dugger with his excellent week one box score and playing time (93% of snaps) will very likely not be immune to the Patriots defense shenanigans. We'll see what next week brings and reevaluate.

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As constant as the Northern star, Blake Martinez

Broncos @ Giants

Denver Broncos

Produced as expected: Kyle Fuller (CB) Justin Simmons (S) Ronald Darby (CB) Shelby Harris (DE) Von Miller (EDGE)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Josey Jewell (LB) surprisingly played all 100% of snaps for the Broncos in week one and recorded four solo tackles and a pass defended, eleven points in most of my leagues, and was the best combined tackle floor inside linebacker option here this week. If this holds up the roles will be reversed from last season, more below, nice option regardless in medium to deeper leagues if you need linebacker help.

Misc notes: Alexander Johnson (LB) was only in for 84% of snaps in week one which was a surprise to many, he recorded just two solo tackles and a pass defended and it looks like after one week Josey Jewell (LB) is the linebacker to play here in Denver. We'll see if this continues, the situation was reversed last season. Definitely a story line to keep an eye on in week two.

Ronald Darby (CB) was placed on IR after this game and there's been strong rumors that Patrick Surtain (CB), who only saw 26% of snaps in week one, will be the other full time cornerback starter going forward along with Kyle Fuller (CB). It looks like we won't have to wait long at all to see what he's really capable of, I would feel comfortable firing him up if the matchup looks good as long as this actually comes to pass. Bradley Chubb (EDGE) was inactive week one with an ankle injury so we'll have to wait and see what he looks like when he returns, Malik Reed (EDGE) was his direct replacement playing 74% of snaps but only recording one tackle assist on the day. Those are the issues we'll be monitoring heading into week two, everything else looked good here, Kareem Jackson (S) did play 100% of snaps in week one but had a quiet week against a terrible Giants offense that didn't provide much to eat for this Broncos defense really at all so it tracks, he'll be fine and so will anyone else who had a bit of a down week I reckon, it was the Giants not the 2007 Patriots in the building after all.

New York Giants

Produced as expected: Logan Ryan (S/CB) Blake Martinez (LB) James Bradberry (CB) Adoree Jackson (CB)

Flash in the pan: Reggie Ragland (LB) and Austin Johnson (DT) played 38% and 50% of the giants defensive snaps respectively this week, not nearly enough for Ragland but for Johnson that could be an option in much deeper leagues, for me though I've never heard of this guy and one week of production based off lower playing time than what I personally have on my IDP teams at defensive tackle isn't going to do the trick, I'll be passing on this. Worth a stab in much deeper leagues though possibly if you're truly desperate for defensive tackle help.

Azeez Ojulari (LB) played 52% of snaps and recorded the vast majority of his IDP points from a lucky outlier sack that isn't likely to happen again any time soon, we'll need so see this a few times before I'll start believing it's real. Pass for now here as well.

Possible waivers: Adoree Jackson (CB) was in for 95% of snaps this week, I didn't know what kind of playing time we'd be looking at for him with all the excellent options in this secondary but this was perfectly acceptable. He could make a nice streaming option against solid passing attacks when they come to town.

Misc notes: Xavier McKinney (S) also played 95% of snaps in week one and recorded three solo tackles and two passes defended, twelve points in most of my leagues which is perfectly acceptable for a safety three or so in deeper leagues. He doesn't look to be the odd man out at all, we're getting to that guy shortly.

Leonard Williams (DE) played 77% of snaps but had a down day overall with just a handful of combined tackles and a tackle for loss, not a total disaster but not what many were hoping for either. This is the nature of defensive line IDP production, you ride the wave. He'll be fine, bigger weeks to come.

Jabrill Peppers (S) though, may not be fine, with just 45% of snaps played in week one translating to a whole three tackles and one tackle for loss from one of the higher ADP safeties overall (don't look at me I've always said he stinks). Gerbil Peppers isn't nearly as good in pass coverage as McKinney or Ryan and when given (fewer) opportunities to address that in week one he was roasted and toasted on all four of the targets against him. Last season he allowed 46 catches when targeted by opposing quarterbacks, fifth most for all safeties, and was graded 46th out of 97 safeties overall last season with "other aspects of his game" helping to cover up his amazingly bad pass coverage grade. The modern NFL is all about the passing game, if Poopers can't excel in that department he'll continue to find his opportunities limited and his playing time going to other, better, players on that Giants defense. Maybe he can find a way back to IDP relevance but if this is the new normal I'd warm up the airlock because it will be time to blast him out into space before we know it. Everything else looked good here this week, we'll see what week two brings for Jabrill Poopypants and the rest of this otherwise talented Giants defense.

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Looks like Macri was correct, closer to the LOS = more production

Packers @ Saints

Green Bay Packers

Produced as expected: Adrian Amos (S) Preston Smith (EDGE) Kenny Clark (DT)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Krys Barnes (LB) and DeVondre Campbell (LB) both appeared to be playable IDP options based off what we saw in week one. Whether or not that continues is anyone's guess, this game was dominated by the Saints from start to finish and they got up big and were able to run quite a bit, a more traditional back and forth affair might mean fewer snaps for either of these linebackers but with the information we have right now they both look like legit options. 76% and 90% of snaps respectively in week one and really nice production for both in the box score. We'll see what week two brings but for now they both look like safe linebacker two or three's in medium to deeper leagues, we'll monitor as things progress.

Misc notes: Za'Darius Smith (EDGE) is clearly still dealing with his back injury, only 29% of snaps in week one and he looked like a shell of himself, this looks like the Joey Bosa (DE) situation from last season so let's hope it works out better. Regardless we'll see how this week goes, I'm hoping for normal playing time and his usual destruction of the opposing quarterback.

Eric Stokes (CB) was only in for 13% of snaps, taxi squad or bench option only at this point.

Kevin Kings (CB) and Jaire Alexander (CB) both played 90% of snaps in week one and neither did much due to the incredibly (weird) efficient passing from Jameis Winston (QB). He barely needed to pass and when he did it was often for a touchdown, truly a strange sentence to type let me tell you. I think we can just toss this entire game out, both remain really nice streaming corner options in the correct matchup, the season is a marathon not a sprint. Rome wasn't built in a day, etc etc. They'll be fine.

Darnell Savage (S) got hurt in this one but "avoided major injury" and should be fine for week two, he didn't do much in this one but I wouldn't abandon ship just yet, he was hobbled in this one and it was a weird game to begin with, let's give it another chance or two if you can. If it's a shallow league I get it, but in deeper leagues I'd absolutely give him another go or two. Extremely weird week overall for this defense and the Packers in general, this was likely just an anomaly, they should rebound nicely against the Lions, they're going to need all the thoughts and prayers Monday night this week (the Lions).

New Orleans Saints

Produced as expected: Marcus Davenport (DE)

Flash in the pan: Essentially everyone else, the starters were rested super early in this one and the backups are all at the top of the box score this week. Zack Baun (LB), 40% of snaps, especially, avoid that trap.

Possible waivers: Marcus Davenport (DE) and Paulson Adebo (CB) possibly, 46% and 100% of snaps respectively this week, but due to the weird way this one went I'm not sure we can trust either of those numbers, I'd just ignore everything from this game completely if I were you. The studs will be fine, Zack Baun (LB) isn't a real option and Adebo likely saw a ton of snaps simply because they could afford to do so. Next week, or the next game that's actually close and competitive, will give us a better read on this entire defense.

Misc notes: The Saints spent only 25 minutes on defense this week as their offense absolutely dominated time of possession and basically every other relevant statistic there was against the Packers. What was supposed to be a close, evenly matched shoot out ended up being a blood bath. The Saints defense overall should perform much better most weeks when the game is closer and their starters aren't given the entire fourth quarter off due to the blowout being so complete. Malcolm Jenkins (S) maxed out at 84% of snaps this week and every other starter saw even more rest than him once this game got out of hand and the writing was on the wall. That's a long way of saying we can throw this one out, these guys will be fine. Strange gamescript that resulted in far less playing time than usual and much less production as a defense overall as the Packers went three and out often and threw interceptions and coughed up fumbles all afternoon long.

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THE LB1 was in the house Sunday Night

Bears @ Rams

Chicago Bears

Produced as expected: Roquan Smith (LB) Eddie Jackson (S) Jaylon Johnson (CB) Akiem Hicks (DT) Robert Quinn (OLB)

Flash in the pan: NA

Possible waivers: Alec Ogletree (LB) and Kindle Vildor (CB) played 79% and 100% of snaps respectively this week and had five combined tackles each, decent waiver wire linebacker in much deeper leagues for Ogletree as long as it isn't cold (inside joke for the readers that have been here a long time) and for the duration of the Danny Trevethan (LB) stint on IR. As for Vildor this appears to be the other full time cornerback along with Johnson and will make a nice streaming option in the correct matchup in deeper leagues, Cincy this week definitely qualifies with that passing attack.

Misc notes: Tashaun Gipson (S) was the other full time safety here with 100% of snaps played but didn't do much with them, still he'll likely have some nice games this season and makes a fine weekly safety in those super deep degenerate leagues.

Khalil Mack (EDGE) played plenty, 85% of snaps in week one, but failed to land a sack or splash play so it didn't work out well for anyone who plugged him into your linebacker slot, as a defensive lineman or edge rusher this likely was fine since the odds are good your opponent had at least one stinker as well and it evened out, however as a linebacker I always prefer solid combined tackle floor guys since you're not relying on splash plays (which are sporadic, unreliable and unpredictable). Tackles happen every week, sacks and picks and other splash plays do not. Risk management, it's a thing. Everything else here looked great, the guys who were supposed to produce did so besides Mack and he'll have some monster weeks this season no doubt, they'll just be sporadic and random like all production is for outside linebackers or defensive linemen.

Los Angeles Rams

Produced as expected: Jordan Fuller (S) Taylor Rapp (S) Kenny Young (LB) Jalen Ramsey (CB) Darious Williams (CB) Aaron Donald (DT)

Flash in the pan: David Long Jr (CB) and Troy Reeder (LB) played 57% and 28% of snaps respectively this week and produced at an efficiency that is unlikely (very unlikely) to be sustained this season, neither play enough for these week one box scores to be consistent, pass on both.

Possible waivers: Justin Hollins (LB) was in for 74% of snaps in week one and had a really nice box score, I'm not sure I buy this at all with all the likely fluctuation coming to this Rams linebacker corps but it does technically exist therefore I am mentioning it, I probably wouldn't do it but this is a free country.

Misc notes: Leonard Floyd (OLB) was in for 83% of snaps this week but didn't land a splash play and will never be a combined tackle floor linebacker so it's boom or bust, this week it was bust, it could be boom next week who knows. He's playing enough though so if he's in your lineup and you're wondering about the down week in the box score that wasn't the reason, nature of the production style is your answer.

Everything else here looked beyond excellent, this defense continues to part opposing quarterbacks butt cheeks like Moses parted the Red Sea. Aaron Donald (DT) is a much better player then TJ Watt. That is all.

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Can Patrick Queen take a step forward this season?

Ravens @ Raiders

Baltimore Ravens

Produced as expected: Patrick Queen (LB) Marlon Humphrey (CB) DeShon Elliot (S)

Flash in the pan: Pernell McPhee (LB) only played 42% of snaps and lucked into a sack that’s not likely to happen again any time soon, I’ll pass on this, not talented enough to produce like this with the less than ideal playing time.

Possible Waivers: Anthony Averett (CB) and Odafe Oweh (OLB) played 99% and 56% of snaps respectively, Averett appears to be the other full time corner with the season ending injury to Marcus Peters (CB) and will be a good corner to stream if the matchup is correct (like against KC this week) and as for Oweh this is more of a dynasty move but the young pass rushing threat appears to have some talent in getting to the quarterback.

Misc notes: Chuck Clark (S) played every snap, 100% in week one, but had a down day with only three combined tackles but also three passes defended so if your league scores those correctly he had a nice day, if they don’t then not so much, regardless he’s playing plenty and should be a nice safety two or three in deeper leagues just like last season.

Calais Campbell (DT) was in for 70% of snaps but had a quiet day, he’s been getting up there in years and the production has suffered in recent years, he really should only be an option in deeper leagues these days so hopefully the not so ideal week one production didn’t hurt too many of you fine readers.

Justin Houston (OLB/DE) was in for 65% of week one snaps and also had a quiet day, for me this depends on designation, if he remains a DE in your leagues of merit I’d be fine with him as a defensive end two or three in deeper leagues, as a linebacker you’re probably not going to have a good time this season, buyer beware. Everything else was business as usual here in Baltimore for week one.

Patrick Queen (LB) did in fact improve his PFF score a good amount in week one ending with a 70.6 overall grade against the Raiders. Progress!!!

Las Vegas Raiders

Produced as expected: Jonathan Abram (S) Cory Littleton (LB) Maxx Crosby (DE)

Flash in the pan: Nick Kwiatkowski (LB) only played 24% of snaps, clearly outlier production based off far less than ideal playing time and not likely to happen again any time soon, pass, however I did see there was a possible injury to someone from this linebacker corps I just didn’t have time to follow up on it before submitting this article at the last possible minute, if that is the case Kwiatkowski may see more playing time as a result but if not this isn’t even close to enough playing time for any kind of consistency.

Yannick Ngakoue (DE) and Carl Nassib (DE) played 49% and 44% of snaps this week, and while that may be enough in the absolute deepest and darkest of leagues as a defensive end three or four in most places this isn’t ideal and these guys are just part of the rotation and therefore have less of a chance of consistency week to week.

Possible Waivers: Denzel Perryman (LB) was in for the second most linebacker snaps with 76%, Littleton had the most with 84%, and recorded ten combined tackles in week one. This looks like a pretty nice waiver wire linebacker in deeper leagues but once again there are many chefs in the kitchen here so buyer beware, I’m only doing this in my 53 man roster 16 team dynasty league where we can start up to six linebackers, that’s the type of league where this makes sense, anything shallower I wouldn’t do it.

Trevon Moehrig (S) was in fact the other full time safety here along with Abram, 100% of snaps in week one with five combined tackles, the playing time is the part that strikes my fancy, the production will come eventually. Not a bad idea in deeper leagues if you need safety help.

Misc notes: KJ Wright (LB) only played 54% of snaps in week one, that will probably change at some point between injuries and the extended season but for now he’s only playable in very deep leagues and even then there are probably better options out there.

Trayvon Mullen (CB) and Casey Hayward Jr (CB) are the two streamable corners here currently, 100% and 99% of snaps respectively and the guys you want to stream if the matchup is correct. Everything else looks normal here, a lot of moving pieces with the linebacker corps but we got a nice surprise with the safety situation looking pretty straightforward. The defensive line will be a circus beyond Crosby who is in for a monster season. As someone in recovery myself I absolutely love his story, that guy is going to have an incredible season I can’t wait to see it. Congrats Mr. Crosby and good luck with everything in your life, one day at a time.


That’s it for week one. Thank you for reading, we’ll be back next Thursday for round two as we continue to try and figure out these defenses so we can be locked in for when it matters, fantasy playoffs. For now we just need to tread water and sneak into playoffs, once we’re in we’ll have the information we need to make the best decisions and lead to the best outcomes. Good luck in week two and have a nice football weekend.


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Johny The Greek

Non-delusional Cowboys Fan. Been playing Fantasy since 2003, IDP since 2004 and watching football for 35 years. Being a firm believer in "you should know if the person you're taking advice from actually knows or wins anything" I'd like to present exhibit A: I have a diamond rating in Yahoo (976) with 29 plus titles in redraft/dynasty across Yahoo, Sleeper, Fantrax and MFL and an additional 57 plus 2nd/3rd place in redraft/dynasty, same platforms. I also play in and have won several all-IDP leagues. I started playing FanDuel with a free entry and have won almost a grand since. I've also won many leagues on the draft app (RIP Draft App, we miss you) and play the maximum number of free college fantasy leagues on Yahoo every year as well with 3 titles and 9 trophies in just two years of playing before Yahoo discontinued those leagues. My profile includes multiple titles in survivor and pick em leagues as well. I was a finalist in the 2021/22 IDP Guys Invitational and the best ball tournament. Also a MFL & Sleeper best ball & eliminator degenerate with many titles there as well. I just started playing All-22 this season and I would bet the mortgage I'll be good at that too. (Update, I did fine, 9-5 first season and made playoffs). What does all that mean? Nothing except when I do something I tend to overdo it. I have been at this for a long time though so I'll help you with your IDP roster and questions however I can whenever I can. I write a weekly streaming IDP corners article (Johny The Greek's Cornerbacks Corner) and whatever I feel like in the offseason. You can find me @OrangeMan3142 on Twitter. Feel free to reach out for any questions or just to talk some football. Check out my articles on Friday mornings all season long. And new this season and going forward stick around for "Johny The Greek's Free Real Estate" where I interview the best and brightest from FF Twitter, and by that I mean the interesting people who actually help you win and not the useless engagement farmers. I am not an "analyst" I'm just a crazy person/degenerate who has been doing this a long time, has been pretty good at it and is dialed in because I have to be to not sound like an idiot writing all these articles and doing all these shows. My style is straightforward & conversational, IDP isn't complicated and you're not trying to win an argument on Twitter you're trying to win your league. Come join me weekly in season for Johny the Greek's Cornerbacks Corner, where we look at the fine art that is streaming corners or finding ways to maximize your production from your CB slots each week. Also in season check out the IDP Pros Podcast on SGPN network. I hope you enjoyed the article. Let us praise our Messiah Babu Frik and give worship to Baby Yoda. Jimmy G would make a fine husband. Thanks for reading. -Johny the Greek-
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